Technology News 09.01.2026

SWOT captures high-resolution tsunami off Kamchatka, reshaping earthquake risk and forecasting

January 9, 2026, 8:18 PM EST. An orbiting NASA-CNES mission, SWOT, captured a high-resolution, two-dimensional view of a magnitude-8.8 tsunami off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula as warnings rippled across the Pacific on July 29, 2025. The dataset, published in The Seismic Record, combines SWOT's satellite altimetry with deep-ocean buoys to reshape how scientists reconstruct earthquake ruptures, assess tsunami hazards, and gauge recurrence of "great" earthquakes along major subduction zones. The 1952 Severo-Kurilsk event set a benchmark in tsunami science; yet the 2025 quake triggered warnings and evacuations across the Pacific, yet produced far less coastal destruction. Researchers say the variation stems from rupture style and ocean dynamics, underscoring the value of SWOT in post-event forecasting and source characterization.

VCI Global launches Kuala Lumpur AI GPU lounge offering Nvidia Blackwell GPUs by subscription

January 9, 2026, 8:16 PM EST. VCI Global (NASDAQ: VCIG) says its first Enterprise AI GPU Lounge in Kuala Lumpur is ready and will handle enterprise workloads by late January 2026. The co-working data center offers subscription-based access to NVIDIA Blackwell GPU compute via V Gallant's Intelli-X platform, with zero-data-retention architecture and data sovereignty features that keep data under local governance. The facility also serves as an IDEX Hub inside a green-certified building and is pitched as a capital-efficient alternative to upfront GPU CAPEX for regulated enterprises, multinationals and government entities, aligning with VCI Global's Physical AI roadmap for robotics and autonomous systems. Market reaction: VCIG shares fell about 4.9% intraday with heavy trading; last price around $0.91, though data shows variations due to delays.

AI a productive force but dangerous if unchecked, experts warn

January 9, 2026, 8:10 PM EST. Experts caution that AI remains a productive force in industry and biotech, but can become dangerous when driven by short-term profitability. They warn consumer bots are increasingly tested in real time on the population to harvest data and maximize engagement. With investors pressuring rapid returns, the incentive to optimize outcomes may override safety checks. Regulators are largely absent; even Europe's attempts to regulate are seen as insufficient to curb growth. Critics say there is no robust regulatory oversight, leaving platforms to launch features and later retreat. The debate centers on how to curb social and political harm while preserving innovation.

Microsoft expands Copilot with Checkout, enabling in-chat purchases

January 9, 2026, 8:06 PM EST. Microsoft is expanding Copilot's reach with Copilot Checkout, a feature letting users discuss products in chat and complete purchases without leaving the conversation. An AI agent navigates to the retailer and finalizes the transaction. The service debuts via Copilot.com with Etsy, PayPal, Shopify and Stripe as initial partners; retailers using PayPal or Stripe can apply, while Shopify sellers are automatically enrolled unless they opt out. The move mirrors OpenAI's Instant Checkout, underscoring Microsoft's push to embed Copilot across Windows, Edge, Bing and Microsoft 365. Critics warn of wallet access and privacy risks; Proton notes limited removal for non-enterprise users. Outside Windows, LG TV owners recently saw an unremovable Copilot shortcut after an update.

Apple reportedly bought OPPO Find N5 to study inner display for iPhone Fold, rumor says

January 9, 2026, 8:00 PM EST. Industry chatter claims Apple bought a Chinese competitor's foldable to study its crease-free inner display. The alleged move centers on the OPPO Find N5, praised for its slim 4.2mm unfolded profile and minimal crease, according to a Weibo tipster and Fixed-focus digital cameras. Apple is said to have disassembled the device and produced prototypes that could not match the Find N5's smoothness, fueling speculation about the iPhone Fold's design-including a possible side-mounted Touch ID and the absence of Face ID. The report notes Apple lags in foldables and Samsung remains an industry leader, with rumors of a passport-style exterior for a future model. As with all rumors, plans and sources remain unverified.

X's deepfake feature tests Apple, Google app-store rules; critics question leadership

January 9, 2026, 7:58 PM EST. Elizabeth Lopatto argues that X's Grok feature, which uses deepfake images to undress women and children, violates Apple's and Google's app-store guidelines. Apple bans content that is offensive or creepy; Google prohibits content that facilitates exploitation of children and can remove apps for violations. Lopatto contends the hesitation to pull X reflects political and business leverage tied to Elon Musk and the right-wing media ecosystem, rather than strict policy adherence. She notes Apple's China exposure and tariff dynamics and Google's ongoing AI policy debates and ties to Trump. Neither company commented. The column reframes the incident as a test of tech regulation and leadership, not a mere compliance question.

Apple reportedly studied Oppo Find N5 to inform iPhone Fold design

January 9, 2026, 7:52 PM EST. Apple is rumored to have purchased a Chinese rival's foldable phone to study its inner display and inform development of an iPhone Fold, according to a tipster cited by Fixed-focus digital cameras. The device named is the Oppo Find N5, praised for a 4.2mm unfolded thickness and a notably smooth crease. Proponents say Apple produced several prototypes but none matched the Find N5's inner-display smoothness. Rumors also claim the first iPhone Fold could omit Face ID in favor of a side-mounted Touch ID, due to a thinner frame, in a bid to avoid a visible crease. Some skepticism remains, and independent confirmation is lacking. Samsung rumors about a passport-style exterior add to the chatter.

NTIA approves $170 million BEAD plan to expand Nevada broadband

January 9, 2026, 7:50 PM EST. LAS VEGAS – Nevada won approval for more than $170 million in the broadband expansion program BEAD after the National Telecommunications and Information Administration gave a final green light. Gov. Joe Lombardo's office said the BEAD award is part of a $416 million state plan to expand high-speed internet to underserved areas, reaching more than 28,000 homes, businesses and community institutions with a mix of fiber, hybrid fiber-coax, fixed wireless and satellite connections. The approval unlocks the initial tranche; another $65 million will come from private investment, and $150 million from the American Rescue Plan Act and the Capital Projects Fund. Nevada has earmarked $275 million for middle-mile projects, and about $200 million will remain for future BEAD use as federal guidance is awaited.

Federal approval unlocks $170 million for Nevada broadband expansion

January 9, 2026, 7:36 PM EST. LAS VEGAS – The National Telecommunications and Information Administration approved Nevada's final BEAD proposal, unlocking more than $170 million of the state's $416 million BEAD allotment. The plan targets high-speed internet for more than 28,000 homes, businesses and community institutions in underserved areas, using fiber, hybrid fiber-coax, fixed wireless and satellite. Deployment could begin later this year, supported by $65 million in private investment and $150 million from ARPA and the Capital Projects Fund. Nevada has also earmarked $275 million for middle-mile projects and holds about $200 million in remaining BEAD funds, though officials await federal guidance on their use. Governor Joe Lombardo said the agreement fulfills a pledge to connect Nevadan households to reliable broadband.

Google cautions against bite-sized content to game LLMs, Sullivan says

January 9, 2026, 7:34 PM EST. Google's Danny Sullivan said on the 'Search Off the Record' podcast that publishers should not shape content into bite-sized chunks to game LLMs. He stressed that Google does not want content crafted for LLMs, even if engineers encounter marginal gains in certain setups. For Google Search, such tactics likely won't pay off in the long run, and they may not translate to other LLMs either. The advice: write for human readers first; when ranking systems catch up, content that serves users will align with what LLMs prefer. The message echoes past SEO guidance and extends to AEO/GEO discussions. Sullivan cautioned against creating multiple versions of content for different audiences.

Utah families sue Tesla over Autopilot claims after fatal Idaho crash

January 9, 2026, 7:32 PM EST. Two Utah families are suing Tesla, alleging its Model X's driver-assistance systems failed after a September 1, 2023, crash in Idaho that killed four relatives. Jennifer Blaine, 46; her daughters Emily Blaine Leavitt, 22, and Denali Blaine, 11, and Emily's husband Zachary Leavitt, 24, were killed when the Model X collided with a semi-truck on Idaho State Highway 33, near Driggs, after a stop in Idaho Falls. The 27-page complaint, reviewed by PEOPLE, says Tesla marketed Autopilot and its Autosteer feature as keeping the vehicle in its lane, and that the couple paid extra for Full Self Driving. The families allege Tesla misrepresented the safety and autonomy of its ADAS technology and seek damages in Utah District Court.

Best New Smart Glasses Arriving in 2026

January 9, 2026, 7:30 PM EST. Steven Sullivan outlines how the 2026 smart glasses wave blends AR, AI and ecosystem ties into everyday use. The Android XR Glasses (Project Aura) lead with a 70° field of view, full hand tracking and Gemini AI for multitasking and contextual help. A wired option offers standalone power while preserving Android integration, with multi-screen support and app compatibility. Wireless models promise real-time translation, live navigation and audio-driven interactions across ecosystems. Players like Snapchat Spectacles, Apple rumors, Amazon devices and Rokid stress social features, professional use cases and cross-platform compatibility. The thrust is AI copilots, immersive AR experiences, ergonomic design and seamless syncing with Android, iOS and Amazon ecosystems.

Clicks' Communicator prototype brings BlackBerry-style keyboard to CES

January 9, 2026, 7:24 PM EST. At CES, Clicks Technology unveiled the Communicator, a BlackBerry-style smartphone priced at $499, with a separate $79 slide-out keyboard. TechCrunch reported hands-on impressions of a prototype that matches the eventual shipping model in size and weight. The device runs Android 16, enabling all apps, and uses Niagara Launcher for home-screen app layout. Storage runs 256GB with expandable microSD up to 2TB. A 4000mAh silicon-carbon battery drives the phone, which weighs about 170 grams and uses a nano-SIM slot. Interchangeable back covers offer customization; a notch and finger pull aid removal. A feature called Signal Light can glow for messages from priority contacts. The prototype is not fully functional yet, but early testers peg the keyboard as potentially definitive, with debate over key-press force.

Pixel 9 series poised for AirDrop-style Quick Share, signals found in Android Canary

January 9, 2026, 7:18 PM EST. Google began offering AirDrop-style sharing through Quick Share as a Pixel 10 exclusive. In the latest Android Canary builds, Android Authority reports the same system files that enable AirDrop on Pixel 10 have appeared on Pixel 9 devices-specifically Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL and 9 Pro Fold. The Pixel 9a and older Pixels remain excluded for now. The files surfaced in Canary build ZP11.251212.007, but the AirDrop function is not active yet on Pixel 9. The finding suggests Google is moving toward broader AirDrop support, though a timing window remains uncertain.

CES Worst in Show flags AI fridges, companions and doorbells

January 9, 2026, 7:12 PM EST. Consumer and privacy advocates named CES's Worst in Show for invasive, wasteful or fragile tech. The lineup included an eye-tracking AI soulmate for loneliness, a musical lollipop and new AI features for Amazon Ring doorbells. Samsung's Bespoke AI Family Hub fridge won the overall Worst in Show. Critics said the fridge struggled to recognize commands amid noise and mounting privacy and reliability concerns, noting its computer vision can track inventory and push replacements. Samsung defended the on-site demonstration, saying trade show floors differ from homes and that security and privacy are foundational. Judges from Consumer Reports, the Electronic Frontier Foundation and iFixit say the awards aim to spur better design, not shame, highlighting trends across the industry. Ring doorbells also drew privacy alarms for doubling down on data collection.

Pixel 9 series could gain AirDrop-style Quick Share for iPhone, per Canary build

January 9, 2026, 7:10 PM EST. Google's Android Canary testing for the Pixel 9 series hints at an AirDrop-style extension of Quick Share to iPhones. Canary builds are early developer previews; the latest Pixel 9 release includes system files needed to transfer files between Android and iPhone, suggesting Google is moving toward broad interoperability. The Pixel 9a and older Pixel 8 builds reportedly lack these files, indicating testing hasn't begun on those devices. Google previously said Quick Share would work with Apple devices over time. A rollout could arrive with the Android 16 QPR3 release or in a future stable update. If confirmed, the feature would widen cross-platform file sharing beyond the Pixel 10 series.

Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, Gen 6 Could Use TSMC 2nm N2P; Samsung Talks on the Table

January 9, 2026, 7:08 PM EST. The piece centers on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro and Gen 6 potentially being built on TSMC's 2nm N2P process, with no firm talks with Samsung yet. Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station says Qualcomm remains loyal to TSMC for now, even as Samsung allegedly supplied samples for evaluation and could win mass production on a future 2nm GAA node. The report ties Samsung's Exynos 2600 progress to broader 2nm yields and hints at a dual-sourcing strategy to cut costs. At issue: a roughly $280 unit price for Gen 5 and the premium positioning of Gen 6 Pro. The story emphasizes uncertainty, citing timing and the lack of confirmed agreements.

Rigetti updates Cepheus-1-108Q roadmap, targets end-Q1 2026 GA

January 9, 2026, 7:06 PM EST. Rigetti Computing said it is revising its roadmap and delaying the general availability of Cepheus-1-108Q to around the end of Q1 2026. The company cited additional testing to reach 99.5% median two-qubit gate fidelity and to resolve complexities with tunable couplers after identifying issues in the chip iteration. Cepheus-1-108Q, based on twelve 9-qubit chiplets, would be Rigetti's highest-qubit system and the industry's largest modular quantum computer to date. Rigetti has reported 99% median two-qubit fidelity on the 108-qubit system, 99.7% on 9-qubit, and 99.6% on 36-qubit systems. CEO Dr. Subodh Kulkarni said the delay ensures the system meets performance standards. The update underscores ongoing challenges in scaling qubit count within a modular architecture.

FPGA-based probabilistic computing accelerates neural quantum-state sampling

January 9, 2026, 7:04 PM EST. Researchers demonstrate a probabilistic computer built on field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) to sample neural quantum states. The team, including Shuvro Chowdhury, Jasper Pieterse and Navid Anjum Aadit, with collaborators at UC Santa Barbara and Radboud University, integrate sparse Deep Boltzmann Machines on FPGA accelerators to speed Monte Carlo sampling of energy-based quantum states. They compute ground-state energies for the two-dimensional transverse-field Ising model at criticality on lattices up to 80×80 (6400 spins) using a multi-FPGA cluster. The method uses a dual sampling algorithm with outer-loop visible configurations and inner-loop auxiliary units, plus a locality constraint (k) to keep connectivity sparse. Parallel FPGA updates yield sampling times independent of the number of stochastic units for fixed budgets.

From Rollable Screens to Repairable Powerhouses: The 8 Laptops That Stole CES 2026

January 9, 2026, 6:58 PM EST. CES 2026 delivered a wave of AI PC laptops as makers rolled out new processors and smarter chips. The show highlighted rollable screens and other bold form factors, alongside a focus on repairability and serviceability in premium machines. Journalists spent time with dozens of devices in Las Vegas and judged the eight standout laptops across eight categories. The takeaway: a shift toward smarter AI features, stronger performance, and longer-lasting components, with trade-offs in price, heat and battery life. This roundup distills genuine innovation from flashy demos, noting which models most credibly combine practical repairability with cutting-edge performance.

Why tech launches stopped feeling magical

January 9, 2026, 6:54 PM EST. From the first iPhone reveal on January 9, 2007 at 9:41 AM PST, tech hype felt inevitable. The crowd cheered at multi-touch as a window to a Star Trek-like future. Visionaries such as Roddenberry promised post-scarcity progress; in contrast, Philip K. Dick warned technology could amplify surveillance and excess. The piece asks how we moved from utopian optimism to a present where new tech is judged by potential harm. It argues excitement comes from solving intimate, practical problems-maps, instant photo sharing, commuting-while products that miss the mark fade, like Juicero. The spark endures when tech clearly improves everyday life, not only grand promises.

Mizuho names Nvidia, Broadcom and Lumentum as top AI chip picks for 2026

January 9, 2026, 6:52 PM EST. Mizuho Securities names Nvidia, Broadcom and Lumentum as its top AI chip picks for 2026, citing strength in AI accelerators, optical networking and advanced chips. Nvidia should benefit from ongoing GPU and custom AI chip sales; Broadcom from a diversified portfolio; Lumentum from faster AI networking speeds such as 800G and 1.6T. The firm also flags Microchip Technology and Lam Research as names to watch. Demand for wafer-fab equipment and memory is seen staying robust for Micron and SanDisk as AI data centers expand. Caution is urged on autos, analog chips, PCs and smartphones amid weaker demand and higher inventories. Still, valuations look attractive versus the broader market, with AI-focused segments likely to lead in 2026.

The 5 Best Post-CES Weekend Tech Deals on Headphones, Tablets, and Tax Software

January 9, 2026, 6:48 PM EST. Post-CES weekend deals are in full swing, with fresh discounts across audio gear, tablets, and tax software. This roundup highlights five deals on headphones, tablets, and tax software, plus notable cuts on the new Apple Watch and a leading Samsung tablet. Retailers tout slashed prices as CES momentum wanes, offering shoppers a chance to upgrade devices and productivity tools before the work week. The coverage keeps to observable savings, flags any limited quantities, and notes terms where applicable. Readers should compare prices, verify terms at checkout, and act quickly to lock in discounts that may expire.

AI intensifies online trust crisis, experts warn

January 9, 2026, 6:46 PM EST. AI-generated images and videos have accelerated a trust crisis online, researchers say. In early 2026, fabricated media around events such as Donald Trump's Venezuela operation and an ICE shooting circulated widely, often blending real footage with AI edits. Platforms that reward engagement incentivize remixing old media, amplifying misinformation. Jeff Hancock of Stanford warns the public's default to trust could erode, meaning people doubt even authentic digital evidence for a time. The shift echoes past tech tectonics-from Photoshop to the printing press-yet AI accelerates the pace. Deepfakes have surfaced in courtrooms and on social feeds, and political content now travels with AI-generated context. The challenge is restoring verification signals fast enough to rebuild confidence.

Fitbit Sense 2 goes on 20% discount as Quitter's Day nudges New Year goals

January 9, 2026, 6:42 PM EST. Jan 9, National Quitter's Day, highlights how many people abandon New Year's goals. About 75% set resolutions, 48% meet them. Wearables help. The Fitbit Sense 2 is a top-rated smartwatch on Amazon and is now 20% off, offering a $50 savings. Reviewers praise its user-friendly interface and seamless app syncing. The device tracks heart rate, sleep and activity through moment tracking, and includes built-in Alexa to set timers or control smart home devices. It also provides daily readiness scores and stress management scores to guide routines. The deal is time-limited, so buyers should act quickly.

China's Insta360 pushes into US drone market as DJI faces tighter curbs

January 9, 2026, 6:40 PM EST. LAS VEGAS – At CES 2026, Insta360, the world leader in 360-degree cameras, signaled a bigger push into the US drone market despite ongoing compliance headwinds. The company aims to monetize its A1 drone, which embeds a 360-degree camera for immersive footage, as DJI remains barred from selling new models in the United States. Insta360's co-founders say they "want to be here," acknowledging regulatory hurdles but stressing a commitment to a local footprint. The move highlights Chinese tech firms expanding beyond consumer devices into regulated airspace, testing how approvals, supplier chains, and competition will shape U.S. drone dynamics.

Leak suggests Samsung's Privacy Display may reach Galaxy S26 Plus, not just Ultra

January 9, 2026, 6:38 PM EST. Leaked details suggest Samsung's Privacy Display feature may not be limited to the Galaxy S26 Ultra. A new leak shows a Privacy Display card in the Tips app on a device spoofed as a Galaxy S26 Plus, reproducing the same animations and text as a spoof of the Ultra. The finding, reported by Android Authority and verified by SammyGuru, relies on early internal software and a spoofing module. Samsung's internal software could still change; there is no guarantee the feature will appear on the Plus model. Previous leaks had teased exclusivity to the Ultra, but the evidence so far is inconclusive.

Two AI growth stocks to buy now: Amazon and Microsoft

January 9, 2026, 6:36 PM EST. Two of the market's biggest names offer a practical path to AI exposure: Amazon and Microsoft. The argument: AI is a broad capability layered into existing tools, not a stand-alone product. Amazon's AI push spans the company, with AWS as the main profit engine. In Q3, total revenue rose 13% to $180.2 billion, while AWS grew 20.2% to $33.0 billion and accounted for about 66% of operating income. Operating cash flow rose 16% to $130.7 billion, but free cash flow slipped to $14.8 billion as capex surged for data centers. Microsoft's edge lies in the cloud, with Azure fueling AI features across widely used products like Office and Teams. Both aim to monetize AI through infrastructure and productivity software, offering long-haul upside beyond a single product.

Android Auto 16.0 rollout underway as bug breaks message replies for Google Workspace users

January 9, 2026, 6:28 PM EST. Google has begun rolling out Android Auto 16.0, but the update carries a bug that breaks message replies for some users. The issue appears to affect those using Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) accounts as their primary, not personal Gmail accounts. Tapping the Reply button in a notification returns an error indicating permission from a Google Workspace administrator is required. The bug seems to be server-side rather than app-level, and reports date back to December. Google has acknowledged the problem but has not provided a fix or timeline. Meanwhile, Android Auto 16.0 itself adds no notable user-facing changes; current widely available version remains 15.9, with a stable rollout expected in coming weeks.

Tesla loses title as world's top EV maker as BYD outsells it

January 9, 2026, 6:24 PM EST. Tesla ceded its status as the world's top EV maker after reporting a 9% drop in 2025 deliveries to 1.64 million vehicles. BYD eclipsed it with 2.26 million sales, ending Tesla's run at the top of the electric segment. The decline comes as overseas competition intensifies and buyers face the expiration of a $7,500 U.S. EV tax credit, which sharply curbed demand. For the fourth quarter, Tesla delivered 418,227 vehicles, short of the 440,000 target that analysts polled by FactSet had expected. Management cited weakened demand and headwinds from political and policy factors, including the fading incentive. The shift underlines a turning point for a company that helped spark the modern EV era and now confronts a tougher, more varied global market.

Israeli official probes Starlink use in Iran as Musk weighs in, sources say

January 9, 2026, 6:20 PM EST. Deputy Minister Almog Cohen pressed Israeli venture capitalist Dovi Frances this week to learn whether Starlink is operating inside Iran amid a major digital blackout during nationwide protests. Frances would not confirm any discussion with Elon Musk; Cohen did not respond to comment requests. Frances confirmed receipt of the inquiry but gave no details about talks or actions, and there is no public evidence Israel facilitated Starlink service in Iran during the blackout. NetBlocks and other monitors reported sharp connectivity losses in Tehran and beyond. Starlink-SpaceX's satellite service-can bypass some government controls but typically relies on ground terminals, which Iran warns against and polices. Activists urged Musk to help restore access; past statements suggest some activation occurred during earlier disruptions.

Israeli official probes Starlink use in Iran as Musk weighs in

January 9, 2026, 6:18 PM EST. Deputy Minister Almog Cohen asked venture capitalist Dovi Frances whether Starlink was operating in Iran during a widescale internet blackout. Frances would not confirm any talk with Elon Musk or any steps taken. There is no public indication Israel facilitated Starlink inside Iran. Iran has restricted online access amid protests, with NetBlocks and others noting a sharp connectivity collapse. Starlink can provide less throttled connectivity but often needs ground terminals; Iran has warned against installing such equipment. Frances said he received the inquiry but would not discuss conversations with Musk. Activists and media pressed Musk to restore access; past reporting linked Starlink to Iran's previous outages.

Nothing Ear (a) earbuds hit $59 in lowest price to date

January 9, 2026, 5:52 PM EST. Nothing Ear (a) earbuds have dropped to $59 in a limited-time sale on Amazon and Nothing's store, marking their lowest price to date. The compact, translucent case and bright yellow finish accompany a feature set that includes active noise cancellation (ANC), multipoint Bluetooth pairing, and a companion app for sound tuning. Battery life runs roughly eight hours with ANC off (about 5.5 hours with ANC on), and IP54 dust and water resistance covers sweat and light rain. Three sizes of silicone tips help fit, and a low-latency gaming mode targets mobile play. The deal arrives as Nothing's broader headphone line also goes on sale; industry watchers note the value proposition makes the Ear (a) a go-to option for budget shoppers.

Nothing Ear (1) earbuds drop to $59 in new sale

January 9, 2026, 5:50 PM EST. Nothing's Ear (1) wireless earbuds return to $59 in a new sale, the lowest price to date outside Black Friday. The Verge notes this budget option blends style with a capable feature set: ANC, multipoint Bluetooth pairing, and a compact, translucent charging case. Battery life runs over eight hours with ANC off (about 5.5 hours with ANC on); IP54 dust and water resistance covers sweat and light rain. The package includes three silicone ear-tip sizes for a better fit, and the earbuds offer a low-latency gaming mode. The deal appears on Amazon and Nothing's store, marking a rare price cut for a product that has become a go-to for budget buyers.

Five smartphones more powerful than the iPhone, according to reviews

January 9, 2026, 5:48 PM EST. The piece surveys smartphones that outpace the iPhone 17 Pro Max on raw power. Apple's top model runs the A19 Pro with a 6-core CPU, a GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine, plus hardware ray tracing for console-like games. Yet reviewers note several Android rivals surpass Apple's horsepower. The highlighted device so far is the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, with the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC and up to 16GB RAM, priced from $1,299. The article concedes the iPhone remains strong in real-world use, but argues that, on benchmark-like tests, Android flagships can be faster in some tasks. Five devices in total are examined, with a methodology note at the end.

Best smartwatch deal: 50% off Google Pixel Watch 4 LTE

January 9, 2026, 5:42 PM EST. Deal snapshot: As of Jan. 9, the Google Pixel Watch 4 LTE is $399.99, down from its $499.99 list price – a 50% reduction and among the lowest prices seen. The offer is tied to Amazon, with Mashable noting the deal's availability may change after publication. The Pixel Watch 4 LTE suits Android users looking for LTE connectivity and a smartwatch experience integrated with Google services. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication.

Lego launches Smart Play with three Star Wars sets available for preorder

January 9, 2026, 5:40 PM EST. Lego is rolling out its Smart Play system with three Star Wars sets available for preorder, shipping on March 1, 2026. The lineup: Darth Vader's TIE Fighter at $69.99 (473 pieces), Luke's Red Five X-Wing at $89.99 (581 pieces), and Throne Room Duel & A-Wing at $159.99 (962 pieces). Each includes a Smart Brick, Smart Tags, and a wireless charger that can power two bricks. The Brick acts as a tiny computer, delivering interactive lighting and sounds via NFC-tagged figures, with features updated through a mobile app. Reactions are mixed: some fans welcome new play possibilities, others worry about imagination versus electronics. The Verge's Sean Hollister demo at CES 2026 found the system surprisingly capable.

Google Pixel Watch 4 LTE discounted 50% to $399.99 in latest deal

January 9, 2026, 5:38 PM EST. As of Jan. 9, the Google Pixel Watch 4 LTE is available at $399.99, down from $499.99-a 50% discount and the lowest price seen to date. The deal applies to the model with LTE connectivity, marketed as a strong companion for Android users. Deal pricing and availability can change after publication. Mashable notes an affiliate relationship on links, which may earn commissions.

One UI 8.5 could deliver major Bixby AI upgrade with Perplexity and Gemini-like features

January 9, 2026, 5:30 PM EST. Leaked screenshots, reportedly captured from One UI 8.5 firmware on a rooted device, show an upgraded Bixby with Gemini Live-like capabilities and Perplexity internet integration. The UI would link to third-party services such as The Weather Channel, HERE Maps, Skyscanner and Uber, and allow quick actions like toggling Bluetooth or Dark Mode, plus uploading documents or images for discussion. A new podcast-style conversation could see Bixby discuss uploaded documents, similar to Google's Gemini approach. Samsung may also feature an in-house tool called Circle To Ask, and a component named Bixby Live appears in the leaked images. The company has not confirmed specifics about timing.

Starlink activates in Iran to bypass internet blackout amid protests

January 9, 2026, 5:22 PM EST. WASHINGTON – SpaceX activated Starlink satellite internet in Iran amid a nationwide blackout during protests, according to online reports. Iranians with smuggled terminals can access uncensored service, with free access for a limited period, similar to prior activations. The demonstrations, which began in Tehran's Grand Bazaar, have spread to all 31 provinces but have not reached the scale of 2022-23 unrest over Mahsa Amini. Internet traffic fell to near zero for days as authorities disrupted lines and media. Israeli Channel 14 cited Musk as granting free access to protesters. Iran has protested to international bodies like the ITU and employs jamming tech, but low-Earth-orbit satellites complicate full suppression. Musk has enabled service without supplying hardware, under sanctions constraints, to support connectivity during crises.

Three essential Android smartwatch apps to install first: Spotify, Strava, Google Keep

January 9, 2026, 5:20 PM EST. When you unbox an Android smartwatch, start with three apps that cover core tasks: music control, fitness tracking and note-taking. Spotify lets you manage playback from your wrist, browse playlists, and, with LTE and Premium, download content for offline listening. Strava uses the watch GPS for runs, rides and hikes, showing pace, distance and heart rate, with glove-friendly controls and auto-pause; it syncs to the mobile app for full stats. Google Keep enables voice notes, reminders and lists, integrated with watch tiles for quick access. These three form a practical foundation before branching into more specialized tools.

Is the AI Bubble Bursting or Is the Sector Catching Its Breath?

January 9, 2026, 5:16 PM EST. December weakness in many AI stocks sparked talk of a bubble bursting, but January brought a rally that challenges that view. The case for a bubble rests on headlines about data center financing and timelines; the case for breath lies in real earnings. Unlike the dot-com era, today's rally is led by cash-generating giants such as Nvidia, Alphabet, Amazon, and Microsoft, whose AI-enabled models boost revenue and profits. Big tech is also committing more capital to AI in 2026, a trend Goldman Sachs says may exceed current forecasts as analysts understate spending. Long-term potential remains intact as tools like ChatGPT and Grok hint at broader adoption. Smaller AI names could outperform on fundamentals during rallies, while chipmakers stand to benefit.

Tesla's Cybercab name blocked by UniBev trademark, Robotaxi fallback fizzled

January 9, 2026, 5:08 PM EST. Tesla's long-planned autonomous ride-hailing car has failed to secure its preferred brand. After an earlier rejection of the name Robotaxi for being descriptive, the company appears blocked again. The trademark for Cybercab has been awarded to a French drinks group, UniBev, which filed before Tesla and had the registration approved and published in the US. Tesla's branding timeline shows Musk revealed the project on Oct. 11, 2024; the company did not file for the mark until Oct. 17, 2024, by which time UniBev had already registered April 29, 2024 with the French INPI and expanded it to cover vehicles in the US. The name crisis leaves room for alternatives-Tesla has teased options like Cybervan. In short, the company must find a new identity for its self-driving vehicle.

Nimble's Champ Stack 10K power bank splits into two 5K units at CES 2026

January 9, 2026, 5:00 PM EST. At CES 2026, Nimble unveiled the Champ Stack 10K power bank, designed for shared charging. The unit can be broken into two separate 5,000 mAh modules, letting two people charge independently without swapping cables. One half has the built-in USB-C cable; the other has a fold-out USB-C connector. When used as a single unit, the maximum output is 30W; split, each half delivers up to 20W. Wired noted the reduced peak power when separated, while CNN pegged the price at about $80 with a spring 2026 launch. The charger targets travelers who juggle multiple phones, offering a modular twist on a common accessory. (mAh explained: milliampere-hours measure stored energy).

ArtQuest VR adds true-scale galleries, narration and nav options to virtual museums

January 9, 2026, 4:58 PM EST. In a hands-on look, ArtQuest VR offers true-scale galleries drawn from collections around the world. Users can browse by artist, movement or preset collections, with a contemporary Keith Haring gallery among the options. The app lets you customize the space-wall, floor and frame colors, frame thickness-and even change the lighting to suit the viewing. A five-voice text-to-speech narration provides painting descriptions. Movement is split between smooth joystick travel and right-joystick blink teleport, plus snap turning and a height recalibration so paintings sit at eye level. The reviewer engages with Kandinsky's 'Picture With A Black Arch,' noting brushwork and rhythm that reads like musical counterpoint. Ultimately, virtual museums hinge on architecture, ambience and thoughtful immersive design.

Iran faces internet blackout as protests intensify

January 9, 2026, 4:46 PM EST. Rights groups and activists report a widespread internet blackout across Iran as authorities attempt to contain nationwide protests. Independent monitors say mobile and fixed networks were disrupted or slowed, hindering communication and online organizing. State outlets gave little detail; officials have not publicly acknowledged a blanket shutdown, but outages were recorded in Tehran, Mashhad and other cities. The disruption complicates reporting and daily life for civilians, businesses and foreign journalists. Analysts say the move mirrors prior efforts to curb dissent by throttling the digital infrastructure. Tehran frames the actions as preserving security and order. The episode highlights how control of network access can influence political dynamics, drawing scrutiny from rights groups and foreign observers.

US lawmaker accuses Tesla design; Volvo teases EX60 as solar tax credit revived

January 9, 2026, 4:44 PM EST. On a Quick Charge episode, a US Congressman accuses Tesla design flaws of causing at least 15 deaths, while Elon Musk says the company remains far from genuine Full Self Driving capability. Volvo teased its upcoming SPA3 EX60, promising about 400 miles of range. The discussion also probes Tesla's shifting targets for Full Self Driving and the new life for the 30% home solar tax credit as Germany pursues a new clean-energy benchmark despite geographic headwinds. The show notes audio availability on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other platforms, and plugs EnergySage for solar quotes. It blends policy, software timelines and energy policy in a brisk, time-sensitive format.

UK regulators push action on X over Grok AI deepfake editing; Ofcom to decide in days

January 9, 2026, 4:42 PM EST. UK regulators press action on X after Grok AI produced sexualised deepfakes. The government says Ofcom should decide in days, not weeks, whether to block X under the Online Safety Act if the platform does not comply. Downing Street criticized the change as insulting to victims; a domestic abuse charity called it monetising abuse. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said Ofcom will use its full powers and expects an expedited assessment. X says Grok can still edit images via other parts of the platform or through its standalone app. Critics warn the move does not undo harm, while opponents urge tighter access restrictions in the UK. The debate spotlights how platforms handle abusive tools and regulatory risk for X.

Prominent leaker pins 2027 launch window for Nvidia RTX 6000 series Rubin

January 9, 2026, 4:38 PM EST. Prominent leaker Kopite7kimi says Nvidia's RTX 6000 series, codenamed Rubin, will land in the second half of 2027, with announcements possible in Q4 2026 or at CES 2027. The lineup is tied to the GR20x GPU family, with Rubin CPX reportedly based on a GR212 chip not intended for GeForce gaming. Nvidia previously focused on DLSS 4.5 and AI gaming at CES 2026, delaying RTX 6000 reveals. Rumors also touch on a potential postponement of the RTX 50 Super amid market pressures, and reports that Nvidia and AMD may revisit older GPU generations to curb costs. The piece cites Wcctech and a PC-Welt translation of German-origin reporting.

NanoPhone: Pocket-sized 4G smartphone on sale for $85

January 9, 2026, 4:32 PM EST. NanoPhone, pitched as a credit-card-sized 4G smartphone, is on sale for about $85. The device offers dual SIM support and can run popular apps including WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube. In a landscape of larger devices, it emphasizes portability and basic connectivity over premium specs, serving as a compact secondary handset or travel companion.

Xbox Developer Direct rumor: secret fourth game corrected to first-party indie title; Fable PS5 chatter continues

January 9, 2026, 4:30 PM EST. Update: Video Games Chronicle corrected its report, saying the supposed secret fourth game for the Xbox Developer Direct is actually a smaller original title from a first-party studio, not a third-party project. Earlier coverage cited Shinobi602 and a corroborating source that described the game as a promising indie from a third-party publisher. VGC now acknowledges the mix-up. The original story linked the rumor to the January 22 show, with whispers of Fable in development for PS5 and potential one-year exclusivity for Avowed. Microsoft has not confirmed any fourth title. The situation shows how rumors spread before big showcases and how corrections follow factual checks. We will monitor official announcements for clarity.

Galaxy Brain: Grok on X, nonconsensual images, and a push for humane computing

January 9, 2026, 4:22 PM EST. On Galaxy Brain, Charlie Warzel highlights how Elon Musk's X platform is being used to generate nonconsensual sexualized images via its AI chatbot Grok, describing a mass-undressing spree that shows a breakdown in content moderation and basic decency. The episode ties this to an industry trend of engagement-maximizing design and the platform's distribution machinery. In the second segment, Mike Masnick, Alex Komoroske, and Zoe Weinberg discuss the Resonant Computing Manifesto, a framework for building technology that leaves people feeling nourished rather than hollow. They call to design digital spaces that respect agency and privacy, and urge action beyond defending against worst futures.

Pixel 10 and Pixel 9 flagships sluggish after Play system update

January 9, 2026, 4:20 PM EST. Reports from 9to5Google indicate that Google's Pixel 10 and Pixel 9 are slow to respond after a behind-the-scenes Play system update. Observations include a sluggish Pixel Launcher that sometimes fails to fully load, screens stuck on wallpaper, and a missing status bar post-update. Tests on a Pixel 10 Pro showed delays during reboot and a prolonged black screen. The December patch also caused serious AOD flicker on the Pixel 10, along with app crashes for several users. Google issued an emergency update mid-December to address battery drain and touch issues, but it remains unclear how widespread the faults are. The issues appear tied to the update timing and the under-the-hood patch.

Nintendo faces AI-image scrutiny over 'My Mario' marketing campaign

January 9, 2026, 4:16 PM EST. Nintendo's West-bound rollout of the 'My Mario' collection sparked online questions after fans accused promo images of showing impossible fingers. Critics pointed to a bent thumb and odd finger lengths in one shot. Some defenders argued such quirks can occur in real hands. The company ran four campaign images through AI-detection tools (NoteGBT, Decopy, ZeroGBT), with mixed results: the 'weird thumb' image flagged by some detectors, while others showed low AI likelihood or high editing probability. Marketing teams say post-shoot editing with tools like Photoshop is standard; the odd digits may reflect edits rather than AI creation. Nintendo of America has not yet commented. The debate mirrors broader concerns about AI in advertising and detector reliability.

Larian bans gen-AI for Divinity concept art after backlash

January 9, 2026, 4:14 PM EST. Larian founder Swen Vincke said in a Reddit AMA that there will be no gen-AI art in Divinity concept art, ending ambiguity after a December interview and fan backlash. The studio will refrain from using gen-AI tools during concept-art development so the origin of images cannot be questioned. Vincke said the decision aims to eliminate doubt, though gen-AI exploration may continue in other departments to speed iteration. He stressed that if gen-AI creates in-game assets, training data must be owned and origins clear, with consent from data-creators. Lead writer Adam Smith added the stance also applies to writing in Divinity. The game was announced at The Game Awards 2025 as a new, standalone entry with a fresh turn-based system.

Micron at AI memory crossroads as RAM, DRAM demand climbs and stock looks cheap

January 9, 2026, 4:12 PM EST. Micron designs and manufactures memory hardware for data-center servers. AI workloads require rapid data access, stored in RAM, DRAM, and high-bandwidth memory (HBM). TrendForce reports RAM demand outpacing supply by about 10%, with DRAM prices up around 50% year over year and projected to climb another 40% this quarter. In its fiscal first quarter 2026, Micron posted revenue of $13.6 billion, up 56% year over year, and net income of $5.2 billion, up 178%. Operating cash flow reached $8.41 billion; four-quarter net income margin stood at 28.2%, and cash reserves were $9.7 billion. The stock, MU, trades near $339.70 with a roughly $368 billion market cap. Some investors view Micron as a bargain given AI infrastructure demand and its HBM and DRAM/RAM product portfolio.

Huawei cuts prices on Mate 70 lineup for New Year 2026

January 9, 2026, 4:08 PM EST. Huawei kicked off a New Year price cut across its Mate 70 lineup, with discounts of up to 1800 yuan for a limited period. The four-model promo covers the vanilla Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, Mate 70 Pro Premium Edition and Mate 70 Pro+. Huawei cites the promotion as part of the New Year 2026 celebration, noting savings vary by configuration. Examples include the Mate 70 Pro Plus 16GB+512GB at 6699 yuan (down from 8499) and 16GB+1TB at 7699 yuan (from 9499). Premium Edition and Pro variants see reductions across 12GB configurations, while even the Standard Mate 70 with 12GB+256GB is priced at 5099 yuan. The offer runs on Huawei Mall, with color and storage options available while stocks last.

Clicks reveals Power Keyboard and Communicator at CES 2026

January 9, 2026, 4:04 PM EST. Clicks, the gadget company behind a tactile iPhone keyboard case, used CES 2026 to unveil a magnetic Power Keyboard that doubles as a sliding battery bank and a new, compact device branded as the Communicator. The Power Keyboard attaches to any Qi2 phone over Bluetooth and slides open from the back to reveal a full keyboard, with a dedicated number row. It can also charge the phone, or be set to power only the keyboard, letting the keyboard run for weeks between charges. The author interviewed co-founder and former BlackBerry marketing director Jeff Gadway about how the products fit into a smartphone world that mostly favors touchscreens. The Communicator remains pre-production, with no working prototype shown to press, but promises a new form factor that could appeal to keyboard enthusiasts and power users.

FCC ban on foreign-made drones could reshape US drone market

January 9, 2026, 3:58 PM EST. The FCC has barred new sales of foreign-made drones in a move tied to national security. Under a 22 December 2025 deadline, the agency added unmanned aircraft systems and critical components produced abroad to its Covered List, barring their authorization, marketing, or sale in the United States. Regulators say the step addresses espionage and data-sharing risks, notably given DJI's prominence in the global market as of 2024. The policy aims to safeguard Americans and airspace sovereignty ahead of major events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, America250 celebrations, and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Industry observers warn of upended procurement for law enforcement, emergency responders, and private users as suppliers adapt to a tightened foreign-sourced supply chain.

Smartlet One now available online as hybrid analog-Apple Watch wristband

January 9, 2026, 3:52 PM EST. The Smartlet One is now available directly from the manufacturer. Pricing ranges from $416 to $713, including taxes, fees and free shipping, depending on color and finish. The wristband fits standard 18 mm to 24 mm watch bands and offers compatibility with Apple Watch, Whoop 5.0, Samsung Galaxy Watch, Google Pixel Watch, several Garmin models, and Fitbit Charge 5 and 6. Buyers must specify the target watch model during checkout.

Smartlet One combines Apple Watch and analog watch on one wristband

January 9, 2026, 3:50 PM EST. Smartlet said the Smartlet One is now available in its online shop. The wristband retails for $416 to $713, depending on color and finish, with taxes, fees and free shipping included. It fits standard 18 mm to 24 mm bands and is compatible with Apple Watch, Whoop 5.0, Samsung Galaxy Watch, Google Pixel Watch, several Garmin models, and Fitbit Charge 5 and 6. Shoppers must specify the target watch model during the ordering process. The device claims to merge Apple Watch functionality with an analog watch on a single strap.

Best PS5 deal: Silent Hill 2 remake at $27.39 on Amazon

January 9, 2026, 3:42 PM EST. Deal snapshot: The Silent Hill 2 remake from Bloober Team is on sale for the PS5 at Amazon for $27.39, about a 45% discount from the list price. The title, a modern remake of the 2001 survival-horror classic, delivers updated visuals and gameplay. The deal is current at press time, but pricing and availability can change after publication.

Best PS5 deal: Silent Hill 2 remake drops to $27.39 on Amazon

January 9, 2026, 3:40 PM EST. Amazon cut the Silent Hill 2 remake for PS5 to $27.39, about a 45% drop from its list price. The deal marks a new low for Bloober Team's horror remake. Deal pricing and availability are subject to change after publication, with regional differences possible. The game is a modern reimagining of Konami's classic, featuring updated visuals and gameplay.

Your smartphone's magnetometer acts like a metal detector, but it's not one

January 9, 2026, 3:36 PM EST. Smartphones pack sensors that do more than you see. The magnetometer powers the digital compass by reading the Earth's magnetic field along the X, Y and Z axes. When metal comes close, readings spike above the baseline and a phone may register proximity. Some apps use that signal to vibrate or alert, effectively repurposing the sensor as a kind of metal detector. But a phone's magnetometer is not a true detector; it primarily helps navigation and can be disrupted by nearby metal and other interference. Results vary by device and environment. New apps offer metal-detection experiences, yet users should understand the readings are relative signals, not a guaranteed swap for dedicated hardware.

Tesla stock rises on robotaxi catalysts for 2026, analysts say

January 9, 2026, 3:34 PM EST. Tesla shares rose about 1.5% after New Street Research said the global robotaxi market looks near an inflection point. The brokerage expects commercial robotaxi operations to expand in 2026 and sees Tesla as well positioned to benefit. Analyst Peter Vogel reiterated a Buy rating and a $600 target, pointing to Tesla's lower vehicle costs, vertical integration, and a flexible supply model. He said Tesla can scale capacity by using customer-owned vehicles alongside its own fleet, potentially reducing capital needs at peak demand. The note contrasts Tesla with Waymo and highlights a large base of Full Self-Driving-enabled cars generating data. Catalysts for 2026 include progress toward unsupervised self-driving, changes to safety-driver rules, and the start of Cybercab production. Long-term, robotaxi services could become a meaningful revenue driver.

Xbox Developer Direct 2026 date set; three games confirmed

January 9, 2026, 3:30 PM EST. Microsoft has announced January 22, 2026 for the Xbox Developer Direct, airing at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm GMT. The show will feature three confirmed titles: Fable, Forza Horizon 6, and Beast of Reincarnation. The event is described as an inside look at the studios behind the games; Playground Games will present an extended look at Fable and debut gameplay for Forza Horizon 6. Game Freak's Beast of Reincarnation will be shown as a first in-depth look. Beast of Reincarnation is a third-party Xbox Game Pass title. Microsoft teased appearances from other surprises, with coverage to be provided by Pure Xbox and a full recap afterward.

CCTC strengthens internet resilience with new diverse routing path

January 9, 2026, 3:24 PM EST. CCTC announced a new, diverse internet routing path to bolster reliability after outages caused by fiber cuts, equipment issues and nationwide events outside its network. The upgrade, scheduled to go live within the month, lets the provider shift traffic quickly if another segment encounters trouble. Officials say the extra path strengthens resiliency for members and customers and reinforces ongoing network investments. The company frames the move as part of a broader effort to keep the community connected today and into the future. For inquiries, it notes a contact line: 325-348-3124.

CCTC Deploys Diverse Internet Routing Path to Boost Reliability

January 9, 2026, 3:22 PM EST. Outages attributed to external factors-fiber cuts, equipment problems, and nationwide events-were not caused by CCTC's network. The company says it has added a new, diverse path to the internet that will go live within the month, enabling rapid rerouting of traffic when issues arise elsewhere. The move aims to improve reliability and resiliency for members and customers and reflects an ongoing commitment to strengthen the network and keep the community connected today and in the future. The release closes with a New Year message and a contact number: 325-348-3124.

Xbox Developer Direct 2026 set for January 22 with three confirmed games

January 9, 2026, 3:20 PM EST. Microsoft has set the Xbox Developer Direct 2026 for January 22, kicking off at 10:00 a.m. PT / 1:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. GMT. Three titles are confirmed: Fable, Forza Horizon 6 and Beast of Reincarnation. The show, described by Microsoft as an inside look at the studios behind the games, coincides with Xbox's 25th anniversary. Two titles come from Playground Games – an extended first look at Fable and the debut of Forza Horizon 6 gameplay. The show will also feature Beast of Reincarnation from Game Freak, a third-party Xbox Game Pass title revealed last year. Release timing remains 2026 for the first two; Beast of Reincarnation is a Game Freak project. Pure Xbox will stream live with a full recap and potential surprises.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra rumored to add 60W fast charging, 0-75% in 30 minutes, launch Feb 25

January 9, 2026, 3:16 PM EST. Samsung's next flagship, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, is rumored to debut a 60W fast charging system that could push the battery from 0 to 75% in 30 minutes, according to tipster Ice Universe on X. The launch is expected February 25. The leak also hints at a reshuffled lineup, including a four-camera Ultra and a forthcoming privacy display. If confirmed, the higher wired charging speed would mark a meaningful upgrade from the previous model's 45W charging and a testing emphasis on controlled laboratory conditions with certified accessories. Real-world charging times may vary with temperature, battery health and usage. Samsung has not officially confirmed these details; the company is set to reveal more at the upcoming event. A Galaxy S26 guide is in the works.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra may charge at 60W, reach 75% in 30 minutes, launch Feb. 25

January 9, 2026, 3:14 PM EST. The Galaxy S26 Ultra could introduce a 60W fast charging system, according to tipster Ice Universe. He claims the phone can go from 0 to 75% in about 30 minutes, reducing downtime. Samsung has set a February 25, 2026 launch event for the Galaxy S26 lineup. If confirmed, this would exceed the Ultra's predecessor, which supported 45W wired charging and needed about an hour for a full charge. Samsung notes real-world charging depends on ambient temperature, battery health, and usage, even as lab tests in controlled conditions show strong results. Leaks also touch on other features, including a rumored privacy display. An official reveal is expected around launch.

CES 2026: Humanoid robots surge as Nvidia, AMD, Qualcomm push physical AI

January 9, 2026, 3:12 PM EST. CES in Las Vegas showcased humanoid robots and a push for physical AI. Nvidia, AMD and Qualcomm unveiled robot-related plans as Google's DeepMind teamed with Boston Dynamics to develop new AI models for Atlas. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang framed the moment as a turning point, noting rapid progress and forecast human-level capabilities this year. Nvidia introduced Gr00t, a vision-language model that translates sensor inputs into robot body control, and Cosmos for robot reasoning and planning. AMD highlighted its GENE.01 humanoid, while Qualcomm and partners outlined supporting hardware. DeepMind's collaboration with Hyundai's Boston Dynamics follows the broader bet that generative AI can teach robots to walk, grasp, and operate in real-world tasks. McKinsey estimates the general-purpose robotics market could hit $370 billion by 2040.

Humanoid robots dominate CES as Nvidia, AMD, Qualcomm push AI-powered future

January 9, 2026, 3:08 PM EST. At CES in Las Vegas, humanoid robots took center stage as companies pitched a future shaped by physical AI. Nvidia, AMD and Qualcomm unveiled robot-focused initiatives, while Google's DeepMind said it would collaborate with Boston Dynamics to build new AI models for the Atlas robot. Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang said the humanoid sector is riding on the AI factories we're building for other AI stuff, a line he repeated at a news conference. Demonstrations ranged from shadowboxing and dancing to small robotic shops; Sharpa from Singapore showed a robotic hand playing table tennis and dealing blackjack. Nvidia announced new versions of its Gr00t vision-language model and its Cosmos planning engine, aiming for robots with human-level capabilities this year. DeepMind's partnership signals broader integration of AI in robotics.

LEGO's first Smart Play Star Wars sets go up for preorder with interactive SMART Bricks

January 9, 2026, 3:04 PM EST. LEGO is launching its first Smart Play sets, a new interactive line built around SMART Bricks, SMART Minifigures and SMART Tags. The initial Star Wars lineup goes up for preorder and arrives March 1: Throne Room Duel & A-Wing (set 75427) at $159.99 with 962 pieces; Luke's Red Five X-Wing (75423) for $99.99 and 584 pieces; and Darth Vader's TIE Fighter (75241) for $69.99 and 473 pieces. Each box includes a SMART Brick, charger, at least one SMART Minifigure and a SMART Tag. The bricks can emit sounds, lights and engine effects, plus cues like The Imperial March. LEGO says standard sets will continue alongside Smart Play.

Pixel Watch 4 returns to $100 off; Lenovo Yoga 7 Copilot+ and The Frame TVs discounted

January 9, 2026, 2:56 PM EST. Amazon restocks its $100 discount on the 45mm Pixel Watch 4 LTE, now $399.99 shipped, as part of the Google New Year sale. The OnePlus New Year sale runs through Jan. 16 with code NEWYEAR26 unlocking discounts across watches, tablets, buds, and freebies such as a Watch strap with the OnePlus Watch 3 46mm and a free gift with Pad 3. Lenovo cuts $450 on the AMD-powered Yoga 7 2-in-1 Copilot+ PC, and trims $635 on the RTX 5060 Legion 7i OLED gaming laptop. Samsung's 2025 The Frame TVs are discounted up to $450. In short: hardware deals across wearables, laptops and big-screen TVs, with freebies and bundle offers.

Galaxy S26 Ultra charging tipped at 60W; Qi2.2 wireless charging and magnets reported

January 9, 2026, 2:48 PM EST. Samsung's next flagship may push wired charging to 60W, according to a tipster citing leaked test conditions that suggest 0% to 75% in 30 minutes with a compatible charger. The claim, if accurate, places the S26 Ultra ahead of some older Samsung models but still below many Chinese rivals that top 80W+. Samsung reportedly also adopts Qi2.2 wireless charging for the line, with the S26 Ultra at 25W wireless, while the S26 and S26+ stay at 20W. All three are said to include built-in magnets for precise charging alignment. Real-world speeds can vary with temperature and other factors.

Pew data show rising smartphone ownership and broadband use in the U.S., but digital divides persist

January 9, 2026, 2:46 PM EST. Pew Research Center tracks how Americans connect online. In its latest survey of U.S. adults conducted Feb. 5-June 18, 2025, smartphone ownership remains high and more households report broadband at home than in earlier years. Still, digital divides persist. Older adults, lower-income households and some racial and ethnic groups lag in access or use. The 25-year record shows progress, but adoption outpaces equity, leaving gaps that policy and programs must address.

Apple AirTags 4-Pack Discount Hits Record Low on Amazon

January 9, 2026, 2:42 PM EST. Amazon is offering a four-pack of Apple AirTags for $65, down from $99. The deal translates to about $16 per tag and a 34% cut, a rare price move on Apple hardware. It's a limited-time offer, and stock could vanish quickly. Each AirTag is a small coin-shaped tracker you can slip into a wallet, backpack, or attach to keys. With the Find My app, you can ring a tag, or use Precision Finding with Ultra Wideband on supported iPhones to be guided to it. If items are farther away, the Find My network uses nearby Apple devices to map a location. AirTags support Lost Mode, sharing with up to five people, IP67 water/dust resistance, and a replaceable battery lasting up to a year.

Musk says Tesla would have spent twice as much on Nvidia hardware without AI4, laments auto AI investment

January 9, 2026, 2:36 PM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said the company would have to spend about twice as much on Nvidia hardware to train its systems if not for its own AI4 chipset. He cited production of nearly two million cars annually and described vehicles equipped with dual SoC AI4, eight cameras and redundant systems. By year-end, he claimed Tesla would have spent roughly $10 billion cumulatively on Nvidia hardware for training, a figure he contrasted with Nvidia's tools for automakers. Musk added that the broader auto industry is doing little on its own to advance self-driving. Separately, discussions around Nvidia's kit prompted commentary on Tesla's FSD, with the Alpamayo system potentially rivaling FSD in five to six years, though timelines remain uncertain, as Ashok Elluswamy cautioned.

Apple tests second Background Security Update in iOS 26.3 and macOS Tahoe 26.3

January 9, 2026, 2:34 PM EST. Apple is rolling out a second test of its Background Security Improvements for iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3 and macOS Tahoe 26.3 testers. The feature, first introduced with iOS 26.1, adds protections for Safari, WebKit and other system libraries between updates, Apple said. Testers can install the update via Settings > Privacy and Security > Background Security Improvements; if Automatic Install is on, updates arrive without manual action. Those who opt out will still receive fixes through standard software updates. Apple previously used the now-rare Rapid Security Response, which was largely superseded by Background Security Improvements; a 2023 bug briefly disrupted some websites. Apple warns of rare compatibility issues and may remove the updates if problems arise, with fixes in later releases.

Meta signs multi-gigawatt nuclear deals to power AI data centers

January 9, 2026, 2:30 PM EST. Meta Platforms is poised to become one of the world's largest corporate buyers of nuclear power, striking deals that could total more than 6 gigawatts to fuel AI data centers. The agreements cover electricity from existing Vistra plants and support for future small reactors that Oklo and TerraPower are developing. Investors rewarded energy stocks modestly; Vistra rose as much as 16%, Oklo as 19%, Meta up about 1%. The move underscores a race among Big Tech to secure power amid surging demand forecast for data centers, with US usage expected to grow about 30% by 2030. Meta stresses a low-carbon energy mix and a flexible, no-one-size-fits-all approach to bring nuclear into the grid. Costs are undisclosed but such deals can run into billions.

AG Nessel seeks rehearing on DTE contracts for massive Washtenaw County AI data center

January 9, 2026, 2:28 PM EST. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has asked the Michigan Public Service Commission to rehear its approval of two special electricity contracts for a planned 1.4-gigawatt AI data center in Washtenaw County. In a petition filed this week, she contends the MPSC fast-tracked the case without a contested hearing and that many safeguards are nonbinding assurances rather than enforceable requirements. The project would sit on about 575 acres in Saline Township with a second parcel in Bridgewater Township, and would be the largest U.S. data center by footprint. The MPSC granted conditional approval on December 18; DTE Energy has 30 days to accept. Nessel questions whether DTE can financially back the project and urges full public review with access to redacted contracts.

Breakreal R1 AI cocktail dispenser debuts at CES 2026 amid practicality questions

January 9, 2026, 2:26 PM EST. Billed as an LLM-powered cocktail dispenser, the Breakreal R1 surfaces at CES 2026 with ambition and limits. Breakreal says the device translates cravings into bespoke recipes via an on-board large language model and can generate 'unlimited AI generated recipes.' In practice, Gizmodo's James Pero found the machine awkward: eight ingredient slots cap the lineup, two spare chambers exist, and the combinations may clash. The unit reportedly pours in 20 to 40 seconds and leaks from the arm rather than the nozzle. Price matters: $1,299 on Kickstarter, with a current $999 early-access option after a $300 discount. By comparison, Bartesian sells for about $349. Breakreal pitches features like LLM-powered interaction and mood-sensing flavor adaptation, but critics question value and practicality in real bars.

iOS 26 adds tappable URLs to screenshots via visual intelligence

January 9, 2026, 2:18 PM EST. Apple's iOS 26 introduces visual intelligence that scans screenshots for plain-text URLs and renders a tappable link at the bottom of the screen. The on-device AI works on recent models, including iPhone 17, 16 and 15 Pro. By default, screenshots open in full-screen mode where the link appears; users who prefer the legacy bottom-left thumbnail must tap it to load the full view. The feature targets situations like Instagram captions where links are not clickable, offering a one-tap path to open URLs. Apple has not specified broader rollout timing. The capability marks another step in making visuals actionable on iPhone, without additional apps.

Senators urge Apple, Google to remove X and Grok from app stores over sexual deepfakes

January 9, 2026, 2:16 PM EST. Three Democratic senators pressed Apple and Google to remove Elon Musk's X and the Grok AI app from their stores after Grok generated non-consensual sexual imagery of real people on the platform. In an open letter, Sens. Ron Wyden, Ed Markey and Ben Ray Luján urged enforcement of store policies banning this content. By Friday, X had restricted Grok's image generation on X to premium subscribers, while the standalone Grok app and site continued producing sexualized deepfakes. The senators argued Apple's App Store and Google's Play Store terms appear to prohibit such content and called for removal until policy violations are addressed. The move highlights safety and moderation concerns on major platforms and the split between on-platform actions and standalone apps.

Pokémon Go spawn rate drops after January update; Niantic investigates

January 9, 2026, 2:10 PM EST. Since a January 6 update, Pokemon Go players – including those at home – have reported a sharp drop in wild spawns after years of broader roaming availability. The change follows the end of McDonalds-sponsored Gyms, which vanished from the map, and appears to have reduced the number of spawns in areas without Poke Stops. Players on Reddit and other platforms say they now see only 1-2 Pokemon when opening the app, a contrast to earlier days when half a dozen or more could appear, even in rural settings. Niantic says the team is investigating the issue after players submitted support tickets; it's unclear whether this is a glitch or an intentional adjustment to spawn pools. Community feedback could influence the outcome.

Lovense Unveils Emily, an AI-Powered Companion Doll, at CES 2026

January 9, 2026, 2:08 PM EST. Lovense debuted at CES 2026 with Emily, an AI-powered companion doll that blends physical intimacy with conversational intelligence. The life-size figure features a silicone exterior, a fully posable internal skeleton, and limited facial movement for expressive interaction. The real edge is the memory of the AI: Emily can hold conversations, recall past interactions and adapt her personality over time. The AI connects to the Lovense app via Bluetooth, enabling interaction when apart and allowing customization of features, including AI-generated selfies. Lovense positions Emily as part of a broader ecosystem that links hardware, software and ongoing personalization through machine learning. Pricing ranges from $4,000 to $8,000, with shipping expected in 2027.

Rivian App Named Best Automaker App Again in MotorTrend's 2026 Best Tech Awards

January 9, 2026, 2:06 PM EST. MotorTrend named the Rivian mobile app Best Automaker App in its 2026 Best Tech Awards, a repeat win that the magazine called the best overall automotive tech of the year. Judges praised a clean design, fast performance and indispensable features-from day-to-day vehicle controls to charging and real-time status. The award frames Rivian's software as a benchmark for the EV era and underlines why the brand stands out. Yet owners describe mixed experiences: some report inconsistent unlocking, unreliable charging history and slow camera loading, while others note improvements after the 2025.46 update that added a UWB key for pre-emptive unlocking. The recognition highlights the importance of app software in car ownership, even as practical reliability remains uneven for some users.

Apple eyes September foldable debut as Samsung preps panel production

January 9, 2026, 2:04 PM EST. Apple is targeting a September release for its first foldable smartphone, according to a source familiar with the matter, as the world's largest smartphone maker moves to enter the market now dominated by Samsung Display. Production of Apple-bound panels is expected to start in May, with about 9 million units in the initial batch. Samsung's latest foldable panel aims to reduce the crease thanks to a laser-drilled metal plate and ultrathin glass layers. Neither company commented. IDC projects Apple to take roughly 20% of the foldables market this year, rising to about 22% unit share and 34% market value in its first year if launch momentum holds. Samsung remains the market leader with a large share, while the discussion also mentions the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Google Play star ratings are broken – eight signals to trust instead

January 9, 2026, 2:00 PM EST. The piece argues Google Play star ratings have become unreliable, hijacked by bots and aggressive marketers. Instead of chasing five-star praise, the author touts eight signals to judge an app's quality. Key themes include examining metadata, changelogs, and developer activity rather than vanity scores. A highlighted signal is update cadence: apps updated every three to six months are more likely to include security patches and compatibility with the latest Android APIs. Frequent updates can also address crashes and battery drain. The piece warns about deceptive practices such as pushy pop-ups promoting subscriptions and apps abusing notification access. Taken together, the signals offer a practical, receipts-based approach to evaluating apps before they reach your home screen.

xAI to power Tesla Optimus, raising fiduciary duty questions in lawsuits

January 9, 2026, 1:54 PM EST. Elon Musk's private AI outfit xAI has told investors it will develop the AI to power Tesla's Optimus robot, according to a Bloomberg report detailing widening losses at xAI. The disclosure signals a shift from a Tesla-as-AI-company narrative to one where xAI supplies the intelligence behind Optimus, potentially leaving Tesla largely as hardware. The claim could affect ongoing shareholder lawsuits accusing Musk of breaching fiduciary duties at Tesla. Critics say Musk moved AI talent and resources to xAI, weakening Tesla's AI effort. If accurate, the arrangement challenges Musk's defense and reshapes how the value of Optimus is attributed.

AI-generated bomb threats to Tallahassee private schools deemed non-credible, officials say

January 9, 2026, 1:52 PM EST. Officials said several private schools in Tallahassee were targeted by threat calls later described as AI-generated and non-credible. The Tallahassee Police Department and the Leon County Sheriff's Office confirmed the incidents and said no evidence of an imminent danger has surfaced. Javonni Hampton of the LCSO said investigators are treating the messages as possibly AI-driven and not substantiated. The Tallahassee State College Police Department joined in the briefing. In a joint statement, law enforcement said each report is being investigated with local, state and federal resources, but there is no credible or active threat at this time. Authorities cautioned families and staff to remain vigilant. The case is developing; more details are expected soon.

Nintendo brings My Mario collection to US stores on February 19, 2026

January 9, 2026, 1:50 PM EST. Nintendo will roll out its My Mario line in the United States on February 19, 2026, after an earlier Japan launch. The range includes an interactive Hello, Mario! app, a free download for Switch, Switch 2, iOS and Android, featuring a 3D Mario head that reacts to pokes, tugs and flings. Physical items cover infant and toddler apparel, a board book, plush Mario toys, bath and water toys, and two wooden block sets with Amiibo functionality. Availability starts at Nintendo's New York and San Francisco stores, with broader distribution at select retailers this spring and online orders to follow. Report by Andrew Liszewski.

AI stocks could double in 2026: Nebius, Applied Digital and SoundHound AI

January 9, 2026, 1:46 PM EST. Three AI stocks stand out as potential doublers in 2026: Nebius, Applied Digital and SoundHound AI. Nebius, spun out of Yandex after sanctions, is renting out data-center capacity with GPUs and aims for a $7 billion to $9 billion annual run rate (ARR) by year-end 2026, up from $551 million last quarter. The demand for computing power is strong, and the company says it has sold out current capacity. Applied Digital operates two North Dakota data centers and is a CoreWeave partner; 15-year leases provide long-term visibility as it expands capacity. In Q1 of fiscal year 2026, revenue rose about 84% year over year. SoundHound AI combines generative AI with audio recognition; in its latest quarter, revenue grew 68% YoY and the firm raised its full-year outlook, with potential uptake in 2026 from enterprise deployments.

Apple reportedly dissects Android foldable to chase crease-free iPhone Fold

January 9, 2026, 1:32 PM EST. Apple is rumored to have exhausted in-house options for a crease-less display for its upcoming iPhone Fold. A Weibo tipster, Fixed-focus digital cameras, claims Apple tore down an OPPO Find N5 to probe why its crease is so unobtrusive. The inner display on the Find N5 is Samsung-made, fueling talk that Apple shifted to Samsung panels after trying to build them in-house. Rumors also tie Samsung's creaseless tech to CES 2025, potentially for the iPhone Fold. Apple may have tested multiple book-style foldables; definitive proof remains undisclosed.

SpaceX pre-sunrise liftoff from Vandenberg; where to watch

January 9, 2026, 1:28 PM EST. SpaceX is targeting a pre-sunrise liftoff from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County, with the Falcon 9 set to launch at about 5:19 a.m. PT on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026. The mission, called Twilight, is a rideshare to deploy NASA's small satellites, including the exoplanet-studying Pandora payload, into a sun-synchronous orbit that arcs toward dawn and remains sunlit. The launch will originate from Space Launch Complex 4E; the booster's return to Vandenberg is possible for some missions. Public viewing is not hosted at the base, but clear skies can offer vantage points around Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. Weather or technical delays can push the window; a backup opportunity may exist the following day.

SpaceX to launch Falcon 9 from Vandenberg on Jan. 11, 2026; watch livestream

January 9, 2026, 1:26 PM EST. SpaceX plans a pre-dawn Falcon 9 liftoff from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, at 5:19 a.m. PT. The two-stage rocket will deploy NASA's Pandora exoplanet-study satellite and carry a Twilight rideshare mission to sun-synchronous orbit, with small commercial satellites included. A backup opportunity is available the following day if weather or technical issues delay the launch. SpaceX will stream the lift-off on its website and the X TV app about 15 minutes before liftoff, with updates on X as the countdown progresses. The mission underscores SpaceX's frequent launches from Southern California and its ongoing rideshare work for government and commercial customers.

Earth Observation Small Satellite Market to Reach $5.52 Billion by 2030, MarketsandMarkets Says

January 9, 2026, 1:20 PM EST. MarketsandMarkets projects the Earth Observation Small Satellite Market expanding from USD 2.64 billion in 2025 to USD 5.52 billion by 2030, a CAGR of 15.9%. The Asia Pacific region accounted for a 57% share in 2025. The mini satellite segment (101-1,200 kg) is set to lead growth with a 17.1% CAGR, while the satellite bus remains the dominant system. Defense applications are the fastest-growing customer segment through 2030, and the X-band (8-12 GHz) frequency is expected to dominate. The report highlights the need for high-frequency geospatial data for defense, environmental management, and commercial analytics.

DJI Power 2000 portable power station hits $699 on Amazon

January 9, 2026, 1:18 PM EST. DJI's Power 2000 portable power station is on sale at Amazon for $699, down from $1,299-a 46% discount. Mashable notes the unit combines high-capacity power with ultra-fast charging and is the best price tracked for this model. The deal is current as of Jan. 9, 2026, but pricing can change after publication. The device appeals to users needing reliable mobile power for travel, work sites, or emergencies, thanks to multiple ports and high output; buyers should monitor stock and retailer terms as the offer evolves.

Tesla Cybertruck hardware supports Active Noise Cancellation but software-locked, service tool shows

January 9, 2026, 1:14 PM EST. Tesla's Service Toolbox reveals the Cybertruck has the hardware for Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) installed, the same system used in the Model S and Model X, but the feature is currently software-locked. A diagnostic screenshot notes that, as of 30-Jan-2025, ANC software is not enabled on the Cybertruck despite the hardware. ANC works via multiple cabin microphones and wheel accelerometers to generate anti-noise that cancels road rumble. The Cybertruck carries four cabin microphones versus six in the flagship models, and its large glass canopy plus its cabin design create a distinct acoustic environment that complicates calibration. An OTA update could enable ANC later, effectively future-proofing the vehicle for an expected upgrade.

Intel Unveils Core Ultra Series 3 Mobile Processors, Panther Lake and the 18A Process at CES 2026

January 9, 2026, 1:12 PM EST. Intel unveils the Core Ultra Series 3 for mobile devices, codename Panther Lake, at CES 2026. The launch marks the debut of Intel's 18A process node and brings new architectures to the P and E cores and the integrated GPU. The lineup is mobile-only; there will be no desktop Core Ultra 3 release, with desktop duties handled by the existing Core Ultra 2 (Arrow Lake). Intel plans 14 SKUs available starting January 27, with more non-Ultra chips to follow later in the year. The company seeks to regain x86 client share amid a window against AMD, leveraging the platform changes to compete in mobile PCs.

AI nudges developers toward typed languages, boosting safety in AI-generated code

January 9, 2026, 1:10 PM EST. GitHub's AI-driven development shift is pushing developers toward typed languages, the company says. As AI tools contribute code and boilerplate, a type system provides a safety net that catches mismatches between inputs and outputs and enforces project standards. Proponents of dynamic languages like Python and JavaScript value speed, but AI-generated code raises the stakes for reliability. A 2025 academic study found 94% of LLM-generated compilation errors were type-check failures, underscoring the value of static typing. GitHub's Octoverse 2025 data show TypeScript overtaking Python and JavaScript as the most used language on GitHub, reflecting this trend. Typed languages are not about banning untyped code, but about constraining AI-produced code to reduce surprises.

Gates warns AI could fuel bioterrorism; urges governance

January 9, 2026, 1:04 PM EST. Bill Gates warns in his annual letter that AI will reshape society more than any invention, for better and for worse. He says the greatest risk is misuse by bad actors, including open-source tools that could help design bioterrorism weapons. He calls for deliberate governance, careful development, and responsible deployment as the world grapples with jobs disruption. He revisits a 2015 TED talk about pandemics, noting that better preparation could have reduced Covid suffering, a lesson that remains relevant with AI progress. Regulators and firms are already confronting harms, from safety to privacy, as analysts debate the pace of labor-market change.

The 37-point trust gap: AI's value hinges on organizational readiness

January 9, 2026, 1:00 PM EST. Two surveys in the same year, of the same developer audience evaluating AI models from OpenAI, Anthropic and Google, produced sharply different trust results. The DORA report argues the gap isn't about the AI itself but the surrounding operational environment. AI acts as an amplifier, with leaders focusing on value realization rather than adoption. The study identifies seven organizational capabilities that distinguish the 70% who feel confident from the 33% in Stack Overflow's results, linking velocity and performance to governance, data practices, and decision rights. In short, the trust gap reflects organizational readiness more than model quality.

Rigetti stock cools after 6,850% run; is the dip a buy?

January 9, 2026, 12:44 PM EST. Rigetti Computing's stock closed at a record $56.34 on Oct. 15, 2025, a 6,850% jump in 12 months fueled by new contracts and rising optimism for quantum computing. In the next three months, the shares halved to around $26 as enthusiasm cooled. The slowdown follows revenue declines: 60% growth in 2022, then down 8% in 2023 and 10% in 2024; analysts forecast about $7.6 million in 2025. The company attributes part of the weakness to the expiration of its National Quantum Initiative (NQI) contract and timing gaps in other government deals. It faces competition from IBM, Google, and IonQ, which pursue different quantum approaches. Rigetti remains a full-stack provider, selling hardware, software, and cloud access via its Forest platform and promoting its modular and non-modular QPUs, including Ankaa-3 and Cepheus-1-36Q.

Bitcoin endures internet blackouts as traditional finance falters

January 9, 2026, 12:38 PM EST. Bitcoin can continue moving even when national internet access is cut, a feature highlighted as governments test how to clamp down on money. Proponents note the network operates outside a single country or server: if you own your private keys, your funds still exist even when the online world stalls. The ledger keeps moving, albeit with limited end-user activity under outages. In Iran, nationwide blackouts disrupt banks, payment apps, and exchanges, but the system's architecture remains intact. The Blockstream Satellite project broadcasts the blockchain by radio and satellite, and users can prepare or sign offline transactions later relayed through radio or mesh networks, or SMS. Critics say Bitcoin isn't a cure-all under authoritarian pressure, but it introduces a separate, permissionless path for money.

Rampart Bioscience closes after pursuing non-viral gene therapy

January 9, 2026, 12:30 PM EST. Rampart Bioscience closes less than 15 months after launch as it pursued non-viral gene therapy. The company, backed by $125 million, aimed to solve a long-standing problem in genetic medicine: delivering therapeutic genes without viral vectors. The shutdown underscores the hurdles facing early-stage gene-therapy ventures-from scientific challenges to regulatory costs. Investors reassess value, while former staff and partners seek new opportunities and the fate of the platform remains unclear.

Experts dispute Russia's zone-effect plan to hit Starlink, flag debris risk

January 9, 2026, 12:28 PM EST. Two NATO intelligence services reportedly told the Associated Press that Russia is developing a new anti-satellite weapon to target Starlink, described as a zone-effect device that would release a cloud of dense pellets. If real, it could create a debris field in low Earth orbit (LEO) and threaten other satellites. Experts are divided: Victoria Samson of the Secure World Foundation says she would be very surprised Russia pursued this; Brig. Gen. Christopher Horner, commander of Canada's Space Division, cautions there is no public evidence but says such a tactic isn't implausible. Starlink satellites travel about 27,000 km/h at roughly 550 km altitude. Debris at those speeds can cause catastrophic damage to a satellite, and a zone-effect attack would risk indiscriminate damage to many assets in LEO.

Satellite Launch Vehicle Market to Reach $29.1 Billion by 2027 Driven by AI, Reusable Rockets and Small-Satellite Growth

January 9, 2026, 12:26 PM EST. MarketsandMarkets projects the Satellite Launch Vehicle market to grow from about USD 15.7 billion in 2022 to USD 29.1 billion by 2027, a CAGR of 13.1%. Growth is driven by a multi-layer value chain, rising use of dedicated small-satellite launchers and reusable launch vehicles, and increasingly applying artificial intelligence (AI) to design, mission planning and cost control. Major players include SpaceX, United Launch Alliance, Northrop Grumman, Blue Origin and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. In payload terms,

NIO, CATL Expand Five-Year Battery Pact to Scale Long-Life Cells and Battery Swap

January 9, 2026, 12:22 PM EST. CATL and NIO ink a five-year strategic partnership to advance long-life battery technologies and scalable battery-swap services. The collaboration aims to co-develop batteries with extended lifespans to cut ownership costs and boost durability, while expanding a more open battery-swapping ecosystem domestically and abroad. The deal also covers battery-system compatibility, resource sharing, and broader deployment of swap stations, potentially inviting other automakers to join. The move comes as China remains the world's largest EV market amid a ruthless price war that could squeeze many players. CATL, which held about 38% of the global EV-battery market last year, powers vehicles for Tesla, BMW and VW and has diversified into marine batteries. NIO delivered a record 48,135 vehicles in December 2025, and annual deliveries rose 46.9% to 326,028.

AI hogs CES 2026 spotlight, but demos stumble and privacy concerns rise

January 9, 2026, 12:14 PM EST. CES 2026 showcased AI rushing into every gadget-from dishwashers to toilets-yet many demos underlined a hype gap. At Nvidia's booth, a robot named Luka offered items; the handoff started smoothly but the device lost track of a package, then redirected to a soda. A demo of Razer Project Motoko headphones with wearable AI drew attention for suggesting a pipe wrench to fix pipes. Not all demos failed, but the pattern is clear: industry excitement drives mass-market push, aided by a stock-market pull and eager investors. From a consumer lens, the wider spread of AI raises privacy concerns as devices collect more data in homes.

Open-source EMR tablet project lets you build your own tablet from scratch

January 9, 2026, 12:12 PM EST. Project Patchouli, created by designer Yukidama, aims to let enthusiasts build an EMR tablet from scratch. The project uses Electromagnetic Resonance to track pen input, with a tablet-mounted coil array compatible with pens from different vendors. A YouTube demo shows how coils near the tip, a test board measuring frequency, and a signal amplifier sending data to a computer. The GitLab repo hosts firmware, hardware designs and CAD files; the docs section offers graphs and additional photos. The effort is best seen as a proof of concept rather than a ready-made rival to commercial tablets, which today offer features like tilt, high-pressure sensitivity and larger form factors. Builders would still need to source PCB fabrication and assemble components.

CES 2026: AI hogs the spotlight, but demos falter and privacy questions loom

January 9, 2026, 12:10 PM EST. LAS VEGAS – CES 2026 showcased AI everywhere, from dishwashers to headphones, but the excitement dimmed when demos misfired. A Nvidia showcase robot, nicknamed Luka, struggled with a moving target, freezing and re-offering a soda after a stumble. A separate demo, by Razer's Project Motoko, drew laughter for suggesting a socket wrench to fix pipes. While many AI and robotics setups ran smoothly, the failures highlighted the gap between hype and practicality. The episode fits a broader industry pattern: a buzz cycle that can lift stock prices and attract investors, even as consumer users raise privacy and reliability concerns about AI-powered devices. In short, AI's mass-market moment is still in progress.

GM to phase out Apple CarPlay across vehicles by 2028, starting with EVs

January 9, 2026, 12:00 PM EST. GM will phase out Apple CarPlay support as part of a multi-year push toward a GM-branded infotainment system. CEO Mary Barra said the company will prioritize electric vehicles in the current window and extend the change across the portfolio over time. The shift began with EVs and is not expected to affect all models immediately; GM has not set a timetable for gas-powered vehicles. The move, seen by some as a revenue play through subscriptions, covers three popular GM models that will ship without CarPlay, including the Chevy Bolt and the Chevy Blazer. GM plans a CarPlay-free future as it expands an in-house system developed with Google, replacing the native experience that many iPhone owners rely on.

EchoLeak Reveals Limits of Conventional Cybersecurity Against AI like Copilot

January 9, 2026, 11:50 AM EST. In June 2025, researchers uncovered EchoLeak, a vulnerability that exposed sensitive Microsoft 365 Copilot data without any user interaction. Unlike classic breaches that rely on phishing or user error, EchoLeak bypassed human behavior by manipulating how Copilot interacts with user data, silently extracting confidential information. The incident underscores a harder truth: current security models, built for predictable software and app-layer defenses, struggle to protect AI infrastructure that is dynamic and highly interconnected. Experts say organizations must rethink risk, adopting AI-aware protections and runtime monitoring that consider data flow across assistants, services, and users. There is no single patch; defense is behavioral, architectural, and continuous.

Flock Safety says data breach exposed Condor camera feeds, calls issue isolated

January 9, 2026, 11:44 AM EST. Flock Safety says a data breach exposed some Condor cameras to the internet, letting outsiders view live feeds, access about a month of archived video and even delete footage. The company said only a small number of units were affected and framed the issue as an isolated configuration flaw tied to testing with cellular carriers. Police and municipal customers were alerted, while privacy advocates warned of broader risks posed by license-plate and other law-enforcement cameras. A YouTuber highlighted potential privacy and national security concerns, calling the setup 'Netflix for Stalkers.' Flock Safety stressed that security updates were deployed, and that the breach did not reflect a wider vulnerability. Officials urged ongoing vetting and improvements to deployments.

DJI Avata 360 Leaks Reveal FPV + 360 Capability, 2026 Arrival

January 9, 2026, 11:34 AM EST. Two leaked images of the DJI Avata 360 show the drone pairing a gray cinewhoop-style frame with full spherical prop guards and a cable-connected control feed from a DJI RC 2. The images hint at a tiltable camera module that could allow a forward-facing view for traditional FPV flight, alongside 360-degree capture. A likely O4 transmission module is advertised for extended range. The kit appears with a battery charging hub and spare packs. Early pricing points place the China pricing at ¥2,988 (drone only), ¥3,988 (Standard Combo), and ¥5,688 (Fly More). US estimates run higher: about $489, $680, and $999 respectively. DJI Care costs around $57, and FCC pre-approval suggests the model will sell in the US in Q1 2026, though final specs are pending.

Final VR3000 EX gaming headset review: immersive sound, long battery life, heat issue

January 9, 2026, 11:32 AM EST. Final VR3000 EX delivers highly detailed sound and a dedicated footsteps mode for FPS games, with a flip-to-mute mic for clear comms. It lasts long on a charge and supports broad, multi-platform compatibility via a low-latency 2.4GHz USB-A dongle and Bluetooth 5.3, making it suitable for PlayStation 5/4 and other devices. At about 13.72 oz, it's comfortable for long sessions, though the earcups can get hot after hours. The headband uses a mesh that cushions pressure, but the control scheme is not intuitive and needs simplification. Priced at $149 / £99, it competes on sound detail and comfort, but users who value long-term cooling and simpler controls may prefer alternatives. The headset's strengths lean to immersion and range; the caveat is heat build-up and tricky controls.

Utah pilots AI-driven prescription renewals; doctors voice concerns

January 9, 2026, 11:30 AM EST. Utah residents can renew prescriptions online via Doctronic, an AI system. For $4, the user answers a few questions and the system uses a shared database connected to about 95% of pharmacies to verify prior prescriptions. If the AI is unsure, it refers to a licensed doctor on call; the program's agreement requires a doctor to review the first 250 renewals. Doctronic can renew only from a list of 191 drugs, none of which are controlled substances. Critics, including Michelle McOmber, CEO of the Utah Medical Association, question how AI can compensate for patient medical histories and whether a renewal might be for a temporary trial. Utah cites regulatory-relief as a driver; Doctronic notes an 81% match with clinician diagnoses in 500 urgent-care visits, a medRxiv study not yet peer reviewed.

UK's CarbSAR uses knitted radar antenna for high-resolution Earth imaging

January 9, 2026, 11:28 AM EST. UK company Oxford Space Systems launches CarbSAR, a small radar satellite with a mesh antenna knitted from tungsten wire coated in gold. The deployable dish, formed by 48 radially wound ribs that can collapse to 75 cm, expands in orbit as carbon-fibre segments straighten and pull the mesh into a parabolic shape. The 140-kilogram craft, built with Surrey Satellite Technology Limited, will image Earth's surface in all weather, including night, offering high-resolution data for potential military and civilian use. Testing shows the mesh stays within a millimetre of the ideal shape. If successful, a future MoD constellation under ISTARI, including Oberon, could follow and position the UK as a radar supplier to foreign governments.

Client Challenge: Web pages blocked when JavaScript is disabled

January 9, 2026, 11:26 AM EST. Users encounter a standard web-application hurdle when JavaScript is disabled in their browser. A site message notes that a required component cannot load, and users are urged to enable JavaScript to proceed. The issue can stem from browser settings, extensions, or network conditions, including ad blockers. Guidance emphasizes checking the connection, disabling ad blockers, or trying a different browser. In practice, it slows access to services and may affect sites that rely on client-side scripts for rendering. Web teams are advised to test across configurations and clearly communicate when features require JavaScript for core functionality.

GeForce @ CES 2026: NVIDIA DLSS 4.5, RTX Remix gains event-driven graphics logic

January 9, 2026, 11:22 AM EST. NVIDIA's RTX Remix, a modding platform for RTX AI PCs, lets fans reimagine classic games with cutting-edge path tracing. The company said the tool empowers modders to update visuals and open a new wave of players to beloved titles. Later this month, a new RTX Remix update will be available via the NVIDIA app, adding a powerful logic system that lets modders trigger dynamic graphics effects across a range of in-game events.

U.S. to implement nationwide cellphone ban under 'distraction' law, affecting millions

January 9, 2026, 11:18 AM EST. A new distraction law will impose a total cellphone ban for millions of Americans. The policy targets handheld device use in driving and other activities the government deems risky, arguing it will cut accidents and errors. Proponents describe it as a safety measure; critics warn about enforcement challenges, inequities, and potential unintended consequences for emergencies and legitimate communication. The law is said to be coming into force, but details on timing, exemptions, and enforcement remain contested.

OneStream to go private in $6.4 billion deal to accelerate AI strategy in finance

January 9, 2026, 11:16 AM EST. OneStream will go private in an all-cash deal valued at about $6.4 billion, with Hg paying $24 a share. General Atlantic and Tidemark join as minority investors; the deal is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. OneStream reported $568 million in annual recurring revenue in 2024 and AI bookings up about 60% year over year in Q3. CEO Tom Shea says the buyout will accelerate an AI-driven strategy in finance, lifting speed beyond quarterly results. The company, founded in 2012, has more than 1,700 customers, including Toyota, Capital One and UPS. Hg's investment follows a Nasdaq debut in July 2024; OneStream was valued at about $4.6 billion at IPO. John Kinzer becomes interim CFO as leadership shifts toward data- and domain-driven AI.

NVIDIA RTX accelerates 4K AI video generation on PC with LTX-2 and ComfyUI upgrades

January 9, 2026, 11:14 AM EST. NVIDIA unveiled a wave of PC-centric AI upgrades at CES, framing faster, more private generation of video, image and language content on RTX PCs. The company cites up to 3x performance gains and a 60% VRAM reduction through PyTorch-CUDA optimizations and native NVFP4/FP8 support in ComfyUI, plus RTX Video Super Resolution integration for clearer 4K outputs. The open-weights release of LTX-2 from Lightricks gains NVFP8 optimizations to drive 4K video from a Blender 3D scene via a three-blueprint pipeline: 3D object generation, 3D-guided image generation and a frame-accurate video generator. NVIDIA also notes up to 35% faster SLM inference with Ollama and llama.cpp, and RTX acceleration for Nexa.ai's Hyperlink video search. The emphasis is on local, low-latency AI work with stronger privacy.

WEF sees 4 AI futures for jobs by 2030; only one limits disruption

January 9, 2026, 11:08 AM EST. The World Economic Forum lays out four AI-driven futures for work through 2030, with only one scenario designed to limit disruption to jobs. In the other paths, AI adoption accelerates productivity and shifts skill needs, potentially widening gaps if workers aren't retrained. The report underscores policy levers-reskilling, wage support, and social safety nets-needed to steer outcomes toward less disruption.

NVIDIA app update adds DLSS 4.5 Super Resolution and new GeForce Game Ready Driver

January 9, 2026, 11:06 AM EST. NVIDIA releases a DLSS 4.5 Super Resolution upgrade alongside a new GeForce Game Ready Driver. The update adds support for 63 G-SYNC Compatible displays, including 2026 LG and Samsung TVs, with a VRR baseline validated by the G-SYNC team to improve gaming smoothness. The catalog now spans hundreds of monitors and TVs across price points. The 27-inch Samsung Odyssey G60H enters the lineup as the world's first 1,040Hz dual-mode competitive display. Also featured is the ASUS ROG Strix XG27JCG, a 27-inch, 180Hz Fast IPS panel at 5120×2880 (5K) with 218 PPI, capable of a 2560×1440 330Hz mode for competitive play. For the full list of displays, see the G-SYNC page.

Apple declutter hacks: streamline gear and embrace USB-C

January 9, 2026, 11:04 AM EST. A Macworld guide offers a practical start to the year for Apple users aiming to declutter. It suggests purging obsolete devices-old iPhones, iPads, watches, and unused chargers-and selling viable gear to recyclers such as Back Market. It also calls out broken items for recycling. On cables, the piece urges moving to USB-C with iPhone 15 and later, aligning with iPads, Macs, and EU rules, to slash the tangle of cords. Some devices still rely on Lightning cables, but one is often enough. The author recommends trimming duplicates, using a wireless keyboard and mouse while keeping a wired spare, and avoiding USB-A on newer Macs. It notes USB-C cables vary-some for high-speed data, others mainly for charging-so buyers should match cables to use cases.

Avowed lands on PlayStation with anniversary update

January 9, 2026, 10:56 AM EST. Obsidian Entertainment says Avowed is headed to PlayStation, revealed during a New Game+ Showcase. The PS5 version launches February 17, alongside an anniversary update for all platforms. The update adds New Game Plus, Photo Mode, three new races (Aumaua, Orlan, Dwarves), a new weapon type, and the ability to change overworld appearance, plus other upgrades. Pre-orders for the PS5 release go live today, and the update will be free for owners on other platforms. Avowed debuted almost a year ago, praised for worldbuilding and writing but described as a safe, by-the-numbers fantasy adventure. The cross-platform move is part of a broader Xbox strategy to publish first-party titles on rivals' platforms, a policy leadership has described as moving away from exclusivity.

DLSS 4 reaches 250+ games, powering 007 First Light, Phantom Blade Zero and more

January 9, 2026, 10:52 AM EST. DLSS 4 has rolled out to more than 250 games, Nvidia said, expanding its reach across PC titles and upcoming releases. The feature is set to arrive in titles including 007 First Light, Phantom Blade Zero, and PRAGMATA with Path Tracing, among others. Capcom's Resident Evil Requiem will be optimized for PC with DLSS 4 and path tracing, delivering faster frame rates and enhanced lighting. The end-user benefit includes multiple shadows from different light sources, reflections and glass refractions for greater realism. A new trailer shows DLSS 4-accelerated gameplay, as Capcom emphasizes the balance between performance and image quality. The PC version of Resident Evil Requiem is slated for February 27, with more titles to follow.

Google's January Pixel update triggers boot issues for Pixel 9 and 10

January 9, 2026, 10:40 AM EST. Google's January 2026 Pixel update is triggering boot hangs and black screens on the Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 lines. The roughly 15MB patch began rolling out recently, with Pixel 10 users reporting wallpaper visible but no UI or status bar after reboot, and others stuck on a black screen. A workaround exists: hold Power + Volume Up for about 30 seconds to force a restart, and charging can help some units snap out of it. The Pixel 9 series shows milder issues-launcher slowness and notification delays that mostly settle after a reboot. Google has not issued an official fix yet, continuing a pattern of frequent micro-patches that erode user trust. The cycle echoes prior updates that caused battery or display problems, pressuring buyers to weigh software stability against rivals like Samsung.

NVIDIA Rubin platform unveils six-chip AI supercomputer for factory-scale AI

January 9, 2026, 10:36 AM EST. NVIDIA's Rubin platform targets the new era of AI factories, pooling GPUs, CPUs, networking, software and cooling in a single rack-scale system. The design treats the data center as the unit of compute, aiming for predictable performance and efficiency in production, not just benchmarks. The stack centers on six new chips and the rack-scale Vera Rubin NVL72, linking silicon, software and systems into sustained intelligence at scale. From chips to DGX SuperPOD, Rubin scales from single racks to factory deployments. The software spine spans CUDA and CUDA-X plus common training and inference frameworks. NVIDIA cites gains: fewer GPUs to train, 10x higher inference throughput, and 10x lower cost per token. Extreme co-design underpins reliability, security and deployment velocity.

CES 2026: Open-source AI tools accelerate LLMs and diffusion models on NVIDIA RTX PCs

January 9, 2026, 10:30 AM EST. CES 2026 saw NVIDIA roll out updates to the AI PC developer stack, boosting open-source tools on RTX GPUs. Acceleration targets include llama.cpp, Ollama, and ComfyUI for LLMs and diffusion models, with CUDA-optimized kernels and NVFP4/FP8 quantization. NVIDIA cites about 3x throughput with NVFP4 and 2x with NVFP8 on typical workloads. A new LTX-2 audio-video model gains optimized paths, while weight streaming and mixed-precision support hide memory latency and increase throughput. RMS & RoPE Fusion trims memory use and latency in diffusion transformers. The push spans agentic AI workflows on RTX PCs and DGX Spark, plus sample code in the ComfyUI Kitchen repo and HuggingFace checkpoints.

NVIDIA brings GeForce NOW to Linux PCs and Amazon Fire TV

January 9, 2026, 10:24 AM EST. NVIDIA announced at CES that GeForce NOW is expanding to native Linux PCs and Amazon Fire TV sticks, both powered by GeForce RTX 5080-class servers on the Blackwell RTX platform. Ultimate members can stream up to 5K at 120 fps, or 1080p at 360 fps with NVIDIA Reflex for ultralow latency. A Cinematic-Quality Streaming mode sharpens image clarity for single-player titles. The new Linux app supports Ubuntu 24.04+, letting compatible machines become GeForce RTX-powered cloud rigs with ray tracing and DLSS 4 without a local GPU. The Fire TV app enables RTX gaming on living-room displays via Fire TV Stick 4K Plus (2nd Gen) and 4K Max (2nd Gen). A Linux beta is planned, with more games and platforms to come.

Apple's iPhone Fold adopts Samsung CoE OLED for thinner, brighter display

January 9, 2026, 10:18 AM EST. Apple plans to equip its forthcoming iPhone Fold with Samsung-made Color Filter on Encapsulation (CoE) OLED, a design that omits the polarizing film. The change could yield a thinner panel and higher brightness without more power consumption, as the color filter sits on the encapsulation layer. The move is expected to roll out with the foldable iPhone as soon as late 2026, followed by the iPhone Air 2 in 2027, though the Air 2 release has reportedly been delayed due to weaker sales. Decision timing cited by industry sources places final choices by the third quarter of this year. Samsung is also applying CoE to its Galaxy lineup, including the S26 Ultra, where it uses the internal name OCF (On-Cell Film).

Nvidia bets on repeat year as AI frenzy sustains rally

January 9, 2026, 10:14 AM EST. At CES in Las Vegas, Nvidia Chief Executive Jensen Huang framed the year ahead as a race to the next frontier of AI. The Santa Clara company capped a breakthrough 2025 that lifted it to the top of global market capitalization. Nvidia reported a record $57 billion in revenue for the third quarter and said it had secured about $500 billion of orders for its AI chips through 2026. It has formed major partnerships, including with OpenAI and xAI, and has begun moving production of its Blackwell chips to the U.S. with facilities in Arizona and Texas. Analysts say the AI boom likely won't burst soon, and Nvidia should stay dominant in high-end chips even if growth moderates. The company employs over 36,000 people across 38 countries.

NVIDIA launches TensorRT Edge-LLM to speed LLM and VLM inference on automotive edge devices

January 9, 2026, 10:12 AM EST. TensorRT Edge-LLM is an open-source C++ framework to run large language models (LLMs) and multimodal vision-language models (VLMs) at the edge. It targets embedded automotive and robotics platforms, including NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Thor and Jetson Thor, prioritizing low latency, fixed resource use, offline operation, and production-grade reliability. The design features minimal dependencies and a lean footprint. Key capabilities include EAGLE-3 speculative decoding, NVFP4 quantization, and chunked prefill to improve real-time inference. The framework complements data-center tooling, with early adopters such as Bosch, ThunderSoft, and MediaTek demoing in-car AI at CES 2026. Bosch combines embedded ASR (automatic speech recognition) and TTS (text-to-speech) with LLM inference to power onboard assistants.

Panasonic bets on AI infrastructure, pivots EV-battery lines to data-center storage

January 9, 2026, 9:36 AM EST. Panasonic will position data-center infrastructure as its next growth engine, executives said at CES 2026. The Japanese company plans to divert part of its production lines from electric-vehicle batteries to power-storage systems that stabilize data-center operations. A display at Panasonic's booth showed an AI server in the entryway, underscoring the pivot toward AI-driven infrastructure. The shift widens Panasonic's portfolio as demand for resilient data centers grows. Kanoko Sakamoto reported from Las Vegas.

Meta signs nuclear energy deals to power Prometheus AI supercluster

January 9, 2026, 9:16 AM EST. Meta said it has reached agreements with Vistra, TerraPower and Oklo to supply power for its Prometheus supercluster at a data center in New Albany, Ohio. The deals, for which no financial terms were disclosed, aim to add about 6.6 gigawatts (GW) of capacity by 2035, a level that would exceed New Hampshire's demand. Meta will fund parts of Vistra's nuclear plants in Ohio and Pennsylvania, extending their lifespans. TerraPower and Oklo projects remain under development, with TerraPower facilities potentially generating power by 2032 and Prometheus expected online in 2026. Meta policy chief Joel Kaplan framed the moves as safeguarding U.S. AI leadership, while rivals also pursue nuclear-energy deals.

Judge says Musk's OpenAI suit can go to trial over nonprofit-to-for-profit shift

January 9, 2026, 9:10 AM EST. A US district judge in Oakland ruled that Elon Musk's lawsuit against OpenAI can go to a jury trial over claims its leaders violated the organisation's founding mission by shifting to a for-profit model. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers said there is enough evidence to support Musk's contention that OpenAI's original nonprofit structure would be preserved, creating disputed facts for a jury in a March trial. OpenAI, Sam Altman and Greg Brockman denied the allegations; Microsoft, also a defendant, urged dismissal. Musk seeks unspecified damages, calling OpenAI's gains "ill-gotten." The case also unfolds amid competition from xAI and its Grok. The judge flagged possible statute of limitations issues and said the jury would decide which claims survive.

Nvidia eyes another record year as AI boom sustains gains

January 9, 2026, 9:08 AM EST. Nvidia aims for another record year as the AI frenzy keeps a premium on high-end chips. The Santa Clara company vaulted to the world's most valuable by 2025 and remains the cornerstone of the AI supply chain. CEO Jensen Huang outlined a future of self-driving cars, robots and other intelligent machines at CES in Las Vegas, insisting the race to the next frontier is under way. Nvidia posted a third-quarter revenue of $57 billion, up 62% year over year, and said it has $500 billion in AI-chip orders through 2026. Analysts say the AI bubble is unlikely to burst soon, and Nvidia should stay dominant in high-end AI chips and related data centers with partners like OpenAI.

Musk OpenAI lawsuit heads to trial over nonprofit-for-profit switch, judge says

January 9, 2026, 9:06 AM EST. US district judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers said there is enough evidence for Elon Musk's claim that OpenAI pledged to keep the nonprofit mission but later shifted to a for-profit model. The March trial will let a jury decide disputed facts rather than issue a ruling. Musk seeks unspecified damages and calls the gains ill-gotten; Microsoft, a co-defendant, urged dismissal. OpenAI and its founders deny wrongdoing and describe Musk as a frustrated competitor seeking to slow a market leader. Musk has said he contributed about $38 million-roughly 60% of early funding-and provided guidance based on assurances the nonprofit status would endure. The case also covers a restructuring and Microsoft deals, with questions about the statute of limitations.

Archer to build next wave of aviation AI with NVIDIA IGX Thor at CES 2026

January 9, 2026, 9:04 AM EST. Archer Aviation announced at CES 2026 that it will develop and deploy the next generation of AI technologies for aviation using the NVIDIA IGX Thor platform. The company aims to debut the integration at its Hawthorne airport in central Los Angeles, a test bed for its planned LA air taxi network. Since early 2025, Archer has collaborated with NVIDIA to embed the safety-capable AI computing module into future aircraft programs, enabling real-time perception, decision-making and predictive operations. The focus areas are pilot safety and predictive awareness, seamless airspace integration and autonomy-ready flight controls. Archer CEO Adam Goldstein said the collaboration accelerates safer, smarter aircraft and modernized airspace interfaces.

Archer to Deploy NVIDIA IGX Thor AI for Aviation at CES 2026

January 9, 2026, 9:00 AM EST. Archer Aviation announced at CES 2026 it will develop and deploy next-generation AI for aviation using NVIDIA IGX Thor. The plan includes integrating IGX Thor into Archer's Midnight aircraft and basing at Hawthorne Municipal Airport in Los Angeles as the operational hub and test bed for its LA air-taxi network. The collaboration, ongoing since early 2025, aims to power three core areas: Enhancing Pilot Safety & Predictive Awareness; Seamless Airspace Integration; Autonomy-Ready Flight Controls. IGX Thor provides high-reliability, real-time onboard computing for safety-critical environments, supporting perception, decision-making and predictive operations. CEO Adam Goldstein said the partnership will reshape how aviation interfaces with airspace. Initial integration is underway, with broader uses across manufacturing, fleet operations and pilot training.

Fortune Tech: Investors weigh Netflix-Paramount bid in HBO Max showdown

January 9, 2026, 8:58 AM EST. Investors are weighing a binding $82.7 billion Netflix offer against Paramount's higher bid for HBO Max, Harry Potter, and Batman. Some Warner Bros. Discovery backers reportedly hesitate to back Netflix, while Paramount is ready to top it by roughly $25.7 billion, excluding breakup-fee terms. The two-week decision deadline squeezes governance and strategic fit. Separately, hackers linked to China targeted congressional staff emails connected to committees on China, foreign affairs, intelligence and armed services, in the Salt Typhoon operation. The intrusions were detected in December; it's unclear if email content was read. The U.S. has threatened sanctions. In defense tech, Palmer Luckey's Anduril backs Trump's defense-industry reforms that cap CEO salaries at $5 million until conditions are met.

Nvidia, suppliers roll out partnerships to rekindle self-driving push

January 9, 2026, 8:54 AM EST. At CES in Las Vegas, Nvidia unveiled its next-generation platform to power a raft of autonomous-driving partnerships, including a robotaxi alliance among Lucid Group, Nuro and Uber. AWS and Germany's Aumovio joined forces to scale commercial self-driving rollout. Bosch and Kodiak AI expanded autonomous-truck hardware and sensors manufacturing. Mercedes-Benz said its vehicles in the United States will soon offer a new advanced driver-assistance system that can operate autonomously on city streets under driver supervision, powered by Nvidia chips. Automakers prefer revenue-generating Level 2 driver-assistance over multi-billion-dollar Level 5 bets, citing high costs and uncertain demand. Industry officials warn against expecting rapid shifts toward full autonomy, while China accelerates its own push. Executives emphasize AI as a development accelerator, as regional competition intensifies.

Nvidia-led partnerships, automakers push AI to revive self-driving push

January 9, 2026, 8:40 AM EST. At CES in Las Vegas, Nvidia rolled out a next-generation platform to power a robotaxi alliance with Lucid, Nuro and Uber, underscoring a broader push by chipmakers and suppliers to revive autonomous driving through partnerships. AWS and German supplier Aumovio, and Bosch with Kodiak AI, announced deals to scale autonomous hardware and sensors. Mercedes-Benz said its U.S. rollout will include a new advanced driver-assistance system that can operate autonomously on city streets under supervision. Executives frame AI as a cost lifter, lowering development and validation needs, but automakers remain wary of the price tag and uncertain demand. Some, including GM and Ford, have dialed back in-house fully autonomous programs in favor of revenue-generating Level 2 driver assistance, while China accelerates its own push.

TCL RayNeo X3 Pro AI+AR smart glasses debut at CES 2026; dual-lens display, 6,000-nit brightness, $1,299

January 9, 2026, 8:38 AM EST. At CES 2026, TCL's RayNeo X3 Pro AI+AR smart glasses were shown in a hands-on session. The model carries a current price of US$1,299 (C$1,800), with a sale around US$1,099. The device uses a true dual-lens display, TCL says it reduces eye strain, versus single-lens designs. The display sits centered, slightly below eye level, keeping sightlines clear, and reaches up to 6,000 nits brightness. Navigation relies on right-side touch controls with swipes; a home gesture or button is optional, and a lift-to-select action is used to launch apps. On the right arm: a button for photos/videos and power; left arm provides media controls. Control is also possible via the RayNeo app or pairing with an Apple Watch. In-room Wi-Fi was weak during the test.

AI-powered Care Connect links Massachusetts patients to primary care amid doctor shortages

January 9, 2026, 8:36 AM EST. Massachusetts patients without a primary care physician face long waits, pushing Mass General Brigham to deploy Care Connect, an AI-assisted telehealth tool. Tammy MacDonald, 48, could not find in-person care after her doctor died; ten offices nearby would not take new patients, offering waits of 18 to 24 months. In September, MGB launched Care Connect to route patients to a telehealth visit after a brief chat with an AI agent. The system summarizes the chat and connects the patient with a doctor for a video visit. MacDonald secured an appointment within days. MGB says the tool handles common issues 24/7 and aims to ease access amid a shrinking Massachusetts PCP workforce. This story is produced with KFF Health News.

Four Google employees share how they pivoted to AI roles

January 9, 2026, 8:18 AM EST. Business Insider reports that four Google staffers describe their moves into AI roles. Each narrative highlights internal mobility, retraining, and practical on-the-job shifts rather than formal programs alone. The stories span software engineering to product management, showing how employees broaden AI skills, leverage mentors, and pursue side projects to qualify for AI teams. The piece underscores how large tech firms redeploy talent to meet rising AI demand, with implications for skill development, recruitment, and project timelines. Common threads include embracing experimentation, learning fast, and navigating internal barriers. Readers get concrete examples of career pivots within a single employer, illustrating a broader industry trend toward more specialized AI roles.

AI-driven DRAM squeeze lifts PC and smartphone prices, IDC warns

January 9, 2026, 8:16 AM EST. Global PC and smartphone prices are set to rise in 2026, driven by a DRAM memory crunch tied to AI data-center demand. IDC says prices could climb 4-8% worldwide, with some major vendors signaling increases of up to 20%. OpenAI, Microsoft and Google are buying billions of DRAM chips for AI infrastructure, prompting memory makers such as Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron to shift capacity to AI-grade DRAM. The result: tighter supply for standard memory used in PCs and phones, shrinking vendor margins and passing higher costs to consumers. Ironically, AI-focused PCs may take longer to gain traction if vendors trim memory to manage costs. Smartphone memory remains a price lever, though Apple and Samsung are relatively insulated due to long-term contracts. Tom's Hardware notes AMD has raised prices on high-end GPUs.

Donut Lab unveils production-ready solid-state EV battery at CES 2026

January 9, 2026, 7:54 AM EST. Donut Lab unveiled a production-ready all-solid-state battery for electric vehicles at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. The Helsinki startup says the Donut Battery delivers about 400Wh/kg energy density, reaches full charge in five minutes and shows far less degradation than lithium-ion cells. It uses solid electrolytes to remove flammable liquids, reducing the risk of thermal runaway. Donut Lab claims up to 100,000 charge cycles and says tests show capacity retention of more than 99% at −30°C and above 100°C. Verge Motorcycles will equip 2026 models starting Q1, with charging that delivers up to 60 km of range per minute and up to 600 km per charge on long-range versions. Esox Group is testing the battery for defense platforms; the company cites modular, geopolitically safe materials and configurable formats for cars or drones.

Samsung S95H tops CES 2026 TV lineup with brighter OLED, wireless option and artwork mode

January 9, 2026, 7:46 AM EST. Samsung's S95H, unveiled at CES 2026, is praised not for size but features. The TV offers a 30% brighter OLED panel, an optional wireless connectivity setup, and a mode to display static artwork without burn-in-addressing a common OLED limitation. Executives pitched the S95H as a strong alternative to Samsung's The Frame, delivering on image quality while keeping art-mode capability. In a show crowded with large screens, the S95H's blend of brightness, flexibility and practicality stood out.

Nvidia's $500 billion AI demand outlook won't be revised quarterly, Huang says at CES 2026

January 9, 2026, 7:40 AM EST. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang told CNBC at CES 2026 that the company's $500 billion AI demand outlook reflects orders on the books for 2025 and 2026, but noted that new developments could lift the figure. CFO Colette Kress said the outlook has already grown since Nvidia's October GTC. The demand covers Blackwell GPUs and the upcoming Vera Rubin platform, including the Rubin GPUs, Vera CPUs, NVLink 6, Spectrum-X, ConnectX-9 and BlueField-4 components. Customers include large cloud providers and AI developers; open-source models such as DeepSeek, Qwen and Meta's Llama are driving higher usage. A Microsoft-Nvidia-Anthropic tie-up with $15 billion investment underpins partnerships. Nvidia positions Rubin as a multi-chip, extreme codesign platform aimed at reducing bottlenecks for large AI workloads.

X limits Grok image editing to paying subscribers after deepfake backlash

January 9, 2026, 7:34 AM EST. Elon Musk's platform X has restricted Grok's image-editing function to paid subscribers after a public backlash over sexualised deepfakes. The change means non-paying users can still use Grok on its standalone app and site but cannot request edits on images posted on X. BBC News reported that some blue-tick subscribers appeared able to access the feature. Critics warned the move may limit abusive uses without addressing root causes. Government officials are pressing Ofcom to use its powers under the Online Safety Act to curb unlawful AI-generated imagery. Keir Starmer called the issue unlawful and vowed all options, including a potential ban, could be on the table.

Amazon Leo unveils gigabit-speed Ultra antenna, begins enterprise preview

January 9, 2026, 7:30 AM EST. Amazon Leo on Monday unveiled a gigabit-speed Ultra antenna as it moves from deployment toward commercial operations. The new hardware is designed to deliver gigabit connectivity to customers beyond traditional networks, including businesses, government bodies and other organizations in hard-to-reach or unreliable areas. The company said the approach aims to close critical connectivity gaps across industries such as energy, manufacturing, media and transportation. The announcement marks a step in the program's transition from deployment to commercial operations, with an enterprise preview kicking off ahead of broader rollout. Details on pricing, coverage and compatibility with existing satellite networks were not provided. Analysts say the move could expand the addressable market for low-Earth orbit connectivity, while regulatory and security considerations will shape adoption.

Galaxy Z TriFold turns heads at CES with 50% bigger tri-panel design

January 9, 2026, 7:28 AM EST. At CES, Samsung unveils the Galaxy Z TriFold, a folding phone that adds a third display panel and grows about 50% bigger than the Z Fold 7. The move signals a push toward larger, more capable foldables aimed at boosting multitasking and media use. Early hands-on impressions describe an audacious design and potential productivity gains, but questions linger on durability, pricing, and real-world usefulness. Samsung has not yet confirmed launch timing or markets. The device frames a shift toward bigger screens on pocketable form factors, with observers watching how software and ecosystems adapt to a tri-panel setup.

YouTube adds Shorts filter and renames advanced search options

January 9, 2026, 7:24 AM EST. YouTube is expanding its advanced search with new filters. Shorts can now be excluded as a content type, letting users skip three-minute-or-less clips when hunting for long-form explanations. The update arrives as part of a broader set of changes. The Sort By option becomes Prioritize, and View Count shifts to Popularity, reflecting a broader look at engagement metrics like watch time. Some filters were retired, including Upload Date – Last Hour and Sort by Rating. The company also references its AI-powered search improvements under Google Veo 3, though specifics remain light. The changes aim to improve precision for researchers and curious viewers, as discovery grows more nuanced on YouTube.

EFF's How to Fix the Internet 2025: Digital autonomy and collaborative fixes

January 9, 2026, 7:20 AM EST. In 2025, EFF's How to Fix the Internet delivered a sixth season focused on tools and technology of freedom. Cindy Cohn and Jason Kelley guided conversations with experts to map a path beyond surveillance capitalism, platform consolidation, and state censorship. Episodes highlighted digital autonomy, bodily autonomy online, and community-driven innovation. Kate Bertash joined to discuss turning personal data trails into citizen-powered protections; Molly White argued for a human-centered internet that invites broad participation; Isabela Fernandes of the Tor Project described collaborative tinkering as a route to resilient tech. The series mixed urgent analysis with practical proposals, underscoring that solutions require creativity, collaboration, and clear safeguards.

AI intensifies online trust crisis, experts warn

January 9, 2026, 7:18 AM EST. AI-fueled misinformation is eroding the public's ability to distinguish real from fake online. In early 2026, AI-generated images and videos circulated after the Trump Venezuela operation and a fatal ICE shooting, including attempts to remove a masked officer's identity. Platforms that reward engagement accelerate the spread by recycling old photos and clips to amplify emotion around breaking news. Researchers say the erosion is a trust default-people may believe what they see until they have reason to doubt. Jeff Hancock of the Stanford Social Media Lab notes the problem will persist in the short term as people struggle to trust digital content. Deepfakes have even surfaced in court and in viral political videos, underscoring a broader challenge.

Amazon presses AI leadership with Alexa+ and OpenAI cloud deal

January 9, 2026, 7:16 AM EST. Amazon is pursuing AI leadership through Alexa+, a limited-access chatbot site, and a wider push to rival ChatGPT and Google Gemini. The centerpiece is a large OpenAI cloud deal: AWS will power OpenAI for about $38 billion over seven years, making OpenAI a major AWS customer and potentially expanding Amazon's cloud share, which stood at 29% in Q3 2025. Microsoft's early backing of OpenAI had shifted dynamics, but the arrangement could tilt once again toward Amazon. The Information reported Amazon is in talks to invest at least $10 billion in OpenAI, which could grant OpenAI access to Trainium processors. Taken together, the moves press Amazon toward parity with Alphabet and Microsoft in AI ambitions.

CES 2026: Samsung's Micro RGB TVs and quantum-dot OLEDs lead early announcements

January 9, 2026, 7:06 AM EST. Samsung dominates early CES coverage with a push on Micro RGB backlights, claiming a wider color gamut and finer local dimming in LCD TVs. The standout is a 130-inch concept shown at the First Look event, powered by the Micro RGB AI Engine Pro with components like Color Booster Pro and HDR Pro, and HDR10+ Advanced support. Samsung says the Micro RGB range will scale from 55- to 100-inch sizes, all featuring next-gen AI-driven picture and sound. In OLED, Samsung's 2026 slate-S95H, S90H, S85H-uses quantum dot-enhanced OLED panels and improved glare handling. The show also features broader updates from LG and TCL, but Samsung's cross-category push defines the early buzz.

California man installs PPF on Tesla Model Y Performance, says it is worth it

January 9, 2026, 7:02 AM EST. California's DennisCW had a full front PPF installed on a newly delivered Tesla Model Y Performance at OC Tint Solutions, using a 3M film. With only about 100 miles on the clock, the protection covers the front fascia and light bar, guarding against sun damage, rocks, and road debris. He said the PPF keeps the black exterior bright while reducing wear and tear, making it worthwhile for three-to-four years of driving in varied conditions. The installer advised booking a PPF appointment soon after delivery to avoid early paint damage. While the upfront cost is notable, proponents say the film can save hundreds of dollars over time.

SDA taps four primes to build Tranche 3 missile-tracking satellites for PWSA in LEO

January 9, 2026, 6:56 AM EST. The U.S. Space Development Agency awarded contracts to four primes-L3Harris Technologies, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and Rocket Lab-to build the Tranche 3 Tracking Layer satellites for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) in low Earth orbit (LEO). Each vendor will deliver 18 satellites, with first launches slated for fiscal 2029. The awards advance SDA's spiral, rapid-fielding approach and widen the supplier base; Sierra Space was bumped after 15 bids. The Tranche 3 spacecraft will carry infrared sensors, optical communications terminals and Ka-band links, enabling persistent missile warning, tracking and defense payloads. Rocket Lab debuts as a missile-defense prime with an $805 million base contract; Lockheed Martin up to $1.1B, L3Harris $843M, Northrop Grumman $764M. The agency ties the effort to the Golden Dome architecture.

YouTube adds Shorts filter, launches 'Popularity' option and refines search filters

January 9, 2026, 6:54 AM EST. YouTube is refining its search filters to let users target content by format and popularity. The changes let you search for Shorts or Videos (longform) separately; a filter-less search currently mixes formats. The platform is dropping the Upload Date – Last Hour and Sort by Rating filters, citing poor performance and user complaints. Remaining presets include Today, This week, This Month, and This Year. A new Popularity filter replaces the old View count sort, using view count and other signals like watch time to rank results for a query. The Sort By menu has been renamed Prioritize to reflect improved utility.

Caterham to bring electric Project V to the U.S. with NACS port

January 9, 2026, 6:50 AM EST. Caterham, the tiny British maker known for the Lotus Seven, is bringing its electric two-door sports car, the Project V, to the United States. Debuting in Las Vegas at CES 2026, the car goes on sale in the U.S. next year. The production version features a rear 268-hp (200-kW) electric motor, a 55-kWh dual-module battery, a NACS charging port, and a WLTP range of 249 miles with a max 100 kW charge rate. The company aims to keep costs down by using off-the-shelf parts, including an e-motor from Yamaha and battery from Xing Mobility. Inside there is a small touchscreen and analog instruments; safety basics include ABS, traction control and airbags. Caterham's representative says America will be a priority, and the focus is on discharge time rather than charging time.

CES 2026: OLED smart purse hits $9,000 luxury price tag

January 9, 2026, 6:36 AM EST. At CES 2026, French designer Richard Peuty unveiled Infinity, an OLED-embedded handbag that fuses fashion with display tech. The leather purse turns a traditional accessory into a moving, glowing canvas. Entry-level Kickstarter tiers start around $800, but the Atelier Edition tops $9,000, aligning the product with luxury fashion. Production remains limited, with hand assembly in France and emphasis on longevity and repairability rather than fast fashion. The OLED panel is pitched as a way for the bag to evolve with trends rather than be replaced. Marketing frames the device as exclusive rather than practical, highlighting craftsmanship and European sourcing of full-grain leather. Critics call the concept stylish but highly niche for CES novelty.

Iran's internet blackout tests crypto workarounds as satellites and mesh networks emerge

January 9, 2026, 6:34 AM EST. Iranian authorities cut internet access as protests spread and the rial hits record lows. About seven million Iranians are crypto users, according to Statista, and TRM Labs tracked roughly $3.7 billion in crypto flows in 2025 up to July. Some observers, including Bitwise's Hunter Horsley, say Bitcoin could serve as a store of wealth amid turmoil. Without internet, crypto use is harder, but several technologies exist. Starlink satellite internet could restore access in affected areas, and Blockstream's satellite network can broadcast Bitcoin data without traditional connectivity. Jack Dorsey's Bitchat offers Bluetooth mesh messaging to relay transaction data, though on-chain verification still ultimately requires internet to confirm transactions. Other offline tools like Darkwire (long-range radio mesh) and Machankura use mobile phones to send Bitcoin without internet, though they face similar limitations.

Tesla AI head says some FSD reasoning features already shipped in 14.2 ahead of v14.3

January 9, 2026, 6:32 AM EST. Tesla's Head of AI, Ashok Elluswamy, says elements of the planned reasoning capabilities for Full Self-Driving have already shipped in the current 14.2 build. He noted the rollout covers decision points in navigation when encountering construction and in selecting parking options, with more reasoning to be released in Q1. Musk had teased that v14.3 would give FSD a more "sentient" feel, saying the car would consider where to park and how to route itself. Tesla's latest iteration, 14.2.2.2, remains the nearest version to that narrative but is still limited and supervised. The company positions the updates as steps toward broader, unsupervised FSD, while acknowledging ongoing refinement is needed and oversight remains essential.

FCC carves exemptions from foreign drone ban through 2026

January 9, 2026, 6:28 AM EST. WASHINGTON – The FCC issued a public notice carving out exemptions from its post-ban regime for certain imported drones and drone components through the end of 2026, following a second national security finding by the Department of War. The move narrows the scope of the broader foreign-drone crackdown, reaffirming that new approvals remain restricted while existing devices stay usable. The January 7 determination identified two categories that should not stay on the Covered List: uncrewed aircraft systems and components on the Blue UAS Cleared List, and those that qualify as domestic end products under Buy American. Firms with ties to U.S. government programs-Parrot, Teledyne FLIR, Neros Technologies, Wingtra, Auterion, ModalAI, Zepher Flight Labs, AeroVironment-could continue imports. Critical components from Nvidia, Panasonic, Sony, Samsung, ModalAI, ARK Electronics are also listed. The exemptions matter for operators and manufacturers navigating next steps.

Pimax Dream Air debuts at CES 2026 as sub-six-ounce PC VR headset with 4K per eye

January 9, 2026, 6:26 AM EST. At CES 2026, Pimax unveiled the Dream Air, a PC VR headset weighing less than six ounces. The device delivers 4K per eye, a 110-degree field of view, eye tracking for foveated rendering, and sensors for hand tracking, plus a split cable to route the cord down the back. Designers use pancake lenses that are concave to widen the view without bulk. The headset relies on Sony Micro-OLED panels and a 90Hz refresh rate, with a magnetic gasket and dual fans for cooling and comfort. In a test at Lime Rock Park in iRacing, the author praised vivid color, punchy sound from the headstrap speakers, and the sense PC VR could become more portable. CES 2026 live coverage continues.

Oxford Economics disputes AI-driven mass layoffs, says firms use AI to mask cuts

January 9, 2026, 6:18 AM EST. Oxford Economics argues that AI is not driving a structural rise in unemployment. In a January 7 briefing, the firm says firms aren't replacing workers with AI on a significant scale and that some companies are using AI as a cover for routine headcount reductions. The report frames the trend as investor relations-driven: attributing cuts to AI offers a more positive story than admitting weak demand or past hiring excess. Peter Cappelli of Wharton cautions that announcements of 'phantom layoffs' can be timed to boost stock reactions. Challenger, Gray & Christmas data show AI was cited for nearly 55,000 US job cuts in the first 11 months of 2025 – about 4.5% of total losses – far smaller than those tied to market conditions. AI-related losses remain relatively small in the broad labor market.

MiniMax surges on Hong Kong debut as Chinese AI listings intensify

January 9, 2026, 6:16 AM EST. MiniMax Group jumped as much as 90% on its first day of trading in Hong Kong, closing near HK$298 after an offer price of HK$165. The IPO raised HK$4.8 billion ($620 million), outpacing rival Zhipu AI, which rose about 13% on debut. Backed by Alibaba and Tencent, MiniMax develops large language models and AI apps such as chatbots, image generation and video synthesis. The company says funds will go to research and development. In the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2025, revenue rose about 174% to $53.4 million, but net loss reached $512 million as spending accelerates. The listing underscores China's push to fund AI growth amid U.S. export restrictions on chips.

Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth calls crucial Reality Labs all-hands meeting

January 9, 2026, 6:14 AM EST. Meta Platforms Inc. Chief Technology Officer Andrew Bosworth convened a crucial all-hands meeting at Reality Labs, the AR/VR unit. Sources familiar with the matter said Bosworth outlined the roadmap for the XR push, emphasizing cadence, accountability and longer-term ambition. The session occurred as Reality Labs contends with product delays and staffing reshuffles, with leadership signaling renewed focus on hardware development, software ecosystems and monetization strategies. Bosworth urged teams to align on milestones, prune nonessential features and move toward a more scalable platform. Meta did not provide additional comment beyond acknowledging the meeting.

Charter Communications' Spectrum Internet: Hype, Prices and the Stock in Play

January 9, 2026, 6:12 AM EST. Charter Communications' Spectrum internet has become a flashpoint in consumer and investor chatter. The company touts high speeds and bundled services, yet users report a mixed experience that varies by location. Promoted prices can look attractive, but bills often rise after the promo ends. Buyers should verify post-promo costs, capture the offer terms, and set reminders before price resets. Bundles containing internet, TV, and mobile lock in customers but may not deliver value for cord-cutters. The stock moves on the perception of growth versus churn and competitive pressure. As the debate widens on TikTok and review sites, analysts urge disciplined due diligence: compare local speeds, review contract terms, and weigh total ownership costs before signing.

Grok limits image generation to paying subscribers after outcry over sexualised AI imagery

January 9, 2026, 6:02 AM EST. Grok, Elon Musk's AI tool, has limited image generation to paying subscribers after a wave of outcry over sexually explicit and violent imagery. The move follows regulatory threats in the UK and elsewhere. The feature, updated in December, allowed users to remove clothing or place women in sexualised positions. X said image generation is now restricted to paying subscribers, with full account details stored by the platform to identify misuse. The Guardian reported cases of pornographic videos of women without consent and depictions of violence. Keir Starmer, the UK prime minister, demanded action, signaling Ofcom support for enforcement. X did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Grok blocks image generation for most users after sexual imagery backlash

January 9, 2026, 6:00 AM EST. Grok, Elon Musk's AI tool, has disabled image generation for the vast majority of users after an outcry over sexually explicit and violent imagery. The feature is now limited to paying subscribers. The move follows threats of fines and regulatory action in the UK and elsewhere, and reports that the tool was used to create nonconsensual sexual imagery. Guardian investigations cited pornographic videos and violent depictions of women. Keir Starmer, the UK prime minister, threatened strong action, saying Ofcom has support to act and calling the material disgraceful. X has been contacted for comment. The update follows late-December changes that had expanded access, triggering the backlash.

MiniMax surges in Hong Kong debut, signaling China's AI funding push

January 9, 2026, 5:56 AM EST. China-based AI startup MiniMax Group surged as much as 90% on its first day of trading in Hong Kong, underscoring Beijing's push to fund AI growth amid U.S. chip curbs. The IPO raised HK$4.8 billion ($620 million) and topped local rival Zhipu AI, which rose about 13% on its debut. MiniMax, backed by Alibaba and Tencent, develops large language models and AI applications such as chatbots, image generation and video synthesis. Proceeds will fund R&D. By 3 p.m., MiniMax traded near HK$298, up from the HK$165 offer price. The company reported revenue of $53.4 million for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2025, up about 174% year over year, but a net loss of $512 million, noting monetization remains nascent.

Garmin Instinct 2X Solar on sale at Amazon for $249.99 after discounts

January 9, 2026, 5:54 AM EST. Garmin's Instinct 2X Solar rugged smartwatch is on sale at Amazon for $249.99, down from $299.99 (about 17%). The solar-powered model is built to endure harsh outdoor use, meeting U.S. military standards for thermal, shock and water resistance. It charges via a solar ring around the display or USB-C, extending battery life for trips from camping to training camps. The watch includes GPS, wrist-based heart rate, and multi-sport support (running, cycling, hiking, strength training), with data on distance, speed, altitude and recovery. It also logs routes with breadcrumb trails for navigation without a phone. A durable, long-lasting option for outdoor fitness, the Instinct 2X Solar is on sale now at Amazon.

Garmin Instinct 2X Solar hits record low as extra discounts stack on Grade-A refurbished units

January 9, 2026, 5:40 AM EST. Garmin's rugged Instinct 2X Solar is on sale at Amazon, trading a record-low price for a Grade-A refurbished model. The solar-powered smartwatch carries military-grade durability, water and shock resistance, and a USB-C recharge option in addition to sunlight charging that extends battery life. It includes built-in GPS, heart-rate monitoring, and multi-sport support for running, cycling and hiking, plus sleep and recovery tracking. The watch also logs routes with breadcrumb trails to aid navigation in remote terrain, reducing phone dependence on outdoor adventures. The current price is $249.99, down from $299.99, a $50 saving or about 17%, making it a budget-friendly option for long workouts and exploration.

Garmin Instinct 2X Solar hits record low as discounts stack on Amazon

January 9, 2026, 5:30 AM EST. Garmin's rugged Instinct 2X Solar smartwatch is on sale at Amazon for $249.99, down from $299.99, a 17% cut. The solar-powered model is designed to withstand harsh conditions and meets U.S. military standards for thermal, shock and water resistance. It includes built-in GPS, heart-rate monitoring, and multi-sport support for running, cycling and hiking, plus breadcrumb navigation to help explorers find their way. The solar ring extends battery life, reducing the need for nightly charges during extended trips. The watch also tracks sleep and recovery data to gauge training progress. The price cut follows a broader push to clear stock, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts seeking durability, long battery life, and reliable navigation in demanding environments.

Five essential Android apps users swear by, starting with MyRadar

January 9, 2026, 5:14 AM EST. Android has matured, and consumers still hunt for standout tools. The piece surveys five essential apps that go beyond stock options. It spotlights MyRadar, a stand-alone weather app praised for its full-screen radar, multiple map views, and optional premium layers. The app comes in two flavors: a free version with in-app purchases to remove ads and unlock extras, and a Pro version with ads already removed. MyRadar is used by more than ten million users who rely on its customizable weather displays, from satellite and temperature maps to different weather stations, with some features available for about $3.99 a month through a premium subscription.

Grok AI and non-consensual AI-generated nudity: UK law and platform duties

January 9, 2026, 5:10 AM EST. UK law tackles non-consensual intimate images under the Sexual Offences Act, which now covers AI-generated content; however, experts say a prompt like 'bikini' may not be fully covered, notes Clare McGlynn of Durham University. The Online Safety Act requires platforms to assess risks of intimate image abuse, act to reduce exposure and remove content quickly; Ofcom has warned X and xAI and could fine up to 10% of global revenue for non-compliance. Brandon Tyler's five-year sentence for posting deepfake pornography underscored enforcement. Nudifying apps remain regulated by broader measures, but the government has not yet banned the apps themselves. In England and Wales, the Data (Use and Access) Act bans creation or procurement of such images; regulators are weighing age checks for Grok to prevent under-18 access.

Managing IoT Risks: Top Eleven Threats and Mitigations

January 9, 2026, 5:08 AM EST. Security teams must map the IoT risk landscape in a practical, deadline-driven way. The article outlines the top eleven threats accompanying connected devices and the steps to close the gate. From default passwords that fuel botnets to unknown and unmanaged assets that expand the attack surface, visibility is non-negotiable. It warns that poor network segmentation lets compromises hop from light switches to building management systems. Legacy systems remain unpatched entry points, and poor physical security can bypass digital defenses. It also flags data exfiltration and privacy risks as devices stream sensitive information. Concrete mitigations include enforcing strong credentials, asset discovery, network zoning, retirement or patching of old tech, securing physical access, and auditing data flows.

ParaZero DefendAir demonstrates 100% interception in live field tests against FPV kamikaze and DJI FlyCart drones

January 9, 2026, 5:06 AM EST. ParaZero said its DefendAir Counter-UAS demonstrated 100% interception in live field demonstrations against FPV kamikaze drones and DJI FlyCart heavy-lift smuggling drones. The trials used a patented net-based, non-explosive interception to neutralize both platforms with complete reliability, building on prior tests against fast-moving multirotor threats. FPV drones are low-cost and highly maneuverable; DefendAir's net-launching mechanism intercepted them in flight, offering a soft-kill option. In a separate demo, a FlyCart was captured in flight with its cargo intact and no collateral damage, a benefit for ports and borders. CEO Ariel Alon said security forces need reliable, scalable, safe solutions. DefendAir remains modular-handheld, turret, and drone-mounted-and designed to integrate with detection, radar, and command systems.

TCL unveils SQD Mini-LED X11L, RGB RM9L in 2026 TV lineup at CES

January 9, 2026, 5:00 AM EST. As CES unfolds, TCL is pushing its TV lineup with a new SQD Mini-LED tier. The crown jewel is the X11L SQD Mini-LED, advertised with up to 20,000 local dimming zones, 10,000 nits peak brightness and 100% BT.2020 color coverage. TCL says the model uses Super QLED Crystals to boost color through quantum dots. The company will also ship QM8L and QM7L SQD Mini-LED sets, plus the RM9L RGB Mini-LED TV, which borrows the X11L UltraColor filter. Prices: X11L 85-inch $7,999; 98-inch $9,999; 75-inch later. Dolby Vision 2 Max, TSR AI processor, HDR10/ HDR10+ and HLG support. Deep Color System reduces blooming.

Apple CEO Tim Cook's 2025 pay holds steady at about $74.3 million, proxy shows

January 9, 2026, 4:56 AM EST. Apple's annual proxy highlights Tim Cook's total compensation at roughly $74.3 million in 2025, essentially flat from 2024, with a modest decline of about $300,000. The breakdown: a $3 million base salary and about $57.5 million in a stock award, plus bonuses to make up the rest. Other senior executives totaled around $27 million, though CFO Kevan Parekh earned $22.5 million. Apple's stock rose only modestly as it faced a tougher year than Nvidia, aided by Cook's forecast of a strong Q4. The company shifted manufacturing toward India to reduce tariff exposure. Speculation about a successor persists, with reports naming John Ternus as a potential frontrunner.

Pixel 9 gains AirDrop-style Quick Share in Android Canary

January 9, 2026, 4:54 AM EST. Google has added system files for AirDrop-style sharing via Quick Share to the Pixel 9 series in the latest Android Canary build, a sign cross-platform transfers could expand beyond the Pixel 10. The update excludes the Pixel 9a and Pixel 8 family, indicating older devices aren't yet supported. Observers caution that Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 likely lack the groundwork, though Google has given no firm timeline. We have not tested real transfers between a Pixel 9 and an iPhone yet. Still, the presence of these components strongly suggests ongoing work to broaden AirDrop-style sharing. Any rollout could arrive with Android 16 QPR3 or Android 17, as Google continues to iterate on cross-platform sharing.

Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance comes to Nintendo Classics

January 9, 2026, 4:52 AM EST. The tactical RPG Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance lands on Nintendo Classics. Originally released for the Nintendo GameCube in 2005, it features fully-voiced cutscenes and 3D maps. The series' brutal permadeath mechanic remains, where units fallen in battle do not return. Set on the continent of Tellius, two races-beorc and the half-human laguz-clash as shadows rise. Follow Ike and a colorful cast as a grand drama unfolds amid growing darkness. Nintendo Switch Online membership is required for online features; terms apply.

Colorado church uses AI platform to deepen congregation connection

January 9, 2026, 4:38 AM EST. Colorado's One City Church in Littleton is using Gloo's AI platform to deepen ministry and reach more people. The Boulder-based company provides tech to churches and nonprofits; since 2013, it claims more than 140,000 users, and it went public in late 2025. Co-Pastor Jessie Davis says the tool can create bible studies, kid's ministry content, and five-day devotionals from sermon transcripts, with edits before posting online. Rebecca Kelly, Gloo's chief growth officer, notes AI can assist pastors with sermon prep and administrative tasks, while maintaining guardrails aligned with faith and values. Leaders say the system saves time, improves efficiency, and lets staff focus on human connections with congregants.

BYD overtakes Tesla as 2025's top EV seller

January 9, 2026, 4:34 AM EST. BYD has overtaken Tesla as the world's largest seller of electric vehicles in 2025, according to data disclosed by both companies. BYD sold 2.26 million EVs, up about 28% from 2024, while Tesla delivered 1.6 million, down 8.6% for the year-the steepest annual decline in the company's history. The shift comes even as BYD's cars remain unavailable in the United States, the market that fuels almost half of Tesla's revenue. In Q4, Tesla deliveries dropped 15.6% year over year. Analysts expect weak US EV demand to persist into late 2025. Tesla responded by cutting some prices and rolling out cheaper variants of the Model 3 and Model Y, though they travel shorter distances and omit some features. BYD faces fierce price competition in China and is expanding overseas amid tariff scrutiny.

Dubious AI uses at CES 2026 span hair clippers, sleep meds, modular vacuums

January 9, 2026, 4:30 AM EST. At CES 2026, AI permeates gadgets, but not all claims deserve the label. The Glyde smart hair clippers pair a real-time AI coach with adjustable cut depth, prompting questions about trusting stylistic guidance from a device. SleepQ's AI-upgraded pharmacotherapy uses smartwatch data to time when you take a pill, with plans to broaden to anxiety meds and other drugs, raising safety and ethics questions. Deglace's Fraction vacuum uses AI to optimize suction and predict failures, with modular upgrades via in-app parts orders, drawing skepticism about ongoing parts costs. The booth highlights how AI lands in unexpected niches-hair care, pills, and home appliances-often with fuzzy or questionable rationales for intelligence.

OneXPlayer debuts 'Super X' with AMD Strix Halo, Intel Panther Lake in CES 2026 showcase

January 9, 2026, 4:28 AM EST. During CES 2026, OneXPlayer showed the OneXPlayer Super X gaming tablet powered by AMD's Strix Halo APUs, with a planned option for the Panther Lake Core Ultra X7 358H CPU and Arc B390 iGPU from Intel. The company demonstrated compatibility with the Frost Bay external liquid cooling box, designed for a 120 W TDP and a 120 mm radiator feeding a 33 dB system. The kit supports the OneXFly handheld and promises easy refilling of the cooling reservoir. The booth also displayed the OneXFly and highlighted claims of near-competitive GPU performance, while emphasizing mobile efficiency and quiet operation as essential for portable gaming. TechPowerUp covered hands-on observations at the show.

Intel's Panther Lake Core Ultra chips ready for prime time, CES reveals Core Ultra Series 3 lineup

January 9, 2026, 4:10 AM EST. At CES, Intel unveiled the launch lineup for the Core Ultra Series 3 processors, built on a 2nm 18A process. Codenamed Panther Lake, the chips target midrange to high-end AI laptops and will launch this month. The announcement marks Intel's push to bring AI-capable silicon to portable PCs with a smaller, more power-efficient node.

AI could optimize the power grid, MIT expert says

January 9, 2026, 4:00 AM EST. MIT's Priya Donti explains how AI could sharpen power-grid optimization. The aim is to keep supply and demand in balance in real time amid uncertainty on demand, fuel costs, and weather-driven renewable output. AI can fuse historical and real-time data to forecast how much renewable energy will be available and to solve complex trade-offs: which generators to run, how much to produce, when to charge or discharge batteries, and how to flex loads. These optimization tasks are computationally heavy, so operators rely on approximations that can be inaccurate, a problem as renewables grow. Better AI methods could push toward a cleaner, more reliable grid, though challenges remain in scaling, risk, and real-world deployment.

Tesla's cheapest Model 3 lands in the UK at £37,990

January 9, 2026, 3:58 AM EST. Tesla has launched a UK-specific entry version of the Model 3, the Standard, priced from £37,990 and replacing the Rear-Wheel Drive model. The car mirrors the Model Y Standard's affordability approach, with a top speed of 110 mph, 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds, and a claimed range of 332 miles. It sits in insurance group 32, the lowest yet for a Tesla sold in Britain. UK tweaks include standard 18-inch Photon alloy wheels and a full glass roof, a contrast to the Y Standard. Inside, features such as remote access, trip planning with real-time Supercharger data, and standard Dog Mode and Sentry Mode remain; boot space is 594 litres with five seats. Other trims include Long Range and Performance.

AI deepfakes push victims into jail as evidence goes unchecked

January 9, 2026, 3:48 AM EST. Melissa Sims says her ex-boyfriend used AI-generated texts to frame her, landing her in a Florida jail for a bond violation after she called police during an argument. The texts disparaged him and were not verified, prosecutors later dropped the bond violation, and she went to trial on a battery charge eight months after the initial incident. Judges and experts warn that AI-generated deepfakes-texts, video and images-pose a growing risk to the justice system, with detection tools lagging behind. Drexel's Rob D'Ovidio notes the difficulty of spotting synthetic material; he demonstrated with an AI-generated photo and several detectors giving divergent results. Officials urge a framework and more due diligence before charging, while Sims' case shows the real-world harms of unverified evidence.

Apple's macOS Tahoe and iPadOS 26.2 bring Wi-Fi 6E 160MHz boost and security updates

January 9, 2026, 3:46 AM EST. Apple's December updates for iPadOS 26.2 and macOS Tahoe 26.2 quietly unlock a Wi-Fi 6E boost: on 5GHz networks, devices can use a 160MHz channel, doubling the previous limit and matching what's available on 6GHz where supported. Supported hardware includes iPad Pro M2+, iPad Air M2+, iPad mini A17 Pro, MacBook Pro M2 (Pro/Max), MacBook Air M3, iMac M3, Mac mini M2 and Mac Studio M2 variants; standard iPad models and Mac Pro stay behind. iPhone 16/17 and iPhone 15 Pro already support the higher bandwidth. The updates also add features like macOS Tahoe's Edge Light and new AI features for Mac Studio, plus critical WebKit zero-day security fixes in iPadOS. To update, use Settings > General > Software Update on iPad or System Settings > General > Software Update on Mac.

IXI's autofocusing glasses near-ready to replace multifocal lenses

January 9, 2026, 3:44 AM EST. IXI is pushing autofocusing glasses designed for age-related farsightedness. In Las Vegas, the startup showed a 22-gram prototype frame and working lenses that automatically switch prescriptions as the eye shifts focus. The system uses eye tracking with infrared LEDs and photodiodes around the lens edge, not a camera, to monitor movement, blinking and gaze. It draws about 4 milliwatts of power and stores most electronics-memory, sensors and driving circuitry-in the front frame and near the hinge. A battery the size of AirPods sits in the arms; charging is via a port in the left hinge, so the glasses can't be worn while charging. IXI targets a full day of use with a discreet, normal appearance.

Nvidia's Alpameo and the autonomous-driving race: reasoning-based AI vs end-to-end neural nets

January 9, 2026, 3:42 AM EST. Nvidia unveiled Alpameo, a reasoning layer for its autonomous-driving stack, at CES, arguing it lets the car explain its decisions. Proponents say it improves handling of edge cases, such as a traffic signal being out, by showing the system's logic. Tesla relies on an end-to-end neural network trained on millions of hours of video, a black box that operators cannot inspect in detail. Elon Musk said Tesla has its own reasoning, but details remain opaque. The debate pits a transparent, reasoning-based approach against a leaner, perception-first design. Industry observers see two paths: high-compute systems that tackle rare scenarios, versus scalable, lower-cost architectures that prioritize speed and breadth.

Dell, HP and Lenovo push repair-friendly laptops to counter Apple's slimming trend

January 9, 2026, 3:28 AM EST. Dell, HP and Lenovo are signaling a different path from Apple by designing laptops that are easier to repair or upgrade. The trio's models let users swap batteries, keyboards, RAM and storage, extending lifespans and reducing waste. The shift follows Apple's push for thinner MacBooks with soldered RAM and storage and earlier butterfly keyboard problems. CNET reports that serviceability could reshape product cycles, even as Apple pursues thinner form factors and OLED displays. The move echoes MSI's service-friendly gaming laptops. The question remains whether Apple will adjust its design philosophy to balance form and function.

OnePlus 15 faster than Galaxy S25 Ultra, $300 cheaper with Best Buy deal

January 9, 2026, 3:26 AM EST. Best Buy has stocked the OnePlus 15 in the United States with a limited-time deal: a free $100 gift card at purchase, plus up to $600 in trade-in credit. Availability covers both 512GB and 256GB models; the latter is available via Amazon. The OnePlus 15 ships with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, IP69K durability, and a 6.78-inch, 165Hz flat OLED display, along with a 7,300mAh battery claimed to last up to three days. Camera tech is competitive with Samsung and Google. In comparisons with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, OnePlus cites faster performance but fewer OS upgrades (six years vs seven) and less emphasis on AI features. The Galaxy adds a built-in stylus, larger screen, and arguably more versatile cameras. Price and ecosystem will decide.

Dell, HP, Lenovo push repair-friendly laptops as Apple leans thinner

January 9, 2026, 3:24 AM EST. Apple continues to push extreme thinness for MacBooks, a path that has drawn criticism over repairability and upgradability since the 2016 MacBook Pro. Rumors point to a 2026 model with an OLED screen and possibly a touchscreen, while the company also loosened its stance on keyboards after the original butterfly era. In contrast, Dell, HP and Lenovo have unveiled designs that make it easier to repair or replace components-batteries, keyboards, RAM, and storage-to extend device lifespans. The approach follows a broader industry push for serviceability, echoed by MSI's upgradable gaming laptops. Analysts say the tension between ultra-slim design and long-term usability remains, with questions about whether Apple should follow the PC brands or continue prioritizing minimal profiles.

Vantrue P2 dash cam debuts world-first thermal imaging and 6.25-inch touchscreen

January 9, 2026, 3:22 AM EST. Vantrue unveils a world-first dash cam with a thermal imaging camera. The Vantrue P2 (Pilot 2) detects heat signatures to spot pedestrians, animals and obstacles up to about 200 feet away, useful in darkness, fog or rain. The kit includes a 6.25-inch high-brightness touchscreen to monitor the thermal feed and drives with built-in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support for smart-cockpit features. A HUD and fatigue alert add situational cues. The system pairs a front+cabin+rear camera array. The front and rear use Sony STARVIS 2 IMX675 sensors at 2K (1440p); cabin uses IMX662 at 1080p. All three support HDR. Wi-Fi 6 enables fast video transfer; microSD cards up to 1TB are supported. 24/7 smart parking requires a hardwire kit. Pricing and availability pending.

Powering the AI race: US and China weigh energy bets amid competition

January 9, 2026, 3:18 AM EST. Four authors from the Global China project examine how rising energy demand from AI could reshape the US-China tech rivalry. The United States retains an edge in cutting-edge AI chips, but China holds a broader energy advantage that could tilt compute toward Beijing. US data centers may need as much as 426 TWh by 2030, while China could reach about 277 TWh, according to IEA projections. China already generates more than twice US electricity and has grown power output around 6% annually, with more than half of that from clean energy such as wind, solar and hydropower. Data centers now demand up to a gigawatt per facility, stressing grids and shaping where AI gains occur. The debate covers whether Washington should embrace or restrict Chinese investment in American clean energy tech, and which regions will dominate the AI race.

Vantrue unveils world-first dash cam with thermal imaging and 6.25-inch touchscreen

January 9, 2026, 3:08 AM EST. Vantrue has unveiled the first dash cam to integrate a thermal imaging camera. The Vantrue P2 records heat signatures to spot pedestrians, animals and obstacles up to 200 feet away, useful in darkness, fog or rain. The kit adds a 6.25-inch high-brightness touchscreen for monitoring the thermal feed, plus built-in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support and a HUD that displays alerts. The system combines front, cabin and rear cameras: front and rear use Sony STARVIS 2 IMX675 sensors at 1440p with HDR, cabin uses IMX662 at 1080p. Data moves over Wi-Fi 6, microSD up to 1TB, and 24/7 smart parking monitoring requires a hardwire kit. Availability and price pending.

Energy demand fuels the AI race: US vs. China

January 9, 2026, 3:04 AM EST. Artificial intelligence is driving a surge in electricity use in the United States and China. The race hinges on expanding power generation to fuel AI compute, especially through large data centers. The United States holds an edge in advanced semiconductors but faces an energy bottleneck as data centers draw power. The IEA projects US electricity demand for data centers to reach about 426 TWh by 2030, roughly 9% of total consumption. China's demand could reach roughly 277 TWh, supported by a larger grid and rapid growth in clean energy sources. The discussion extends to whether the United States should welcome or restrict Chinese investment in American clean energy technology and manufacturing. Regional energy partnerships and supply chains will shape the wider AI race.

Leaked test shows Galaxy S26 Ultra's 60W charging hits 75% in 30 minutes

January 9, 2026, 3:00 AM EST. Internal testing by Ice Universe suggests the Galaxy S26 Ultra with a 60W charger can move from 0% to about 75% in 30 minutes under laboratory conditions. The gain is a 15W bump over the S25 Ultra, whose 30-minute charge reached about 72% in a previous review. Reports vary on the Ultra's capacity, with rumors of 5200mAh or potentially 5000mAh. Samsung has launched a new 60W charger in preparation for the lineup, and chatter points to a wireless upgrade to 25W plus magnetic cases. The 60W speed would be exclusive to the Ultra; the S26 and S26+ are expected to stay at 25W and 45W, respectively. All details remain unofficial.

Leaked test shows Galaxy S26 Ultra 60W charging hits 75% in 30 minutes

January 9, 2026, 2:58 AM EST. Internal tests cited by Ice Universe indicate the Galaxy S26 Ultra with a new 60W charger reaches about 75% in 30 minutes under laboratory conditions. That figure comes despite a 15W increase over the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which delivered about 72% in the same window in our review. Rumors persist about battery capacity: the Ultra may run up to 5,200mAh, though some reports keep it at 5,000mAh. Samsung has launched a 60W charger in anticipation of the flagship, with talk of a wireless upgrade to 25W and magnetic cases. The 60W boost is said to apply only to the Ultra; the S26 and S26+ would stay at 25W and 45W, respectively. Note: leaks and lab results can differ from final specs.

Pixel 9 series poised to gain AirDrop-style Quick Share support

January 9, 2026, 2:54 AM EST. Google has moved toward bringing AirDrop-style Quick Share to the Pixel 9 family. The feature began as a Pixel 10 exclusive and worked well, independent of Apple. In latest Android Canary builds, the same system files used on Pixel 10 to enable AirDrop have appeared on Pixel 9 devices (Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold), while Pixel 9a remains excluded. The files surfaced in Canary build ZP11.251212.007, signaling active work, but the actual AirDrop transfer isn't enabled yet on Pixel 9. Google appears to be paving the way for AirDrop-style transfers across the Pixel 9 line, though no date is given.

Xbox January Developer Direct to Feature Fable, Forza Horizon 6, and Beast of Reincarnation

January 9, 2026, 2:48 AM EST. Xbox will air a Developer Direct showcase on January 22 at 10 a.m. PT/1 p.m. ET, spotlighting three upcoming titles. Playground Games' Fable will receive the first extended look, while Forza Horizon 6 delivers its debut gameplay set in Japan. Game Freak's Beast of Reincarnation will also be featured, with details on protagonist Emma's plant-manipulation abilities and gameplay with her canine companion Koo. Xbox describes the event, styled as Developer_Direct, as a chance for direct insights from the developers. The company has used these showcases to surprise viewers in the past, such as Hi-Fi Rush sneaking in during the 2023 edition. Fans of these studios can expect new gameplay footage and fresh details from the developers.

Some quantum computers may require more power than supercomputers

January 9, 2026, 2:44 AM EST. Quantum computers may require more power than the world's fastest supercomputers, depending on design choices. Most existing machines have fewer than a thousand qubits, the basic units of quantum information, and they suffer from errors. To be genuinely useful, researchers say, they must become FTQCs with many more qubits and robust error correction. At the Q2B Silicon Valley conference, Olivier Ezratty of the Quantum Energy Initiative warned that several FTQC designs scaled to about 4000 logical qubits could consume more energy than today's top systems. The LLNL's El Capitan supercomputer runs at roughly 20 megawatts. Ezratty's estimates place some FTQC designs at up to 200 megawatts, though others could stay under 1 megawatt. Cooling needs and other hardware choices largely drive the variance.

Leak hints Galaxy S26 Ultra charging could hit 60W, 0-75% in 30 minutes

January 9, 2026, 2:42 AM EST. A leak suggests the Galaxy S26 Ultra could finally push charging speeds higher. The chatter centers on a claim that the device, potentially supporting 60W wired charging, hits 0-75% in 30 minutes in what is described as official, controlled tests. That environment is different from real-world use, where voltage, temperature and other factors can slow charging. The report aligns with earlier signs-Samsung's site briefly listed a 60W adapter-but Samsung has not confirmed. Industry chatter cites Ice Universe as the source of the claim, noting the figure may not reflect day-to-day charging in normal conditions. If true, the upgrade would top the S25 Ultra's 45W rate and expand the phone's idle-to-full recharging speed in practice.

Punkt unveils MC03 privacy-focused smartphone at CES

January 9, 2026, 2:40 AM EST. Swiss minimal phone maker Punkt returns with the MC03, a privacy-focused touchscreen that follows 2023's MC02. The device keeps Punkt's privacy-first ethos, running the AphyOS fork of Android Open Source Project. The UI adds a Light Phone-style shortcut row. Data are split into The Vault, a vetted, secure enclave for privacy-focused apps (including Proton's suite), and Wild Web, which lets users install any Android app. Ledger provides granular permission controls to curb data exposure. Hardware is modest but solid: OLED display at 120Hz, removable 5,200mAh battery, 64MP camera, IP68 rating. European shipments begin this month; price is €699 / CHF699 / £610. Like prior models, MC03 uses a subscription model-one year included, then €9.99/CHF9.99/£8.99 per month, with multi-year plans saving up to 60%.

CES 2026: Dual-screen and rollable laptops hint at the future, led by Asus Zephyrus Duo and Lenovo Legion Pro Rollable

January 9, 2026, 2:36 AM EST. At CES 2026, laptops lean toward bold form factors. The piece spotlights the Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo-a gaming laptop with two full-size OLED displays, including a wide bottom panel and a 120Hz refresh rate-merging gaming power with multitasking. It notes tradeoffs: higher price and potentially lower performance compared to the standard Zephyrus G16. It also highlights Lenovo Legion Pro Rollable concept, which extends the screen from 16 to 24 inches, offering immersion and multitasking. Yet the concept remains rough-noisy motors, size-changing resolution quirks, and a lid panel gap. The piece cues upcoming Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm chips in 2026 and mentions other brands like Asus, Lenovo, Dell, MSI, Acer, HP, all courting new designs. The future holds more dual-screen and rollable laptops, if these ideas mature.

Portugal inks Innospace rocket deal for European launches at Santa Maria

January 9, 2026, 2:32 AM EST. According to ECO, a contract with the Atlantic Spaceport Consortium runs through 2030. The first rocket is expected to launch by the end of 2026, with regular launches planned at the Malbusca launch centre. Bruno Carvalho of the Atlantic Spaceport Consortium framed the deal as advancing an open spaceport and praised Innospace's trust. The Malbusca site is set to host Europe's first orbital flights from Santa Maria, while Innospace gains priority access to pads in the Azores, Brazil and Australia for a global launch network. Innospace's founder Soojong Kim said the arrangement connects launch sites across South America, Oceania and Europe to offer flexible mission trajectories. Portugal's Space Agency chief Ricardo Conde called it a vote of international confidence and noted a €15 million investment linked to ESA programmes. Santa Maria will host the Santa Maria Space Technology Centre and Space Rider's landing site.

RayNeo Air 4 Pro HDR10 AR glasses deliver cinema-like visuals at CES 2026

January 9, 2026, 2:28 AM EST. Tom's Guide, reporting from CES 2026, says RayNeo's Air 4 Pro adds HDR10 support to its AR glasses, promising cinema-like visuals. Weighing 2.6 ounces, they are lighter than the Air 3S Pro, with a 0.6-inch Micro-OLED display that makes games feel like a TV. The unit reaches about 1,200 nits of brightness and runs at up to 120Hz, though some rivals post higher refresh rates. HDR10 tuning makes colors and contrast look more natural, delivering up to a 200-inch personal display for PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck and more via the Joydock accessory. Priced at $299 and shipping January 25, the Air 4 Pro pairs Bang & Olufsen speakers and aims to stand out in CES's crowded smart glasses space.

iOS 26 adoption lags after launch, data show slower uptake

January 9, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. New adoption data suggest iOS 26 is slower to spread than recent releases. StatCounter (via Cult of Mac) shows only about 15-16% of active iPhones running any iOS 26 version in January 2026. Breakdown: iOS 26.1 about 10.6%, iOS 26.2 about 4.6%, and iOS 26.0 roughly 1.1%. In contrast, more than 60% remain on iOS 18, with iOS 18.7 and iOS 18.6 accounting for the majority. The trend contrasts with January 2025 (63% on iOS 18) after release and earlier rollouts (iOS 17 ~54% by Jan 2024, iOS 16 >60% by Jan 2023). Analysts say early uptake is lower than recent post-release windows. MacRumors data show 89.3% on iOS 18 in Jan last year vs 25.7% on iOS 26 this year. Apple has not released official numbers. The Liquid Glass redesign and continued security updates may damp urgency.

Honor Magic 8 Pro moves toward flagship status with standout camera

January 9, 2026, 2:18 AM EST. Honor's Magic 8 Pro aims for flagship status with a standout camera system. Its triple rear sensors center on a 50MP main (f/1.6), a 50MP ultrawide, and a 200MP telephoto (f/2.6, 3.7x), delivering strong dynamic range, accurate colors, and low noise across lighting conditions. The telephoto's fast aperture helps subject isolation and natural depth of field, producing shots closer to larger cameras. Battery life runs about two days, and performance is near flagship level. Priced at £1,099.99 ($1,500), it positions against iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S25 Ultra, with similar rivals from Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo. The phone's design is middling and the AI button lacks customization. Overall, it's the closest Honor has come to best-in-class, especially for photography-minded buyers in markets where it's available.

Gmail adds AI writing and inbox insights powered by Gemini 3

January 9, 2026, 2:14 AM EST. Google on Thursday unveiled new AI features for Gmail, aiming to refresh the 22-year-old service with generation-based writing and inbox insights. The rollout uses Alphabet's Gemini 3 model and will begin in English in the U.S. Some features are free; others require G1 Ultra or Pro subscriptions. The tools include Help Me Write, which analyzes past emails to mimic user style and suggest responses, and AI Overview, which sums email threads and flags takeaways. Paid subscribers gain a natural-language query plus a dedicated chatbot in the Gmail search bar. A test run will debut AI Inbox to surface to-do lists, while Catch me up reminders track events and changes. Google stresses user control: opt-out options exist, though privacy concerns persist around data used to train models.

Google adds Gemini AI to Gmail by default, with an option to disable

January 9, 2026, 2:04 AM EST. Google is integrating Gemini AI into Gmail, with AI Overviews, Help Me Write and new Suggested Replies enabled by default for all users, including free accounts. The company says the features summarize long threads and tailor responses, echoing 'search' style AI benefits. A natural-language inbox search and AI proofreading stay behind paywalls for Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers. Help Me Write remains available to everyone; Smart Replies evolve into Suggested Replies that reflect a user's writing style. An 'AI Inbox' view is in testing and could arrive widely later this year, organizing messages as daily tasks based on contact patterns. Rollout begins for US English users, with broader access in coming days. Google says it does not train on personal message text and runs AI in isolated environments.

Samsung unveils 2026 Audio Ecosystem at CES, expanding immersive multi-device sound

January 9, 2026, 1:56 AM EST. Samsung unveiled its 2026 Audio Ecosystem at CES in Las Vegas, a multi-device platform designed to adapt sound across rooms and moments. The lineup centers on Music Studio 5 and Music Studio 7 speakers, with the HW-Q990H soundbar for cinema-grade audio and the Sound Tower for social and active environments. Samsung says up to five products can pair to deliver Q-Symphony, its most immersive cinematic experience yet. Zeena Hill, Marketing Director of HEA, underscored a design that blends elegance with intuitive use and seamless cross-room listening, supporting mindful living. The ecosystem aims to tailor sound for mornings, focus, or evenings, while products are built to fit interiors. For updates, visit samsung.com/uk.

DJI teases new product in China, sparks speculation after cryptic teaser

January 9, 2026, 1:44 AM EST. DJI has posted a teaser in China that has sparked online debate about a forthcoming device. A poster on Weibo, reposted by Digital Camera World, shows a stark, black box lit dramatically-no prop, no silhouette, just mood. The cryptic image has fueled a wave of guesses about a new product line, a familiar move in DJI's cadence during launches. No details accompany the post; observers say the absence of a drone frame or gimbal signals a tease, not a disclosure. In consumer news, Amazon now lists the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo with the DJI RC2 for around $1,099. DJI has not confirmed a date for any formal reveal.

Apple weighs multispectral imaging sensors for future iPhones

January 9, 2026, 1:42 AM EST. Apple is weighing multispectral imaging sensors for future iPhones, to capture light beyond the visible red, green and blue. The approach could improve material separation, depth perception and low-light performance. The information comes from Digital Chat Station, a well-known tipster who says Apple has shown interest and begun contacting suppliers, but testing has not yet started. If true, the move would push iPhone cameras toward richer scene data rather than standard RGB. The tipster reiterates prior rumors: the iPhone 18 Pro may feature a variable-aperture 48MP main camera and a larger 48MP periscope telephoto sensor. He also claimed Apple is testing a 200MP Samsung sensor for a future iPhone.

AI devices are coming; will apps survive the new AI operating systems?

January 9, 2026, 1:40 AM EST. Tech giants such as Amazon, Meta, and OpenAI race to design operating systems for AI-powered devices that act on users' behalf. By 2026, AI agents could book travel, order meals, and restock supplies without opening an app. The shift could upend business models built on keeping users inside apps to serve ads and upsell services, narrowing revenue to core offerings. Developers worry about losing visibility and control if users reach them through AI agents instead of direct app taps. Apple's long-running app store economics and platform tensions loom large. Early tests, like Rabbit's R1, show hesitation from major apps to grant API access. A thriving developer ecosystem may determine whether AI devices expand or entrench incumbents.

Apple Watch study finds January fitness gains persist beyond Quitter's Day, Apple says

January 9, 2026, 1:38 AM EST. Apple released data from roughly 100,000 participants in the Apple Heart and Movement Study over four years, showing how wearing an Apple Watch correlates with higher January exercise activity. After a holiday dip, average daily minutes for Apple Watch users rose in January and continued into spring. In the first two weeks of January, more than 60% of Apple Watch users increased minutes by over 10% from December. Many kept these gains through Quitter's Day, with about 80% sustaining the rise in the second half of January and 90% maintaining through February and March. Apple Fitness+ adds new multi-week programs this month; Ring in the New Year runs January 1-31. Strava also hosts a Quit Quitting challenge for Apple Watch users.

Singapore startup bets generative AI can fix a broken music sector

January 9, 2026, 1:36 AM EST. Singapore-based startup Wubble AI, led by Anand Roy and Shaad Sufi, is using generative AI to create, edit and customize royalty-free music across 60 genres. Since 2024, the company has produced tracks for Microsoft, HP, L'Oréal and NBCUniversal and even supplies tunes on the Taipei Metro. Roy says Wubble aims to fix a broken music sector by paying musicians upfront for the raw material used to train the model, instead of relying on micro-payments on streaming platforms. The founders source sessions from studios around the world to diversify datasets, and are exploring blockchain to improve compensation oversight. The debate over training AI on copyrighted material persists, with industry voices like David Gunkel arguing for curated datasets and crediting contributors to avoid infringement.

Three AI millionaire-maker stocks to watch: Alphabet, Micron Technology and more

January 9, 2026, 1:28 AM EST. Three millionaire-maker AI stocks are featured as the AI boom broadens beyond risky micro-caps. The piece argues that established tech giants offer safer upside as AI scales. Alphabet, Google's parent, is highlighted for its cash cushion, ongoing AI work, and tools like Gemini AI and its TPUs for Google Cloud. The article notes Alphabet could fund further advances or even acquisitions to stay ahead. It also spotlights Micron Technology as a smaller chipmaker crucial to AI hardware, with DRAM and other memory roles powering AI workloads. A third established AI stock is mentioned but not named in the excerpt. The analysis underscores balance sheets and accessible AI assets as drivers of long-run gains.

Tesla FSD incident on Interstate 95 sparks praise and scrutiny

January 9, 2026, 1:00 AM EST. Video published by The Electric Israeli, who goes by Dr. Moshe, shows a Tesla in Full Self-Driving mode veering toward a grass median on Interstate 95 in South Carolina after a lead vehicle brakes hard. The poster claims FSD saved his life, but the clip raises safety questions as the car appears to brake late and leave the roadway before rejoining traffic. Critics say the footage highlights the limits of a system Tesla markets as driving assistance, not autonomous driving. The incident comes amid federal scrutiny of FSD and a string of prior endorsements from owners after crashes. Tesla says FSD is a driving assistance feature, not a substitute for a human driver, underscoring ongoing debate about reliance on the technology.

Caterpillar unveils Cat AI Assistant to boost safety and efficiency at CES 2026

January 9, 2026, 12:52 AM EST. Construction equipment maker Caterpillar unveiled the Cat AI Assistant at CES 2026, calling it a personal assistant for operators and technicians. CEO Joe Creed told FOX Business the tool helps address a lingering operator shortage by delivering real-time, tailored guidance on operation, parts and maintenance, powered by NVIDIA's Riva speech models. In a live demo, operators can speak to the machine to activate safety features, including height-limit protections that keep booms from contacting overhead lines. The system can recognize people on site to improve hazard avoidance and safety. Caterpillar positions the Cat AI Assistant, with its edge computing and NVIDIA partnership, as a game changer for safety and productivity on crowded job sites.

AirPods Pro 3 back on sale at record low $200

January 9, 2026, 12:50 AM EST. Apple's AirPods Pro 3 are back on sale at a record low of $200, down from $250 (20% off). Released in September last year, the third-gen model earned an Engadget review score of 90/100. Upgrades include live translation and heart-rate tracking that can feed data to Apple Fitness and compatible apps. Apple redesigned the acoustic architecture and adjusted driver angles to improve sound delivery. The improved ANC is claimed to filter twice as much noise as the AirPods Pro 2 and four times more than the original. Live translation uses beamforming mics and noise cancellation and currently supports a limited set of languages. The deal may appeal to new buyers or those upgrading.

Pixel 9 to gain AirDrop-Quick Share cross-sharing, signaling broader rollout

January 9, 2026, 12:48 AM EST. Google is expanding cross-sharing between AirDrop and Quick Share beyond the Pixel 10 to the Pixel 9 lineup. Spotted in an Android Canary build, the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro firmware include cross-sharing files, though the feature remains inactive. Google previously limited interoperability to Pixel 10; the company could enable it with Android 16 QPR3 or later in Android 17. Pixel 9a and older devices are not showing the files yet, while Pixel 8 and Pixel 7 series appear unaffected for now. The change signals a broader plan to integrate cross-device sharing, but users must wait for activation. Attribution: Android Authority first reported the discovery; Google has not finalized a rollout date.

Motorola Adds Stylus to Foldable Razr Fold at CES

January 9, 2026, 12:46 AM EST. Motorola teased a foldable phone at CES, pairing a stylus with a bold clamshell design dubbed the Razr Fold. Early hands-on previews frame it as a challenger to Samsung and Google's foldables, highlighting pen input and a roomier interior for notes and productivity. Motorola casts the device as disruptive, positioning it as a premium foldable option in a crowded segment. Details on price and release timing remain scarce, but the company signals a renewed push into productivity-focused foldables. The move intensifies the rivalry, with rivals racing to improve stylus support, battery life, and hardware speed, while chasing thinner, faster hardware.

Apple and NVIDIA Set to Rival Over TSMC 3D Packaging With M5/M6 Ultra

January 9, 2026, 12:40 AM EST. Apple and NVIDIA are tightening competition over TSMC's 3D packaging capacity, potentially drawing rivals Intel and Samsung into the mix. Apple's A-series uses InFO-PoP today, but industry chatter suggests a shift to WMCM packaging for the A20, and to SoIC-MH for M5 Pro/Max. The plan would let multiple dies-CPU, GPU, Neural Engine-sit in a single package. Meanwhile, NVIDIA continues to rely on CoWoS packaging for GPUs, and the M5/M6 Ultra could compete for AP6/AP7 resources with Apple moving toward SoIC/WMCM, risking capacity allocation. TSMC has started outsourcing some advanced packaging to OSAT firms like ASE and Amkor to ease bottlenecks. Analysts warn the converging roadmaps raise the possibility of tighter supply for advanced 3D packaging.

CES 2026: Nvidia unveils Rubin, Alpamayo AI; AMD debuts Ryzen AI 400 Series

January 9, 2026, 12:38 AM EST. CES 2026 in Las Vegas pushed AI to the fore, but hardware and quirky showpieces still defined the floor. Nvidia used a lengthy keynote to unveil the Rubin computing architecture, set to replace Blackwell in the second half of 2026, with speed and storage upgrades and a focus on autonomous vehicles. It also showcased the Alpamayo open-source AI models and tools aimed at real-world robotics, part of Nvidia's plan to turn infrastructure into an Android for generalist robots. AMD's keynote highlighted new processors and partnerships, with Ryzen AI 400 Series pushing AI into personal computers, backed by figures from OpenAI and Fei-Fei Li. The show's standout oddities remain as editors curate the most eyebrow-raising moments ahead of the live blog updates at CES.

OnePlus Turbo 6V launches with 9,000 mAh battery, 144 Hz AMOLED to rival Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus

January 9, 2026, 12:36 AM EST. OnePlus on Monday announced the Turbo 6V, a cheaper companion to the Turbo 6, aimed at challenging the Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus. The phone uses the same 50 MP main camera, 2 MP monochrome lens and 16 MP front camera as its pricier sibling. It carries a 9,000 mAh battery with 80 W wired charging, and a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2,772 x 1,272 and up to 1,800 nits brightness. The Turbo 6V's display runs at 144 Hz instead of the Turbo 6's 165 Hz. Pricing starts at CNY 1,899 for 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage, with a pre-sale price of CNY 1,699. Higher RAM/storage options are 12 GB RAM + 256 GB for CNY 2,099 and 12 GB RAM + 512 GB for CNY 2,399, with a CNY 200 pre-sale discount. International availability remains undisclosed.

TCL Note A1 NxtPaper debuts at CES 2026 as a notes-first tablet with 120Hz display

January 9, 2026, 12:32 AM EST. At CES 2026, TCL unveiled the Note A1 NxtPaper, a notes-first tablet pitched against ReMarkable and Kindle Scribe. It uses a 120Hz LCD panel branded as NxtPaper Pure, delivering a paper-only display with no color-switch option. The 11.5-inch device runs on a heavily customized Android, prioritizing productivity over media consumption. Key hardware includes an aerospace-grade aluminum body, a 5.5mm-thick chassis, a slim 500-gram weight, and an 8,000 mAh battery. A stylus offers 8,192 pressure levels, dual tips, an eraser and an X-axis motor. Software centers on Split View, with Edge, Microsoft apps, and the Copilot AI assistant. Availability is later this year via Kickstarter, with pledges near $437 (HK$3,403).

Apple tests Background Security Improvements in iOS 26.3 and macOS Tahoe 26.3 betas

January 9, 2026, 12:02 AM EST. Apple is testing a second phase of Background Security Improvements in the iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3 and macOS Tahoe 26.3 betas. The updates install outside the normal update flow and target Safari, WebKit, and other core libraries. They can be installed manually via Settings > Privacy and Security or applied automatically if the option is enabled; skipping them still yields the fixes later with a standard update. For now the effort centers on testing delivery rather than new fixes. The program replaces the earlier Rapid Security Response approach, offering a less intrusive mechanism that can be opted out of. Apple warns of rare compatibility issues and can remove a background update, delivering a revised version later. The goal: speedier protection and stronger browser security as web attacks rise.