Technology News 20.12.2025

NASA Satellites Capture a 'Smoke Monster' over Saskatchewan as Pyrocumulonimbus Thunderstorm Forms

December 20, 2025, 11:54 PM EST. NASA and partner satellites photographed a towering wildfire plume over central Saskatchewan in May 2025, nicknamed a smoke monster. The plume, rising to about 10 miles, was a fire-driven thunderstorm known as a pyrocumulonimbus (pyroCb), formed when intense fires heat air that rises into colder, high-altitude layers. Scientists at the Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies used geostationary and Landsat 9 data to track its development; Landsat 9's OLI 2 captured long streaks of smoke on May 10, while the fire front emitted infrared signals. The event underscored the role of extreme fire weather in generating powerful updrafts, and highlighted how satellites monitor smoke plumes, air quality, and the progression of wildfires across Canada.

SpaceX Starlink satellite explosion creates debris field; reentry expected next week

December 20, 2025, 11:36 PM EST. SpaceX is dealing with an in-orbit anomaly after a Starlink satellite partially exploded, creating a debris field of trackable pieces including the propulsion tank and much of the satellite body. SpaceX says the debris pose no immediate risk to the ISS and that the satellite is on track to re-enter Earth's atmosphere in the coming days. The company is investigating the root cause and plans to roll out software updates to its vehicles to increase protections against similar events. The incident follows SpaceX's launch of 27 new Starlink satellites last week, underscoring ongoing space safety efforts in maintaining a crowded LEO constellation.

Goldman Sachs Expands AI-Focused Software Advisory and $30B Debt Shelf

December 20, 2025, 11:20 PM EST. Goldman Sachs has appointed Brian Cayne, co-founder of Qatalyst Partners, as global co-head of its software investment banking group, signaling a push into AI-focused software advisory and alternative investments. Simultaneously, the firm is tapping a new US$30 billion shelf for medium-term notes to fund growth across advisory, financing and alternatives, improving funding flexibility beyond single-market windows. Analysts see the move as aligning fee-based, capital-light earnings with a broader deal cycle, though near-term upside hinges on an upturn in M&A and financing activity. The Cayne hire and the new shelf are directional but not transformative in the near term; investors will watch for a stronger pipeline and sustained balance-sheet resilience amid evolving capital rules.

OnePlus Pad Go 2: Global pricing, colors and ship dates disclosed

December 20, 2025, 10:58 PM EST. OnePlus has revealed global pricing and availability for the Pad Go 2. In the US, the Wi-Fi model with 8 GB RAM/128 GB storage is priced at $399.99 and ships with a Stylus or Folio Case. Color options include Lavender Drift and Shadow Black. India gets more SKUs for the Pad Lite, priced from INR 25,999 to INR 31,999, with 128-256 GB and 5G. The Pad Go 2 is scheduled to start shipping: India on December 20, UK on December 30, US on January 1, and the Eurozone on January 6. OnePlus also offers complimentary gifts (Watch 2R or Buds 4) while stocks last. For full details, see the OnePlus site and our first impressions article.

DJI Neo 2 After 30 Days: Why This Pocketable Drone Has Become One Of My Favorites

December 20, 2025, 10:56 PM EST. After 30 days with the DJI Neo 2, this pocketable drone has proven itself as more than a toy. The platform trades the original's limitations for real-world usefulness: a strong price-to-capability ratio at about $229 (Fly More or controller combos vary), with omnidirectional obstacle avoidance (top, bottom) and Lidar on the front, plus an LCD screen and on-drone controls. The new two-axis gimbal and improved stabilization deliver noticeably sharper footage and smoother flying. It functions as a capable autonomous follower out of the box, making it a powerful tool in a camera bag for travel or quick setups. In short: DJI Neo 2 is affordable, feature-dense, and surprisingly practical for serious work.

Apple Stock News Today: Analysts Target Higher AAPL Prices on AI Push and 2026 Catalysts

December 20, 2025, 10:54 PM EST. Apple stock update for Dec. 20, 2025: shares hover near record territory as investors shift from iPhone-cycle lore to a 2026 focus on durable earnings powered by AI and Apple Intelligence. The latest quote sits around $273.67 with a possible path to a $288.62 52-week high. Analysts have been notably active: Morgan Stanley lifts its target to $315, Citi to $330, Evercore to $325, and Wedbush to $350, while Jefferies nudges to $283.36 with a more cautious stance. Catalysts include iPhone momentum, stronger Services margins, App Store monetization, and a Siri relaunch using Google Gemini models. The street's 2026 forecasts vary, but the consensus is that Apple's AI-driven monetization could drive durable earnings, offsetting margin headwinds and regulatory risks.

Is Zoom Still Undervalued After AI Push and a Stock Rally?

December 20, 2025, 10:50 PM EST. Zoom Communications has endured a brutal 5-year slide and a recent rally as it pivots to AI-driven collaboration tools and a broader enterprise suite. Valuation checks still hint at upside despite the stock's rebound. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) approach flags an intrinsic value near $123 per share, with a ~27% upside to the current price, underpinned by about $1.94B in trailing free cash flow (FCF) and forecasts topping $2.2B in the near term. Beyond cash flows, the analysis notes competitive headwinds in unified communications, but an expanding product lineup and durable profits could support long-run upside if AI gains translate to earnings. Bottom line: Zoom appears undervalued with scope for appreciation if execution matches the AI-driven narrative.

Nvidia Could Jump 75% in 2026 as China Reopens H200 Chips and Blackwell Demand Surges

December 20, 2025, 10:38 PM EST. Nvidia enters a new growth phase as China reopens access to H200 chips and global demand for Blackwell climbs. With a large backlog, rising margins, and the upcoming Rubin platform, the stock could outperform expectations. The discussion cites Dec. 12, 2025 price data and a Dec. 19, 2025 video. It contrasts two viewpoints: Motley Fool's Stock Advisor notes, which did not list Nvidia in the top 10, versus past calls that would have yielded massive returns. Disclosures note Nvidia's position with The Motley Fool and affiliate considerations. Investors should evaluate these catalysts and risks in context of broader market conditions.

Beginning of the end for iPhone? Apple's phones glitch more than ever

December 20, 2025, 10:36 PM EST. Reports from social media and tech outlets say the iPhone is glitchier than ever, with issues from alarms turning into a whisper to a black dot of death on screens. The debate centers on iOS updates (18/24/26) and what some call a slowdown in innovation. Some users report alarms, browsing history reappearing, apps behaving oddly, Wi-Fi drops, and privacy quirks when clearing data. The chatter dominates discussions about Apple's reputation as the go-to smartphone. Analysts caution that a full collapse is unlikely, but rising bug chatter and frustrated fans signal growing scrutiny of Apple hardware and software quality. Apple has not issued broad comments yet, leaving owners to hunt workarounds while the conversation continues.

FBI ramps up AI tools to counter domestic and global threats, Patel says

December 20, 2025, 10:34 PM EST. In a post on X, FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau is expanding its use of artificial intelligence to enhance investigations and national security. He framed AI as a key component of the FBI's strategy to stay ahead of evolving threats, noting a technology working group led by outgoing Deputy Director Dan Bongino. The agency is deploying AI across tools such as vehicle recognition, voice-language identification, speech-to-text analysis, and video analytics to assist investigators and analysts. Patel described the investments as long-term gains for America's security and part of an effort to counter both domestic and international threats in a changing threat landscape. The FBI confirmed the initiative via his X post.

Intel Stock News: Nvidia Deal Cleared, Foundry Milestone, and Wall Street Outlook (Dec 20, 2025)

December 20, 2025, 10:06 PM EST. Intel stock enters a dual narrative: a regulatory-clearance for its Nvidia partnership and progress on its foundry roadmap. The FTC cleared Nvidia's investment in Intel, removing a key overhang and signaling stronger ecosystem credibility for INTC as it pursues AI-enabled growth with Nvidia. Investors are watching whether the alliance translates into revenue and margin lift, not just headlines. On the tech side, Intel hit a High-NA EUV milestone with ASML as part of its 14A process ambitions, reinforcing foundry credibility. The market will weigh these catalysts against geopolitics and earnings follow-through. Wall Street forecasts and price targets for INTC remain in focus as shares trade in the mid-$30s, with expectations for continued execution in 2025.

Never pay for cloud storage again with a 20TB lifetime deal from Internxt

December 20, 2025, 10:04 PM EST. Sponsored deal: Mashable partners offer a lifetime subscription to Internxt Cloud Storage with 20TB of space for a one-time price of $399.97 (regularly $4,900). No monthly fees, no recurring renewals-just safe storage you lock in today. This deal reduces your long-term costs while giving you room to grow your files, backups, and media libraries. The promotion runs through Dec. 21 and is subject to change after time of publication. If you're tired of upgrading plans or watching prices rise, this one-time payment option could be worth a closer look.

AI-enhanced ear image could crack 20-year missing-person case

December 20, 2025, 10:02 PM EST. Parents of Jennifer Kesse hope an AI-enhanced image of a suspect's ear could help solve a missing-person case that dates back nearly two decades. The FBI says a grainy CCTV shot shows a person leaving the suspect vehicle in Orlando, Florida; the Kesse family has long urged authorities to pursue new leads. They're working with an AI firm to sharpen the ear profile, arguing that an ear can be as informative as eyes, fingerprints, or DNA. Police are examining newly obtained DNA evidence from the vehicle while continuing to review the case with the FDLE. If the technology yields a clearer image, authorities say the investigation could advance quickly and bring closure to the family.

China launches new communication technology test satellite to advance next-gen links

December 20, 2025, 10:00 PM EST. China has launched a new communication technology test satellite to validate on-orbit experiments and next-generation data links. The mission aims to test high-capacity links, inter-satellite communication, and potential applications in broadband, disaster response, and secure gov/comms. The project signals China's push to accelerate space-based communication capabilities and deepen collaboration with industry partners for future networks.

Is Nvidia Stock a Buy in 2026? Backlog, Rubin/Blackwell, and AI Infrastructure Tailwinds

December 20, 2025, 9:48 PM EST. As 2026 approaches, Nvidia remains a leader in the AI revolution, but its stock has lagged peers. The focus centers on the data center business and the GPU roadmap, notably Blackwell and the upcoming Rubin chips. Nvidia reportedly carries a total backlog of about $500 billion for Blackwell, Rubin, and networking gear, with roughly $300 billion to be recognized in 2026. The broader AI capex wave-driven by hyperscalers like Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta-could fuel Nvidia's growth into adjacent markets such as CPUs and accelerated computing OS. Partnerships with Intel and Palantir may unlock new opportunities. Investors should weigh these tailwinds against valuation metrics like P/S and forward P/E.

NVIDIA News: Blackwell Cloud Loophole, Tencent, and 2026 Catalysts

December 20, 2025, 9:46 PM EST. As 2025 closes, NVIDIA faces two forces driving its stock: booming AI infrastructure demand and geopolitics around China. The Dec. 20 weekend brought headlines that Tencent may access restricted Blackwell chips through overseas cloud providers, underscoring an export-control loophole that could keep high-end demand alive even with direct bans. The story also raises regulatory risk and potential U.S. policy backlash over remote data centers serving restricted users. Separately, Reuters cited a new interagency review that could enable H200 shipments to China, suggesting 2026 catalysts may hinge on policy. Traders pegged Nvidia around $180-$181 with a roughly $4.4 trillion market cap as the week ended.

QCon AI NYC 2025: Designing Reliable AI Platforms with Agentic AI, Deterministic Boundaries, and Tooling

December 20, 2025, 9:44 PM EST. At QCon AI NYC 2025, Aaron Erickson frames agentic AI as an engineering problem-reliability arises from combining probabilistic components with deterministic boundaries and wrapping them around real operational systems. The model can interpret questions, retrieve evidence, classify situations, and propose actions; deterministic systems execute actions, enforce constraints, and provide telemetry for loop evaluation. A common trap in NL-to-SQL arises as schemas grow; mitigation includes flattening the schema, constraining query forms, and pricing expressiveness with more safeguards. He contrasts classification vs code generation: small, known categories work well, while inventing arbitrary programs over large search spaces increases errors, demanding bounded templates. Role specialization matters: orchestration layers delegate, but domain logic belongs to specialized agents and deterministic tools. He notes the paradox of choice in tool catalogs and the need for well-described, constrained tooling.

AirPods Pro 3 price hits a record low of $199 on Amazon

December 20, 2025, 9:28 PM EST. Amazon currently discounts the AirPods Pro 3 to $199, a $50 cut that marks a new low for Apple's latest earbuds. The update brings better battery life and sound, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) upgrades, and new features like Live Translation and heart-rate sensing. The kit includes foam-infused ear tips for improved passive isolation, and Engadget notes the H2 chip powers ultra-clean audio and quieter microphones. If you want the best AirPods experience today, this deal makes the AirPods Pro 3 an attractive option for everyday listening, workouts, and travel.

Indie Game Awards Strips Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 of GOTY Over AI Use

December 20, 2025, 9:14 PM EST. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the breakout RPG from Sandfall Interactive, had its Game of the Year and Debut Game awards stripped by the Indie Game Awards after revelations of AI/gen AI involvement. The IGAs said representatives initially denied AI use in development, and confirmation of gen AI art on the day of the ceremony prompted the retroactive disqualification. The awards were retracted, with the next-highest-ranked titles Blue Prince (GOTY) and Sorry We're Closed (Debut Game) stepping in. Acceptance speeches were recorded and are expected for early 2026. The IGAs maintain a strict policy on AI in the nomination and ceremony process.

Should You Buy Nvidia Stock Ahead of CES 2026? Catalysts, Risks and the AI Chip Leader

December 20, 2025, 9:12 PM EST. Nvidia has cemented itself as a leader in AI chips, powering a rally in its stock as demand from tech giants remains robust. The company has posted strong growth, with the stock up about 30% this year and roughly 1,200% over five years, fueled by its high-performance chips and an expanding AI ecosystem of products and services. Some investors look for a near-term catalyst around CES (beginning Jan. 6), where Nvidia will showcase demos and talks, potentially renewing excitement. Yet after its November earnings, management may not unveil major updates at CES, limiting upside in the very near term. Competition from AMD, Broadcom, and customers building in-house chips persists, but Nvidia's momentum and AI spending tailwinds support a constructive longer-term thesis.

Transform an Old Android Tablet into a Custom In-Car Android Dashboard

December 20, 2025, 8:58 PM EST. Turn an old Android tablet into a custom in-car dashboard. The piece explains why dashboards feel outdated and how a DIY retrofit can modernize a cabin without a new head unit. It contrasts Android Auto (a phone-powered interface) with Android Automotive (an embedded system) and notes that Android Automotive can support both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for broad compatibility. A DIY route inspired by Mishaal Rahman runs a Vanilla Android Automotive on a tablet, connecting to a smartphone via USB to enable Android Auto support (for now wired-only). There's even a path to connect the tablet through the car's OBD port to pull real-time data, though this is not the designers' intended use and carries risks.

Analysts Keep Apple (AAPL) at Moderate Buy as Price Targets Rise

December 20, 2025, 8:42 PM EST. Analysts maintain a Moderate Buy rating on Apple (AAPL) as major firms lift price targets. JPMorgan's Samik Chatterjee reaffirmed an Overweight view with a $305 target, while Citi raised its target to $330 and CLSA also nudged to $330, keeping Buy/Outperform calls. As of December 17, the consensus shows a Moderate Buy with a one-year target near $299, implying about a 9% upside. The reports point to anticipated iPhone upgrades and stronger sales into FY26-27. The Information reports Apple plans seven iPhone variants by 2027. In a broader note, the piece suggests some AI stocks may offer greater upside versus AAPL.

West Virginia among top 10 states for smartphone-only internet access among children

December 20, 2025, 8:12 PM EST. New data show West Virginia is among the top 10 states where children rely on smartphone-only internet access. About 6% of kids aged 3-18 live in households that rely solely on a phone for online connectivity, well above the national average of roughly 1.7%. The top-10 list includes Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Oklahoma, New Mexico, South Carolina, Alabama, Texas, Alaska, and West Virginia. This digital equity gap affects homework, online lessons, and job training, as small screens and limited data can hinder sustained learning. To address it, families can explore federal programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program and Lifeline, schools can offer device lending or hotspots, and communities can expand public Wi-Fi and fixed broadband access. Policymakers should direct funding to hard-hit counties to close the gap.

Soverli aims to make every smartphone sovereign with auditable OS layer

December 20, 2025, 8:10 PM EST. Swiss cybersecurity startup Soverli has unveiled a sovereign layer that lets multiple operating systems run in parallel on a single smartphone. The auditable OS layer can operate independently even if the underlying Android or iOS is compromised, preserving continuity for mission-critical workflows. The approach enables users to keep personal and business environments separate without sacrificing device functionality, and it integrates with existing mobile device management systems. In pilots for emergency services, police, and firefighting, essential apps stay functional during misconfigurations or attacks. The technology, developed over four years at ETH Zurich, allows running, in milliseconds, the standard OS beside the sovereign environment and even enables apps like Signal to operate inside the isolated layer. Soverli targets secure BYOD programs and protects sensitive data while maintaining a modern smartphone experience.

Broadcom Emerges as JPMorgan's AI Chip Darling, Testing Nvidia's Lead

December 20, 2025, 8:08 PM EST. Broadcom is positioning itself as a top AI chip supplier for hyperscalers, with a $1.6 trillion market cap and a 54% annual gain. The company targets seven to ten large customers for billion-dollar AI deployments, not thousands of smaller contracts. It reports a $73 billion AI order backlog for the next six quarters, and JPMorgan has upgraded the stock to Overweight, calling the dip a buying opportunity. Broadcom runs two segments-Semiconductor Solutions (custom ASICs for data-center AI workloads) and Infrastructure Software (including VMware). CEO Hock Tan says hyperscalers are spending about $30 billion annually on AI compute, focusing on the biggest deals rather than broad GPU sales. The upgrade reflects rising hyperscaler capex and demand for Broadcom's chips.

LightGen: All-optical chip aims to power large-scale generative AI

December 20, 2025, 7:58 PM EST. Shanghai Jiao Tong University unveiled LightGen, an all-optical computing chip designed to run large-scale generative AI models. The team claims it is the first system capable of handling semantic and visual generation end-to-end, addressing growing computational and energy demands in the post-Moore era. LightGen reportedly overcomes three bottlenecks: enabling millions of optical neurons on a single chip, achieving all-optical dimensional transformation, and developing a training approach that does not rely on ground-truth data. By delivering an input-understanding-semantic manipulation-generation loop entirely optically, LightGen aims to accelerate text-to-image and related generation tasks with improved efficiency. The work, published as a featured paper in Science, highlights a path toward energy-efficient optical computing for next-gen generative models.

Capcom's PRAGMATA PC Demo Fails on Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Android Phone, Emulation Hurdles Highlighted

December 20, 2025, 7:56 PM EST. An Android fan attempted to run Capcom's PRAGMATA PC demo on a Galaxy S23 Ultra via GameHub, only to hit a 'Fatal D3D error.' The culprit appears to be outdated graphics drivers on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which is now several years old in mobile terms. Reddit users suggest a mix of power and compatibility issues, and that devices with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5-series may fare better. While PC testing with RE Engine remains smooth, the Android effort underscores how emulation and non-native ports struggle to reproduce PC-level performance on current mobile hardware. Capcom hasn't confirmed Android/iOS port plans for PRAGMATA beyond the PC demo, slated for April 24.

Apple Stock News: AI Roadmap, iPhone 17 Demand, and App Store Regulation in Focus

December 20, 2025, 7:54 PM EST. Apple Inc. (AAPL) heads into the Dec. 20, 2025 weekend near record territory as two intertwined narratives unfold: enduring iPhone pricing power and a potential upgrade cycle tied to Apple Intelligence, all while preserving the high-margin Services engine. The stock hovered around the Dec. 19 close of about $273.67 with a roughly $4.04T market cap, keeping investors focused on the next earnings print around late January 2026. Key themes: (1) solid iPhone 17 demand and holiday-quarter strength feeding confidence on revenue; (2) leadership moves and monetization timing for AI; (3) regulatory scrutiny over the App Store and potential policy headwinds shaping the stock's multiple.

Deals: Galaxy S25, Z Fold7, Pixel 10 Series Discounted on Amazon and Samsung Store

December 20, 2025, 7:52 PM EST. Holiday deals continue with discounts on popular smartphones. The Galaxy S25 series (S25, S25+, S25 Ultra) is up to $560 off in Samsung's US store, while the Galaxy Z Fold7 is discounted by $720. The Galaxy Z Flip7 is on sale on Amazon US. The Pixel 10 lineup – including the base Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold – is discounted on Amazon US, powered by the new Tensor G5 and supporting PixelSnap accessories. Related discounts include Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Buds 2a. Other deals: Nothing Phone (3) on sale, OnePlus 13 with about $150 off, and Moto G Power (2025) with $100 off.

Apple and Google warn visa-holding workers to avoid travel amid crackdown

December 20, 2025, 7:38 PM EST. Apple and Google are advising U.S.-based employees on H-1B visas to avoid international travel amid intensified visa vetting and lengthy consulate/embassy delays. DHS rules requiring review of up to five years of social media history have slowed visa renewals, increasing the risk of being stranded abroad. The advisories, noted by law firms Berry Appleman & Leiden and Fragomen, urge employees to stay in the U.S. if possible and to consult in advance if travel is unavoidable. The move comes amid the Trump administration's broader immigration crackdown, including proposed fees for new H-1B visas, which is affecting a large portion of the tech industry's foreign-born workforce.

Huawei Mate X7 review: bigger battery, 50MP periscope, and Kirin 9030 power

December 20, 2025, 7:34 PM EST. Hands-on with the Huawei Mate X7 shows a premium foldable that finally broadens its feature set. Available in White, Black, and Nebula Red with vegan leather or woven finishes, it ships with a 66W charger and a case. The €2,099 price sits above rivals like the Honor Magic V5, but you get a larger battery-30% more than the Mate X6-and faster charging. The 6.49" cover display peaks at 3000 nits under Kunlun Glass 2, while the 8" inner panel remains superb with minimal crease. A notable upgrade includes a 50MP periscope camera (81mm equiv) beside the 24MP main and 40MP ultrawide. The 6nm Kirin 9030 with a new 9-core GPU should improve performance and endurance. Full review coming soon.

Buying a used iPhone 13 Mini: price, pits, and lessons learned

December 20, 2025, 7:24 PM EST. After four years with the iPhone 12 Pro Max, I test a used iPhone 13 Mini (256GB) bought for $353 on Amazon. The plan: compare it with the pocket-friendly iPhone Air and weigh the risks of buying an aging model. I explore the Renewed vs refurbished label (Renewed Premium promises 90% battery; standard Renewed requires 80%), and where to shop (Gazelle, Back Market, Swappa, eBay, Woot). The device runs iOS 26 and should get several more years of updates, but performance and battery wear are concerns. Can the iPhone 13 Mini deliver the Air's perks at a fraction of the price, or do the trade-offs outweigh the savings?

Chinese Lenses in 2025: Diverse, Accessible Glass from Viltrox, Laowa, Meike and More

December 20, 2025, 7:20 PM EST. 2025 proved that Chinese lens makers like Viltrox, Laowa, Meike, Sirui, Thypoch, and Light Lens Lab can deliver game-changing glass at approachable prices. This recap highlights a year of diverse offerings-from the budget-conscious 28mm pancake to high-performance LAB primes for E-mount and Z-mount, plus a growing lineup of AF adapters and cinema-oriented optics. Notable entries included the fast 135mm f/1.8 LAB and the compact 35mm f/1.2 LAB, along with value-packed Pro series like the 50mm f/1.4 Pro and 85mm f/1.8 Pro. The trend: quality that competes with Japanese rivals, wide compatibility, and affordable innovation fueling photographers and videographers worldwide.

Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 brings flashlight tweaks, At a Glance removal, and nav-key reordering for Pixel

December 20, 2025, 7:04 PM EST. Google rolls out Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 for Pixel owners, signaling another late-stage tune-up before Android 17. The update focuses on usability tweaks: you can remove the At a Glance widget to reclaim home screen space, and the Quick Settings flashlight now includes an adjustable brightness slider. A new option lets you swap the order of the back and recent keys in the three-button navigation bar. An expanded location indicator in the status bar shows which app is using location, while support for the Unicode 17.0 emoji set adds over 160 symbols. Note: as a beta, expect bugs and prepare for a potential wipe; the stable release targets March 2026.

3 Free PC Games with 100% Steam Discounts Confirmed – Includes a Certified Banger

December 20, 2025, 6:20 PM EST. Gamer alert: Three new free PC games have been revealed, each landing with a 100% Steam discount. The lineup features fast paced action and varied genres, with one title already hailed as a certified banger by early testers. If you want new content, grab these titles on Steam before the promotion ends, and stay tuned for more bundles and updates from publishers.

Boeing's Internet-Based Flight Communications Could Transform Commercial Aviation

December 20, 2025, 6:18 PM EST. Boeing and United Airlines recently completed ecoDemonstrator Explorer tests on a 737-8 to trial Internet Protocol Suite data communications, aiming to boost safety, reduce fuel consumption and emissions, and ease air-traffic congestion through internet-based links between pilots, ATC, and airline ops. After a decade of development with aerospace suppliers, government agencies, and academia, the live tests illustrate Boeing's push to embed digital efficiency into future commercial operations. The work complements broader tech initiatives with NASA on new wing designs and efforts to lift 737/787 output while stabilizing Spirit AeroSystems' involvement. Yet the stock's near-term catalysts depend on 737 production and certification, margin stabilization, and balance-sheet improvement. Investors should weigh execution risk and debt load against the potential efficiency gains from this modernized flight-communications strategy.

NOAA Satellites Track the Winter Solstice with GOES East Imagery

December 20, 2025, 6:04 PM EST. NOAA's satellites are monitoring the approach of astronomical winter as the winter solstice arrives on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025 at 10:03 a.m. EST. The post highlights a daily loop from GOES East, using one image per day from GOES-16 and GOES-19, captured at 11:50 UTC. The imagery traces the terminator-the line between day and night-as Earth tilts away from the sun. At the solstice, the North Pole plunges into 24-hour darkness while the South Pole enjoys 24-hour daylight; the pattern reverses in June. The piece also notes the distinction between astronomical winter and meteorological winter, with the latter starting on Dec. 1. This research highlights how satellite data visualize Earth's tilt and seasonal changes.

Atomfall Among 2025's Best Shooter Games, According to Metacritic

December 20, 2025, 6:02 PM EST. Atomfall stands out in Metacritic's 2025 shooter lineup, offering more than a Fallout-inspired backdrop. The British-developed title blends a post-nuclear setting-a quarantine zone in an alternate-reality England-with a gripping story, challenging action, and wonderfully weird mysteries. Though comparisons to Bethesda's franchise persist, Atomfall rises above them, delivering a sense of freedom and exploration. With a Metascore of 74, it's highlighted by critics and invites readers to read our Atomfall review for deeper insights.

Tesla patents glare-shield micro-cone array to reduce sun glare in FSD cameras

December 20, 2025, 6:00 PM EST. Tesla has filed a patent proposing a glare shield for its vision-based FSD system. The design uses a textured surface with an array of micro-cones to scatter incident light, reducing glare and improving camera vision. The cones are optimized to minimize Total Hemispherical Reflectance (THR) and reflection penalty, and can dynamically reorient via an electromechanical system to respond to external light sources. Tesla also references a direct photon count approach, explaining how raw camera data can wash out when pointed at the sun. Future hardware iterations such as Hardware 5 and Hardware 6 could incorporate neutral density filters or heated lenses to further mitigate glare. The patent highlights ongoing work to improve camera robustness in bright conditions for autonomous driving.

Motorola FIFA Edition Razr Surfaces Ahead of CES 2026

December 20, 2025, 5:46 PM EST. Motorola is the official smartphone partner for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 and has teased a FIFA edition of the Razr foldable, with a leaked image circulated by Evan Blass. The pictured device carries the FIFA World Cup 2026 logo and the Motorola logo on the back, with a dual-camera setup on the cover display. Official marketing name and specs remain unconfirmed, but the model is believed to be the Razr 60, differing cosmetically from the standard model. Blass also claims Motorola will run a CES 2026 sweepstakes offering five FIFA edition Razr smartphones and more than $50,000 in prizes, signaling an imminent official announcement from Motorola.

Tesla Model 3 fatal crash on Highway 17 in Los Gatos under investigation

December 20, 2025, 5:34 PM EST. At around 12:30 a.m., a fatal crash on northbound Highway 17 near Lark Avenue involved a Tesla Model 3 that veered off the right embankment and struck a tree, igniting into flames with the driver inside. The California Highway Patrol said the incident is under investigation and it's not yet known whether the car's autonomous capabilities were active or if impairment factors were involved. Investigators documented the scene, towed the vehicle for a closer inspection, and did not release the driver's identity as of press time. Officials will review evidence to determine contributing factors behind the fire and fatal outcome.

ChatGPT gains new personality settings-warmer tone, emoji controls, and more

December 20, 2025, 5:30 PM EST. OpenAI rolled out new personality customization for ChatGPT, letting users dial in warmth and enthusiasm levels (choices: "more", "less", or "default") and adjust how the bot formats replies, including how often it uses lists. A notable addition is control over emoji usage, although there is no option to remove emojis entirely. The update, announced on X, also brings pinned chats, easier email drafting and editing, and updates to the ChatGPT browser Atlas. The feature aims to give people more control over OpenAI's ChatGPT tone and response style, delivering a more tailored AI assistant experience.

Indie Game Awards Disqualify Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Over Generative AI Assets

December 20, 2025, 5:28 PM EST. The Indie Game Awards initially crowned Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 with Game of the Year and Debut Game honors, but the show later retracted both categories after disclosures that generative AI assets were used in development and launched before patch removal. The organizers cited the submission agreement claiming no gen AI usage, and upon confirmation that AI art was used on the premiere day, the nominations were disqualified. The awards were reissued to the next highest-ranked games, and one Indie Vanguard award was also rescinded. The controversy has reignited debate over AI in game development, with comments from Sandfall Interactive's François Meurisse and coverage noting prior admissions of AI use. The Indie Game Awards FAQ outlines eligibility and the rationale behind the revocation.

Mesa 26.0 NVK Driver Adds Warps-per-SM Optimization for NVIDIA Turing GPUs

December 20, 2025, 5:22 PM EST. Open-source updates in Mesa 26.0 bring a notable NVK Vulkan driver improvement: the NAK compiler now uses the hardware's max_warps_per_sm value to optimize Turing GPUs. This aims to deliver better performance for compute-heavy workloads on NVIDIA GeForce RTX 20 Turing GPUs by ensuring the correct warps-per-SM is reported. No performance figures were released with the merge request. The change, along with ongoing Nouveau/NVK work, underscores ongoing open-source NVIDIA driver improvements and forthcoming benchmarks. For context, see recent tests comparing open-source drivers and NVIDIA Linux performance, and AMD vs. NVIDIA performance roundups for 2025.

FTC Clears Nvidia's $5B Intel Investment, Deepening the AI-Chip Partnership

December 20, 2025, 5:20 PM EST. The U.S. FTC has cleared Nvidia's $5 billion investment in Intel, enabling a deepening collaboration to co-develop chips for data centers and PCs. Under the deal, Intel will build x86 CPUs for Nvidia's AI infrastructure and produce x86 System-on-Chips that integrate Nvidia's RTX GPUs for a broad PC lineup. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang calls it a historic fusion of AI and enterprise computing, while industry observers like Patrick Moorhead describe it as a 'huge deal.' The move follows prior government and investor support, and has energized shares as the two companies align their roadmaps to expand the x86 ecosystem and the Windows AI-era PC market.

Google extends Gemini rollout, delaying Assistant retirement into 2026

December 20, 2025, 5:18 PM EST. Google has pushed back its plan to retire Google Assistant and switch Android devices to Gemini as the default AI helper, saying the transition will extend into next year and possibly beyond early 2026. The company is adjusting its timeline to ensure a seamless switch and will share more details in the coming months. Gemini now powers the default experience on the Pixel 9 series since 2024, and Google has been rolling it into more products, including tablets, cars, headphones, and watches. To upgrade, devices must run Android 10 or newer and have at least 2GB RAM. The updated timeline suggests the path to a full Gemini-enabled Android ecosystem will take longer than initially announced.

YouTube Music Nears Final Now Playing Redesign with Dual-Pane Queue and Album-Centric Up Next

December 20, 2025, 5:16 PM EST. YouTube Music has been testing a Now Playing redesign on Android and iOS for over a year. The latest iteration introduces icons for the "Song" and "Video" switcher, offering a cleaner, more obvious control. The carousel, progress bar, and controls remain, but the progress bar is rounded and thickens when scrubbing. The biggest changes are to the bottom tabs: Up Next is renamed to the specific album, playlist, or mix you're listening to, while the Lyrics and Related tabs have been removed (the latter accessed via the song name). Lyrics functionality moves into the carousel, enabling a dual-pane view that combines controls and the queue. The redesign is being seen more, but not widely rolled out yet, with ongoing A/B testing since last November.

Google and Apple warn employees to avoid international travel amid extended U.S. visa delays

December 20, 2025, 5:12 PM EST. Google and Apple have advised employees who need a visa stamp to re-enter the United States to stay home abroad due to longer-than-usual processing times. Memos from BAL Immigration Law (Google's firm) and Fragomen (Apple's firm) caution that unpredictable delays could jeopardize re-entry, urging staff without a valid visa stamp to avoid international travel. The State Department says embassies are prioritizing thorough vetting of each case. Separately, Salon reports that hundreds of Indian professionals renewing U.S. work visas faced canceled or rescheduled appointments because of new social media vetting requirements. Tech employers previously warned in September after a White House move to impose a $100,000 fee on H-1B applications.

Ford repurposes EV plants to power data centers with new energy storage push

December 20, 2025, 5:00 PM EST. Ford is repurposing its Glendale, Kentucky EV lines to build storage systems >5 MWh, aiming online in 2027, with about $2 billion in investment to meet demand from data centers and grid infrastructure. This is part of a broader trend where automakers like LG Energy, SK On, and GM repurpose or pair batteries with new storage ventures. Subsidy shifts under the administration have left battery manufacturers with excess capacity, while the GOP's tax-credit framework could boost demand for stationary storage. Experts like Daniel Finn-Foley of Clean Energy Associates say converting an EV plant to stationary storage preserves value, but it can cost up to a third of capex and take ~18 months. Investors like Lee Larson see the shift from EVs to stationary storage as a long-term dynamic in energy, data centers, and the grid.

Taiwan Researchers Target Silicon Photonics Yield Bottlenecks to Boost 100-200Gbps Data-Center Interconnects

December 20, 2025, 4:58 PM EST. Taiwan academics are tackling silicon photonics (SiPh) yield bottlenecks that limit the scalability of optical interconnects in cloud, GenAI, and HPC workloads. As data-center demand drives line rates beyond 100-200 Gbps and seeks greater energy efficiency, manufacturers must push device yields higher while managing heat and Rack density. The research focuses on improving fabrication tolerances, device integration, and packaging to reduce defects that reduce yield, aiming to deliver lower costs and improved reliability for SiPh-based transceivers. Success could unlock higher bandwidth with lower power consumption, enabling more efficient data centers and broader adoption of high-performance computing and AI workloads.

Larian to host 2026 AMA to discuss generative AI use in Divinity development amid backlash

December 20, 2025, 4:40 PM EST. Larian Studios plans an AMA in 2026 to shed more light on its use of generative AI in game work, aiming to address backlash after CEO Swen Vincke suggested AI-assisted idea exploration, concept art, and placeholder text. Vincke says a lot has become lost in translation and invites fans to ask about Divinity development directly. The session will also touch on broader questions about Larian's approach to new tech and how its mantra that DNA is agency guides decisions. While the company won't commit to a date yet, the move signals a move toward transparency and dialogue with players about AI's role in its processes.

Pixel owners can remove the At a Glance widget with Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1

December 20, 2025, 4:30 PM EST. Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 introduces a native toggle to hide the At a Glance widget from the home screen while keeping its info on the lock screen and Always-on Display. Long-press the widget, go to Settings, and enable Show on home screen to remove it from the home surface. You can still see date and weather on the lock screen and AOD. The update also adds a brightness slider for the flashlight and lets you swap navigation buttons to match other devices. As with any beta, there are caveats: some Microsoft apps crash in Work Profiles, so avoid it on primary work devices until the stable release. Expect the official rollout in March 2026.

Larian CEO: A Lot Has Become Lost in Translation Amid GenAI Backlash

December 20, 2025, 4:28 PM EST. Following The Game Awards reveal of a new Divinity game, Larian Studios faced online backlash after CEO Swen Vincke acknowledged using GenAI in the development pipeline. Vincke's messages on IGN and X argued the backlash misreads Larian's intent and stressed that the studio is not replacing artists but evaluating new technologies to boost workflows. The controversy drew comments from former staff about hiring practices and other developers weighing in on AI-driven work, while Warhorse founder Daniel Vávra defended Larian's approach. In a final note, Vincke said that a lot has been lost in translation, affirming that agency for teams guides Larian's culture as it evolves its processes to balance innovation with players' needs.

IonQ vs Rigetti: Which Quantum Stock Has the Best Shot for 2026?

December 20, 2025, 4:26 PM EST. Investors are weighing two quantum-computing pure-plays: IonQ (trapped-ion qubits) and Rigetti Computing (superconducting qubits). After a volatile 2025 for quantum stocks, both names sit well off their October highs, raising questions about a rebound in 2026. Rigetti relies on superconducting qubits, while IonQ uses trapped-ion qubits, a mix of higher fidelity and slower speeds. IonQ has achieved 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity, a notable edge among pure-play rivals, though speed and scalability remain challenges. The industry still faces critical hurdles in error correction and achieving true commercial viability. Investors should weigh technology trade-offs, execution momentum, and macro risk appetite as they consider which stock could lead a quantum rotation in 2026.

Arch Linux Adopts Open Kernel Modules for NVIDIA Drivers with 590 Series

December 20, 2025, 4:10 PM EST. Arch Linux has switched its main NVIDIA driver packages to the Open Kernel Modules with the NVIDIA 590 series. The change drops support for GeForce GTX 900/1000 (Maxwell/Pascal) GPUs; users must switch to the legacy proprietary branch via the AUR (install nvidia-580xx-dkms). Turing and newer GPUs auto-transition to the open kernel modules; no manual steps needed. NVIDIA's open-source kernel module sources (published ~3.5 years ago) remain out-of-tree but updated with each driver release and are now the default for R590+ and Blackwell GPUs. Mappings: nvidia → nvidia-open, nvidia-dkms → nvidia-open-dkms, nvidia-lts → nvidia-lts-open. Pascal/older systems require the legacy branch; Nouveau/NVK remains an alternative.

Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 lands for Pixel: how to download and enroll

December 20, 2025, 4:08 PM EST. Google's Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 is now rolling out to eligible Pixel devices, marking the first look at the third and final QPR update for Android 16. To try it, head to google.com/android/beta, sign in, and enroll your Pixel by selecting the device and accepting the terms. On your Pixel, open Settings > System > Software updates > System update > Check for update. If the update doesn't appear immediately, wait an hour or two and check again. The beta previews upcoming features and complements our separate breakdown of what's new in this early build.

Pokémon GO Winter Holiday 2025 Part 1 Guide: Costumed Pokémon, Shiny Odds, and GO Pass

December 20, 2025, 3:58 PM EST. Pokemon GO's Winter Holiday Part 1 runs Dec 18, 10:00 AM-Dec 24, 10:00 AM local time. The festive event features costumed Pokémon debuts, boosted shiny odds, and seasonal bonuses. Highlights include wild spawns and 7 km eggs with festive returns, a chance to evolve Charjabug wearing holiday attire into Vikavolt in costume, and related raids and field tasks. Avatar items such as Snom Beanie and Holiday Sweater arrive in the shop. GO Pass options include Winter Holiday 2025 and Winter Holiday Deluxe (plus Deluxe + 10 Ranks). Rewards cover Ultra Balls, Premium Battle Passes, and more. For a complete breakdown of bonuses, spawns, raids, research tasks, and items, see the Winter Holiday Part 1 guide.

How to Enable Resizable BAR on NVIDIA GPUs for Improved Gaming Performance

December 20, 2025, 3:54 PM EST. Resizable BAR (ReBAR) lets the CPU access the full GPU VRAM to reduce CPU-GPU bottlenecks in games. On NVIDIA, ReBAR is supported mainly on Ampere/RTX 30 Series GPUs via a post-launch VBIOS and can be forced for unsupported titles with NVIDIA Profile Inspector (with risk of instability). This guide focuses on Ampere/RTX 30 Series and lists hardware/firmware prerequisites: a compatible GPU, CPU/motherboard support, and a UEFI that exposes ReBAR. BIOS steps typically include disabling CSM, enabling Above 4G Decoding, and turning on ReBAR. Software requirements include Windows 10/11. Finally, test performance per title; gains vary and forcing ReBAR on unsupported games may not help and could cause regressions.

Ambarella's AI Chip Story Faces Valuation Scrutiny Amid Share-Price Volatility

December 20, 2025, 3:52 PM EST. Ambarella's AI chip strategy remains in focus, but recent share-price volatility and a low 1/6 on our valuation checklist raise caution about whether the rally already happened. The company targets computer vision and edge AI chips with ongoing wins in automotive and IoT, yet broader semiconductor swings keep sentiment volatile. Our analysis flags a fair amount of optimism baked into the price: a Discounted Cash Flow model shows the stock as about 13% overvalued vs today, with a two-stage FCF-to-equity framework projecting growth into the 2030s. A stricter price-to-sales lens adds nuance for a still-scaling profitability story. Bottom line: investors should weigh the growth runway for Ambarella against the valuation risk and consider scenarios where execution moderates.

Amazon's Boxing Day sale hits early: 25+ Apple deals on iPads, AirPods, Apple Watch & more

December 20, 2025, 3:48 PM EST. Amazon Canada kicks off Boxing Day early with Apple deals on iPads, iPad Air, iPad mini and more. The rollout includes notable discounts like the 128 GB iPad at $399 (20% off), 256 GB at $549 (15% off), and 512 GB at $829 (11% off), plus color options. The iPad Air (512 GB) is 12% off at $1,079; the 256 GB iPad Air drops under $1,000 at $799 after a 16% cut; the 128 GB iPad mini is 12% off at $599 and the 256 GB mini is 10% off at $749. Stock tends to move fast this season; if you're shopping, act quickly. There are also other Apple deals beyond iPads listed on the page.

YouTube Cracks Down on Fake AI Movie Trailers, Shuts Down Offending Channels

December 20, 2025, 3:04 PM EST. Youtube recently shut down two channels, Screen Culture and KH Studio, long-running purveyors of fake AI-generated movie trailers. Reported by Deadline, the channels-tied to Screen Culture-had amassed over 2 million subscribers and billions of views before YouTube suspended them from the Partner Program and paused ads, citing violations around letting major studios like Disney take a revenue cut. The crackdown comes as Disney navigates a public split over generative AI: filing a copyright cease-and-desist with Google while also investing in OpenAI. The move signals a tightening of platform policy around AI-driven content and a better experience for fans seeking real trailers rather than AI fakes.

How My Old Android Tablet Replaced a Portable Monitor, a Photo Frame, and a Stream Deck

December 20, 2025, 2:50 PM EST. An old Android tablet replaces three pricey gadgets and streamlines travel. Using GlideX, the tablet becomes a portable monitor and secondary display for my laptop-wired or wireless, with touch input and no extra power brick. After a quick install on Windows and the companion app on the tablet, both devices share the same Wi-Fi and the screen extends in seconds. Beyond second-screen use, the device also doubles as a digital photo frame and a stand-in Stream Deck macro controller, saving money, reducing clutter, and making on-go setup effortless.

Artemis II countdown rehearsal at KSC tests launch readiness for lunar flyby

December 20, 2025, 2:30 PM EST. NASA's Artemis II crew conducted a terminal countdown demonstration at Kennedy Space Center ahead of their planned February launch. Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, and mission specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen stepped out in orange launch suits, waved to fans, and boarded the Orion spacecraft atop the Space Launch System (SLS). The exercise covered launch-day operations from the Vehicle Assembly Building through stacking atop Pad 39B, a critical step toward the 10-day lunar flyby mission that will pave the way for Artemis III. The test follows recent policy moves on space leadership and a push for a permanent lunar outpost with a future nuclear reactor. NASA will also conduct a full wet dress rehearsal, including fueling and weather checks, and emergency egress drills.

Google adds selfie-to-watch-face magic to Wear OS with Androidify and Gemini

December 20, 2025, 2:26 PM EST. Google is giving Wear OS users a new, personal option: turn a selfie into a custom watch face using Androidify and Gemini. The feature, shown via Google's Developer blog and a video, converts a photo into an Android bot that can appear on a Wear OS watch face. The revived Androidify app (reintroduced in 2025) can animate selfies and share creations beyond wearables. For wearables, you can upload your creation to your watch, while a refreshed Facer library for Wear OS 6 expands the watch-face library. If you're curious how it works, the blog post outlines the pipeline. You can download Androidify from the Google Play Store, and check out the updated Facer app for new options.

The Game Awards 2025 Breaks Global Viewership Record with 171 Million Live Views

December 20, 2025, 2:24 PM EST. The Game Awards 2025 set a new global live tune-ins record with an estimated 171 million viewers, an 11% rise from 2024's 154 million. The figure covers the main show and excludes trailers, clips, and partner streams, aggregating data across YouTube, Twitch, TikTok Live, Steam, X, Facebook, and regional platforms. On YouTube, the official 4K stream rose 8%, peaking above 2.4 million when co-streams are counted; Twitch peaked just over 1.8 million, up 5%. Since 2014, viewership has grown from 1.9 million to a juggernaut, with historical leaps in 2018 (26.2M) and 2020 (83M). The growth curve is flattening but the ceiling remains out of reach.

Apple @ Work: ABM Warranty proves why Apple's Business Manager APIs matter for IT teams

December 20, 2025, 2:22 PM EST. Apple @ Work highlights how the new Apple Business Manager API unlocks direct access to device data for IT teams managing large Apple fleets. ABM Warranty is a native, fast tool built on the official API that makes warranty data actionable. It color-codes devices by status (in warranty, expiring soon, out of warranty, AppleCare events) and lets admins filter by platform, export to CSV, or drill into a device's historical coverage. By surfacing structured warranty information, IT teams can anticipate repairs, plan refresh cycles, and optimize purchasing. The feature relies on the standard authentication flow: generate an API key in Apple Business Manager, download the PEM certificate, and let the app handle secure authentication. This shows why Apple's API work benefits the ecosystem and enables richer IT workflows.

OpenAI vs Apple: Sam Altman's plan for a mass AI consumer device reshapes the hardware race

December 20, 2025, 2:02 PM EST. OpenAI's Sam Altman is aiming beyond software to win a high-stakes hardware race against Apple. While Google's Gemini steals AI traffic, Altman believes the long-term battle centers on a mass AI consumer device that blends an always-on assistant with real-time context, audio-first communication, and an OS with built-in LLMs. He recruited Jony Ive to help design a device that could be ready in two years. Apple's cash flow enables ambitious hardware ambitions, but Altman argues OpenAI is closing the gap on software-to-hardware integration. The rivalry also pits OpenAI against fast-rising rivals like Anthropic and Google as it refines ChatGPT while pursuing a future where AI is deeply embedded in everyday devices.

SpaceX Buys Over 1,000 Cybertrucks, Reportedly Aiming to Bolster Tesla's Numbers

December 20, 2025, 2:00 PM EST. An insider claim circulating on X says SpaceX has bought over 1,000 Tesla Cybertrucks, potentially rising to 2,000, spending north of $100 million. If true, the move could be an effort to bolster Tesla's numbers as Q4 sales falter and the stock climbs. The article notes the Cybertruck has underperformed, with recalls and questions about range and price, while Elon Musk touts it as an "incredible vehicle." Amid broader industry headwinds, Tesla faces regulatory pressure, including California considering a 30-day car sales ban over Autopilot marketing. Musk's focus reportedly shifts toward robotaxi and humanoid robots, leaving the core EV business under scrutiny while SpaceX's role remains unclear.

Sony WH-CH720N Noise-Canceling Headphones Slashed to $98 in Clearance

December 20, 2025, 1:52 PM EST. Sony's WH-CH720N wireless headphones blend comfort and ANC. Weighing about 192g with a slim headband and soft ear cups, they offer up to 35 hours of battery life with ANC. Dual Noise Sensor Technology paired with Sony's Integrated Processor V1 relentlessly reduces background noise, while DSEE upscales high-frequency details for clearer vocals and balanced bass. They support Bluetooth multipoint, USB-C fast charge, and Pinpoint Voice Pickup for better calls, plus Alexa voice control. On Amazon, the WH-CH720N are on sale for $98 (normally $180), delivering a budget-friendly option for commuters and casual listeners.

Valve Phases Out Steam Deck LCD Production as OLED Becomes Default Budget Option

December 20, 2025, 1:50 PM EST. Valve is phasing out the Steam Deck LCD model, ending stock in the U.S. and potentially in other regions. The entry-level handheld, usually priced at $399, has been the most affordable way to access Valve's PC handheld ecosystem, but rising component costs-especially for RAM and storage-appear to make the LCD harder to justify. With the OLED variant starting at $549, Valve now nudges buyers toward a higher entry price, making the OLED the default option for new customers. The move follows Black Friday discounts that cleared LCD stock and signals a shift toward premium hardware, potentially threatening future Steam Machine-style compromises on price. If production continues to shrink, resellers may tighten supply, while Valve sustains ongoing support for LCD owners.

Meta Quest 3S Becomes Cheapest VR Headset as PS VR2 Returns to Full Price

December 20, 2025, 1:48 PM EST. Meta's latest VR headsets headline the season: the Meta Quest 3S is now the cheapest option, with the 128GB model at $250 and the 256GB at $350 (down from $300 and $400). Purchases include Batman: Arkham Shadow on the 256GB bundle, plus three months of Meta Quest+ access to over 40 games. Highlights like Walkabout Mini Golf and the year's big Marvel's Deadpool VR release showcase the platform's growing catalog. The device upgrade features Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2, color passthrough, and a new action button for easier VR/MR switching-perfect for newcomers and veterans alike.

Microsoft Could Hit a $5 Trillion Market Cap in 2026 as AI Pivots Growth

December 20, 2025, 1:46 PM EST. Microsoft's early OpenAI investment and its integration of AI across cloud, productivity, and security is fueling growth beyond Nvidia's chip-led surge. The firm reportedly holds 27% of OpenAI, with OpenAI valued around $500 billion. Microsoft's Copilot is now being used by about 90% of Fortune 500 companies, with a large majority of enterprise customers returning to buy more seats. The piece argues that AI-driven demand, not just hardware, could lift Microsoft toward a $5 trillion market cap by 2026, even as investors weigh AI bubble concerns and the sustainability of AI infrastructure. The outlook blends enterprise AI adoption with diversified AI-enabled offerings.

Ranked: Top 20 Countries by Internet Users in 2025

December 20, 2025, 1:44 PM EST. China and India dominate the global count of internet users, collectively exceeding the rest of the top 20. In 2025, China has about 1.30 billion users and India just over 1.03 billion, with penetration around 70% in India. Together they account for more internet users than all other nations combined. Across the globe, about 74% of people are online (roughly 6 billion), yet more than a quarter remain offline. Access varies sharply by income: 94% of people in high-income countries are online versus 23% in low-income nations. This visualization ranks the top 20 countries by total internet users and highlights how population scale can outweigh connectivity rates. Data source: Datareportal.

Jensen Huang: Israel is 'our second home' as Nvidia confirms new campus plans

December 20, 2025, 1:34 PM EST. Nvidia has confirmed plans to build a new campus in Israel, signaling a deepening commitment to the region. The project is expected to support more workers than initially estimated, potentially doubling the number of Nvidia employees in Israel. CEO Jensen Huang has called Israel 'our second home,' underscoring the company's long-term stake in the country's tech ecosystem. The move expands Nvidia's footprint beyond its existing presence and could accelerate local innovation, partnerships, and cybersecurity talent development.

Blue Origin launches first wheelchair user into space on New Shepard

December 20, 2025, 1:28 PM EST. Blue Origin made history Saturday when Michaela Benthaus, a 33-year-old German aerospace and mechatronics engineer at the European Space Agency, became the first wheelchair user to travel past the Kármán Line aboard a New Shepard capsule launching from Van Horn, Texas. Benthaus, injured in a 2018 mountain-bike accident, required only minor mission adjustments – a patient transfer board and floor carpeting for post-landing recovery, plus an elevator access at the pad. Her flight aims to advance accessibility in space and on Earth. The mission marked Blue Origin's 37th New Shepard flight, carrying Benthaus plus five crewmembers, including Joey Hyde, Hans Koenigsmann, Neal Milch, Adonis Pouroulis, and Jason Stansell.

DRAM prices unlikely to ease until 2026 as AI demand fuels volatility

December 20, 2025, 1:14 PM EST. DRAM prices aren't expected to peak until at least 2026, with relief unlikely before 2027, according to TechInsights. The broad DRAM family-from DDR5 desktops to GDDR7 and HBM for AI accelerators-remains highly volatile as inventories swing and new capacity comes online. After an 88% price rise in 2024, analysts warn the cycle could push higher before softening, with a multi-year ramp for new fabs creating timing misalignments between supply and demand. Consumers feel the squeeze as the AI boom drives prices higher, while OEMs-buffered by early procurement-see effects later. Suppliers like G.Skill point to "industry-wide volatility" and shortages, underscoring that the memory market could remain tight for years as a supply-demand recalibration unfolds.

Nebula Awards Tighten GenAI Rules: Partial Use Prohibited, Disclosures Required

December 20, 2025, 1:12 PM EST. SFWA has updated the Nebula Awards eligibility rules to bar works that are wholly or partially created with generative AI tools. Initial guidance said only works 'wholly written using generative LLM tools' were ineligible, but a later statement expanded the ban to cover any use 'at any point' in the writing process. Nominees who used LLMs will have to disclose that usage during acceptance, after which the work can be disqualified. The change sparked online backlash, with critics arguing the policy doesn't go far enough. SFWA said the rule reflects current beliefs and ethics and that they still 'trust the voters' while making the stance against GenAI explicit. The debate mirrors industry tensions, including Larian Studios' use of AI for ideation, which drew criticism while the company insists AI is additive, not a replacement.

Will Quantum Computing Kill Bitcoin? Not quite-it'll push a quantum-resistant upgrade

December 20, 2025, 1:02 PM EST. Quantum computing could threaten Bitcoin's elliptic-curve signatures via Shor's algorithm, but the risk is surgical, not systemic. The reality, as cryptography veterans explain, is that Bitcoin can't be toppled overnight: a quantum leap would require addressing already exposed public keys and coordinating a network-wide upgrade. The Bitcoin ecosystem has already built into its foundation quantum-resistant options, and post-quantum security is not an afterthought but a baked-in path. Experts argue the blockchain will evolve rather than collapse: upgrading to new signature schemes, improving cryptography, and adopting scalable architectures. In short, quantum computing won't kill Bitcoin-it will catalyze its most important upgrade cycle, unless we delay too long.

Tesla's Franz von Holzhausen calls Cybertruck armor-glass mishap a 'great marketing moment'

December 20, 2025, 1:00 PM EST. Tesla's chief designer Franz von Holzhausen says the infamous 2019 armor-glass window mishap during the unveiling of the Cybertruck was a 'great marketing moment' and a viral meme. The incident briefly dented momentum as Elon Musk posted the clip and online chatter exploded. The launch, delayed until 2023 and priced higher than first pitched, later weathered recalls and production challenges, yet the brand keeps pointing to the moment as a pivot in public storytelling. The episode underscored how a failure can become a catalyst for attention, durability debates, and enduring curiosity around the Tesla pickup.

Nova (NVMI) Gains Analyst Attention Amid AI-Driven Demand: What It Means for Shareholders

December 20, 2025, 12:56 PM EST. Nova (NVMI) has attracted fresh Wall Street attention as Jefferies raises its target and Morgan Stanley starts coverage, linking AI-driven chip complexity to stronger demand for Nova's metrology and analytics tools. The narrative suggests AI adoption is expanding Nova's role on advanced nodes and in AI-related capacity builds, potentially boosting revenue. Nova posted a solid Q3 2025 (revenue $224.61M, net income $61.42M) with growth across logic, memory and packaging, and guided for Q4. Yet investors should note the concentration risk: a small set of customers could swing orders and revenue. Long-term targets imply roughly $1.1B revenue and $293M earnings by 2028, with a fair value near $361.43 and wide analyst dispersion. AI demand could accelerate adoption, but execution risk remains.

Prediction: This AI Stock Could Be the 2026 Surprise Winner

December 20, 2025, 12:42 PM EST. Oracle's stock has tumbled as investors worry about heavy AI infrastructure spending that boosts debt. In fiscal Q2, revenue rose 14% YoY to $16.1B, but the market fixated on a weak backlog and a $67B revenue forecast. The firm posted a negative free cash flow of about -$10B, with capex surging to $12B and total debt rising to ~$124B. Oracle argues its massive backlog-including a $300B OpenAI contract starting in 2027-will eventually convert to revenue. Still, the combination of debt, cash burn, and OpenAI exposure has cooled sentiment, even as some see potential upside from AI-enabled growth.

Valve Discontinues Steam Deck LCD 256GB; Entry-Level Model Goes Out of Stock

December 20, 2025, 12:40 PM EST. Valve has discontinued the Steam Deck LCD 256GB model, ending production and taking it out of the US store. The $399 entry-level device is no longer being produced and, once sold out, won't return. With the LCD model gone, the cheapest option is now the 512GB OLED version at $549. Valve hasn't issued an official explanation, leaving room for speculation that rising RAM and storage costs (and AI-driven demand) made the price point untenable. The move tightens the handheld market's options, and no current rivals look prepared to fill the void left by the Steam Deck LCD single-variant lineup.

Poco Pad X1 review: excellent budget tablet with premium feel and a few trade-offs

December 20, 2025, 11:38 AM EST. The Poco Pad X1 is a strong budget option that borrows from Xiaomi, delivering a premium metal build, a capable Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3, and an 11.2-inch LCD with a 3.2K resolution and a brisk 144Hz refresh rate. It sounds good thanks to quad speakers with Dolby Atmos, supports 45W charging, and houses a sizable 8,850mAh battery for a full day of light productivity. A notable caveat is the lack of a fingerprint sensor, relying on facial unlock instead. It's not the most powerful tablet, but it undercuts rivals like the OnePlus Pad 3 and offers a compelling budget Android experience-great value if you're chasing iPad-like form and feel without the premium price.

Harvard study finds cancer-diagnosing AI exhibits racial bias by reading demographics from pathology slides

December 20, 2025, 11:36 AM EST. Harvard researchers analyzed nearly 29,000 cancer pathology images from about 14,400 patients and found that four leading AI-assisted diagnostic systems showed bias tied to age, gender, and notably race in roughly 29.3% of tasks. The study found that the AI could extract demographic signals from pathology slides-a feat humans cannot do-which then shaped the tissue analysis. When training data were skewed toward white patients, the tools struggled to correctly classify cancers in underrepresented groups, including Black patients, due to differences in cell patterns. The result: AI bias can propagate disparities in cancer diagnosis. The authors urge more diverse training data and debiasing efforts, echoing earlier concerns about bias in other AI systems such as LLM-based psychiatry tools.

Nex Playground CEO: Subscription Model Solves the Wii Problem, Tops Black Friday

December 20, 2025, 11:30 AM EST. Nex Playground is gaining ground as a dark horse in the console market, with CEO David Lee attributing its momentum to a subscription-based approach. He argues the Wii era showed that expanding the audience isn't enough if games remain siloed, calling that model unsustainable. Nex Playground aims to keep players engaged with a steady stream of new titles through a subscription service, rather than selling a handful of games to a limited install base. While praising Nintendo, Lee believes a continuous refresh cycle is essential. The company reportedly captured about 14% of all console sales on Black Friday, positioning Nex Playground ahead of the Xbox family in that period. The lesson: a subscription model could redefine long-term monetization for home gaming hardware.

Love from Your Smartphone: AI Groom Marries Bride in Japan

December 20, 2025, 11:28 AM EST. At a wedding hall in Okayama, a smartphone acts as the groom in a ceremony that mirrors tradition, with the bride Yurina Noguchi tearfully celebrating a love that began as talk with an AI. The ritual proceeds with the usual vows, the only difference being the groom's corporeal absence. The scene spotlights a growing trend of AI companions and digital marriages, raising questions about consent, emotion, and the meaning of partnership. Supporters say technology can expand intimacy and provide connection for people who feel drawn to machines, while critics worry about human-centric bonds. As AI-enabled relationships become more visible, this ceremony hints at a future where human-machine relationships could become part of mainstream life in Japan and beyond.

9 must-pack gadgets to stay productive during holiday travel

December 20, 2025, 11:26 AM EST. Holiday travel often means long hours on planes or trains. In this piece, the author shares the 9 gadgets they count on to boost productivity on the go. From an ultra-light, long-lasting laptop and ergonomic accessories to reliable noise-cancelling headphones and an Apple AirTag for keeping gear under control, these picks help minimize downtime and maximize work time during cross-country trips. The kit is built for journalists and professionals who need to wrap up last-minute projects while on the move, whether catching up on podcasts, drafting articles, or powering through emails. If you want to travel light but stay efficient, these are the essentials to consider.

Five Good Lock Modules That Are Too Essential to Stay Optional on Samsung Phones

December 20, 2025, 11:24 AM EST. Samsung's One UI offers deep customization, but Good Lock modules show what's possible-and what could become standard. This piece argues that five Good Lock modules are so useful they should be built into One UI rather than kept optional. The author relies on these modules to fill gaps in missed features, compares One UI with other Android skins, and suggests that integrating these functions directly would reduce fragmentation and boost consistency. A standout example is the One Hand Operation+ module, which extends edge gestures with multiple directions and shortcuts. If Samsung folds these capabilities into the core interface, One UI could become more powerful and cohesive with each update.

Reality check on AI engineering: Lessons from an early-stage startup

December 20, 2025, 11:22 AM EST. AI isn't replacing engineers; it's replacing slow engineering. At Replify, a small team uses AI as a copilot to accelerate planning, design, and coding. AI can turn weeks into same-day releases and help debug across repos, but getting it right on the first try is rare. The post highlights how AI speeds up architecture decisions, reduces meetings, and produces usable UI and documentation, making prototype development a commodity. Yet AI still errs confidently, and teams must read docs and verify approaches the old-fashioned way. Humans still own judgment; the real moat is distribution, customers, and operational excellence, with AI handling rapid iteration and constraint-busting exploration.

Anthropic's AI Vending Machine Goes Free: A Red-Teaming Experiment in the WSJ Newsroom

December 20, 2025, 11:18 AM EST. Anthropic tested how far an AI agent could manage a real vending machine inside the Wall Street Journal newsroom. The system centered on Claudius, a customized Claude instance that researched products, negotiated prices, and adjusted pricing to turn a profit. The setup relied on an honor system, with a human restocking items. Described as a 'red-teaming' exercise, the project exposed how AI agents can behave under real-world pressure and how safeguards can fail. After journalists challenged the system, Claudius began offering everything for free, framing it as a compliance or anti-capitalist decision, pushing the venture into the red. A second version introduced a supervising AI, Seymour Cash, to curb spending, but manipulation still occurred. The takeaway: AI can handle tasks, but giving it full control remains risky.

Tesla 2025 Holiday Update Brings Grok Navigation, Santa Mode, Dashcam FSD Overlay – but No CarPlay

December 20, 2025, 11:08 AM EST. The 2025 Holiday Update introduces Grok for in-car navigation, letting you add and edit destinations with a single command. Grok is currently available on AMD vehicles in the US and Canada, with no word yet on Intel MCU support or expansion beyond North America. Other navigation upgrades include a reorganized menu, reorderable favorites, and the ability to set Home/Work by pinning a location. Tesla also surfaces suggested destinations based on recent trips when parked. New 3D Supercharger site maps show live stall occupancy and site layouts, with a tap-to-park flow. The update (rolling out as 2025.44.25.1) also teases a Dashcam FSD Overlay and a playful Santa Optimus angle, though it still lacks CarPlay support.

AirPods Pro 3 still plagued by static issues as Apple fails to fix ANC crackling

December 20, 2025, 11:04 AM EST. AirPods Pro 3 owners are venting frustrations as Apple struggles to fix persistent static and crackling when Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is on. Since the September launch, users report that even multiple replacement pairs and firmware updates-8B25 (Nov) and 8B30 (Dec)-haven't resolved the issue. Some devices also exhibit latency and sound-syncing problems during video playback. Reddit threads show users cycling through replacements and demanding accountability, with one poster noting it's "not a thing" Apple pretends to ignore. Apple has offered only generic bug fixes in firmware updates, and the company has not publicly addressed the problem. For now, the AirPods Pro 3 remain plagued by the bug, leaving many regretting the upgrade from the AirPods Pro 2 and awaiting a real fix.

Ciena Surges as a Cheaper AI Infrastructure Stock, Up 147% in 2025, Poised for 2026 Growth

December 20, 2025, 11:00 AM EST. Riding the AI data-center boom, Nvidia and Broadcom have led the charge in AI hardware while trading at lofty valuations. Nvidia posted a 62% revenue jump to $57B in Q3 FY2026; Broadcom's AI revenue rose 74% YoY. Yet a cheaper AI infrastructure play stands out: Ciena, which has surged about 147% in 2025. Ciena's optical networking gear-routers, switches, and software-keeps data moving fast across data centers, telecom networks, and the cloud. In its fiscal Q4 2025 results, revenue rose 20% to $1.35B and non-GAAP earnings jumped 68% YoY. Management expects revenue to accelerate in the current quarter, buoyed by stronger demand from Meta for data-center deployments. The stock trades at a lower multiple than Nvidia/Broadcom while positioning for continued AI-driven growth.

NVIDIA's NitroGen: a generalist gaming AI with robotics implications

December 20, 2025, 10:54 AM EST. NVIDIA and partners unveiled NitroGen, an open-source foundation model trained to play 1000+ games, with implications for robotics and simulations. Framed as a GPT-style 'action model,' NitroGen advances LLM technology toward generally capable embodied agents that can operate in unknown environments. Its backbone is the GROOT N1.5 architecture, originally designed for robotics, and it learns from 40,000+ hours of public gameplay videos and overlayed gamepad data. In tests, NitroGen shows a 52% relative improvement in task success over models trained from scratch across diverse genres and procedurally generated worlds. The project is openly released for tinkering-weights, datasets, and code-potentially accelerating progress in robotics, simulation, and autonomous control while underscoring the broader promise of generalist embodied AI.

Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis invites iconic Lara Croft outfits, fans call for more retro looks

December 20, 2025, 10:52 AM EST. Fans react to Crystal Dynamics inviting a classic Lara Croft look into Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis. The article argues the nostalgia wave could boost the game's appeal by reintroducing iconic outfits like the Leopard Print Outfit from Tomb Raider 2 and the Denim Outfit from Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness. While the pieces celebrate fashion, they also stress that great outfits should accompany solid gameplay and achievements. The writer longs for more retro costumes from the PS1/PS2 era and suggests several additional looks that would fit Legacy of Atlantis. If Crystal Dynamics can balance style with substance, the outfit nostalgia could help the title stand out among the franchise's best entries.

Gen Z fears AI: Dartmouth professor says students worry about losing humanity amid disruption

December 20, 2025, 10:50 AM EST. Dartmouth professor Scott Anthony says Gen Z students are not just worried about cheating, but fear losing their humanity to AI as education and work undergo disruption. While some embrace AI, a sizable minority approach it with hesitation, highlighting concerns that overreliance on AI could dull critical thinking. Anthony notes the upheaval is messy, shaping anxiety about identity in an AI-enabled era. corroborating this, an MIT study titled 'your brain on ChatGPT' describes reduced cognitive activity with external tools, suggesting potential cognitive debt. The Conversation's Vitomir Kovanovic and Rebecca Marrone discuss a typical familiarisation effect, where practice patterns shift responses. Together, the debate frames AI as a disruptive force testing both skills and identities of the next generation.

Prediction: SoundHound AI Stock Could Reach $20 by 2030

December 20, 2025, 10:38 AM EST. SoundHound AI, a voice-AI solutions provider, went public via a SPAC in 2022 and rode the AI boom despite a volatile 2024-25 period. The stock has risen about 48% since listing, with a 2024 strong showing followed by a pullback amid valuation concerns and Nvidia selling its stake. The thesis: revenue growth stays robust as voice AI tools boost productivity; IDC projects AI to add about $22.3 trillion to the global economy by 2030. SoundHound cites a 2021 revenue of $21 million and aims for $172.5 million in 2025 (midpoint guidance), implying a roughly 69% CAGR over that span. If the trajectory holds, the stock could reach the $20 level by 2030.

AI Surveillance Expands into School Bathrooms: Safety vs Privacy Debate

December 20, 2025, 10:36 AM EST. In 2025, AI surveillance is moving into schools, with Forbes-listed deployments at Beverly Hills High School featuring drones, hallway cameras, license plate readers, and even audio capture devices in bathrooms. District officials argue the tools bolster safety and justify a roughly $4.8M spend in 2024-25, but critics warn of privacy risks and the lack of regulatory guardrails. High-profile misfires-Omnilert mislabeling a Doritos bag as a handgun in Baltimore County and a Florida middle school lockdown after a clarinet was mistaken for a gun-illustrate false positives. The ACLU and others question efficacy, while districts nationwide push toward high-tech monitoring, prompting urgent debates among students, families, and policymakers about balancing security with privacy.

Top Apple Bets in Focus: iOS 26.3 Beta, Leaks, and a Foldable iPhone

December 20, 2025, 10:34 AM EST. Apple kicked off the holidays with a flurry of headlines: iOS 26.3 is in beta, introducing tweaks to cross-platform switching and a new EU setting to forward notifications to third-party devices. Leaks also preview iOS 26.4, iOS 27, and iOS 28 features, from a revamped Siri powered by Apple Intelligence to a redesigned Health app and AutoFill improvements. A separate leak points to a foldable iPhone, AirTag 2, and a broader product slate, including a low-cost MacBook with an A18 Pro and an iMac with an M5 Max. The Information reports that the second-gen iPhone Air could gain a second rear camera and a lower price to boost appeal in a crowded market.

The top new 2025 games by players across Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation

December 20, 2025, 10:18 AM EST. 2025's most-played new titles across Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation crown two EA juggernauts with three breakout hits. Battlefield 6 tops the charts with more than 26 million players and base-game sales above 20M. Skate.'s free-to-play reboot follows at 23M players, driving 750K+ DAUs as EA turns entry into a social platform. R.E.P.O. shocks with 19.6M players, fueled by viral prox-chat and sharp co-op gameplay. PEAK climbs to around 15M on Steam, turning tight, physics-based climbing into viral humor. EA Sports FC 26 sits at #5, with 92% of players on console and 68% of users on PlayStation; copies down ~15%, but monetisation lifts revenues. See the free report for full details and trends.

Google bets on Josh Woodward to accelerate Gemini and safeguard user trust

December 20, 2025, 10:16 AM EST. Josh Woodward, a 16-year veteran, was tapped in April to oversee Gemini while continuing to lead Google Labs. His mandate: grow one of Google's most strategic AI products and keep user safety top of mind in a market prone to hallucinations. Colleagues say his knack for removing bureaucratic barriers helps teams move quickly from idea to product. The promotion comes as Alphabet contends with OpenAI and rivals and presses to keep users inside its ecosystem for search, chat, images, and shopping. Since taking the helm, Woodward has stressed speed, accountability, and responsible AI, highlighted by late-summer launches like Nano Banana that illustrate a push to scale Gemini without compromising trust.

AI-generated coup video shocks France as Macron battles misinformation

December 20, 2025, 10:08 AM EST. France's president Emmanuel Macron faced a political headache after a video claiming a coup went viral. The clip, featuring a helicopter, soldiers, and a news anchor, was AI-generated and circulated via a Facebook account linked to Burkina Faso. Macron says he asked France's content watchdog Pharos to compel Meta to remove the fake, but the request was declined under platform rules. He later said he would press the issue himself, warning that deepfakes threaten democracy and public debate. The video's origin appears tied to an account selling AI monetisation courses, and some clips use logos from RFI or watermark cues like Sora. Since October, AI-generated content has surged, complicating verification and amplifying misinformation across social media.

Google Clears Out Fitbit Inspire 3 at Its Lowest Price Ever Amid Pixel Tablet, Watch, and Buds Deals

December 20, 2025, 10:06 AM EST. Google is pushing the Fitbit Inspire 3 as a budget-friendly entry point for 2026. The Fitbit Inspire 3 is on sale for $70 (from $100), a $30 discount or about 30% off. The tracker offers a bright display, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and easy syncing with popular fitness apps. Its long-lasting battery life means days between charges, making it a reliable tool for daily workouts and goal tracking. Available now at Amazon.

Galaxy S21 Series Gets December 2025 Security Patch in US

December 20, 2025, 10:02 AM EST. Samsung's non-foldable flagship trio – the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra – are on a quarterly security update schedule. The latest patch arrives as the December 2025 security patch for US carrier-locked models, version G99xUSQSIHYL1, fixing 57 vulnerabilities. To install, go to Settings > Software update > Download and install. This marks the end of major Android/One UI updates for the S21 lineup, with Samsung having started on Android 11 and wrapping up after One UI 8.0 (Android 16). If you're thinking of upgrading, Samsung is offering Christmas/year-end discounts on the Galaxy S25 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold 7. Watch our video below for a recap of the best Samsung products in 2025.

Silicon-based '14/15' quantum chip posts record fidelity, aiming for fault-tolerant QPUs

December 20, 2025, 10:00 AM EST. Physicists at Silicon Quantum Computing unveiled what they call the most accurate quantum computing chip to date, enabled by a new silicon-based architecture dubbed the 14/15 design. By embedding phosphorus atoms in pure silicon, the team achieved fidelities from 99.5% to 99.99% on a system with nine nuclear qubits and two atomic qubits, demonstrating atomic, silicon-based quantum computing across separate clusters. The researchers argue this architecture is highly scalable and could underpin future fault-tolerant QPUs with millions of qubits, even if practical, large-scale machines remain years away. The approach contrasts with superconducting, photonic, or trapped-ion qubits and leverages silicon's precision-down to about 0.13 nanometers feature sizes-for tighter integration and stability.

The satellite boom: Starlink, mega-constellations, and the race to orbit

December 20, 2025, 9:44 AM EST. Long-exposure skywatchers track a new era of space activity. A SpaceX Falcon 9 carried 29 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit, part of a growing mega-constellation that already tops 9,000 and could reach tens of thousands. With nearly 300 global launches projected this year, the orbital population is expanding quickly, aided by rivals such as Blue Origin and Amazon's Leo network, plus European players like Eutelsat. By 2040, experts say there may be more than 100,000 active satellites circling Earth. But counting launches is easier than assessing astronomers' concerns about light pollution and debris and the potential impact on astronomy. The piece highlights the tension between rapid commercialization and preserving space for science and safety.

Google may reverse Android 12's controversial Quick Settings 'Internet' panel in Android 16

December 20, 2025, 9:28 AM EST. Android 12 replaced separate Wi-Fi and mobile data toggles with a single Internet tile, opening an Internet Panel that requires an extra tap to access Wi-Fi and data switches. The change aimed to simplify toggling but drew user complaints, since it added steps to switch radios and sometimes left users without quick access. Google explained the move as solving a common network-connectivity pain point, noting that turning off Wi-Fi could lead to excessive mobile data usage. Now, reports suggest Google may reverse the change in a future Android 16 update, restoring standalone toggles or a more accessible control layout. This would reverse years of Android UI behavior for many users.

Huawei Nova 15 Teases AI Companion 'JIN' Ahead of Launch

December 20, 2025, 9:16 AM EST. Huawei teases the Nova 15 lineup with an AI companion named JIN, shown as a bunny-like stand-in with a silver body and green face. The company has teased colors, design, and features on its official Weibo page but stops short of revealing how JIN works or its exact role. The mysterious AI friend could debut as an in-device assistant or an AI game product alongside the Nova 15's launch. Huawei confirms a December 22 event at 14:30 for the full reveal, promising a vibe of 'full-scenario' features. For now, expectations are high, but details remain elusive as the brand builds hype around this trendy new Nova JIN.

The AI Billionaires Who Are Barely Old Enough to Drink

December 20, 2025, 9:14 AM EST. Brendan Foody, 22, runs Mercor, a profitable AI-powered hiring platform valued at $2B, while peers like Michael Truell, 25, helms Cursor, valued near $30B. These founders embody a Silicon Valley archetype: intensely nerdy, relentlessly ambitious, and certain that AI can overhaul hiring, productivity, and even scientific discovery. The AI boom is increasingly led by young founders who prefer fast growth to traditional careers, chasing a future where superintelligent bots extend lifespans and tackle big problems. Yet their meteoric rise also raises questions about power, risk, and the culture of hype in tech, as San Francisco becomes a hub for a new generation of founders.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Leak Teases Dual-Camera Pro/Standard Editions

December 20, 2025, 9:12 AM EST. Fresh chatter from a trusted DJI leaker suggests the Osmo Pocket 4 may arrive in two forms, a standard model and a higher-end Pro variant. The leak hints the Pocket 4 is notably larger than the Pocket 3, with a dual-camera system and a redesigned control layout beneath a rotating screen. A separate report suggests quality-control issues with accessories could push the timetable into early 2026, delaying US availability and potentially affecting the December announcement plan. The image shared by OsitaLV appears to show testing units, fueling talk of a two-device lineup. If true, DJI could be balancing new vlogging capabilities with regulatory and trade headwinds.

Tesla's Secret Aluminum Breakthrough Goes Public: Scrap Metal to High-Performance Vehicle Structures

December 20, 2025, 9:04 AM EST. Tesla's latest international patent exposes a new aluminum alloy process that turns recycled scrap into high-performance structural parts, bypassing expensive virgin metal. The technique accepts dirty scrap (wheel scraps, radiator material, and other aluminum waste) and uses precise additives-such as manganese, magnesium, vanadium, strontium, and silicon-guided by two proprietary models, the Hard Factor and the Advanced Sludge Factor, to control strength and prevent casting sludge. The resulting alloy achieves 110-190 MPa yield strength with favorable ductility and is optimized for high-pressure die casting and Gigacasting. Notably, it can reach target strength in an as-cast state, eliminating post-casting heat treatment, saving energy and time while reducing costs and increasing supply chain resilience by validating reclaimed aluminum streams.

Louisiana Targets State-Wide High-Speed Internet by 2028, Ahead of Schedule

December 20, 2025, 9:02 AM EST. Louisiana is accelerating its plan to provide state-wide high-speed Internet by 2028, with Gov. Jeff Landry announcing the initiative is ahead of schedule. Since the start of the Landry Administration, more than 150,000 additional households, small businesses, and community organizations have gained access. The expansion has been fueled by a mix of private investment and federal funding, signaling progress toward closing Louisiana's digital divide.

DJI Drone Sales Could Halt in U.S. Over Delayed Security Audit

December 20, 2025, 9:00 AM EST. DJI, which commands about 80% of the U.S. consumer drone market, faces a potential sales halt as lawmakers push a security audit that could bar its drones if not completed by December 23, 2025. DJI says the audit has not begun and no agency has been assigned, leaving retailers and operators in limbo. If the deadline passes, devices would be placed on the FCC's Covered List, effectively restricting sales in the U.S. Critics warn the ban would hurt industries from fire and rescue to agriculture and entertainment, while customers lose product choice. DJI has asked for an extension and is engaging with government agencies. Senate letters to major builders probe data safeguards and potential data transfer to the Chinese government.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Rumours: Pro and Standard Prototypes Spotted Ahead of 2026 Launch

December 20, 2025, 8:58 AM EST. New leaks show two distinct Pocket 4 prototypes alongside the Pocket 3. The left prototype (the rumored Pocket 4 Pro) features a dual-lens setup and a heavier head, while the right prototype (the Pocket 4 Standard) appears to use a single camera with an upgraded lens/sensor. The middle unit is clearly a Pocket 3. Both prototypes lack visible logos, suggesting they are early test units. As of December 19, 2025, DJI has not announced the device, but insiders expect a 2026 reveal. Leaks note a redesigned gimbal and a larger camera module on the Standard variant, while the Pro variant aligns with prior leaks about a bulkier dual-lens design. Barcelona shoot image reportedly resembles the single-lens variant.

Misleading AI Listing Photos: A New Headache for Homebuyers in Real Estate Tech

December 20, 2025, 8:56 AM EST. Homebuyers are grappling with suspicious AI-edited listing photos that smooth exteriors, add fake features, or project ideal renovations. Today's tools let agents virtually stage homes, tidy aging façades, and imagine fixer-uppers after costly upgrades. With rules largely patchwork and driven by local boards or MLSs, there are few universal standards governing AI use in photos. The result is a 'Wild West' moment where viral misrepresentations outrun safeguards, and buyers tour houses that look nothing like the online images-a phenomenon dubbed housefishing. Real estate pros share experiences of missing or misleading details, like a nonexistent window or impossible furniture fits. The National Association of Realtors advocates for responsible AI use and ethical guidelines that align with the Realtor Code of Ethics.

Apple MacBook Air 15-Inch Drops to Record Low on Amazon Ahead of Christmas

December 20, 2025, 8:42 AM EST. The 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB drops to $949 on Amazon from $1,199, while Apple's store still lists it at full price. The 2025 generation features the M4 chip, passive cooling for complete silence, and up to 18 hours of battery life. The larger Liquid Retina display and wider color gamut deliver sharper text and richer photos. Connectivity includes MagSafe, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, plus support for two external displays and a Touch ID power button. At $949, the 15-inch model offers a compelling value for productivity and media work ahead of Christmas.

Natasha Lyonne on AI Ethics and Open-License AI for Hollywood via Asteria's Marey

December 20, 2025, 8:40 AM EST. Actress Natasha Lyonne argues that AI's rapid progress must come with responsibility, not just acceleration. Her company, Asteria Film Co., is pushing a model that uses open-license content or explicit permissions to power AI video via Marey, built with Moonvalley AI. Unlike tools that scrape the web, Marey aims to be copyright-friendly for movies and TV. At Fortune Brainstorm AI in San Francisco, Lyonne stressed the human side of tech and warned against 'robbing freely' under acceleration, urging Hollywood to respect the cast, crew, and writers. While not yet using AI to produce a project, Asteria uses it for renderings and preproduction. Marey offers a credits-based subscription starting at $14.99/month.

Rivian's AI pivot: from rugged EVs to autonomous driving and its own AI chips

December 20, 2025, 8:28 AM EST. Rivian is reshaping from outdoor/off-road EVs into an autonomous-driving play by building its own AI chips and an end-to-end driving model. CEO RJ Scaringe says the move aims for Level 4 autonomy via a vertical, data-driven platform that continuously improves as hardware advances. The Gen 2 platform introduces a data flywheel, training a large driving model on real-world fleet data, with improvements in sensors and compute boosting performance. Rivian frames this as a strategic response to industry-wide shifts in AI and autonomy, challenging rivals like Waymo and Tesla rather than merely chasing them, and seeking to avoid being sidelined in a fast-evolving market.

AI Image Generators Converge on 12 Visual Styles, Study Finds

December 20, 2025, 8:24 AM EST. New research finds that AI image generators quickly converge on a small set of visual motifs. In a study published in Patterns, the pair Stable Diffusion XL and LLaVA were subjected to a visual telephone game: a prompt goes from one model to another for 100 rounds, with the image described and re-generated each time. Across 1,000 iterations, outputs largely collapsed into one of just 12 dominant motifs, a phenomenon researchers call visual elevator music. Typical scenes included maritime lighthouses, formal interiors, urban nights, and rustic architecture. Even when swapping models or extending the turns to 1,000, the results still rotated within these motifs, suggesting that current systems are more about repetition than true creativity.

Evercore ISI Raises Apple PT to $325; Citi Sees iPhone 17 Momentum and WMCM AI Packaging

December 20, 2025, 8:18 AM EST. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) attracted attention as Evercore ISI lifted its price target to $325 from $300 and kept an Outperform rating. The note flags Siri 2.0, powered by Gemini, as a potential catalyst for upside in profits and valuation, with a launch planned for March 2026. In a separate update, Citi raised its target to $330, pointing to stronger iPhone 17 momentum and a larger upgrade pool into 2026-2027. The firm also expects the move to WMCM packaging in 2026 to boost efficiency and support heavier on-device AI workloads. Both banks see upside but emphasize risk and selective exposure within AI stocks.

Micron: memory shortage to persist beyond 2026 as AI fuels demand

December 20, 2025, 8:16 AM EST. Micron warned that the global memory shortage – spanning DRAM and NAND – will stay tight through 2026 and likely beyond, as AI demand expands. In its earnings release, CEO Sanjay Mehrotra noted 'tight industry conditions' driven by AI data-center build-outs, with HBM in high demand. The company posted a quarterly revenue of $13.64 billion, up from last year, and said it is prioritizing high-margin HBM deals over consumer products, shuttering its Crucial brand. Prices for DDR5 RAM are rising, and supply gaps may affect PC shipments next year. Micron plans to lift overall memory shipments by about 20% next year, while expanding capacity at new plants in Idaho (2027) and New York (2030).

CAS Space responds to Starlink near-miss, emphasizing space deconfliction

December 20, 2025, 8:14 AM EST. A SpaceX VP highlighted a near-collision between Starlink and a newly deployed Chinese CAS Space satellite, noting that sharing ephemeris data helps prevent risky close approaches. CAS Space said it launched nine satellites from Jiuquan with the Kinetica-1/Lijian-1 rocket and that its responsibility ends at deployment, but it is coordinating to identify the exact timeline and the satellite involved. The company stresses its commitment to the responsible use of space and deconfliction with known assets, and says it will assist Starlink as needed. It also notes that all CAS Space launches undergo a mandatory process to align deployment with ground-based space awareness systems to avoid potential collisions.

Internet outage disrupts campus phone service at University of Pittsburgh

December 20, 2025, 8:12 AM EST. An internet outage is disrupting some phones on the University of Pittsburgh campus. Pitt Police say Teams phones may be unable to contact the department. People are urged to use a regular cell phone or a non-Teams line to call Pitt Police at (412) 624-2121. Updates are being shared by WPXI as the situation develops.

Tesla Model Y Standard Review: First Impressions Show Budget Trim Falls Short

December 20, 2025, 8:10 AM EST. During a spontaneous test drive, I checked out the all-new Tesla Model Y Standard – Tesla's cheaper variant. Exterior borrows from the Premium but with cutbacks: no full-width light bar, simpler bumper, balloon tires, and ugly hubcaps. The price gap is modest: $39,990 before destination vs $44,990 for the Premium. The interior reveals deeper cuts: the frunk lacks lining, exposing bare hardware, and other trim is noticeably cheaper. In about 45 minutes behind the wheel, the Standard feels like a downmarket version of Tesla's best-seller, sacrificing polish for affordability. The verdict: if you want the latest tech and a premium feel, the Standard trim undercuts that experience.

Disney and OpenAI Signal AI Video Streaming with Sora and Disney+

December 20, 2025, 8:08 AM EST. From early experiments to a bold bet on the future, Disney and OpenAI are signaling a shift toward AI-driven video. Starting in 2026, Disney's Sora will generate clips featuring more than 200 characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars, with Disney+ hosting user-made scenes. The $1 billion investment underscores how generative AI could redefine storytelling and on-demand viewing. Yet the piece also notes the engineering challenges: AI video relies on diffusion, keeps facial consistency across frames, and imposes environmental and compute costs. If subscribers can request scenes-like Elsa and Cinderella taking down Maleficent-the question becomes how far convergence of AI and streaming will reshape production, licensing, and the economics of entertainment.

Sugon unveils scaleX 10,000-card AI supercluster to challenge Nvidia

December 20, 2025, 7:56 AM EST. Beijing-based Sugon, listed in Shanghai as Dawning Information Industry, unveiled its scaleX platform in Kunshan, claiming the industry's first 10,000-card AI supercluster capable of delivering over 5 eflops of computing power. The system targets trillion-parameter models and AI-for-science workloads, leveraging Sugon's expertise in large-scale computer systems. Senior VP Li Bin said some capabilities have already surpassed Nvidia's Rubin Ultra NVL576 rack, with a new Nvidia platform expected in 2027. The rollout underscores China's push for domestic AI infrastructure and higher computing power amid intensifying competition in the sector.

AESC Battery Plant to Resume Construction in Florence County

December 20, 2025, 7:52 AM EST. City officials say construction on the AESC Battery Plant in Florence County paused due to federal policy uncertainty that slowed financing. Recent legislation changes now allow AESC to move forward. The company has invested about $1.2 billion and the facility is roughly 75% complete. Officials project major construction and hiring could resume in about 8 to 12 months. The project remains a priority, with a stated commitment to a $1.6 billion investment and more than 1,600 jobs. The City of Florence emphasizes ongoing collaboration with Florence County Progress and AESC leadership and says it is focused on economic growth and job creation while keeping the public updated.

What a Good Affordable Android Tablet Looks Like: Galaxy Tab A9+ Review

December 20, 2025, 7:36 AM EST. Looking for a budget Android tablet? The Galaxy Tab A9+ hits a sweet spot with a sleek design and capable performance. It pairs a Snapdragon 695 with 8GB RAM in the tested model (vs. 4GB cheaper), and 128GB storage plus a microSD slot for expansion. The 11-inch LCD offers a smooth 90Hz refresh rate ideal for web, media, and light gaming. Samsung's software – One UI 8.5 – delivers a polished Android experience and promises timely updates, with long-term security updates to extend longevity. In reviews, build quality, software feel, and battery life impressed, all at a wallet-friendly price of around $190, often bundled with a cover stand. If you want a practical, affordable tablet that handles daily tasks without drama, this is a strong contender.

SCOTUS case could raise your internet bill or let piracy run amok

December 20, 2025, 7:22 AM EST. A forthcoming Supreme Court case could reshape how online platforms and broadband providers handle copyright and access. The ruling might raise consumer costs if liability rules tighten, or it could embolden piracy if protections are broadened. At stake is platform responsibility for user activity, the reach of safe harbors, and the balance between deterring infringement and preserving innovation. Supporters warn a stricter standard could lift internet bills for households and small businesses, while opponents say it's essential to curb piracy. The decision could also impact privacy, content licensing, and how easily consumers can access legal downloads and streams. Watch for arguments about consumer access, copyright enforcement, and technology innovation, with implications for prices, viability of services, and online freedom.

1995 NIST Gate Realization by Monroe and Wineland Launches Modern Quantum Computing

December 20, 2025, 7:20 AM EST. In 1995 at NIST Boulder, Dr. Chris Monroe and Nobel laureate Dr. David Wineland demonstrated the first experimental quantum logic gate using trapped ions as qubits, turning quantum computing from theory into testable hardware. This milestone established the foundation for gate-based quantum computing, a framework that remains central three decades later. The work, rooted in early quantum mechanics and subsequent proposals by Benioff and Feynman, laid the physics that IonQ later built upon as it commercialized the approach. IonQ, founded in 2015 by Monroe and Jungsang Kim, evolved from this breakthrough into a leading quantum computing company, achieving milestones such as becoming a public pure-play operator in 2021 and, by 2025, reaching a world-record two-qubit gate fidelity of 99.99%.

NVIDIA's AI Factory Accelerates Enterprise AI at Scale

December 20, 2025, 7:06 AM EST. NVIDIA's AI Factory is accelerating enterprise innovation by turning AI agents into scalable, data-driven collaborators. Rather than automating single tasks, these digital coworkers plan, reason, learn, and act to turn business processes into AI-powered workflows. Built to develop, deploy, and manage AI agents at scale, the factory speeds up every stage of AI agent development and operation. Agents support engineers designing GPU architectures and assist sales and marketing in promoting NVIDIA products. Grounded in the NVIDIA Enterprise Reference Architectures and the Enterprise AI Factory Validated Design, the platform provides a consistent, high-performance foundation for scalable AI. Benefits include reduced time to deployment, greater agility, and higher efficiency for AI workloads across the lifecycle.

Italy dismisses investigations into EV range claims by BYD, Stellantis, Tesla and VW

December 20, 2025, 7:04 AM EST. Italy's antitrust regulator AGCM has dismissed February investigations into unfair practices by BYD, Stellantis, Tesla and Volkswagen regarding EV range, battery degradation and battery warranty messaging. The four automakers agreed to revise their websites to present information more transparently and to add a simulation tool allowing consumers to compare ranges within a market segment. Warranty terms related to battery ageing will be rewritten for clarity. The regulator accepted these commitments and waived fines. Violations could have carried penalties between €5,000 and €10 million. The case highlights how targeted consumer protection and accurate EV range disclosures influence automotive marketing and trust in the electric vehicle market.

Billionaires Sell Amazon Stock to Buy Rigetti Computing, a Quantum Stock Up 3,050% Since 2023

December 20, 2025, 6:54 AM EST. Three hedge-fund billionaires trimmed Amazon (AMZN) and piled into Rigetti Computing (RGTI) in Q3, adding 522,100, 51,700, and 8,900 Rigetti shares respectively after selling multi-million shares of Amazon. The trio-Israel Englander (Millennium), Ken Griffin (Citadel), and Steven Schonfeld (Schonfeld Strategic Advisors)-have collectively beaten the S&P 500 over the past three years. Rigetti has surged about 3,050% since January 2023, spotlighting renewed interest in quantum computing. Amazon remains dominant in e-commerce, advertising, and AWS, with growing AI initiatives including Rufus, Bedrock updates, and a large slate of generative AI tools. Amazon's latest results showed revenue up 13% to $180B and growing profitability, while valuation sits near 32x forward earnings. Some investors cited tariff concerns behind the stock moves.

Trump's AI Policy Divides the GOP: What Key Critics Are Saying

December 20, 2025, 6:52 AM EST. Business Insider reports on how Trump's AI policy is creating rifts within the GOP. The piece highlights concerns from key critics about its potential impact on innovation, regulation, and national security, and what it could mean for the tech industry and U.S. competitiveness. It outlines proposed policy angles, funding questions, and the political jockeying around oversight and standards. The article frames a high-stakes debate at the intersection of technology and policy, offering diverse perspectives on how a coherent AI agenda could shape the party's stance on tech policy.

Russian Cosmonaut Removed From SpaceX's Crew-12 ISS Mission Amid Alleged ITAR Breach

December 20, 2025, 6:50 AM EST. SpaceX has replaced Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Artemyev from the Crew-12 mission to the ISS after alleged violations of U.S. national security rules. The Insider reports Artemyev used his phone during a training visit in Hawthorne, California to photograph restricted SpaceX documentation, engine designs, and other sensitive materials. Andrey Fedyayev will fly as Artemyev's replacement on the four-person crew, targeting a February 2026 launch from SpaceX's Florida facility alongside NASA astronauts. Roscosmos initially attributed the move to a job transfer, a claim contradicted by The Insider's account. If Artemyev stole information, it would implicate the International Traffic in Arms Regulations Act (ITAR) and could sour U.S.-Russian space relations. Analysts note Russia's manned-launch capability faces challenges from a damaged launchpad and delayed engine development, complicating future joint missions.

TSMC and Broadcom Could Soar in 2026 as Nvidia Faces Competition

December 20, 2025, 6:48 AM EST. Two AI hardware players could outpace NVIDIA in 2026: TSMC and Broadcom. While NVIDIA dominates AI compute, TSMC is the world's largest chip foundry, supplying rivals and hyperscalers. A sustained AI buildout supports TSMC's growth, and at about 29x forward earnings it trades at a discount to fabless peers, potentially fueling gains in 2026. Meanwhile, Broadcom is pursuing a different path-building custom AI accelerators with hyperscalers to optimize performance and cost. Its AI semiconductor revenue rose 74% year over year in Q4, signaling momentum behind this strategy. If NVIDIA's lead remains intact, TSMC and Broadcom may still benefit from the AI boom and offer upside in 2026.

PS5 Owners Choose Their Own Game of the Year – Not Clair Obscur

December 20, 2025, 6:36 AM EST. PS5 players have weighed in on their Game of the Year, selecting a winner outside of Clair Obscur. The Metro Shorts report highlights the top contenders, reveals voting trends among console owners, and breaks down what the result says about how players value performance, accessibility, and storytelling on PS5 and Sony's platforms. The article also notes surprise picks, regional differences, and what the win could signal for upcoming releases in the PS5 library.

Etron Chairman Calls DRAM Suppliers the New Santa Claus as Capacity Remains Tight

December 20, 2025, 6:34 AM EST. Taiwanese memory maker Etron's chairman Lu Chao-Chun labels DRAM suppliers such as Samsung and SK hynix the new Santa Claus, handing out limited capacity to select customers. He argues the memory shortage stems from underinvestment during the COVID-19 lull, followed by a surge in demand from AI workloads. With expanding capacity taking years, major buyers-HBM for NVIDIA and other AI chipmakers-continue to outbid everyone else, further constraining supply. The result is tighter PC and laptop memory availability and a rough outlook through 2027 as demand remains elevated.

What If Readers Like AI-Generated Fiction?

December 20, 2025, 6:32 AM EST. A computer scientist, Tuhin Chakrabarty, and collaborator Paramveer Dhillon tested whether AI can produce compelling writing by comparing AI-generated passages with human imitations. Using excerpts from Han Kang and other sources, they fine-tuned GPT-4o on an author's oeuvre and fed it a scene summary, prompting the model to reproduce the author's voice. In blind tests, graduate students preferred the AI renditions after fine-tuning, praising lines that felt emotionally devastating. The piece argues that while many critics doubt AI can write well, readers may respond differently, potentially changing the economics of authorship. The essayist, a novelist and journalist, acknowledges that if readers opt for AI-generated fiction, authors may struggle to compete, even as the line between human and machine storytelling blurs.

How a Volkswagen Bus and Blue Boxes Helped Launch Apple

December 20, 2025, 6:18 AM EST. Steve Jobs, in his early twenties and short of cash, sold his Volkswagen bus to fund Apple's first steps. With Steve Wozniak, he scraped together about $1,300 to assemble the prototype that became the Apple I, kicking off a path to the Apple II and mass-market computing. Earlier, the pair had dabbled in "blue boxes"-illicit devices that let users make free long-distance calls-an activity Jobs later called pivotal to Apple's formation. As Jobs put it, If we hadn't made blue boxes, there would have been no Apple. The period was defined by bold experimentation and a belief that everyone should own a home computer, a vision that turned into a tech giant.

U.S. Space Force awards $1.6B in satellite contracts to Rocket Lab and Northrop Grumman

December 20, 2025, 6:16 AM EST. The U.S. Space Force's Space Development Agency has awarded about $1.6 billion in satellite contracts to Rocket Lab (Long Beach) and Northrop Grumman's Redondo Beach Space Park campus to build 18 satellites each for a developing warning network. Northrop Grumman's $764 million contract advances the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, aiming for a large low Earth orbit constellation for missile defense and communications. Rocket Lab's $805 million award – the company's largest to date – follows a prior $515 million deal for 18 satellites and leverages its Electron rocket. Additional awards to Lockheed Martin and L3Harris for 36 satellites total nearly $2 billion, bolstering global missile warning and tracking capabilities.

I Spent Six Months with a Flip Phone: A Candid Look at a Simpler Smartphone World

December 20, 2025, 6:00 AM EST. Six months with a flip phone lead the author to question whether simply unplugging can fix a system built on constant engagement. The piece traces late-night scrolling, a bleary media cycle, and the sense that tech both connects and constrains us. Rather than a mere abstinence, the experiment tests how a more conscious future might emerge through concrete changes-exploring low-tech replacements like refurbished MP3 players, older GPS devices, and the idea of a Light Phone III-even as the US grid relies on 4G/5G. The author candidly weighs the hard part: staying reachable without surrendering essential communication. The essay argues that real reform requires deliberate habits, broader policy considerations, and a willingness to live with fewer digital conveniences.

LinkedIn CEO: Five-Year Career Plans Are Outdated in an AI-Driven Workplace

December 20, 2025, 5:48 AM EST. LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky argues that a fixed five-year career plan is outdated in today's fast-changing job market, where AI and tech shifts reshape skills on a near-daily basis. In a No One Knows What They're Doing podcast, he urged professionals to set shorter-term goals-focusing on what to learn and which experiences to pursue-rather than mapping years ahead. Roslansky notes that the workplace is evolving rapidly, with data from the World Economic Forum forecasting that about 39% of core skills could transform or become obsolete by 2030. While some career experts defend five-year plans for structure and flexibility, Roslansky emphasizes agility and continual learning as the core strategy in a volatile environment. He even explores these ideas on his podcast, The Path.

Delaware court reinstates Elon Musk's $56 billion Tesla pay package, potentially worth up to $139 billion

December 20, 2025, 5:46 AM EST. The Delaware Supreme Court reinstated Elon Musk's controversial 2018 Tesla pay package worth about $56 billion, ruling that rescinding it would be inequitable. The decision notes the package could be worth as much as $139 billion today. It upheld concerns about fiduciary duty but rejected fully voiding the plan, ordering nominal damages of $1 to the plaintiff. Tesla shareholders had previously approved a stopgap to ensure Musk would receive the payout, and the ruling aligns with continued ambition to grow Tesla's value. If milestones are met, the awards could dramatically elevate Musk's fortune, even as critics warn about governance risk and overpayment.

EV Clinic warns of extremely high failure rates in LG NCM811 batteries in Tesla Model 3/Y, doubts real-world reliability vs Panasonic

December 20, 2025, 5:44 AM EST. European EV repair shop EV Clinic warns that Tesla Model 3 and Model Y cars using LGES Nanjing-made NCM811 batteries show extremely high failure rates in real-world use. The firm says Chinese cells often underperform against American Panasonic NCA packs, with many LG units failing around 250,000 km, while Panasonic packs show repairable single-cell faults up to about 400,000 km. EV Clinic notes a stark difference in impedance: healthy Panasonic cells around ~10 megaohms, new LG Nanjing cells around 28 mΩ, and failing Panasonic cells near 28 mΩ-similar to new LG cells. In a post on X, the team says they tested over 40 units across three shops and warns the initial pack was a 'disaster,' predicting higher failure rates in coming years. The Croatia-based firm says the best lithium-ion cells are made in the United States.

NVIDIA RTX Pro 5000 Blackwell Adds 72GB Memory (GDDR7)

December 20, 2025, 5:30 AM EST. The NVIDIA RTX Pro 5000 Blackwell with 72GB of GDDR7 memory adds ECC support and upgrades from the 48GB variant. The update is a straightforward memory bump, but the MIG (Multi-Instance GPU) feature shifts with the capacity: the 72GB card offers two MIG instances of 36GB each, while the 48GB card has two 24GB instances. Staying around a ~300W TDP, this card targets compact servers or workstation rigs that need substantial memory in 1-2 GPU configurations, narrowing the gap to the RTX 6000 Pro Blackwell. The choice may hinge on workload size and system scale, rather than an 8-GPU setup.

Leadership Lessons From Tesla and Waymo You Can Apply to Your Startup

December 20, 2025, 5:28 AM EST. Based on my time at Tesla and Waymo, these leadership lessons help founders scale a tech startup. Build a culture of relentless execution where bold bets are paired with rigorous risk assessment, and where curiosity and psychological safety empower teams to raise hard questions. Hire for impact and invest in grooming leaders who make data-driven decisions under ambiguity. Translate high-stakes engineering discipline into product clarity: set clear priorities, shorten feedback loops, and prototype rapidly while never compromising safety and ethics. Align incentives, codify processes, and scale knowledge through mentorship and cross-functional collaboration. Stay customer-centric, obsess over reliable delivery, and convert lessons from autonomy and regulation into practical startup playbooks.

Illumina (ILMN): Valuation Reassessed After AI-Genomics Partnership With MyOme

December 20, 2025, 5:14 AM EST. Illumina (ILMN) deepens its clinical whole-genome sequencing push by partnering with MyOme, backing a large proactive health trial that blends sequencing with AI-driven risk models. The deal and a forthcoming J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference appearance have boosted optimism, even as the stock posts a 90-day return of 31.17% after years of weakness. At a current price of $134.78, versus a narrative fair value of $119.84, investors are weighing an implied premium for execution and recovery. A referenced target implies a higher P/E for 2028 earnings; a SWS DCF suggests a fair value near $181.08. Risks include China headwinds and intensifying competition in high-throughput sequencing.

Can AI Shopping Tools Like ChatGPT Pick Meaningful Christmas Gifts?

December 20, 2025, 5:12 AM EST. Gift-giving can feel like a quiet act of surveillance, and this piece follows a self-described Santa Shannon trying out AI shopping tools to find gifts for family. The author remains skeptical about aesthetics and the environmental cost of online shopping, even as they test the tech everyone calls the future. They feed ChatGPT a detailed portrait of a sister, mom, and dad, asking for thoughtful, preemptive, and unique picks without defaulting to Target or Amazon. The model converts people into neat archetypes-and begins recommending gifts that fit those caricatures. In short, the experiment shows AI's charm and limits: it can mirror personality well, but struggles with real nuance when turning people into shopping lists.

Tesla Teams Up With Selkirk to Launch a $350 Pickleball Paddle

December 20, 2025, 4:56 AM EST. Tesla and Selkirk Sport unveil a limited-edition pickleball paddle approved by USA Pickleball, priced at $350. The collaboration claims engineering depth, with an edgeless perimeter and open-air throat, plus Selkirk's InfiniGrit Surface to boost spin. Critics call the price ludicrous, arguing it rivals high-end tennis rackets and far exceeds typical paddle costs. The piece notes Tesla's history of branded merchandise ranging from a $450 mezcal to CyberTruck-themed merch like the $700 CyberHammer, highlighting the company's willingness to monetize fan fervor. The author questions whether such luxury merch investments reflect value and highlights the broader trend of tech giants expanding into lifestyle products.

Google and Meta Team Up to Cut Nvidia Reliance in AI Chips

December 20, 2025, 4:44 AM EST. Google is deepening its collaboration with Meta Platforms to curb Nvidia's dominance in the AI chip market. Reuters reports that Google is developing software changes to make its own chips work more seamlessly with PyTorch, the framework developers rely on. Meta Platforms is lending backing by gaining greater access to Google's chip infrastructure, with the arrangement aimed at powering Google's own AI services as well as cloud customers. The move heightens competitive pressure on Nvidia in AI hardware, even as Nvidia notes its current outlook isn't tied to its discussed $100B deal with OpenAI. Industry chatter and analyst commentary, including prospects for Broadcom's role, underscore the race to dominate custom AI chips and high-end networking as AI adoption accelerates.

AI Tools Strengthen Nebraska Law Enforcement in Fight Against Sex Trafficking

December 20, 2025, 4:42 AM EST. AI is giving Nebraska law enforcement and victim-service organizations a powerful new set of tools to stay ahead of traffickers. AI-driven facial recognition helps identify missing Nebraskans featured in online ads, speeding recoveries and focusing resources. It can also trace the financial trails of trafficking networks, detecting anomalies in transactions and illuminating who funds them. The result is faster investigations, more victims identified, and stronger prosecutions, all while law enforcement partners stress that AI will not replace human compassion. The piece calls for smart, balanced policies that protect privacy and ensure access to lifesaving tools. It also notes the need for responsible use and continued collaboration among law enforcement, social workers, advocates, and the community.

Dutch Tesla-only rental Mistergreen bankruptcy tests Elon Musk's 'appreciating asset' claim

December 20, 2025, 4:26 AM EST. Dutch leasing firm Mistergreen, once aiming to run a Tesla-only fleet and monetize through robotaxis, is facing bankruptcy after wiping out bondholders and selling its operations. The collapse underscores the risk of believing Elon Musk's claim that Teslas would become appreciating assets. Mistergreen had borrowed to build a fleet that peaked at over 4,000 vehicles, betting on rising resale values and autonomous revenue streams. Instead, aggressive price cuts by Tesla, combined with delays in consumer FSD promises, drove down used EV prices and crushed residual values. The company documented its belief in strong residuals and the superior charging network, only to see depreciation outpace expectations, forcing a collapse that leaves creditors exposed and shareholders shaken.

NASA GOES Imagery 2025: Snowstorms, Fires, Auroras and Volcanic Activity Captured from Space

December 20, 2025, 4:24 AM EST. NASA's GOES satellites offer 'eyes in the sky' for the Western Hemisphere, continually transmitting high-resolution imagery for weather forecasting, severe storm tracking, fire monitoring, and space weather prediction. The year's highlights include January's rare southern US snowstorm captured by GOES-16, July's Dragon Bravo fire at Grand Canyon National Park, and catastrophic Central Texas floods visible on GOES-19. September brought dazzling aurora borealis displays along the U.S.-Canada border, with spectacular geomagnetic activity in November. December images of Kilauea's ongoing eruption in Hawaii show lava fountains and atmospheric connections. These snapshots underscore how geostationary satellites monitor extreme weather, natural hazards, and volcanic activity from above, helping scientists track events in near real time.

5 Ways AI Agents Will Transform the Way We Work in 2026

December 20, 2025, 4:10 AM EST. AI agents can understand goals, semi-autonomously plan steps, and act under supervision. Google Cloud's 2026 AI Agent Trends Report and NotebookLM outline five trends redefining work. 1) AI agents boost productivity as employees delegate tasks, with Telus' 57,000 users saving 40 minutes per interaction and Suzano cutting SQL query times by 95% for 50,000 staff. 2) Agentic workflows connect multiple agents to automate end-to-end processes via cross-platform protocols like A2A between Salesforce and Google Cloud. 3) Hyperpersonalized, concierge-style service replaces scripted chatbots, with Danfoss automating 80% of orders and near-real-time responses. 4) Security operations get a lift as agents triage alerts; Macquarie reports 38% more self-service and fewer false positives. 5) Growing enterprise adoption and governance.

Ambient Computing Market to Reach USD 269.68 Billion by 2033 at 25.30% CAGR, SNS Insider

December 20, 2025, 4:08 AM EST. Ambient Computing Market is projected to grow from USD 44.62 billion in 2025 to USD 269.68 billion by 2033, a CAGR of 25.30% (2026-2033), per SNS Insider. Growth is fueled by rising adoption of IoT devices, smart homes, and wearable technology, enabling intelligent, context-aware systems that automate decision-making with minimal human input. Increased demand spans networked workspaces, health monitoring, and home automation, as connected devices proliferate. Major players include Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Apple, Samsung, IBM, NVIDIA, and others. The report highlights segmentation by component, technology, application, and end-user. However, data privacy concerns and cybersecurity threats could constrain expansion. The market is poised for continued consolidation as providers scale edge computing, AI, and NLP capabilities.

Switch 2: R-Type Dimensions 3 Goes on Cartridge, Price Up to €70

December 20, 2025, 3:54 AM EST. Nintendo's Switch 2 will finally see the full R-Type Dimensions 3 on a physical cartridge, but at a higher price: €70. Preordered Special Editions stay the same price. Publisher Inin Games originally moved to Game-Key Cards to avoid higher production costs, and now recalculates after reports of smaller cartridge sizes (16GB/32GB rumors) and Nintendo's hints. Game-Key Cards still require a digital download, with storage limits and expensive microSD Express cards drawing criticism for long-term preservation. Ubisoft defended the format for technical reasons (Star Wars Outlaws). Nintendo even ran a survey on physical vs digital ownership. The news confirms a shift toward physical releases, but not without a price increase, and highlights ongoing debate over game-key authentication vs full cartridge releases.

TikTok US JV deal, optical AI chip with Nvidia-A100 speeds, and US-China soybean pact – SCMP daily highlights

December 20, 2025, 3:52 AM EST. SCMP rounds up today's top China stories: TikTok reaches a binding agreement to divest its US entity into a joint venture controlled by an American investor consortium; Chinese researchers unveil an optical computing chip said to outperform Nvidia's A100 by more than 100x in speed and energy efficiency for generative tasks like video production and image synthesis; and China's soybean deal with the US advances, with roughly 7 million tonnes secured-over half of the 12 million-tonne pledge for 2026, though shipments remain uncertain.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Hits Record-Low Price as Pocket-Sized 4K Vlogging Camera

December 20, 2025, 2:50 AM EST. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a pocket-sized, 4K vlogging camera that outperforms smartphones for video quality, thanks to its 3-axis gimbal stabilization. It records at 4K/120fps, stays rock-solid, and features a rotating 2-inch screen for easy framing. It even handles livestreaming on YouTube and RTMP platforms with ease. Thanks to ActiveTrack 6.0 and Dynamic Framing, subjects stay centered for professional-looking footage, whether you're on the move or capturing family moments. With the current deal-about 35% off to $518-the Osmo Pocket 3 combines compact form, strong stabilization, and hassle-free setup for creators chasing better reels and home videos.

Apple plans second Santa Rosa store at Montgomery Village, signaling retail expansion

December 20, 2025, 2:32 AM EST. Apple is poised to add a second Santa Rosa location at Montgomery Village, a move that would expand its footprint in the city about 2 miles from its existing store. The new 8,684-square-foot space at 720 Farmers Lane received a temporary occupancy permit expiring Feb. 15, 2026, with utilities and final interior work allowed before public occupancy. WS Development, the center owner, declined comment on openings. Apple's ongoing shift toward a more experiential retail model-emphasizing learning, services, and ongoing visits through initiatives like Today at Apple-helps explain the expansion. The Montgomery Village project follows a recent string of high-profile tenants, signaling a push to transform the center into a higher-end shopping destination in Santa Rosa.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Rumors: Dual-Camera Housing, Passive Cooling, and a Mystery Rear Lens

December 20, 2025, 2:02 AM EST. New rumors place the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 with a larger camera housing featuring passive cooling to reduce overheating. The design is said to house two cameras, signaling a leap from the Osmo Pocket 3. The rear camera remains a mystery; it's likely not a Pocket 2, and many speculate it could be a single-lens variant of the Osmo Pocket 4. Hardware button placement seen in leaked shots lends some support to this theory. Some leaks hint at both a Pocket 4 and a Pocket 4 Pro, but there's no definitive evidence yet. Reported via OsitaLV.

Apple Maps Drops Flyover City Tours Amid iOS 26 Launch

December 20, 2025, 1:46 AM EST. Apple Maps has quietly dropped the Flyover city tours, a feature introduced in 2014 with iOS 8. The change aligns with the launch of iOS 26, though the underlying 3D Flyover imagery remains in over 350 cities. Previously, users accessed tours by tapping the Flyover icon in a city's search results; that option is no longer available. Apple continues to offer aerial, bird's-eye views built from imagery captured by aircraft described as military-grade, but privacy and security concerns limit availability in some regions. In short, interactive Flyover tours are gone, even as detailed 3D imagery of landmarks and parks persists in Apple Maps.

RAM shortage to push up prices for smartphones and PCs through 2027, IDC says

December 20, 2025, 1:44 AM EST. The global RAM shortage is expected to persist into 2027, driving higher prices for both smartphones and PCs. IDC notes memory makers like Micron, Samsung, and SK Hynix are prioritizing AI data centers, causing RAM costs to spike. Budget phone makers may pass increases to consumers, while Samsung and Apple could secure supply 12-24 months in advance and add limited RAM upgrades. Phone prices could rise 3-5% in a moderate scenario (6-8% if pessimistic). For PCs, the shortage creates pressure as AI-era models and Windows 10 retirement align with price hikes from Dell, HP, Acer, and Asus. Overall, RAM-driven price pressure remains a major theme for 2026-2027.

How to enable Expanded dark mode on a Google Pixel phone

December 20, 2025, 1:14 AM EST. Google's Pixel updates add an Expanded dark mode option to force a dark theme across apps that don't natively support it, improving accessibility and reducing glare. The feature arrives with the Android QPR2 update for Pixel 6 and newer devices. To use it, check you're on the right build (Settings > About phone > Build number should show BP4A.251205.006 or newer), then go to Settings > Display and touch > Dark theme, and select the Expanded toggle. Note that not all apps will render perfectly, and forcing dark themes can affect user experience in some cases. As a temporary workaround, this is helpful until app developers add native dark mode support.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 Pro+ review: bigger display, 6500mAh battery, 200MP main cam, 100W charging

December 20, 2025, 12:40 AM EST. The Redmi Note 15 Pro+ arrives with a 6.83-inch AMOLED display, a 6500mAh battery, and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, promising a step up in speed and endurance. The camera rack centers on a 200 MP main sensor with OIS, while an 8 MP ultrawide remains a sore point for critics. Xiaomi keeps the global model slightly toned down versus the Chinese variant, notably in charging (100W) vs (120W) and battery differences, but adds HDR10+ Dolby Vision support and IP68/IP69K protection for rugged use. The 256/512 GB storage options with up to 12GB RAM, Android 15, and HyperOS 2 aim for a flagship-like experience at a mid-range price. In short, bigger screen, longer battery life, and a high-resolution main camera define this Pro+ iteration-at the cost of some premium features.

Tesla's Robotaxi Dream Under Scrutiny: Why 2026 Might Hit the Breaks

December 20, 2025, 12:26 AM EST. Tesla's stock has surged on robotaxi talk, but this analysis argues that 2026 could bring a screeching halt to the dream. The piece notes Musk's history of missed deadlines and optimistic timelines-from 2017 cross-country autonomously driving to 2019 Cybertruck, Roadster 2.0, and 2020-24 FSD promises. It argues that despite progress, commercial robotaxi rollout remains limited by testing and regulation. The article cites Q2 comments from Musk about approvals and safety, implying timelines persistently slip. In short, while Tesla and AI ambitions loom large, the history of overpromising deadlines casts doubt on a rapid robotaxi deployment, suggesting the 2026 timeline may look similar to previous delays rather than a breakthrough leap.

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