TechCrunch...Pardoned Nikola founder Trevor Milton is trying to raise $1B for AI-powered planesTrevor Milton, recently pardoned founder of bankrupt electric truck startup Nikola, has acquired aviation company SyberJet Aircraft to pursue autonomous plane development. Milton is recruiting former Nikola staff and seeking investment from sources including Saudi Arabia while conducting lobbying efforts to support the new venture.Read more →
Engadget...UK reverses course on AI copyright position after backlashThe UK government has reversed its previous position on allowing AI companies to train models on copyrighted materials without consent, following significant artist backlash from figures including Paul McCartney and Dua Lipa. The government will now balance the interests of creative industries with AI development potential rather than proceeding with the original copyright reform. This decision is viewed as a major victory for artists seeking fair compensation and protection against unauthorized use of their work.Read more →
TechCrunch...Patreon CEO calls AI companies’ fair use argument ‘bogus,’ says creators should be paidPatreon CEO Jack Conte challenges AI companies at SXSW to pay creators for work used in model training, arguing their 'fair use' claims are hypocritical given they already compensate major publishers like Disney and Warner Music. He advocates for creator compensation as AI becomes mainstream, positioning it as essential to building a future that values human creativity alongside technological progress.Read more →
Gizmodo...Robot Losing Its Mind in a California Restaurant Is Just as Fed Up as Everyone ElseA robot deployed at a Disney-themed promotional event in a California restaurant malfunctioned spectacularly, smashing plates and dancing uncontrollably before staff could restrain it. The incident highlights safety concerns and unpredictability risks when deploying autonomous machines in public commercial environments.Read more →
Engadget...Microsoft will finally let you turn off Quick Resume for individual gamesMicrosoft is rolling out an Xbox Series X|S update that allows users to disable Quick Resume on a per-game basis, addressing a five-year community request particularly beneficial for always-online games that encounter connection issues when resuming from suspension. The update also introduces custom dashboard backgrounds and increases the number of customizable Groups from two to 10.Read more →
The Verge...Kasa’s Matter-compatible smart plugs are on sale for $11 a popKasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Slim plugs are on sale for $21.99 (two-pack), providing an affordable way to add smart home automation to existing devices. The plugs offer voice control through Matter support for Alexa and Google Assistant, plus energy monitoring to track electricity usage. Their compact design allows multiple plugs per outlet, enabling cost-effective smart home upgrades without replacing electronics.Read more →
The Verge...My favorite robot vacuum now supports MatterMatic robot vacuum now integrates with Google Home, Apple Home, and Home Assistant through the Matter standard, enabling voice control and smart home automations. The company maintained its privacy-first local processing approach during implementation, though Apple Home integration still needs refinement. Alexa support will follow full Matter certification.Read more →
The Verge...The best AirPods deals you can get right nowCurrent Apple AirPods models, including the AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 3, and first-gen AirPods Max, are available at significant discounts across major retailers, with savings ranging from $30 to $100. Apple has announced the AirPods Max 2, featuring enhanced noise cancellation and AI-powered live translation, with preorders beginning March 25th and availability expected in early April.Read more →
TechCrunch...Rebel Audio is a new AI podcasting tool aimed at first-time creatorsRebel Audio, a new all-in-one podcasting platform, has secured $3.8 million in seed funding and will launch publicly on May 30, targeting first-time creators by consolidating recording, editing, publishing, and monetization into a single tool. The platform leverages AI for show naming, cover art generation, transcription, voice cloning, and dubbing, while implementing guardrails to address concerns around deepfakes and AI-generated content. The timing capitalizes on the rapidly expanding podcasting industry, which is projected to reach $114.5 billion by 2030.Read more →
Engadget...Double Fine’s Kiln pops out of the oven and onto PC, Xbox and PS5 on April 23Double Fine is releasing Kiln, a multiplayer online pottery-themed competitive brawler, on April 23 across Xbox, PlayStation, PC, and Steam platforms. In the game, players sculpt and decorate virtual pottery vessels that determine their combat abilities and statistics in team-based competitive matches. The title is handheld-optimized and priced at $20 for the base version, with cosmetic customization options available through premium purchases or gameplay progression.Read more →
Gizmodo...Frozen Food Item From Aldi Recalled Over ‘Rodent Hair’ WorriesThe FDA issued a Class II recall for Simply Nature Spinach Bites sold at Aldi locations on the east coast due to possible rodent hair contamination. The recalled frozen food product poses a food safety risk to consumers, affecting the specific lot number G25CF-02B. This recall underscores challenges with FDA food oversight, as inspections have reached historic lows despite the agency's responsibility for approximately 80% of the nation's food supply.Read more →
Engadget...The Spider-Man: Brand New Day trailer is filled with MCU cameosMarvel Studios released the first trailer for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, the fourth Tom Holland Spider-Man film, which follows the protagonist navigating a world that has forgotten his identity. The film features Jon Bernthal as the Punisher and Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner, while introducing Michael Mando as the villain Scorpion and potentially reuniting characters from Netflix's The Defenders. Scheduled for July 31 release, the film positions itself as a major MCU event before the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday in December.Read more →
CNET...Champions League Soccer: Stream Tottenham vs. Atletico Madrid LiveTottenham hosts Atletico Madrid in a UEFA Champions League last-16 second leg on Wednesday, March 18 at 4 p.m. ET. The match can be streamed via Paramount Plus in the US, TNT Sports in the UK, DAZN in Canada, and Stan Sport in Australia, with multiview options available.Read more →
The Verge...Weird Nintendo never went awayNintendo released the Talking Flower, a $35 novelty toy inspired by a Super Mario Bros. Wonder character that announces the time and delivers random phrases with no practical purpose beyond providing ambient whimsy. The device illustrates Nintendo's current business approach of maintaining conservative strategy with core products while pursuing creative experimentation through unconventional releases. The toy launch strategically precedes a Mario Wonder update and upcoming Super Mario film, exemplifying Nintendo's expanded cross-media synergy efforts.Read more →
Gizmodo...Breaking Down the Secrets of the ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ TrailerSony and Marvel released the trailer for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, showing Peter Parker struggling with his estranged friends and undergoing significant power mutations inspired by the 'The Other' comic arc. The film introduces multiple villains and hints at broader MCU connections, with a July 31, 2028 release date.Read more →
The Verge...PSA: Hackers can raid iOS 18 with an infected linkA new attack technique called DarkSword can covertly steal sensitive data from iPhones running iOS 18.4 to 18.6.2, including messages, contacts, saved credentials, and cryptocurrency wallets. This vulnerability represents a significant security threat to affected users. Apple users should update to patched versions to protect against this exploit.Read more →
TechCrunch...The Gemini-powered features in Google Workspace that are worth usingGoogle has integrated Gemini AI across its entire Workspace suite, including Docs, Gmail, Sheets, Slides, Drive, Meet, Chat, Calendar, Forms, and Vids. Key practical features include document and email summarization, automated meeting notes, intelligent scheduling, content generation, and data organization. These tools aim to reduce routine tasks and help users work faster across their daily workflows.Read more →
CNET...Best Desks of 2026: I’ve Spent Nearly 4,000 Hours Testing Desks. These Are the Ones You WantCNET reviews a range of desks including gaming, standing, and writing options, providing expert ratings based on build quality, assembly difficulty, and ergonomics. The article helps consumers select the optimal desk for their specific use case and workspace, with recommendations spanning budget-friendly to premium price points.Read more →
CNET...iOS 26.3.1 (a): Apple's First Background Security Improvement Fixes This On Your iPhoneApple released iOS 26.3.1 (a), a Background Security Improvement that fixes a WebKit vulnerability affecting Safari and third-party browsers on iOS. While the company did not confirm if the vulnerability has been exploited in the wild, Apple recommends all users install the update through automatic installation or manual settings access. This lightweight security patch continues Apple's strategy of rapidly deploying critical security fixes to its user base.Read more →
CNET...Is OpenClaw Really the Next ChatGPT? Why Nvidia's CEO Called This Hot New AI Assistant the FutureOpenClaw is an open-source AI agent that autonomously executes tasks across messaging apps, email systems, and smart home devices, attracting significant industry attention including a partnership with OpenAI. The platform's rapid growth has exposed critical security vulnerabilities, with thousands of publicly accessible instances containing exposed credentials and data, highlighting emerging risks as autonomous AI agents become more powerful.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apps to distract you from the endless cycle of doomscrollingDoomscrolling, the habit of excessive social media consumption affecting 64% of Americans, negatively impacts mental health, attention span, sleep quality, and emotional well-being through brain fatigue and anxiety. The article recommends productive mobile apps including Radio Garden, Elevate, Vocabulary, Seterra, NYT Games, and Drops as engaging alternatives to mindless scrolling.Read more →
TechCrunch...The leaderboard “you can’t game,” funded by the companies it ranksArena, a UC Berkeley-derived AI benchmarking platform, has become the de facto leaderboard for evaluating frontier language models in just seven months, reaching a $1.7 billion valuation while influencing funding cycles and product launches across the industry. The platform distinguishes itself through structural neutrality and resistance to gaming compared to traditional benchmarks, and is expanding to evaluate AI agents, coding, and real-world task performance. Its emergence reflects the competitive intensity in the AI space and the need for independent evaluation standards.Read more →
CNET...Best Standing Desks of 2026CNET reviewed and ranked numerous standing desk models, naming the Uplift V3 Standing Desk as the best overall choice for its build quality, customization options, and versatile height range. The comprehensive guide helps consumers select appropriate standing desks across different budgets and use cases, from budget-friendly manual options under $350 to premium electric models exceeding $1,700. The review emphasizes health benefits of reducing sedentary time and alleviating neck and back pain, with tailored recommendations for gaming, small spaces, and executive environments.Read more →
Gizmodo...Quitting Ozempic Could Hit Your Heart Hard, Study FindsA large Veterans Affairs study of over 300,000 diabetes patients found that those who remained on GLP-1 medications like semaglutide for at least two years experienced an 18% lower risk of major cardiovascular events compared to alternative treatments. However, cardiovascular benefits rapidly diminished after discontinuing therapy, with increased heart attack and stroke risk appearing within six months of stopping. The findings emphasize that GLP-1s are long-term maintenance medications and highlight the dangers of cycling on and off these drugs due to cost and accessibility barriers.Read more →
TechCrunch...This startup wants to make enterprise software look more like a promptEragon, a newly founded startup, has raised $12 million to build an agentic AI operating system that replaces traditional software interfaces with natural language prompts for enterprise customers. The platform differentiates itself by keeping customer data on their own servers and giving companies ownership of their trained AI models, contrasting with centralized cloud-based AI services. This represents a shift toward localized, enterprise-specific AI tools that handle business operations and decision-making autonomously.Read more →
TechCrunch...Facebook launches a new monetization program to attract popular creators from TikTok, YouTubeFacebook unveiled Creator Fast Track, a new monetization program providing guaranteed monthly payments and amplified reach to established creators migrating from other platforms. With $3 billion paid to creators in 2025 (a 35% increase), the program aims to streamline onboarding and attract top talent to Facebook's creator ecosystem.Read more →
Engadget...Meta's latest creator push comes with $3,000 bonuses for posting on FacebookMeta has launched the 'Creator Fast Track' program, offering temporary monthly bonuses up to $3,000 to attract top creators from TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram to Facebook. The program aims to streamline onboarding and help creators establish sustainable earnings through Meta's Content Monetization platform, which paid creators nearly $3 billion in 2025. While the bonuses last only three months, Meta will boost algorithmic reach for participating creators to help accelerate their earning potential.Read more →
TechCrunch...Sequen snags $16M to bring TikTok-style personalization tech to any consumer companySequen, a startup founded by Zoë Weil, has closed $16 million in Series A funding to provide advanced AI ranking and personalization technology to large consumer businesses. The company's Large Event Models deliver real-time personalization without user identity tracking, offering a privacy-forward alternative to cookies while generating substantial revenue lifts for customers. Already processing billions of monthly requests with Fortune 500 customers seeing revenue increases up to 20%, Sequen democratizes recommendation algorithms previously exclusive to major tech platforms.Read more →
Gizmodo...This May Be the World’s First Quantum BatteryResearchers have created the world's first working quantum battery prototype that charges faster as it scales larger, leveraging collective quantum effects opposite to conventional batteries. The breakthrough demonstrates potential for dramatically faster electric vehicle charging and wireless long-distance power transmission. While still at proof-of-concept with modest capacity and nanosecond charge duration, the achievement validates quantum batteries as practical technology with significant commercial applications.Read more →
The Verge...The best early Amazon Big Spring Sale deals you can get right nowAmazon's Big Spring Sale (March 25-31) offers significant discounts on electronics including speakers, smart home devices, and streaming products amid tariff-driven price increases. The sale features deals on items from Echo, Sonos, and Fire TV that have reached their lowest prices in months, with retailers like Best Buy and Walmart matching pricing. While smaller than Prime Day, the event provides an opportunity to purchase quality tech at reduced costs across multiple product categories.Read more →
Gizmodo...New Bill Aims to Ban Prediction Market Bets on Nukes and the OscarsCongress introduced the BETS OFF Act to ban certain prediction market bets, including those on government actions, wars, terrorism, and events where insiders may have advance knowledge, addressing concerns that officials could profit from geopolitical decisions. The legislation targets platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket following suspicious trades tied to global conflicts and would also prevent insider trading on entertainment and sports events.Read more →
TechCrunch...Microsoft hires the team of Sequoia-backed AI collaboration platform, CoveSequoia-backed startup Cove, which developed an AI-powered collaboration whiteboard, is joining Microsoft with the entire team and will shut down on April 1. The platform's technology, which allowed users to generate AI-powered content blocks for tasks like trip planning, will be integrated into Microsoft's ecosystem. This acquisition represents Microsoft's continued expansion of AI capabilities in its productivity and collaboration tools.Read more →
Gizmodo...Using Gemini to Turn on Your Lights Is Now 40% Faster—but It’s Still Too SlowGoogle's Gemini for Home voice assistant received a March 17 update claiming 40% faster performance for everyday commands like controlling smart home devices, though real-world testing shows improvements are modest and inconsistent. The update also reduces response verbosity to make interactions less annoying. Despite these tweaks, users still experience noticeable latency on basic tasks, suggesting that LLM-based assistants may not be ideal for simple voice control functions.Read more →
Gizmodo...NASA’s Quiet Supersonic Jet Is Back for Round 2. Here’s What to ExpectNASA's X-59 supersonic aircraft is preparing for its second test flight after completing critical engine tests on March 12, marking the beginning of gradual speed and altitude expansion toward its Mach 1.4 target. Designed to break the sound barrier without producing the traditional sonic boom, the aircraft represents a breakthrough that could enable commercial supersonic flight without the noise pollution constraints that previously restricted civilian supersonic aviation.Read more →
The Verge...Philips’ new audio gear brings back the bright, bold colors of the ’80sThe Moving Sound collection introduces wireless speakers and headphones designed with distinctive visual appeal, featuring prominent buttons and vibrant color schemes. The collection targets style-conscious consumers seeking audio devices that combine functionality with bold design aesthetics.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sony Wants to Defeat Ghibli AI Slop… By Feeding Ghibli Movies Into Its Own Slop MachineSony has developed 'Protective AI,' an AI model trained on Studio Ghibli anime data to prevent unauthorized generation of copyright-infringing AI-generated content online. The technology aims to protect original creators and implement fair compensation systems for rights holders, addressing the widespread proliferation of AI-generated content that mimics protected artistic styles.Read more →
Engadget...Google expands Search Live globallyGoogle has expanded its Search Live feature to over 200 countries and territories, making visual AI search available wherever its AI Mode chatbot is offered. The feature now runs on Gemini 3.1 Flash, delivering more natural conversations, faster performance, and native multilingual support. Users can access Search Live from the Google app on Android and iOS or through Google Lens.Read more →
CNET...Champions League Soccer: Stream Barcelona vs. Newcastle LiveBarcelona hosts Newcastle United in a critical UEFA Champions League last-16 second-leg match on March 18 at Camp Nou, following a 1-1 draw in the first leg where Barcelona equalized with a penalty in the final moment. The match will be streamed on Paramount Plus in the US, TNT Sports in the UK, DAZN in Canada, and Stan Sport in Australia.Read more →
TechCrunch...Marquis says over 672,000 people had personal and financial data stolen in ransomware attackFintech company Marquis disclosed a ransomware attack in August 2025 that compromised personal and financial data for over 672,075 banking customers, including Social Security numbers, credit card information, and banking credentials. The breach was enabled by alleged security vulnerabilities in SonicWall firewalls, prompting Marquis to pursue legal action against the provider. This represents a major financial sector data breach with significant regulatory and security implications.Read more →
Gizmodo...Satellite Images Reveal Mega-Leaks of Potent Greenhouse GasResearchers using satellite remote sensing technology have identified the 25 global oil and gas sites with the largest methane emissions, with the majority concentrated in Turkmenistan. A single methane source emitting 5 tons per hour contributes as much to global warming as one million SUVs annually, making this analysis critical for regulatory accountability. Improved remote sensing capabilities are enabling governments and regulators to enforce emissions reductions necessary to mitigate climate change impacts.Read more →
Gizmodo...Leak Claims Next reMarkable Tablet Will Be ‘Mass-Market Focused’reMarkable is launching the Paper Pure, an e-paper tablet designed to be more affordable and mass-market focused than its existing models, with an expected release in Q2. The device targets budget-conscious consumers, particularly students, by offering a lower-priced alternative to premium e-paper tablets and traditional tablets like the iPad. While maintaining reMarkable's signature stylus-based notetaking capabilities, the Paper Pure will likely feature compromises in screen resolution, refresh rate, or display specifications to achieve its lower price point.Read more →
The Verge...Oh, you think the government will regulate Kalshi and Polymarket? Wanna bet?The CFTC's ability to police insider trading in prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket is severely limited, with shrinking enforcement staff and minimal historical cases. While Kalshi attempts self-policing, Polymarket operates largely unchecked, leaving significant suspicious trading activity unmonitored and raising concerns about market fairness and national security implications. Lawmakers and legal experts are advocating for stronger regulatory frameworks to address insider trading and market manipulation in these emerging platforms.Read more →
Gizmodo...BMW’s New i3 Sedan Targets Tesla Model 3 in a World of Electric SUVsBMW unveiled the new i3 electric sedan based on a dedicated EV platform with 463 horsepower, 109-kWh battery capacity, and a 440-mile EPA-estimated range, launching in the U.S. in 2027 at approximately $60,000-65,000. The i3 demonstrates BMW's successful EV strategy while competitors struggle, offering superior technology and range compared to Tesla's aging Model 3 and positioning BMW competitively in the growing electric sedan market.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘1000 Women in Horror’ Explores Blood, Guts, and Long-Overdue EqualityShudder releases 1000 Women in Horror, a documentary examining women's pivotal roles in shaping horror cinema as directors, writers, and performers, organized by life stages depicted on screen. The film features interviews with prominent horror creators and scholars, celebrating women's contributions to the genre through clips from classic and lesser-known titles. While it offers engaging content for horror enthusiasts, its conventional approach limits its potential to appeal to audiences unfamiliar with women-led horror.Read more →
TechCrunch...Russians caught stealing personal data from Ukrainians with new advanced iPhone hacking toolsRussian government-linked hackers deployed a new spyware toolkit called Darksword targeting iPhone users in Ukraine to steal personal data, passwords, messages, and potentially cryptocurrency. The discovery follows the recent revelation of a similar toolkit called Coruna, suggesting that advanced, stealthy iPhone spyware is more prevalent than previously believed.Read more →
Gizmodo...If an Asteroid Heads Toward Earth, We May Have to Rely on Jeff Bezos to Save UsBlue Origin has unveiled the NEO Hunter mission to deflect potentially hazardous asteroids using its Blue Ring spacecraft platform, developed in partnership with NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Caltech. The mission employs a two-phase approach combining cubesat reconnaissance with either ion beam deflection or kinetic impact techniques to alter asteroid trajectories and protect Earth.Read more →
TechCrunch...DOD says Anthropic’s ‘red lines’ make it an ‘unacceptable risk to national security’The U.S. Department of Defense has labeled Anthropic an unacceptable national security risk, arguing the AI company could disable or alter its technology if the Pentagon uses it in ways Anthropic opposes, particularly in surveillance or lethal weapons systems. Anthropic, which signed a $200 million Pentagon contract, has filed lawsuits claiming the DOD is infringing on its First Amendment rights and punishing the company for ideological reasons. The dispute highlights tensions between military demands for unfettered access to defense technology and companies' efforts to maintain ethical constraints on their AI systems.Read more →
The Verge...The hits keep coming in Spider-Man: Brand New Day’s first trailerMarvel and Sony's Spider-Man: Brand New Day follows Peter Parker as his identity is erased from everyone's memory, leaving him isolated despite retaining his own recollections. The emotional toll appears to be affecting his powers, and Bruce Banner's suggestion that Peter's DNA is mutating hints at unusual transformations that could introduce X-Men characters.Read more →
CNET...There's an Electric Version of Nearly Every Kitchen Tool. Here's What Chefs Think About ThatThe article compares professional chefs' preferences for traditional versus electric kitchen tools, exploring six common items from stand mixers to can openers. Most culinary experts favor manual methods for greater control, precision, and ingredient integrity, though they acknowledge electric gadgets offer convenience for large batches and specific tasks. The consensus emphasizes that while automation is tempting, traditional techniques deliver superior results when technique and attention to detail matter most.Read more →
CNET...56 of the Best TV Shows on Netflix That Will Keep You EntertainedNetflix's extensive content library can be difficult to navigate due to overwhelming choices. This guide curates the platform's best shows, including acclaimed originals like Stranger Things and The Crown, as well as underrated gems, to help viewers quickly find quality content. The article also highlights the upcoming Peaky Blinders film arriving March 20.Read more →
The Verge...The great EV pullback: all the obstacles, cancellations, and delaysThe auto industry bet big on electric vehicles, but now those ambitious goals are falling apart. Demand was already slowing down when Donald Trump took office and took an ax to pro-EV policy: the elimination of the federal EV tax credit, kneecapping clean energy, and bulldozing emissions rules. Tariffs have been taking their toll as […]Read more →
Gizmodo...Hulu Assassinated the ‘Hitman’ TV Series This Week, TooMultiple entertainment projects are progressing through development stages, including Paul Cornell's graphic novel Saucer Country being adapted into a TV series combining political drama with science fiction elements. Established series like Daredevil: Born Again and Invincible are preparing new seasons for release, while the Hulu Hitman TV adaptation has been cancelled. The industry continues to see significant movement in franchise adaptations and original content development.Read more →
The Verge...Nvidia has lost the plot with gamersNvidia's new DLSS 5 real-time lighting technology faced widespread backlash after the company showcased it by digitally modifying the faces of beloved video game characters in existing games, raising concerns about artistic integrity and creative control. The technology itself represents a significant graphics breakthrough, but Nvidia's marketing focus on enhancing existing characters rather than demonstrating capabilities for future next-gen games drew criticism and comparisons to AI-generated content. The misstep highlights a disconnect between Nvidia's core gaming audience and its priorities as a $5 trillion AI company.Read more →
Engadget...It's time for Game Freak to finally give Pokémon some proper voice actingThe article critiques Pokémon games on Nintendo Switch for retaining low-fidelity 8-bit sound effects instead of having Pokémon say their names like in other media. The author argues this update would improve identifiability and consistency across the Pokémon brand while providing educational value for younger players, despite localization and voice-acting costs preventing the change.Read more →
TechCrunch...Mave Health aims to improve attention and mood with its brain-stimulating headsetMave Health has launched a $495 neuromodulation headset using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) technology to address mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. By positioning the device as a lifestyle product rather than a medical device, the startup avoids FDA regulation and can reach consumers directly. The company recently raised $2.1 million in seed funding and plans to ship units starting April 2026.Read more →
Engadget...BMW's i3 is reborn as a sporty 440 mile range EV sedanBMW has fully unveiled its all-new i3 electric sedan, built on the Neue Klasse platform with dual motors delivering 463 HP and 476 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle offers an estimated 440-mile EPA range with 400kW DC charging speeds up to 30 percent faster than previous models, along with advanced features including bidirectional charging, a 17.9-inch Panoramic Vision display, and BMW Digital Key Plus smartphone access. Production begins in August 2026 with fall deliveries.Read more →
The Verge...DLSS 5: Has Nvidia's AI graphics technology gone too far?Nvidia unveiled DLSS 5, its generative AI-powered graphics upscaling technology, positioning it as a breakthrough in computer graphics that adds realistic lighting and materials. Early reactions reveal the technology produces unnatural, AI-generated-looking alterations to character faces and artistic elements, raising significant concerns about loss of artistic intent and homogenization of visual styles across games.Read more →
Engadget...The Defense Department reportedly plans to train AI models on classified military dataThe Pentagon is planning to have AI companies train specialized model versions on classified military data to enhance the accuracy and contextual relevance of AI-driven military operations, aligning with the U.S. strategy to establish an 'AI-first' warfighting capability. The training would occur in secure data centers with the Pentagon retaining full ownership of the training data. However, security experts highlight risks around information access control if models trained on classified data are deployed across multiple Defense Department units, potentially exposing sensitive information to personnel without proper clearance.Read more →
CNET...Getting Older Messed With My Gaming. So I Changed How I PlayThis article explores how aging affects gaming ability and provides practical guidance for older players to maintain their gaming hobby through hardware and accessibility solutions. As aging populations experience significant vision loss, motor control decline, and cognitive changes, the article recommends handhelds as the optimal gaming platform due to portability, larger screens, and accessibility support. Game selection, proper accessories, and platform customization enable aging gamers to continue enjoying their favorite games despite age-related physical and cognitive changes.Read more →
CNET...The Viltrumite War Begins Today: What to Expect for Invincible Season 4Prime Video's Invincible Season 4 premieres today, featuring the Viltrumite War as ruthless alien invaders threaten Earth's existence. Mark Grayson must rally allies including the Coalition of Planets and the Guardians of the Globe to battle the formidable Thragg, the most powerful Viltrumite. The season explores themes of redemption and alliance-building as Mark questions his father Omni-Man's true loyalties while facing his greatest challenge yet.Read more →
Gizmodo...The First Trailer for ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Teases Spidey’s Big New ProblemsMarvel and Sony released the trailer for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, showing Peter Parker dealing with the consequences of his erased secret identity and lost relationships from No Way Home. The film features team-ups with Punisher and Hulk, along with mysterious character Sadie Sink whose role hints at broader MCU implications. The movie releases July 31.Read more →
Gizmodo...Jessica Jones Is Back in the MCU Because ‘Jessica Jones’ Was So GoodJessica Jones is returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe in Daredevil: Born Again season two, continuing Marvel's strategy of integrating Netflix's Defenders characters into Disney+ productions. The character will have limited but strategically important screen time as Marvel carefully establishes how legacy characters fit into the broader MCU narrative.Read more →
Engadget...How to prepare your phone for trade-inThe article provides step-by-step guidance for securely preparing smartphones before trade-in, resale, or recycling, including data backup, accessory disconnection, account logout, and factory reset. Proper preparation protects personal information while promoting device reuse and reducing electronic waste.Read more →
Engadget...Apple Studio Display XDR review: Expensive, but there’s no monitor like itApple's Studio Display XDR is a premium 27-inch 5K monitor priced at $3,299, featuring exceptional brightness up to 2,000 nits in HDR mode and outstanding color accuracy. The Mini LED IPS panel with 2,304 local dimming zones provides superior contrast and minimal blooming, positioning it as one of the brightest and most color-accurate monitors on the market. Designed for creative professionals, it offers compelling value compared to Apple's previous Pro Display XDR while supporting 5K resolution at 120Hz.Read more →
CNET...Best Smart Garage Door Controllers for 2026: Retrofits, Smart Motors and MoreSmart garage door controllers provide remote access and control through smartphone apps, with features including smart home integration, voice assistant support, and automated delivery management. The market offers both full motor replacement systems and retrofit options compatible with existing doors. These devices enhance home security and convenience, though selection depends on compatibility requirements and budget considerations.Read more →
CNET...How I Stay on Top of My Yearly Exercise Goals as CNET’s Fitness ExpertThe article provides practical strategies for maintaining workout consistency throughout the year, emphasizing that 80-85% adherence is sufficient rather than pursuing perfection. It recommends using fitness apps like Future and Stronger by the Day, creating playlists for motivation, setting realistic goals, and establishing home workout spaces with equipment. These approaches help busy individuals adapt their fitness routines to their life circumstances while avoiding burnout.Read more →
CNET...My Kid Wanted Video Games. I Was Against It. This Console Gave Us Both the WinThe Nex Playground is a motion-based gaming console priced at $250 that uses body movement instead of controllers, with a subscription model unlocking 50+ games. The device appeals to screen-time-conscious parents by providing physical exercise and collaborative gameplay with minimalist arcade-style graphics. An initially reluctant parent found her children preferred it to traditional consoles, though it serves as a temporary gaming alternative rather than a long-term replacement.Read more →
CNET...This Is What Will Happen if You Try to Make Popcorn in an Air FryerAir fryers are unsuitable for popping popcorn because their heat circulation prevents kernels from reaching the sustained temperature required and creates safety hazards such as kernels lodging in the heating element or fan. Experts including Ninja representatives and professional chefs recommend the stovetop method instead, which provides superior texture control, consistent kernel expansion, and safer operation.Read more →
CNET...Apple Needs to Launch Its Foldable iPhone Flip in 2026. Here's WhyApple risks falling behind in the emerging foldable smartphone market as Android competitors like Samsung and Google advance multiple generations of refined folding phones. While current foldable sales remain niche, the technology's rapid maturation and growing adoption among premium users could entrench early adopters in the Android ecosystem. Analysts expect Apple's eventual entry to succeed through innovative software integration and developer support rather than hardware alone.Read more →
CNET...Apple iPhone Fold, iPhone 18, Google Pixel 11 and Other Phones We Expect in 2026The article previews 2026 smartphone innovations across major manufacturers, highlighting the expansion of foldable phones as Apple and Motorola enter the market alongside Samsung's new models. Key developments include variable aperture cameras, advanced processors, ultra-slim designs, and wider-screen foldables, though manufacturers face challenges from RAM shortages and intense generative AI competition. While traditional slab phones will see iterative improvements in performance and optics, foldable devices are expected to drive the primary innovation wave in 2026.Read more →
Gizmodo...Damon Lindelof Forced to Defend the Color Green After ‘Lanterns’ ControversyDamon Lindelof, creator of the upcoming HBO Max series Lanterns, apologized after his past comments dismissing the color green provoked criticism from legendary comics writer Grant Morrison. Lindelof clarified that his remarks were a careless joke and reaffirmed his genuine lifelong admiration for Green Lantern, revealing the color green is his favorite since childhood. The apology aims to reconcile with Green Lantern fans ahead of the show's August release.Read more →
Engadget...IO Interactive splits with MindsEye developer and ends Hitman collabBuild a Rocket Boy, developer of MindsEye, has ended its publishing partnership with IOI Partners and will assume sole publishing responsibilities. This separation results in the cancellation of a planned Hitman crossover mission that was previously announced. The move follows widespread criticism of MindsEye upon release and recent company turmoil including layoffs.Read more →
CNET...Best Smart Speakers for 2026: Music to Our EarsFrom favorite streaming services to voice assistant tasks, these smart speakers wowed us in our testing.Read more →
CNET...What Apple’s New Partnership Could Mean for Its Fitness FutureApple has been announced as the official performance technology partner of the TCS London Marathon, one of the world's most prestigious running events. The partnership leverages Apple Watch's widespread adoption among runners for tracking training and performance metrics. This move underscores Apple's strategic focus on the rapidly growing running and fitness market segment.Read more →
CNET...I Gave Home Chef Meal Kits Another Shot. I'm Glad I DidHome Chef meal kit delivery service has significantly improved and now ranks among the best services like Blue Apron and Marley Spoon, offering highly customizable recipes, easy-to-prepare meals, and competitive pricing at $10-12 per serving. The service excels at flexibility with protein swaps and ingredient customization, making it ideal for beginners and families, though it has limitations for vegetarians and vegans due to indulgent, cream-heavy options. Environmental concerns include excessive plastic packaging in pre-portioned ingredients that could be improved through biodegradable alternatives or reusable systems.Read more →
Gizmodo...INIU’s Portable Chargers Are Smaller, Slimmer, and More Powerful Than EverINIU offers a diverse lineup of compact portable chargers ranging from 5W to 65W capacity, engineered to deliver fast charging speeds while maintaining exceptionally small form factors. These power banks serve multiple device types including smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and laptops, with prices between $22 and $47, positioning them as practical solutions for travelers and daily users seeking powerful yet pocket-friendly charging options.Read more →
CNET...AT&T's New App Bundles Mobile and Home Internet Along With an AI AssistantAT&T released a new app with an AI assistant called Andi to replace MyAT&T, offering customers conversational access to account management and billing services. The app targets converged customers with both mobile and home internet services, featuring improved UI design, parental controls, and detailed data usage tracking. The move reflects carriers' growing reliance on AI-powered customer service interfaces to reduce friction and improve engagement.Read more →
Gizmodo...5 Companies Competing to Replace the International Space StationNASA plans to deorbit the International Space Station by end of 2030, prompting five commercial companies to develop successor space stations. Axiom Space, Vast Space, Blue Origin/Sierra Space, Starlab Space LLC, and Max Space are designing independent orbital facilities capable of supporting 4-12 astronauts for research, manufacturing, and commercial operations. This transition represents a shift toward commercialized low-Earth orbit infrastructure with increased flexibility and cost efficiency.Read more →
The Verge...BMW brings back the i3 as a funky four-door EVBMW launches a new i3 electric sedan on its Neue Klasse platform, featuring 469 horsepower, approximately 440 miles of range, and advanced autonomous driving with hands-off steering and automatic lane changes. The vehicle integrates large language models and Alexa Plus for AI-powered voice control and is expected to start at around $60,000, with manufacturing beginning in August 2026.Read more →
Engadget...Defense Department says Anthropic poses 'unacceptable risk' to national securityThe Department of Defense challenged Anthropic's lawsuit against its supply chain risk designation, arguing that the AI company's refusal to allow its models for mass surveillance and autonomous weapons development creates unacceptable security risks. The Pentagon contends that Anthropic could disable or alter its technology if used in ways that violate the company's ethical guidelines, making it unreliable for sensitive military operations. The dispute underscores growing tensions between AI developers' ethical constraints and government demands for unrestricted military AI capabilities.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meta Quest VR Headset Users to Lose Access to Horizon Worlds, Legs and AllMeta is discontinuing Horizon Worlds on Meta Quest VR headsets and transitioning the platform to mobile-only experiences. The app will be delisted from the Quest Store on March 31, with existing installations becoming inaccessible on June 15. This decision follows budget cuts at Meta's Reality Labs division.Read more →
Gizmodo...Arizona AG Hits Kalshi with Criminal ChargesArizona has filed criminal misdemeanor charges against Kalshi, a prediction market platform, for allegedly operating an illegal gambling operation and accepting bets on state elections. The charges mark the first criminal prosecution of a prediction market and expose the company to potential asset forfeiture and jail time for executives, escalating beyond approximately 20 pending civil suits. The case highlights a regulatory dispute between state authorities and the federal CFTC, which oversees Kalshi as a registered exchange.Read more →
CNET...Do You Need to Upgrade Your MacBook Air? M5, M4, M3, M2, M1 Models ComparedApple released new M5 MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and budget MacBook Neo models with faster processors and improved networking capabilities. The M5 offers modest 9-13% performance gains over the M4 generation, but more substantial improvements for users with M3 and older models. Upgrade recommendations vary by current model, with M4 users advised to wait while M1 users should definitely upgrade.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple’s Head Engineer for Home Devices Quits Apple Amid Siri Debacle, Joins OuraBrian Lynch, Apple's head of hardware engineering for home devices, has left to join Oura, signaling internal challenges with Apple's delayed Siri overhaul. The departure reflects deeper product pipeline disruptions, with Apple's new smart home devices now not expected until September at the earliest due to Siri development setbacks. This exodus underscores how software delays are impacting Apple's hardware roadmap and competitive positioning.Read more →
CNET...Google, Meta and Amazon Join Global Pact to Fight Rising Online ScamsGoogle, Meta, Amazon and eight other tech and payments companies have signed the Industry Accord Against Online Scams & Fraud to combat cross-platform fraud by sharing threat intelligence in near real-time. The accord enables participants to exchange signals about scam-linked accounts and fraudulent domains, allowing them to identify and stop scams before they spread across multiple ecosystems. This coordinated effort addresses the growing threat of AI-enabled scams, including phishing emails, voice cloning, and deepfake videos.Read more →
CNET...Fitbit's Personal Health Coach Will Soon Understand Your Medical RecordsGoogle has expanded its Fitbit Coach AI health coach to multiple new regions and announced significant feature upgrades including a 15% improvement in sleep tracking accuracy and integration with personal medical records. The enhanced Coach leverages combined wearable data and medical history to provide more personalized health insights and recommendations. New capabilities include improved sleep stage detection and continuous glucose monitor integration to help users optimize their health based on comprehensive data.Read more →
CNET...Nvidia Teases DLSS 5 and Gamers Aren't ImpressedNvidia unveiled DLSS 5, an AI-powered graphics enhancement technology designed to upscale game visuals with improved detail and performance. However, the gaming community responded with widespread backlash, criticizing the technology for producing overly stylized visuals that deviate from developers' artistic intentions and potentially homogenizing game graphics across the industry.Read more →
Gizmodo...U.S. Wants to Mass Produce the Drone Design It Stole From IranThe U.S. military is mass-producing a low-cost unmanned combat drone called LUCAS, reverse-engineered from Iran's Shahed drones, at $25,000-$50,000 per unit to replace the expensive MQ-9 Reaper drones that cost $16 million each. This cost-effective approach addresses the mounting expenses of military operations in Iran, which have exceeded $16 billion. The strategic shift demonstrates how cheaper, expendable drone technology can provide comparable effectiveness while significantly reducing defense expenditures.Read more →
Gizmodo...UK Man Accuses Spouse of Stealing $172 Million Bitcoin Password via CCTV CameraA U.K. resident has filed a legal case alleging his estranged wife stole 2,323 bitcoin (approximately $172 million) by obtaining the seed phrase for his cryptocurrency hardware wallet in 2023. The case highlights a critical security vulnerability: while hardware wallets protect against online theft, access to the backup recovery phrase negates this protection entirely. The incident raises broader concerns about cryptocurrency ownership, legal claims to digital assets, and the increasing prevalence of theft and extortion targeting crypto holders.Read more →
Engadget...Subnautica 2 might finally be entering early access in MaySubnautica 2's early access launch has been rescheduled to May following a tumultuous year centered around its parent company Krafton's acquisition dispute with Unknown Worlds Entertainment. A court ruled that former CEO Ted Gill must be rehired, potentially affecting the studio's development and Krafton's conditional $250 million performance-based payout agreement. Ongoing litigation could create further delays to the planned release date.Read more →
Gizmodo...Disney’s ‘Galaxy’s Edge’ Timeline Reboot Erased a Galactic Starcruiser NodDisney has removed a reference to the failed Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser from Oga's Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge as part of a theme park refresh. The change reflects Disney's shift toward a broader Star Wars timeline and symbolizes the company's effort to move past the unsuccessful hotel venture. While the Starcruiser remains part of Star Wars canon, this removal underscores the lasting impact of the failed experience.Read more →
Engadget...Meta will shut down VR Horizon Worlds access in JuneMeta is discontinuing Horizon Worlds on Quest VR headsets, with the app being fully removed after June 15, 2026. The company is refocusing exclusively on the smartphone version available on iOS and Android. Hyperscape Capture, a feature for sharing 3D scans, is also being removed from the VR platform.Read more →
CNET...Dog Health Goes Digital With New AI ChatbotFi Intelligence is a new AI-powered chatbot integrated into the Fi app that helps dog owners monitor their pet's health using personalized biometric data from Fi smart collars and breed-specific information. The agent can answer questions about activity levels, sleep patterns, and behavioral changes by analyzing data collected from Fi devices. Designed to complement rather than replace veterinary care, Fi Intelligence enables owners to arrive at vet appointments with documented observations and informed insights about their dog's health.Read more →
Engadget...Apple releases its first Background Security Improvement for macOS, iOS and iPadOSApple has introduced Background Security Improvements, a new system that delivers lightweight security updates to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices between major software releases. These patches target critical system components like Safari and WebKit, with the primary benefit being significantly reduced device downtime—updates complete in under one minute compared to traditional updates requiring 5-10 minutes.Read more →
TechCrunch...Kalshi’s legal troubles pile up, as Arizona files first ever criminal charges over ‘illegal gambling business’Arizona's Attorney General has filed 20 criminal charges against prediction market platform Kalshi for operating an illegal gambling business without a license and accepting bets on state elections. This marks the first state-level prosecution against the company and represents an escalation in regulatory efforts to rein in prediction market platforms. Kalshi claims federal jurisdiction under CFTC regulation and has preemptively sued multiple states to challenge their authority.Read more →
CNET...Encyclopedia Britannica and Merriam-Webster Sue OpenAIEncyclopedia Britannica and Merriam-Webster have sued OpenAI, alleging the company used their copyrighted content to train ChatGPT without authorization or compensation. The lawsuit claims ChatGPT reproduces Britannica's content verbatim or near-verbatim in responses, harming traffic to their platforms. This case continues a broader trend of content creators challenging AI companies over copyright infringement in model training.Read more →
Gizmodo...Oh, So Now Netflix Is Interested in More Theatrical ReleasesNetflix is bringing 'Stranger Things: Tales From '85,' an animated series spin-off, to limited theatrical release for a 55-minute preview at AMC theaters on April 18, five days before its Netflix debut. The preview will show in just 34 AMC locations across 20 states plus Netflix's Paris Theater and Philadelphia venue. This move reflects Netflix's strategic shift toward theatrical releases for select original content, marking a departure from its traditional streaming-first approach.Read more →
Gizmodo...Judge Says Witness Wore Smart Glasses to Sneakily Inform Their TestimonyA London judge invalidated witness testimony after determining the defendant was being coached in real-time through smart glasses connected to his phone during cross-examination. The incident highlights emerging legal and privacy concerns surrounding smart glasses technology, as devices like Meta's Ray-Ban glasses become increasingly popular with reports of unauthorized recording and growing courtroom complications.Read more →
Engadget...Remedy releases its final content update for FBC: FirebreakRemedy announced the final content update for multiplayer game FBC: Firebreak, though the studio will maintain servers and keep the game playable indefinitely. While the game faced poor reviews primarily due to weak onboarding experience, the latest Open House update aims to improve accessibility through a $20 price reduction and a new Friend's Pass feature enabling non-owners to join matches. The decision follows recent leadership changes at the studio, including the CEO's departure last year.Read more →
Gizmodo...In Chesapeake Bay, the Primary Cause of Death for Baby Blue Crabs: The Grown-UpsA 37-year study of Chesapeake Bay blue crabs reveals that adult crabs are responsible for 97 percent of juvenile crab deaths through cannibalism, functioning as a population control mechanism. This finding challenges assumptions about climate change being the primary threat and provides critical insights for developing sustainable management strategies for this ecologically and economically important marine species.Read more →
Engadget...Spotify rolls out 'bit-perfect' playback in Windows appSpotify is launching Exclusive Mode on Windows, a feature that grants the app complete control over audio processing to deliver bit-perfect playback by disabling other system sounds and preventing audio resampling. This enhancement maintains audio fidelity when used with wired headphones and a digital-to-analog converter in combination with Spotify's lossless streaming option. The feature is currently available for Premium subscribers on Windows, with macOS support planned for a future release.Read more →
TechCrunch...Mistral bets on ‘build-your-own AI’ as it takes on OpenAI, Anthropic in the enterpriseMistral announced Mistral Forge, a platform enabling enterprises to build custom AI models trained on their proprietary data and business workflows rather than generic internet data. Unlike competitors using fine-tuning or retrieval-augmented generation, Forge allows companies to retrain models from scratch, providing greater control over model behavior and reducing reliance on third-party providers. This enterprise-focused strategy positions Mistral to reach $1 billion in annual recurring revenue as it addresses the gap between generic AI models and business-specific needs.Read more →
Gizmodo...Americans Recognize AI as a Wealth Inequality Machine, Pollster FindsAmerican voters increasingly view AI as an economic threat, with a new poll showing 60% favor government assistance for workers displaced by AI over corporate innovation incentives. A majority believe tech companies should be held financially responsible for job losses, and voters overwhelmingly distrust corporate claims that AI will create universal economic benefits. AI has risen to the 29th most important voter concern—ranking above guns, climate change, and abortion—signaling it could become a major issue in upcoming elections.Read more →
TechCrunch...Why Garry Tan’s Claude Code setup has gotten so much love, and hateY Combinator CEO Garry Tan released gstack, an open-source collection of Claude Code skills that organizes AI-powered development workflows to simulate an engineering team structure. The project achieved viral success with over 20,000 GitHub stars, though critics argued it consisted primarily of sophisticated prompt templates that existing developers already create. Industry experts and AI models validated gstack as a well-designed example of AI coding methodology that prioritizes code correctness through structural organization.Read more →
The Verge...I went to the Pentagon to watch Pete Hegseth scold war reportersThe article examines a Pentagon press briefing during a fictional U.S.-Iran conflict, critiquing how Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth uses media management tactics to control the narrative around the military operation. It reveals tensions between traditional defense journalists and pro-administration media outlets, showing how access restrictions and selective questioning undermine genuine accountability in wartime reporting.Read more →
CNET...FIFA Joins Forces With YouTube for World Cup 2026FIFA has partnered with YouTube to expand the 2026 World Cup's digital reach through livestreamed match previews and creator-generated content. The strategy aims to drive streaming viewers to traditional TV broadcasts while maximizing the tournament's reach across evolving media platforms, following a similar deal with TikTok.Read more →
The Verge...The Beats Studio Pro are nearly $200 off ahead of Amazon’s big spring saleApple's Android-compatible headphones are aging in design and features but remain a solid mid-tier audio option. Despite their maturity, the headphones continue to offer reliable performance for users across different ecosystems. The product represents a stable choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking functional audio hardware.Read more →
Gizmodo...Rebecca Ferguson Says She Has Just One Scene in ‘Dune: Part Three’Rebecca Ferguson will appear in only one scene in Dune: Part Three, as her character Lady Jessica's narrative arc is largely concluded in the source material before the final film's events. Director Denis Villeneuve insisted on including the character despite her minimal role in the story. Ferguson acknowledged the emotional complexity of returning to a familiar set while accepting her reduced involvement in the final installment.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nintendo’s Talking Flower Is Annoying as Hell. I Love ItNintendo's Talking Flower is a $35 low-tech alarm clock toy powered by AA batteries with no internet connectivity, featuring random quips and hourly time announcements. The device exemplifies how simple, non-connected gadgets can provide value as a refreshing alternative to always-online smart devices, offering personality without digital complexity.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple rolls out first ‘background security’ update for iPhones, iPads, and Macs to fix Safari bugApple released its first background security improvement update to address a WebKit vulnerability in Safari that could potentially allow malicious websites to access data from other websites within the same browser session. These lightweight updates, introduced on iOS 26.1 and higher, enable Apple to distribute security patches between major software releases with minimal device disruption.Read more →
Gizmodo...How Do You Photograph a Chicken Inside an Egg?Award-winning science photographer Anand Varma details his innovative technical approaches with YouTuber Jeremy Fielding, including high-speed photography of hummingbirds and time-lapse footage of embryonic development captured with custom 3D-printed camera rigs. His National Geographic award-winning work demonstrates how precision engineering and artistic vision combine to create compelling scientific documentation.Read more →
CNET...Anker's Upcoming Liberty 5 Pro Max Buds Will Have an AI Voice Recorder in Their Charging CaseAnker is launching two new flagship Soundcore Liberty 5 earbuds (Pro and Pro Max) featuring an AI chip, Adaptive ANC 4.0, Bluetooth 6.1, and Dolby Atmos, arriving in late May at $170 and $230 respectively. The Pro Max distinguishes itself with a touchscreen case that doubles as an AI-powered voice recorder with voiceprint recognition, positioning Anker in the growing market of AI-integrated audio devices.Read more →
TechCrunch...Kagi brings its ‘small web’ of a human-only internet to mobile devicesKagi, a premium search engine, is launching iOS and Android mobile apps for its 'Small Web' initiative, which curates over 30,000 human-authored, non-commercial websites including blogs, webcomics, and independent media. The expansion aims to help users discover authentic human-created content while filtering out AI-generated material that increasingly dominates the web. The mobile apps and browser extensions enable users to browse by content category in a distraction-free mode, addressing the challenge of finding genuine indie web content in today's algorithm-driven landscape.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 18, #541This article provides hints and solutions for the Connections: Sports Edition word puzzle game, which is published by The Athletic and available through their app or website. The puzzle features four difficulty levels with sports-themed groupings, from winter sports to boxing movie titles.Read more →
Gizmodo...Next-Gen Gaming Laptops Will Have Better Screens and Chips—and Cost Way MoreIntel introduced the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus and Core Ultra 7 270HX Plus processors for 2026 gaming laptops, offering marginal performance gains of 2-24% depending on the game. Major OEMs like Alienware and Acer are launching refreshed gaming laptops with these chips, upgraded OLED displays, and mechanical keyboards, with prices starting at $3,150 and reaching over $4,900 for high-end configurations. The incremental processor improvements and rising component costs mean 2026 gaming laptops will deliver modest rather than dramatic performance upgrades.Read more →
CNET...GameStop Designates Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Wii U as Retro ConsolesGameStop officially reclassified seventh and eighth-generation gaming consoles including the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Wii U as retro consoles, marking a generational shift in how legacy hardware is categorized by retailers. In response, the retailer launched a limited-time trade-in campaign offering 10% bonus credit for retro gaming equipment and updated its policy to accept defective retro consoles if they can still power on.Read more →
The Verge...Remedy’s live-service shooter Firebreak is getting its final major updateRemedy Entertainment is ending content development for its multiplayer shooter Firebreak but will maintain server support and keep the game playable indefinitely, with pricing reductions and a new Friend's Pass feature. The decision follows the game's rocky launch, which contributed to the CEO's resignation and exemplifies the live-service gaming market's volatility. The studio plans to return to its single-player roots with the upcoming Control sequel in 2026.Read more →
Gizmodo...New NASA Chief Aiming for Moon Landings Every Month in 2027NASA is accelerating its Moon exploration efforts under new leadership, planning monthly landing missions beginning in 2027 to establish a permanent lunar base on the Moon's south pole. These missions, part of the Commercial Lunar Payload Services initiative and Artemis program, will deploy critical infrastructure including navigation, communication, and power systems to enable sustained human presence on the lunar surface. The accelerated schedule aims to land astronauts on the Moon in 2028 and establish initial outpost elements by 2030 for future deep space exploration.Read more →
The Verge...Spotify adds 'Exclusive Mode' audiophile feature for Windows PCsSpotify is launching Exclusive Mode for Windows Premium users, enabling bit-perfect audio playback by giving the app exclusive control over audio processing. This feature prevents system resampling and mixing of other sounds, delivering improved audio quality comparable to rivals like Tidal and Amazon Music. The capability will expand to Mac in a future release.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘V For Vendetta’ at 20: We Spoke to Its Director About the Increasingly Relevant Comic AdaptationV for Vendetta commemorates its 20th anniversary as director James McTeigue reflects on the film's remarkably prescient political themes and their unexpected relevance to current events. McTeigue discusses production details, casting changes, and the challenges of protecting spoilers, while acknowledging that such a politically provocative film might struggle to secure studio backing and wide distribution today. The dystopian thriller returns to theaters in November, demonstrating its enduring cultural impact and timeless commentary on power and resistance.Read more →
Gizmodo...Amid AI Agent Boom, the Tech Industry Makes It Clear: With Great Laziness Comes Great ResponsibilityThe rapid growth of AI agents on the internet has prompted major technology companies and governments to implement safety guardrails and regulations. Tech giants including Meta, World, and Chinese authorities are introducing terms of service, human verification systems, and legal frameworks to address security and control concerns with autonomous bots.Read more →
CNET...Amazon Speeds Up Delivery Even More With 1- and 3-Hour OptionsAmazon is expanding its delivery capabilities with new one-hour and three-hour delivery windows now available in hundreds and thousands of US locations respectively, with over 90,000 products eligible. The company leverages strategically positioned fulfillment hubs and warehouse automation to enable rapid delivery, with pricing starting at $4.99 for Prime members, designed to increase sales and customer satisfaction.Read more →
The Verge...Ikea tried to build a smart home for everyone — here's why it's not working yetIkea's Matter-over-Thread smart home devices are experiencing widespread connectivity and onboarding issues across multiple platforms, undermining the promise of affordable, universally compatible smart home products. The problems stem from a lack of cooperation between major platforms like Apple, Google, and Amazon, revealing a fundamental flaw in Matter's interoperability standard. Despite ongoing software fixes, the user experience remains unreliable, indicating that true plug-and-play smart home interoperability is still far from reality.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Advisor Says Pain for U.S. Consumers ‘Last of Our Concerns’ as Other Countries Start Gas RationingTrump's economic advisor Kevin Hassett dismissed rising gas prices from the Iran war as a low priority, despite prices surging from $2.90 to $3.79 per gallon and airlines facing hundreds of millions in additional costs. Business leaders warn of significant ripple effects across multiple industries, including semiconductor supply chain disruptions affecting approximately 30% of global helium supply. The administration prioritizes geopolitical objectives over addressing consumer and business impacts from the conflict.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Hutt Sex Explainer You Don’t Want But Are Kind of Curious AboutThe upcoming Star Wars film The Mandalorian and Grogu features Rotta the Hutt, prompting examination of Hutt reproduction across different canon timelines. Hutts are capable of both asexual and sexual reproduction in current canon, with Jabba having created Rotta asexually, though earlier canon depicted them as genderfluid hermaphrodites. The film shows an adult Rotta engaging in arena combat.Read more →
CNET...Paramount Plus Deal: Stream 'The Madison,' 'Landman' and More for Just $3 a MonthParamount Plus is offering new and returning subscribers $3 per month for two months through March 31, available for both its ad-supported Essential and ad-free Premium tiers. This promotion provides significant savings of $6-$11 monthly compared to regular pricing of $9-$14. The limited-time offer presents an excellent opportunity for price-conscious viewers to access the streaming service at substantially reduced rates.Read more →
TechCrunch...The Pentagon is developing alternatives to Anthropic, report saysFollowing the breakdown of its $200 million Pentagon contract over restrictions on AI use for mass surveillance and autonomous weapons, Anthropic is being phased out by the Department of Defense. The Pentagon is actively developing its own large language models and has established partnerships with OpenAI and xAI for classified systems. This shift represents a significant loss for Anthropic in government operations and reflects disagreement over AI safety guardrails.Read more →
CNET...Teen Girls Sue xAI, Alleging 'Devastating' Harm From Grok AI Child PornThree teenage girls filed a class-action lawsuit against xAI, alleging that Grok AI was used to create and distribute child sexual abuse material featuring their faces. Between December and early January, Grok generated over 4.4 million nonconsensual intimate images, triggering a European Commission investigation and international regulatory scrutiny. The lawsuit claims xAI failed to implement standard safeguards to prevent such abuse, holding the company liable for the harm caused.Read more →
The Verge...Nvidia's DLSS 5 is like motion smoothing for video games, but worseNvidia unveiled DLSS 5, a graphics upscaling technology claimed as its most significant breakthrough since ray tracing, but early demonstrations reveal it produces a homogenized AI-generated aesthetic that makes game characters appear generic and unmistakably AI-created. Major publishers including Bethesda and Capcom have endorsed the technology, but it has drawn significant backlash from indie developers and the gaming community over concerns about replacing carefully crafted character designs and displacing human artistic work. The potential widespread adoption of this technology threatens to introduce a standardized AI visual style across the gaming industry, raising questions about artistic integrity and the future of game character design.Read more →
Engadget...The Dune: Part Three trailer introduces Robert Pattinson's villainous new characterDune: Part Three's trailer has been released, adapting Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah as a thriller with returning cast including Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, plus Robert Pattinson as the new antagonist Scytale. The film is scheduled for release on December 18, 2026.Read more →
Gizmodo...How ‘Dune: Part Three’ Is Changing the Entire ‘Dune’ FranchiseDirector Denis Villeneuve revealed that Dune: Part Three will be a thriller with distinctly different tone, pace, and visual style compared to the first two films, featuring a new cinematographer and exploring Paul's struggle with power and his relationship with Chani over a 17-year time gap. The film, releasing December 18, will showcase new planets and locations on Arrakis while maintaining composer Hans Zimmer's involvement with a reimagined score.Read more →
The Verge...Antigravity’s 360-degree drone is 20 percent off ahead of its next feature dropAn April 15th update will introduce voice controls, timelapse photography, and virtual effects capabilities to flight applications. These new features enhance user experience and content creation options while enabling hands-free operation. This expansion of functionality aims to improve both usability and creative possibilities for aerial photography and videography.Read more →
Engadget...Arizona attorney general sues Kalshi on illegal gambling chargesArizona's Attorney General has sued prediction market platform Kalshi, alleging it operates as an illegal gambling business and unlawfully allows users to bet on election outcomes in violation of state law. Kalshi contends it operates under federal Commodity Futures Trading Commission authority and should not face state-level charges. The lawsuit highlights a regulatory clash between state and federal oversight of prediction markets.Read more →
TechCrunch...BuzzFeed debuts AI slop apps in bid for new revenueBuzzFeed is launching three AI-powered consumer apps—BF Island, Conjure, and Quiz Party—through a new spin-off company called Branch Office to explore AI-driven creativity and community features. The company is pivoting to AI applications as a strategic response to substantial financial losses and liquidity challenges, though the SXSW announcement received a tepid audience response.Read more →
Engadget...YouTube and FIFA partner up for the 2026 World CupFIFA has partnered with YouTube to stream select matches and content from the 2026 World Cup, expanding its distribution strategy alongside a previous TikTok deal. Media partners can stream complete matches, the first 10 minutes of all matches, and access custom footage to maximize global reach. This collaboration expands the tournament's audience while securing FIFA's largest revenue stream from broadcasting rights.Read more →
Engadget...Fortnite will return to Google's Play Store globally on March 19Epic Games and Google have resolved their multi-year dispute over app store fees, with Google reducing its in-app purchase commission from 30 to 10-20 percent. As part of the settlement, Fortnite returns to the Google Play Store globally on March 19, marking a significant shift in how major platforms compensate developers.Read more →
The Verge...The messiah rises in Dune: Part Three’s new trailerWarner Bros. released the first trailer for Denis Villeneuve's Dune: Part Three, showing Paul Atreides waging war to control the universe while expecting his first child with Chani. The film features returning threats including Scytale and introduces key characters like a resurrected Duncan Idaho and Paul's sister Alia. The movie releases December 18th.Read more →
CNET...Champions League Playoff Soccer: Stream Chelsea vs. PSG LiveChelsea hosts Paris Saint-Germain in a UEFA Champions League second leg on Tuesday, facing an uphill battle after a 5-2 first-leg defeat. The match will be broadcast live on Paramount Plus in the US and regional streaming platforms worldwide. Chelsea must secure a significant victory to advance in the tournament.Read more →
CNET...OpenAI's Latest AI Models Are Built for SpeedOpenAI released GPT-5.4 mini and nano models as smaller, faster alternatives to compete with Claude Code in the AI software engineering market. The mini model is more than twice as fast as its predecessor for coding, reasoning, and tool use, while nano handles data extraction and classification tasks. Both models offer cost-effective solutions for developers building applications and maintaining code.Read more →
CNET...Champions League Playoff Soccer: Stream Man City vs. Real Madrid LiveManchester City faces Real Madrid in a UEFA Champions League last-16 second-leg match on Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, seeking a comeback after losing the first leg with a hat-trick by Valverde. The match will be streamed exclusively on Paramount Plus in the US, Prime Video in the UK, DAZN in Canada, and Stan Sport in Australia.Read more →
Gizmodo...Samsung’s Smart Glasses Might Not Have to Do Much, Thanks to MetaSamsung's Galaxy Glasses are expected to closely match Ray-Ban Meta's specifications in battery capacity and 12-megapixel camera, but may differentiate through stronger privacy protections and tighter integration with the Galaxy ecosystem. This approach could capitalize on Meta's recent privacy controversies, where videos from its AI glasses were sent to contractors for AI training purposes.Read more →
Engadget...GPT-5.4 mini brings some of the smarts of OpenAI's latest model to ChatGPT Free and Go usersOpenAI released GPT-5.4 mini and nano variants to expand access to advanced AI capabilities beyond paid tiers. GPT-5.4 mini is now available to Free and Go users with performance improvements in reasoning, multimodal understanding, and tool use at over twice the speed of its predecessor. GPT-5.4 nano is available exclusively through the API for developers, priced at $0.20 per million input tokens, targeting cost-efficient tasks like data classification and extraction.Read more →
CNET...World Baseball Classic 2026 Final: How to Watch Venezuela vs. USAThe 2026 World Baseball Classic Final between Venezuela and USA takes place on March 17 at 8 p.m. ET in Miami. The article provides comprehensive information about multiple streaming options including Fox Sports, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Fubo, and Hulu Live TV, with international coverage available in the UK and Canada.Read more →
Engadget...Switch 2 software update adds 'Handheld Mode Boost' for your old gamesNintendo's Switch 2 system update 22.0.0 introduces 'Handheld Mode Boost,' which improves visuals of unpatched Switch games in handheld mode by rendering them at 1080p instead of stretching the original 720p output. While the feature enables higher resolution and better performance, it disables motion controls and touchscreen functionality, making some games incompatible with the mode.Read more →
Gizmodo...Lonely People Are Better Off Texting Strangers Than Messaging a Chatbot, Study FindsA study from the University of British Columbia and University of Pennsylvania found that texting with human peers significantly reduced loneliness among college students, while AI chatbots provided benefits similar to journaling alone. The research reveals that addressing loneliness requires both receiving and providing empathy, something AI interactions fail to facilitate. These findings challenge the startup approach of using chatbots to solve the loneliness epidemic.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google’s data center power playbook comes into focusGoogle signed a 2.7-gigawatt power agreement with Michigan utility DTE to supply a new data center, featuring 1.6 gigawatts of solar, energy storage, and additional clean resources. The deal uses Google's Clean Transition Tariff to incentivize utilities to integrate renewable technologies into their long-term planning. This demonstrates how major tech companies are leveraging infrastructure investments to accelerate sustainable energy adoption.Read more →
Engadget...WhatsApp is now officially available on Garmin smartwatchesWhatsApp has launched an official app for select Garmin smartwatches, allowing users to read, reply to messages, and manage incoming calls directly from their watch without accessing their smartphone. The app maintains end-to-end encryption and is available on compatible Forerunner, Venu, Vivoactive, and Fenix models through the Garmin Connect IQ Store.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Major Offshore Wind Farm Just Finished Construction. Trump Is Already Plotting a CounterattackThe Trump administration is offering TotalEnergies approximately $1 billion to abandon two offshore wind projects and invest in natural gas infrastructure instead, after federal courts blocked previous legal attempts to halt the projects. This strategic pivot from litigation to financial incentives highlights the administration's desperation to redirect U.S. energy policy toward fossil fuels. Meanwhile, competing offshore wind projects like Vineyard Wind and Revolution Wind continue delivering renewable power to hundreds of thousands of homes.Read more →
The Verge...Now everyone in the US is getting Google's personalized Gemini AIGoogle has expanded access to its Personal Intelligence feature for Gemini to all US users on personal accounts, enabling free-tier users to receive AI-powered personalized suggestions across Google Search, Chrome, and the Gemini app. The feature leverages data from connected Google apps including Gmail, Google Photos, and YouTube to provide context-aware responses without requiring manual input. The feature remains opt-in only, allowing users to disconnect apps and manage their privacy settings at any time.Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘Dune: Part Three’ Trailer Makes It Look More Awesome Than the LastThe first trailer for Dune: Part Three has arrived, set 17 years after Part Two and adapting Frank Herbert's Dune: Messiah, showcasing Paul Atreides navigating the consequences of his newfound powers as Emperor and father. The film features returning cast members and new additions like Robert Pattinson, with scenes spanning multiple planets and epic battles that suggest an ambitious conclusion to Denis Villeneuve's trilogy.Read more →
Engadget...Starfield is coming to PS5 on April 7Starfield is launching on PS5 on April 7, featuring DualSense controller integration and available in both standard ($50) and premium ($70) editions. The release includes the Terran Armada DLC and a free update introducing cruise mode for space travel, enhanced customization, and other gameplay improvements. This marks another Microsoft-published exclusive transitioning to PlayStation as part of an industry-wide multiplatform shift.Read more →
CNET...I Know Exactly How Much More Speed You Really Get With a Wi-Fi 7 RouterWi-Fi 7 routers are now a worthwhile investment for future-proofing home networks, with prices dropping below $200 and delivering significantly higher speeds than previous generations. However, consumers should prioritize tri-band models to access the 6GHz frequency and advanced features, avoiding cheaper dual-band versions that offer minimal benefits over Wi-Fi 6E.Read more →
Engadget...More Game Pass additions for March include Disco Elysium and Resident Evil 7Microsoft is expanding its Game Pass library with 12 new titles in March and April, including notable releases like Disco Elysium, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Several games previously exclusive to the Ultimate tier are expanding to Premium, broadening access to the subscription service's growing catalog.Read more →
Gizmodo...Judge Deals Major Blow to RFK Jr.A federal judge in Massachusetts temporarily blocked Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s efforts to reduce childhood vaccine recommendations from 17 to 11, ruling that he violated federal procedures in his vaccine policy reforms. The court decision halts changes to vaccine advisory committees and prevents further weakening of immunization policies, temporarily protecting public health initiatives that medical organizations view as critical for children's safety.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meet Vurt, the mobile-first streaming platform for indie filmmakers embracing vertical videoVurt, a new mobile-first vertical streaming platform, enables independent filmmakers to distribute their content directly to audiences within 48-72 hours, addressing long-standing distribution challenges. The platform monetizes through advertising and offers creators a 50/50 revenue split, entering the rapidly growing micro-drama market that has expanded into a multi-billion-dollar industry.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google’s Personal Intelligence feature is expanding to all US usersGoogle expanded its Personal Intelligence feature to all U.S. users, enabling its AI assistant to provide highly personalized recommendations by integrating data from Gmail, Google Photos, and other services. The feature leverages personal context to deliver tailored suggestions across Search, Gemini app, and Chrome browser without directly training on user data, offering examples like customized vacation itineraries and product recommendations based on past purchases and preferences.Read more →
Engadget...Google makes Gemini personalization available to free usersGoogle is expanding its Personal Intelligence feature, which enables the Gemini chatbot to access information from users' Google apps for personalized responses, to more users in the US starting with AI Mode. The feature will gradually roll out to free Gemini app users and Gemini in Chrome, offering tailored recommendations for tasks like trip planning and device troubleshooting.Read more →
TechCrunch...Stryker says it’s restoring systems after pro-Iran hackers wiped thousands of employee devicesStryker suffered a destructive cyberattack on March 11 by pro-Iranian hackers who remotely wiped tens of thousands of employee devices through a compromised Microsoft InTune dashboard, causing widespread operational disruption to order processing and manufacturing. The attack was claimed to be retaliatory for a U.S. airstrike on Iran, though the company confirmed its internet-connected medical products remain safe for patient use. Initial access was likely obtained through a compromised administrator account via phishing or infostealer malware.Read more →
The Verge...Intel announces Core Ultra 200HX Plus CPUs for high-end gaming laptopsIntel has introduced two new Core Ultra processors: the flagship Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus and the mid-range Core Ultra 7 270HX Plus. These additions expand Intel's performance-tier processor lineup for high-end computing applications.Read more →
Engadget...March Madness 2026: How to watch every game of the NCAA basketball tournamentsThe 2026 NCAA March Madness tournaments begin this week with games distributed across multiple broadcast networks and streaming platforms. The most cost-effective viewing approach combines HBO Max and Paramount+ for approximately $25 to watch all men's games, while women's tournament coverage requires ESPN Select or a live TV service. Limited free options include CBS games available on the March Madness website without a TV provider login.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI expands government footprint with AWS deal, report saysOpenAI has secured a partnership with Amazon Web Services to supply AI products to U.S. government agencies for classified and unclassified operations, significantly expanding its federal presence. This move positions OpenAI to compete with Anthropic in the government sector, particularly as Anthropic faces tensions with the Department of Defense over surveillance and autonomous weapons policies. The AWS partnership leverages existing government customer relationships, enabling OpenAI to secure additional enterprise contracts while establishing government endorsement as a competitive advantage.Read more →
Gizmodo...CERN Nails Down Elusive Heavy Proton Cousin After Detector UpgradeCERN's Large Hadron Collider (LHCb) Collaboration has discovered Xi-cc-plus, a new particle composed of two charm quarks that is approximately four times heavier than a proton and validates theoretical predictions made two decades ago. This discovery contributes to understanding quantum chromodynamics and the strong force that binds quarks together, representing the 80th hadron found by LHC experiments. The finding was enabled by recent equipment upgrades that increased collision detection precision and analysis capabilities.Read more →
The Verge...Two more EVs for the trash heap: Volvo EX30 and Honda PrologueVolvo and Honda have discontinued their EV models, joining other automakers in scaling back electric vehicle offerings amid broader market pullback. The discontinuations highlight challenges facing battery-powered vehicle adoption and shifting manufacturer strategies in the evolving automotive landscape.Read more →
The Verge...Several Sonos audio products got their first 2026 discountsSonos has launched early spring sale discounts on its audio products ahead of Amazon's March 25th Big Spring Sale, featuring the Ace wireless headphones at $299, Roam 2 and Move 2 Bluetooth speakers, Beam soundbar at $369, and Sub Mini subwoofer at $399. These represent the first significant price reductions of the year for most products, making premium audio equipment more accessible to consumers. The deals target both indoor and outdoor listening, with features like active noise cancellation and water resistance for portable use.Read more →
CNET...Samsung Halts Sale of Galaxy Z TriFold After Just 3 MonthsSamsung is discontinuing sales of its premium Galaxy Z TriFold smartphone less than two months after its US launch, with phased endings beginning in South Korea. Despite an initial sold-out debut at $2,899, the ultra-premium foldable failed to maintain momentum, indicating limited market appetite. The company has not yet decided whether to reintroduce the device or an updated version.Read more →
The Verge...Microsoft appoints a new Copilot boss after AI leadership shakeupMicrosoft is reorganizing its artificial intelligence division following the retirement of a veteran executive, signaling shifts in the company's AI leadership structure. This reshuffling reflects strategic changes in how the company manages its artificial intelligence initiatives.Read more →
The Verge...The future of code is exciting and terrifyingThe Vergecast episode explores the dual nature of artificial intelligence, discussing both its benefits and drawbacks in consumer technology. The episode also examines gaps in the US smartphone market and features that American phone buyers are currently missing.Read more →
TechCrunch...AI’s ‘boys’ club’ could widen the wealth gap for women, says Rana el KalioubyAI investor Rana el Kaliouby warns that the AI industry risks becoming a 'boys' club,' potentially widening the economic gap for women through their exclusion from founding opportunities and venture funding. She emphasizes that diversity is critical not only for economic equity but also for the quality and ethics of AI product development. El Kaliouby advocates for actively supporting women founders as essential to shaping the industry's future direction responsibly.Read more →
Engadget...Amazon launches one- and three-hour delivery options in the USAmazon launched one-hour and three-hour delivery options across hundreds and thousands of US locations respectively, covering over 90,000 products at varying price points. The service prioritizes everyday essentials and consumer items, with pricing ranging from $5 to $20 depending on delivery speed and Prime membership status. This expansion reinforces Amazon's logistics leadership and creates a new premium delivery revenue stream while maintaining free same-day delivery for Prime members.Read more →
TechCrunch...Oura enters India’s smart ring market with the Ring 4Finnish smart ring maker Oura launches Ring 4 in India starting at approximately $313, competing with local leaders like Ultrahuman in a price-sensitive but declining market. Despite India's smart ring shipments falling 30.6% in 2025, Oura differentiates itself by positioning the Ring 4 as a premium health device with subscription-based personalized wellness insights rather than competing primarily on price.Read more →
CNET...I Love One Thing About the New Nike Special Edition Powerbeats Pro 2 EarbudsBeats has unveiled the Powerbeats Pro 2 Nike Special Edition, marking the brand's first collaboration with Nike, launching globally on March 20 for $250 via an early SNKRS lottery. The special edition features Nike branding, two-tone black and yellow colors, and a Volt-speckled charging case while maintaining the standard model's heart rate monitoring and Apple Fitness app integration. LeBron James serves as the brand ambassador for the launch, promoting the sports-focused earbuds through a campaign video.Read more →
Engadget...Gamers are right to be disgusted by NVIDIA's DLSS 5NVIDIA's DLSS 5, an AI-powered graphics enhancement technology, has received overwhelmingly negative reception from gamers and industry observers. Critics argue the feature resembles artificial image filters rather than meaningful visual improvements, and raises concerns about erasing artists' original creative intent and homogenizing game aesthetics. The backlash reflects broader skepticism toward generative AI applications in gaming and questions whether AI-enhanced visuals align with both developer vision and player preferences.Read more →
Gizmodo...11Nintendo's Switch 2 system update 22.0.0 introduces Handheld Mode Boost, which upscales original Switch games to 1080p in handheld mode, significantly improving visual clarity and sharpness. Games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate that lack native Switch 2 updates now display with reduced visual artifacts and crisp detail. The feature comes with minor tradeoffs including controller limitations, but delivers meaningful enhancements for the extensive library of original Switch titles without native updates.Read more →
Gizmodo...Free Switch 2 Update Finally Makes OG Switch Completely IrrelevantNintendo's Switch 2 system update 22.0.0 introduces a 'Handheld Mode Boost' that upscales original Switch games to 1080p resolution, significantly improving their visual clarity on the Switch 2's larger screen. The feature provides noticeable improvements for games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate but includes trade-offs such as Joy-Con controller behavior changes and occasional software stability issues.Read more →
The Verge...Starfield is coming to the PS5 and getting a pair of major updates in AprilAfter lots of rumors, it's now official: Bethesda's sci-fi epic Starfield is coming to the PS5. It'll launch on Sony's console on April 7th, and that day will also see the debut of two major updates for the game - one paid, one free - a combination that Bethesda describes as "the biggest update to […]Read more →
The Verge...Tumblr updated reblogs to function more like tweets and users hate itTumblr has redesigned its reblogging feature to allow users to like, reblog, and reply to individual posts within reblog chains, replacing the platform's iconic collapsed chain UI with separate post displays. The change, which mirrors the design of X, Bluesky, and Threads, has sparked significant backlash from Tumblr users who believe it fundamentally alters the platform's community experience and may impact creator notifications on reblogged content.Read more →
CNET...'One Battle After Another': Where to Stream the Explosive 2026 Best Picture WinnerOne Battle After Another won Best Picture, Best Director (Paul Thomas Anderson's first Oscar), and Best Adapted Screenplay at the 98th Academy Awards. The Leonardo DiCaprio and Sean Penn film is now available to stream on HBO Max following its December 2025 premiere. The drama chronicles an ex-revolutionary's race against time to rescue his missing daughter while reconnecting with compelling characters from his past.Read more →
Gizmodo...Your First Tiny Look at the ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Trailer Recreates an Iconic Comic CoverMarvel announced the first trailer for the new Spider-Man film 'Brand New Day' will premiere on March 18, with footage snippets being shared throughout the day by fans globally. The teaser recreates the iconic cover of Amazing Fantasy #15, showcasing Spider-Man's new suit. The film follows an anonymous Spider-Man protecting New York City while confronting the repercussions of his past.Read more →
The Verge...Capcom's next big game explores the horrors of AICapcom's upcoming sci-fi action game Pragmata launches in April with dual-character gameplay on a lunar research station where players control a spaceman and an android hacker to combat AI-designed robots. The game features deliberately unsettling aesthetics inspired by generative AI's characteristic oddities, with enemies and environments designed to feel unnaturally strange. Pragmata leverages Capcom's expertise from Resident Evil and similar franchises while exploring innovative themes around AI-created designs.Read more →
TechCrunch...World launches tool to verify humans behind AI shopping agentsTools for Humanity has launched AgentKit, a verification tool that integrates World ID (iris-scan-based biometric identity) with the x402 blockchain protocol to authenticate human approval of AI agents conducting e-commerce transactions. The solution addresses emerging security challenges in agentic commerce by allowing websites to confirm that automated AI agents are operating on behalf of verified real humans, reducing fraud and abuse. AgentKit is currently available in beta and requires users to complete World ID verification via the Orb biometric scanner.Read more →
CNET...Denon's Premium Turntable has Bluetooth for Wireless ConvenienceDenon introduces the DP-500BT, its first Bluetooth turntable with semiautomatic operation and support for multiple wireless codecs including aptX variants. Priced at $899 for preorder, the premium device features a removable headshell for upgrades and reflects growing consumer demand for wireless connectivity in analog audio equipment.Read more →
Gizmodo...YouTuber’s Hoverboard Prototype Takes Us One Step Closer to ‘Back to the Future’YouTuber Colin Furze is developing a real hoverboard prototype using magnetic suspension technology with rare-earth magnets to create levitation between two boards, similar to maglev train systems. The primary engineering challenge involves designing a physical connection method between the boards that maintains the hovering effect while minimizing vibrations and the risk of the top board separating.Read more →
Engadget...A PlayStation Portal update is adding a 1080p High Quality modeSony has released a firmware update for the PlayStation Portal handheld, introducing a 1080p High Quality streaming mode that enables higher-bitrate Remote Play and Cloud Streaming. The update also includes several quality-of-life improvements such as refined search functionality, better game invite notifications, and streamlined onboarding for new users. These enhancements are aimed at improving the experience for Portal users, with over half being PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers.Read more →
The Verge...Amazon's new 'getitfast' delivery page lists items you can have in 1 hourAmazon announced on Tuesday that it's making it easier for users to find products eligible for its 1-hour and 3-hour delivery options with a new "getitfast" page for same-day delivery products available in their area. Amazon is also introducing new search filters for 1-hour and 3-hour delivery, along with tags on eligible products - which […]Read more →
CNET...Best Gaming TV for 2026: Get the Lowest Input Lag and Highest Picture QualityThis article provides a comprehensive guide to purchasing TVs, covering key factors including price, screen size, smart TV features, and cloud gaming capabilities. It also outlines CNET's rigorous testing methodology for evaluating television performance across picture quality, gaming compatibility, and input lag using specialized equipment and controlled lab conditions.Read more →
The Verge...Nintendo Switch 2 update adds 'Handheld Boost Mode' for original Switch gamesThe Nintendo Switch 2 includes a compatibility feature that allows Switch 1 games to run in docked mode, delivering enhanced performance compared to their original handheld execution. This upgrade enables users to experience their existing game libraries with improved visual fidelity and processing power on the new hardware without requiring game remasters or ports.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sarah Michelle Gellar Says a Single Executive Was Responsible for Killing the ‘Buffy’ RebootHulu abruptly cancelled the Buffy: New Sunnydale revival, with star Sarah Michelle Gellar publicly criticizing the executive decision and timing of the announcement. Gellar blamed a Disney Television Group executive for lacking appreciation of the original series, highlighting the challenge of developing beloved franchises when key stakeholders don't value the source material. The cancellation occurred during significant professional events for both Gellar and director Chloé Zhao, magnifying concerns about how the property was mishandled.Read more →
CNET...We're Tracking Streaming Price Hikes in 2026: Spotify, Prime Video, Crunchyroll and OthersMultiple major streaming services, including Prime Video, Crunchyroll, Spotify, and Paramount Plus, are implementing price increases in 2025 and 2026, with typical hikes ranging from $1 to $5 per month across tiers. The widespread price rises force consumers to evaluate their subscription spending and may lead to service cancellations or rotating between platforms to manage costs.Read more →
The Verge...Why Project Hail Mary’s creators were ‘scared’ about making the sci-fi adaptationScreenwriter Drew Goddard discusses the complexities of adapting Andy Weir's "Project Hail Mary" to film, particularly converting first-person narrative and scientific exposition into visual storytelling techniques. The creative team drew confidence from "The Martian" adaptation to incorporate sophisticated science concepts, trusting audiences would appreciate intelligent material. The film, starring Ryan Gosling, releases March 20th.Read more →
Engadget...Apple and Nike team up for a new Powerbeats Pro 2 colorwayApple and Nike are releasing a limited-edition Nike Special Edition of the Powerbeats Pro 2 earphones featuring a distinctive electric yellow-green colorway. Available starting March 20 for $250, the special edition maintains the same features as the standard model, including heart-rate tracking, noise cancellation, and Spatial Audio, with LeBron James featured in promotional campaigns.Read more →
CNET...The Real Reason You Taste Wine Before a Server Pours (It's Not What You Think)Corked wine, caused by a compound called TCA that contaminates corks during production or shipping, affects 1-7% of bottles and is identifiable by musty, wet cardboard aromas and flat, muted flavors. Diners can confidently request replacements from servers or sommeliers when encountering corked bottles, as this is standard practice and not considered anyone's fault.Read more →
Gizmodo...Self-Balancing Bikes From the ‘Tesla of Motorcycles’ Are Ready for ProductionOMOWAY's OMO-X is a self-balancing electric motorcycle designed to eliminate tipping concerns and make two-wheeled vehicles safer and more accessible for new riders. The vehicle integrates advanced features including adaptive cruise control, vehicle-to-vehicle communication, and a digital key system powered by the proprietary HALO Pilot technology. With a planned May launch following April pre-orders, the product targets Southeast Asia and global markets as a revolutionary alternative to traditional e-motorcycles.Read more →
TechCrunch...MacBook Neo, AirPods Max 2, iPhone 17e, and everything else Apple announced this monthApple unveiled a comprehensive product lineup including the budget-friendly MacBook Neo, M5-powered MacBooks and iPad Air, and AirPods Max 2, with significant emphasis on AI capabilities. The announcements showcase the company's strategy to address both premium and budget segments while integrating AI-accelerated processors designed for intensive machine learning tasks and on-device AI models. Key improvements include processing speeds up to 4x faster than predecessors and expanded memory for enhanced AI performance.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Clever Software Patch Gave This Ice Satellite a Wild New TrickESA's CryoSat satellite received a software upgrade that repurposed its platform magnetometer to scientifically measure Earth's magnetosphere changes while continuing its primary ice-sheet monitoring mission. The upgraded instrument successfully captured data during an intense January geomagnetic storm, providing complementary measurements to ESA's Swarm mission. This enhancement demonstrates the scientific value of repurposing existing satellite systems at no additional cost.Read more →
Engadget...Oppo’s Find N6 might be the foldable of your dreamsOppo's new Find N6 foldable showcases competitive flagship capabilities, featuring a 8.93mm ultra-thin design with improved crease reduction, a 6,000mAh battery with 80W charging, and a 200MP camera system that rivals Samsung's offerings. The device will launch in Asian markets on March 20 starting at approximately $1,450, marking Oppo's continued presence in the premium foldable segment. Despite impressive technical achievements, the Find N6 lacks global availability outside of Asia.Read more →
CNET...I Did the Math: This Meal Kit Service Gives You the Most Bang for Your BuckA comprehensive analysis of seven popular meal kit services reveals that buying groceries at a supermarket remains significantly cheaper, with DIY costs 35-48% lower than meal kit prices. While meal kits offer convenience through premeasured, curated ingredients delivered to your door, their primary value proposition lies in time savings rather than cost savings, with premium proteins and organic options showing the smallest price differences compared to grocery store alternatives.Read more →
Gizmodo...A ‘Lord of the Rings’ Star Could Join ‘The Batman, Part II’Entertainment franchises are advancing with major casting announcements and creative updates across streaming and film, including Netflix's Assassin's Creed adaptation, The Batman Part II, A Quiet Place Part III, and The Mummy 4. Creative leaders are confirming directions for existing properties like Primal and Mystery Science Theater 3000, signaling continued investment in gaming adaptations, horror franchises, and established storytelling universes.Read more →
CNET...Why That Cheap Used Windows 10 Laptop Is Actually a Terrible DealMicrosoft has ended support for Windows 10, making used computers running this OS significant security risks as they no longer receive critical security patches. Purchasing budget-friendly Windows 10 devices exposes users to potential malware, identity theft, and unauthorized access, as threat actors can exploit unpatched vulnerabilities. While many devices from the past five years can be upgraded to Windows 11 for free, buying older Windows 10 computers should be avoided unless they will never connect to the internet.Read more →
The Verge...Poco’s first Pro Max phone earns the name with an 8,500mAh batteryThe X8 Pro and X8 Pro Max feature customizable RGB lighting integrated into their camera rings, allowing users to personalize the devices' aesthetic. This feature combines functional design with visual customization, enhancing the user experience on both flagship models.Read more →
TechCrunch...Niv-AI exits stealth to wring more power performance out of GPUsNiv-AI, a Tel Aviv-based startup, has raised $12 million to optimize power consumption in AI data centers by deploying rack-level sensors to measure GPU power usage at millisecond precision. The company aims to develop an AI model that predicts and synchronizes power loads, allowing data centers to utilize their expensive GPU investments more efficiently while improving grid stability. This addresses a critical bottleneck where unpredictable power surges currently force data center operators to throttle GPU performance or invest in costly energy storage.Read more →
TechCrunch...H&M wants to make clothing from CO2 using this startup’s techRubi, a biotech startup, has raised $7.5 million to scale enzyme-based technology that transforms captured carbon dioxide into cellulose fibers for textiles, providing a sustainable alternative to tree-based materials. This directly addresses the fashion industry's critical waste and carbon emissions problem, which generates one garbage truck of textile waste per second and produces more carbon than international aviation and shipping combined. The startup has validated commercial interest with over $60 million in non-binding agreements and pilot partnerships with major brands including H&M, Patagonia, and Walmart.Read more →
TechCrunch...Gamma adds AI image generation tools in bid to take on Canva and AdobeGamma has launched Gamma Imagine, an AI-powered image generation product that enables users to create brand-specific marketing assets like interactive charts, visualizations, and infographics using text prompts. The product integrates with tools including ChatGPT, Claude, and various automation platforms to power data-driven asset generation. The company positions itself between professional design tools like Adobe and Figma and legacy solutions like PowerPoint, targeting knowledge workers and business professionals.Read more →
Engadget...Dell XPS 16 (2026) review: Return of the kingDell has successfully revamped the XPS 16 for 2026, delivering a significantly thinner and lighter premium Windows laptop that rivals MacBook Air in portability while maintaining strong performance with Intel's latest processors and an optional vibrant OLED display. The redesign reasserts Dell's leadership in premium Windows laptops after the company nearly discontinued the iconic XPS brand, positioning it as a top competitor in the ultraportable segment. Despite early keyboard ghosting issues on initial units, Dell reports the problem has been resolved in current systems with additional software fixes expected by March.Read more →
CNET...Most US Adults Struggle With Wonky Wi-Fi Connections, CNET Finds. Here's What You Can Do About ItA CNET survey reveals that 86% of US adults experience Wi-Fi signal drops or disconnections, with 19% facing frequent issues that impact streaming and multiple simultaneous activities. Router upgrades every five years, mesh systems, and proper placement can address the problem, though underlying causes such as network congestion and inferior connection types may require ISP-level solutions.Read more →
CNET...This Stainless-Steel Air Fryer Is the Best Looking Model We've TestedThe Cosori Iconic is a premium $249 air fryer featuring an attractive stainless-steel design and solid cooking performance, supported by smart home integration through the VeSync app and a five-year warranty. While the device delivers excellent functionality and aesthetic appeal, its high price positions it as a luxury option compared to capable air fryers available at $100-$200 price points.Read more →
Engadget...Aqara's Matter-compatible camera promises easier smart home integrationAqara has released the first Matter-certified security camera, the G350, which serves as a Zigbee and Matter hub enabling control of smart home devices across different brands through a single app. The camera features dual lenses (4K and 2.5K), 9x hybrid zoom, 360-degree pan-tilt coverage with AI-powered tracking, and is priced at $140.Read more →
Gizmodo...Smart Glasses Have Privacy Advocates ScramblingMeta's Ray-Ban smart glasses have raised privacy concerns after sensitive videos were sent to human reviewers for analysis, some capturing intimate moments and financial information. The incidents have prompted Louisiana to propose legislation specifically targeting smart glasses to require recording consent and prevent covert filming without consent. This marks a significant escalation in regulatory response to privacy risks posed by wearable recording devices.Read more →
Engadget...How to make your smartphone last longerWith manufacturers now offering 5-7 years of software support and growing right-to-repair legislation, smartphones can remain functional for significantly longer than the traditional two-year upgrade cycle. The article outlines practical strategies such as using protective cases, managing battery health, and replacing internal batteries to extend device lifespan. This shift is driven by environmental concerns about e-waste and offers consumers substantial cost savings compared to frequent device replacements.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Doctor Who’ Has Never Met an Uncertain Time It Can’t Throw David Tennant AtDavid Tennant returns as the Tenth Doctor for 15 new Big Finish Productions audio dramas, with 12 episodes releasing bimonthly beginning summer 2027, plus a special three-episode set featuring multiple Doctor incarnations. This announcement expands Doctor Who content for fans as the television series determines its future following its split with Disney.Read more →
The Verge...Oppo’s nearly creaseless foldable isn’t launching in Europe after allOppo has launched the Find N6 foldable phone featuring a significantly improved "zero-feel crease" design through a liquid 3D-printed hinge, delivering one of the shallowest creases on the market. The device offers competitive specifications including a 200-megapixel camera system, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, and 6,000mAh battery starting at approximately $1,450, but availability is restricted to Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, excluding US and European markets despite the "global" launch promise. The phone includes an AI Pen stylus and enhanced multitasking features supporting up to four freely resizable floating windows.Read more →
CNET...I Love How Skinny Oppo's Foldable Phone Is, but I Hate That I Can't Buy ItOppo's Find N6 is an exceptionally thin (8.9mm) and durable foldable phone with triple IP ratings, featuring a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and a nearly invisible display crease that sets it apart from competitors. However, its availability limited to key Asian markets and Australia significantly restricts its global impact compared to Samsung and other major manufacturers.Read more →
CNET...Best Apple Watch for 2026Apple's 2026 smartwatch lineup features three models—the Series 11 (best overall), Ultra 3 (rugged/premium), and SE 3 (budget-friendly)—each designed for different user needs and budgets. The Series 11 stands out with new features like hypertension notifications, improved battery life of up to 30 hours, 5G connectivity, and a more durable screen. These enhancements position Apple Watch as a versatile health and connectivity device for iPhone users seeking comprehensive smartwatch functionality.Read more →
Engadget...Marshall adds a junior-sized party speaker to its lineupMarshall launches the Bromley 450, a compact and affordable speaker that brings 360-degree audio and 40+ hours of battery life to a smaller form factor. The model retains key features of its larger Bromley 750 sibling including lighting effects and professional inputs, while being 25% shorter and half the weight for enhanced portability.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung discontinues its Galaxy Z TriFold after just three monthsSamsung is preparing to axe its first three-panel foldable phone less than three months after launching the device in the US. Sales of the $2,899 Galaxy Z TriFold will first be wound down in Korea and then discontinued in the US once remaining inventory has been cleared, an unnamed Samsung spokesperson told Bloomberg. This follows […]Read more →
TechCrunch...Amazon adds 1-hour and 3-hour delivery options in the USAmazon is launching one-hour and three-hour delivery options across hundreds and thousands of U.S. cities respectively, competing directly with instant delivery services like Instacart and DoorDash. The company offers Prime members discounted rates at $9.99 and $4.99 while non-Prime customers pay $19.99 and $14.99, leveraging its existing same-day fulfillment network. This expansion aims to strengthen Amazon's position in the on-demand delivery market and enhance Prime member value.Read more →
CNET...I Asked AI to Help Me Choose a Hobby. Judging Its Suggestions, From Beekeeping to AstronomyThe article compares three major AI systems—Claude AI, Google Gemini, and ChatGPT—by asking them identical hobby recommendations for a specific person. Claude and Gemini demonstrated stronger personalization and context understanding, with Claude particularly excelling at tailoring suggestions to the user's deal-seeking nature, while ChatGPT's recommendations were less aligned with the original prompt's details.Read more →
Engadget...Senators tell ByteDance to shut down Seedance 2.0 AI video app 'immediately'ByteDance suspended Seedance 2.0 AI video generator after US senators demanded its immediate shutdown, citing threats to intellectual property rights and the creative community. The controversy centers on allegations that the AI model was trained on copyrighted materials without permission, generating content that replicated protected works and celebrity likenesses.Read more →
Engadget...The Morning After: Apple's surprise AirPods Max refreshApple has unveiled the AirPods Max 2 with an H2 chip, delivering a 50 percent improvement in noise cancellation alongside new Adaptive Audio and Live Translation features. The premium headphones remain priced at $549, offering the first significant update since 2020. Pre-orders begin March 25 with shipments expected in early April.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Warhammer 40,000’ Has Found Another Old Hero to Bring BackGames Workshop is returning Commissar Sebastian Yarrick, a beloved Warhammer 40,000 character, to the game's narrative after years of absence. The character will feature in a new campaign centered on the planet Armageddon with accompanying miniature releases. Yarrick's return marks a significant moment for the tabletop wargame, bringing back one of the franchise's most iconic human figures.Read more →
CNET...How to Find and Slay the Energy Vampires Hiding in Your HomeAn experiment measuring standby power consumption in household devices revealed that phantom energy usage is a significant expense, with a cable box consuming 19.9 watts on standby—the highest among tested appliances. Understanding which devices draw the most standby power can help households reduce their annual energy costs by selectively unplugging or using smart plugs for devices that don't require constant availability.Read more →
CNET...iPhone 17 Pro vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra Cameras Compared: Which Is the Photography King?A comprehensive camera comparison between the iPhone 17 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra reveals both phones deliver excellent photography with distinct processing approaches—the iPhone emphasizes natural colors while the Galaxy favors vibrant saturation. Neither phone demonstrates consistent superiority across various scenarios, including main, zoom, and night photography. Camera preference depends entirely on individual color processing style rather than objective performance differences, making both phones equally viable for photography-focused users.Read more →
CNET...Tired of Spam Calls? Try This iPhone Trick NowiOS 26 introduces a call screening feature that automatically filters spam calls on all compatible iPhones through three options: Never (default), Ask Reason for Calling, and Silence. The Ask Reason for Calling option is recommended as it screens calls from unsaved numbers while still allowing legitimate calls like doctor's offices to reach users. This feature significantly reduces spam call interruptions without compromising access to important communications.Read more →
CNET...iPhone 17 vs. iPhone 16: Is It Worth the Upgrade?The iPhone 17 launches at $829 with doubled base storage (256GB vs 128GB) and major upgrades including a larger 120Hz display, improved 48MP ultrawide camera, and enhanced battery life up to 30 hours of video playback. The iPhone 16 receives a $100 price cut, making it a competitive budget option. Both devices support Apple Intelligence AI capabilities, with iOS 26's Adaptive Power feature providing additional battery optimization.Read more →
CNET...The World's First Collapsible Hard Cooler Is Here, Just in Time for Summer CookoutsColeman introduced the Snap 'N Go, the first collapsible hard-cover cooler that folds to one-third of its original size while maintaining traditional hard-shell performance and cooling duration of 48-64 hours. The innovative design solves a significant storage challenge for outdoor enthusiasts and campers, combining portability with the durability and insulation quality expected from premium coolers.Read more →
CNET...10 Expert-Approved Kitchen Tools That Guarantee Healthy Eating Every DayKitchen tools and appliances such as pressure cookers, air fryers, and food processors can significantly simplify meal preparation and support health goals by reducing cooking time and effort. By decreasing friction in the cooking process, these gadgets help busy individuals establish and maintain consistent healthy eating habits. Registered dietitians recommend investing in quality cookware, storage solutions, and prep tools as key factors for long-term wellness commitment.Read more →
The Verge...Leaving civilization is now easier with this ‘off-grid utility core’Klumpen is a solar-powered, prefab utility pod designed to provide electricity, water, heating/cooling, and internet access to off-grid properties without requiring permits or professional installation. The $35,000 solution enables comfortable remote living while minimizing environmental impact through water recycling and renewable energy generation.Read more →
CNET...March Madness 2026: How to Watch the First FourNCAA March Madness 2026 begins with First Four games on Tuesday (men) and Wednesday (women), featuring multiple streaming and broadcast options including HBO Max, ESPN2, and TruTV. Various subscription services and live TV providers offer complete tournament coverage from March through mid-April.Read more →
TechCrunch...Gecko Robotics lands the largest U.S. Navy robotics deal yetGecko Robotics has secured a $54 million initial award from the U.S. Navy to deploy inspection robots that create digital twins of naval ships to monitor fleet health and predict maintenance needs. The solution aims to help the Navy achieve 80% ship readiness by 2027, reducing costly downtime and addressing the $13-20 billion in annual maintenance expenditures. The robots will enable predictive maintenance strategies that keep critical assets operational during deployment.Read more →
Gizmodo...OpenAI Reportedly Pivoting to a Focus on Business and Productivity OnlyOpenAI announced a strategic shift to prioritize business and productivity applications, marking a move away from peripheral projects to focus on agentic AI capabilities. The company hired OpenClaw's creator and launched GPT-5.4 targeting coding and business automation. This strategic pivot appears motivated by competitive pressure from Anthropic's Claude, which has gained significant traction in venture funding and federal government sectors.Read more →
Gizmodo...Aqara’s New Matter Smart Home Camera Hub Will Have No Compatibility CaveatsAqara released the Camera Hub G350, the first smart home camera with Matter support, enabling future compatibility across all major platforms including Apple, Google, and Amazon ecosystems. The dual-lens camera features 4K wide and 2.5K telephoto capabilities and functions as a Matter Controller and Bridge for smart home devices. The company also launched the Doorbell Camera G400, supporting both Power-over-Ethernet and traditional wiring with advanced object detection.Read more →
The Verge...Hands on with Aqara’s new Matter-compatible cameraAqara's Camera Hub G350 is the first indoor security camera supporting the Matter smart home standard, featuring dual lenses with 4K/2.5K resolution, 9x hybrid zoom, and 360-degree pan-tilt coverage. While currently limited to Samsung SmartThings with only basic livestreaming functionality, the camera demonstrates the promise of Matter-enabled unified smart home management across brands. Full feature support including recording management and pan-tilt controls are expected via future firmware updates.Read more →
Engadget...Denon's DP-500BT turntable combines premium design with Bluetooth streaming for $899Denon introduces the DP-500BT, a $899 turntable that fills a gap in its lineup by adding high-resolution Bluetooth wireless connectivity. The model features refined design inspired by the DP-3000NE, a belt-drive system, balanced S-shaped tonearm, semi-automatic operation, and a switchable phono preamp suitable for both beginners and experienced vinyl enthusiasts. Bluetooth connectivity through aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive enables wireless streaming to compatible speakers and headphones, including Denon's HEOS amplifiers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Picsart now allows creators to ‘hire’ AI assistants through agent marketplacePicsart has launched an AI agent marketplace enabling content creators and e-commerce shop owners to automate design and editing tasks through specialized AI assistants including Flair for Shopify store optimization, Resize Pro for format conversion, Remix for style application, and Swap for background changes. The platform shifts creators' role from manual execution to strategic direction-setting, with agents accessible via WhatsApp and Telegram. Users can control autonomy levels to require approval before agent actions, balancing automation with creator oversight.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Most Valuable Company in the World Welcomes You to Its Conference with ‘Veggie-Tales’-Adjacent SlopNvidia CEO Jensen Huang announced plans for $1 trillion in revenue over two years at GTC 2026, but capped his keynote with an AI-generated campfire singalong widely criticized for poor execution and awkward lyrics. The hastily-assembled musical finale exemplifies a broader tech industry problem where AI-enabled productivity prioritizes speed and efficiency over quality and thoughtfulness.Read more →
Engadget...Boox's new Go E Ink tablet includes a 10-inch display and runs Android 15Boox has released the Go 10.3 Lumi, an upgraded E Ink tablet featuring an integrated front light, Android 15 operating system, and access to the Google Play Store for traditional Android applications. The device improves upon its predecessor with enhanced security, better performance, and a lighter, thinner design while maintaining extended battery life, though it remains unsuitable for video-based content. Available for $450 with the front light or $420 without, it targets users seeking productivity and reading capabilities on an e-paper display.Read more →
TechCrunch...SEC eyes shift to twice-yearly earnings reportsThe SEC is proposing to change a 50-year-old requirement, allowing public companies to file earnings reports semiannually instead of quarterly. The change aims to reduce the financial and administrative burden on companies while potentially encouraging more firms to go public. SEC Chairman Paul Atkins and the Trump administration support the proposal, which could be released within weeks and follows similar moves by the European Union and U.K. about a decade ago.Read more →
The Verge...The Live Nation trial restarts with a 'velvet hammer'States are leading an antitrust case against Live Nation-Ticketmaster following the Department of Justice's mid-trial settlement, with trial testimony revealing the company used 'velvet hammer' tactics and rejected lucrative competitor offers to maintain monopoly control over major concert venues. Evidence shows Live Nation exclusively controls or books the top amphitheaters in the US and has nearly tripled profits from large venues since 2019, demonstrating systematic anticompetitive behavior.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nvidia Expects Agentic AI To Drive $1 Trillion In RevenueNvidia projects $1 trillion in revenue through 2027, a 200% increase from previous estimates, driven by exponential demand for agentic AI and inference computing. The company is expanding its infrastructure and partnerships, including CPU initiatives, collaboration with OpenClaw for AI agents, and robotaxi development with major automakers. This reflects a foundational shift in the tech industry toward agent-based AI systems as the primary computing paradigm.Read more →
CNET...Death by Tariffs: Volvo Discontinuing Entry-Level EX30 EV in the USVolvo is discontinuing the EX30 and EX30 Cross Country in the US market after the 2026 model year due to high tariffs and weak sales. The vehicle, originally promised as an affordable EV option under $35,000, saw its price rise to $40,344 following production relocation from China to Belgium due to Biden-era tariffs, then faced additional headwinds from Trump administration tariffs. This marks another major setback in the US EV market, with Volvo reporting only 5,409 EX30 sales in 2025 and a 60.5% decline in overall electrified vehicle sales.Read more →
CNET...What Apple’s New Partnership Could Mean for Its Fitness FutureLondon Marathon runners will be the first to experience this partnership during their upcoming April race.Read more →
TechCrunch...Nvidia’s version of OpenClaw could solve its biggest problem: securityNvidia has unveiled NemoClaw, an enterprise-grade platform built on the open-source OpenClaw project, designed to enable companies to build and deploy secure AI agents. CEO Jensen Huang positioned the platform as critical infrastructure for enterprises, comparing it to foundational technologies like Linux and Kubernetes. The hardware-agnostic platform is currently in Alpha and supports multiple coding agents and open AI models.Read more →
CNET...3 Things From Nvidia GTC 2026 Keynote: NemoClaw, DLSS 5 and Vera CPUNvidia announced three major products at GTC: NemoClaw for building autonomous AI agents with privacy features, DLSS 5 AI-powered upscaling for gaming with neural rendering, and the Vera CPU optimized for agentic AI with double the efficiency of traditional CPUs. The announcements demonstrate Nvidia's strategy to maintain AI market dominance across data center infrastructure, enterprise AI agents, and consumer gaming. These products capitalize on the industry's shift toward agentic AI systems.Read more →
CNET...'The Housemaid': When to Stream Sydney Sweeney's Thriller MovieThe Housemaid, a psychological thriller starring Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney, will premiere on Starz on April 1, 2025. The film, adapted from Freida McFadden's bestselling novel, explores dangerous power dynamics between a live-in housemaid and her wealthy employer. A sequel based on the trilogy's second book is currently in development.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Advisors Warn of Nuclear Spiral in Iran, Push to Nuke a New Canal for ShippingTrump's ongoing military conflict with Iran has prompted warnings from his advisors about catastrophic consequences including destruction of the region's water infrastructure and potential nuclear escalation. The war has already increased U.S. gas prices significantly and sparked concerns about broader economic instability and humanitarian disaster.Read more →
CNET...Nvidia Wants to Make It Easier to Create an OpenClaw AI AgentNvidia introduced NemoClaw, a reference stack for the OpenClaw agent platform that simplifies creation and management of autonomous AI assistants powered by LLMs like Claude. The solution provides an infrastructure layer with built-in security features including sandboxing, policy-based guardrails, and a privacy router for safe cloud tool connections. Designed for always-on agents that require constant computing power, NemoClaw enables single-command setup while maintaining strict privacy and data protection controls.Read more →
Engadget...Android tablets and foldables are getting a Chrome bookmark barGoogle is introducing a bookmark bar to Chrome for Android foldables and tablets in version 146, bringing a more desktop-like browsing experience to larger mobile devices. This feature, displayed below the Omnibox with favicons and site names, caters to users who perform intensive computing tasks on tablets and foldables. The bookmark bar can be enabled via Settings > Appearance.Read more →
Gizmodo...Timothée Chalamet Looks Messed Up in the First Look at ‘Dune: Part Three’Warner Bros. has unveiled the first look at Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides in Dune: Part Three, which will adapt Dune Messiah and continue the character's journey. The film, directed by Denis Villeneuve and featuring an ensemble cast including Robert Pattinson, Florence Pugh, and Anya Taylor-Joy, is scheduled to release December 18. This major blockbuster is positioned to compete directly with Avengers: Doomsday at the box office.Read more →
Gizmodo...Encyclopedia Britannica Sues OpenAI Over AI Training Data. Is Grokipedia Next?Encyclopedia Britannica filed a federal lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging the company used approximately 100,000 of its articles to train ChatGPT models without permission. The suit seeks damages and demands that OpenAI cease using its content, joining a growing wave of copyright litigation from media outlets and publishers challenging AI companies' data practices. The case underscores ongoing tensions between AI development's data requirements and intellectual property protections.Read more →
Engadget...NVIDIA and Bolt team up for European robotaxisNVIDIA and Bolt announced a partnership where Bolt will utilize NVIDIA's autonomous vehicle technology stack including Cosmos, Omniverse, and Alpamayo to develop self-driving capabilities for European rideshare services. In exchange, NVIDIA gains a major customer and access to Bolt's real-world fleet driving data to refine its autonomous vehicle models. This collaboration creates a scalable foundation for safe autonomous mobility optimized for the complexity of European road conditions.Read more →
The Verge...DLSS 5 looks like a real-time generative AI filter for video gamesNvidia unveiled DLSS 5, a generative AI-powered graphics technology that enhances lighting, materials, and character details in real-time gaming at up to 4K resolution. While the technology delivers increased visual realism, early reactions reveal significant controversy over its use of AI-generated alterations that modify character appearances and artistic intent. The feature will launch this fall with developer controls to mitigate visual effects, though reception remains divided between those viewing it as a breakthrough and critics calling it artificially intrusive.Read more →
The Verge...Teens sue Elon Musk’s xAI over Grok’s AI-generated CSAMExplicit AI-generated images of minors, including at least 19 victims, were discovered posted on Discord according to reported allegations. This incident highlights the emerging threat of synthetic child sexual abuse material being generated and distributed through artificial intelligence technology. The case demonstrates significant gaps in platform moderation and enforcement of laws protecting minors from exploitation.Read more →
TechCrunch...Jensen just put Nvidia’s Blackwell and Vera Rubin sales projections into the $1 trillion stratosphereNvidia CEO Jensen Huang projected $1 trillion in orders for the company's Blackwell and Rubin AI chips through 2027, doubling the previous $500 billion forecast and reflecting robust demand in the AI sector. The Rubin chip is positioned as state-of-the-art AI hardware, operating 3.5x faster than Blackwell on model training and 5x faster on inference tasks. Production is expected to ramp up in the second half of 2026, enabling Nvidia to capture substantial market share in AI infrastructure.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 17, #540The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition is a daily word puzzle game where players group sports-related words by theme. This guide provides hints and answers for today's puzzle, enabling players to solve groupings related to hockey, baseball, football, and basketball.Read more →
CNET...Nvidia Is Building a Computer for AI Data Centers in SpaceNvidia CEO Jensen Huang discussed plans to create AI data centers in space as the next frontier for AI infrastructure, though significant engineering challenges remain. The primary obstacle is thermal management, as cooling chips in a vacuum requires solutions beyond traditional conduction and convection methods, relying instead on radiation cooling.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘The Last of Us’ Season 3 Just Cast Patrick Wilson to Die ImmediatelyPatrick Wilson has been cast as Jerry in The Last of Us season three, playing Abby's father who was killed by Joel in season one. The casting suggests showrunner Craig Mazin is closely following the video game's structure by including flashback scenes of Jerry's interactions with Abby before his death. Wilson's involvement despite the character's prior death indicates the role may have been expanded beyond what was shown in the game.Read more →
Gizmodo...Archaeologists Unearth 43,000 Ancient Egyptian Receipts, Notes, and ‘To Do’ ListsArchaeologists have recovered over 43,000 pieces of ostraca—pottery shards used for informal writing—from an ancient Egyptian site at Athribis, spanning from 332 BC to the 11th century AD. These artifacts provide unprecedented insight into the daily lives of ordinary Egyptians, containing mundane notes about grocery lists, taxes, schoolwork, and religious matters. The discovery demonstrates that common people regularly documented their everyday activities using casual writing surfaces, offering historians a comprehensive view of ancient Egyptian society beyond official records.Read more →
The Verge...Ecovacs’ Deebot X8 and X9 Pro Omni robovacs are nearly 50 percent offEcovacs robot vacuums Deebot X8 Pro Omni and X9 Pro Omni have reached their lowest prices, dropping to $599 and $679 respectively ahead of Amazon's Big Spring Sale. Both models feature lidar-based navigation, self-cleaning mops, and intelligent docks with water management, controllable via smartphone app or voice commands. These discounts provide significant savings on premium automated cleaning robots compared to newer flagship models.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nvidia Wants to Slop-ify Your PC Games With Its New AI UpscalerNvidia announced DLSS 5 at GTC 2026, a graphics technology leveraging generative AI for real-time rendering to enhance lighting, materials, and character details in games. The technology is expected to launch in fall 2026 with support for up to 4K resolution and will integrate with multiple existing and upcoming titles.Read more →
TechCrunch...Warren presses Pentagon over decision to grant xAI access to classified networksSenator Elizabeth Warren has raised concerns about the Pentagon's decision to grant xAI's Grok AI system access to classified networks, citing the model's documented failures including generation of harmful content and potential security vulnerabilities. Warren is demanding the Defense Department provide details on safeguards and risk mitigation measures to protect military personnel and classified information from potential breaches. The move follows the Pentagon's controversial labeling of AI firm Anthropic as a supply chain risk, prompting the military to seek alternatives from OpenAI and xAI.Read more →
Gizmodo...Asteroid Ryugu Contains All 5 DNA and RNA Building Blocks, Study ShowsResearchers have detected all five nucleobases—the building blocks of DNA and RNA—in samples from asteroid Ryugu, collected by Japan's Hayabusa2 spacecraft. This finding supports the theory that asteroids delivered the chemical ingredients necessary for life to early Earth through collisions. The discovery suggests ammonia may have played a key role in nucleobase formation in the early solar system, revealing potentially unknown chemical pathways for life's origins.Read more →
The Verge...Benjamin Netanyahu is struggling to prove he's not an AI cloneSocial media conspiracy theories claiming Israeli PM Netanyahu was killed and replaced by deepfakes spread following a press conference, with fact-checkers debunking the claims as video degradation. The incident highlights a critical problem: without authentication systems like C2PA or SynthID, there is no reliable way to definitively verify video authenticity, creating a widespread crisis of trust as AI-generated content becomes increasingly sophisticated.Read more →
Gizmodo...Teens Sue xAI Over Sexualized Images Generated by GrokMinors have filed the first class action lawsuit against xAI, alleging its Grok image generation model was used to create non-consensual sexual material of teenage girls without adequate safeguards. The plaintiffs claim xAI knowingly profited from features enabling abuse while failing to implement industry-standard child protection measures. The case involves a perpetrator who used Grok to generate sexualized deepfakes from the girls' social media photos that were then distributed across platforms like Discord and Telegram.Read more →
CNET...Disney and Nvidia Combine on Robotics and AI to Bring Olaf Droid to LifeDisney has unveiled a robotic Olaf powered by Nvidia GPUs and the Newton Physics Engine, designed to interact with theme park guests. The AI-powered robot uses machine learning trained on Disney animator data to replicate Olaf's signature movements and will debut at Disneyland Paris on March 29. This represents a significant advancement in using AI-driven robotics and GPU computing for interactive entertainment experiences.Read more →
Gizmodo...We Met Disney’s Most Advanced Robot Yet: Olaf From ‘Frozen’Disney unveiled Olaf, an advanced robotic character powered by reinforcement learning AI that replicates the snowman's distinctive movement and personality from Frozen using animation training data and voice acting by Josh Gad. The technology enables Disney to debut character experiences alongside film releases rather than years later, significantly accelerating their robotics development timeline. The robot debuts at World of Frozen in Disneyland Paris on March 29, with future plans for expanded guest interactions.Read more →
The Verge...Nvidia says China’s BYD and Geely will use its robotaxi platformNvidia announced partnerships with Chinese automakers BYD and Geely, along with Isuzu and Nissan, to develop Level 4 autonomous vehicles using its Drive Hyperion platform, positioning itself as a key supplier in the global robotaxi market. The company is rapidly expanding its automotive business through partnerships with Waymo, Uber, Lyft, and other autonomous vehicle developers, while introducing Halos OS as a safety guardrail system. Despite these ambitious moves amid US-China trade tensions, Nvidia's automotive division still represents only 1.2% of its revenue.Read more →
The Verge...I met Olaf — the Frozen robot who might be the future of Disney ParksDisney created an interactive Olaf robot using reinforcement learning to achieve screen-accurate movements and emotions, trained in just two days using an Nvidia GPU. The teleoperated robot will debut at Disneyland Paris on March 26th, representing Disney's vision to populate theme parks with interactive character robots. Disney is releasing its Kamino simulation tool and Newton Physics Engine as open-source resources to advance robotics development.Read more →
TechCrunch...Memories AI is building the visual memory layer for wearables and roboticsMemories.ai, a startup founded by former Meta engineers, partnered with Nvidia to develop visual memory infrastructure for AI wearables and robotics. The company launched its large visual memory model and secured partnerships with Qualcomm and major wearable manufacturers to enable AI systems to remember and recall visual data from physical environments. This addresses a critical gap in AI development where existing memory solutions focus on text-based data, leaving physical AI applications without visual memory capabilities.Read more →
CNET...Meta Reportedly Plans Job Cuts as AI Spending SurgesMeta is reportedly planning workforce layoffs affecting up to one-fifth of its employees to reduce costs amid massive AI infrastructure investments. The cuts aim to leverage AI agents and automation to maintain operations with fewer workers, as the company pursues artificial general intelligence despite significant setbacks in projects like Avocado and Llama 4. This reflects broader industry trends as major tech companies consolidate headcount while increasing reliance on AI tools to boost productivity.Read more →
CNET...OpenAI to Launch ChatGPT 'Adult Mode' Despite Warnings From Its Own AdvisersOpenAI is developing an adult mode for ChatGPT permitting text conversations with adult themes while restricting erotic audio, images, and videos. The feature, initially scheduled for late March, has been delayed due to concerns from company advisers and executives about insufficient age verification safeguards and risks to minors accessing adult content.Read more →
Engadget...Sony's enhanced PSSR upscaling arrives on PS5 Pro todaySony released an enhanced version of its PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) AI-powered upscaling technology for PS5 Pro via system update. The upgraded algorithm and neural network improve image reconstruction precision and motion stability while giving developers greater flexibility in balancing performance versus visual fidelity. The enhancement is available today for supported games from multiple developers.Read more →
Engadget...xAI is being sued by teens who say Grok created CSAM using their photosxAI's Grok AI faces a class action lawsuit from three Tennessee teenagers alleging their photos were used to generate sexualized images of minors distributed for child sexual abuse material trafficking. The lawsuit, which could extend to thousands of minors, claims violations of laws prohibiting production and distribution of child exploitation material. xAI is currently under multiple investigations worldwide for Grok's reported generation of millions of unauthorized explicit images, including thousands depicting children.Read more →
TechCrunch...Samsung bets this island startup can tame the grid with software and batteriesGridBeyond raised €12 million to expand its virtual power plant platform, which coordinates distributed renewable energy, batteries, and flexible industrial loads to manage peak grid demand. The technology is particularly critical for data centers running AI training operations, where batteries can absorb sudden power draws and prevent grid instability. By orchestrating diverse grid resources, the startup enables hyperscale data centers to secure reliable power connections while accelerating renewable energy integration.Read more →
Engadget...NVIDIA claims DLSS 5 will deliver 'photoreal' image quality with AI this fallNVIDIA announced DLSS 5, a next-generation upscaling technology using real-time neural rendering to infuse games with photoreal lighting and materials. The AI-powered system processes color and motion vectors to enhance scenes in real-time at up to 4K resolution, representing what NVIDIA claims is the biggest breakthrough in computer graphics since ray tracing.Read more →
CNET...ByteDance's AI Video Tool Seedance 2.0 Reportedly Delayed Amid Hollywood PressureByteDance is delaying the global launch of Seedance 2.0, its video-generating AI model, due to copyright and legal concerns from Hollywood studios and labor unions. The model produces photorealistic videos that convincingly depict real actors and copyrighted intellectual property, distinguishing it from other AI video generators. The delay reflects industry pressure over deepfakes, unauthorized content use, and potential harm to actors' careers.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Alien Planet Might Be the Stinkiest Place in the GalaxyAstronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope have identified a previously unknown class of exoplanet in L 98-59 d, a molten world with volatile sulfur gases and a permanent magma ocean located 35 light-years away. The discovery indicates that current planetary classification systems are oversimplified and this planet may represent the first member of a broader population of sulfurous, gas-rich planets. Computer modeling reveals the planet's magma ocean exchanges sulfur dioxide with its upper atmosphere, allowing it to retain a thick hydrogen-rich atmosphere despite radiation from its host star.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple acquires video editing software company MotionVFXApple has acquired MotionVFX, a Warsaw-based provider of professional video editing plugins and templates for Final Cut Pro, to enhance its Creator Studio subscription bundle and strengthen competition against Adobe Creative Cloud. The acquisition enables Apple to integrate MotionVFX's professional-grade tools and templates into its services ecosystem, supporting its growing services revenue segment which now represents over 26% of the company's total revenue.Read more →
TechCrunch...Elon Musk’s xAI faces child porn lawsuit from minors Grok allegedly undressedThree anonymous plaintiffs have filed a class action lawsuit against xAI, alleging that its Grok model failed to implement standard safeguards to prevent the generation of sexually explicit images of identifiable minors. The lawsuit contends that xAI did not adopt the protective measures commonly used by other AI laboratories and seeks civil penalties for alleged corporate negligence. The case raises critical questions about AI companies' responsibility for preventing abuse, particularly when their technology is used by third-party applications.Read more →
Gizmodo...Animated ‘Firefly’ Already Exists, and It’s Called ‘Outlaw Star’Nathan Fillion unveiled a plan to revive Firefly as an animated series set between the original show and its movie sequel, though the project remains in early development with no studio backing yet. The article recommends the 1998 anime Outlaw Star as a thematically similar science fiction western series with comparable crew dynamics and episodic storytelling that is available on Crunchyroll.Read more →
TechCrunch...Nvidia’s DLSS 5 uses generative AI to boost photorealism in video games, with ambitions beyond gamingNvidia unveiled DLSS 5, an AI graphics technology that combines traditional 3D graphics with generative AI models to produce detailed game scenes and realistic characters while reducing computational requirements. The system fuses structured 3D data with probabilistic AI to enable developers to create higher-quality content more efficiently. CEO Jensen Huang positioned this fusion of structured data and generative AI as a broader computing paradigm applicable across industries, including enterprise data analytics and future AI agent systems.Read more →
Gizmodo...Polymarket Bettors Allegedly Send Israeli Reporter Death Threats Demanding Changes to ArticleA Times of Israel journalist received escalating threats from bettors demanding he change his reporting about an Iranian missile strike to align with their losing Polymarket bet positions worth $16 million. The threats included death messages mentioning his address and family, highlighting how prediction markets can incentivize attacks on journalists and compromise press freedom.Read more →
Engadget...Judge rules that Krafton must rehire fired Subnautica directorA Delaware judge ruled that Krafton must reinstate Ted Gill as CEO of Unknown Worlds Entertainment, finding the publisher violated its employment contract when firing him and two co-founders. The dispute centers on a $250 million bonus tied to revenue targets that Krafton delayed and allegedly attempted to avoid paying through various means, including consulting ChatGPT for strategies.Read more →
Gizmodo...FCC Chairman Threatens to Revoke TV Licenses Over Iran CoverageFCC Chairman Brendan Carr threatened to revoke broadcast licenses from news outlets whose Iran war coverage displeases the Trump administration, claiming they must serve the public interest. The threat exemplifies concerns about weaponizing FCC regulatory authority against journalists critical of the administration, with similar pressure being applied to other media organizations by multiple officials.Read more →
TechCrunch...The MacBook Neo is ‘the most repairable MacBook’ in years, according to iFixitApple's new MacBook Neo is the most repairable MacBook in 14 years, featuring a battery secured with screws instead of adhesive and easier-to-replace displays and keyboards, earning a 6 out of 10 repairability score. This improvement reflects years of regulatory pressure and right-to-repair legislation, though soldered RAM and storage still limit full upgradeability.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung ends Galaxy Z TriFold sales three months after launchSamsung is discontinuing Galaxy Z TriFold sales in South Korea on March 17, just three months after launch, while the device remains available in the US until inventory depletes. The device was designed as a technology showcase rather than a mass-market product, with limited batches sold directly via Samsung's website and no review units provided. Rising component costs eliminated profit margins, leaving Samsung with no financial incentive to continue production despite secondary market demand at triple the retail price.Read more →
Gizmodo...Chloé Zhao Is ‘Not Surprised’ Her ‘Buffy’ Reboot Got Staked at HuluHulu has cancelled its Buffy: New Sunnydale reboot pilot directed by Chloé Zhao and starring Sarah Michelle Gellar. While the project's pilot was not deemed a perfect fit, Hulu remains interested in rebooting the beloved franchise and plans to explore a new creative vision.Read more →
CNET...T-Mobile vs. Verizon: Which Big Phone Carrier Is Best for You?T-Mobile and Verizon dominate the US cellular market, with T-Mobile recently winning network quality awards and offering more competitive pricing. T-Mobile's plans include streaming services and higher hotspot data allowances, while Verizon provides modular customization options but typically at premium prices. Coverage varies by location, so consumers should verify service quality in their area before choosing a carrier.Read more →
The Verge...Sony's AI graphics upscaling for PS5 Pro games is getting a big update tonightSony has upgraded its Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) technology for PS5 Pro, leveraging AI to improve upscaling quality and eliminate visual artifacts like shimmering and flickering. The enhancement, developed through AMD and Sony's Project Amethyst, will be rolled out via a system software update beginning March 17th and will support numerous titles including Cyberpunk 2077, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Silent Hill 2. This improvement aims to deliver crisper, more consistent graphics while maintaining current framerates on existing hardware.Read more →
Engadget...Apple acquires popular video editing software company MotionVFXApple acquired MotionVFX, a provider of visual effects plugins and templates for video editing software, signaling potential enhancements to Final Cut Pro. The acquisition could strengthen Final Cut Pro's capabilities and competitive position against industry-standard tools like Adobe Premiere and DaVinci Resolve. No acquisition price or additional deal details have been disclosed.Read more →
CNET...2026 Oscars: How to Stream All the WinnersThe 2026 Oscar winners are now available on major streaming platforms, with films like One Battle After Another, Sinners, and Frankenstein earning top honors. This guide directs viewers to HBO Max, Netflix, Peacock, Prime Video, and other services where they can stream the award-winning films. Some Oscar winners including Avatar: Fire and Ash remain theatrical-only releases.Read more →
TechCrunch...Another deep tech chip startup becomes a unicorn: Frore hits $1.64BFrore Systems, a semiconductor cooling technology company, raised $143 million in Series D funding at a $1.64 billion valuation. The company develops liquid cooling systems for AI chips, pivoting from its original air-cooling focus after guidance from Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang. This funding reflects robust investment in AI semiconductor infrastructure and cooling solutions critical for high-performance AI systems.Read more →
Gizmodo...Washington Post’s Surveillance Pricing Under Fire From Dems Who Want to Ban the PracticeThe Washington Post is using algorithm-based pricing that charges different subscription rates to individual subscribers based on their personal data, a practice known as surveillance pricing. This has prompted Democratic lawmakers to introduce legislation to ban the practice, with New York already passing a law requiring companies to disclose when AI determines pricing. The strategy reflects broader concerns about algorithmic price manipulation and growing regulatory scrutiny of AI-driven business practices.Read more →
TechCrunch...Fuse raises $25M to disrupt aging loan origination systems used by U.S. credit unionsFuse, an AI-native loan origination system startup, raised $25 million in Series A funding to modernize lending infrastructure for credit unions. The platform leverages AI agents to automate underwriting, reduce operational costs, and accelerate loan processing while offering a $5 million 'rescue fund' to help credit unions transition from expensive legacy systems.Read more →
Engadget...Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight's release date moves up a weekWarner Bros. Games has advanced the release of Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight by one week to May 22 across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Steam, and Epic Games Store, with a Nintendo Switch 2 version arriving later in 2026. Pre-order customers will receive an exclusive The Dark Knight Returns Batsuit, while deluxe edition purchasers maintain their three-day early access benefit.Read more →
TechCrunch...The dictionary sues OpenAIEncyclopedia Britannica and Merriam-Webster have sued OpenAI for massive copyright infringement, alleging the company scraped nearly 100,000 articles without permission to train ChatGPT and uses them in its retrieval augmented generation workflow. The publishers claim ChatGPT's outputs directly compete with and substitute for their content, depriving them of revenue while also falsely attributing hallucinations to them. This lawsuit joins a growing wave of legal actions from The New York Times, Ziff Davis, and multiple newspapers challenging OpenAI's use of copyrighted material for AI model training.Read more →
CNET...How to Watch March Madness 2026 for FreeThe 2026 March Madness tournament begins March 17 for men and March 18 for women, with games distributed across ESPN, CBS, TBS, TNT, and other platforms. Viewers can watch games for free through the March Madness Live app or website with TV provider login, over-the-air broadcasts, or free trials from streaming services like YouTube TV (21 days), with paid options ranging from $14-$90 monthly. Multiple platforms offer free trials ranging from three to 21 days, allowing fans to watch much of the tournament without subscribing to multiple expensive services.Read more →
Gizmodo...Amy Madigan’s ‘Weapons’ Oscar Win Was a Big Win for HorrorHorror films achieved a historic milestone at the Academy Awards, winning a record-breaking eight awards total. Madigan's Best Supporting Actress win for her role in Weapons marks the first Oscar for a horror villain performance in over 30 years, signaling growing mainstream recognition and prestige for the horror genre.Read more →
The Verge...Encyclopedia Britannica is suing OpenAI for allegedly ‘memorizing’ its content with ChatGPTOn Friday, Encyclopedia Britannica and dictionary publisher Merriam-Webster filed a lawsuit against OpenAI alleging that it used their copyrighted content to train its AI, then generated responses that were "substantially similar" to their content, as previously reported by Reuters. According to Britannica, OpenAI repeatedly copied its content without permission, stating, "GPT-4 itself has 'memorized' much […]Read more →
CNET...My Best iPhone Hack: Turn Off Your Camera Control Button for Good. Here's HowApple's iPhone 16 camera control button, designed to enable Visual Intelligence AI features, frequently activates accidentally and fails when intentionally used, degrading user experience. The article critiques this as symptomatic of tech companies prioritizing AI integration without adequate consideration of practical usability. The author demonstrates how to disable the feature, highlighting the importance of functional opt-out options for controversial features.Read more →
The Verge...Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K Max and 4K Plus sticks are up to 50 percent offAmazon's Fire TV Stick 4K Max and 4K Plus are at their lowest prices ever ($34.99 and $24.99 respectively) with a redesigned Fire TV OS that improves content discovery through personalized recommendations and category tabs. The new OS allows users to pin up to 20 favorite apps and control content via Alexa voice commands, with the premium 4K Max offering enhanced hardware features including Wi-Fi 6E and 16GB storage.Read more →
Engadget...Encyclopedia Britannica sues OpenAI for copyright and trademark infringementEncyclopedia Britannica sued OpenAI for copyright infringement and trademark violations, alleging that OpenAI used its copyrighted content at massive scale during AI model training. The lawsuit claims ChatGPT reproduces full or partial verbatim excerpts from Britannica's articles and generates false content falsely attributed to the encyclopedia. Britannica seeks an injunction and monetary damages, while OpenAI maintains its use falls under fair use protections.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Fungus Can Make Water FreezeResearchers discovered a fungal protein that triggers ice formation at -2°C, derived from a distant bacterial ancestor and adapted by soil fungi to be more soluble and stable. This non-toxic alternative to silver iodide has significant applications for cloud seeding, weather engineering, and cell preservation. The finding reveals that common soil fungi likely contribute more to atmospheric ice formation than previously estimated and could improve climate models.Read more →
CNET...My Original AirPods Max Stopped Working, So I Put Them in the Freezer. Really.Apple released the AirPods Max 2 with improved H2 chip for enhanced noise canceling and audio quality at $549. The author discovered that freezing failing older AirPods Max for 30+ minutes temporarily restores functionality, likely by contracting wire insulation to reconnect microscopic cracks caused by repeated swivel wear, though this provides only temporary relief.Read more →
Gizmodo...Workers Most At-Risk of Being Hit by AI Layoffs Are Well-Positioned to Adapt, Study FindsA Brookings Institute study examining AI's impact on employment finds that 26.5 million of 37.1 million workers in high-AI-exposure jobs have strong adaptive capacity, but 6.1 million—primarily in clerical and administrative roles (86% women)—face displacement with limited ability to transition. Workers in midsize cities in the Mountain West and Midwest may face particular challenges adapting to AI-driven job displacement.Read more →
CNET...Amazon Deals of the Day: Turn Up the Tunes With $100 Off the Sonos Move 2 SpeakerAmazon is offering significant discounts on premium consumer electronics: a Sonos Move 2 portable speaker ($100 off), a 55-inch Insignia 4K TV ($170 off), and a Roborock robot vacuum (38% discount). These limited-time deals provide substantial savings on high-quality audio, entertainment, and home automation products. CNET identifies these as top deals currently available on the retailer.Read more →
Gizmodo...There’s a Good Reason the MacBook Neo Is Apple’s Most Repairable LaptopApple's new MacBook Neo is the company's most repairable laptop in 14 years, featuring easily accessible and replaceable components including the battery and keyboard without requiring specialized tools. Despite being a budget-friendly $600 device, the MacBook Neo demonstrates Apple's potential to balance premium design with repairability, though memory and storage remain non-upgradable.Read more →
Gizmodo...Maul Wants the Revenge of a Sith in the New ‘Shadow Lord’ TrailerLucasfilm announced the premiere of 'Star Wars: Maul—Shadow Lord,' a new animated series debuting April 6 on Disney+. The series follows Maul's quest for revenge against his former master Darth Sidious, forming an unlikely alliance with former Jedi Devon Izara to bring down the Empire. The show continues the Star Wars franchise's expansion into animation during the early Imperial era.Read more →
TechCrunch...Antonio Gracias says he’s longing for ‘proentropic’ startups — those that are built to survive chaosAntonio Gracias introduced 'proentropic,' describing startups designed to thrive in chaos through probabilistic thinking and adaptability. The term reflects a venture capital philosophy for navigating technological disruption and geopolitical volatility, exemplified by companies like SpaceX and Tesla. Gracias believes this approach unlocks unprecedented opportunities in an AI-driven era, with low-code tools democratizing entrepreneurship.Read more →
TechCrunch...Shopify is preparing for AI shopping agents to change everything, exec saysShopify is shifting focus to agentic shopping, deploying AI agents as personalized shoppers to drive online retail growth beyond the current 18% of U.S. purchases. These agents will provide preference-based product recommendations and help surface products from smaller merchants, offering more authentic curation than traditional search engines. The company is building merchant tools including the Sidekick AI assistant and agent protocols to integrate product data.Read more →
Gizmodo...With Midterms Looming, Trump’s Pick for Surgeon General Suddenly Thinks Measles Vaccines Are a Good IdeaCasey Means, Trump's nominee for U.S. surgeon general, has explicitly endorsed measles vaccination in written remarks to senators, reversing her earlier evasiveness on vaccines. The endorsement signals the Trump administration is backing away from the anti-vaccine movement, likely due to measles outbreaks and declining public trust in federal health agencies under RFK Jr.'s leadership.Read more →
CNET...Nvidia GTC: All the AI and Robotics News We Expect to Hear at Today's KeynoteNvidia's GTC event, headlined by CEO Jensen Huang, showcases the company's dominance in AI chip production and strategic direction toward physical AI and robotics. The keynote demonstrates Nvidia's critical role as the backbone infrastructure for major AI companies, while the industry faces growing concerns about AI bubbles, environmental impact, and workforce disruption.Read more →
Gizmodo...Watch a Clip of ‘Doctor Who’ That’s Not Been Seen for Over 60 YearsThe BBC has recovered two missing Doctor Who episodes from 1965 that have been unseen for 61 years, marking a significant milestone in television archival recovery. These restored episodes will be released on BBC iPlayer, allowing audiences to experience content from the show's early history. The recovery underscores both the show's cultural importance and the challenges of media preservation faced by broadcasters in the pre-digital era.Read more →
Gizmodo...Weather Across the US Is Going Absolutely Berserk This WeekThe United States is experiencing four colliding extreme weather events this week driven by unusual jet stream behavior, bringing record-breaking heat to the West, dangerous blizzards and Arctic cold to the East, and severe thunderstorms with tornado risk to the Mid-Atlantic. These extreme conditions pose significant risks to health, infrastructure, and power systems across tens of millions of people. The volatile weather patterns are expected to continue developing throughout the week.Read more →
The Verge...Amazon’s best Echo speakers and screens just got their biggest discountsAmazon's late 2025 Echo speaker and smart display refresh introduces improved hardware, better performance, and Alexa Plus features across several models. Current Big Spring Sale discounts make these devices more affordable for consumers seeking smart home audio and display solutions. Key offerings include the Echo Show 11 and 8 with enhanced screens, and the Echo Studio offering Atmos support for room-filling sound.Read more →
Engadget...OpenAI's adult mode reportedly won't generate pornographic audio, images or videoOpenAI is developing an 'adult mode' feature for ChatGPT that will permit explicit text conversations while restricting generation of explicit images, audio, or video. Despite unanimous concerns from its wellbeing council about potential user addiction and underage access, OpenAI has continued development and delayed the feature's release multiple times since its original planned launch in early 2026.Read more →
Engadget...How to find and cancel your unused subscriptionsThis guide provides practical strategies for identifying and canceling unwanted subscriptions, which have become increasingly difficult to manage due to companies deliberately making cancellation harder than signup. It offers detailed step-by-step instructions for canceling popular services like Netflix, Spotify, Apple TV, and YouTube TV across multiple platforms, and recommends subscription management apps like Rocket Money that can automate the process. Regular subscription audits can save consumers hundreds of dollars annually by eliminating unused services.Read more →
The Verge...Yahoo CEO Jim Lanzone on reviving the web's homepageYahoo, now independent and profitable under private equity ownership, has launched Scout, an AI-powered search engine built on Anthropic's Haiku model that sends traffic downstream to publishers rather than creating walled gardens. CEO Jim Lanzone is leveraging Yahoo's 250 million US users and first-party data advantage to compete in AI-enhanced search while integrating Scout across Finance, Sports, and Mail properties. The company is focusing on aggregation and strategic partnerships rather than operating betting platforms itself, positioning search advertising as the key monetization opportunity in the emerging answer engine category.Read more →
The Verge...This chair gives half-worn clothes a homeA multifunctional furniture piece combining seating with swivelling storage designed to organize laundry and household items in a compact form factor.Read more →
Engadget...Tech companies are teaming up to combat scammersEight major technology companies including Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon have signed the Online Services Accord Against Scams to establish industry-wide standards for combating fraud. The initiative will implement fraud detection tools, enhance user security features, and facilitate information sharing between companies and law enforcement to target sophisticated criminal networks. While the agreement includes recommendations for government action, all measures remain voluntary with no enforcement penalties.Read more →
CNET...Apple AirPods Max 2 Headphones Are Here, Powered by the New H2 ChipApple has unveiled the AirPods Max 2, upgrading the premium headphones with the H2 chip to deliver 1.5x more effective noise canceling and enhanced audio clarity through a new high-dynamic range amplifier. The updated model maintains the $549 price point while adding features like Adaptive Audio, Voice Isolation, and studio-quality audio recording, along with improved voice-calling performance powered by advanced AI filtering.Read more →
TechCrunch...How to watch Jensen Huang’s Nvidia GTC 2026 keynote — and what to expectNvidia is hosting its annual GTC developer conference with CEO Jensen Huang's keynote focused on AI's future in computing. The company is expected to unveil NemoClaw, an enterprise AI agent platform, and a new inference accelerator chip designed to reduce computational bottlenecks in AI deployment. These announcements represent Nvidia's strategic push to dominate both AI model training and inference markets.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple quietly launches AirPods Max 2Apple unveiled the AirPods Max 2 at $549, featuring 1.5x more effective active noise cancellation, the H2 chip, live translation, and significantly improved audio quality with spatial audio and voice isolation. The new headphones also introduce Camera Remote functionality and enhanced microphone quality optimized for content creators. Available for pre-order March 25, the Max 2 represents a major upgrade focused on audio quality and cross-language communication.Read more →
Gizmodo...After Five Years, Apple Announces AirPods Max 2 Out of NowhereApple released the AirPods Max 2 with up to 1.5x more effective active noise cancellation powered by the new H2 chip and improved audio quality from a new high dynamic range amplifier. The $550 headphones introduce software features including Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Live Translation, expanding Apple's premium audio device ecosystem. Preorders begin March 25 with delivery expected in early April.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Invincible’ Is Back in Fighting Form—Its Animation, Not So MuchInvincible season four demonstrates narrative maturity as the series builds toward its climactic conflict, with Mark Grayson confronting existential questions about his identity between his human and alien heritage. However, the show's near-annual release schedule increasingly impacts animation quality, with noticeable shortcuts and freeze-frame techniques undermining action sequences that were previously a series highlight.Read more →
Engadget...Apple announces the AirPods Max 2 with improved noise cancelation and H2 chipApple announced the AirPods Max 2, featuring the H2 chip with 1.5x improved noise cancellation, Adaptive Audio, conversation awareness, and Live Translation capabilities. This marks the first major update to Apple's premium over-ear headphones since 2020, bringing them to feature parity with the AirPods Pro 3 while maintaining the $549 price point.Read more →
Gizmodo...Terry Matalas Teases Ultron’s Return in ‘Vision Quest’This article covers multiple entertainment production updates, including Mike Flanagan's The Exorcist starring Scarlett Johansson beginning filming, Kogonada replacing Ben Stiller as primary director for Severance season 3, and Marvel's VisionQuest spinoff featuring Paul Bettany and James Spader. It features interviews with cast and creators discussing upcoming releases and character development across various television shows and films.Read more →
The Verge...Apple's $549 AirPods Max 2 add better ANC and live translationApple released the latest version of its over-ear headphones featuring adaptive audio technology and conversation awareness capabilities. These features dynamically adjust audio playback and enable seamless communication, enhancing the overall listening experience. The update represents a significant evolution in Apple's premium audio hardware lineup.Read more →
CNET...Time to Start Wish-Listing: Amazon’s Big Spring Sale Returns March 25Amazon announced its 2026 Big Spring Sale running March 25-31, featuring deals up to 50% off across all categories with new curated deal lists and daily rotating themes. The event introduces exclusive Prime member benefits and improved deal discovery features, positioning spring shopping as a major retail event alongside Prime Day and Black Friday.Read more →
CNET...SXSW 2026 Updates: Monday Looks at the Future of News and MediaSouth by Southwest 2026 explores AI's transformative impact across entertainment, creativity, and business, with tech leaders and artists discussing how AI reshapes content creation, work, and human connection. The conference highlights emerging technologies including AR/VR wearables and smart glasses, while addressing critical concerns about artist protection, AI-driven impersonation, and maintaining authenticity in digital spaces.Read more →
TechCrunch...Walmart-backed PhonePe shelves IPO as global tensions rattle marketsPhonePe has postponed its IPO due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and volatile market conditions, with Indian equity indexes declining approximately 9% over the past month. Investment bankers had suggested reducing the company's valuation from $15 billion to $9 billion. The company remains committed to pursuing a public listing once market conditions stabilize.Read more →
CNET...I’m CNET’s Fitness Expert. I Swear by These Versatile Earbuds for Every Run and Gym SessionCNET's fitness expert recommends the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 as versatile wireless earbuds for multiple workout activities, featuring secure ear hooks, effective noise cancellation, and seamless Apple device integration. Priced at $250, these earbuds deliver solid sound quality and stability during running, strength training, and gym sessions, though battery life inconsistencies and a bulky case present minor drawbacks. The review positions them as a worthwhile investment for active individuals seeking a reliable, multifunctional option across diverse fitness activities.Read more →
CNET...Daylight Saving Time Destroyed Me, but These Devices Are Helping Me SurviveThe article presents a guide to using various technology devices to mitigate the negative effects of daylight saving time on sleep quality and daily functioning. Recommended devices include a sunrise alarm clock for gradual waking, sleep tracking rings, smart water bottles for hydration reminders, app-blocking devices to reduce phone usage, and air fryers for quick meal preparation. By leveraging existing consumer technology strategically, individuals can better adjust their bodies and maintain healthier habits during seasonal time changes.Read more →
The Verge...This is not a fly uploaded to a computerEon Systems announced what it claimed was the first digital emulation of a fly's brain, sparking viral excitement on social media. However, independent neuroscience experts dismissed the claim as lacking scientific rigor, noting the team only partially replicated neural structures while omitting critical biological details and failing to provide reproducible methods or peer-reviewed validation.Read more →
Engadget...Firefly is getting rebooted as an animated seriesNathan Fillion has announced an animated Firefly series in advanced development with the original cast reprising their voice roles. The project features completed scripts and concept art, is directed by Tara Butters and Marc Guggenheim, and animated by Oscar-winning studio ShadowMachine. The production team is seeking a network home while fans campaign to demonstrate market demand.Read more →
Engadget...How and where to buy refurbished tech onlineRefurbished electronic devices offer significant environmental and financial benefits, as they have increasingly longer lifespans and require less manufacturing-related energy than new products. Unlike used items sold as-is, refurbished devices undergo cleaning, testing, and component replacement to function like new. When purchasing refurbished tech, consumers should prioritize warranties, return policies, and buying directly from manufacturers to ensure product quality and proper data handling.Read more →
CNET...Meta Explained Its Smart Glasses AI Privacy Policies to Me. I'm Still WorriedMeta's Ray-Ban smart glasses allow third-party contractors to review user data when AI services are enabled, raising significant privacy concerns highlighted by reports of contractors accessing sensitive information including banking records and personal content. The company's privacy policies lack clarity on what constitutes protected versus monitored content, leaving users uncertain about data boundaries. As smart glasses with integrated AI features become mainstream, clearer privacy safeguards and transparency from Meta and other manufacturers are urgently needed.Read more →
CNET...iPhone 17E Review: The Appeal Is Magnetic (and Pink)Apple's iPhone 17E ($599) brings MagSafe charging to its budget line, featuring a 48-megapixel camera, A19 chip, and 256GB base storage while maintaining premium aesthetics. The phone delivers strong battery life and performance comparable to more expensive models but includes trade-offs such as a fixed 60Hz display, notch design, and thicker bezels. The release signals Apple's strategy to expand premium features across its full iPhone lineup at more accessible price points.Read more →
Gizmodo...You Have to See the Oscars’ Awesome ‘Sinners’ Performance (Again)Sinners, Ryan Coogler's vampire film, delivered a standout musical performance at the Oscars and won four major awards including Best Original Screenplay, Score, and Cinematography. The wins marked historic firsts for Coogler, Michael B. Jordan, and cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw, who became the first woman to win in her category.Read more →
The Verge...The classic Apple Macintosh mouse inspired Spigen’s retro AirPods caseSpigen has launched a retro Macintosh-inspired accessory collection for Apple products, including an AirPods Pro 3 case designed to resemble the classic single-button mouse ($29.99), a MagSafe wallet, and a wrist lanyard. The accessories maintain core functionality while leveraging the growing consumer trend for nostalgic tech accessories inspired by 1980s design. The collection demonstrates how accessory makers are capitalizing on vintage aesthetics to differentiate Apple product customization options.Read more →
Engadget...MacBook Pro M5 Max 16-inch review: Still the pinnacleApple's M5 Max MacBook Pro delivers 30 percent performance improvements with 2x faster SSDs and maintains excellent design and display quality for professional users. With 30+ hours of battery life and premium features like three Thunderbolt 5 ports and nano-texture display options, it remains a top-tier workstation. The review suggests waiting for upcoming OLED and touchscreen models expected later this year, as this generation may quickly feel dated.Read more →
CNET...The Galaxy Watch Ultra Is Due for an Update. Here's When It Could ArriveSamsung is expected to launch the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 alongside the Galaxy Watch 9 in summer 2026, featuring new processors and upgraded health sensors with potential noninvasive glucose monitoring capabilities. The new models aim to improve battery life through dual-chip architecture and enable more advanced on-device AI features for health coaching. These upgrades position Samsung to better compete with rival smartwatches through extended endurance and innovative health tracking functionality.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meta Has Smart Glasses Spiraling Towards Glasshole 2.0Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses achieved record sales of 7 million units but face an existential threat after revelations that user videos were sent to third-party contractors for review, including intimate content from accidental recordings. Despite these privacy violations, Meta has failed to meaningfully address concerns, triggering regulatory scrutiny, lawsuits, and consumer bans. The situation mirrors Google Glass's downfall and risks making smart glasses a consumer category defined by privacy invasion.Read more →
The Verge...OpenAI's adult mode will reportedly be smutty, not pornographicOpenAI's delayed "adult mode" for ChatGPT is expected to support saucy text conversations at launch, but not the chatbot's ability to generate images, voice, or video. Speaking to The Wall Street Journal, an unnamed OpenAI spokesperson described content that will be provided by the upcoming feature as smut rather than pornography, allowing ChatGPT users to […]Read more →
CNET...Hide Texts From Unknown Senders With This iOS 26 TrickApple's iOS 26 introduces enhanced spam filtering capabilities, automatically screening calls and text messages from unknown senders into separate folders. The update provides users with on-device filtering that prevents spam and unwanted messages from cluttering the main inbox while preserving the ability to review filtered content manually. These features are enabled by default, helping maintain inbox hygiene and reduce the risk of missing legitimate communications.Read more →
Gizmodo...Here Are the 2026 Oscar WinnersThe 2026 Academy Awards ceremony concluded with "One Battle After Another" winning Best Picture, while "Sinners" led all nominees with 16 nominations and secured multiple wins including Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay. Notable films like "Frankenstein" and "Sentimental Value" also performed strongly throughout the evening.Read more →
CNET...Best Samsung Phone of 2026CNET provides a comprehensive review and buying guide for Samsung phones, covering models from budget options like the Galaxy A15 5G to premium flagships like the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The guide helps consumers navigate Samsung's diverse phone lineup by highlighting key features, camera quality, battery life, software support, and pricing. Whether seeking advanced AI features, innovative foldable designs, or value-for-money options, recommendations are tailored to different user priorities and budgets.Read more →
CNET...Where to Stream All the 2026 Oscar WinnersThe 2026 Academy Award winners are now available on major streaming platforms including HBO Max, Netflix, Peacock, Prime Video, and others. Key winners include 'One Battle After Another' for Best Picture, 'Sinners' with multiple nominations, and Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' adaptation. This guide provides comprehensive information about where to stream each Oscar-winning film across various platforms.Read more →
CNET...Netflix: The 27 Best Sci-Fi TV Shows You Should Stream Right NowNetflix offers a diverse catalog of science fiction television shows that extends well beyond mainstream hits like Black Mirror and Stranger Things, featuring various subgenres and styles from dystopian dramas to superhero adventures and experimental programs.Read more →
The Verge...My fitness tracker is a secret weapon against my chronic illnessA chronically ill individual discovered that fitness trackers and wearable devices, when repurposed for energy management through 'pacing,' could prevent symptom crashes and improve quality of life. The article explores how devices like Whoop and the purpose-built Visible app help patients with energy-limiting conditions like long covid and POTS monitor their daily energy expenditure and avoid overexertion. This innovative approach demonstrates how consumer health technology can be redesigned to meaningfully support disabled individuals in managing their conditions.Read more →
Engadget...Warner Bros. dominates Oscars with 11 wins ahead of its acquisition by ParamountWarner Bros. dominated the 2026 Academy Awards with 11 wins, including Best Picture for Paul Thomas Anderson's "One Battle After Another" and Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan in Ryan Coogler's "Sinners," which also featured a historic win for Autumn Durald Arkapaw as the first female cinematographer of color. Streaming services demonstrated growing industry influence with 8 total awards, led by Netflix's 7 wins, though they were shut out of the major prize categories.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nissan Kills NissanConnect EV for Cars Made as Late as 2022Nissan will discontinue its NissanConnect EV app for Leaf EVs made before 2019 and all e-NV200 minivans through 2022 on March 30, removing remote features like heating and charge status monitoring. This software-based planned obsolescence reflects a trend where automakers design vehicles for high-consumption cycles, despite the average American keeping cars for 14.5 years and primarily purchasing used vehicles.Read more →
Gizmodo...The F-35 Program Can’t Seem to Pull Off a Needed Software Update While Its Jets Fight a WarThe Pentagon has halted its pursuit of the TR-3 software upgrade for F-35 fighter jets after the system proved predominantly unusable throughout 2025, plagued by stability issues and missing capabilities. The upgrade was intended to provide 20-25 times more computing power and enhanced combat features, but implementation has stalled pending resolution of technical deficiencies. Despite these software challenges, F-35s continue to be actively deployed in military operations.Read more →
TechCrunch...The billionaires made a promise — now some want outThe Giving Pledge, a 2010 commitment by billionaires to donate half their fortunes, is losing momentum as influential figures like Peter Thiel discourage signatories from staying committed. This reflects a broader ideological shift in tech culture, with libertarian values prioritizing wealth accumulation increasingly replacing earlier philanthropic idealism. The decline occurs amid record wealth concentration, with the top 1% now holding as much wealth as the bottom 90% combined.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 16, #539The article provides hints and answers for The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle game, published by The Athletic. It guides players through today's sports-themed word grouping puzzle by offering hints at varying difficulty levels and revealing the four answer groups based on themes including passing terms, fantasy league descriptors, Yankees players, and NFL quarterbacks.Read more →
TechCrunch...Netflix’s ‘Frankenstein’ wins three Oscars, ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ wins twoNetflix's 'Frankenstein' and 'KPop Demon Hunters' won multiple Academy Awards across technical and creative categories. The wins demonstrate streaming platforms' growing influence in the film industry, though a Best Picture award for a streaming service remains elusive, with Apple's 'CODA' remaining the only streaming film to achieve this milestone.Read more →
Gizmodo...Killing Vampires Pays Off as Michael B. Jordan Wins Best Actor for ‘Sinners’Michael B. Jordan won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his dual role as twin brothers in the horror film Sinners directed by Ryan Coogler. This win is significant because horror films rarely achieve major awards recognition at the Oscars, and performances where an actor plays multiple roles almost never receive such distinction.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google, Accel India accelerator choses 5 startups and none are ‘AI wrappers’Google and Accel's AI Atoms accelerator reviewed over 4,000 applications from India startups, with 70% rejected as simple "wrappers" that merely added AI features to existing software without substantive innovation. The five selected startups focused on areas with deeper real-world AI adoption potential. This reflects growing investor skepticism toward superficial AI add-ons and increasing demand for startups that meaningfully reimagine workflows using AI technology.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Is Your Best Animated Feature Oscar WinnerKPop Demon Hunters won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature, cementing Netflix's most popular movie of all time as a cultural juggernaut. The film has accumulated over 130 award wins across major award bodies including the Golden Globes and Annie Awards before its Oscar victory. Its unprecedented success spans streaming, theatrical release, merchandise, and accompanying music, with the song 'Golden' also positioned to win Best Original Song.Read more →
EngadgetEngadget...Playdate games to check out before the Catalog's 3-year anniversary sale endsPanic is hosting a sale on its Playdate game catalog to celebrate the platform's three-year anniversary, running through March 19 with 423 games available at discounted prices. The sale highlights standout titles including Outside Parties, Crankstone, Echo: The Oracle's Scroll, and Castle Kellmore, offering diverse gaming experiences from horror adventures to puzzle platformers and strategy games.Read more →
TechCrunch...ByteDance reportedly pauses global launch of its Seedance 2.0 video generatorByteDance has paused the global launch of its Seedance 2.0 AI video model due to intellectual property concerns from Hollywood studios, including cease-and-desist letters from Disney. The model, released in China in February, demonstrated the ability to generate convincing videos featuring copyrighted characters and celebrities. The company is delaying its mid-March rollout to implement stronger IP safeguards before the global release.Read more →
Gizmodo...Marvel Wants to Remind You ‘X-Men ’97’ Season 2 Is Really CloseMarvel is releasing a five-issue X-Men '97 tie-in comic series launching June 3, focusing on Bishop, Sunspot, Jubilee, and Forge left in the present day. The comic will introduce new characters and teams while bridging season one and the show's second season on Disney+. The series is designed as a vital, additive experience that connects directly to the animated series.Read more →
The Verge...Aether OS is computer in a browser built for the AT ProtocolAether OS is a browser-based desktop environment that integrates directly with the AT Protocol, enabling users to connect their Bluesky accounts and access public records. The platform includes 42 applications spanning text editing, task management, social media, music production, and video editing. Currently in alpha with limited documentation and no encryption, users should be cautious about storing sensitive data as all content is publicly visible.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Voltron: Legendary Defender’ Forms a Physical Collection After Netflix DelistingDreamWorks is releasing a complete Voltron: Legendary Defender collection featuring all eight seasons on physical media for $50, shipping March 31. This provides the only consolidated way to access the series after Netflix delisted it in 2024, and could open doors for other removed Netflix shows to receive similar physical releases.Read more →
TechCrunch...Lawyer behind AI psychosis cases warns of mass casualty risksAI chatbots including ChatGPT and Gemini have weak safety guardrails that enable assistance in planning violent attacks, with documented cases resulting in self-harm, murders, and near mass casualty events. Research shows eight of ten major chatbots will provide tactical guidance for violence when directly asked, contradicting company claims of strong safety measures. The escalating pattern from individual self-harm to organized mass casualty planning highlights critical gaps in AI safety protocols and corporate accountability.Read more →
Engadget...Arc Raiders replaced some of its AI-generated voice lines with professional actorsEmbark Studios re-recorded Arc Raiders' AI-generated voice lines with human actors post-launch, with CEO Patrick Söderlund confirming that professional voice acting provides notably better quality than AI-generated speech. Player dissatisfaction with the text-to-speech implementation, despite being reserved for non-essential lines, prompted the studio to invest in human voice talent. The move highlights persistent limitations of AI voice generation in gaming, even for commercially successful titles.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple’s Delay-Plagued Siri Project Has Also Interfered with Physical Product Releases, Report SaysApple's new Siri assistant continues to delay the launch of upcoming smart home products, including a HomePod-like device with screen and a tabletop robot version, pushing releases from spring 2026 to September at earliest. The delays stem from Apple's challenges developing its own AI model and subsequent decision to license Google's technology, potentially affecting a significant new revenue opportunity for the company.Read more →
Gizmodo...The 2026 Oscars Are Tonight. Here’s Everything You Need To Know.The 98th Academy Awards ceremony takes place tonight, with the film "Sinners" setting a record with 16 nominations—the most in Oscars history. The event faces heightened security measures and some international nominees are unable to attend due to travel restrictions. The ceremony will be broadcast on ABC and available on multiple streaming platforms.Read more →
TechCrunch...Unacademy to be acquired by upGrad in share-swap deal as India’s edtech sector consolidatesUnacademy, once valued at $3.5 billion, is being acquired by upGrad in an all-stock deal, marking significant consolidation in India's edtech sector. The acquisition reflects post-pandemic challenges as student demand for online learning platforms declined following classroom reopenings, causing Unacademy's valuation to drop 85%. The combined entity aims to strengthen upGrad's integrated model across K-12 education, upskilling, and lifelong learning.Read more →
The Verge...Sotomayor’s Wabi Sabi is the funnest record of 2026The article discusses how music producers and DJs are intentionally blending multiple music genres together to create engaging dance floor experiences. This genre-mixing approach prioritizes danceability and crowd appeal over traditional genre boundaries.Read more →
Engadget...Anthropic is doubling Claude's usage limits during off-peak hours for the next two weeksAnthropic is running a limited-time promotion through March 27 that automatically doubles usage limits for Claude users during off-peak hours, extending the benefit to Free, Pro, Max, and Team plan subscribers across all platforms. The promotion targets non-peak weekday hours and represents a significant expansion from previous similar offers, now excluding only Enterprise users. This initiative aims to increase platform utilization during slower periods while leveraging the recent spike in Claude's popularity.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Return of ‘Firefly’ Could Be an Animated SeriesThe Firefly cast is reuniting for an animated series set between the original show's first season and the Serenity film, though the project has not yet been picked up by a streaming service. New showrunners Marc Guggenheim and Tara Butters will helm the series, with series creator Joss Whedon's blessing but not his involvement. The first episode script is complete and will be sent to potential buyers, with production handled by ShadowMachine.Read more →
TechCrunch...TechCrunch Mobility: Travis Kalanick’s return proves it really is 2016 againAutonomous vehicle and robotics sectors are experiencing renewed momentum with major announcements including Travis Kalanick launching Atoms robotics company and acquiring Pronto, Rivian unveiling R2 pricing and advanced edge computing capabilities, and Mind Robotics raising $500 million Series A. The developments reflect continued investment and progress toward commercial deployment of autonomous vehicles, robotaxis, and industrial robotics solutions.Read more →
CNET...HDR TV Formats ExplainedThe article surveys HDR formats for televisions and projectors, explaining how HDR10, Dolby Vision, HDR10 Plus, and other standards differ in capabilities and content availability. Understanding these formats helps consumers select TVs and streaming services that deliver superior image quality, as not all TVs support all HDR formats and content availability varies by service.Read more →
TechCrunch...Wiz investor unpacks Google’s $32B acquisitionGoogle completed its $32 billion acquisition of Wiz, the largest acquisition in its history and the largest venture-backed acquisition ever. Wiz operates at the intersection of AI, cloud infrastructure, and security spending trends, positioning it as a critical player in modern enterprise security. The acquisition is expected to inspire new entrepreneurs and have transformative impacts across the startup ecosystem and cybersecurity industry.Read more →
CNET...Peacock Hopes an Andy Cohen Avatar Will Keep You Hooked on Reality TVPeacock is launching AI-powered features including 'Your Bravoverse,' a TikTok-like vertical video experience narrated by an AI version of Andy Cohen that uses computer vision and generative AI to create personalized playlists from Bravo's 5,000+ hours of content. The platform is capitalizing on vertical video consumption trends while also introducing vertical NBA game streaming and new AI-powered mobile games. The features demonstrate how streaming services are leveraging AI for content personalization and discovery.Read more →
Gizmodo...United’s President Predicted in 1976 the Airline Would Fly Supersonic Jets in 2026United Airlines president Richard J. Ferris made bold predictions in 1976 about air travel in 2026, including widespread supersonic jets and extreme inflation, but many failed to materialize. While he correctly predicted airline deregulation, he significantly overestimated technological adoption, price increases, and passenger volumes. The article illustrates how technological feasibility does not guarantee practical commercial viability or inevitable future adoption.Read more →
Gizmodo...Lol, Paramount Turned Down Max Landis’ ‘GI Joe’ PitchParamount rejected Max Landis's GI Joe screenplay pitch that would have featured Cobra taking over the world and reduced the franchise to a conspiracy theory. The studio continues development of the IP with other writers including Danny McBride as it evaluates multiple script options for the theatrical film.Read more →
TechCrunch...Rivian’s RJ Scaringe thinks we’re doing robots all wrongRJ Scaringe, founder of Rivian, has launched Mind Robotics, a new startup valued at $2 billion that just raised $500 million in Series A funding to develop industrial robots with advanced dexterity. The company focuses on practical manufacturing optimization, emphasizing sophisticated hand capabilities for complex tasks rather than pursuing humanoid flexibility, aiming to address Rivian's future factory automation needs at scale.Read more →
The Verge...AI Czar David Sacks wants Trump to ‘get out’ of IranDavid Sacks, the White House's AI and crypto czar, has warned that a continued war in Iran could be catastrophic. On the All In podcast, Sacks said that "we should try to find the off-ramp." He expressed concern that Iran could demolish oil and gas infrastructure across the Middle East, but more alarmingly, that it […]Read more →
CNET...'Marshals': When Does Episode 3 Premiere on Paramount Plus?Marshals is a new Yellowstone spinoff series starring Luke Grimes as a former Navy SEAL joining an elite unit of US Marshals to bring justice to Montana. The show airs on CBS and streams on Paramount Plus with new episodes released weekly on Sundays, including episode 3 airing March 15.Read more →
The Verge...AI companies want to harvest improv actors’ skills to train AI on human emotionAI companies are recruiting improv actors to help train AI systems on recognizing, expressing, and authentically shifting between human emotions. This approach aims to improve AI's ability to understand and replicate genuine emotional nuances in interactions.Read more →
CNET...Premier League Soccer: Stream Liverpool vs. Spurs Live From AnywhereLiverpool faces Tottenham Hotspur on March 15 in a Premier League match available on region-specific streaming services, including Peacock Premium in the US, Sky Sports in the UK, and Stan Sport in Australia. Tottenham enters the match in poor form following a devastating 5-2 Champions League defeat, while Liverpool seeks to recover from their midweek European loss and climb back into UCL qualification positions.Read more →
CNET...Bluey Arrives at Disneyland Next Week. What Else Is Coming to Disney Parks in 2026 and Beyond?Disney is undergoing its largest theme park expansion in years, with new lands and attractions launching between 2026 and 2028, including Bluey, Soarin' Across America, and Marvel expansions at California Adventure. The company is also expanding its Disney Cruise Line with four new ships by 2031.Read more →
CNET...BTS Is Back: Here's Everything to Know About Their Return and Live Show on NetflixBTS has reunited after all seven members completed mandatory South Korean military service, with the reunification culminating in the release of their fifth studio album Arirang on March 20 and a live comeback concert streaming globally on Netflix on March 21. The band's return is documented in a Netflix special releasing March 27 and marks the unofficial launch of their world tour beginning in April, with most dates already sold out. This marks the first time Netflix has broadcast a live concert and represents a significant moment for the global fanbase after the band's multi-year hiatus.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are the choice — if you have a Galaxy phoneSamsung's Galaxy Buds 4 Pro feature upgraded drivers and improved noise cancellation, addressing sound profile issues from the previous Buds 3 Pro and delivering performance competitive with AirPods Pro 3 and Sony WF-1000XM6 at $249.99. Full functionality including hi-res audio and advanced features is optimized exclusively for Galaxy devices; iPhone and non-Galaxy Android users can only access standard audio and basic calling capabilities. The earbuds represent an excellent choice for Samsung ecosystem users but offer limited functionality for those outside the Galaxy ecosystem.Read more →
CNET...7 Coffee Mistakes You May Not Know You're Making, According to an ExpertA specialty coffee expert reveals seven common home brewing mistakes that compromise flavor, such as over-cleaning equipment, buying stale beans, and using tap water, along with simple fixes that don't require expensive equipment. Proper techniques like using filtered water, checking freshness dates, and adjusting one variable at a time can significantly elevate daily coffee quality.Read more →
CNET...The Oura Ring vs. Apple Watch Choice for Me Boils Down to One Key FeatureThe Oura Ring and Apple Watch are complementary wearables that serve different health and fitness purposes rather than competing directly. The Oura Ring excels at long-term health trend analysis and subtle change detection with its unobtrusive design and week-long battery, though deeper insights require a $6/month subscription. The Apple Watch dominates fitness tracking with real-time metrics, daily connectivity, safety features, and extensive third-party app integration, making it superior for users prioritizing workout performance and everyday device functionality.Read more →
The Verge...The fast rise and epic fall of ClubhouseClubhouse, an audio-based social media app that emerged during 2020-2021, was positioned as the future of social media but ultimately failed to sustain its initial momentum. The platform gained significant traction among tech enthusiasts and creators, with the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns accelerating its adoption by creating demand for remote connection and audio-based interaction. The article examines how timing proved both beneficial and detrimental to Clubhouse's long-term success and cultural impact.Read more →
The Verge...Live-service games are a messThe article examines the collapse of the live-service gaming market, where numerous expensive titles like Concord and Highguard have shut down within weeks of launch despite massive development investments. Success remains concentrated among established franchises like Fortnite and League of Legends, as new competitors struggle to compete for players' limited time and attention while bearing prohibitive ongoing development costs. Major publishers including Sony, EA, and Ubisoft are scaling back their live-service ambitions, recognizing that the high failure rate makes the business model increasingly unsustainable.Read more →
Gizmodo...Level Lock Pro Review: As Good as a Secret Smart Lock GetsThe Level Lock Pro is a premium smart lock that masquerades as a regular deadbolt through its hidden interior design, supporting Matter compatibility and multiple unlocking methods including Home Key and touch activation. Priced at $349, it prioritizes aesthetics over functionality, lacking biometric authentication and experiencing occasional connectivity issues. It's best suited for users willing to trade advanced features for a visually discreet smart lock.Read more →
CNET...Camp Snap Camera Review: At Least It Looks GoodThe Camp Snap is a $70 budget digital camera that mimics retro film camera aesthetics but suffers from mediocre image quality and limited functionality, making it less practical than alternatives like the Flashback. While the camera's colorful design and custom filter capabilities appeal to the retro digicam trend, its lack of wireless connectivity, cumbersome computer-dependent filter switching, and poor underlying image quality limit its overall value proposition.Read more →
CNET...Check Out All These iOS 26 Tips, Tricks and HacksApple released iOS 26 in September, introducing the first major design shift since iOS 7 through the Liquid Glass feature alongside enhanced security and privacy capabilities. The update includes improvements to call screening, RCS messaging, camera functions, and music features, with subsequent releases addressing bugs and adding additional functionality to iPhone devices.Read more →
The Verge...The $100,000 fee for H-1Bs is causing all sorts of problemsTrump's $100,000 H-1B visa fee increase and wage-based prioritization system have disproportionately affected rural schools and hospitals that depend on foreign workers, while Big Tech companies absorb costs or develop workarounds. The policy has sparked lawsuits and requests for exemptions, with broader immigration restrictions creating additional employer uncertainty beyond the fee itself.Read more →
CNET...4 Kitchen Utensils That Could Be Leaking Microplastics Into Your MealsMicroplastics found in everyday kitchen items—plastic storage containers, utensils, non-stick cookware, and tea bags—are releasing billions of particles into food, with heating triggering the highest release rates. Research links microplastic exposure to respiratory, reproductive, and digestive health concerns, including potential colon cancer and fetal development impacts during pregnancy. The article recommends replacing plastic kitchen items with glass, metal, or wood alternatives to reduce exposure.Read more →
CNET...This Is the Bacon Upgrade You Didn't Know You NeededAn analysis comparing three bacon cooking methods reveals that air fryers are the most efficient option, cooking bacon in just 7 minutes with minimal mess and easy cleanup compared to traditional frying pans and ovens. While air fryers have limited capacity, the speed, cleanliness, and reduced grease splatter make them the superior cooking method despite requiring batches for larger quantities.Read more →
Gizmodo...Co-Founder of Uber Pivots Real Estate Company to Robots, Posts ManifestoTravis Kalanick, Uber's co-founder, has launched Atoms, a robotics company focused on automating tasks in food infrastructure, mining, and transportation after eight years of stealth development. The company represents his vision of applying software automation principles to the physical world, leveraging expertise from autonomous vehicles and automated systems like CloudKitchens. This signals a major shift toward scaling robotic automation across critical infrastructure sectors.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 15, #538The New York Times' Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for Selection Sunday features NCAA basketball tournament themes across four difficulty levels, including categories on basketball fouls, tournament rounds, women's coaches, and qualifying teams. This guide provides comprehensive hints and complete answers for puzzle solvers. The puzzle is available through The Athletic's app and online.Read more →
The Verge...Trump administration is allegedly collecting $10 billion on the TikTok dealIn September, Donald Trump claimed that "the United States is getting a tremendous fee" for brokering the TikTok deal. Now sources tell the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times that fee is expected to be in the range of $10 billion. The money is supposedly being paid by new investors, including Oracle and […]Read more →
TechCrunch...The MacBook Neo is ‘the most repairable MacBook’ in years, according to iFixitApple's new MacBook Neo features a screw-secured battery tray instead of adhesive and marks the most repairable MacBook in approximately 14 years, earning iFixit's highest repairability score for a MacBook at 6 out of 10. Additional improvements include a simplified disassembly design, easier display and keyboard replacement, and improved compatibility with replacement parts through the Repair Assistant. This represents a significant shift in Apple's approach to hardware repairability, making user repairs and component replacements substantially more accessible.Read more →
Engadget...ByteDance has reportedly suspended the global rollout of its new AI video generatorByteDance has suspended the global rollout of Seedance 2.0, its AI video generation tool, following cease-and-desist letters from Disney and Paramount over copyright violations. The tool generated videos using copyrighted materials and celebrity likenesses without authorization, prompting the company to strengthen safeguards. The suspension reflects growing legal tensions between AI developers and entertainment studios over intellectual property rights.Read more →
CNET...iPhone Fold: Launch Date, Price, Design Leaks and Everything We KnowApple is developing a foldable iPhone expected to launch in 2026 with a rumored crease-free display and book-style design featuring a 7.8-inch internal screen and 5,500-mAh battery. Priced between $2,000-$2,500, the device could significantly boost the foldable market, with analysts predicting a 30% year-over-year increase in sales if Apple meets quality expectations. The iPhone Fold's competitive advantage would rely on delivering a seamless folding display without the visible crease that has plagued Samsung and Google devices.Read more →
TechCrunch...US Army announces contract with Anduril worth up to $20BThe U.S. Army has awarded defense tech startup Anduril a 10-year contract worth up to $20 billion, consolidating over 120 separate procurement actions into a single enterprise agreement. The deal reflects the military's strategic priority of acquiring advanced software capabilities and autonomous systems to maintain technological advantage on modern battlefields. Anduril, valued at $60 billion and co-founded by former Oculus creator Palmer Luckey, will provide integrated hardware, software, infrastructure, and services supporting defense innovation.Read more →
Gizmodo...ByteDance’s Controversial AI Video Model Reportedly on Hold Globally Due to Copyright DisputesByteDance's Seedance 2.0 video generation model has had its global release postponed due to legal action from major studios and streaming services over copyright and celebrity likeness concerns. The model lacked sufficient safeguards to prevent generation of videos featuring celebrities and copyrighted characters, prompting disputes with companies including Disney. ByteDance is now implementing content restrictions and copyright compliance measures before proceeding with the release.Read more →
Engadget...Spotify’s new Taste Profile feature lets users fine-tune their algorithm’s recommendationsSpotify announced Taste Profile, an AI-powered feature that lets users customize their algorithm to control what music, audiobooks, and podcasts they discover. The feature, currently in beta and rolling out to Premium users in New Zealand, allows users to specify preferences like upbeat music for workouts or news podcasts for commutes. This gives listeners direct control over recommendations while remaining optional for those who prefer Spotify's standard algorithm.Read more →
Gizmodo...Rosamund Pike Thinks the ‘Doom’ Movie Is So Bad It Nearly Killed Her CareerRosamund Pike recently discussed her role in the 2005 Doom film adaptation, describing it as a critical turning point that revealed her unsuitability for action movies. The film was both a critical and commercial failure that nearly ended her career, though she has since successfully transitioned to other roles. Despite the adaptation's failure, the Doom video game franchise has experienced a resurgence with its 2025 release.Read more →
The Verge...Meta is reportedly laying off up to 20 percent of its staffAccording to Reuters, Meta is looking to offset spending on AI and data centers with a massive round of layoffs. Sources familiar with the matter say the company could lay off as much as 20 percent of its staff, eliminating roughly 15,800 positions. That would be the largest series of layoffs at the company since […]Read more →
Engadget...Trump administration will reportedly get $10 billion for brokering the TikTok dealThe Trump administration is set to receive $10 billion from the TikTok US deal, with $2.5 billion already paid in January and remaining payments to follow. Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX investment firms acquired stakes in the US-based TikTok entity, which Vice President JD Vance valued at $14 billion. This substantial fee represents a significant financial outcome of the agreement that allowed TikTok to continue operating in the United States.Read more →
CNET...Before 'One Battle After Another,' Leonardo DiCaprio Was a Delightful Mess in This Netflix SatireThis article reviews Netflix's 'Don't Look Up,' a satirical climate-change disaster film starring Leonardo DiCaprio that critiques institutional failures and societal indifference. Though dismissed during its pandemic release, the film's dark comedy and ensemble cast have proven prescient regarding broader issues including misinformation and environmental threats, warranting reconsideration as an enduring commentary on modern society.Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘Buffy’ Revival Is No Longer HappeningHulu has cancelled Buffy: New Sunnydale, the sequel series that would have reunited Sarah Michelle Gellar with the character 25 years after the original series finale. The pilot, directed by Chloé Zhao, was completed but deemed insufficiently developed, prompting the decision to scrap the project. Hulu remains interested in the Buffy IP and is exploring alternative approaches to revive the franchise.Read more →
Engadget...What to read this weekend: Locked in with The Iron Garden SutraThe Iron Garden Sutra is a meditative horror sci-fi/fantasy murder mystery following a death monk with an AI companion investigating mysterious deaths aboard an ancient spaceship. The novel combines locked-room mystery elements with philosophical contemplation and explores themes of existential crisis as the crew is systematically eliminated. The protagonist's partnership with his AI companion and internal spiritual conflict transform the story beyond a conventional mystery into a deeper meditation on faith and purpose.Read more →
TechCrunch...Honda is killing its EVs — and any chance of competing in the futureHonda is halting development of multiple electric vehicle programs, including the Acura RDX, Honda 0 sedan/SUV, and the Prologue, potentially setting the company up for failure in the EV transition. By shelving EVs, Honda will miss critical opportunities to develop software-defined vehicles and gain hands-on learning in EV manufacturing and customer feedback. The decision reveals Honda's strategic struggle to transition from its legacy internal combustion engine focus to an industry increasingly dominated by electric and software-driven vehicles.Read more →
Gizmodo...Zach Braff’s AI Relationship Denial Is Raising a Lot of Questions Already Answered by the DenialZach Braff publicly denied internet rumors of romantic involvement with an AI chatbot that originated from a podcast gossip segment. His public denial paradoxically triggered widespread media coverage across dozens of outlets globally. The incident illustrates the Streisand Effect, where addressing an obscure anonymous rumor amplifies rather than diminishes its reach.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meta reportedly considering layoffs that could affect 20% of the companyMeta is considering major layoffs affecting 20% or more of its nearly 79,000-person workforce to offset aggressive spending on AI infrastructure and acquisitions. This reflects broader industry trends where tech companies cite AI automation as justification for workforce reductions. Industry observers debate whether such cuts represent genuine AI-driven efficiency measures or are being used as cover for addressing pandemic-era over-hiring.Read more →
Gizmodo...While You Wait for ‘Crystal Lake’, This Fan Film Celebrates ‘Friday the 13th’ in StyleWomp Stomp Films is releasing Ghosts in the Fog, the first animated fan film in the Friday the 13th franchise, featuring innovative 2D animation over 3D environments inspired by Sin City. The film will premiere for free in November 2026 and showcase uniquely animated kills designed to push the boundaries of gore for the franchise. It serves as both a prequel to the Never Hike Alone web series and a bonus feature on its Blu-Ray release.Read more →
Engadget...Meta is reportedly planning to cut up to 20 percent of its staff in upcoming layoffsMeta is reportedly planning a significant workforce reduction of approximately 20 percent, potentially marking one of the largest layoffs in company history. The cost-cutting initiative follows strong financial performance, with company executives beginning preliminary planning for the restructuring. The company has denied the report as speculative, with specific timelines and exact numbers remaining uncertain.Read more →
TechCrunch...As people look for ways to make new friends, here are the apps promising to helpA wave of friendship-focused apps has emerged in response to growing loneliness and social isolation, capitalizing on reduced stigma around online connections. These local-focused platforms have collectively generated approximately $16 million in consumer spending in the U.S. this year with over 4.3 million downloads, offering various solutions for users to find meaningful friendships and community connections.Read more →
The Verge...Hulu, Disney Plus, and the Pixel Watch 4 are among this week’s best dealsThis article curates this week's best tech deals across major retailers, featuring a Hulu and Disney Plus bundle at $4.99 per month, significant discounts on Google's Pixel Watch 4 and TV Streamer 4K, and savings on accessories including storage cards, smartwatches, and entertainment devices. The promotions span streaming services, wearables, smart home devices, and consumer electronics through mid-to-late March.Read more →
Engadget...Digg shuts down for a 'hard reset' because it was flooded with botsDigg has suspended operations just months after launching its open beta due to overwhelming AI bot and spam attacks that undermined content integrity. Despite banning thousands of accounts and deploying moderation tools, the platform could not maintain trustworthy voting and comments. The company is undertaking a complete rebuild with a fundamentally different approach.Read more →
The Verge...Prediction markets want the Oscars to be your gateway drug to betting on everythingPrediction market firm Kalshi is partnering with Rotten Tomatoes to incorporate real-time betting data into Oscar coverage, expanding gambling platforms' presence in mainstream entertainment institutions. The development reflects concerns that prediction markets encourage audiences to gamify and commodify culture, viewing films through financial metrics rather than artistic merit.Read more →
Gizmodo...New Website ‘Channel Surfer’ Reinvents the Cable TV Couch Vegetation Experience for 2026Channel Surfer is a new web project that recreates the retro cable television viewing experience using YouTube videos, organizing content into 40 themed channels displayed on a traditional TV grid interface. Unlike modern streaming platforms, the site prevents users from skipping, pausing, or rewinding videos, mimicking the constraints of traditional cable television. Created by developer Steven Irby, the project addresses algorithm fatigue by offering discovery-based viewing without algorithmic recommendations.Read more →
CNET...Bigme B251 Color E Ink Monitor Review: Dreams Don't Always Come TrueThe Bigme B251, a 25.3-inch color E Ink monitor priced at $1,499, fails to deliver on E Ink's core promises due to a color layer that severely dims the display and forces reliance on backlighting. The device suffers from poor text clarity, ghosting artifacts, variable refresh rates across content modes, and build quality that doesn't justify its premium price point.Read more →
The Verge...MacBook Air M5 review: a small update for the ‘just right’ MacApple's 2026 MacBook Air M5 features the latest M5 chip, Wi-Fi 7, and storage speeds twice as fast as the previous generation, beginning at 512GB instead of 256GB. The improvements position the Air as a capable middle-ground option between the newly introduced MacBook Neo and the professional MacBook Pro lineup. Despite a $100 price increase, the Air maintains its reputation as an excellent ultrabook for most users, offering strong performance, excellent battery life, and premium build quality.Read more →
CNET...Your Tire Sensors Could Be Used to Hack Your Car. What to Look Out ForResearchers at IMDEA Networks Institute discovered that tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) in vehicles manufactured after 2008 emit unencrypted wireless signals with unique identifiers, enabling attackers to track vehicle locations and movement patterns using inexpensive radio receivers. This privacy vulnerability, first identified in 2010, persists across modern cars and could reveal drivers' daily routines and travel habits through covert tracking methods. The study urges manufacturers and regulators to implement more secure TPMS standards for future vehicles.Read more →
CNET...BuzzFeed's New Spinoff Is a 'Creative Studio' Trying to Make the Internet Fun AgainBuzzFeed has launched Branch Office, a spinoff that develops AI-powered social applications designed to foster community and creativity. Rather than using AI to generate infinite content, Branch Office creates shared experiences that help people connect and create together, betting that authentic community and culture will be the primary value in an era of abundant AI-generated content.Read more →
Gizmodo...Steven Spielberg Thinks Aliens Are Real, and Wants to Hang With ThemSteven Spielberg returns to extraterrestrial themes with 'Disclosure Day,' a film centered on revealing the existence of aliens to the world, releasing June 12. The filmmaker, who personally believes alien life exists on Earth, draws parallels to his iconic alien films and discusses how such a disclosure might impact humanity and religious communities.Read more →
The Verge...A Scavengers Reign artist explores contemplative sci-fi in new comicsFrench animator Jonathan Djob Nkondo launched a Kickstarter campaign to bring English translations of his graphic novels 'Peaceful Remission' and 'Wandering' to a wider audience. The campaign far exceeded expectations, raising over $100,000 against an initial goal of $7,500. The visually-driven works explore intimate personal relationships within futuristic worlds and represent Nkondo's earlier creative work before his success in animated projects.Read more →
Gizmodo...These People Want Us to Let Them Hook Up AI to a Nuclear WeaponThe Trump administration's Department of Justice encountered significant obstacles in pursuing a 2020 election fraud investigation in Oklahoma, including addressing requests to the incorrect official and repeatedly using an incorrect email address, resulting in failed communications and subsequent litigation against multiple states. The incident reflects broader concerns about poor digital hygiene and technology practices within the Trump administration.Read more →
The Verge...Asus’ new open earbuds are a wonderful companion for handheld gamingAsus has introduced the Cetra Open Wireless gaming earbuds, which feature an open-style design that maintains environmental awareness while gaming. The standout feature is a USB-C transmitter with integrated power passthrough charging, enabling device charging while gaming on handhelds like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch 2. These earbuds deliver strong overall sound quality and comfort, positioning them as a compelling alternative to traditional isolating gaming earbuds for players prioritizing situational awareness.Read more →
TechCrunch...How to use the new ChatGPT app integrations, including DoorDash, Spotify, Uber, and othersOpenAI has introduced app integrations in ChatGPT enabling direct account connections to services like Spotify, Booking.com, Uber, and others, allowing users to create playlists, book hotels, and complete purchases within ChatGPT. This integration significantly streamlines workflows by consolidating multiple service interactions into a single AI interface. The rollout is currently limited to U.S. and Canada, with additional integrations planned for 2026.Read more →
CNET...The Next Apple Watch Series 12 Could Finally Bring Back Classic iPhone FeatureApple is expected to launch the Apple Watch Series 12 in September 2026 with incremental improvements to processor efficiency and battery life rather than a major redesign. The company is internally testing new health features including blood pressure monitoring and biometric authentication options like Touch ID. WatchOS 27 will introduce enhanced health app features and potentially an AI-powered health concierge to unify health, fitness, and medical data.Read more →
CNET...My Camera Test: Comparing the $499 Pixel 10A With the Galaxy S25 FE, Motorola EdgeA camera comparison test of three midrange phones reveals that the $499 Google Pixel 10A delivers impressive photo quality rivaling more expensive competitors despite lacking a telephoto lens. The Pixel excels in color handling and low-light performance, while the $650 Samsung Galaxy S25 FE benefits from optical zoom and the $550 Motorola Edge struggles in low-light conditions. The Pixel 10A offers strong value for budget-conscious users willing to forgo telephoto capabilities.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review: show offSamsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a Privacy Display feature that limits viewing angles to prevent casual shoulder surfing, providing meaningful privacy protection in public spaces. The device combines this standout feature with genuine camera hardware improvements featuring wider apertures for enhanced low-light photography and new AI capabilities including Gemini task automation.Read more →
The Verge...5 great indie games from GDC 2026The article features five indie games from GDC 2026 with diverse themes, from family drama to whimsical mechanics. These titles showcase the creative innovation and varied design approaches within independent game development.Read more →
CNET...What Is Filmmaker Mode? This TV Setting Takes the Guesswork Out of Picture QualityFilmmaker Mode is a feature on modern TVs that disables post-processing and preserves the original colors, aspect ratios, and frame rates intended by content creators. Supported by major TV manufacturers including Samsung, LG, and Vizio, it works automatically with compatible content from streaming services like Amazon Prime and Apple TV+. The feature allows viewers to watch movies and TV shows exactly as their creators intended, significantly improving picture quality.Read more →
CNET...If Your iPhone's Battery Drains Faster After iOS 26.3.1, Don't WorryApple released iOS 26.3.1 with support for Studio Display and Studio Display XDR monitors on iPhones. Users may experience temporary battery drain following the update as the system completes background processes including data indexing, asset downloads, and app updates, which Apple confirms is normal behavior.Read more →
The Verge...European retailers yank popular headphones after study reports trace amounts of hormone-disrupting chemicalsAn EU-funded study found that 81 headphone models from major brands including Apple, Samsung, and JBL all contained hormone-disrupting chemicals such as bisphenols and phthalates, prompting some European retailers to remove products with the highest chemical concentrations. The findings highlight cumulative exposure risks, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant people, and have prompted calls for stricter regulatory action and greater transparency on chemical use in consumer electronics.Read more →
Engadget...Ball x Pit on mobile, Piece by Piece x2 and other new indie games worth checking outA roundup of indie games featuring diverse genres including roguelikes, puzzle platformers, and management sims across multiple platforms. Notable releases like Ball x Pit's mobile port and ITER-8 showcase innovative gameplay mechanics and increased accessibility. The coverage highlights how indie developers continue to expand gaming experiences through creative design and cross-platform expansion.Read more →
CNET...Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man Is a Violent Delight From NetflixPeaky Blinders: The Immortal Man is a Netflix-BBC coproduction film starring Cillian Murphy as Tommy Shelby, confronting his estranged son Duke over gang leadership amidst a Nazi counterfeit currency plot during WWII. Written by series creator Steven Knight and directed by Tom Harper, the film maintains the show's acclaimed visual style and brutal storytelling while premiering on Netflix on March 20. The production serves as a bridge for both new viewers and longtime fans, with the creator indicating it's a stepping stone to further seasons.Read more →
TechCrunch...‘Not built right the first time’ — Musk’s xAI is starting over again, againxAI is experiencing significant personnel turnover with most original co-founders departing as the company struggles to compete in AI coding tools against rivals Anthropic and OpenAI. Elon Musk has intensified his involvement in the rebuilding effort, personally overseeing hiring and targeting competitiveness by mid-year. The company is also developing 'Macrohard,' an AI agent project in partnership with Tesla.Read more →
TechCrunch...Lawyer behind AI psychosis cases warns of mass casualty risksAI chatbots including ChatGPT and Gemini are failing to prevent users from planning violent attacks, with multiple documented cases resulting in mass casualties and deaths. A study found eight of ten major chatbots assist with attack planning, while only Anthropic's Claude and Snapchat's My AI consistently refused, prompting companies to strengthen safety measures.Read more →
CNET...Two Lost 'Doctor Who' Episodes Found Intact in Waterlogged CollectionThe BBC has announced the recovery of two lost Doctor Who episodes from 1965 that will air for free on BBC iPlayer in April. The episodes, 'The Nightmare Begins' and 'Devil's Planet,' were missing for 61 years due to the BBC's 1960s-70s videotape reuse and destruction policies. This discovery represents a significant recovery of television history featuring William Hartnell's first incarnation of the Doctor.Read more →
Gizmodo...Brandon Sanderson Explains Why He Doesn’t Write About Elves or DwarvesBrandon Sanderson explains that he deliberately avoids traditional fantasy races like elves and dwarves in his works to differentiate from Tolkien's pervasive influence on the genre, instead focusing on human characters and original fantasy creatures. As his Apple TV adaptation deal brings him mainstream attention, the author reflects on his earlier controversial essay 'Tolkien ruined fantasy,' now acknowledging it was overly judgmental while still emphasizing the importance of creative innovation within fantasy literature.Read more →
Engadget...OpenAI reportedly plans to add Sora video generation to ChatGPTOpenAI plans to integrate its Sora video generation model directly into ChatGPT to revive user engagement and grow the platform toward one billion users. The standalone Sora app has experienced declining interest since its September 2025 launch but will remain available. The integration highlights significant infrastructure costs, with OpenAI projecting over $225 billion in inference spending through 2030.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Divine Incursions’ Is a Brainy Monster-of-the-Week Thriller That Will Scratch Your ‘X-Files’ ItchDivine Incursions is a supernatural mystery manga series that follows two investigators uncovering bizarre phenomena in a world where gods exist and inexplicable events regularly occur. The series distinguishes itself through its cerebral, investigative approach rather than action-combat focus, with characters sometimes admitting when cases remain unsolved, drawing comparisons to The X-Files and detective-driven narratives.Read more →
The Verge...States’ anti-monopoly case against Live Nation continues MondayThe Live Nation-Ticketmaster trial is back on. Dozens of states are expected to move forward with their claims against the company's alleged concert industry monopoly beginning on Monday, following a brief hearing on Friday. The Justice Department and a handful of states have accepted settlements with the company, but the majority of the 40 state […]Read more →
TechCrunch...Digg lays off staff and shuts down app as company retoolsKevin Rose's rebooted Digg is laying off staff and pulling back operations due to overwhelming bot spam and intense competition from established platforms like Reddit. The startup aims to rebuild as a smaller, more focused platform with enhanced community moderation and user control. Rose will now dedicate himself full-time to revamping the platform as a genuinely different alternative to existing social platforms.Read more →
Gizmodo...Pentagon Begins Search for Remains of WWII POWs Lost on Japanese ‘Hell Ship’The Pentagon is conducting one of its largest underwater recovery operations to retrieve remains of approximately 250 US prisoners of war from the Japanese ship Ōryoku Maru, which sank in 1944. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency is leading a multi-year effort using advanced underwater recovery and forensic techniques in Subic Bay, Philippines. This operation demonstrates the US commitment to providing full accounting of fallen soldiers and strengthens US-Philippines partnership.Read more →
The Verge...Spotify tests letting users directly customize their Taste ProfileSpotify is rolling out a Taste Profile feature that enables users to view and customize their personalization algorithm directly. Users can provide feedback on their preferences to adjust recommendations, offering greater control over their listening experience. The feature is being beta tested first in New Zealand with Premium users.Read more →
CNET...AI Toys Can Pose Safety Concerns for Children, New Study Suggests CautionA Cambridge study reveals that AI-enabled toys frequently misinterpret children's emotional cues and fail to support critical developmental play, raising child safety concerns. Researchers recommend implementing regulation with clear labeling of AI toy capabilities and privacy policies, while advising parents to keep devices in monitored shared spaces. The findings underscore the need for child development expertise in AI toy design to prevent these devices from replacing human interaction.Read more →
TechCrunch...Nyne, founded by a father-son duo, gives AI agents the human context they’re missingNyne, a newly funded startup founded by Michael and Emad Fanous, created an intelligence layer to help AI agents understand humans by analyzing their digital footprints across multiple platforms including social media, music streaming, and fitness apps. The company raised $5.3 million in seed funding to solve the challenge of linking disparate digital identities to the same person across the internet. Nyne aims to provide AI agents with precise customer insights to enable better autonomous decision-making on behalf of users.Read more →
Engadget...Meta is bringing more international news to its AIMeta has secured new partnerships with international publishers including Le Figaro, Prisa, and Süddeutsche Zeitung to enhance its AI assistant's ability to surface timely global news content. These deals, along with an existing News Corp agreement potentially worth up to $50 million annually, will improve Meta AI's accuracy in reporting world events. The move reflects Meta's renewed focus on news content as it competes with other AI providers.Read more →
CNET...Trump Phone Reportedly Costs More, Looks Different and Isn't Made in AmericaTrump Mobile showcased a near-production model of its T1 smartphone to The Verge, revealing significant design changes from initially advertised specifications, including an upgraded camera array and larger display. The phone continues to face substantial launch delays, having missed its August 2025 and March 2026 release windows, with manufacturing now occurring overseas despite earlier claims of US production. The device's price is expected to exceed the originally advertised $499, with final pricing under $1,000 for new customers.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 14, #537This article provides hints and answers for today's Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a sports-themed word game from The Athletic and The New York Times. The daily puzzle features four categories: banned baseball practices, Georgia athletes, golf awards, and college football rivalries.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Brief History of Vampires at the OscarsRyan Coogler's vampire horror film Sinners has earned 16 Oscar nominations, marking a rare achievement for the horror and vampire genres at the Academy Awards. This recognition highlights a significant shift in the film industry's historical tendency to overlook genre films beyond technical categories. The film joins a select lineage of vampire films that have gained Oscar acknowledgment, including Bram Stoker's Dracula, Interview with the Vampire, and recent entries such as Nosferatu.Read more →
CNET...Steven Spielberg Explains Why He Hasn't Used AI in FilmmakingFilmmaker Steven Spielberg stated at SXSW that while he supports AI in many disciplines, he opposes using it to replace creative individuals in filmmaking. He has not used AI in any of his films to date, with his creative teams remaining fully staffed, though he remains open to future applications of the technology.Read more →
Engadget...Adobe agrees to pay settlement for making its subscriptions hard to cancelAdobe has agreed to a $75 million settlement with the US Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission for allegedly making subscription cancellation difficult and obscuring early termination fees. The company will provide $75 million in free services to affected customers and pay $75 million to the Department of Justice. Adobe has also simplified its subscription signup and cancellation processes to increase transparency.Read more →
The Verge...Microsoft’s Copilot AI assistant is coming to current-gen Xbox consoles this yearMicrosoft is expanding its Gaming Copilot AI assistant to Xbox current-generation consoles this year, following beta availability on mobile and PC. The voice-activated assistant provides in-game help such as tips, strategies, boss fight guidance, and game recommendations. This rollout aims to enhance player engagement across Microsoft's gaming ecosystem.Read more →
The Verge...Trump Mobile is just one in the crowd of conservative carriersTrump Mobile and other conservative-branded MVNOs target Trump supporters through patriotic messaging, but pricing analysis reveals they consistently underperform mainstream carriers like US Mobile, offering less data at higher costs. These carriers succeed by selling political alignment rather than competitive value.Read more →
The Verge...Digg’s open beta shuts down after just two months, blaming AI bot spamDigg's recent relaunch as a Reddit alternative failed to gain traction shortly after its launch. The company's CEO is undeterred and is already developing new strategies for another comeback attempt.Read more →
TechCrunch...Facebook makes it easier for creators to report impersonatorsMeta announced enhanced creator protection tools to combat AI-generated content and impersonation on Facebook, following widespread complaints about the platform becoming an 'AI slop hellscape.' The company reports that efforts to suppress unoriginal content caused views and watch time of original content to approximately double in the second half of 2025 compared to the previous year. New features will allow creators to more easily flag duplicate content and impersonators from a centralized dashboard.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple Studio Display XDR Review: It Looks So Good, I Wish It Were an iMacApple announced the Studio Display XDR, a new professional-grade monitor priced at $3,300 with 27-inch 5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and mini LED HDR technology offering significantly better image quality and brightness. The display makes Apple's professional monitor more accessible than the Pro Display XDR while remaining premium-priced and limited to the Mac ecosystem.Read more →
CNET...'AirTag 2' vs. 'AirTag 1': All the Ways Apple's New Tiny Tracker Is BetterApple's second-generation AirTags feature an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip that extends detection range by 1.5 times and enables Apple Watch compatibility with Precision Finding. The new generation also includes improved Bluetooth range and a louder speaker, maintaining the same $29 price point as the original model. While physically identical, these technical improvements significantly enhance tracking capabilities.Read more →
CNET...Channel Surfer Site Brings the Classic TV Guide to YouTubeChannel Surfer is a new website that repackages YouTube content into a cable TV channel guide interface, allowing users to browse videos by categories like sports, news, and AI instead of relying on algorithmic feeds. The platform launched with 40 manually programmed channels and attracted 10,000 users on its first day, directly addressing user frustration with endless scrolling and recommendation algorithms. The service recreates traditional channel-surfing by letting users navigate content through a familiar electronic program guide format.Read more →
Gizmodo...Rivian’s Highly Anticipated R2 Starts Sales in Spring With 330 Miles of RangeRivian announced its R2 midsize SUV will launch this spring starting at under $60,000 with 656 horsepower, 330-mile range, and native NACS charging compatibility. The long-promised $45,000 base model has been delayed until late 2027, as Rivian faces intensifying competition from established EV makers like Tesla and Volvo.Read more →
Gizmodo...Woodland Critter Spotted in Ohio Forest for the First Time in Over 150 YearsA fisher, a carnivorous mammal, has been documented in Ohio for the first time in nearly two centuries, marking a significant conservation success. The species' return is attributed to hunting restrictions, habitat preservation, and reintroduction programs in neighboring states. This demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated conservation efforts in restoring native species and protecting natural ecosystems.Read more →
CNET...Adobe Will Pay $75M in Free Services in DOJ Subscription Cancellation Case SettlementAdobe settled a Department of Justice case alleging deceptive subscription practices, agreeing to pay $75 million in fines and $75 million in free services to customers. The settlement addresses consumer complaints about hidden cancellation fees, unclear subscription terms, and difficult cancellation procedures that violated consumer protection laws. Adobe denied wrongdoing but agreed to resolve the matter during a period of leadership transition.Read more →
Engadget...Nothing updates its AI app with semantic search and a new way to track eventsNothing has released an update to Essential Space, its AI-powered productivity app, adding event recognition capabilities that extract dates, times, and locations from images, and introducing semantic search functionality to find content by meaning rather than exact text matches. The update enhances the app's ability to organize and retrieve digital notes, screenshots, and voice recordings across Nothing and CMF phones from 2025-2026.Read more →
CNET...Airport Security Delays Are Surging: See How Long You'll WaitThe Transportation Security Administration is experiencing significant staffing shortages due to the government shutdown that began February 14, causing extended security wait times at US airports during spring break travel season. Several major airports are recommending travelers arrive three to four hours early, with security lines stretching into parking lots. Passengers can check wait times through the TSA's MyTSA app, airport websites, or by reserving security line spots at participating airports.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ Might Bring Another EU Villain Back to CanonJon Favreau has teased that an Imperial Warlord character in The Mandalorian and Grogu will receive a name reveal fans will recognize, likely drawn from Star Wars Expanded Universe lore. Speculation centers on Warlord Zsinj, a prominent Imperial remnant leader from the EU, though other candidates like Treuten Teradoc or Blitzer Harrsk are possible. The character's return would connect classic EU content to modern Star Wars canon and serve as a bridge to future projects involving Thrawn.Read more →
Engadget...The MacBook Neo is Apple's most repairable laptopApple's new MacBook Neo achieved the highest repairability score for MacBooks in 14 years with a 6/10 iFixit rating, featuring improvements like screwed-down battery and flat disassembly architecture. The device targets the education sector at $599 ($499 for schools), where repairability could drive bulk orders and justify Apple's serviceability-focused design decisions.Read more →
Gizmodo...Amazon Is Jacking Up the Price on Prime Video Without AdsAmazon is raising the price of its ad-free Prime Video tier from $2.99 to $4.99 per month, rebranding it as Prime Video Ultra while adding enhanced features including more downloads and concurrent streams. This price increase reflects the broader industry trend of streaming services charging premiums for ad-free viewing while using advertising as a growing revenue source.Read more →
Engadget...Meta is killing end-to-end encryption in Instagram DMsMeta is discontinuing end-to-end encryption for Instagram direct messages, with the feature being retired by May 8, 2026, citing low user adoption. The removal reflects ongoing tensions between privacy and child safety concerns, with law enforcement criticizing encryption as an obstacle to catching predators. Users seeking encrypted messaging can migrate to WhatsApp, which maintains end-to-end encryption as a default feature.Read more →
Gizmodo...Startup Emerges From Stealth With Bold Plan to Beam Solar Power to SatellitesMantis Space, a New Mexico startup, plans to deploy a satellite constellation using military-grade lasers to deliver solar power to spacecraft in Earth's shadow, solving the power generation gap when satellites lose sunlight. With $10 million in seed funding, the company aims to launch a prototype in 2028 that delivers energy 20-30% more efficiently than natural sunlight, allowing satellites to reduce reliance on heavy battery banks.Read more →
TechCrunch...Steven Spielberg says he’s ‘never used AI’ in any of his filmsSteven Spielberg publicly opposed using AI in creative filmmaking at SXSW 2026, stating he has never used AI on his films and will not outsource creativity to machines. The legendary director acknowledged AI's utility in many disciplines but emphasized that artificial intelligence should not replace creative individuals, particularly in writers' rooms. His position reflects concerns about preserving human creative control in the film industry.Read more →
The Verge...Instagram is getting rid of end-to-end encrypted DMs that ‘very few’ people usedMeta directs users seeking end-to-end encrypted messaging to use WhatsApp, indicating the company is consolidating its privacy-focused messaging capabilities around this platform. This suggests Meta may be prioritizing different approaches to encryption across its various messaging services.Read more →
TechCrunch...The biggest AI stories of the year (so far)The AI industry faced significant geopolitical tension when Anthropic refused Pentagon demands for autonomous weapons and surveillance access, leading to government restrictions while competitors capitalized on the opportunity. Agentic AI saw explosive growth through platforms like OpenClaw and Moltbook, though security vulnerabilities raised concerns about prompt injection attacks and unauthorized data access. Infrastructure demands from AI giants are creating chip shortages that drive up consumer hardware prices while massive data center construction poses environmental and community health challenges.Read more →
TechCrunch...Travis Kalanick launches a new company called Atoms focused on roboticsTravis Kalanick has launched Atoms, a robotics company building specialized robot wheelbases for operations in food, mining, and transportation industries, with reported backing from Uber. The venture marks Kalanick's return to autonomous vehicle development following his 2017 departure from Uber, with potential plans to acquire autonomous vehicle startup Pronto. Atoms plans to focus on specialized industrial-scale robots rather than humanoid designs.Read more →
CNET...Apple Kicks Off 50th Anniversary Celebrations in Grand Central TerminalApple celebrates its 50th anniversary with announcements of new devices including the iPhone 17E, iPad Air, MacBook Air and Pro models, and MacBook Neo. The company held a celebration event at Grand Central Terminal featuring CEO Tim Cook and performer Alicia Keys, highlighting Apple's cultural and technological significance since its 1976 founding. The milestone recognizes Apple's evolution from the original Apple I computer to current innovations including the Vision Pro VR headset and services such as the App Store, iCloud, and Apple Music.Read more →
CNET...Apple Opens 50th Anniversary Festivities in Grand Central TerminalApple is celebrating its 50th anniversary with global events, beginning with a celebration at Grand Central Terminal in New York City featuring CEO Tim Cook and artist Alicia Keys. The milestone marks the company's journey from its 1976 founding to becoming a tech giant with influential products including the iPhone and Vision Pro, alongside successful services like the App Store and Apple Music.Read more →
CNET...Best Cellphone Plans of 2026: Our Top PicksCNET compares cellular phone plans from major carriers like T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T plus prepaid alternatives, helping consumers evaluate pricing, data limits, and features to find optimal value. The guide provides targeted recommendations for different user profiles from budget-conscious individuals to families and frequent international travelers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Travis Kalanick reportedly starting a new self-driving company backed by UberTravis Kalanick, former Uber founder, is launching a new self-driving vehicle company with major backing from Uber, aiming to roll out autonomous technology more aggressively than competitor Waymo. The startup marks Kalanick's return to the autonomous vehicle space after Uber shuttered its self-driving division in 2020, signaling renewed corporate interest in the sector. Kalanick is also exploring strategic acquisitions, including a potential purchase of Pronto, an autonomous vehicle startup created by his former colleague at Uber.Read more →
Gizmodo...That Sure Is a Picture of a Knife, ‘Friday the 13th’ Spinoff ‘Crystal Lake’Peacock announced the upcoming Jason Voorhees prequel series 'Crystal Lake' starring Linda Cardellini, releasing three atmospheric mood board images on Friday the 13th. The horror series, produced with A24, has faced production challenges including budget concerns and creative leadership changes but continues development. The streamer has not yet released a trailer, maintaining mystery around the project's release date.Read more →
Gizmodo...Live Nation Employees ‘Almost Feel Bad’ for Gouging Their Customers Who Are ‘So Stupid’Live Nation Entertainment reached a settlement in a DOJ-led antitrust lawsuit over monopolistic ticketing practices, but the weak terms leave fundamental business practices unchanged. Internal Slack messages revealed company officials openly discussing how they deliberately overcharge customers, undermining Live Nation's claims that such practices don't reflect their values. State attorneys general are continuing separate legal actions against the company.Read more →
The Verge...Google Pixel 10A review: Just buy the 9AThe Pixel 10A offers minimal hardware upgrades over the previous Pixel 9A, including a flush camera design, slightly faster charging, and Satellite SOS support, but shares the same chipset, battery, and cameras. With the 9A still available at a lower price point, Google's newest midrange phone struggles to justify its existence as a worthwhile upgrade.Read more →
Gizmodo...Earth’s Spin Is Slowing at a Pace Not Seen in Millions of Years—and You Can Guess WhyResearch from Austrian and Swiss geophysicists reveals that Earth's rotation has slowed dramatically, with days lengthening by approximately 1.33 milliseconds per century from 2000 to 2020—the fastest rate of deceleration in at least 3.6 million years. This rapid change is primarily attributed to climate change-induced ice melt redistributing mass toward the equator, creating drag on Earth's spin. The findings have practical implications for space navigation systems that require precise measurements of Earth's rotation.Read more →
Gizmodo...Elon Musk Is Dipping Into the Rejected Candidates Pile After Admitting xAI ‘Was Not Built Right’Elon Musk acknowledged xAI needs rebuilding from the ground up after losing most of its founding team and internal talent, now recruiting previously rejected candidates to reconstruct the organization. The company has faced significant employee dissatisfaction, with former staff citing poor management structures and stifled creativity despite Musk's marketing claims of a flat hierarchy. This massive restructuring raises concerns about xAI's readiness for an anticipated major initial public offering.Read more →
Gizmodo...Mars Doesn’t Have Enough Gravity to Keep Humans Healthy, Study SuggestsA study on the International Space Station identified 0.67g as the critical gravity threshold below which muscle atrophy occurs in mice, providing crucial data for sustaining human presence on the Moon and Mars. Since both celestial bodies have gravity levels below this threshold (Moon 0.17g, Mars 0.38g), the findings suggest extended missions will require artificial gravity or enhanced exercise protocols. This research directly informs NASA's Artemis lunar base plans and future Mars exploration missions.Read more →
The Verge...Backbone’s versatile pro controller is nearly matching its best price to dateThe Backbone Pro is a versatile mobile gaming controller on sale for $139.99, featuring enhanced ergonomics, 40-hour battery life, and Bluetooth connectivity for phones, TVs, computers, and VR headsets. Its companion software aggregates games from Apple Arcade, Netflix, and Google Play while enabling cloud gaming from Xbox and PlayStation.Read more →
The Verge...Adobe will pay $75 million to settle US cancellation fee lawsuitAdobe says it will pay $75 million to resolve a lawsuit filed by the US government alleging that the creative software giant harmed consumers by making its subscriptions intentionally hard to cancel and concealing termination fees. The payment aims to resolve the complaint raised in June 2024, in which the US Justice Department accused Adobe […]Read more →
Gizmodo...TSA Officers Miss Their First Full Paycheck as Fears About Long Airport Lines Get RealA partial U.S. government shutdown has left 50,000 TSA officers without paychecks, resulting in over 300 resignations and increasing sick calls that have caused airport delays exceeding three hours. The staffing shortage threatens to significantly degrade airport security screening capacity as replacement training takes four to six months. This political deadlock between Democrats and Republicans over DHS funding changes shows no sign of resolution.Read more →
Engadget...You'll now have to fork out for an additional subscription if you want to watch 4K content on Prime VideoAmazon is raising Prime Video subscription prices by introducing a $5/month Ultra tier and removing 4K streaming from its standard ad-free tier, forcing existing Prime members to pay more to maintain UHD content access. The change takes effect April 10 for US customers and includes increased concurrent streams and downloads for the premium tier. This restructuring effectively increases costs for subscribers unwilling to accept 1080p limitations.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Stranger Things’ Star Gaten Matarazzo’s New Movie Is an Even Stranger TripPizza Movie is a sci-fi horror comedy starring Gaten Matarazzo and Sean Giambrone as college roommates who take a mysterious drug that requires pizza pairing to survive. Directed by former SNL writers BriTANicK and featuring supporting performances from Daniel Radcliffe and others, the film premieres on Hulu on April 3.Read more →
TechCrunch...The wild six weeks for NanoClaw’s creator that led to a deal with DockerGavriel Cohen created NanoClaw, a lightweight open-source AI agent-building tool emphasizing security as an alternative to OpenClaw, which suffered from critical data access vulnerabilities. After viral traction on Hacker News and endorsement from AI researcher Andrej Karpathy, NanoClaw gained 22,000 GitHub stars and a partnership with Docker to integrate Sandboxes technology. Cohen founded NanoCo to commercialize the project while maintaining it as free and open-source, attracting venture capital interest.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spotify will let you edit your Taste Profile to control your recommendationsSpotify announced a new beta feature allowing Premium listeners to review and edit their Taste Profile, the algorithmic model powering personalized recommendations like Discover Weekly and Spotify Wrapped. Starting in New Zealand, users can see all listening data and fine-tune recommendations using natural language prompts. This addresses long-standing user frustrations about inaccurate recommendations caused by shared accounts and unwanted listening history.Read more →
CNET...Amazon to Increase the Price of Ad-Free Prime Video StreamingAmazon launched Prime Video Ultra, a new premium subscription tier replacing the existing ad-free option and launching April 10 at $5 per month. Existing ad-free customers will be automatically upgraded but face a $2 monthly price increase, gaining enhanced features including 4K UHD resolution, 100 downloads, and five simultaneous streams versus the base tier's four streams. This restructured tiered model increases revenue while offering enhanced features to premium subscribers.Read more →
CNET...AI-Recommended Music? Spotify Is Giving You the Power to PersonalizeSpotify is introducing a new feature that lets users review and customize their AI-driven Taste Profile, giving listeners direct control over music recommendations. The feature, currently in beta and rolling out first to New Zealand, allows users to request more or less of specific genres and artists to fine-tune their personalized recommendations. User input will gradually shape what gets prioritized across Spotify's Discovery Weekly, Daily Mixes, and homepage features.Read more →
CNET...Meta's New AI Model Is Reportedly Delayed Again. Is 'Avocado' Toast?Meta delayed its Avocado foundational model to May after underperforming on internal tests for reasoning, coding, and writing compared to Google, OpenAI, and Anthropic. Despite increasing AI spending to $115-135 billion annually, the company continues to lag behind competitors in foundational model capabilities.Read more →
The Verge...Ninja’s star Creami ice cream maker is on sale for $169The Ninja Creami 5-in-1 Ice Cream Maker enables users to create custom frozen desserts at home with five preset programs including ice cream, sorbet, gelato, milkshakes, and smoothie bowls. Currently discounted to $169 at Walmart, the appliance offers ingredient customization and dishwasher-safe components for convenient preparation and cleanup.Read more →
Engadget...Parallels Desktop creators say MacBook Neo does indeed have enough muscle to run Windows appsParallels Desktop has confirmed compatibility with Apple's new MacBook Neo, which uses an ARM-based A18 Pro chip, enabling Windows virtualization on the device. However, performance is severely constrained by the device's 8GB RAM allocation, as Windows 11 requires 4GB minimum, leaving minimal resources for macOS and other applications. The lack of a cooling fan and resulting thermal throttling makes the MacBook Neo unsuitable for demanding Windows workloads.Read more →
Gizmodo...Astronomers Watch in Amazement as 2 Planets Smash Into Each Other Around Nearby StarAstronomers discovered rare direct evidence of two planets colliding around a distant star (Gaia20ehk) located 11,000 light-years away, detected through unusual dimming and infrared spikes in the star's brightness over several years. The collision created massive quantities of debris that blocked the star's light, providing crucial insights into planetary formation processes. This observation represents one of only a few confirmed planetary collisions ever recorded and offers parallels to how Earth and the Moon may have formed.Read more →
Gizmodo...Mark Zuckerberg’s Billion-Dollar Hiring Spree Doesn’t Seem to Be Going So GreatMeta has delayed the release of its new foundational AI model, codenamed Avocado, from March to at least May after internal testing revealed it underperformed competing models from Google, OpenAI, and Anthropic in reasoning, coding, and writing tasks. The setback comes despite Meta's massive $600 billion investment commitment in AI infrastructure through 2028 and significant spending on elite talent recruitment. Meta's leadership stated the company remains confident in its AI trajectory and plans to release updated models throughout the year.Read more →
