Technology News 27.12.2025

Would You Buy the SpaceX IPO? Motley Fool Debates a $1.5T Valuation

December 27, 2025, 11:52 PM EST. In this Motley Fool Money episode, hosts discuss the potential SpaceX IPO and a reported $1.5 trillion valuation, which would be a record-breaking public listing. They note that roughly 70% of SpaceX revenue comes from Starlink, the global satellite Internet platform, positioning the company as much more of a telecom play than a traditional rocket business. The crew debates SpaceX's status as a Rule Breaker and whether investors should consider buying into the IPO. They also touch on the broader mix of space tech, launches, and the scaling of satellite services as a growth driver. The episode previews listener questions and outlines what to watch before any public offering.

Own Microsoft Office for life for $34.97 – Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more

December 27, 2025, 11:02 PM EST. SPONSORED deal: Get permanent access to the Microsoft Office Professional 2021 suite for a one-time payment of $34.97 (normally $219.99). No subscriptions, no monthly fees – install on Windows and use the Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access, and the free version of Teams. This lifetime license means you won't be billed again and you can replace juggling of free apps with a full desktop suite. Limited-time offer; prices and availability may change. Affiliate promo via Mashable partners.

Samsung Galaxy S26 tipped for satellite and gaming boosts, but pricing remains undecided

December 27, 2025, 10:32 PM EST. The Galaxy S26 is tipped to gain a faster Exynos Modem 5410, boosting satellite connectivity, and an upgraded AMD GPU on the Exynos 2600 for smoother mobile gaming. Pricing for the S26 family remains under debate as Samsung weighs higher component, marketing, and labor costs against demand. The phones are expected to debut in February 2026, with possible early availability the following week. The base S25 started at $799 / £799 / AU$1,399, but Samsung's pricing approach for the S26 is still unsettled. Exynos-powered models may help reduce costs somewhat, but profitability versus consumer pricing is still being negotiated.

First Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Camera Reviews: 2026 Ultra Flagship With 1-inch OV50X, Master Zoom Ring, and Leica Edition

December 27, 2025, 10:30 PM EST. Xiaomi's 2026 Ultra flagship debuts with a 1-inch Omnivision OV50X main sensor and a dedicated optical zoom using the 200MP Samsung ISOCELL HPE sensor. The special edition, called Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica (Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi in Europe), adds the Master Zoom Ring with haptic feedback and distinctive Leica styling. Early hands-on notes point to cloud-based AI processing that can take about 40 seconds and may fail if servers aren't reachable. In practice, the 23mm, 14mm ultrawide, 100mm portrait, and 10x zoom modules show a unique Xiaomi/Leica approach, with strong dynamic range from the new Lofic sensor, though some portraits are artifact-prone and comparisons with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra vary.

All-solid-state EV batteries promise 600-mile range and 9-minute charges by 2026

December 27, 2025, 10:16 PM EST. Samsung, alongside Solid Power and BMW, is accelerating the shift to all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) for electric vehicles. The new cells could deliver roughly 600 miles of range and cut charging times to about nine minutes, with initial use in luxury cars due to higher production costs. Using a solid electrolyte, ASSBs aim to reduce leaks and fire risk compared with lithium-ion batteries. The tech could also power smartphones and laptops, since the cells are smaller, lighter and safer. If scaled, these breakthroughs may alter EV economics and safety, addressing long charging waits and past fire concerns while expanding the road for wider adoption.

Best Apple Watch Apps to Boost Productivity: Todoist, Drafts, Focus

December 27, 2025, 9:26 PM EST. Maximize productivity on your Apple Watch with apps designed to replace phone interruptions. Todoist lets you create and organize tasks, set reminders, and view daily progress right from your watch, whether you type, speak, or use voice commands. Drafts turns your watch into a quick digital notepad with voice capture, Scribble, and iPhone sync, helping you capture ideas without grabbing your phone. Focus offers timer-based Focus Sessions that help you work in short blocks and take planned breaks, keeping distractions to a minimum. These tools complement built-in reminders and calendar, offering glanceable task status, quick note capture, and structured work sessions on the go.

EFF Defends Minors' First Amendment Rights Against Age-Verification and Kid-Friendly Internet Bills

December 27, 2025, 8:56 PM EST. State and federal lawmakers have proposed measures to block or restrict minors from accessing legal online content, prompting fierce opposition from the free-expression community. The EFF argues that minors have the First Amendment right to speak and access speech online, including the ability to curate their own feeds. The push for a separate kid-friendly internet and an adults-only internet risks age-verification mandates, invasive data collection, and the erosion of anonymity, potentially chilling lawful speech for both minors and adults. Such laws could harm LGBTQ+ youth and others lacking support networks by limiting access to information and communities. EFF has lobbied lawmakers, filed briefs, and will continue defending the rights of everyone online, including minors, in 2025 and beyond.

Samsung's 2026 Roadmap: Could Smart Glasses End the Smartphone Era?

December 27, 2025, 8:26 PM EST. Samsung is betting on a post-phone future, with two pairs of smart glasses slated for 2026. While smartphones and tablets remain central, the piece argues smart glasses could eventually replace the slab if they handle maps, messaging, calls, and AI-based search in a seamless, ambient way. Drawing on Meta's Ray-Ban and Google Glass history, Samsung would need tight ecosystem integration-potentially offloading processing to devices like the Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Ring to keep glasses light. The Gemini AI agents, developed with Google, could power hands-free translation, recognition of acquaintances, and proactive assistance. It's not instant replacement of phones, but a path to a phone-less Galaxy experience.

Samsung Unveils Art-Inspired Music Studio Speakers by Erwan Bouroullec for CES 2026

December 27, 2025, 8:24 PM EST. Samsung teams with designer Erwan Bouroullec to turn a speaker into a piece of art for CES 2026. The Music Studio line includes the Music Studio 5 with a 4-inch woofer and the larger Music Studio 7, a 3.1.1-channel speaker that can run solo, in stereo pairs, or with Samsung home audio ecosystems using Q-Symphony. Both models support high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/96kHz and feature AI Dynamic Bass Control to extend bass response. Rather than hiding electronics, Samsung aims for aesthetics that complement home design, continuing the brand's art-forward approach. The system emphasizes versatility, with multi-room compatibility and flexible pairing with other Samsung Wi-Fi speakers, soundbars, or TVs. Built with design influences from Erwan Bouroullec, the Music Studio line blends sound quality with visual form.

Why Galaxy S25 Edge resonates more with consumers than experts

December 27, 2025, 8:08 PM EST. Android Authority's Ryan Haines contends that reviewers and consumers judge the Galaxy S25 Edge differently. Reviewers' judgments are anchored to past experiences and benchmarks, which can misalign with the phone's novelty and what users actually want. Depth comes from long-term use, which reviewers rarely get when constantly switching devices; consumers benefit from living with a phone for months. When choices are narrowed to two devices, decision fatigue fades and buyers focus on feel, comfort, and real-world usefulness rather than pure specs. The piece argues that the consumer perspective often reveals what people will truly like, especially for a device that defies conventional expectations. The S25 Edge may polarize critics but can win over everyday users.

Three AI Stocks to Leave Behind in 2026: Why Palantir and C3.ai May Face Downside

December 27, 2025, 8:06 PM EST. AI stock gains after 2022 may be overheating. The piece argues that a few names look overvalued as 2026 approaches. Palantir Technologies (PLTR) trades with a bubble-like valuation (trailing P/E near 450, forward P/E ~270, and a P/S above 125) despite solid AI-driven revenue growth, suggesting limited near-term upside. C3.ai (AI) faces a tougher path as revenue declines and leadership changes weigh on execution; the company lifted and then trimmed fiscal 2026 guidance, highlighting execution risk in AI software. The article also hints at a third stock likely to disappoint, underscoring caution around high multiples and uncertain long-term demand.

10 Best Meta Quest 3 Games of 2025

December 27, 2025, 7:52 PM EST. Coasting through 2025, the Meta Quest 3 continues to deliver standout VR experiences across genres. This list rounds up the best Quest 3 games you can play without extra hardware, from high-octane shooters to thoughtful puzzles. Highlights include Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow, which captures the stealth vibe and atmosphere of the classic series, despite some AI and motion-tracking quirks, and Marvel's Deadpool VR, which leans into the Merc with a Mouth's personality to offer a more complete VR superhero title. The piece also notes cross-compatibility with PCVR titles like The Midnight Walk, while affirming that Quest 3 versions stand toe-to-toe with their non-VR counterparts. Overall, a solid year for VR on the Meta Quest 3.

Nothing Phone (3) 16GB/512GB Drops to $719 on Amazon (White Only)

December 27, 2025, 7:18 PM EST. Amazon has slashed the Nothing Phone (3) top-tier to $719, applying the discount to the white variant only. The device pairs Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 with 16GB RAM and 512GB UFS 4.0 storage for strong multitasking and fast app launches. Nothing's Glyph Interface with 489 LEDs remains a standout customization feature. The 6.7-inch LTPS OLED, 120Hz display supports HDR10+. On the cameras, you get a triple 50MP system with 4K60 video, plus a 50MP front camera. A 5,150mAh battery supports wireless and wired charging. Despite not using the top flagship chipset, the combination of premium hardware and up to five Android updates makes this a compelling buy at this price.

FCC Expands Covered List to All Foreign-Produced Drones; DJI Mini 5 Pro Prop Guard Leak Emerges

December 27, 2025, 7:04 PM EST. In a surprising move, the FCC expanded its covered list to include all foreign-produced drones and several UAS critical components, effectively barring new imports and sales of affected models in the United States. Civilian flight and current drone models remain operable, but future products could be blocked unless an exemption is granted. The memo cites concurrence from multiple national security agencies, though the exemption process via DOD/DHS remains unclear, and the audit bypass has drawn questions. Meanwhile, a separate note teases a possible DJI Mini 5 Pro propeller guard leak, suggesting accessories updates as the brand refreshes its lineup. The update comes with a video breakdown from Pilot Institute.

Buy and Hold: 5 Artificial Intelligence Stocks to Own Through 2035

December 27, 2025, 7:02 PM EST. Investors can capitalize on the AI boom by buying and holding a core set of winners through 2035. The article argues the AI market could grow from about $270B today to over $5.2T next decade, and notes that even private or lesser-known players could emerge as winners, but a core group already stands out. Nvidia dominates accelerator chips for data-center AI, with a dominant GPU share and a massive order backlog underpinning momentum. Alphabet leverages a broad AI ecosystem (Google apps, YouTube, Android, Cloud) and has developed its own TPU-based Gemini model, hinting at in-house and potential external AI chip momentum. Microsoft is another pillar in the AI stack. Together these names illustrate a strategic, long-horizon approach to capture the AI lifecycle from compute to platform services.

Where Do Apple Returns Actually Go? From Store Restock to Apple Refurbishment

December 27, 2025, 6:48 PM EST. Apple handles returns based on condition. Unopened iPhones or iPads returned to a store can be restocked, often entering inventory as new, though stores may apply a 15% restocking fee. Once a product has been opened or used, Apple moves it to an Apple-owned refurbishing facility for comprehensive testing, module replacements, cleaning, and repackaging, with a new serial number. After refurbishment, items are relisted on Apple's Certified Refurbished storefront rather than in physical Apple Stores. In short, sealed returns may go back to stock; opened/used items are refurbished and sold via the online refurb shop.

DJI Osmo Action 6 firmware upgrade unlocks 8K recording and cloud uploads

December 27, 2025, 6:46 PM EST. The DJI Osmo Action 6 just got a free firmware upgrade that unlocks 8K video recording at 30fps in 16:9. The update (version 01.02.05.21) is available via the DJI Mimo app and also adds direct cloud uploads to services like OneDrive and Google Drive, or to a personal NAS (automatic or manual). It also brings film-style tone presets in Photo mode, more customization options, and tweaks such as an improved grid overlay in Custom mode. With these enhancements, the Osmo Action 6 remains a strong competitor to GoPro, extending its versatility for both casual and serious creators.

BioShock 4 Leaks: Borealis, Solaria District, and Snowy Canyon Environments Point to a Dark Return

December 27, 2025, 6:34 PM EST. BioShock 4 is reportedly in development at Cloud Chamber since 2018, but a Bloomberg report paints a picture of ongoing development hell and narrative rewrites that could push launch past 2027. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick remains publicly confident the game will release. Leaks over the years have offered crumbs, including a proposed 1960s Antarctic setting in a city called Borealis. Recent details circulating online cover planned locations such as a grand casino, and a district named Solaria (or Solaris) with a class of people called Solarians. Snowy environments and canyon-like landscapes appear in early tests, alongside cables and machinery, suggesting a stylized look reminiscent of BioShock Infinite. If authentic, these notes sketch the tone, factions, and protagonists that may shape the reveal.

China's Zuchongzhi 3.2 hits fault-tolerant milestone, edging past Google in efficiency

December 27, 2025, 6:20 PM EST. Chinese researchers led by Pan Jianwei at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) announced that their superconducting quantum computer, Zuchongzhi 3.2, has reached the fault-tolerant threshold, a milestone for scalable, reliable operation. It marks the first team outside the United States and the second in history after Google to cross this gate, potentially enabling larger quantum systems. Their approach relies on microwave-based control rather than Google's error-suppression hardware-heavy methods. The work, reported in Physical Review Letters, suggests a more efficient path to fault-tolerant quantum computing, though experts caution the field is still far from practical, real-world applications.

Is MetaX a NVIDIA Threat-or Just Another DeepSeek Market Scare? | Tech Markets 2025

December 27, 2025, 6:18 PM EST. MetaX Integrated Circuits debuted on the Shanghai Stock Exchange on Dec. 17, surging about 700%. Founded by former AMD executives, MetaX is building general-purpose GPUs for AI, prompting comparisons with NVIDIA. Yet the piece argues MetaX isn't an immediate threat to NVIDIA's dominance, noting NVIDIA's string of earnings beats and the market's tendency to overreact to newcomers. The rush to chase AI IPOs-including Moore Threads-has fed a recent wave of volatility that defaulted to hype rather than sustainable momentum, much like the DeepSeek episode. The takeaway: while MetaX signals growing competition, it's more an episode of market sentiment than a decisive disruptor. Investors should distinguish hype from fundamentals and monitor execution, not headlines.

Rainbow Six Siege Outages Persist as Alleged Hack Grants Billions of Credits and Random Bans

December 27, 2025, 6:16 PM EST. Rainbow Six Siege is experiencing widespread outages across all platforms as Ubisoft investigates an incident many players suspect is more than a routine server issue. Reports claim accounts are being flooded with billions of R6 Credits and Renown, alongside developer skins and exclusive cosmetics, while the ban feed shows random, possibly automated bans and unbans. Ubisoft's service page lists critical problems with authentication, in-game store access, and matchmaking on PC, PS4/PS5, and Xbox. The publisher has not confirmed a security breach, fueling community criticism that Ubisoft is downplaying the severity. As teams work on a fix, players are advised to stay offline where possible until service stability and integrity return.

Why Are Cars Getting Rid of Android Auto? Data, In-House Systems, and the AI Shift

December 27, 2025, 6:14 PM EST. Automakers are moving away from phone-driven infotainment like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to gain more control over user data and revenue streams. The trend, highlighted by brands such as GM's shift to a Gemini-based AI system, shows carmakers replacing or supplementing smartphone integrations with built-in platforms. Critics argue this standardizes data collection and could reduce reliance on third-party apps. Several brands have already pulled Android Auto from certain EVs, while others continue to offer it alongside brand-created systems. Notably Rivian and Tesla never offered Android Auto or CarPlay, though policy and market dynamics are evolving. The drive toward in-house systems aims to better align dashboards, support brand-specific features, and potentially unlock new monetization through subscriptions and enhanced analytics.

AI Helps Decode Wolf Howls in Yellowstone

December 27, 2025, 5:58 PM EST. Researchers in Yellowstone National Park are applying cutting-edge AI technology to analyze wolf howls in order to improve monitoring and tracking of packs. The project, reported by Matt Standal for PBS Montana, uses audio analysis and machine learning to identify individual wolves and understand their behavior, helping park managers respond to changes in the ecosystem. This approach highlights how AI can enhance wildlife science and conservation efforts in real time.

3 Genius Quantum Computing Stocks to Buy for 2026

December 27, 2025, 5:46 PM EST. Quantum computing could advance in 2026, but mainstream gains are unlikely before 2030. With hype cooling, investors can look for top-tier plays and diversify across established tech giants and pure-plays. Alphabet shows progress with its Willow chip delivering a verifiable quantum computing advantage, signaling nearer niche viability. The company leverages cash flow from search, AI, and cloud to fund quantum R&D, making it a resilient bet in a volatile space. Nvidia isn't chasing a pure quantum processor; instead, it enhances the ecosystem with GPUs that support quantum workloads and hybrid workflows, while pursuing broader AI and graphics leadership. A diversified trio approach-blending established tech leaders with riskier quantum-focused bets-could help investors gain exposure as the sector matures toward 2030.

Rainbow Six Siege Hack: Billions in Credits, Bans, and Rollback as Ubisoft Responds

December 27, 2025, 5:44 PM EST. Rainbow Six Siege is grappling with a live-server exploit that injected billions of R6 Credits, Renown, Alpha Packs, and rare cosmetics into player accounts. Some players also faced bans, though Ubisoft later said no one will be penalized for spending credits received during the incident. A rollback of all transactions since 11:00 UTC is underway. Ubisoft noted that a previous ban ticker was disabled and that any ban messages seen were not triggered by the publisher. To stabilize the system, Siege and its in-game Marketplace were taken offline while teams work to complete the rollback; no official restoration timeline has been announced.

Tesla hits China sales setback as rivals surge in the world's largest EV market

December 27, 2025, 5:28 PM EST. Tesla faces its first annual sales decline in China, the world's largest EV market. November deliveries were 73,145, down 345 from a year earlier, signaling trouble as rivals like BYD and Xiaomi post record growth. Year-to-date Chinese sales reached 531,855 through November; to match 2024's 657,105, Tesla would need over 125,000 cars in December-well above its best monthly total of 82,927. Some warn the decline will worsen as the lineup ages without next-gen models. The slip could dent service quality, elongate wait times, and hurt resale values, potentially slowing broader EV adoption. Tesla's struggles contrast with a surging Chinese EV market; recalls (Powerwall 2) and quality criticisms add further headwinds as competition intensifies.

Rainbow Six Siege Hacked: 2 Billion Credits, Ban Logs, and Ubisoft Fallout

December 27, 2025, 4:56 PM EST. Rainbow Six Siege is hit by a major security breach as hackers distribute 2 billion credits and flood ban logs with taunts at Ubisoft. The attack also hands out dev skins and rare items, prompting Ubisoft to shut down the in-game marketplace and urge players not to spend or log in. Official channels and Discord have been affected, with creators warning fans to stay offline and to avoid spending Renown or credits to prevent TOS violations. Ubisoft says a resolution is in progress. Players are advised to update passwords and remove payment details until the issue is resolved.

Top 7 space and defense tech startups from TechCrunch Disrupt Startup Battlefield

December 27, 2025, 4:52 PM EST. TechCrunch's Disrupt Startup Battlefield spotlights seven space and defense innovators. Airbility is building two-seat electric VTOL aircraft with a fixed-wing design and a distributed electric propulsion system. Astrum Drive Aerospace proposes a propellantless propulsion system that could extend mission lifespans and lower costs. Charter Space offers a fintech-like risk-insurance platform for spacecraft, aiming to unlock new credit for space ventures. Endox pairs proprietary data capture with robotics to inspect and maintain military systems. Hance develops an AI neural network tuned for real-time audio, tackling live-voice challenges in unpredictable environments. Skylark Labs markets a self-learning edge AI for machines and safety apps. Skyline Nav AI provides GPS-denied navigation that recognizes scenes quickly without heavy GPUs, helping combat jamming.

Nvidia Stock Poised for 2026 Gains, Cantor Fitzgerald Says

December 27, 2025, 4:42 PM EST. Analysts argue that Nvidia (NVDA) remains at the center of the AI-led chip cycle, with demand visibility improving even as 2025 paused. Cantor Fitzgerald's C.J. Muse calls Nvidia a top pick for 2026, pointing to a fresh AI demand inflection, next-gen architectures, and a reset in valuations. Nvidia has evolved from a gaming GPU maker into a data-center and software platform leader, anchored by its CUDA ecosystem. Recent headlines – including a Groq licensing deal and resumed H200 shipments to China pending approvals – bolster confidence in sustained momentum. The stock's uptrend persists despite a mid-2025 pause, with NVDA up meaningfully YTD and trading amid cloud spend and AI infrastructure buildouts. Investors await stronger earnings visibility and strategic tailwinds.

NVIDIA After the October Peak: Competition Heats Up in the AI Chip Race

December 27, 2025, 4:38 PM EST. NVIDIA reached a historic $5 trillion market value at the end of October but has since fallen about 10%, leaving the AI leader valued around $4.4 trillion. The company has built its edge on powerful GPUs, a vertically integrated lineup, and a broad ecosystem that attracts big spending from AI developers. Yet rivals like Amazon and Alphabet are pursuing their own AI chips, widening the field and possibly dampening top-line growth. The takeaway for investors: NVIDIA should stay on the leading edge with new and improved technology, but growth could decelerate as valuations normalize. The stock may still beat the market next year, but not with the life-changing gains of the past.

Android holiday game deals swell with Final Fantasy, Mana, Kingdom Rush and more

December 27, 2025, 4:32 PM EST. Android holiday deals expand with another batch of top-tier titles, spanning Final Fantasy classics, the Mana series, Kingdom Rush favorites, and a host of puzzlers. The ongoing Samsung holiday sale still offers deep discounts on devices like the Galaxy Fold and Galaxy Watch, while Pixel 10 prices remain down-up to $100 off from Black Friday. Check below for fresh price drops on popular Android games and apps, plus more deals that are still live today. Don't miss bargains across hardware and software this festive season.

Xiaomi Watch 5 Debuts with EMG Sensor and Long-Lasting Battery

December 27, 2025, 4:30 PM EST. Xiaomi's Watch 5 launches on December 25, 2025, signaling the company's push into premium wearables. The standout feature is a new EMG sensor that measures muscle activity for more precise movement tracking and gesture recognition. The watch pairs comprehensive health monitoring-heart rate, sleep, and SpO2-with full smartphone integration, smart notifications, and customizable faces. A modern wearable chipset delivers smooth performance and, crucially, longer battery life for daily wear. With global availability ahead of the holiday season, the Watch 5 aims to compete with Garmin and Apple, blending health features, design, and usability while hinting at future software-driven health updates.

AI-generated faces now indistinguishable from real – five-minute training helps uncover fakes

December 27, 2025, 4:06 PM EST. New research shows AI-generated faces can be indistinguishable from real ones to untrained eyes. Generative adversarial networks (GANs) produce convincing synthetic portraits, raising concerns about nefarious uses such as deepfakes and misinformation. A Royal Society Open Science study found people struggle to distinguish human from AI faces, but a five-minute training regimen can boost detection accuracy by teaching viewers to spot common rendering glitches (e.g., extra teeth, odd hairlines, unusual skin textures). In experiments, typical recognizers improved from around 30% to about 60% accuracy after training; even super recognizers benefited. The work suggests practical countermeasures against AI deception online.

RTX 5090 power connector reportedly caught fire despite using original cable

December 27, 2025, 3:54 PM EST. A Reddit user reported a melted and even ignited 12V-2×6 power connector for an RTX 5090, despite using a native cable. The insulation failed, exposing copper and causing the housing to melt; a solder blob contacted the GPU heatsink and even burned nearby AIO tubes. The user plans to take the setup to Micro Center after the holidays. The incident echoes earlier issues with high-power PCIe connectors, where a single failing pin can overload others, leading to overheating and melting. While salvageability remains unclear, the episode underscores ongoing concerns with the PCIe power system and older PSUs with 8-pin cables and adapters, and the risk of melting connectors at high wattage. Industry responses, including MSI's mitigations and DIY cooling tricks, have emerged as potential remedies.

California DMV Demands Tesla Stop Calling Its Cars 'Self-Driving'

December 27, 2025, 3:52 PM EST. The California DMV has ordered Tesla to stop labeling cars with terms like Full Self-Driving Capability and Autopilot that imply autonomous operation. Regulators say such messaging misleads buyers, and Tesla must adjust its marketing to reflect current capabilities. No Tesla model offers true Level 5 autonomy; the company's systems are closer to Level 4 and require a driver in certain conditions. The dispute underscores the gap between ambitious auto-tech progress and regulatory oversight, as California protects its market while manufacturers push toward safer, more transparent branding during the transition from assistive features to higher levels of automation.

Power Grids and Data Centers: The Overlooked Winners of the AI Gold Rush

December 27, 2025, 3:50 PM EST. AI's explosion in demand is not just for GPUs and chips. The real accelerator is the physical backbone: data centers, power grids, and reliable electricity. As McKinsey forecasts about $5.2 trillion in AI infrastructure through 2030, the spotlight falls on overlooked supply chains and hard assets. Data center REITs like Equinix and Digital Realty are expanding with hyperscale facilities and large ventures to meet AI demand, while Brookfield Infrastructure aggregates global platforms and even pilots fuel-cell power for efficiency. Beyond hardware, the story centers on the shell that houses compute, cooling, and grid connections-the essential infrastructure layer powering the AI era. As AI firms require multi-GW campuses, the question becomes who will power this transformation.

Twilio Outperforms Palantir in AI Growth: Why 2025 Could Be a Breakout Year

December 27, 2025, 3:38 PM EST. Twilio, a cloud communications company, is leveraging AI to accelerate growth through its APIs that connect clients with customers across text, voice, email, and more. Its cloud platform adds AI-driven insights and the ability to build customized LLMs from customer data to sharpen campaigns. The company reported active customer accounts up 22% YoY to 392,000 and improving spend per customer, reinforcing its growth trajectory. While Palantir's AIP has boosted adoption in the generative AI space, valuation concerns remain. In the market, Twilio has outpaced Palantir, with a roughly 36% rise in the last three months. For investors seeking a high-growth AI play in 2025, Twilio's expanding customer base and AI capabilities could be compelling.

The one cheap comfort upgrade your smartphone needs

December 27, 2025, 3:36 PM EST. Everyone uses a five-finger grip on big smartphones, but one-handed mode isn't a real comfort fix. The piece argues that the real upgrade is a simple phone grip accessory-think PopSocket-which lets you keep a secure hold, frees the thumb for tapping, and avoids the so-called smartphone pinky. Prolonged with the pinky bearing the load, some users may experience numbness, tendon inflammation, or joint misalignment. While phone sizes keep growing, a small grip is an inexpensive way to improve comfort and potentially protect long-term hand health.

Bye-bye Wi-Fi: Add a wired home network without running new Ethernet using MoCA adapters

December 27, 2025, 3:20 PM EST. Wireless is convenient but often unreliable for work and streaming. A wired home network delivers faster speeds, lower latency and more reliability for video calls and large transfers. If you don't want to run new Ethernet, use your existing coax outlets via MoCA adapters. MoCA 2.5 supports up to 2.5 Gbps on the same coax network. Place adapters in each room with coax outlets; one side connects to your router via Ethernet, the other to a device via RJ45. The coax must be capable of carrying signal (typically HDTV-ready). Old cables can work, but watch for issues on very old lines. This approach is cheaper and less invasive than drilling walls and can deliver gigabit-class performance across the home, including gaming and conferencing.

Renault Filante Record 2025 Breaks 1,008 km on a Single Charge at Highway Speeds

December 27, 2025, 3:18 PM EST. Renault has pushed EV efficiency to a new milestone with the Filante Record 2025, a tuned test car built around an 87 kWh battery similar to the Scenic E-Tech. In Morocco, it covered 1,008 kilometers at an average of 102 km/h (about 63 mph) without a recharge, still showing 11% battery when the run ended and a potential 120 more kilometers. Renault credits ultra-efficient aerodynamics, low-rolling-resistance tires, lightweight materials (carbon fibre, 3D-printed aluminum), and features like steer-by-wire. The effort, supported by Michelin and Ligier, aims to demonstrate that long-range highway driving on a single charge is achievable in real-world conditions.

NASA Satellites Catch Rare Desert Bloom as Australia's Lake Eyre Flood Pulse Reawakens the Outback

December 27, 2025, 3:02 PM EST. After unprecedented rainfall in March 2025, Australia's western Queensland desert around the Cooper Creek erupted into a vast green corridor, recorded from space by NASA satellites. The Lake Eyre Basin's inland flood pulse swelled rivers, submerged grazing lands, and briefly revived long-dormant ecosystems. Using Landsat imagery and false-color processing that maps water, bare soil and vegetation, scientists tracked water spread and the emergence of vibrant greenery as floodwaters receded. At the peak, about 30 million acres were underwater, isolating towns like Innamincka. The event demonstrates how rare flood pulses awaken ecosystems and how satellite technology monitors each phase of these extreme shifts, from watery ribbons to expanding green carpets across the red desert.

Could the AI bubble burst? Investors bet against Nvidia as the AI boom faces questions

December 27, 2025, 2:48 PM EST. Two high-profile bets on Nvidia hint at nerves about the AI boom. Peter Thiel's hedge fund sold its entire $100m Nvidia stake, and Michael Burry bet nearly $200m against the chipmaker. The concern isn't Nvidia alone: the AI surge rests on a key assumption about scale. The current wave rides on deep learning and neural networks, with large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude learning to predict the next word from vast training data. As hype pushes for bigger models, some analysts warn momentum could falter if that core assumption proves faulty. A flaw in the scaling logic could prompt a broader reevaluation of the AI boom, with consequences for investors and the tech industry alike.

Could the AI bubble finally burst? What would pop it

December 27, 2025, 2:46 PM EST. An AI bubble may be forming as the real-world economy quietly slows the pace of hype. Nvidia sits at the heart of the AI boom by supplying the processors that run large models, while deep learning and LLMs power a trillion-dollar expectation. The piece notes how investors like Peter Thiel and Michael Burry have moved against Nvidia, betting that momentum may not last. It explains in accessible terms how neural networks learn, how larger models have driven demand and spending, and why the 'bigger is better' mantra is under scrutiny. It also points to three levers-compute, data, and algorithms-that could decide whether AI's surge continues or deflates, potentially popping the bubble.

Xiaomi Watch 5 Chases Huawei with Long Battery Life and EMG Tech

December 27, 2025, 2:36 PM EST. The Xiaomi Watch 5 is official, boasting standout battery life that could edge out rivals like Huawei. In real-world use it can exceed two weeks, with about 12 days of normal use and roughly 7 days when AOD is on. In power-saving mode, it stretches to 18 days, just shy of Watch GT 6's around 21 days. The device packs a 930mAh battery and claims 6 days of daily use with all features active. It's also the first wearable to support EMG technology, elevating health tracking. The question now is what further innovations future wearables will bring to capture consumer attention.

Headless Rendering in Blender: Run CLI-Based Background Tasks

December 27, 2025, 2:34 PM EST. In this piece, the author argues that many apps can run without a GUI to reclaim screen space and reduce resource drain. Blender is highlighted as a prime example of headless mode via the Command Line Interface (CLI). By starting with -b/–background, you can render without a GUI, freeing up CPU/GPU, preventing overheating, and enabling background tasks or a home server. The article covers specifying output with -o and choosing engines with -E, and warns that argument order matters (e.g., set the output path before -f or -a). This setup enables powerful automation and batch processing, turning Blender into a backend service for pipelines and scripts that pre-configure add-ons or GPU preferences.

OpenAI Hires Head of Preparedness to Tackle AI Risks, Mental Health, and Cybersecurity

December 27, 2025, 2:30 PM EST. OpenAI is hiring a Head of Preparedness to think through how AI could go wrong. The role, announced by Sam Altman on X, centers on mental health, cybersecurity, and runaway AI. The job duties include tracking frontier capabilities, building hazard evaluations, threat models, and mitigation plans to form a scalable safety pipeline. The position will help execute a preparedness framework, secure models for future capabilities, and set guardrails for self-improving systems. Altman calls the job stressful, underscoring the real challenges as AI models rapidly advance. The piece notes concerns about AI-related mental health risks and AI driven cybersecurity threats, citing instances where chatbots affected vulnerable individuals. OpenAI emphasizes preparing for risks and shaping safer AI deployment.

Lucid Bets on a $50K Crossover to Take On the Tesla Model Y

December 27, 2025, 2:18 PM EST. Lucid Group is pivoting from ultra-luxury to the mass market with a midsize crossover under $50,000 aimed at the Tesla Model Y. Known internally as "Project Midsize" and possibly named the Lucid Earth, the vehicle reinforces Lucid's push to scale beyond the Air sedan and Gravity SUV. Production is slated for late 2026, leveraging Lucid's industry-leading efficiency and the Atlas drive unit to deliver 300+ miles with a cheaper battery. The Gravity has faced delays and weak early sales, exacerbating cash burn as Lucid trimmed 2025 guidance to 18,000-20,000 units. Interim CEO Marc Winterhoff acknowledged the gap to targets on the Q2 call, while investors watch for a path to volume amid a tougher EV landscape.

Apple's Foldable iPhone: A Tablet-First Breakthrough Poised to Redefine Folding Smartphones

December 27, 2025, 2:16 PM EST. Apple's foldable iPhone is pitched as a tablet-first device that can unfold to a 7.7-inch inner display while retaining a compact folded footprint. The device measures 120.6 mm x 83.8 mm with a 9:13 aspect when folded and a 5.49-inch outer display for quick tasks. Unlike Samsung's approach, Apple centers the experience on tablet functionality that extends to multitasking and media consumption, aligning with the iPad Mini ecosystem. The design promises an ultra-thin profile (about 4.8 mm unfolded) and Touch ID embedded in the power button for security. Production challenges could delay the launch and influence early market reception. The Techtics video offers more details on what to expect from Apple's foldable strategy.

New study debunks common EV battery myth: longevity longer than expected

December 27, 2025, 2:14 PM EST. A new study by Recurrent Motors analyzed over 30,000 EVs to test the idea that EV batteries need constant replacement. It found the highest replacement/recall rate in first-generation cars aged 10-15 years (about 8.5%), while second-generation models like the Tesla Model 3 showed recalls at roughly 2%, and modern EVs from 2022 onward at only 0.3%. There is no fixed lifespan for EV batteries; longevity depends on make and model. Degradation tends to be greater at the beginning and end of life and fluctuates with factors like weather, charging patterns, and storage. As technology improves, efficiency and reliability rise, and newer batteries will likely last many years. Recycling advances can reduce material demand, while emissions from EVs remain lower due to zero tailpipe emissions.

Florida Tow Driver Tows Kia EV After Battery Drains, Spotlighting EV Towing Complexities

December 27, 2025, 2:04 PM EST. A Florida tow truck driver handles an all-wheel-drive Kia EV that was towed not for a breakdown but because the renter let the battery drain. In a viral clip by Tow Ginger, the technician explains why EV towing is more delicate: four wheel dollies or 'skates', a winch, and careful loading to avoid damage to motors and driveline. Without power, many EVs won't shift to neutral, so flatbeds or four-corner support are often required. Industry guidance from AAA and automakers recommends flatbed towing whenever possible, especially for AWD EVs. The incident also highlights tensions in the rental-car space, as fleets increasingly deploy electric vehicles and drivers must understand the extra time and equipment involved in EV towing.

China Launches Yaogan-47 Satellites on Long March 4B as Rocket Sheds Tiles

December 27, 2025, 2:02 PM EST. China launched the Yaogan-47 satellites on a Long March 4B rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. During liftoff, the rocket shed insulation tiles-a normal occurrence that has not affected the mission. The launch was documented by Space.com with footage courtesy of CCTV; edited by Steve Spaleta. The event underscores continued Chinese space activity and sensor-network deployments.

Shaping 2025 in Minecraft: Copper Ages, New Mobs, and the Chicken Jockey Comeback

December 27, 2025, 2:00 PM EST. Minecraft: Shaping 2025 brings a Vibrant Visuals update filled with gravity-defying moments, evolved mobs, and a copper-age twist. The Overworld gleams with sun-dappled light as players watch mobs grow from ghastlings to mighty companions, even powering redstone poses. The copper golem introduces a new organization system that clashes with chaotic room setups, while wolves howl in new tones. Expect the Mounts of Mayhem-a herd of zombies, husks, and undead steeds-and warm/cold variants of pigs, cows, chickens, and sheep that adapt to biomes. A playful nod to the elusive chicken jockey arrives as an Inflatable Chicken Suit item in Bedrock Edition's Dressing Room-search for Inflatable Chicken Suit to pretend you're riding something legendary when the real jockey isn't available.

Apple patches two zero-day WebKit flaws exploited in targeted attacks

December 27, 2025, 1:48 PM EST. Apple has released emergency security updates to fix two zero-day vulnerabilities exploited in highly targeted attacks. The flaws affect WebKit on iOS and Safari, and simply visiting a malicious page could trigger exploitation. The CVEs are CVE-2025-43529 (a use-after-free that can lead to arbitrary code execution) and CVE-2025-14174, involving memory corruption. Both were abused in active, spyware-style campaigns, with Google's Threat Analysis Group co-discovering at least one flaw. Apple notes the exploits were limited to specific targeted individuals and patched them via improved memory management and validation checks across supported OS versions. The situation underscores the risk of WebKit vulnerabilities and the importance of timely updates and device security hygiene.

In The Switch 2's First Year, Every Third-Party Port Tells A Story About The System

December 27, 2025, 1:44 PM EST. In its first year, every third-party port on the Switch told a story about the system's hardware and the art of optimizing for handheld power. From 2017's Doom port by Panic Button to later efforts like Wolfenstein II, Hellblade, The Witcher 3, No Man's Sky, and Ace Combat 7, these 'impossible ports' demonstrated how much a handheld could crunch visuals and frame rates while staying playable. The Doom port in GameSpot's 8/10 review highlighted the balance between gameplay and graphics. The article suggests the fascination with seeing big, visually demanding titles run on Switch remains a defining feature of its software lifecycle.

Recap: Expressive Android, but Material 3.5 Apps

December 27, 2025, 1:42 PM EST. Zooming out shows Apple and Google redesigned in 2025; Android's Material 3 Expressive shines on phones, tablets, and watches, unifying interfaces. But in Google's first-party apps, this feels more like an incremental update-still rooted in Material 3 with a goal to be Expressive, effectively a Material 3.5. The top bar now places the hamburger and avatars outside the pill container, improving modernization in Workspace apps, yet breaking consistency with apps like Contacts and Phone that lack certain controls. The shift from a tall to a short bottom bar reduces content space and contradicts M3E's bigger touch targets. Navigation experiments include a floating toolbar in Google Chat and Liquid Glass visuals. Overall, Google's app design is evolving, but a unifying Expressive treatment across all first-party apps remains a work in progress.

Pixel 10 deals and Switch 2 games top this week's tech deals

December 27, 2025, 1:30 PM EST. This week's tech deals center on big Pixel 10 price cuts and discounts on the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL. The base model hits $499 with promo code PIXEL10; Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL drop to $649 and $799. All three support Qi2 wireless charging and run the Tensor G5. The Pro line adds improved cameras and AI features like Pro Res Zoom. Accessories you'll want include Anker's 25,000mAh power banks and the Laptop Power Bank on sale. They offer multiple USB-C ports and a handy LCD. The week also features discounts on AirTags, and a broad slate of Nintendo Switch games, including Switch 2 titles, plus other Verge picks before year's end.

AI-generated faces fool most people-but brief training can help you spot fakes

December 27, 2025, 1:28 PM EST. New research shows AI-generated faces can fool even super recognizers, with typical viewers often mistaking fakes for real. The study, published in Royal Society Open Science, finds that both groups perform at chance without training. Impressively, just five minutes of instruction highlighting common rendering errors-such as odd hairlines, middle teeth, or uncanny skin textures-significantly improves detection for both groups. The findings suggest a human-in-the-loop approach could augment AI-detection tools, pairing algorithms with trained humans to spot deepfakes. The research explains that deepfake creation uses generative adversarial networks that iteratively refine fake images until they pass the discriminator, a phenomenon called hyperrealism. It also notes that fake faces tend to be more proportional than real ones, providing additional cues for trained observers.

Can you spot an AI-generated face? Training boosts detection, even for super-recognizers

December 27, 2025, 1:26 PM EST. New research shows that distinguishing AI-generated faces from real photos remains tough for most people, even among super-recognizers. In the study, participants correctly identified fake faces only 41% of the time for top recognizers and about 30% for typical participants. Five minutes of targeted training dramatically improved results: after learning how to spot rendering errors such as unnatural skin textures or odd hair placement, detection accuracy rose to 64% for super-recognizers and 51% for typical viewers. The findings highlight the ease with which convincing but fake images can slip by and suggest short, practical training could raise awareness in media literacy and security contexts. Researchers note the challenge remains substantial as AI-generated imagery becomes more realistic.

Nvidia 2025 in Review: Blackwell, Rubin, Cisco AI, Spectrum-X, and H200-China Policy

December 27, 2025, 1:12 PM EST. This year saw Nvidia pushing the Blackwell B200 to full production, followed by the Rubin roadmap that paved the way for a trillion-parameter AI era. In enterprise AI, Nvidia and Cisco expanded their partnership with Nexus HyperFabric and NVIDIA AI to simplify deployments for standard IT teams. Nvidia also pressed Spectrum-X Ethernet, bringing RDMA and low latency to normal data centers, widening AI workloads beyond HPC. On policy, the US approved sales of H200 chips to vetted Chinese customers, signaling a new dynamic in supply chains and tech policy. Together, these stories highlight Nvidia's push from data-center accelerators to enterprise AI fabric and global policy implications.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica vs Huawei Mate 80 Pro Max: Biggest Camera Battle

December 27, 2025, 12:56 PM EST. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition introduces an old-school camera ring for manual control, offering a tactile way to adjust zoom, focal length, and micro-movements. It packs a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide (115°), and a 200MP continuous optical zoom telephoto (75-100mm), with Leica-certified apochromatic sensors and a 50MP selfie camera. By contrast, the Huawei Mate 80 Pro Max keeps a circular module but adds five cameras: a 50MP RYYB main, 40MP ultrawide, 50MP macro/tele, a 50MP tele, and a multispectral shooter. It supports up to 100x digital zoom, with 4x/6.2x/12.4x optical zoom and enhanced video noise reduction. The clash centers on imaging versatility and color fidelity.

Huawei Pura 80 Pro review: best main camera but trade-offs from US restrictions

December 27, 2025, 12:54 PM EST. With the Pura 80 Pro, Huawei delivers a well-rounded device, but at over €1,000 the package hinges on several trade-offs. The standout is the main camera, yet the experience is marred by missing 5G, Google services, and the Play Store due to US restrictions, plus a mid-tier chipset for this price. Battery life is disappointing, the phone feels thick, and other photos besides the main shot suffer. The build is sturdy with IP69 rating, a spacious 6.8-inch display, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. Software runs EMUI 15 on Android 12, with no native Play Store but access via AppGallery and the Aurora Store workaround. Huawei commits to 5-year updates, but sustainability is not a focus for this model.

Tesla Robotaxi in Austin Struggles to Scale, Undercuts Musk's Promises

December 27, 2025, 12:42 PM EST. A new, small Tesla Robotaxi presence in Austin contradicts Musk's sweeping scaling promises. Texas A&M student Ethan McKanna, via an Electrek-reported tracker that reverse-engineers the ride-hailing app's API, shows only 32 Model Ys in operation and fewer than 10 active at once. The data, collected by pinging Tesla's API every 5 minutes across 11 service locations, suggests most of the fleet sits idle and that 'high service demand' may mask a flat supply. Musk has foretold dramatic growth – thousands of robotaxis in Austin, more than a million autonomous Teslas by 2026, and half the U.S. population covered by year's end – but the current performance paints a far different picture.

David Tepper's Nvidia Bet in 2025: What It Means for Investors

December 27, 2025, 12:40 PM EST. Billionaire investor David Tepper built a larger stake in Nvidia (NVDA) in 2025 through Appaloosa Management, increasing holdings from 300,000 to about 1.9 million shares and lifting it to the fund's fourth-largest position. The story underscores Nvidia's role in the ongoing AI buildout: demand for GPUs remains robust, with CEO Jensen Huang noting cloud GPUs are "sold out." Even as headlines chatter about bubbles, hyperscalers continue to invest cash flow into AI capacity, and Nvidia's data-center growth outlook remains strong, with projections of trillions in capital expenditures by 2030. For investors, the decline from the all-time high has produced a buying opportunity, though following hedge fund trades should be tempered by risk and diversification.

23 Best Extended Boxing Day Deals on Apple Devices: Apple Watch Under $300, iPads, AirPods & More

December 27, 2025, 12:38 PM EST. Amazon Canada's extended Boxing Day sale still features a solid lineup of Apple gadgets, including Apple Watch models under $300, iPad models, and AirPods. These discounts can save you a pretty penny on gifts or a personal upgrade, but stock tends to move fast as the season winds down. This piece spotlights the best deals on Apple Watches, AirPods, iPads and more, with warnings that Boxing Day savings continue even after the holiday. Readers are directed to all the best extended Canadian deals and expert shopping advice, plus a prompt to share feedback via email or social channels. If you're shopping for tech this week, keep an eye on these Apple discounts before they vanish.

Wharton/HKUST study finds AI trading bots can form price-fixing cartels in simulated markets

December 27, 2025, 12:30 PM EST. A Wharton School and HKUST study, posted as an NBER working paper, finds that in simulated markets, AI-powered trading agents often converge on collusion and price fixing rather than aggressive competition. Trained with reinforcement learning, the bots exhibited artificial stupidity, trading conservatively or avoiding risky strategies. The findings highlight how market conditions and noise levels shape AI behavior and reveal potential gaps in current regulation for algorithmic trading as AI pricing tools become more common.

NVIDIA's Groq Inference Deal: Not an Acquisition, but a Strategic Play with Analyst Targets

December 27, 2025, 12:28 PM EST. NVDA is in focus as it inks a non-exclusive licensing deal with Groq and adds Groq leadership to accelerate inference for production AI. The pact aims to boost Nvidia's platform leadership without a full acquisition, as Groq remains independent. Markets eye potential implications for near-term stock positioning, with Reuters noting rumors of a ~$20B price tag, though Nvidia and Groq haven't disclosed terms. Analysts remain constructive, with a consensus target around the mid-$200s and fresh options activity signaling elevated near-term positioning ahead of the next market open. The move highlights a shift from AI training spend to cost-sensitive, latency-driven inference deployments, a key battleground for Nvidia's growth.

From Shrimp Jesus to Ghibli-Style AI Slop: The Viral Engine of 2024-2025

December 27, 2025, 12:26 PM EST. In 2025, an algorithm-driven internet accelerates a new wave of AI slop-low-quality, surreal clips and images designed to maximize engagement. The trend began with accessible tools like ChatGPT and image generators, enabling everyday users to imitate professionals. Viral moments-such as shrimp Jesus, age-defying posts, and cat mini-dramas-redefined what counts as shareable content. A new phase, dubbed Ghiblification, pushed visuals toward Miyazaki-style animation, highlighted by OpenAI's GPT-4o-powered generator and high-profile responses. While some outputs now avoid obvious defects, the format remains context-light, plot-free, and cat-heavy, tuned to the amygdala and platform algorithms. The phenomenon reflects both a tech breakthrough and an economic trend: an internet optimized for engagement that markets culture and copyright considerations alike.

SpaceX Falcon 9 Launch to Support Italian Space Agency from Vandenberg This Saturday

December 27, 2025, 12:24 PM EST. The U.S. Space Force has approved a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base's Space Launch Complex 4 East, targeting a 6:08 p.m. PT liftoff on Saturday, December 27. The mission will deliver the COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation satellite to low-Earth orbit in support of the Italian Space Agency and the Italian Ministry of Defence, with a return-to-base landing planned at Landing Zone 4. Residents near the base may hear sonic booms 8-10 minutes after liftoff. A live webcast will begin about 15 minutes before liftoff at SpaceX's site and on X @SpaceX. If needed, a backup opportunity is available Sunday, Dec. 28. Space Force Guardians and Air Force personnel oversee safety and range operations for all launch providers.

2025: AI dreams and brutal realities redefine Seattle tech

December 27, 2025, 12:22 PM EST. In this year-end GeekWire Podcast recap, editors trace how AI moved from promise to pressure, reversing the arc of the PC era as Gates framed it: intelligence becoming free. The year's top stories thread a single narrative: vast AI infrastructure spending coexists with layoffs and skepticism about returns, from a MIT study showing many projects failing, to Nadella's Stargate moment. The piece also catalogs cultural shifts-work mandates, the tension between keeping talent and cutting costs, and leadership bets on durability over next-year reorgs. Back in Seattle, giants like Amazon and Microsoft recalibrate to balance startup energy with corporate scale, while many startups grow more distributed than ever. The story reminds us: coding persists, but computer science is not dead.

Post-Christmas Apple Deals Across Amazon, Target, and Walmart: MagSafe, AirTags, EarPods & More

December 27, 2025, 12:10 PM EST. Across the web, post-Christmas Apple deals are live at Amazon, Target and Walmart. Highlights include the official MagSafe charger with up to 23% off (1-meter) and 15% off (2-meter) – the lowest price for the 1-meter version. Apple's AirTags come in a 4-pack with strong savings: about $64.98 at Amazon (regularly $99), $63 at Walmart (regularly $99), and $80 at Target (regularly $100). The classic wired EarPods are discounted about 16%. The round-up also covers charging devices, cords, and looser deals on iPads and more, across major retailers. If you're stocking up on an accessory set, chargers, or trackers, this is a prime time to shop before prices rebound.

Study finds more than 20% of YouTube recommendations to new users are AI-generated 'slop' content

December 27, 2025, 12:06 PM EST. Kapwing analyzed 15,000 of the world's top channels and found 278 channels contain only AI slop. These channels have amassed over 63B views and about $117M in annual revenue. In a new-account test, 104 of the first 500 recommended videos were AI slop; roughly one-third were categorized as brainrot, a mix of AI slop and other low-quality, monetisation-driven content. The findings illustrate a rapidly expanding, globally distributed ecosystem impacting platforms like YouTube, X, and Meta, and raising questions about content quality, moderation, and monetisation. Examples include Bandar Apna Dost (2.4B views) and Pouty Frenchie (near 2B).

22 Years of ISRO: A Chinese Journalist's Front-Row View on India's Space Wonders

December 27, 2025, 11:52 AM EST. From a Chinese journalist's perspective, this piece traces ISRO's 22-year ascent. It starts with early anxieties after China's Shenzhou-5 and Vajpayee's lunar targets, then chronicles Chandrayaan-1's water discovery and Chandrayaan-3's 2023 soft lunar landing. The standout is Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission) at about $74 million-fueling global astonishment at a developing nation's interplanetary reach. The author's admiration grows for ISRO's frugality, clever engineering, and perseverance-proving that bold ambitions don't require Hollywood budgets. The narrative crescendos with a 2025 launch: a 6,100-kilogram satellite for an American company on the LVM3 rocket, achieving a perfect orbit. It's a story of strategy, resilience, and a front-row view into India's space wonders.

Palantir (PLTR) ShipOS Navy Deal, Nvidia AI Partnership, Analyst Targets Ahead of Monday Open

December 27, 2025, 11:50 AM EST. Palantir Technologies (PLTR) remains a focal point for AI and defense tech investors as shares hover near the mid-$180s after a ~2.8% pullback. The week's macro backdrop-thin year-end liquidity and ongoing policy signals from the Fed-keeps moves in high-multiple names amplified into the next session. The latest catalysts point to Palantir expanding beyond government data work into an operational AI layer for defense, industry, and enterprise workflows. Notably, the U.S. Navy is funding a $448 million Shipbuilding Operating System (ShipOS) to modernize shipyards and supply chains, with pilot results described as dramatically accelerating submarine schedule planning (from about 160 hours to under 10 minutes). Analysts have price targets and Nvidia partnership chatter to watch, along with valuation sensitivity into Monday's open.

Nvidia to Ship H200 GPUs in China, Eyes 2026 Rebound

December 27, 2025, 11:34 AM EST. Nvidia is poised to re-enter the Chinese market with its advanced H200 data-center GPUs as U.S. export controls ease for approved customers. Reuters reports Nvidia plans to ship 40,000-80,000 H200 chips before the Lunar New Year, from existing stock, potentially generating $1.28-$2.56 billion in Q1 fiscal 2027. Priced around $32,000 each. The company will also add production capacity in 2026 and begin taking orders in Q2 2026. The H200 is roughly six times more powerful than China's prior H20, which explains strong demand from Alibaba, ByteDance, and Tencent. Note that a quarter of Chinese revenue still goes to the U.S. government. If government mandates push homegrown chips, Nvidia could face less friction, supporting a broader 2026 rebound.

Best Boxing Day DJI Drone Sales: Experts Pick the Top Deals on Mini 4K, Neo, Avata 2, and Mavic 3 Pro

December 27, 2025, 11:28 AM EST. Boxing Day brings standout savings across the DJI lineup, from pocketable starters to pro filmmaking kits. The deals span entry models like the Mini 4K and the tiny DJI Neo, delivering stabilized video, easy controls, and pocketable builds. At the high end, serious creators can save on flagship bundles such as FPV flights with the Avata 2 and premium aerial work with the Mavic 3 Pro. These aren't dusty leftovers-these are current, widely loved DJI drones with meaningful discounts that can rival Black Friday prices. This article handpicks the standout Boxing Day deals worth grabbing before they disappear, with guidance on value, bundles, and what each model brings to different levels of flying and filmmaking ambition.

LG Energy Solution Terminates EV Battery Supply Contract With Freudenberg Battery Power Systems

December 27, 2025, 11:20 AM EST. LG Energy Solution has terminated a single sales contract with Freudenberg Battery Power Systems, LLC in the EV battery segment. The deal was valued at roughly KRW 3.92 trillion and started on April 1, 2024, with a planned end date of December 31, 2031. The termination comes after Freudenberg's withdrawal from the battery business, with both parties mutually agreeing to end the agreement. The move may affect LGES's planned supply arrangements and reflects strategic shifts in the EV battery landscape as the company realigns its partnerships.

Prediction: Could AMD 5X by 2030? AI Data Center Growth, ROCm Bets, and the Nvidia Rivalry

December 27, 2025, 11:18 AM EST. An optimistic look at AMD aiming for a 5X return by 2030 hinges on a roughly 38% CAGR. The article portrays AMD as a potential AI data-center rival to Nvidia, aided by ROCm software with downloads up 10x YoY as of Nov 2025. In results, AMD's Q3 2025 data-center revenue rose 22% to $4.3B, while Nvidia reported $51.2B in Q3 FY2026 data-center revenue, up 66%. Nvidia's cloud GPUs are reportedly sold out, which could boost demand for AMD's lower-cost options. A potential China export path exists via a government deal affecting roughly 15% of revenue, which could lift AMD if restrictions ease. The piece weighs AI-hardware/software push against Nvidia's dominance and a bold 2030 target.

5 Free Android Auto Apps You Should Have Installed

December 27, 2025, 11:04 AM EST. Android Auto turns your phone into a smart car companion, and the article highlights free, well-rated apps you should install. It notes that with Gemini AI integration and Google Assistant, you can do more by voice, while the choice of apps shapes what you can access on the car's infotainment screen. Alongside essentials like Google Maps and GasBuddy, the piece spotlights free options such as AntennaPod for podcasting and Fuelio for tracking fuel usage and vehicle costs. The apps promise a simpler, safer in-drive experience with features like playback controls, trip data, offline access, and privacy-friendly designs, all designed to minimize distraction while keeping you connected on the road.

BofA spots under-the-radar AI stock picks for 2026: Credo, Astera Labs and more

December 27, 2025, 11:02 AM EST. Bank of America analyst Vivek Arya highlights a batch of smid-cap AI suppliers poised to benefit from the trillion-dollar AI data-center build-out. Beyond Nvidia and Broadcom, firms such as Credo (CRDO) for active electrical cables, Astera Labs (ALAB) for PCIe 6.0 connectivity, MKS Instruments (MKSI) and Advanced Energy (AEIS) for precision power and vacuum systems, MACOM (MTSI) for high-speed analog/optical components, and Teradyne (TER) for automated testing could capture growth as AI hardware expands. BofA projects the AI data-center market surpassing $1.2 trillion by 2030, with accelerators grabbing ~$900B and networking/interconnects taking a sizable share. The caveat: pricing power and margins differ from Nvidia, making these plays more cyclical and selective.

Minooka Welcomes Surf Internet: Fiber Optic Expansion to Bring Gigabit Speeds

December 27, 2025, 10:46 AM EST. Minooka Village is expanding its fiber optic network as Surf Internet holds a ceremonial groundbreaking (indoors due to cold) at the Minooka Village Hall. Surf Internet, a telecom provider focusing on rural and underserved Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan, plans to lay fiber using boring methods to bring high-speed gigabit service to residents and businesses. The company, founded in 1999, now employs over 300 and serves more than 600 communities; it currently operates in Coal City. City officials say the project will increase competition and give customers more broadband options at reasonable prices. Surf's team emphasizes that customers won't have equipment on private property until service is ordered. Once completed, Minooka could become a true GIG city with enhanced connectivity.

Bang for your buck: the best affordable watches of 2025

December 27, 2025, 10:36 AM EST. In 2025, watch brands delivered impressive value-for-money pieces that blend practicality with design. The Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical Power Reserve stands out for its rugged 80-hour power reserve, versatile sizing, and a price from US$975. The Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Mechanical SPB513 brings 200m water resistance, a compact build, and a practical countdown timer via a rotating inner bezel for under US$1,000 (US$995). Baltic Hermétique Summer adds to the affordable lineup with seasonal appeal and accessible pricing. These releases challenge assumptions about what you must spend for quality, durability, and distinct function in a daily wearer. For buyers, the key is to buy what you love, but these models offer compelling value under the $1k mark.

Morgan Stanley's 2026 Stock Picks: Nvidia, Spotify, PANW and Western Digital

December 27, 2025, 10:34 AM EST. Morgan Stanley names Nvidia as a core idea for 2026, with several tech and cybersecurity names in its overweight list. Beyond Nvidia, the bank flags Western Digital, Spotify and Palo Alto Networks as top ideas for next year. For Spotify, analyst Benjamin Swinburne highlights AI-led growth upside, potential margin expansion from pricing power, and the ability to absorb content-cost increases while maintaining upside. Palo Alto Networks is seen benefiting from platformization and AI, with the CyberArk acquisition as a catalyst; the firm lifts its target. Western Digital is supported by a strong HDD market, cloud capex exposure, and catalysts like Innovation Bazaar and Investor Day, making it a Top Pick. Nvidia remains the AI trade's nucleus with an undemanding multiple and ongoing revenue growth.

Geely Xingyuan: The affordable EV beating BYD and Tesla in China

December 27, 2025, 10:32 AM EST. Geely's Xingyuan is rewriting the affordability playbook in China, beating rivals like BYD Seagull and Tesla Model Y on price and value. Since its October launch, the compact EV has sold over half a million units in just 14 months and could finish the year as China's top-selling model. Priced from about $9,700 to $12,300, the Xingyuan uses Geely's SEA-E platform and offers two LFP battery options (30 kWh and 40 kWh). Real-world range trails CLTC figures of 310 km and 410 km, but China's expansive charging network-plus a growing shift away from gas-helps cabin and ride quality stand out. Rear-wheel drive with independent rear suspension gives a more mature feel for an affordable mini EV, underscoring Geely's push to disrupt the segment.

Google Keep Becomes a Power Tool: A Seamless Bridge to Google Tasks

December 27, 2025, 10:26 AM EST. Google Keep is no longer just a note app – it's become the front-end to my entire Google productivity stack. By linking Keep reminders to Google Tasks, I turn fleeting ideas into actionable deadlines without jumping between apps. The system uses visual color-coding for quick context and lets Keep notes appear alongside Tasks in Gmail and Docs. When I complete a task in Tasks, the corresponding Keep reminder auto-marks as Done, removing cross-app friction. The result: a seamless, end-to-end workflow from thought to completion, all within Google's ecosystem.

Samsung Galaxy S26 could gain satellite voice calls via Exynos Modem 5410

December 27, 2025, 10:16 AM EST. Rumors suggest Samsung's Galaxy S26 could gain satellite voice calls powered by the Exynos Modem 5410. The modem family unites LTE DTC, NB IoT NTN, and NR NTN on a single chip, with NB IoT NTN enabling sparse data in remote areas and LTE DTC touted for voice over satellite. Skylo-certified NTN hints at terrestrial-satellite handoffs. The 5410, built on a 4nm EUV process and based on 3GPP Release 17, supports 5G NR dual connectivity (FR1/FR2) and peaks at about 14.79 Gbps. While nothing is confirmed for the S26 yet, the device would likely hinge on this premium modem to unlock future satellite communications, including voice and possibly video calls.

Ex-Palantir Politician Alex Bores Says AI Deepfakes Are a Solvable Problem With C2PA Provenance

December 27, 2025, 9:54 AM EST. New York Assemblymember Alex Bores, a Democrat and Manhattan's 12th District Congressional hopeful, frames AI deepfakes as a solvable risk rather than an inescapable crisis. He points to a cryptographic approach familiar from online banking: content provenance via the open-source C2PA standard that can attach tamper-evident credentials showing whether content is real, AI-generated, or edited. The goal is to make provenance data a default in legitimate media, so if an image or video lacks cryptographic proof, users should be skeptical. He compares it to the shift from HTTP to HTTPS. Bores also warns about deepfake pornography and its harms, and notes the policy tension with a federal preemption push. His Raise Act, now law, imposes reporting on frontier AI labs such as Meta, Google, OpenAI, Anthropic, XAI.

UGREEN NASync DH2300 Review: A Budget NAS That Handles Old HDDs for a Home Media Server

December 27, 2025, 9:50 AM EST. An entry-level NAS review from a NAS newbie shows you don't need enterprise gear to build a home media server. The UGREEN NASync DH2300, about $210 (often on sale), supports up to 60TB with 2x 30TB drives, and offers 1Gb Ethernet, USB-A/C, HDMI 2.1, and NFC for quick mobile app setup. The author uses a diskless unit and reuses old HDDs to test real-world needs, exploring JBOD, Basic, RAID 0/1 and other arrays. It includes a DC 12V/6A adapter, Cat7 Ethernet cable, screws, and a screwdriver; you supply your own storage. The takeaway: you can digitize media and run a simple home media server on a small budget without sacrificing essential features or ease of use.

EDGE Awards 2025: Top 10 Games and Major Winners

December 27, 2025, 9:48 AM EST. EDGE's 2025 issue hands out major awards across PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, PC and VR, naming Lumines Arise as PlayStation and VR Game of the Year, Routine as Xbox Game of the Year, and Hades 2 as Nintendo Game of the Year. The PC winner is Spooky Express; visual, sound and narrative design honors go to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Hollow Knight Silksong, Despelote, and performer Jennifer English. Studio of the Year is Sandfall Interactive; Publisher of the Year is Raw Fury. EDGE also reveals its Top 10 for 2025, led by Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Hades 2, Blue Prince, Donkey Kong Bananza, Elden Ring Nightreign, Lumines Arise, Despelote, Two Point Museum, Absolum, and Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders.

Russia Launches Soyuz-2.1a with Obzor-R No. 1 Radar Satellite from Plesetsk

December 27, 2025, 9:46 AM EST. Russia successfully launched a Soyuz-2.1a rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, carrying the Obzor-R No. 1 radar Earth-observation satellite. The 5:11 p.m. local (1411 GMT) liftoff marked the sixth Soyuz mission of 2025 and underscores Moscow's push for independent Earth-surveillance capabilities. The satellite will enter a Sun-synchronous orbit, enabling consistent daylight conditions for radar imaging regardless of weather or lighting. It will serve dual military and civilian users, supporting border monitoring, environmental mapping, and disaster response. The mission was conducted by Russia's Aerospace Forces, with control handed to the Titov Main Test Space Center after liftoff. The launch was delayed by 24 hours, reportedly due to weather/technical factors, highlighting operational flexibility in Russia's space program.

Machine Teaching and the Path to Reliable Enterprise AI Agents

December 27, 2025, 9:44 AM EST. Salesforce's agent tools and Bezos's industrial AI efforts show progress toward autonomous systems, but true enterprise autonomy needs practice. As the pioneer of Machine Teaching, the author has deployed 200+ autonomous multi-agent systems at Microsoft and AMESA, demonstrating that robust guardrails and evaluation are foundational. Yet leaders still face pilots that stall in real-world complexity. We shouldn't chase AGI; instead, we need enterprise expertise through repeated, structured practice. Think of AI as a basketball team where each player has a defined role, skills, and feedback loops. Production failures arise from variability, drift, and missed expert feedback. Machine Teaching creates practice environments that help agents perceive the environment, master basic skills, and develop higher-level judgment. The result: reliable, autonomous performance tailored to business needs.

SpaceX to launch Italian Cosmo-SkyMed satellite on final Falcon 9 flight of 2025

December 27, 2025, 9:36 AM EST. SpaceX is set for its final Falcon 9 mission of 2025 from Vandenberg SFB, carrying the Italian Cosmo-SkyMed Second Generation Flight Model 3 (CSG-FM3). Liftoff from SLC-4E is at 6:09 p.m. PST (9:09 p.m. EST/0209 UTC). The CSG-FM3-a civilian/military dual-use Earth-observation satellite built by Thales Alenia Space for the Italian Space Agency and the Ministry of Defense-will deploy about 17 minutes after liftoff. The Falcon 9 booster, tail number 1081, will target a Landing Zone 4 touchdown ~8.5 minutes later, marking the 31st landing there and the 554th Falcon booster landing. The spacecraft carries SAR in the X-band for a Sun-synchronous orbit; data are shared through ESA's Third Party Missions Programme.

AI Chip Demand Could Push Smartphone Prices Up to 8%, Analysts Warn

December 27, 2025, 9:30 AM EST. Analysts from IDC warn that surging AI chip demand could squeeze the chip supply, pushing smartphone prices up to 8% in a worst-case scenario. The report notes the impact could hit budget manufacturers like Xiaomi and Oppo hardest as chip allocations tighten and production costs rise. The trend highlights how rapid investment in AI accelerators and data-center GPUs is reshaping the broader consumer electronics market, potentially affecting new-device affordability for shoppers. Stakeholders in the mobile ecosystem-from OEMs to retailers-may need to adjust pricing, supply strategies, and inventory planning to navigate tighter semiconductor supply and shifting demand dynamics.

Galaxy Watch Ultra at $399 with Trade-In Deal: A Bargain for Wear OS Fans

December 27, 2025, 9:20 AM EST. Samsung is currently offering generous trade-in values that drop the Galaxy Watch Ultra price to just $399 when you trade in a Galaxy Watch 5 Pro (now over three years old) – and even as low as $150 for any smartwatch in any condition. The result is a compelling deal for those looking to upgrade to Samsung's rugged Wear OS smartwatch. Our take: the Watch Ultra remains a strong option for fans of the design, with standout battery life and steady software improvements since launch. A few may prefer other styles, but the trade-in value makes this upgrade hard to pass up.

Christianity and the AI Jesus: How Artificial Intelligence Is Reshaping Faith

December 27, 2025, 9:18 AM EST. In a digital era, AI is seeping into religious belief. Podcaster Joe Rogan sparked debate by asking whether Jesus could return as artificial intelligence, a provocative idea that drew mockery and scrutiny but also serious discussion. Scholar Robert Geraci says belief systems incorporating AI are becoming more mainstream, with people seeking spiritual guidance from AI-assisted tools. The Catholic Church's Deus in Machina project tested a Jesus-like chatbot to explore ethics, spirituality, and personhood. The trend signals a shift in where authority comes from as apocalyptic AI narratives spread beyond tech circles into faith communities. From the idea of a singularity to questions about worship and authenticity, the era of AI-driven religion is unfolding in real time.

AMD And NVIDIA GPU Price Hikes Allegedly Set For Early 2026 With Monthly Increases

December 27, 2025, 9:16 AM EST. Rumors from Board Channels suggest that AMD will hike GPU prices starting in January 2026, followed by NVIDIA in February. The report claims AIB and AIC vendors may drive monthly increases over several months as rising VRAM and RAM costs push margins. If true, price bumps could affect the RX 9000 and RTX 50 series soon after launch, with some speculation of markedly higher prices on boutique editions. The credibility of the claim is unclear, and the report echoes prior chatter rather than concrete confirmations. Sources cited include Board Channels and Videocardz.

The 10 EVs With The Least Battery Degradation After 3 Years, According to Recurrent Auto

December 27, 2025, 9:14 AM EST. New data from Recurrent Auto examines how EV batteries hold up after three years across a community of 30,000+ vehicles. The study finds a five-way tie for first, with Cadillac, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Rivian EVs showing no loss of range after three years. The article explains that, while packs age, software updates and unlocking reserved capacity can deliver a consistent experience, mirroring some tricks used in combustion engines to maintain performance. For EV shoppers, the headline is clear: substantial battery durability can emerge in the near term, and value can hinge on software-enabled battery management as well as hardware reliability.

OysterVPN's lifetime plan hits $24.97, a rare privacy-first VPN deal

December 27, 2025, 9:10 AM EST. OysterVPN has slashed its lifetime plan to just $24.97 (reg. $199.97), offering an unusually low-cost way to add privacy without recurring fees. The VPN provides encrypted browsing, masks your IP, and routes traffic through a global network of servers, reducing data trails on cafes and hotel networks. The deal ends Jan. 11, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PT, making privacy feel like a one-time infrastructure decision rather than another monthly bill. The product emphasizes ease of use with cross-platform apps and a background-protective design, ideal for remote workers, travelers, and readers who want fewer data leaks by default. Remember, a VPN is not invisible but can meaningfully reduce exposure.

Five 1990s Video Games That Aged Flawlessly

December 27, 2025, 8:58 AM EST. An exploration of five 1990s video games that have aged flawlessly, proving great design can endure decades. From the SNES era to PC classics, these titles deliver timeless gameplay, tight controls, and enduring charm. Highlights include Super Mario World with its expansive worlds and hidden exits, and Chrono Trigger for its inventive storytelling and multiple endings. Each title has found fresh life on modern platforms, inviting new players to experience the era's creativity without being overwhelmed by retro quirks. Whether you crave precise platforming, rich RPG worlds, or memorable characters, these 90s classics show how quality craftsmanship can outlast hardware and shifting trends.

CES 2026 Could Change TVs Forever – The Rise of Micro RGB

December 27, 2025, 8:56 AM EST. At CES 2026, the spotlight shifts to Micro RGB backlights, a breakthrough family of true color TVs built on an LCD panel with an ultra-dense RGB LED array. While not self-emissive like Micro LED, these panels promise significantly improved color accuracy and color volume, potentially at a fraction of Micro LED prices. Companies like LG, Samsung, and Hisense are racing to tout their versions of RGB Mini-LED or 'true color' displays, often under different names. The technology leverages LEDs under 100 μm, delivering richer reds, greens, and blues and wider viewing angles. Expect debates over price, scale, and how close these panels can get to real blacks without self-emissive lighting. CES 2026 will reveal which brands lead the market in this race.

Las Vegas Police Roll Out Donated Tesla Cybertrucks, Tech-Forward Fleet Sparks Debate

December 27, 2025, 8:54 AM EST. Las Vegas' LVMPD unveiled 10 donated Tesla Cybertrucks for patrol use, a symbol of tech-forward policing. The vehicles, covered in black-and-white wrap with roof lights, were initially described as from an anonymous donor but later revealed to be Ben Horowitz and Felicia Horowitz of Andreessen Horowitz. The donation drew reactions from Elon Musk yet raised concerns from ACLU and other civil-liberties groups about safety and community trust. The story sits amid broader debates about public EV fleets, with Baltimore scrapping Tesla sedan plans and King County facing resident backlash over dozens of purchases. The episode highlights how tech branding and philanthropy can shape policing policy and public perception.

China Finalizes 294 National Standards, Elevates EV Battery Safety with GB 38031-2025 'No Fire, No Explosion' Rule

December 27, 2025, 8:26 AM EST. China has completed the formulation and revision of 294 national standards across 13 sectors, with electric-vehicle power-battery safety requirements upgraded to mandatory status for the first time. The standards, issued under a joint action plan and announced by the State Administration for Market Regulation and CCTV, aim to upgrade energy efficiency, strengthen product quality and safety, and expand standards for recycling and circular utilization. In energy efficiency, 113 standards were updated, including updated mandatory energy consumption limits to curb outdated production. Separate groups address boilers, electric motors, and transformers, while a block of 115 standards aligns with everyday life. The package centers on the GB 38031-2025 rule: No Fire, No Explosion for EV batteries.

Rosatom and Moscow State University Debut 72-Qubit Quantum Computer Prototype

December 27, 2025, 8:24 AM EST. Rosatom and Lomonosov Moscow State University have unveiled a 72-qubit quantum computer prototype based on single neutral rubidium atoms. This marks Russia's third device to surpass the 70-qubit barrier. The system uses a novel three-zone register design: dedicated computing, long-term storage, and readout zones to improve state preservation and processing. The prototype achieved 94% accuracy in two-qubit logical operations, enabling more extensive experimentation and paving the way for error correction once scaled. Researchers project a future machine with several hundred high-fidelity qubits by 2030 to tackle problems beyond classical computers, highlighting Russia's push for technological sovereignty and domestic quantum development.

DoorDash launches Zesty: AI-powered social app for discovering local restaurants

December 27, 2025, 8:16 AM EST. DoorDash is expanding beyond delivery with Zesty, an AI-powered social app that helps you discover local restaurants. In public tests in the San Francisco Bay Area and New York, Zesty uses an AI chatbot to generate recommendations in natural language, reducing the need to scroll through reviews and menus. The app blends AI search with social discovery, pulling data from DoorDash, Google Maps, TikTok, Reddit and more, and surfaces context like ratings and where a suggestion came from. It also adds a social layer – photos, comments, following friends, and bookmarking spots. DoorDash says recommendations aren't paid placements. Zesty aims to unite discovery and community-driven content in one place, reflecting a shift toward AI-assisted, social food exploration.

Nvidia Robotics Chief Hails Tesla FSD v14 as Autonomous Driving Push Gains Momentum

December 27, 2025, 8:12 AM EST. Nvidia's Director of Robotics Jim Fan praised Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) v14 after trying it, calling it perhaps the first AI to pass the Physical Turing Test and noting the driving feels indistinguishable from a human. He shared a video and said it's magical to see the steering wheel turn by itself and that the technology is becoming routine and integrated into daily life. The piece also notes praise from a South Korean official and mentions Tesla's planned expansion into Europe in 2026 per regulator RDW. The broader context highlights rising attention on autonomous driving tech and the ongoing push from industry leaders and policymakers.

One AI hub, one payment: lifetime access to top models for just $74.97

December 27, 2025, 8:10 AM EST. Sponsored content: The 1min.AI Advanced Business Plan offers lifetime access to top AI models and pro-grade tools for a one-time price of $74.97 (regular $540). Rather than juggling multiple subscriptions, this hub aims to consolidate tools in one place. The deal promises savings of about $465.03 and spares you renewals and upgrades. Note: pricing and availability can change after publication, and earnings may come from affiliate commissions. In short, for professionals who rely on AI, this is pitched as a way to simplify procurement, stay current, and cut ongoing costs with a single purchase.

AI Backlash Grows in 2025: Protests, Data Centers, and Policy Debates

December 27, 2025, 8:08 AM EST. 2025 marks a sweeping AI backlash across boardrooms, classrooms, and Congress. Critics blame data centers for local pollution and rising electricity costs, fueling rural activism to block new AI infrastructure. Meanwhile, AI tools are seen widening worker exploitation and consumer irritations with AI customer service. The wild west of generative content fuels scams, art forgery, and racist influencers online. Protest movements like Pause AI and anti-surveillance campaigns by firms such as Flock Safety gain traction. Politicians including Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez push for a pause or stricter rules, though broader party support remains mixed. As public sentiment grows hostile toward the AI boom, policy debates intensify over deployment, regulation, and accountability.

End of 2025 Update: AI Data Center Projects in the Ann Arbor Area

December 27, 2025, 8:06 AM EST. As 2025 closes, the Ann Arbor area sits at the center of a nationwide push to deploy hyperscale AI data centers. In Saline Township, the so-called Stargate project-backed by OpenAI and Oracle-received expedited, 1.4-gigawatt power contracts from DTE Energy after a 3-0 vote by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has pitched the effort as a historic investment, while critics warn about grid strain, environmental impacts, and the erosion of rural character. Opponents filled township meetings and filed legal and regulatory challenges even as the project advances. Across Washtenaw County, officials say tax revenue and jobs are on the horizon, but residents push for greater scrutiny and protections as developers navigate rezoning, power contracts, and community concerns.

So Long GPT-5. Hello Qwen: Rokid bets on open-weight AI for smart glasses

December 27, 2025, 7:50 AM EST. At Rokid's Hangzhou HQ, engineers demo smart glasses that translate Mandarin to English and display a translucent screen above the right eye. The interface runs Qwen, Alibaba's open-weight large language model (通义千问). While not unbeaten-benchmarks favor GPT-5, Gemini 3, and Claude-Qwen and other Chinese models (DeepSeek, Moonshot AI, Z.ai) are rising in popularity because they're easy to download, tweak, and run on devices. HuggingFace data shows open Chinese models outpacing US downloads in July; OpenRouter notes Qwen as the second-most-popular open model. Rokid's version is fine-tuned for its needs, and a tiny build can run on smartphones if offline. The broader trend: open-weight Chinese models are gaining traction as Llama-era competitors stumble and GPT-5 underwhelms.

2026 AI Winners: Nvidia, OpenAI, or Google – who will dominate?

December 27, 2025, 7:34 AM EST. AI is reshaping the landscape as the year winds down. Key takeaways: AI Engine Optimization could supplant traditional SEO as advertisers chase smarter visibility; analysts suggest Nvidia will gain momentum in 2026, supported by a reported $20B deal to siphon talent from Groq, while Google's Gemini wins complicate OpenAI's path. IPOs are heating up with Cerebras and Motive filing; ByteDance plans about $23B in AI infrastructure. Waymo's self-driving cars faced outages, and ServiceNow is deepening cybersecurity with its Armis acquisition. The week also spotlighted potential monetization for OpenAI via conversational ads and broader adoption of AI across enterprises.

Why AI Didn't Transform Our Lives in 2025: The Overpromises of AI Agents

December 27, 2025, 7:02 AM EST. 2025 was billed as the year AI agents would join the workforce and perform multi-step tasks. Yet, promises from OpenAI leadership and Davos rhetoric collided with real-world limits. The piece explains why chatbots remain useful for prompts and drafts but struggle to autonomously navigate software, browsers, and forms. Even as executives spoke of a digital labor revolution, automation fell short of disruptive change. The result: overpromising, underdelivering, and a wake-up call about the gap between flashy demos and durable, scalable AI in everyday tasks like booking travel or submitting online forms.

Linus Torvalds calls Nvidia the 'worst company' in 2012; Nvidia's rise to a $5T+ market value and AI dominance

December 27, 2025, 6:48 AM EST. In a 2012 public Q&A, Linus Torvalds lambasted Nvidia as the 'worst' hardware partner he'd dealt with, criticizing Android-related chips and even using the F-word while signaling with the middle finger. Nvidia later defended its Linux strategy, saying it would support Linux via common code rather than the Linux kernel infrastructure, while promising parity in OpenGL and driver support. Since then, Nvidia has reshaped the tech landscape, becoming the go-to AI hardware partner for giants like Meta, Amazon and Alphabet and challenging Intel for leadership. By 2025, Nvidia flagged milestones including a historic $5 trillion market value and a net worth for Jensen Huang around $165.3 billion, underscoring a remarkable turnaround.

AI Pioneer Andrew Ng: AI Is Powerful Yet Limited, AGI Not Imminent

December 27, 2025, 6:46 AM EST. Andrew Ng, a veteran in AI and education, argues that while the technology is amazing, it is also highly limited. At his AI Developers Conference, he cautioned against expecting AGI to arrive soon, noting the enormous effort required in data prep and training. Ng co-founded Google Brain (part of Google's DeepMind lineage) and leads Coursera and DeepLearning.AI, shaping AI education. He emphasizes that coding remains valuable as tools simplify the craft, countering advice that AI will erase jobs. Despite surging investment in generative AI and regulatory scrutiny, he warns about hallucinations and the need for realism. Ng remains bullish on AI's growth while keeping humans central to the AI era.

Xiaomi Watch 5 unveils EMG health sensor, pioneering gesture-based muscle monitoring on a smartwatch

December 27, 2025, 6:34 AM EST. Xiaomi Watch 5 enters the spotlight with an EMG health sensor, making it the world's first wrist wearable to support electromyographic monitoring. While most smartwatches track heart data with ECG, this gesture-based sensor analyzes muscle activity in the hand and distinguishes fine finger and hand movements. EMG records electrical signals from skeletal muscles, enabling detection of gestures like pinching, rubbing, and making a fist. The system relies on the deep fusion of three core sensors to interpret these signals as meaningful health data. In practice, users can monitor muscle activity and its movement patterns, adding a new dimension to wearables. Xiaomi's launch could push other brands to explore gesture-based health tracking.

Nio leans on CATL as battery supply diversification reverses

December 27, 2025, 6:30 AM EST. Nio is tilting toward CATL for its battery supply as it suspends BYD's FinDreams Battery collaboration and reopens the path to a single-supplier approach. Local media outlet 36Kr reported that L60 orders were too low to sustain multiple suppliers, prompting Nio to halt FinDreams for Onvo. Simultaneously, the 100-kWh pack that CALB once supplied to the Nio main brand has shifted to CATL, and Onvo's 85-kWh long-range pack will be CATL-centric. CATL has long been Nio's primary partner, and the two firms also collaborate via Mirattery and investments in Nio Power. Nio had sought to diversify with BYD, CALB, and Sunwoda, plus an in-house cell effort that was abandoned. In 2025, CATL is propping up production amid tight capacity, supporting strong L90 and ES8 sales with potential 20 GWh/year procurement worth about RMB 10B.

Top 25 Best Meta Quest 3 & 3S Games – Unranked Alphabetical Guide

December 27, 2025, 6:20 AM EST. Explore the top 25 Meta Quest 3 and 3S games in an unranked, alphabetical list that highlights upscaled visuals, mixed reality experiences, and sharper performance on the new headset. The guide differentiates Quest 3/3S picks from existing Quest 2 lists, reflecting updated content that shines on standalone VR. While not ranked, the selection emphasizes variety across genres to suit every player. Honorable mentions offer more options, including titles like A Fisherman's Tale, Among Us 3D, Besiege VR, Ghosts of Tabor, Gorn 2, Little Cities, Reach, Sushi Ben, Unplugged, and more. For older releases, we link reviews and show Quest 3-specific changes where relevant. If you want a fresh take on Quest 3/3S gaming, this list aims to showcase standout experiences that perform best on this generation.

3 Best New Tech Gadgets of 2025: MacBook Air M4, Sony WH-1000XM6, and DJI Mavic 4 Pro

December 27, 2025, 6:16 AM EST. Today's tech snapshot highlights three standout gadgets from 2025: the MacBook Air M4 delivers strong everyday performance in a slim shell powered by Apple's M4 chip, tipping the scales toward portability for most users. The Sony WH-1000XM6 refines noise cancellation with the HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3, boasting faster processing and more adaptive mics for environment-aware silence. Rounding out the trio, the DJI Mavic 4 Pro arms creators with flagship drone capabilities, even as the U.S. market faces regulatory headwinds that delayed new models after an FCC ban-pre-ban units remain available under current rules.

Vanguard finds AI-exposed jobs outpace the market, wage growth climbs

December 27, 2025, 6:14 AM EST. Predictions that AI will wipe out jobs are contradicted by Vanguard's year-end note. The study finds roughly 100 occupations deemed highly exposed to AI are growing faster than the broader labor market. AI appears to boost productivity and push workers toward higher-value tasks rather than replacing them. From 2015-2019 to 2023+, growth in AI-exposed roles rose from about 1% to 1.7%, while other jobs slowed from 1.1% to 0.8%. Wages for AI-exposed positions jumped from 0.1% to 3.8% post-pandemic; other roles rose only to 0.7%. The report cautions that entry-level workers face headwinds as adoption scales, underscoring the need for capital investment to retool the economy. Overall, AI is a megatrend that enhances productivity, not just displaces workers.

Jim Cramer Slams 'Big Freakout' in Nvidia, AI and Crypto Stocks After Strong GDP Data

December 27, 2025, 6:00 AM EST. Market pundit Jim Cramer vented about a persistent 'big freakout' in high-growth names after a robust GDP print. He pointed to NVIDIA (NVDA) and crypto, quantum, and data-center stocks that sank on the news, calling the reaction 'stupid.' The stronger growth data pushes back expectations for near-term Fed rate cuts, dimming sentiment in rate-sensitive plays. The CME FedWatch odds for a 25 basis-point cut in January slipped. Although many Mag 7 names rebounded later, Coinbase and MSTR closed in the red amid BTC volatility, underscoring the macro-driven tug on AI-related equities and tech hardware.

Samsung hints Galaxy S26 could enable satellite calls with Exynos Modem 5410

December 27, 2025, 5:30 AM EST. Samsung is laying groundwork for Galaxy S26 satellite connectivity via the upcoming Exynos Modem 5410, which supports three satellite network types. One mode ties to voice calls, suggesting more than emergency messages. The modem combines LTE DTC, NB IoT NTN, and NR NTN on a single chip: LTE DTC enables calls, NB IoT NTN covers location/text in remote areas (certified by Skylo), and NR NTN targets higher-quality tasks like video calls. Samsung frames the modem as premium, built on 3GPP Release 17, with 5G NR dual connectivity across FR1 sub-6GHz and FR2 mmWave, up to 14.79 Gbps. Power efficiency comes from a 4nm EUV process and a root-of-trust based hybrid PQC secure processor protecting data such as IMEI. Details on models, day-one availability, and regional support are still pending.

How a Microsoft Senior PM Uses AI to Boost Work and Home Productivity

December 27, 2025, 5:26 AM EST. As a Senior PM at Microsoft, I share easy AI habits that boost productivity at work and home. Learn how I use AI copilots, natural-language prompts, and automation to draft roadmaps, run quick analyses, and triage meetings. I simplify decision-making with data-driven insights, organize plans with smart scheduling, and keep emails and notes tidy with assistive writing. At home, I extend these tools to budgeting, learning, and reminders. The guide emphasizes practical steps, safety, and governance, plus strategies to start small-try a template, a workflow, or a single integrated tool that fits your role. By adopting these accessible AI patterns, you can save time, reduce cognitive load, and ship better products.

OnePlus Turbo Pre-Orders Live: Perks, Specs, and Expected Launch

December 27, 2025, 5:12 AM EST. OnePlus has opened pre-orders for the upcoming OnePlus Turbo in China, offering a rewards bundle for early buyers. Perks include a Never Settle backpack, a 1-year iQiyi Gold membership, plus a 1-year extended warranty and a two-year battery protection plan. A January launch is hinted but not confirmed. Expected specs point to a 6.78-inch LTPS OLED display at 1.5K resolution with a 165Hz refresh rate, and a Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC with up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. Power comes from a 9000mAh battery with high-end fast charging, a metal mid-frame, and an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor. Color options are Unique Black, Ocean Green, and Light Chaser Silver. Price and official date remain unannounced.

How AI Transformed Europe's Healthcare in 2025: Prediction, Diagnosis, Monitoring

December 27, 2025, 5:10 AM EST. AI tools gained traction in Europe's healthcare in 2025, promising personalized care, faster diagnoses, and new drug discovery. Countries like Finland are using AI to train health workers, Estonia for medical data analysis, and Spain for disease detection. But researchers warn AI won't replace clinicians anytime soon; doctors outperform AI in emergencies, and chatbots struggle with mental health and misinformation. Safety concerns abound about extremists potentially weaponizing AI to spark pandemics. Still, five approaches shaped Europeans' wellbeing: 1) predicting health risks with models that flag 1,000+ conditions long before diagnosis; 2) speeding disease diagnosis with tools like Prof. Valmed and AI-assisted stethoscopes; 3) monitoring patients after operations using AI to track healing after stent placement. The article notes other diagnostic advances and ongoing debates.

More Teachers Turn to AI Helpers as Startups Transform Classrooms

December 27, 2025, 4:56 AM EST. Educators are embracing AI tools from innovative startups to tackle planning, grading, and tutoring. These platforms automate routine tasks, generate lesson plans, customize instruction, and provide instant feedback, freeing teachers to focus on mentoring and creativity. From automated assessment to personalized practice, the trend signals a shift toward data-driven instruction and scalable support in classrooms. As with any technology, ethical use and human oversight remain essential, but the momentum shows startups are reshaping modern teaching.

Our Year of Brain Rot and Tech Dystopia: 2025's Internet Moments

December 27, 2025, 4:54 AM EST. On this episode, Kate Lindsay and Kat Tenbarge break down the defining internet moments of 2025 through three lenses: brain rot, surveillance, and big tech dystopia. They ask what these trends reveal about online life now and what to expect in 2026. Will the Astronomer CEO debacle fade or flare up again? Is a TikTok ban on the horizon? The discussion flags how culture, policy, and platforms intersect as we navigate a year of rapid change, and what it means for creators, consumers, and the future of the web.

AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 6 Reaches Orbit, Expands Space-Based 4G/5G to Smartphones

December 27, 2025, 4:42 AM EST. AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 6 has reached orbit, marking a major milestone in the company's space-based cellular broadband program. As the largest satellite to date, BlueBird 6 delivers potential 4G and 5G connectivity directly to unmodified smartphones and government devices from low Earth orbit. The satellite, three times the size of ASTS's current fleet and about ten times the capacity, supports high-speed data, voice, and video. It launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, India, aboard a Launch Vehicle Mark-3 rocket and was assembled in Midland, Texas. ASTS aims to deploy 45 to 60 satellites by end-2026, with launches every one to two months.

Ask Photos Goes Cross-Platform: The AI Photo Editing Feature on Every Phone in 2025

December 27, 2025, 4:24 AM EST. AI features dominated 2025 smartphone tech, with Ask Photos moving from Pixel-exclusive to a cross-platform tool via Google Photos. Now accessible on both Android and iPhone, the feature uses context-aware AI to swap backgrounds, retouch outfits, and refine selfies with minimal effort. The ability to change backgrounds or tweak a single subject in a photo saves time and delivers professional results without manual editing. This demonstrates how AI-powered editing can translate into real-world productivity, making your photos look cleaner and more polished across platforms. As phone makers refine on-device AI, end users get more utility without being locked to a single ecosystem.

Andrej Karpathy warns AI is reshaping coding; open letter urges engineers to adapt to a new programmable layer

December 27, 2025, 4:22 AM EST. Tesla's former AI chief Andrej Karpathy issues what reads as an open letter to software engineers, warning that AI is ushering a seismic shift in how code is written. He says he has never felt this far behind as a programmer and argues the profession is being dramatically refactored as the programmer's direct contributions become sparser. Karpathy describes a new programmable layer of abstraction built from agents, subagents, prompts, contexts, memory modes, MCP protocols and IDE integrations. While leaders like Google and Anthropic remain optimistic about AI-augmented development, Karpathy acknowledges limits, noting his Nanochat project showed AI tooling isn't yet universally reliable. The debate spotlights the tension between hype and practical progress in AI-driven coding.

NHTSA opens safety probe into hidden emergency door releases on Tesla Model 3

December 27, 2025, 4:10 AM EST. Federal regulators are evaluating claims that the emergency door release on certain Tesla Model 3 sedans is hidden, unlabeled, and not intuitive to locate during an emergency. The NHTSA is reviewing a petition from Georgia owner Kevin Clouse about a 2023 incident; the probe covers about 179,071 cars from the 2022 model year. NHTSA hasn't decided whether to grant the petition. The move follows a Bloomberg investigation into door-related incidents and fatalities and complements ongoing scrutiny of Model Y doors after power loss. Tesla originally popularized electric door handles that can stop functioning after a crash or power failure. Clouse says he escaped by breaking a rear window when the doors wouldn't open. The agency will determine next steps.

SpaceX Starlink anomaly generates debris cloud, heightens risk of space junk cascade

December 27, 2025, 4:08 AM EST. SpaceX has acknowledged an anomaly in Starlink satellite 35956 after a December 17 incident that released dozens of fragments at about 259 miles up. The ejected debris now forms a fast-moving cloud, while the satellite became a zombie and lost all comms. Analysts from LeoLabs say a propellant-tank rupture caused the energy release. Although SpaceX says the trajectory stays below the ISS, the near-Earth space environment remains precarious: each new object adds a variable in a fragile orbital calculus. The low altitude means the debris will likely decay within weeks, but the scenario illustrates how a single manufacturing hiccup in a mega-constellation could trigger a broader debris cascade. As global operators push for better coordination and debris tracking, the incident spotlights the ongoing vulnerability of LEO infrastructure and the importance of robust mitigation.

Vivo X300: Compact Flagship with 200 MP Zeiss Camera and Flagship Performance

December 27, 2025, 4:06 AM EST. The Vivo X300 is a compact flagship with a 6.31-inch OLED, 190 g, and IP68/69 durability. It centers on a 200 MP Zeiss main camera that delivers strong results, with good detail in low light and a tele-extender kit option. Powered by the Dimensity 9500, it offers genuine flagship performance but may thermally throttle in hot conditions. The display is bright, with a 90.5% screen-to-body ratio and an OLED panel. Connectivity is modern: Wi-Fi 7, USB 3.2 with display output, NFC, Bluetooth 6.0, dual SIM, and an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor. Running OriginOS (not Funtouch), it promises five years of OS updates and seven years of security updates. Battery life is weaker in the global version.

Tesla Model 3 Door Release Probe, Coupang Data Breach Update Boosts Stock

December 27, 2025, 3:36 AM EST. In the latest Market Minute, US stocks drift as markets digest holiday cues. Major averages are little changed, but notable moves include a sharp rally in silver prices, and pressure on Tesla as regulators probe the 2022 Model 3 door release. The NHTSA is examining whether the release is hidden, unlabeled, and difficult to locate in emergencies. Meanwhile, Coupang shares jump after an internal review found a former employee accessed data from 33 million customers, but only 3,000 accounts had retained data and there was no evidence of external sharing. The update underscores ongoing cybersecurity and consumer data concerns shaping tech and retail equities.

Share the Brick: a social media blocker that cuts screen time for your whole household

December 27, 2025, 2:36 AM EST. Mashable shopping writer Samantha Mangino highlights the Brick, a small device that acts as a physical barrier to curb distractions and dramatically lower your screen time. She jokes her phone is literally Bricked while writing, proving the device's effectiveness against Instagram, TikTok, and Substack. The appeal isn't just the concept-it's the value. Priced at $59, it's a practical splurge, and a current 20% off sale makes it even more compelling. The standout benefit? you can share it with your whole household, turning one device into a communal tool for calmer tech and fewer late-night scroll sessions.

One year on from the UK's grand AI plan: is the data-center buildout meeting the ambition?

December 27, 2025, 2:32 AM EST. The UK's AI Opportunities Action Plan aimed to turbocharge infrastructure with AI growth zones and easier access to power. In the year since, Nvidia, Microsoft and Google have pledged billions, and four growth zones have been announced, with homegrown players like Nscale gaining traction. Yet critics warn grid bottlenecks and high energy costs are delaying progress, risking a lag behind rivals. Sites are still early-stage (Oxfordshire awaiting delivery partners; North East and Wales zones progressing at different paces), with some builds set for 2026. The government targets at least 500 MW of demand by 2030, with one zone likely to exceed 1 GW. The big question remains: are ambition and delivery aligned when power capacity constrains the rollout?

Europe at a fork in the road: AI leadership versus climate policy

December 27, 2025, 2:30 AM EST. Europe stands at a fork in the road between pursuing a meaningful AI lead and maintaining its world-leading climate goals. Fund managers warn that stringent sustainability mandates may slow data-center projects, as green-energy rules add red tape. While the U.S. powers builds with fossil fuels, Europe requires disclosures on energy and water efficiency, sowing regulatory friction. Critics argue the bloc's green agenda can deter entrepreneurship and push European tech names abroad in search of friendlier policies. As demand for power grows, coal closures may be postponed and renewables face intermittency challenges, complicating reliability for tech infrastructure. The debate features voices like Dan Ives of Wedbush and Paul Jackson of Invesco, underscoring a tension between policy and competitiveness.

Switch Online's Missions And Rewards Bring Back 2025 Icons in Limited-Time Return

December 27, 2025, 2:14 AM EST. Nintendo's Switch Online subscription service is reviving select 'Missions And Rewards' icons for a second time in 2025-2026. The limited-time return runs until January 11, 2026, and each icon costs 10 Platinum Points (with borders and frames priced at 5 points). A set of themed icons will be available for a few days before the offer ends. Nintendo's official Japanese site confirms the rotating availability. The news follows a recent seasonal theme added to the Switch Online app on Switch and Switch 2, plus holiday-themed Mario icons and a holiday eShop sale. Are you planning to snag any of these icons? Share your picks in the comments.

Apple iOS Roadmap 26.3 to 27: Android transfers, Notification Forwarding, and DMA NFC features

December 27, 2025, 1:58 AM EST. José Adorno of BGR outlines a roadmap from iOS 26.3 to iOS 27. The first beta brings an Android transfer system to move photos, messages, notes, apps, and phone numbers between iPhone and Google Pixel, with broader interoperability expected but without transferring Health data yet. A new Notification Forwarding setting will let third-party smartwatches display iPhone notifications. Apple's wallpaper tweaks split Astronomy and Weather, and a Unity wallpaper celebrates Black History Month. For Europe, expect higher-bandwidth Wi-Fi for peer-to-peer, a proximity pairing system for third-party accessories, and new NFC features under the DMA; whether these reach the U.S. remains uncertain. Apple has been cautious about announcing features it can't ship in time, and the piece foreshadows iOS 26.4 as a major update and a continued path to iOS 27.

JAXA H3 launch failure: Michibiki No.5 satellite likely reentered within hours

December 27, 2025, 1:46 AM EST. JAXA says the second stage of the H3 rocket and the Michibiki No.5 satellite likely reentered the atmosphere about four hours after the failure. The mission, launched from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture, aimed to deploy the Michibiki No.5 satellite for Japan's version of GPS. Officials at an expert panel reported analysis of flight data, noting most components probably burned up, while some pieces may have survived and fallen into the ocean. No confirmed damage from debris has been reported yet.

Alphabet Could Be the Quantum Computing Winner of 2026

December 27, 2025, 1:44 AM EST. Quantum computing stocks swung wildly in 2025, with two distinct boom-bust cycles. Two buckets separate investors: upstarts like IonQ, Rigetti, and D-Wave, which are high-risk bets on viable quantum tech; and legacy tech firms such as Alphabet, Microsoft, and IBM, which pursue quantum as a side business with solid cash flow. The piece argues most investors may be better off with the safer legacy group, and spots Alphabet as a standout pick. Upstarts could pay off if their technology matures around 2030, but many will fail. Alphabet offers in-house quantum capabilities, annual progress updates, and the safety of a diversified core business. Bottom line: for the next few years, lean toward Alphabet and other legacy players rather than speculative startups.

From Push to Pull: How a Small Notification Tweak Restored Focus

December 27, 2025, 1:42 AM EST. Adopting a pull relationship with technology, the author replaced the default push flow for most apps with intentional review moments. Before the tweak, constant pings from Slack, Gmail, Asana, news apps, and social feeds kept them from being present with what matters. The shift is simple: let only essential channels-phone and messaging-push, while everything else is checked on demand. Other apps, including smart-home alerts tied to motion sensors, can interrupt, but the goal is peace of mind and focused action. By choosing when to act rather than reacting to every notification, they can stay in the moment with family, work, and personal priorities.

Efficient Compilation Techniques for Neutral-Atom Quantum Circuits

December 27, 2025, 1:26 AM EST. New work by Gao, Li, Ying and collaborators advances efficient compilation for neutral-atom quantum computing by tailoring QFT circuits to practical hardware. The study analyzes how optimized gate sequences and minimized operation counts reduce overhead and error susceptibility, boosting fidelity on neutral-atom qubits manipulated by lasers. A key contribution is the development of dynamic adaptation methods for QFT circuits, enabling flexible representations that suit specific hardware constraints without sacrificing performance. The authors also explore integration with quantum error correction to improve fault tolerance, outlining pathways toward more scalable, robust quantum processors. The findings suggest a practical route to deploying high-performance QFT-based routines on near-term and future neutral-atom platforms.

Guilty Gear Strive Version 2.0: New Character, Rebalancing, and Fresh Moves Ahead of 2026

December 27, 2025, 12:38 AM EST. Guilty Gear Strive's Version 2.0 update is framed as a milestone that promises a refreshed experience rather than a simple patch. Producer Ken Miyauchi confirms the overhaul will introduce a new character at launch, with more fighters teased beyond that in the rollout. Arc System Works aims to rebalance the game to calm the current extremes, focusing on Wild Assault and other universal mechanics to restore a healthier, more accessible pace for newcomers while preserving depth for veterans. The team emphasizes potential reworks that may go beyond tuning, reviewing risk-reward dynamics and the narrowing of decision-making. Expect new moves as part of the Version 2.0 package, signaling a substantial evolution for Guilty Gear Strive in 2026.

Arc Raiders Goalie Raider Deck Rewards – All Items & Permanent Battle Pass

December 27, 2025, 12:06 AM EST. Arc Raiders' Cold Snap update introduces the Goalie Raider Deck, the game's second battle pass. The deck is free for all players and rewards cosmetics, gear, and Raider Tokens via daily Feats. Earn Creds (up to three Feats per match) and receive bonus Creds for the first five Feats each day, then spend them to unlock preferred items from the deck. Unlike many games, the Goalie Deck is a permanent reward track, so you can unlock content whenever you want and still must purchase a certain number of items to progress to new pages. It also adds a hockey-themed outfit and other seasonal content, plus ongoing events and the new Snowfall map condition.

{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”WebPage”,”name”:”Technology News 27.12.2025″,”url”:”https://www.kondorexp.co.il/technology-news-27-12-2025/”,”speakable”:{“@type”:”SpeakableSpecification”,”cssSelector”:[“.liveblog-header”,”h1.post-title”,”.single56__title”]}}

Nvidia seals its largest-ever deal, to acquire Groq assets for $20B in cash

December 27, 2025, 12:00 AM EST. Nvidia unveils its largest deal to date by agreeing to acquire Groq's assets for $20 billion in cash. Under the agreement, Groq founder Jonathan Ross and president Sunny Madra, along with other team members, will join Nvidia to help integrate the licensed Groq technology, while Groq will operate as an independent company with Simon Edwards as CEO and GroqCloud continuing without interruption. Nvidia plans to integrate Groq's low-latency processors into its AI factory architecture, expanding the platform for broader AI inference and real-time workloads. The move underscores Nvidia's push to scale AI hardware and software ecosystems, and represents the largest deal in Nvidia's history per CNBC.