DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Pro leak points to dual-front-camera design
January 27, 2026, 3:48 AM EST. DJI may be preparing the Osmo Pocket 4 Pro after a Reddit photo purportedly shows the pocket-sized vlogging cam with a dual-camera front setup and the familiar rotating screen from the Pocket 3. The leak fuels talk of two Pocket 4 variants – a standard single-lens model and a higher-end Pro. A dual front lens could enable different focal lengths or a zoom function, though specifics aren't confirmed. The device would keep DJI's gimbal-stabilised design; gimbal-stabilised means the camera sits on a motorized mount that smooths movement for walk footage. Timing remains unclear; leaks hint at an April reveal, but DJI hasn't commented. The leak underscores a broader push in this category, with rival brands also exploring Pocket-style cameras.
Apple could release four new products in 2026, including a HomePad hub, doorbell, foldable iPhone and AR glasses
January 27, 2026, 3:40 AM EST. Apple is expected to broaden into new hardware categories in 2026, unveiling four products alongside new services. Rumors point to a smart home hub called the HomePad, described as a mix of a HomePod-like speaker and an iPad-style display. DigiTimes and other outlets tie its release to iOS 26.4 and Google's Gemini AI models, with a 6-7 inch display and an A18 chip. The device would run on Apple Intelligence and rely on the App Intents API to control apps and devices. Other rumored items include a smart doorbell, a foldable iPhone, and first-generation augmented reality glasses, plus a premium tabletop robot with a mechanical arm expected by 2027. Apple reportedly plans roughly 20 product releases this year.
Study questions AI agents' limits, citing LLM ceiling on complex tasks
January 27, 2026, 3:36 AM EST. A Wired-published, non-peer-reviewed paper by Vishal Sikka and Varin Sikka argues that large language models have an inherent ceiling that prevents them from carrying out computational or agentic tasks beyond modest complexity. Sikka, a former SAP chief technology officer who studied under John McCarthy, says there is no way LLMs can be reliable for such work. The article notes that OpenAI researchers have acknowledged persistent hallucinations and that model accuracy will "never" reach 100%. The piece challenges hype around autonomous AI agents, which firms hoped would replace human labor after last year's hype. Proponents counter that external guardrails and integrated components can mitigate flaws; the paper concedes the limitation for a pure LLM but suggests composite systems may overcome it. The conclusions remain unpeer-reviewed.
Electric winter briefing: Tesla Cybertruck demand cools as EV tips and solar stories rise
January 27, 2026, 3:34 AM EST. On the latest Quick Charge episode, hosts deliver EV-focused guidance for cold weather, from driving tips to keep you moving to how home solar and backup batteries fit into winter resilience. The show notes also revisit vehicle-to-home capabilities and spotlight big battery projects in North Carolina. Cybertruck shipments are referenced as Elon Musk expands overseas, while sections promote EnergySage-provided solar quotes. The program combines practical steps for navigating icy roads with context on the capacity and rollout of large batteries, plus links to older posts about V2H systems. Listeners are invited to submit tips and rate the show on major podcast platforms.
AI data centers spur a new heat economy as excess heat powers campuses and district networks
January 27, 2026, 3:32 AM EST. Big Tech's AI push is unlocking a new use for data-center heat. In Dublin, an AWS facility now supplies about 92% of a nearby campus' heating, part of a widening move to reuse waste heat through district heating networks. The trend hinges on AI hardware that runs hotter and on advances in water cooling that can recover higher-temperature heat, reducing the hardware footprint. Industry executives describe the approach as a social license boost for data centers and a decarbonization tactic, even if cost remains a hurdle. Europe-wide programs are expanding; Microsoft, Equinix, and Google have initiated heat-recovery projects in Denmark, Paris, and Finland, respectively. Ireland, once tight on energy, has relaxed its moratorium on new data centers and is seen as a testing ground for repurposing heat into a municipal network.
Cambridge's Zenith AI supercomputer secures £36 million government upgrade
January 27, 2026, 3:18 AM EST. Government to invest £36 million to upgrade the Dawn supercomputer in Cambridge, expanding its capacity sixfold as part of AI funding. The upgrade will rename the system Zenith, adding AI chips and more power by spring. Dawn has supported more than 350 projects for free and helps NHS waiting lists and climate modelling. The AIRR program provides free access to high-powered computing, with Dawn and Isambard in Bristol. Zenith is built with Dell, AMD and Stack HPC. The move aims to speed up medical diagnostics and climate research. Dr Paul Calleja notes 1 megawatt draw and 50 engineers keep Dawn running; he highlights power efficiency. The project seeks breakthroughs for science and public services.
Animated short 'Dear Upstairs Neighbors' blends animation and AI research at Sundance
January 27, 2026, 3:16 AM EST. At Sundance, the animated short Dear Upstairs Neighbors previews at the Sundance Institute's Story Forum, a space focused on artist-first tools for visual storytelling. The film follows Ada, a young woman desperate for sleep who is kept awake by noisy upstairs neighbors; as she investigates, reality bleeds into fantasy in a battle for peace. The project brings together animation veteran Connie He-Pixar alum-with researchers from Google DeepMind to explore how generative tools might fit into artists' creative workflows. The collaboration mirrors a broader push to integrate AI into storytelling while safeguarding craft.
Gulf oil giants back India's AI infrastructure push at India Energy Week
January 27, 2026, 3:02 AM EST. At India Energy Week, officials frame the AI surge as a battle for electricity, not just software. The event's subtext: power grids and cooling matter as much as code. UAE's ADNOC chief Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber showed that oil majors are thinking bigger, signaling a shift toward energy infrastructure for scalable AI. Global data-centre demand already accounts for about 1.5% of electricity use, with the IEA citing roughly 415 TWh in 2024, and AI workloads likely to push that higher through 2026. India aims to become a testbed for AI infrastructure, with its data-centre capacity currently about 1.4 GW and a pipeline expected to reach high single-digit gigawatts by the end of the decade. The risk is underinvestment, not oversupply, as cooling and grid constraints tighten the path forward.
Apple rolls out iOS 26.2.1 to fix emergency-call issues on older iPhones in Australia
January 27, 2026, 2:58 AM EST. Apple released iOS 26.2.1 today to fix an issue that blocked some older iPhones from making emergency calls in Australia. The company also pushed updates for older devices, including iOS 18.7.4, 16.7.13, 15.8.6 and 12.5.8, to ensure continued access to 000 calls on models up to the iPhone 12 and earlier. The move follows a December failure that affected iPhone 12s and prompted the earlier update. Apple also rolled out watchOS 26.2.1 to address potential problems on Apple Watch Series 6 and newer. Australian carriers are expanding emergency-call support, though some older devices may still face issues. If another network hiccup occurs, some older phones could fail to reach emergency services on any alternate network. Affected models are listed in Apple's support doc.
Apple rolls out iOS 26.2.1 to fix emergency-call issues on older iPhones in Australia
January 27, 2026, 2:56 AM EST. Apple on Friday pushed iOS 26.2.1 to address an emergency-call defect affecting older iPhones in Australia. A refreshed support document urges users with an iPhone 12 or earlier to install the latest software so their devices can dial the 000 emergency number. Today's updates also include iOS 18.7.4, iOS 16.7.13, iOS 15.8.6 and iOS 12.5.8 for older models. The issue, first reported in December, blocked emergency calls on iPhone 12 units and was fixed with the earlier update; the new releases aim to prevent a recurrence on older devices and some cellular Apple Watch models. watchOS 26.2.1 covers Apple Watch Series 6 and later. Australian carriers say they are improving emergency-call support, though some legacy phones could still experience outages. Apple lists a broad update slate for affected models.
Tesla earnings face SpaceX spotlight as Musk's ventures loom in IPO chatter
January 27, 2026, 2:52 AM EST. Tesla is due to report quarterly results after the U.S. stock close, but the night's discourse centers on SpaceX. On Say.com, the retailer's forum for earnings-day questions, the top-voted query asks whether long-term Tesla holders would keep priority if SpaceX goes public. SpaceX is seen by some investors as a potential rival valuation, with talks of an IPO this year and a target value as high as $1.5 trillion-roughly the size of today's Tesla. Analysts say any allocation plan would have to address ties between the two Musk-led companies. Separately, investors are watching Tesla's push into robotaxi deployments in Austin and the Bay Area, its FSD software roadmap, and a projection for a future without drivers. Musk has suggested self-driving could become widespread by year-end, while Cybercab plans are also noted.
DJI Mini 4K Hits All-Time Low Price on Amazon, Bundles Discounted Up to $110
January 27, 2026, 2:48 AM EST. DJI's Mini 4K drone has its lowest Amazon price yet, with all three bundle configurations discounted 24-26% as of January 26, 2026. The single-battery kit is $225, the two-battery combo$289, and the Fly More Combo$339-saving up to $110 off list. The move follows the December 2025 FCC Covered List action, which keeps existing stock legal to sell and fly but blocks new models from FCC authorization for now. The Mini 4K weighs 249 grams, placing it under the FAA recreational registration threshold-no paperwork, fees, or Remote ID (identity broadcast) required when flying. The price drop strengthens its position as a compact, legal entry for first-time pilots seeking longer flight times in the top bundles.
UK government funds £36m upgrade for Cambridge's Zenith AI supercomputer
January 27, 2026, 2:44 AM EST. Britain is pumping £36 million into the Dawn supercomputer at the University of Cambridge as part of a broader AI push. The upgrade will boost Dawn's capacity sixfold and rebrand the system as Zenith. The AI Research Resource (AIRR) program gives researchers free access to high-powered computing, supporting more than 350 projects to date, including tools for faster cancer vaccine development, NHS waiting-list reductions and climate modelling. The project, developed with Dell, AMD and Stack HPC, aims to deliver practical benefits such as quicker medical diagnostics. Dawn consumes about 1 megawatt of power and roughly as much water as 20 homes; proponents say energy use is justified by the outputs. UK researchers and tech firms will gain access to tools of the future to advance public services and innovation.
Google to pay $68 million to settle claims its voice assistant spied on users
January 27, 2026, 2:30 AM EST. Google will pay $68 million to settle a class-action accusing the Google voice assistant of unlawfully intercepting and recording users to serve advertisements and for disclosing those recordings to third parties. The settlement does not admit wrongdoing. The case centers on alleged false accepts, where the Google Assistant activated and recorded without a wake word. TechCrunch sought comment from Google. The dispute sits in a broader privacy debate about devices that listen in on users. It echoes 2021 settlements when Apple paid $95 million over Siri recordings, and follows Google's own $1.4 billion Texas privacy settlements announced last year.
Apple Watch finds four times more hidden AFib cases than standard care, study says
January 27, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. The EQUAL trial at Amsterdam University Medical Center followed 437 patients aged 65 and older at high stroke risk for six months. About half wore an Apple Watch (Series 5 or 8) for roughly 12 hours daily; the other half received standard care. The device detected 21 new cases of AFib (9.6%), versus 5 in standard care (2.3%). Notably, roughly 57% of Apple Watch detections were asymptomatic, meaning patients felt fine and might not seek care. All seven symptomatic detections occurred in the standard-care group. The watch relies on photoplethysmography to monitor rhythm and can trigger a single-lead ECG when irregularities arise. Lead investigator Dr. Michiel Winter called the results notable. Earlier work in 2021 also highlighted wearable arrhythmia detection.
ASML rides Nvidia's coattails with lasers and huge chip printers
January 27, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. ASML, the Dutch lithography maker, supplies the EUV (extreme ultraviolet) machines that print the AI chips fueling the AI boom. The company counts TSMC and Intel among its clients and holds about 90% of the lithography market, thanks to its high-throughput EUV systems. Shares have surged as chipmakers lift capex to expand capacity amid tighter supply and higher chip prices, with Nvidia powering demand for AI chips. Analysts have lifted 2026 forecasts above company guidance as investors watch for a potential upgrade to guidance. Major customers plan larger investments: TSMC aims to raise capital spending, with others including Samsung and Micron also increasing spending. Competition remains in the lower-end DUV segment from Nikon, Canon, and SMEE.
Apple unveils second-generation AirTag and Black Unity Connection Braided Solo Loop
January 27, 2026, 2:20 AM EST. Apple on Tuesday introduced its first two physical products of 2026: a second-generation AirTag with longer range and a louder speaker, and the Black Unity Connection Braided Solo Loop for the Apple Watch. Both items can be ordered now on Apple.com and in the Apple Store app in dozens of countries and will be available at Apple Store locations later this week. Apple expects about 20 more product launches in 2026, signaling a busy year ahead. The AirTag attaches to belongings and uses the Find My network across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and iCloud.com to provide location data. The Black Unity Connection Braided Solo Loop continues Apple's line of themed accessories.
Apple to pay up to $20 per Siri device in $95 million privacy settlement
January 27, 2026, 2:18 AM EST. Apple has begun distributing a $95 million class-action settlement after claims Siri recorded private conversations and shared them with advertisers. Tens of millions could qualify. To receive payments, owners of Siri-enabled devices must have held the device between September 17, 2014 and December 31, 2024. Eligible claimants may lodge up to five devices and receive as much as $20 per device, with total payout varying by valid claims. Notifications were sent by settlement administrators via emails and postcards; the claims window closed in July. Apple has denied wrongdoing but agreed to settle. Apple says Siri was designed to protect user privacy, while plaintiffs contended inadvertent activations caused confidential conversations to be obtained by Apple and/or shared with third parties.
Garmin beta update fixes HRV crash and Messenger scroll on Fenix, Epix and Enduro watches
January 27, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. Garmin has begun rolling a public beta of firmware 21.18 for high-end watches in the Fenix, Epix and Enduro families. The release prioritizes stability over new features. The prominent fix targets Garmin's HRV data, which could crash or display erratic results when accessed on the watch. The update also addresses lag and stutter in Garmin Messenger conversations, especially on longer threads or smaller screens. Garmin says the changes are quality-of-life improvements and that features like ECG and dive may remain disabled until the beta graduates to a stable rollout. Non-enrolled users won't see the update yet, but Garmin typically widens access after testing.
AirTag 2 adds UWB 2, louder speaker and Watch support
January 27, 2026, 2:14 AM EST. Apple's AirTag 2 brings a second-generation UWB chip (labeled UWB 2), enabling a 1.5x longer Precision Finding range. Precision Finding now works on Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2. The speaker is up to 50% louder. It uses a newer Bluetooth spec. Internals redesigned to fit the speaker. Weight 11.8 g, up 7%. Back label now capitalized, listing IP67 water/dust, NFC and Find My support. Not for pets. Reset requires removing the battery four times, waiting up to 12 seconds for the final tone. Requires iOS 26.2.1. The AirTag 2 still uses the Find My network to locate items when out of Bluetooth range.
Big Tech borrowing spree stirs AI risk concerns in US bond market
January 27, 2026, 2:10 AM EST. Big Tech firms have issued large volumes of bonds to fund AI bets, pushing corporate debt higher in the US market. The trend blends discipline with risk: leverage grows as firms chase AI leadership, while interest rates and refinancing costs rise. Investors weigh the upside of rapid product cycles against the vulnerability of debt-funded growth when revenue misses or policy changes hit. Credit analysts flag potential widening spreads if regulation or macro headwinds slow demand. Refinancing risk grows as maturities come due amid a volatile bond market. Still, many blue-chip issuers retain strong ratings and cash flows, which could temper stress. The outcome will hinge on actual returns from AI initiatives and policy clarity.
Motorola Razr Ultra deal hits official site with freebies and 1TB upgrade
January 27, 2026, 2:08 AM EST. Motorola's official site lists the Razr Ultra in all Pantone hues – Scarab, Cabaret, Mountain Trail and Rio Red. The foldable phones ship with a Snapdragon 8 Elite, 16GB RAM, and include a free 1TB storage upgrade. Build quality features an aluminum frame, steel hinge, IP48 rating, and a vegan leather back with a vintage touch on Mountain Trail. The 7.0-inch LTPO AMOLED display runs at 1,224 x 2,912 and supports 165Hz refresh. Battery tests show about 4,700 mAh, with 68W wired and 30W wireless charging. The bundle adds Moto Watch Fit and Moto Buds Plus (worth $199 each). All told, the deal sits at $999.99, but time is limited.
Apple unveils second-generation AirTag with longer range and louder speaker
January 27, 2026, 1:58 AM EST. Apple on Monday announced a second-generation AirTag, identical in size to the original but powered by an updated Ultra Wideband chip for better range in the Find My app. Apple says the new AirTag is 50% louder and can be heard up to twice as far, thanks to a redesigned speaker and internal layout. It also touts industry-first privacy protections, including cross-platform alerts and frequently changing Bluetooth identifiers to deter unwanted tracking. Pricing stays the same: $29 for one and $99 for a four-pack, with orders open and shipments due later this week. The company framed the update as making it easier to locate belongings while preserving its existing accessory ecosystem.
Cloudflare's Human Native deal signals AI licensing shift for publishers
January 27, 2026, 1:46 AM EST. Cloudflare's acquisition of UK-based startup Human Native signals a shift toward a licensed, structured content layer for the AI economy. The deal aims to turn publisher output into AI-ready data and ensure creators are paid, underpinning an AI licensing stack for its publisher clients. Cloudflare has already explored this path with a private beta for an AI Index that helps high-quality data reach AI developers. The move tightens the company's broader effort to rebalance the relationship between publishers and AI companies, adding better control for content rights and monetization. Yet incentives matter: without licensed content, AI models risk low quality data and regulatory and reputational risks. The industry faces a catch-22 between openness and payment.
The Day AI Takes Over Car Operations: From Reactive to Agentic Autonomy
January 27, 2026, 1:44 AM EST.AI has become the invisible layer binding cars' driver aids, infotainment, safety, and manufacturing. Today's systems are largely reactive-following commands and sensor inputs with fixed rules. The next phase is predictive AI, which anticipates traffic, weather, fatigue, and even driver mood to suggest routes or adjust behavior. The leap is agentic AI: systems that set goals, make decisions, and act autonomously. In cars, that could mean rerouting to avoid danger, limiting high-speed driving in bad weather, or even pulling the car over if impairment is detected. Regulators, insurers, and manufacturers clash over who defines the goals of AI. Critics warn about risks of misuse and misinformation, while proponents see potential for safer, more efficient driving. The debate centers on control, accountability, and the boundary between assistance and autonomy.
Tesla vs Meta Platforms: Which AI Growth Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026
January 27, 2026, 1:42 AM EST. Tesla is reshaping earnings toward AI-enabled services around its Robotaxi amid ongoing profit pressure and a pause in near-term delivery momentum. Each Tesla vehicle carries hardware believed to enable full self-driving, with over-the-air updates planned when software advances mature. Meta Platforms, by contrast, is prioritizing AI infrastructure to support ads and a broader vision of personal AI, with revenue up about 26% in Q3 and, excluding a one-time tax charge, net income up roughly 19%. The contrast: Tesla faces execution risk as Robotaxi scales; Meta benefits from a faster-growing core business and clearer AI tailwinds. The takeaway: both are AI plays, but investors face different risk/return profiles and timelines for AI-driven profitability.
Samsung Galaxy S26 leaks point to Feb. 25 Unpacked, March 11 launch
January 27, 2026, 1:40 AM EST. Leaker Ice Universe claims Samsung will unveil the Galaxy S26 at an Unpacked event on February 25, with a South Korea launch set for March 11 and a global pre-order window from February 25 to March 4, followed by a presaleMarch 5-10. The post notes those dates likely map to Western markets as well. Ice Universe has previously teased Samsung details with a track record, though Samsung has not confirmed any dates. The rumors also touch on colors leaking and a refinement rather than a redesign. Specs reportedly include a thinner chassis, a new 12MP telephoto sensor and a Snapdragon processor. No official confirmation yet.
Clawdbot users snap up the Mac Mini as price falls under $500 on Amazon
January 27, 2026, 1:38 AM EST. Mashable's Lauren Allain reports that Clawdbot users are snapping up the Mac Mini, which pairs with an AI personal assistant designed to run as an always-on hub. The M4 Mac Mini is on sale at Amazon for $499, down from $599 – a 17% discount. Deal pricing and availability are subject to change after publication. The sale underscores demand for low-cost, compact machines that support AI tools and home automation.
Tech megacaps Meta, Microsoft eye earnings; charts point to potential positive reactions, says Katie Stockton
January 27, 2026, 1:36 AM EST. Technical analyst Katie Stockton points to favorable charts for META and MSFT ahead of their earnings this week, with both stocks flirting with long-term cloud support. META has retested its cloud, boosting weekly stochastics and a rising MACD histogram, setting up a potential breakout. Resistance sits near 681, defined by the Q4 gap and the cloud's upper edge; a weekly close above could target the all-time high near 796, while a break below the cloud could bring secondary support around 526. MSFT also tested cloud support; a decisive advance above the 481-485 zone-cushioned by the cloud and the 200-day MA-could open a path toward the all-time high near 555. A breakdown would shift focus to roughly 425. Apple looks oversold and may post a positive initial reaction, with resistance near 275 and support around 235-243.
SpaceX GPS III-9 launch could be seen across Florida's Space Coast
January 27, 2026, 1:34 AM EST. Late-night rocket fans in Florida may glimpse SpaceX's Falcon 9 when it lifts off Tuesday night from Cape Canaveral. The mission, GPS III-9 for Lockheed Martin, places a next-generation GPS satellite into medium-Earth orbit. The 15-minute launch window opens at 11:38 p.m. ET from Launch Complex 40. Visibility spans from Jacksonville Beach to West Palm Beach, weather permitting and depending on cloud cover and trajectory. For dramatic photos, a nocturnal launch and the rocket's bright plume can illuminate the sky and trail a long contrail. In Volusia County, best viewing is along the beach, facing south, with spots such as South New Smyrna Beach and Bethune Beach Park recommended. USA TODAY Network reporters will offer live updates at floridatoday.com/space and via the Florida Today app.
AirTag 2 adds Precision Finding for Apple Watch, preserves battery and size
January 27, 2026, 1:32 AM EST. Apple's second-generation AirTag adds Precision Finding support for Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, guiding users with haptic, visual and audio cues and a large on-screen arrow. The tag uses the same CR2032 battery and retains long life-more than a year under typical use. It keeps the same physical size, ensuring existing accessories remain compatible. Availability is immediate, with pricing unchanged at $20 for a single AirTag and $99 for a four-pack. Apple notes continued compatibility with current cases and mounts, so luggage or bags with built-in AirTag holders remain usable.
Apple Watch saved my life, doctor says wearable may have prevented heart attack
January 27, 2026, 1:20 AM EST. An account of how an Apple Watch helped avert a medical crisis. The author, living with leukaemia and on targeted chemotherapy described as a miracle pill, says the watch's heart-rate monitor flagged a dangerous rise to 120 beats per minute in bed, with dizziness. A treating physician later told him the watch deserved thanks and that he might not have been here without it. After a cough, a private GP diagnosed a chest infection. A nurse asked about medications, revealing the ongoing chemo regime. He then suffered a severe headache and nausea that night. The piece highlights how wearable health tech can prompt timely medical care amid chronic illness.
Google adds Gemini scheduling feature to Calendar
January 27, 2026, 1:18 AM EST. Google is introducing a Gemini-powered feature in Google Calendar that suggests meeting times by scanning attendees' calendars. In a draft, users can click Suggested times; Gemini reviews availability and conflicts and offers slot options. If attendees decline, organizers can reschedule to a time when everyone is free. The tool requires access to attendees' calendars and is limited to paid plans-Google Workspace Business (Standard and Plus) and Enterprise (Standard and Plus)-as well as the Google AI Pro for Education add-on. The feature is live on Rapid Release domains now and will roll out to Scheduled Release domains on February 2.
Apple unveils Black Unity Apple Watch band with community grants
January 27, 2026, 1:16 AM EST. Apple unveiled the Black Unity Apple Watch Unity Connection Braided Solo Loop for Black History Month. The special-edition band is designed by Black creatives at Apple and weaves recycled polyester yarn around ultrathin silicone threads. It features the Pan-African flag colors, a textured, sweat- and water-resistant finish, and a multitone look. Apple also announced grants to organizations that promote connection and creativity, including Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Urban Arts in New York, Youth Music in London, Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney, and Enactus México in Mexico City. The program extends Apple's ongoing commitment to economic, educational, and creative opportunities in communities worldwide.
NASA moves closer to Artemis II fueling test ahead of launch
January 27, 2026, 1:14 AM EST. Teams at NASA's Kennedy Space Center are moving forward with Artemis II preparations, staging the SLS rocket, Orion spacecraft and ground infrastructure for a wet dress rehearsal (WDR). The test could begin as early as Saturday, Jan. 31, and will load more than 700,000 gallons of cryogenic propellants, run a launch countdown, and practice safely venting and removing propellant with no crew aboard. The WDR will include several runs to demonstrate holding, resuming, and recycling the terminal count in the final 10 minutes, culminating in a simulated launch at around 9 p.m. EST. If needed, teams may rollback to the Vehicle Assembly Building for additional work. Earlier, boosters were serviced and Orion prep continued; engineers addressed an emergency egress system issue and prepared for cold-weather operations.
AI-generated imagery distorts Holocaust memory, experts warn
January 27, 2026, 1:10 AM EST. On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, experts warn that AI-generated imagery risks distorting the memory of Nazi crimes for clicks or political aims. AFP's Fact Check team flagged a surge of such visuals on social networks, including a claimed photo at Flossenbuerg and a non-existent child said to have died at Auschwitz. Historians Iris Groschek and Jens-Christian Wagner say the trend is rising with AI advances. Memorial groups call the content 'entirely fabricated' and warn of images that dilute facts or reverse roles. Some pieces come from content farms seeking maximum reach; others aim to trivialise the Holocaust or push revisionist narratives. The phenomenon has concrete consequences for how the Nazi era is perceived.
Mishicot-area residents rally against proposed AI data center
January 27, 2026, 1:08 AM EST. Dozens of Mishicot-area residents gathered at a local restaurant Monday to oppose an AI data center proposed for the region, as land scouts approach farms with purchase offers. Anthony Barta of Two Creeks, who runs about 1,000 animals, said a sale would threaten his livelihood and the wider community. Cloverleaf Infrastructure, which has pursued land for multiple Northeast Wisconsin data-center projects, said the region is a viable site but declined to comment on any specific project. A local farmer was reportedly offered about $70-80 million for as much as 6,000 acres. Cloverleaf had pulled an AI data center plan in Greenleaf two weeks earlier after community backlash and did not pursue land near the Kewaunee-Manitowoc border. In nearby Kaukauna, officials amended zoning to allow data centers with restrictions.
Garmin Vivoactive 6: Sleek design, strong performance
January 27, 2026, 1:02 AM EST. Garmin's Vivoactive 6 blends a sleek look with solid performance. The watch minimizes bulk for daily wear while offering a bright AMOLED display and up to 11 days of battery life. It tracks health and fitness with metrics like sleep quality and stress, plus built-in sports apps, animated workouts, and suggested daily routines. Connectivity extends to notifications on the wrist, onboard music storage, and Garmin Pay, with support for app and watch-face downloads to keep things fresh. At around $250 on sale, it delivers notable value for a recent release. A range of colors lets you match your style, making it a strong option for wearers who want performance without bulk.
Sam Altman says AI could dramatically slow OpenAI hiring
January 27, 2026, 12:58 AM EST. OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman warned that AI progress could dramatically slow OpenAI's hiring. The remark hints at a shift in growth plans as the company weighs how quickly to expand its team against evolving product goals and safety considerations. Altman's comment underscores a broader industry caution about scaling talent during rapid technological change, even as the company pursues new partnerships and product launches.
China's thermal battery breakthrough uses COF barrier to curb shuttle effect
January 27, 2026, 12:56 AM EST. China's scientists have proposed a COF-based barrier to temper the shuttle effect in thermal batteries, a long-standing hurdle that drains capacity. The approach, reported in Advanced Science, centers on a shell built from covalent organic frameworks (COFs) around specific battery particles. By tuning which ions can move, the barrier curbs the dissolution of intermediate polysulfides and reduces irreversible sulfur loss that limits cycling efficiency. Led by Professor Wang Song and Zhu Yongping of the Institute of Process Engineering at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the work builds on prior attempts to insert barriers and dedicated sulfur electrodes. If scalable, the concept could underpin high-density thermal batteries with improved performance and longer lifespans, offering a foundation for next-generation energy storage.
Tesla ends Autopilot in US and Canada, shifts basic features to $99/month subscription
January 27, 2026, 12:54 AM EST. Tesla has discontinued Autopilot in the United States and Canada, replacing basic driver-assist functions with a paid subscription. Starting February 14, owners must pay $99 per month for features such as autosteer and lane-keep, while Traffic Aware Cruise Control remains free. The move follows years of regulatory scrutiny, lawsuits, and high-profile crashes linked to the system. Tesla also faces a California court deadline over alleged misleading branding of Autopilot versus Full Self-Driving (FSD). The subscription strategy coincides with Musk's pay package and aims to boost revenue amid sagging car sales. Tesla had previously offered an $8,000 one-time FSD unlock; the company emphasizes FSD as a separate product, though it still requires driver engagement.
Apple expands iPhone share in India as shipments flatten in 2025
January 27, 2026, 12:52 AM EST. Apple's iPhone shipments in India rose to a record 9% market share in 2025, Counterpoint Research data show, up from 7% in 2024 as the total smartphone market held steady at about 152-153 million units. TechCrunch cited around 14 million iPhones shipped in 2025. Apple's gains stem from the iPhone lineup, growing aspirational demand, and broader sales channels, as the company ramps up local manufacturing and a broader retail push. Despite momentum, Apple did not crack the top three by shipments; Vivo led with 23%, followed by Samsung at 15% and Xiaomi at 13%. Premium devices (₹30,000+) rose 15% to a record 23% of shipments.
OnePlus 15R review: premium build, flagship hardware, mid-range cameras
January 27, 2026, 12:50 AM EST. OnePlus 15R sits between the Nord 5 and the OnePlus 15, offering a premium build and a large 6.83-inch display with 165Hz and HDR10+. It runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 with 12GB RAM and UFS 4.1 storage, backed by a 7,400mAh battery and 80W wired charging. The camera array sticks to a 50MP main with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide, plus a 32MP selfie cam, trading away the telephoto of the flagship for more basic optics. The phone ships in a red box; in the EU, the charger is omitted. At price, it sits close to the OnePlus 15, which could dampen its appeal despite the durable build, fast storage, and sizable battery. A flagship killer label remains nuanced, given the competition and pricing.
ARC Raiders Headwinds update adds Solo vs Squads, trophy displays and new cosmetics
January 27, 2026, 12:48 AM EST. ARC Raiders rolls out the Headwinds update on January 27, boosting competition and progression. The game now supports a Solo vs Squads option for players above level 40, with extra XP for tackling squads. The Trophy Display feature lets players hunt ARC machines (the game's hostile robots) for sport, building a trophy case and unlocking rewards as they level up. In Bird City, melting ice brings more loot-typically in chimneys-but raiders face more ambush risk from others. Two new cosmetic sets arrive, including the Sandwalker Set for stealth and mobility. The update signals a broader escalation in the topside environment and challenge.
California requires disclosure for AI-altered real estate photos under AB 723
January 27, 2026, 12:46 AM EST. California's AB 723 requires real estate listings showing AI- or software-altered images to carry a reasonably conspicuous disclosure and to include a link to the original, unaltered image via a URL or QR code. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the measure, which goes into effect on January 1, 2026. The rule aims to curb misleading visuals as AI-enabled editing spreads beyond California to sites such as Zillow and Redfin, including virtual staging and AI walkthroughs. Industry observers warn that altered photos can confuse buyers, even as the technology lowers staging costs. NAR official Dan Weisman told Wired that 80-90% of conference attendees were using AI, reflecting rapid uptake. States such as Colorado and New York are considering guardrails as this trend grows.
Arc Raiders outlines four-month Escalation roadmap to April 2026
January 27, 2026, 12:44 AM EST. Arc Raiders' post-launch plan widens with a four-month Escalation roadmap, unveiled after the winter Cold Snap event. Embark Studios says Headwinds lands Jan 27, adding a new matchmaking option for high-level players, a map condition, and a player project. February introduces Shrouded Sky-recurring map conditions and more player projects. In March, Flashpoint brings another Arc threat. April closes the arc with Riven Tides, opening a new map and a previously unseen large Arc. The run follows the game's 12 million copies sold milestone and arrives as Bungie's Marathon looms in the same subgenre. The studio says narrative progression will sync with the evolving PvE experience, even as live events keep players engaged.
Apple Watch Ultra Trail Loop hits all-time lows as Blue colorway starts at $56, up to 44% off
January 27, 2026, 12:42 AM EST. 9to5Toys reports that Apple Watch Ultra bands are deep-discounted on Amazon and elsewhere. The Trail Loop in Blue/Bright Blue with Natural Titanium finishes is about $60.62; the Black Titanium finish drops to $55.58. Both are near all-time lows, with up to 44% off the MSRP of $99. The color debuted in September and deals are volatile, but these prices are unusually solid this week. Other notable sales include the Alpine Loop in Terra Cotta/Black at $80 and Light Blue/Black at $70.50; the Ocean Band options range from $75-$77. While these are official Apple bands, prices can swing quickly, so buyers should act fast.
Google to settle $68 million in Assistant recordings class-action
January 27, 2026, 12:40 AM EST. Google will settle a class-action over how it handled voice recordings captured when its devices activated unintentionally. The proposed $68 million settlement follows a 2019 VRT NWS report and centers on False Accepts where human contractors reviewed audio from Pixel phones, Google Home devices and other Assistant hardware without proper consent. Plaintiffs alleged confidential information was disclosed to third parties for advertising and other purposes; Google denies wrongdoing. If approved, payouts range from $18 to $56 for eligible device owners and $2 to $10 for those whose accounts or households were affected. Apple and Amazon faced similar cases; Apple settled for $95 million in 2025. The case underscores ongoing scrutiny of how voice assistants handle user data as platforms shift toward newer AI upgrades.
Micron stock up 28,700% since IPO; AI demand could drive further gains
January 27, 2026, 12:38 AM EST. Micron Technology sits outside the GPU-focused AI crowd, trading on its role in high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and storage. As AI deployments scale, developers are spending more capex on memory and storage rather than just GPUs, lifting Micron's revenue trajectory. The company is improving margins, with the HBM TAM expected to grow at about a 40% CAGR to roughly $100 billion by 2028. The stock has climbed about 28,700% since its 1984 IPO, and bulls argue the upcycle could extend as AI demand broadens. Valuation remains modest next to megacap peers, but risks include cyclical memory demand and supply dynamics. Investors should weigh the upside against industry cycles as Micron leverages AI momentum.
Garmin accidentally reveals Cirqa Smart Band in Canadian listing
January 27, 2026, 12:36 AM EST. Garmin appears to have leaked a new wearable, the Cirqa Smart Band, via a Canadian listing that was quickly pulled. Android Authority and a Reddit screenshot captured details: two sizes (S/M and L/XL), two colors (Black and French Gray), and a four-to-five month shipping window. The S/M fits 120-200 mm wrists; L/XL fits 145-200 mm. The post suggests an imminent launch, likely by mid-year to align with the outdoor running season, but there is no official confirmation yet. Garmin's last public update came at CES, when it announced that full nutrition tracking would arrive in Garmin Connect. A US release remains possible, though past products have shown Canada-exclusive tendencies. Full feature details and a firm release date are pending official confirmation.
Edge AI and Digital Twins Spark a New Industrial Era, CES Signals Change
January 27, 2026, 12:34 AM EST. At CES, leaders like Jensen Huang of NVIDIA and Cristiano Amon of Qualcomm framed a shift from centralized cloud to Edge AI and Digital Twins as the backbone of a faster, more human-centered economy. The show felt less like a gadget fair and more like the birth of an industrial era, where data, intelligence and virtualized environments converge. Siemens CEO Roland Busch demonstrated how Digital Twins can turn engineering tools into enterprise-wide decision engines, enabling real-time simulation, prediction and optimization across manufacturing, energy and transport. The narrative sits alongside a Moore's Law backdrop-explosive growth in computing power-that underpins scalable AI. NVIDIA and AMD have become foundational infrastructure for AI, while the move toward edge computing reframes where intelligence is applied, not just where it is computed.
Apple releases third developer betas for iOS 26.3 family, adds background security updates
January 27, 2026, 12:32 AM EST. Apple has pushed the third round of developer betas for its iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, visionOS 26.3 and macOS Tahoe 26.3. The batch follows the second beta issued Jan. 12 and the first batch Dec. 15, 2025. Apple also distributed background security updates outside the usual flow, suggesting ongoing testing. Beta 3 builds include iOS 23D5114d, iPadOS 23D5114d, watchOS 23S5611c, visionOS 23N5613b, tvOS 23K5611c and macOS Tahoe 25D5112c, replacing prior builds. The first beta added a Transfer to Android option in Settings and enabled notification forwarding to third-party wearables; the second beta referenced end-to-end encryption for RCS on iOS. Apple warns users not to install betas on mission-critical hardware and points to the public beta for broader testing.
tm:rw Store Reimagines Retail With Immersive Tech in Times Square
January 27, 2026, 12:30 AM EST. tm:rw, a three-story, 20,000-square-foot store in Times Square, opened July 2025 as a testbed for immersive technology. It blends shopping with hands-on experiences-from VR glasses trials to a robot massage and a Formula 1-inspired racing simulator. Co-founded by Nathalie Bernce and Jacov Nachtailer of Smartech Retail Group, tm:rw bills itself as a playground for imagination and adventure, highlighting home tech such as secure smartphones, LED anti-aging masks, 360-degree speakers and a zero-gravity indoor herb planter. Located on West 42nd Street in the Candler Building, the outlet targets high foot traffic from theaters, tourists and commuters. A 17-foot-tall HYPERVSN 3D hologram and other immersive displays invite visitors to engage with products beyond glass.
Qualcomm backs SpotDraft to scale on-device contract AI as valuation nears $400M
January 27, 2026, 12:24 AM EST. Qualcomm Ventures led an $8 million strategic Series B extension for SpotDraft, lifting its valuation to about $380 million-nearly double the $190 million post-money after last year's $56 million Series B. The funding backs SpotDraft's on-device contract-review tech for regulated legal workflows, addressing privacy, security, and data-governance concerns that slow cloud-based GenAI. At Qualcomm's Snapdragon Summit, SpotDraft demonstrated its VerifAI workflow running end-to-end on Snapdragon X Elite laptops, performing contract review and edits offline while keeping documents local. Internet access remains needed for login, licensing, and collaboration, but core tasks like review, risk scoring, and redlining run offline. The company frames legal as an early proving ground for on-device enterprise AI, with tight integration into Microsoft Word and playbook-based guidance.
Tesla raises FSD price as capabilities grow; outright purchase ends
January 27, 2026, 12:22 AM EST. Tesla will raise the Full Self-Driving (FSD) subscription price as the software's capabilities grow, CEO Elon Musk said this week. The current $99/month rate for supervised FSD is expected to rise, with the jump tied to when customers can ride without supervision. The move follows Tesla's plan to end outright purchases on February 14, 2026. Some owners have floated a tiered approach, with unsupervised FSD costing the most and supervised tiers priced between $49-$99/month. Tesla has not set a target for the unsupervised price. Musk has long warned prices would climb as capabilities advance; in 2020 he said the value could exceed $100,000. Pricing for the unsupervised version will come later, with further increases possible as regulatory approvals loom. FSD stands for Full Self-Driving.
Google System Updates January 2026: NFC keys, under-18 sign-in, and real-time game achievements
January 27, 2026, 12:18 AM EST. Google's January 2026 System Release Notes detail updates across Google Play services, Play Store and platform components for Android and Wear OS. Key items include: for Google Play services v26.03, enabling account sign-in for users under 18 on Automotive devices under conditions; support for NFC security keys with CTAP2 across Auto, PC, Phone, TV, Wear; data migration improvements; Wallet updates to support digital IDs and related fixes. Play Store v49.9 adds AI-organized subtasks collapse in search results; v49.8 adds real-time updates of unlocked game achievements; v49.7 allows multiple prizes selection. For Android WebView v144, security/privacy improvements and bug fixes. Android System Management updates improve stability and diagnostics across Auto, PC, Phone, TV, Wear. Some features roll out gradually.
Why Android phones are cheaper than iPhones
January 27, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. An incident in London last year underscored why iPhone devices command higher prices and enjoy stronger brand loyalty. Thieves returned an Android phone after realizing it wasn't an iPhone, underscoring the value gap and demand for Apple's product. Since 2007, Apple tightly controls software while Google offered Android as a free OS for device makers. Today, hardware and apps are similar across platforms, yet iPhone apps often debut first, reinforcing the pull of the Apple ecosystem. For Android vendors, competition runs against iPhone and other Android brands. The iPhone's value comes from premium materials, durability, long battery life, and at least five years of iOS updates, keeping devices relevant for developers and users and sustaining a premium price.
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NHS to trial AI and robotic tools to speed lung cancer detection and diagnosis
January 27, 2026, 12:00 AM EST. NHS England will run a trial pairing AI with robotic biopsy to speed lung cancer detection and diagnosis at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust in London. The effort coincides with a pledge to offer screening to all smokers and ex-smokers by 2030, with projections showing about 50,000 lung cancers diagnosed by 2035, including 23,000 at an early stage. The technology uses AI to flag nodules as small as 6 mm, while a robotic camera guides biopsy tools to collect tissue samples for faster, more accurate analysis. NHS England says earlier detection could shorten uncertainty and reduce invasive procedures. Cancer Research UK cautions that rapid, real-world testing is needed to confirm accuracy and patient benefit.
