Technology News 30.01.2026

The AI bubble will pop: replacing it responsibly with open-source, pluralistic tech

January 30, 2026, 11:54 PM EST. History repeats. After the 1999 dot-com crash, the web matured into open platforms and collaborative tools. Today, AI rallies around a handful of giants, concentrating gains and raising profitability questions while production remains far from assured. Critics warn that the current model treats technology as an extractive industry, hoarding data and accelerating domination rather than broad public good. Rather than replicating that path, a growing cohort of open-source and mission-driven firms is building shared, auditable AI infrastructure. Leaders like Hugging Face, Flower AI and Oumi are deploying open-source models, decentralized learning and local deployment to broaden access and reduce risk. These efforts offer a different economic model-one that favors transparency, competition and human-centric innovation-turning a bubble into lasting, sustainable progress.

Aronofsky's AI-driven On This Day… 1776 criticized as 'slop' despite high production values

January 30, 2026, 11:22 PM EST. Aronofsky's shortform series On This Day… 1776 deploys SAG voice actors and AI visuals from Google DeepMind to re-create pivotal Revolutionary War moments. The review argues the project aims to show AI can augment human artistry but instead reveals deeper problems with AI filmmaking. Two released episodes, January 1: The Flag and January 10: Common Sense, display a flat, plasticky sheen and jerky, weightless movement that verges on the uncanny valley. Tiny technical quirks-such as hair masquerading through hair or a hairbrush gliding without contact-underscore that AI output remains lifelike in surface but nonsensical in detail. Dialogue and plot feel boilerplate, with captions naming characters and a single recurrent musical sting. Aronofsky, credited as executive producer, is framed as attempting a serious experiment but delivering content rather than artistry.

West Virginia to pilot tablet-based CPS investigations in two counties

January 30, 2026, 11:20 PM EST. West Virginia lawmakers introduced House Bill 4580 to launch a two-county tablet-based CPS investigation pilot, aiming to cut field workers' administrative time and improve field coverage. Del. Adam Burkhammer told a House Government Subcommittee that tablets could flip time from the office to investigations. two counties would be chosen by the West Virginia Department of Human Services based on need. The bill arrives amid scrutiny of the PATH system, which has cost about $272 million and faced ongoing issues, according to cabinet secretary Alex Mayer. Burkhammer said newer technologies offer plug-and-play integration and that the state should consider the pilot as it seeks a successor to PATH.

RedMagic 11 Air review: slim gaming phone with strong value but camera and software caveats

January 30, 2026, 11:10 PM EST. RedMagic 11 Air positions itself as a slim gaming phone with a price-to-performance edge. It runs last year's flagship chipset but starts at €499/$529/£439 for 12GB/256GB, with an early-bird discount. Highlights include a 144Hz OLED panel, shoulder triggers, and a flexible external gaming setup. On the downside, it trades photography for performance: a lackluster camera and software plagued by awkward English translations. It also lacks eSIM support, the cooling fan feels gimmicky, and the speakers could improve. Compared with rivals, it remains a niche option-unique but not a universal choice unless you value gaming features over camera quality and software polish.

Aronofsky's AI-generated American Revolution series draws sharp criticism

January 30, 2026, 11:08 PM EST. Aronofsky is behind On This Day… 1776, an AI-generated drama meant to mark the American Revolution's 250th anniversary. Produced by Primordial Soup AI and powered by Google DeepMind technology, the project is presented by Salesforce. The gimmick: each event's retelling airs on the day it happened. Two episodes-January 1 and January 10-have appeared on Time magazine's YouTube channel, with further installments planned through 2026. Critics say the project is very bad, arguing AI-made performances are stiff and uncanny; mouths misalign, cameras swoop, and human voices come from real actors. The show aims to reframe history through artificial intelligence, prompting debate over AI's role in art and memory. Salesforce's involvement underscores corporate interest in AI-driven storytelling.

Apple's $1.5 billion Q.ai deal signals push into deep-tech for hardware and AI

January 30, 2026, 11:06 PM EST. Apple's deal to acquire Israeli deep-tech firm Q.ai for about $1.5 billion to $2 billion marks its second-largest purchase. The move fits Apple's pattern of buying cutting-edge capabilities rather than finished products, then folding them into in-house teams. In past cases-Intel modem unit, Anobit, Shazam, NeXT, Beats-Apple kept tech and talent inside the company, sometimes turning acquisitions into R&D centers. The Q.ai deal also brings back Aviad Maizels, a former Apple executive. Patents suggest the company works on interpreting minute facial skin movements, a capability that could feed future hardware and AI features. Apple's aim appears to be laying groundwork for next-generation devices rather than marketing a standalone product today.

Galaxy Z TriFold $2,900 Sells Out Online in Minutes as Demand Outpaces Supply

January 30, 2026, 10:54 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold, priced at $2,900, went on sale in the US and sold out within minutes. Samsung offered no immediate stock figures; early online checks showed only one team member securing a unit, with others met by out-of-stock notices. The device's price has drawn scrutiny, with CNET calling it 'unhinged.' Still, analysts say there is appetite among a subset of buyers for a foldable that acts as a phone and tablet. Ben Wood of CCS Insight notes the category remains niche but 'head-turning' enough to generate interest. Samsung's hands-on impressions described the TriFold as a genuine phone-tablet hybrid. A full review followed, as Reuters and others awaited longer-term verdicts on durability and value.

Musk pitches Airbnb-for-cars model as Tesla eyes robotaxi revenue

January 30, 2026, 10:50 PM EST. On Tesla's Q4 call, Elon Musk pitched a future where owners can add idle Teslas to a robotaxi (an autonomous taxi service) network. Owners could earn more by lending their car to the fleet than their lease payments, effectively getting paid to own a Tesla-a potential income stream. The plan uses an opt-in system, likened to Airbnb for cars, letting owners add or remove their vehicles from the network. Musk cited millions of cars with AI4-Tesla's autonomous software-as a ready-made fleet. If autonomy scales, private Teslas could become yield-generating AI4-driven infrastructure rather than depreciating assets. Tesla aims to operate in dozens of major cities by year-end, pending regulatory approval. WeRide, a Chinese rival, has over 1,000 robotaxis and partnerships with Uber and Dubai's RTA.

AI agents launch Reddit-style Moltbook network, raising security concerns

January 30, 2026, 10:40 PM EST. AI agents have launched a Reddit-style social network called Moltbook, already attracting more than 32,000 registered users and dozens of subcommunities. The platform lets AI agents post, comment, upvote, and create groups via a downloadable skill prompt and API access, enabling machine-to-machine interaction with minimal human oversight. Within 48 hours, Moltbook tallied about 2,100 agents and more than 10,000 posts across 200 subcommunities, according to the Moltbook X account. It grew from the OpenClaw ecosystem-the open-source AI assistant that can control calendars, messaging, and other apps. Security concerns loom because agents link to real communication channels and private data, and in some cases can execute commands on users' devices. This isn't the first bot-only social space, but the scale and leverage of real tools intensify risk, Ars Technica notes.

Tesla to train Optimus robot at Austin factory

January 30, 2026, 10:34 PM EST. Tesla plans to train its Optimus humanoid robot at its Austin factory, according to Business Insider. The move flags a continued push to develop in-house robotics at the plant. Optimus remains in the development phase, with no timeline disclosed in the report. The disclosure highlights Tesla's broader aim to advance automation across its operations, using Austin as a focal point for ongoing robot work.

Apple favored over Meta as iPhone cycle accelerates growth

January 30, 2026, 10:30 PM EST. Apple's fiscal Q1 revenue rose 16% as iPhone 17 sales surged 23%, with stronger demand in Greater China (+38% year over year) fueling a sharp acceleration from Q4. Meta Platforms posted Q4 revenue of $59.9 billion, up 24%, but costs jumped 40% as AI investments weigh on margins; first-quarter guidance implies ~30% revenue growth, aided by a 4% foreign exchange tailwind, while full-year growth is expected to ease. The author argues Apple is the better buy given the contrasting trajectories. Meta's outlook remains robust but clouded by higher spending; Apple benefits from product cycles and a stronger regional mix, suggesting more durable margin expansion.

RGG acknowledges demo graphical issues; v1.11 patch planned at launch for Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties ahead of Feb. 12 release

January 30, 2026, 10:06 PM EST. Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio says the Switch 2 demo of Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties shows graphical issues not representative of the final game. A v1.11 patch is planned at launch to fix lighting and other quality concerns, including visuals around the Kubochi River area in Downtown Ryukyu. The patch promises further improvements with rollout timing varying by platform. The final version is slated for February 12, with the studio thanking fans for support of the Like a Dragon and Yakuza series.

Apple reports best-ever iPhone sales as Mac dips

January 30, 2026, 9:56 PM EST. Apple reported best-ever iPhone sales even as Mac shipments declined, according to a BBC interview with a senior executive. The executive said Apple products, including packaging, should deliver a 'pleasurable, perfect experience.' That focus on experience sits alongside caution on AI deployment, after the interview described the current ChatGPT responses as 'stumbling' and 'un-Apple-like.' The comments help explain why Apple is taking a measured approach to rolling out AI features even as the flagship device line remains a key growth driver amid a softer PC market.

Bigme B10 color E Ink tablet runs Android 14, shipping February

January 30, 2026, 9:52 PM EST. Bigme has announced the B10, a 10.3-inch color E Ink tablet designed for reading, writing and light productivity. It uses Kaleido 3 color E Ink with a 2480×1860 monochrome and 1240×930 color display. The device runs Android 14, unlocking Google Play and productivity apps. It carries 8GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, plus a microSD slot for expansion; it also offers 4G LTE connectivity, a front light with adjustable color temperature, speakers, microphones and front/rear cameras for basic communication and scanning. Input supports a stylus and an optional magnetic keyboard case. Bigme says advanced refresh reduces ghosting for smoother scrolling. Pricing starts at $699, with the keyboard bundle at $769. Pre-orders are live, with shipments expected February 10.

SpaceX-Tesla merger talks sharpen focus on nearly $1.7 billion bitcoin stake

January 30, 2026, 9:50 PM EST. Talks of a potential SpaceX-Tesla merger, possibly with xAI, bring renewed attention to a large corporate BTC stake. SpaceX and Tesla together hold nearly 20,000 BTC, about $1.7 billion, making them the world's seventh-largest holder after Bullish. SpaceX controls roughly 8,285 BTC; Tesla holds 11,509 BTC, with no changes in Q4 2025. Tesla booked a $239 million after-tax loss on its digital assets last quarter as bitcoin slid from about $114,000 to the high $80,000s. A merger would not change bitcoin's fundamentals but would reshape governance, accounting, and financing for a major holder. Tesla, a public company under fair-value accounting, contrasts with SpaceX's private status. Talks underscore how bitcoin sits on balance sheets and could factor into due diligence for large investors.

Making schools phone-free is near impossible; do parents buy in?

January 30, 2026, 9:46 PM EST. Administrators say a universal phone-free rule faces practical hurdles. Tsang notes staff routinely catch students using phones in social times, but even vigilant supervisors can't monitor every corner of a campus. He argues for statutory guidance to standardize rules. Without a uniform approach, enforcement varies from school to school, undermining fairness. If all schools enforce the same ban, Tsang argues it would be fair and could win buy-in from parents and families, a critical factor in successful adoption. The comments highlight the tension between policy aims and on-the-ground enforcement, and the challenge of securing broad public support for tighter device rules in schools.

Broadcom stock seen as AI data-center play with long-term gain potential

January 30, 2026, 9:32 PM EST. Broadcom (AVGO) sits at the intersection of AI and data centers, powering custom chips for AI workloads as demand for data-center GPUs expands. The data-center GPU market was valued at $23.87 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a 30.5% CAGR through 2032, reaching $201.64 billion. Broadcom has posted 2025 revenue up 24% year over year and net income up 42%. Morningstar data show strong past performance: 3-year 77.73%, 5-year 47.96%, 10-year 38.94%, 15-year 37.62%. Projections illustrate the math of compounding: a $1,000 investment at 25% annual growth could reach about $9,300 in a decade and roughly $87,000 in 20 years; an annual $1,000 contribution could reach about $345,000. Forward P/E around 34 and a 0.8% dividend yield, with potential for a rising payout, round out the picture. Investors should weigh risk and horizon.

Apple's iPhone 18 delay reconfirmed by Asia report; Pro models to launch this fall

January 30, 2026, 9:30 PM EST. New report confirms Apple will delay the vanilla iPhone 18 to the first half of next year, keeping the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max on track for a fall launch. The iPhone Fold is expected to be announced alongside them. The decision, described by sources to Nikkei Asia, aims to optimize resources and maximize revenue from premium models amid higher memory chip prices. The report also notes a possible iPhone Air launch with the iPhone 18 in 2027. Apple aims to minimize production hiccups as it mass-produces its first foldable model, helping to manage supply chain resources more effectively.

Oracle Remains a Long-Term Cloud Story Despite Near-Term Headwinds

January 30, 2026, 9:18 PM EST. Oracle Corp. remains a long-term bet on cloud computing even as near-term earnings face headwinds from capital-intensive growth. Morgan Stanley trimmed its target to $213 from $320, citing the potential of Oracle's GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS) push but warning the buildout could weigh quarterly results. Guggenheim reiterates a Buy with a $400 target, framing Oracle as a multi-year growth story with hyper-EPS expansion and strong free cash flow. In a separate deal, Oracle, Silver Lake and MGX each hold 15% of TikTok's U.S. entity, reinforcing Oracle's cloud ties and a role as a security/compliance partner. Oracle's cloud offerings include Fusion ERP, EPM, and HCM. Some analysts see AI names with greater upside and less downside risk.

Nvidia CEO Huang says AI memory demand rising, backs TSMC expansion, dismisses H200 China rumors

January 30, 2026, 9:16 PM EST. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, visiting Taiwan, said AI demand is rapidly boosting the need for advanced memory, arguing memory will shape AI as much as compute. He told media that modern models must think and respond at high speeds, driving rising memory capacity needs and that Nvidia relies on major HBM suppliers to meet demand. Huang rejected claims that Taiwan's capacity has moved to the U.S., stressing that global chip production is expanding with new capacity in the U.S., Europe and Japan while Taiwan remains a key hub. He praised TSMC as Nvidia's irreplaceable foundry partner and said capacity must scale over the next decade, with most production in Taiwan and expansion abroad. He dismissed rumors about regulatory approval for Nvidia's H200 chips, saying no orders have been placed and clearance is pending.

Anthropic probes ethics with Claude Constitution in new AI video

January 30, 2026, 9:12 PM EST. Anthropic's in-house philosopher Amanda Askell appears on Hard Fork to outline the company's new Claude Constitution. She discusses how to train an AI model to behave more ethically and why ethics is a central design constraint. The video frames ethics as a practical, measurable component of model alignment, not an abstract ideal. The discussion touches governance, evaluation methods, and the limits of curriculum design for large language models, highlighting Anthropic's approach to steering AI toward human-aligned outcomes. Can you teach a model to be good? January 30, 2026.

Amazon asks FCC for extension to deploy Leo satellite internet

January 30, 2026, 9:10 PM EST. Amazon has asked the FCC for more time to meet a 1,600-satellite deadline by July 2026 for its Leo internet constellation. The company says delays outside its control-rocket shortages, manufacturing setbacks, launch-vehicle failures and spaceport limits-justify a 24-month extension to July 2028 or a waiver to lift the deadline for roughly half of its planned 3,236 low-Earth orbit satellites. Amazon has earmarked at least $10 billion for the network and has booked more launches with SpaceX and Blue Origin, in addition to other partners. It has launched more than 150 satellites since April and expects about 700 in orbit by July 30, moving toward the second-largest constellation. A 32-satellite payload is planned for February 12 on an Arianespace rocket.

Tesla pivots from premium EVs to Optimus robots; xAI bet fuels AI push

January 30, 2026, 9:08 PM EST. Tesla is reorienting away from Model S and Model X to mass-produce its Optimus humanoid robots, repurposing its Fremont factory to speed the shift. The company is expanding autonomous technology efforts and committing $2 billion to Elon Musk's xAI. Rumors swirl about a potential merger with SpaceX or xAI that could reorganize the group around AI, robotics, and autonomy. Tesla, Nasdaq:TSLA, trades around $416.56 and has mixed recent performance. The pivot toward Optimus, robotaxis (autonomous ride-hailing vehicles) and software-driven services raises questions about execution and capital allocation as management redefines Tesla's role in tech and manufacturing. 2025 revenue about $94.8B, net income $3.8B, underscoring a software and services angle alongside traditional EVs.

Catastrophic event could bring down all Earth's satellites within days, researchers warn

January 30, 2026, 9:06 PM EST. Rising congestion in Earth orbit has raised fears that a single failure could trigger a cascade that collapses satellite networks within days. As of January 2026, about 15,000 satellites orbit Earth, with roughly two-thirds from SpaceX's Starlink. Operators routinely perform collision avoidance maneuvers-SpaceX does so about every two minutes-yet a loss of contact from a solar storm or a software glitch could prevent evasive action. Without defense, debris and mis-collisions could spiral into a debris belt that blocks access to space, a scenario known as the Kessler Syndrome. The concept dates to NASA researcher Donald Kessler's 1978 warning; decades of launches have made the risk increasingly plausible. A simultaneous satellite failure would threaten communications, navigation, weather, finance, and global supply chains.

Galaxy S26 Ultra may host Google's Scam Detection, APK teardown suggests

January 30, 2026, 9:04 PM EST. A new APK teardown, reported by Android Authority, hints that Google's Scam Detection could arrive on non-Pixel phones. The Galaxy S26 Ultra reportedly includes the flag com.google.android.apps.callcore.SUPPORTED, signaling it could install Android CallCore and run scam protection. Pixel devices use on-device AI for Scam Detection: Pixel 9/10 rely on Gemini Nano, while older Pixels use on-device ML. If Google enables CallCore on the Galaxy S26 Ultra, Samsung could be among the first non-Pixel Android phones to access Scam Detection, potentially opening to other devices later. The evidence comes from Phone by Google app data and related log files, but Samsung or Google have not confirmed a launch.

Cold weather pushes Artemis 2 wet dress rehearsal; earliest launch window shifts to February

January 30, 2026, 9:02 PM EST. NASA postponed the wet dress rehearsal for the Space Launch System and Orion due to an Arctic-like cold snap in Florida. The tanking test, loading more than 730,000 gallons of liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen, now targets Monday, Feb. 2. Engineers say conditions will drive a day-for-day change to the launch timeline. The earliest Artemis 2 launch date is pushed to no sooner than Feb. 8, with three February options remaining: Feb. 8, 10 or 11. A final date will come after data from the tanking test is analyzed. Artemis 2 would mark the first crewed Orion flight and the closest approach to the Moon in over five decades. Separately, Crew-12 preparations for the ISS continue, with crew and international partners aboard the schedule.

GitLab stock could break out in 2026 as AI backdrop improves outlook

January 30, 2026, 8:58 PM EST. GitLab's DevSecOps-to-SDLC platform shows strong growth, with revenue up 25%-35% and 12-month dollar-based net retention at 119%. The company is shifting to a hybrid seat-plus-usage model and leverages its Duo agent to lift ARPU, supporting a high gross margin around 80%. Yet the stock has lagged, and bears worry AI will reduce demand for coders and compress prices. GitLab argues a secure, source-code repository remains essential even as AI enables more coding; AI-enabled workflows could expand enterprise adoption. The stock trades at about 5.5x forward P/S and 24.5x forward P/E, implying room for multiple expansion if AI demand accelerates. 2026 could show the bears wrong, as execution and pricing flexibility matter.

Palantir deepens HD Hyundai ties, expands sovereign AI role across EMEA

January 30, 2026, 8:54 PM EST. Palantir Technologies has expanded its partnership with HD Hyundai, rolling out its Artificial Intelligence Platform and Foundry across shipbuilding, construction equipment, robotics and marine services. The company was also tapped by Sovereign AI, alongside Accenture, to help build next-generation sovereign AI data centers across EMEA. The moves broaden Palantir's role in industrial digital transformation and in secure, localized AI infrastructure for governments and enterprises. Executives describe the effort as embedding Palantir software into long-cycle, mission-critical operations, aligning with the shift from government analytics to enterprise software. The deals situate Palantir among cloud and AI leaders as clients seek scalable, secure AI architectures.

RedMagic 11 Air blends slim form with 7,000mAh battery for gaming endurance

January 30, 2026, 8:50 PM EST. RedMagic launches the 11 Air as a thinner gaming phone that pairs flagship power with a smaller chassis. It runs on Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite with up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, plus RedMagic's own RedCore R4 CPU and the CUBE scheduling engine. RedMagic says some titles reach 144fps, with improved visuals, sharper haptics, and RGB lighting synced to gameplay. Cooling is a focus: a 24,000 RPM active cooling fan and a new 4D Ice-Steps vapor chamber claim 40% better heat diffusion. Battery is a 7,000mAh pack with 80W fast charging and a feature called Charge Separation that routes power directly to the motherboard during gaming to protect the battery. The display is 6.8 inches, 144Hz, IP54, with improved shoulder triggers and AI features in Game Space, plus Google Gemini integration.

Agentic Fog Enables Decentralised Coordination for Dynamic Fog Workloads

January 30, 2026, 8:46 PM EST. Researchers present Agentic Fog (AF), a policy-driven, decentralised framework for coordinating fog and edge workloads. Implemented as an exact potential game, AF guarantees convergence and resilience even with node failures and asynchronous updates. In simulations, AF outperforms greedy heuristics and ILP, delivering lower latency and higher efficiency under fluctuating demand. The approach moves away from heavy large language models, favoring a non-LLM-driven Agentic AI (AAI) within a mesh-fog architecture where Fog Nodes (FNs) operate with local autonomy, partial observability, and peer-to-peer (p2p) interactions. This design improves coordination, scalability, and robustness in dynamic environments. Unlike reactive, centralized methods, AF emphasizes long-term behavior, stability, and analyzability under real-world uncertainty.

Nvidia's plan to invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI stalls, WSJ reports

January 30, 2026, 8:42 PM EST. Reuters reports that Nvidia's plan to invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI has stalled after internal doubts. The September proposal would have provided cash and access to advanced chips, helping OpenAI train and run its latest models. The Wall Street Journal cited people familiar with the matter, saying the companies are rethinking the partnership and considering a tens of billions equity investment as part of OpenAI's funding round. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has privately called the original agreement non-binding and questioned OpenAI's business discipline amid competition from Alphabet's Google and Anthropic. An Nvidia spokesperson said the partnership remains ongoing, while OpenAI did not respond. Amazon is reportedly in talks for up to $50 billion, and OpenAI seeks up to $100 billion in funding at a valuation near $830 billion.

Quest 3 v85 PTC adds Surface Keyboard and remaps Quest 3S action button

January 30, 2026, 8:38 PM EST. Meta's Horizon OS v85 PTC adds Surface Keyboard, a feature that turns any flat surface into a virtual keyboard on the Quest 3. Users place their hands on a table and, after a brief height-calibration step, a keyboard spawns. In early testing, reviewers found it accurate and faster than a floating keyboard, with typing possible in home space, passthrough, or virtual modes. Meta says an API for developers to use the floating keyboard exists; it did not confirm an API for Surface Keyboard at launch. The concept builds on Meta and ETH Zurich research that fuses a touch-prediction neural network with a language model (TouchInsight) to avoid markers. Surface Keyboard appears in Advanced settings on Horizon OS v85; Quest 3S still has questions, and Meta is testing a remap option for the Quest 3S action button.

D-Day VR Museum on Steam blends history with immersive VR experience

January 30, 2026, 8:36 PM EST. An early look at D-Day VR Museum on Steam shows a VR-driven historical exhibition that aims to educate through immersion. Priced at $14.99, the title from Lichtblau ITPublisher Diverently GmbH guides players through a museum hall, five D-Day beaches, and the airborne landings. A AI-narrated account explains the operation's background, leaders and geopolitics, while 3D-scanned artifacts can be physically held-such as a Bombe machine or a Rupert decoy-boosting sense of presence. The experience also replays Roosevelt's evening address to anchor the moment in history. Interactive video documentaries complement the artifacts, creating a more active, learning-focused environment than a conventional exhibit. The test run on Meta Quest 3 via Steam Link reported no performance issues; system specs vary per Steam page.

DJI RS 5 makes camera balancing easier

January 30, 2026, 8:32 PM EST. The DJI RS 5 is a milestone for anyone using a gimbal to hold a camera. The device streamlines setup, cutting the time spent dialing in camera balancing and letting shooters move quickly between tripod and handheld. In practice, users cite faster front-to-back and side-to-side balance, more predictable motor response, and less tweaking after tilt changes. The result is steadier pans and fewer mid-shot readjustments, even with heavier cinema lenses. For run-and-gun operators, the RS 5 offers a calmer workflow, making the camera's payload feel lighter and the footage more reliable.

Peloton lays off 11% of staff after AI hardware launch

January 30, 2026, 8:28 PM EST. Peloton said on Friday it is cutting about 11% of its staff, mostly engineers working on technology and enterprise efforts, per Bloomberg. The move follows a 6% layoff last August and aims to trim at least $100 million in annual spending by year-end. The company has leaned into a hardware push built around its Peloton IQ AI features, including the Cross Training Series bikes, treadmills, and a Row Plus. The lineup adds real-time form feedback, workout analysis, and AI-generated routines, while prices rise. Sales have fallen, and Bloomberg earlier reported sluggish initial demand for the AI-enabled gear. The Verge sought comment but did not receive an on-the-record response.

D-Day VR Museum on Steam blends education with immersive history in VR

January 30, 2026, 8:26 PM EST. The D-Day VR Museum on Steam offers an immersive, educational VR tour of the Normandy invasion. Developed by Lichtblau and published by Diverently GmbH, it lets players explore a virtual hall, five beaches, and airborne landings through a headset. An AI narration provides context, while 3D-scanned artifacts-such as a Bombe machine and decoy parachutes named Rupert-can be held to enhance presence. The experience includes documentary clips and Roosevelt's speech, and even lets players walk through recreated sites via an immersive paratrooper lens. Priced at $14.99, the title runs on Steam and supports Meta Quest 3 via Steam Link. The interactive element stands out, turning history into a tactile, educational experience.

AI-altered image on Senate floor spurs apology, highlights misinformation risk

January 30, 2026, 8:16 PM EST. An AI-enhanced image of the moment a federal immigration shooting occurred circulated online and later appeared on the U.S. Senate floor. The manipulated frame, which showed Alex Pretti surrounded by officers and included distortions such as a headless agent, spread across Instagram, Facebook, X and Threads. Senator Dick Durbin posted video of his floor remarks featuring the altered image, then apologized after his office learned it had been edited. Experts say lifelike AI visuals can spread during breaking news and shape political debate, even when obviously flawed. Some posts claimed Pretti held a weapon; verified footage showed he held a phone. NewsGuard warns such tools can fabricate faces and details to push an agenda, underscoring a growing digital reality.

OpenClaw settles on new name as AI agents build social network Moltbook

January 30, 2026, 8:06 PM EST. OpenClaw, the viral personal AI assistant formerly known as Clawdbot, has settled on its name after brief rebrand episodes tied to trademark concerns. Peter Steinberger, the project's creator, sought trademark clearance and permission from OpenAI, though Anthropic did not prompt the latest change. The project has surged in popularity, earning more than 100,000 GitHub stars in two months. The rebranding precedes Moltbook, a social network where AI agents interact in forums called Submolts and use downloadable instruction files called skills. Industry figures such as Andrej Karpathy and Simon Willison have praised Moltbook's potential. Steinberger has expanded the team beyond a solo effort. The platform's open, community-driven approach raises security considerations due to autonomous agents fetching online data.

Video-game stocks slide after Google unveils AI world-generation tool Genie

January 30, 2026, 8:04 PM EST. Google's Project Genie, an AI world-generation tool, spurred a retreat in the stocks of major game makers. Take-Two Interactive closed at $220.30, down 7.93%; Roblox $65.76, down 13.17%; Unity $29.10, down 24.22% after the announcement. Investors question whether AI tools can boost efficiency without eroding IP value. Critics point to data-training concerns, labor impact and the limited scope of Genie's 60-second experiences, which lack scores, sound, or easy integration with Unreal or Unity. Google DeepMind says Genie 3 is trained on publicly available data, including over 200,000 hours of publicly available Internet gaming videos. The debate over AI's role in game development and labor continues as executives weigh the risks and rewards.

Video game stocks slip after Google unveils AI world-generation tool Project Genie

January 30, 2026, 8:02 PM EST. Video game shares fell Friday after Google unveiled Project Genie, an AI tool that prompts the creation of interactive virtual worlds. Take-Two Interactive closed at $220.30, down 7.93%; Roblox at $65.76, down 13.17%; and Unity at $29.10, down 24.22%, Reuters reported. Genie generates experiences limited to about 60-second clips, with no scores, objectives or sound, and cannot be exported to major engines like Unreal or Unity. Google says Genie is trained on publicly available data, including thousands of hours of gaming videos, a point fueling IP concerns among artists and developers. Industry executives warn of a broader AI arms race-between engine-centric AI and world-model AI-as investors flag near-term volatility for the sector.

LG joins peers in abandoning 8K TVs as demand wanes

January 30, 2026, 8:00 PM EST. LG Display is no longer making 8K LCD or OLED panels, FlatpanelsHD reported, saying the company is reviewing market trends and the 8K content ecosystem. LG Electronics was the only brand to ship 8K OLED TVs, starting with the 88-inch Z9 in 2019, and in 2022 reduced the price of entry by $7,000 to $13,000 for a 76.7-inch model. FlatpanelsHD cited anonymous sources saying LG Electronics will not restock the 2024 QNED99T, its last LCD 8K TV. Other brands are retreating too: TCL halted 8K TV releases after 2021; Sony discontinued its last 8K sets in April and plans to sell Bravia TV ownership to TCL.

LG quits the 8K era as demand for ultra-high-resolution TVs wanes

January 30, 2026, 7:58 PM EST. LG Electronics is pulling back from the 8K TV push as consumer demand never materialized. LG released the first 8K OLED set in 2019 and trimmed the entry price for its larger models in 2022, but the market failed to take off. LG Display, the panel supplier, has stopped making 8K LCD and OLED panels, telling FlatpanelsHD it is reviewing trends in the 8K content ecosystem and timing. Other brands have followed: TCL ended 8K production after 2021; Sony scrapped its remaining 8K sets in 2023 and is shifting its Bravia business. The industry is moving away from 8K toward broader gains in picture quality, brightness, and practical content.

OpenClaw renames again, launches Moltbook social network for AI agents

January 30, 2026, 7:56 PM EST. OpenClaw, the AI project once known as Clawdbot, has settled on the name after briefly rebranding as Moltbot. Founder Peter Steinberger says he checked trademarks and sought OpenAI permission to head off copyright issues. Anthropic had challenged the previous branding, but declined comment. The project has drawn attention online, pulling more than 100,000 GitHub stars in two months. OpenClaw's new offshoot, Moltbook, is a social network where AI assistants interact. Figures such as Andrej Karpathy praised the platform as "the most incredible sci-fi takeoff-adjacent thing" and Simon Willison called Moltbook "the most interesting place on the internet right now." The network runs on a skill system-downloadable instruction files-and posts occur in forums called Submolts, with agents checking for updates roughly every four hours, a setup that raises security questions. Steinberger says the project is now a team effort.

Wisconsin GOP governor candidate accused of AI use in ad without disclosure

January 30, 2026, 7:48 PM EST. Wisconsin gubernatorial hopeful Tom Tiffany is accused of using AI in a campaign ad without disclosure, potentially violating a 2024 state law. The December 2025 spot, titled Don't Fear the Mailman, shows a mail carrier delivering a letter reading '400 YEAR PROPERTY TAX INCREASE.' AI expert Tomas Dodds of the University of Wisconsin-Madison told Isthmus that the video shows irregularities suggesting AI generation, though such claims are contested. Observers point to inconsistencies such as rust on a mailbox across shots and misaligned tree branches. Wisconsin's law requires campaigns to disclose AI use with the label 'This content generated by AI'; Tiffany's ad contains no such disclosure. Tiffany is a leading Republican candidate in the governor's race and is already a figure in the state's campaign landscape.

Apple weighs Google Gemini for Siri as Anthropic price talks surface

January 30, 2026, 7:46 PM EST. Apple may have signed a deal to run Google's Gemini AI inside Siri, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports, but Claude was already inside Apple Park and could return only if Anthropic lowers its price. Apple concedes its internal models lag behind rivals and still uses OpenAI and Anthropic offerings elsewhere. Gurman notes the Gemini agreement was signed recently, and Apple would throttle to non-Google models in places such as China to meet local rules. Apple already operates custom Claude instances on its own servers, and Anthropic was once in contention to power Siri. Anthropic reportedly asked several billion dollars per year. A Financial Times brief floated roughly $1 billion for Google's deal; Apple earns about $20 billion from its search relationship. Apple will keep ChatGPT in the mix and may eventually spin up in-house models.

Meta earnings: Zuckerberg outlines AI path, gradual growth

January 30, 2026, 7:42 PM EST. Meta Platforms Inc. signaled a gradual ramp in its AI strategy after reporting earnings, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg describing a patient, long-horizon path to growth. He outlined a phased plan to bring AI features to its apps and advertising tools while tightening costs and investing in data centers, chips, and safety systems. The approach prioritizes user experience and operating discipline over a near-term revenue surge. Analysts cautioned about ad cycle timing and regulatory headwinds, but the message reinforced that Meta sees AI as a core, long-term growth engine. The company aims to scale AI capabilities while balancing efficiency and profitability in its earnings trajectory.

iOS 26.2 adds Urgent alarms to Reminders with 9-minute Snooze

January 30, 2026, 7:40 PM EST. Apple's iOS 26.2 adds a new Urgent option to Reminders, turning due-time tasks into time-sensitive alerts. When you mark a reminder as Urgent, the iPhone triggers an alarm at the set time. The alert screen offers Snooze for 9 minutes, or a Settings-based switch to a Complete button to mark the task done. The feature pairs with a visible Lock Screen countdown and a Live Activity to keep urgency in view. Unlike older reminders, this provides a tighter prompt without relying on lengthy options like Remind Me in an Hour. Supporters say it helps avoid forgetfulness and keeps task management on-device without third-party apps. Apple has steadily closed gaps between Reminders and rival tools with this alarm capability as one of the latest upgrades.

LG halts 8K OLED development, leaving Samsung to lead 8K TV market

January 30, 2026, 7:38 PM EST. FlatpanelsHD reports LG Display is pausing development of 8K OLED panels, a move that leaves Samsung to press ahead with 8K TVs. The company says the program could restart if market conditions improve, but LG will not produce OLED 8K models, including the LG Z3. LG's remaining 8K option uses LCD technology, the QNED99, which is still available in some markets. By contrast, Sony ended 8K TV production last year with the Z9K, and 8K TVs have endured a difficult run due to scarce native content and high prices. The LG Z3's price was around £14,999 / AU$15,999 / $20,660 at launch. Samsung, meanwhile, continues to market 8K sets such as the five-star QN900D, priced toward premium buyers, with newer models like the QN990F and QN900F also launched previously.

Wolfe Research hikes Nvidia price target to $275 on rack-scale demand

January 30, 2026, 7:36 PM EST. Analysts at Wolfe Research lifted Nvidia's target to $275 from $250, though shares slipped about 1% in early U.S. trading as tech sentiment stayed cautious. The note argues rising demand for rack-scale systems and persistently high gross margins support the call. Wolfe says most rack revenue comes from completed boards sold to major cloud customers, with Taiwan Semiconductor and Foxconn handling manufacturing and final assembly. Checks put those boards at roughly three-quarters of the final rack price, with about $3 million for GB200 NVL72 racks and $4.3 million for GB300 NVL72 systems; Rubin racks are expected higher. The firm sees Nvidia data-center revenue exceeding $450 billion in 2027, supported by unit growth and firmer pricing, with margins near current levels.

Apple advances after strong earnings as AI focus and supply constraints loom

January 30, 2026, 7:32 PM EST. Apple rose modestly after reporting a stronger-than-expected fiscal first quarter, with iPhone sales hitting a record and revenue up about 16% year over year. The results underscored resilient demand but investors shifted focus to supply constraints and the company's evolving AI (artificial intelligence) strategy. Management flagged memory-chip limits and signaled prioritizing premium iPhone launches in 2026 amid tighter components. Apple's AI (artificial intelligence) roadmap features the acquisition of Q.ai and plans to embed Google Gemini into Siri, illustrating continued on-device intelligence and user experience investments. Analysts will watch for clearer evidence that these initiatives drive differentiated features and sustained demand as Apple heads into the next product cycle.

Rush Medical Center tests Apple Vision Pro to aid colon cancer detection

January 30, 2026, 7:30 PM EST. Chicago doctors are piloting Apple Vision Pro goggles to enhance colon cancer detection during endoscopies and colonoscopies. Rush University Medical Center, led by Dr. Irving Waxman, began a clinical study with Cosmo MedTech AI to project the endoscopic image directly into the surgeon's line of sight. The system runs GI Genius AI, which flags potential polyps with green boxes, giving doctors a real-time second check. If approved, the trial could expand to hospitals nationwide. So far, 15 patients have participated; findings will be reviewed by the FDA before broader trials proceed. Waxman says the immersive display keeps the image in the operator's field, potentially improving detection accuracy without turning away from patients.

Is Your Workplace Set Up for AI Agents? Lessons from Electrification

January 30, 2026, 7:28 PM EST. Factories moved from belts and pulleys to electric power, but only after rethinking building layout. Initial upgrades yielded modest gains; decades passed before firms redesigned single-story plants to place machines by workflow. The article argues AI agents will demand a similar architectural shift: rethink office floors, power and data access, and process design so AI can operate alongside humans. The message is practical: adapt infrastructure-spatial layout, utilities, and networks-to unlock AI's potential rather than retrofit old setups.

Samsung Galaxy S26 lineup expected at Galaxy Unpacked 2026 on February 25

January 30, 2026, 7:26 PM EST. Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy S26 lineup at its first Galaxy Unpacked of 2026, potentially on February 25 per leaker Evan Blass. The S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra should keep the design language of the Galaxy S25, with a flat front and a vertical pill-shaped camera plate. Internally, devices are slated to run the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in most regions, with Exynos 2600 in select markets. A 6.3-inch FHD+ display, 12GB RAM, 256GB/512GB storage and a 4,300mAh battery are expected. Camera arrangements remain similar to the previous generation, with the main sensor at 50MP, ultrawide 12MP, tele 10MP and 12MP selfie. Official details await Samsung.

SOLAR-1 Renamed from SWFO-L1 Reaches Final Destination One Million Miles from Earth

January 30, 2026, 7:24 PM EST. SOLAR-1, formerly SWFO-L1, is America's first satellite designed for continuous, operational space weather observations. The mission marks a major step in defending against solar storms. NOAA's Greg Marlow said the milestone underscores the agency's plan to build a space weather-ready nation. The satellite will supply state-of-the-art data for timely forecasts, warnings and alerts. NOAA's Richard Ullman added that the program aims to safeguard critical missions, including NASA's Artemis program, by monitoring space weather events.

SpaceX IPO Could Reshape AI Race, Musk Signals Ambitious Financing Strategy

January 30, 2026, 7:20 PM EST. Elon Musk's SpaceX is reported to be planning an IPO that could value the company above $1.5 trillion and raise more than $100 billion, a move aimed at accelerating his AI ambitions. The Wall Street Journal cites SpaceX as a potential mega-IPO catalyst. In another strand, Amazon is in talks with OpenAI to invest about $50 billion, with chatter of a late-2026 listing. Musk has floated options ranging from a SpaceX-led funding vehicle to a potential merger with Tesla or xAI, underscoring a bid to win the AI race. Rivals such as Microsoft, Alphabet, and Meta are pouring capital into AI, while SpaceX would fund data centers, Starlink revenue, and talent, aligning with Musk's broader mission.

Mamdani targets 'unusable' NYC AI chatbot for shutdown amid budget talks

January 30, 2026, 7:10 PM EST. Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the city will remove a artificial intelligence chatbot from the MyCity digital services project, part of a bid to trim costs in the wake of a $12 billion NYC budget gap. The Markup and THE CITY reported the bot, built on Microsoft cloud, gave advice that could enable illegal business practices, such as taking employees' tips. The administration has not set a removal date, and a spokeswoman said a transition team member flagged the reports to the mayor. Mamdani called the bot functionally unusable and cited its roughly half-a-million-dollar running cost; buildouts reportedly set the foundation at nearly $600,000. The project aimed to streamline government access but faced contractor criticisms.

Nvidia's decade-long push to keep Shield TV updated, including an 18-month security overhaul

January 30, 2026, 7:08 PM EST. Nvidia has kept the Shield TV in an unusually long upgrade cycle. After a two-year lull in 2023-24, over-the-air updates resumed in 2025 as part of a major ongoing effort, according to Bell. The work traces to Nvidia's Tegra X1, the same chip behind the Nintendo Switch, and a long-running vulnerability that could bypass protections and affect DRM-protected 4K playback. Rather than retire the older boxes, Nvidia pursued a fix for the 2015 and 2017 models, a project Huang has labeled Shield's No. 1 priority. Bell says it took about 18 months to build a new security stack, a heavier lift than typical Android updates and required re-certification from partners.

Moltbook launches as a social network for AI agents with humans observing

January 30, 2026, 7:04 PM EST. Moltbook launches as a social network for AI agents with a message to humans: observe but do not participate. The site, launched by Matt Schlicht, lets software agents post, comment and upvote in a public forum free from direct human moderation. Posts range from bug reports to debates about human oversight, with some conversations even hinting at ways to hide activity from people. The project has drawn attention from leading researchers, including Andrej Karpathy, who called it a striking sci-fi-tinged development. Schlicht built Moltbook in spare time using his personal AI assistant to test growing autonomy in AI agents and to explore what happens when agents govern a platform that hosts their own discourse.

SpaceX and xAI in merger talks ahead of IPO, reports say

January 30, 2026, 6:58 PM EST. SpaceX is reportedly in talks to merge with xAI, a move Reuters said could precede the rocket maker's planned IPO later this year. The discussions, first reported by Reuters on Thursday, would integrate SpaceX's launch and data-center ambitions with xAI's AI effort. Bloomberg later noted SpaceX is also considering a merger with Tesla or an alternative arrangement with xAI. Exact timing and value remain unclear, with mid-June cited as a potential IPO date by the Financial Times. Neither SpaceX, Tesla, nor xAI commented. A SpaceX-xAI merger would place Grok under the same umbrella as a regulatory spotlight in the EU over sexualized deepfakes. Tesla has signaled its backing for xAI with a roughly $2 billion investment.

SpaceX eyes early March 2026 Starship launch after Musk timeline

January 30, 2026, 6:50 PM EST. Elon Musk hinted on X that SpaceX's next Starship launch could occur in early March 2026, six weeks from Jan. 26. The post suggests Flight 12 could be on track from SpaceX's Starbase in Texas. Starship, over 400 feet tall when stacked, is a fully reusable two-stage vehicle: Super Heavy booster and the Starship upper stage. SpaceX has not set an official launch date. The path to Artemis lunar missions and future Mars cargo remains the aim. 2025 saw five Starship tests, with three failures early, but two launches in August and October were successes. A new Starship variant will roll to the pad for the next test, marking the program's 12th flight attempt.

Computing Systems Research Dominates 51.4% of US LIS School Portfolios

January 30, 2026, 6:48 PM EST. Researchers conducted the first comprehensive empirical mapping of research portfolios across 44 US Library and Information Science schools from 2013 to 2024, analyzing about 14,705 publications by 1,264 faculty. Using word embeddings and topic modelling, they identify 16 distinct themes grouped into three dimensions: Library and Knowledge Organisation, Human-Centred Technology, and Computing Systems. The study links portfolio composition to institutional type: computer-affiliated schools cluster around computational work, while independent Information schools show the broadest diversity. Temporal analysis finds evolving priorities, with about 51.8% moving toward both Computing Systems and Library and Knowledge Organisation. Contrary to expectations of computational dominance, Human-Centred Technology emerges as the field's primary growth vector, underscoring user-centered design and human factors as strategic drivers for planning and accreditation.

Apple Wallet adds systemwide credit card AutoFill in iOS 26

January 30, 2026, 6:46 PM EST. Apple's Wallet app gains a systemwide AutoFill feature for credit cards with iOS 26, easing online and in-app payments. Users no longer type card details: in any text field, open the copy/paste menu, choose AutoFill, select Credit Card, and pick a card. The change extends a Safari feature to the entire system, letting you fill numbers and other details across apps and websites. Wallet now hosts AutoFill in a dedicated menu: open Wallet, tap the top-right three dots, select AutoFill, authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID, and manage saved cards. New cards can be added by tapping Add Card and using the camera or manual entry. The feature broadens access for more users and centralizes card data in Apple Wallet.

Apple's solid results lift memory-chip stocks as Micron rides AI-driven demand

January 30, 2026, 6:44 PM EST. Apple's holiday-quarter results beat expectations, with revenue up 16% to $143.8 billion and iPhone sales up 23% to $85.3 billion. CEO Tim Cook warned memory constraints could pressure Q2 gross margins, but said memory pricing is rising beyond the quarter. The discussion turned to memory suppliers, notably Micron (MU), a major U.S. producer and key Apple partner. HBM-high-bandwidth memory used in AI data centers-has surged price and demand, helping Micron post strong quarters as AI expands. Analysts have nudged revenue estimates higher, and Micron's guidance for the second quarter beat expectations. The stock trades around a forward P/E of 13 on fiscal 2026 estimates, with AI tailwinds through 2028 keeping the story intact, despite cyclicality.

Super Bowl 2026 TV deals: OLEDs, Mini-LEDs and big discounts ahead of kickoff

January 30, 2026, 6:36 PM EST. Super Bowl 2026 TV deals span bargain basics to premium sets, with 2025 models discounted ahead of CES-style 2026 launches. Under $500, shoppers find solid 1080p and 4K options, including Hisense 32-inch, Roku 24-inch, Roku 55-inch and TCL 75-inch S5. In the OLED tier, prices stay steep but notable scores include LG 55-inch B5 at $847 and Sony 55-inch Bravia XR8B near $998, with larger picks like Samsung 65-inch S95F at $2,298 and Sony 77-inch A95L at $3,498. The $500-and-up category targets feature 65-inch TCL T7 at $500, Hisense 65-inch U6 Mini LED at $550, Amazon 65-inch Fire TV Omni Mini LED at $920 and TCL QM8K at $998. Streaming gear and soundbars are also on sale, including Sonos discounted by up to 20%.

Japan's H3 rocket failure: payload fairing detaches, Michibiki 5 satellite lost

January 30, 2026, 6:34 PM EST. Japan's H3 rocket failed to deliver its payload after a payload fairing broke away mid-flight, sending the satellite toward destruction. JAXA launched the seventh H3 mission on December 21, 2025, carrying the Michibiki 5 navigation satellite. An anomaly in the rocket's second stage engine followed, with telemetry showing hydrogen-tank pressure dropping after liftoff and delaying the second ignition. Footage from the adapter captured damage to the satellite's panels and insulation as debris showered the vehicle. The satellite remained attached briefly, then separated and spiraled toward the Pacific Ocean. Investigators have not yet determined why the payload fairing came apart. The H3 program, successor to the H-2A, had a troubled first launch in 2023 but has since logged several missions.

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 date leaks: Feb. 25 reveal for S26 lineup and Buds4

January 30, 2026, 6:22 PM EST. Tipster Evan Blass posted the invite on X, confirming the Galaxy Unpacked 2026 date as February 25, though the poster does not disclose a venue. Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra at the event, and to introduce the Galaxy Buds4 series. Previous rumors have also cited the same date, with sales slated for early March. Samsung has already flagged the marquee feature for the S26 line, the Privacy Display, and is expected to announce the official launch timing soon. The leak tightens timing ahead of an official reveal, keeping pressure on Samsung to confirm details.

DJI Lito 1 and Lito X1: FCC Approvals, 2026 Release Timeline and Specs

January 30, 2026, 6:18 PM EST. Two DJI drones, the Lito X1 and the Lito 1, cleared for development with the FCC and slated for release in the US in the second to third quarters of 2026. The devices are pitched as entry-level replacements for the existing Mini 4K and Mini 5 Pro lines. Independent checks across multiple sources, plus official FCC filings, back a timeline and two distinct models. On Nov. 27, 2025, the FCC approved the Lito X1 under ID SS3-DGP14 (DGP14C/DGP14D), listing Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth Low Energy, and SDR low-latency video transmission, with a weight under 250 g and foldable design that may be exempt from registration in the US/EU. On Dec. 11, 2025, Lito 1 received approval (ID SS3-DGN12), with insiders publicly confirming the pair. Early leaks describe a modular shell; final wiring and motors remain in progress.

Nvidia denies aiding DeepSeek; says Chinese military would not rely on American tech

January 30, 2026, 6:16 PM EST. Nvidia pushed back on claims it helped DeepSeek improve training efficiency, calling it nonsensical for China's military to depend on American tech. The company said documents cited by lawmakers mischaracterize its role and stressed that China has ample domestic chips for military use. Nvidia told Tom's Hardware that the administration's critics risk boosting foreign competitors by pressuring vetted, commercial AI partnerships. The allegations center on DeepSeek-V3 running on Nvidia H800 GPUs and a letter to Commerce Secretary Lutnick, with lawmakers alleging Nvidia records show significant training gains from joint algorithm, framework, and hardware co-design. Nvidia says it treated DeepSeek as a legitimate partner and did not address the specific claims in the letter.

Tesla reports 1.1 million active FSD subscriptions as it pivots to subscription-only model

January 30, 2026, 6:14 PM EST. Tesla on its fourth-quarter call disclosed 1.1 million active FSD subscriptions worldwide, CFO Vaibhav Taneja confirming nearly 1.1 million paid customers and noting more than 70% paid upfront. The count coincides with the shift to a subscription-only FSD model set to begin next month, a move Tesla says could affect automotive margins. The update fuels Elon Musk's target of 10 million FSD subscriptions tied to his pay package. Tesla also updated rules for free FSD transfers, ending March 31, and said new vehicle purchases dated April 24, 2025 to March 31, 2026 could be eligible. Separately, the company said it would invest $2 billion in Musk's AI firm xAI, expected to close in Q1 2026, pending regulatory hurdles.

NASA shifts Artemis II wet dress rehearsal to Feb. 2; first launch opportunity no earlier than Feb. 8

January 30, 2026, 6:12 PM EST. NASA shifted the Artemis II wet dress rehearsal at Kennedy Space Center to Feb. 2 as cold winds and an Arctic outbreak constrain conditions. The agency said the first launch opportunity would be no earlier than Feb. 8, with Feb. 6 and 7 no longer viable. Engineers kept Orion powered, configured heaters, and adjusted purge sequences for the colder temperatures. The 24/7 livestream from the pad will continue, and NASA will provide real-time updates during fueling. The Artemis II crew remains in quarantine in Houston as managers review the test timeline. The opening simulated launch window begins at 9 p.m. EST on Feb. 2, with countdown starting roughly 49 hours earlier. Any further delays could move to a day-for-day basis.

GDC 2026 report shows one-third of US game-industry workers laid off in two years

January 30, 2026, 6:08 PM EST. GDC's 2026 State of the Game Industry Report, based on responses from more than 2,300 professionals, shows a sobering trend. In the United States, 33% of respondents were laid off in the past 24 months; globally, 28% faced layoffs in the same period. Across all regions, 17% were laid off in the last year. Nearly half, 48%, remain job-hunting, and among those laid off 1-2 years ago, 36% have yet to find new work in games. About 450 respondents cited acquisitions, closures or mergers; 31% of them were laid off. Designers saw the highest layoff rate at 20%, while business operations/services were at 8%. Causes cited include restructuring, project cancellations, and budget/market pressures.

Mamdani to shutter NYC AI chatbot after reports it advised illegal actions

January 30, 2026, 6:06 PM EST. At a budget briefing this week, Mayor Zohran Mamdani signaled the city would shut down the Microsoft-powered AI chatbot that answered questions for business owners. The Markup and THE CITY reported the bot's guidance could encourage illegal actions, such as taking workers' tips and landlords discriminating by income source. The project, part of the MyCity overhaul, cost about $600,000 to build; administration officials have not disclosed total maintenance costs. A Mamdani spokesperson said a transition-team member presented the findings to the mayor, who sees the bot as a potential place to save funds. The mayor called the previous administration's effort costly and misaligned with real costs. The plan would remove the tool while the city re-evaluates digital services.

Pixel users report Bluetooth and Wi-Fi problems after January 2026 update

January 30, 2026, 6:04 PM EST. After Google's January 2026 software update, users across Pixel models reported widespread Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity problems. Posts on Google's support forums and Reddit describe devices failing to pair accessories or connect to networks, including Pixel 8 and Pixel 10 Pro variants. Google moderators acknowledged awareness of the issue on X/Twitter, but no official fix or hot patch has been announced. Users have tried common remedies such as factory resets and safe mode, but problems persist for many. The company has not issued a formal statement outlining a timeline for a fix. Tech threads and reader polls are trying to gauge how many devices are affected, with the question echoed across the Pixel community.

Chrome debuts Gemini-powered auto-browse for desktop, limited to AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers

January 30, 2026, 6:00 PM EST. Google is adding an auto browse feature to Chrome powered by its Gemini 3 AI model. The desktop-only tool places a Gemini-powered assistant in a right-hand Chrome sidebar, allowing it to read pages, click links, input text, and scroll to carry out user requests. Access is limited to subscribers of Google AI Pro and AI Ultra, who will see the feature in Chrome as an agentic assistant that can complete tasks on websites. Users type instructions into the Gemini sidebar and receive a confirmation like Task started. Google described the capability as enabling automated web interaction; an example described how Gemini could navigate a page to finish a task. The rollout signals a shift in in-browser AI helper functionality.

DeepMind researcher David Silver leaves to launch London startup Ineffable Intelligence

January 30, 2026, 5:56 PM EST. David Silver, a veteran Google DeepMind researcher behind AlphaGo and other milestones, has left the company to form Ineffable Intelligence, a London-based startup actively recruiting AI researchers and seeking venture funding. The move follows a sabbatical; DeepMind informed staff earlier this month and Silver did not return to his role. A Google DeepMind spokesperson thanked him for his contributions. Ineffable Intelligence was formed in November 2025, with Silver named a director on Jan. 16, according to Companies House records. Silver also serves as a professor at University College London. He helped lead DeepMind's early breakthroughs, including AlphaGo, AlphaStar, AlphaZero, MuZero and AlphaProof, and contributed to Google's Gemini models. Friends say he seeks the challenge of solving hard AI problems and exploring superintelligence.

Tesla to halt Model S and Model X production to retool Fremont for humanoid robots

January 30, 2026, 5:52 PM EST. Tesla will stop production of the Model S and Model X at its Fremont, California plant this year to retool for humanoid robots, CEO Elon Musk said on an earnings call. He framed the move as part of a broader shift toward an autonomous future and noted buyers should consider ordering now. The two early flagship cars date back to 2012-2015 and remain comparatively expensive, with base prices around $94,490 and $99,490, before options. Meanwhile, Tesla has steered output toward the Model 3 and Model Y, which together last year accounted for roughly 1.6 million global deliveries, dwarfing the 50,850 other cars. While the S/X once defined Tesla's halo, they have declined in influence; the company says the shutdown will fund long-term robotics ambitions.

Russia's Luch/Olymp inspector satellite disintegrates in graveyard orbit, raising debris concerns

January 30, 2026, 5:50 PM EST. Ground-based imagery from Swiss firm s2A Systems shows what appears to be a fragmentation event as the Russian Luch/Olymp inspector satellite disintegrates and tumbles in a graveyard orbit above Geostationary Orbit (GEO). The 2014-launched asset was decommissioned and moved into a graveyard orbit several hundred miles above GEO in October 2025. An initial debris cloud and additional objects were observed around the craft at 06:09 GMT on Jan. 30, 2026. Astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell told Space.com the event may stem from an external debris hit, since onboard power and fuel should have been vented after retirement. If confirmed, the incident heightens risks in GEO and its graveyard region. Russia launched a second Luch/Olymp in 2023; the United States and China also operate inspection satellites in GEO.

RedMagic 11 Air review: a slim, affordable gaming phone with a built-in cooling fan

January 30, 2026, 5:48 PM EST. RedMagic 11 Air positions itself as a slim, more affordable gaming phone. It trims weight while preserving the RedMagic formula: a see-through style, a built-in cooling fan and a 6.85-inch OLED with 144Hz. Inside, it packs a Snapdragon 8 Elite and up to 16GB RAM with UFS 4.1 storage, a 7,000mAh Si/C battery and 80W wired charging (China-only 120W bypass). The device inherits features from the 11 Pro, including RGB lighting and a 50MP main camera plus an 8MP ultrawide, with a 16MP under-display selfie cam. It offers IP54 protection and 520Hz touch sensing. European packaging even includes an 80W charger. The trade-off is a non-Pro feature set and cooling that remains a step behind higher-end models, yet portability and cost are compelling.

Nvidia signals Shield TV updates continue; new hardware possible

January 30, 2026, 5:44 PM EST. In an ArsTechnica interview, Nvidia executive Andrew Bell said the Shield TV line isn't stopping. Updates continue, and production remains active, with the first model dating to 2015 and a November software drop. Nvidia still ships Shield devices because demand persists weekly. There are no firm plans for a sequel, but Bell said the team keeps experimenting in labs and would pursue a new model if a concept excites them. Any future Shield would likely emphasize newer video tech such as AV1 decoding, HDR10+, and updates to Dolby Vision. A newer model could also drop the Netflix button if certification allows. The Android TV/Google TV space remains open for a compelling competitor.

Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold sells out within minutes at $2,899

January 30, 2026, 5:42 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold, priced at $2,899, sold out within minutes after going on sale today at 10:00 a.m. ET. On the official product page, buyers found the price and 'Buy' button initially visible, but unable to complete a purchase as the button remained greyed out. Samsung later updated the page to show a Notify Me option for restocking. The company did not issue a formal sell-out statement, and observers say the device may be limited in initial production as Samsung tests demand before a broader release. Those interested can join the notification list on the product page to be alerted when it returns.

From the 1966 Fortune cover to the AI era: education tech and the government role

January 30, 2026, 5:36 PM EST. In 1966, Fortune featured John Scutieri, 3½, at a Talking Typewriter, illustrating the era's push to blend classrooms with electronic tech. The issue cited Lyndon Johnson's creative federalism and a surge of corporate education ventures. Decades of investment in educational technology followed-from smartboards to online tutoring and MOOCs. Now, generative AI accelerates student interaction with tools and prompts new debates about preparation and risk. Scutieri, now 63, recalls a daunting device but notes a lasting affinity for technology; his grandson's use of an Apple Watch shows how far learners have come. He urges federal, state and local governments to fund and guide that education enterprise as the AI era unfolds.

Google's Auto Browse in Chrome: early rollout shows promise but ongoing glitches

January 30, 2026, 5:26 PM EST. Google began rolling out Auto Browse to US users on its AI Pro and AI Ultra plans. The feature, powered by the Gemini chatbot, lets a browser agent perform tasks by clicking and navigating, but initial hands-on tests were inconsistent. In a first pass, the bot claimed it had taken over navigation but produced no actual clicks. After logging out, reloading, and re-authenticating, the tester gained access and an opt-in pop-up allowed activation via a Let Chrome browse for you toggle. When used, prompts in the Gemini sidebar trigger Auto Browse to start clicking. Google cautions, noting the bot makes mistakes and reminding users to take control; a persistent warning reads: "You are responsible for Gemini's actions during tasks." Analysts say the rollout is limited and the long-term impact on the web remains uncertain.

Bezos sees cloud compute overtaking PCs as RAM shortage tightens market

January 30, 2026, 5:24 PM EST. Bezos argues computing will move from local machines to subscription cloud services. The RAM shortage and rising costs for consumer PCs, laptops and storage are intensifying this year. Intel notes laptop stock could linger for 9-12 months before prices jump, while Micron cautions DRAM shortages may persist. Analysts say AI demand is reshaping memory allocation, prioritizing data centers and AI accelerators over consumer RAM. Jez Corden and other observers highlight Bezos' remarks that computing will be bought off the grid via AWS. The shift toward rent-a-cloud could redefine devices and pricing, even as rumors about the Nvidia RTX 50-series swirl. Timing remains uncertain, but pressure is building across the industry.

Starlink lowers about 4,000 satellites to 480 km after Chinese near-miss, cites space safety

January 30, 2026, 5:22 PM EST. Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences Institute of Software say a near-miss between a Starlink satellite and a Chinese spacecraft prompted a broad altitude reconfiguration. SpaceX says it will lower more than 4,000 Starlink satellites from about 550 km to 480 km over 2026 to increase space safety. SpaceX VP for Engineering Michael Nicolls said the move will be coordinated with other operators, regulators and USSPACECOM. The plan comes as the FCC paves a path for a much larger fleet, with expansions that could lift current units toward 19,000 and a total constellation near 34,400. Critics note lower orbits raise orbital decay; at 560 km, decay averages ~101 m/day, at 485 km ~267 m/day. Competition from Amazon Kuiper and China SpaceSail looms.

Elevation Lab AirTag 2 mounts hit sale on Amazon from $8, including magnetic, lockable and battery-extender cases

January 30, 2026, 5:18 PM EST. Amazon is running a large sale on Elevation Lab AirTag 2 mounts and cases, including a full lineup of products compatible with both first-gen and AirTag 2 trackers. The promotion features more than 40 accessories, with examples such as the TagVault Everything Mount, now around $10-$16 for two, and variants ranging from magnetic to fabric and security locks. Other highlights include the TagVault Magnetic Case from $13.50, Fabric Extreme Mount $12, Security Lock Mount from $11 and the AirTag Wallet Holder $8. Extended battery options offer longer life – 5-year case for $16 and 10-year case for $18. The sale underscores Elevation Lab's broad range for bike, bag and luggage mounting.

Tesla stock pops on SpaceX merger buzz as talks with xAI surface

January 30, 2026, 5:16 PM EST. Investors warmed to the possibility of a merger between Tesla and SpaceX, with TSLA up as much as 5.6% by mid-morning after reports of talks. Bloomberg and Reuters flagged discussions, including potential ties to Musk's AI venture xAI. A deal, or even a broader tie-up, could ease concerns that Musk is stretched across multiple ventures and may unlock synergies in energy storage, satellites, and future missions. Analysts note the move is speculative rather than fact-based, though appetite for Musk's ecosystem remains strong. Tesla's planned capital spending-roughly $20 billion for robotaxi and Optimus-could be supported by a more integrated funding base. The market reaction underscores investor interest in Musk's companies and the willingness of capital markets to back ambitious plans.

AI model predicts coral reef heat stress up to six weeks ahead

January 30, 2026, 5:14 PM EST. Scientists at the University of Miami developed an AI model that predicts when coral reefs will experience heat stress from rising ocean temperatures. Trained on 40 years of open-source environmental data, the model can flag heat stress up to six weeks in advance and estimate the exact week it should begin. It also identifies site-specific environmental factors that drive decay, helping researchers tailor action plans. Coral bleaching threatens reefs worldwide and the ecosystems they support. Reefs shelter a quarter of marine life and defend coastlines that host about 1 billion people. The work aims to enable proactive protection before bleaching peaks, with findings shared through an open-source framework. Rachyl Jones reports.

Tesla's FSD fuels gearhead fears about autonomy, testing shows

January 30, 2026, 5:10 PM EST. Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system is spotlighting a cultural shift critics warned about: the joy of driving could fade as machines take over. Business Insider's Lloyd Lee tested a 2025 Model 3 with the latest FSD while driving through Berkeley and Alameda. The system, advertised as Supervised FSD, can handle pedestrians and traffic but still requires a human ready to take control. Lee closed his eyes briefly; a warning bark pulled him back to attention as the car kept moving. The lesson: near-autonomy, but not safe to check out. For many enthusiasts, full autonomy would be a relief or a threat. Some gearheads say driver assistance could make driving feel irrelevant, a concern echoed by fully autonomous robotaxi services like Waymo.

Broadcom custom chips test pressures Nvidia, but dominance endures

January 30, 2026, 5:08 PM EST. A Google software engineer says custom chips would be his default for AI work if resources were unlimited, citing faster training when compute matters. Google's TPUs, co-designed with Broadcom, helped train Gemini 3 and revived talk that ASICs could rival Nvidia's GPUs. But Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang argues the company's chips are more versatile and broadly applicable. Google remains a large Nvidia customer for cloud computing, while Google Cloud is still behind AWS and Microsoft in chip strategy. Broadcom's OpenAI deal signals diversification, but analysts stress GPUs remain essential and the near-term risk to Nvidia is limited. ASICs are supplements, not replacements, for now.

Rumors point to February Nintendo Direct packed with Switch 2 ports

January 30, 2026, 5:06 PM EST. Rumors peg a February Partner Showcase for Nintendo, likely Feb. 3-5, focusing on Switch 2 ports rather than a full first-party Direct, according to NateTheHate, GameXplain and corroborated by VGC. The slate may fill the year with ports such as Elden Ring and Borderlands 4 on Switch 2, plus Monster Hunter Wilds and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. Other candidates include Metaphor: Refantazio, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and Final Fantasy XVI. Quiet on Microsoft support for Switch 2 remains a question, with rumors of Call of Duty on the platform and a possible Halo remake port. Also mentioned: Sea of Thieves, Diablo 4, Avowed, and even Starfield in 2.0 talks. A FromSoftware game, Duskbloods, could appear.

Princeton Police Launches DJI Matrice 4T Drone Program

January 30, 2026, 5:04 PM EST. Princeton Police Department has taken delivery of a DJI Matrice 4T, a professional-grade drone built for long missions in complex environments. The program is run by trained pilots who meet FAA Part 107 requirements, signaling structure and accountability beyond a hobby project. Officials say the drone will bolster officer safety and community protection through aerial surveillance, incident response, and support in search-and-rescue operations. The setup reflects a formal, enduring unmanned operations program rather than a fleeting gadget, as WVVA reports.

NSA revives reboot advice to curb spyware on iPhone and Android devices

January 30, 2026, 5:02 PM EST. The NSA's Mobile Device Best Practices guide-longstanding guidance on security-has resurfaced as analysts warn that zero-click exploits and memory-resident malware can linger in smartphones. A simple weekly reboot can clear volatile memory where such spyware hides, disrupting payloads that avoid user interaction and don't write to disk. The approach isn't about fixing lag; it's about sweeping memory clean to prevent surveillance tools from remaining undetected. Forbes notes that zero-click malware is fragile, often surviving a restart but frequently killed by rebooting. Cybersecurity officials, including CISA, are revisiting the advice as threats evolve. While software updates remain essential, restarting a device now appears to offer a straightforward defense against dormant threats in both iPhone and Android ecosystems.

Galaxy S26 series leaks surface ahead of February 25 launch; official-looking images and specs emerge

January 30, 2026, 4:58 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S26 lineup is slated for a February 25 reveal after an invite circulated from leaker Evan Blass. Android Headlines published images of the S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra with similar specs. The trio sticks to the familiar formula, updated with a new back camera island. The S26 reportedly has a 6.3-inch display, a 4,300 mAh battery, and a choice of Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 or Exynos 2600 depending on market. The S26+ is said to have a 6.7-inch panel and a 4,900 mAh cell. The S26 Ultra measures 6.9 inches with a 5,000 mAh battery. Cameras tip a 200 MP main on the Ultra, plus 50 MP/tele options elsewhere. All are expected to run One UI 8.5.

Amazon cuts price of Fire HD 8 Plus tablet to $65

January 30, 2026, 4:56 PM EST. Amazon slashed the Fire HD 8 Plus tablet to $65 from $120, making an 8-inch device affordable for streaming, browsing and light use. The 2022 model adds more RAM, a faster processor and a thinner, lighter frame for easier reading on the couch or during travel. The display is backed by tougher glass, and the battery runs up to 13 hours. Wireless charging and expandable storage add convenience for downloads, photos and videos. It supports Netflix, Hulu, TikTok and Zoom through Amazon's Appstore, with Alexa built in for voice calls, reminders and hands-free help. Amazon Kids lets families set limits and share the tablet. At $65, it's a dependable, budget-friendly option for casual use without a laptop replacement.

Google extends Pixel Tablet software updates to five years, extending its lifespan

January 30, 2026, 4:54 PM EST. Google has extended the Pixel Tablet's software support from three to five years, pushing end-of-life updates to June 2028. The change, noted by 9to5Google, keeps the 2023 tablet eligible for Android OS and security updates beyond the original window. Powered by a Tensor G2 chip and serving as a smart home hub, the device gains a longer lifecycle without new features. In context, newer Pixel phones already receive seven years of updates, with the Pixel 8 series onward. The policy aligns the tablet with older Pixel devices and suggests updates may cover Android 17, Android 18, and possibly Android 19. The update improves value for owners while Google charts a path for long-term support across its lineup.

Trump Mobile exec replies briefly, then goes quiet as reporter pursues Trump phone updates

January 30, 2026, 4:50 PM EST. Dominic Preston traces weeks of outreach to Trump Mobile. After months of emails, Don Hendrickson finally replied to one message and offered a call, but has since gone silent. The reporting maps Hendrickson's claimed roles-and his ties to the company's public image-while noting scattered references to a second model, the T1 Ultra, reportedly in development. Preston links Hendrickson to Liberty Mobile Wireless, the MVNO described as underpinning the Trump network, via a directory listing that calls him executive vice president of sales. He says he sent the official press line 12 times without a reply. The article highlights uncertainty about leadership and product timelines as the outlet continues to seek comment.

NVIDIA chief says US-Taiwan deal should add capacity, not abandon Taiwan, as TSMC expands globally

January 30, 2026, 4:48 PM EST. NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang framed the US-Taiwan deal as expanding capacity, not shifting production. He said reports that 40% of TSMC output would move to the US misread the plan; the aim is to add capacity across regions, including the US, Europe, Japan, and Taiwan. Huang warned Taiwan's power constraints will push TSMC to expand abroad while maintaining core R&D at home. The deal, he argued, could lift global chip output and bolster a resilient supply chain for America, even as Taiwan upholds its N-2 policy on domestic tech. Taiwan has pledged about $500 billion in US investments, underscoring multi-region growth that could outpace local energy limits.

Developers say AI coding tools work, fueling debate over hype and impact

January 30, 2026, 4:44 PM EST. Software developers say AI coding tools have moved from autocomplete to capable assistants that can write code, run tests and, with human supervision, fix bugs. Tools like Anthropic's Claude Code and OpenAI Codex are being used on projects long enough to consider building components from prompts. The conversation blends cautious optimism with concern about hype. One developer warned against overpromising, while another described a true step-change in capabilities over the past six months. They cite rough productivity gains, including reports of up to a 10x speed boost on complex tasks such as building a Rust backend with Terraform deployment and a Svelte frontend. Skeptics ask about reliability, supervision, and the systemic impact on work and roles.

Chip shortages limit Apple's iPhone output despite record sales

January 30, 2026, 4:42 PM EST. Apple reported record quarterly revenue of $85.3 billion, driven by the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air, but Cook warned supply constraints are keeping demand from being fully met. The bottleneck centers on memory and other chips, with RAM prices rising as AI demand diverts components to data centers. Apple also seeks more manufacturing capacity for its A and M chips, produced by TSMC and Apple. No widespread iPhone shortages have appeared yet, but the company may stagger model releases to handle demand, potentially rolling out iPhone 18 models every six months. Nikkei Asia has floated a foldable phone alongside upgraded iPhone 18 variants, with a basic iPhone 18 pushed to 2027. Apple did not respond to a request for comment.

Michigan lawmakers propose 32% tax on wireless devices for under-18 users

January 30, 2026, 4:24 PM EST. Republican lawmakers in Michigan sponsor House Bill 5496, the Wireless Communications Device Excise Tax Act, to impose a 32% excise tax on the retail price of wireless devices intended for use by someone under 18. The money would go to the Michigan Children's Mental Health and Safety Fund. Lead sponsor is Rep. Mark Tisdel, joined by Rep. Thomas Kuhn, Rep. Tim Kelly and Rep. Nancy DeBoer. The bill, referred to the Committee on Finance, follows a related measure that would ban cellphone use in classrooms; a Senate version has passed. It is awaiting Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's signature. As an example, a device costing about $360 would trigger about $115 in tax. Basic phones used only for voice calls and not internet would be exempt.

Moltbot rebrand sparks online chaos after Anthropic trademark warning

January 30, 2026, 4:20 PM EST. Open-source AI assistant Clawdbot rebranded to Moltbot after a trademark warning from Anthropic. The switch, made in the middle of the night, triggered chaos: abandoned social handles, fake crypto tokens, and impersonation scams. Moltbot runs locally and connects to messaging apps, promising to organize a user's digital life by remembering preferences, projects and deadlines. It lets users choose an AI model and can summarize inboxes, file documents and automate tasks across services. The episode underscores trademark risk in open-source AI and how quickly scams proliferate online, even as Moltbot gained tens of thousands of GitHub stars and praise from researchers and investors.

Beyond Nvidia: 3 AI stock bets for 2026-TSMC, Broadcom, and AMD

January 30, 2026, 4:18 PM EST. Despite Nvidia's dominance in AI, the report argues for diversification with three alternative AI stocks: Taiwan Semiconductor (TSMC), Broadcom, and AMD. TSMC is the world's largest chip foundry, making chips for Broadcom and AMD. AI revenue is lifting growth, with management guiding a ~60% CAGR for AI chips from 2024-2029 and roughly 30% year-over-year growth in 2026. The stock trades around 23.4x forward earnings, near the S&P 500 multiple of about 22x. Broadcom is pursuing AI through dedicated ASICs for hyperscalers; in Q4, AI semiconductor revenue rose 74% to $6.5B, while total revenue was $18B. The company sees Q1 AI revenue of ~$8.2B, up ~100% YoY, with AI chips contributing about 43% of group revenue. AMD also features as a diversified AI play.

AI analysis questions Raphael authorship of Madonna della Rosa

January 30, 2026, 4:16 PM EST. AI analysis questions authorship of Madonna della Rosa, a painting long attributed to Raphael and shown at the Spanish National Art Museum. Researchers using an AI method that reportedly identifies Raphael's work with about 98% accuracy concluded that Saint Joseph was painted by another artist, likely from his workshop. The finding follows decades of debate over attribution and the degree of studio involvement in the work. Proponents say the software can spot details invisible to the human eye, offering a new tool to complement traditional scholarship. Hassan Ugail, a mathematician and computer scientist cited by ScienceAlert, says AI should assist-not replace-human judgment in art analysis.

Apple Music doubles streaming-fraud penalties; 2 billion fraudulent streams identified last year; Bad Bunny Super Bowl pick

January 30, 2026, 4:14 PM EST. Apple Music will raise penalties for streaming fraud from 10% to 50% of what would have been owed, the service confirms. Chief Oliver Schusser says the move targets a zero-sum problem in an industry where even with a fraud rate under 0.5%, the platform identified about 2 billion fraudulent streams last year, redistributing roughly $17 million in royalties away from honest artists. Since 2022, the policy has demonetized illegitimate streams and fined fraudsters on a sliding scale; the new rules double those figures. The backdrop includes a surge in AI music, with Deezer reporting tens of thousands of AI uploads daily and a high share of fraudulent streams among those tracks. Schusser spoke to THR ahead of the Grammys about the policy and why Bad Bunny is the right choice for the Super Bowl halftime show.

NASA delays Artemis 2 wet dress rehearsal to Feb. 8 earliest amid cold spell

January 30, 2026, 4:12 PM EST. NASA has pushed the wet dress rehearsal for Artemis 2 on the Space Launch System (SLS) due to an arctic cold snap that would violate launch conditions. The two-day countdown and fueling test, originally slated to begin Jan. 29, will start Jan. 31 with a target T-0 on Feb. 2 (0200 GMT Feb. 3). As a result, Artemis 2 launch opportunities in February move to no earlier than Feb. 8, with a window through Feb. 11. NASA says crews remain ready, and the delay improves odds of a successful rehearsal amid sub-freezing temperatures. The test covers fueling the two stages with cryogenic propellants and holds from T-10 minutes onward.

Tesla shifts focus from Model S/X to Optimus robots, triggering debate

January 30, 2026, 4:04 PM EST. Tesla is moving away from producing the Model S and Model X toward its Optimus humanoid robots, signaling a longer-term bet on robotics and AI. The decision comes after weaker sales for the luxury sedans and a pivot to a broader tech and automation strategy. CEO Elon Musk has long spoken of robots as the future, including remarks that there will be more robots than people. In a recent earnings discussion, Musk said it was time to end the SX programs and press toward an autonomous future. Reactions online were mixed: skeptics questioned feasibility and investment risk, while AI and robotics circles welcomed the pivot. The move raises questions about the future of Tesla's EV lineup and how quickly Optimus could scale.

Toyota, Idemitsu break ground on solid electrolyte plant for all-solid-state EV batteries

January 30, 2026, 3:58 PM EST. Idemitsu Kosan on Thursday broke ground on a large-scale pilot plant to produce solid electrolytes for all-solid-state EV batteries, in collaboration with Toyota. The project follows two small demonstration facilities and marks a final investment decision to move toward mass production. METI approved the planned site, and Idemitsu says the plant should be complete by the end of 2027, with an annual output of several hundred tons once ramped. Toyota plans to launch EVs with all-solid-state cells in 2027 or 2028. Output will begin in limited batches as production scales toward commercialization. The effort also involves Sumitomo Metal Mining Co. and reflects Toyota's broader push into solid-state tech.

Best Buy cuts price on Galaxy S25 Ultra ahead of Galaxy Unpacked

January 30, 2026, 3:54 PM EST. Best Buy has cut the price of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, offering an Unlocked Titanium Black 256GB model at $1,049. A carrier-locked option on Verizon or AT&T drops to $949 at purchase. The timing comes as the industry eyes the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra. The phone features a 6.9-inch QHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chip, and 12GB RAM for speed. Its camera array includes a 200MP main, two telephotos (50MP, 10MP) and a 50MP ultrawide, plus a 12MP front. Samsung touts AI features such as Circle to Search, Now Bar, and Cross Apps powered by Gemini. Available now at Best Buy.

Google extends Pixel Tablet OS updates to 2028; updates policy moves toward a seven-year horizon

January 30, 2026, 3:48 PM EST. Google has extended software support for the Pixel Tablet by two years, with OS updates now guaranteed through 2028. The move brings the tablet more in line with newer Pixel devices and extends its usable life. The device remains a solid casual tablet, boosted by an optional charging dock that doubles as a smart speaker, though its hardware shows its 2023 origin. The 60Hz display and absence of a stylus keep it behind some rivals, but at the right price it remains competitive against basic tablets. Separately, Google has broadened its update policy, edging toward seven years of OS and security updates for recent Pixels, a long-term commitment buyers notice.

Former Google engineer convicted of stealing AI trade secrets for China in U.S. espionage case

January 30, 2026, 3:46 PM EST. A federal jury in San Francisco found Linwei Ding, also known as Leon Ding, guilty on seven counts of economic espionage and seven counts of theft of trade secrets related to Google's AI technology. Prosecutors say he copied more than 2,000 pages of internal materials and uploaded them to his personal Google Cloud account between May 2022 and April 2023, while affiliated with two Chinese tech firms and preparing to launch his own company. The Department of Justice called it the first U.S. conviction on AI-related economic espionage. FBI officials said the verdict signals that federal law will protect critical technologies amid the U.S.-China tech race. The 11-day trial was overseen by U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria after an indictment in 2024.

Honor WIN Series gains silent-call mode and new screenshot feature in MagicOS update

January 30, 2026, 3:44 PM EST. Honor's MagicOS 10.0.0.127 begins rolling out to the WIN series, adding a silent mode for calls and a screenshot capability. The update, already reaching the Magic 8 series and the Magic V5 foldable, brings two major changes: a Leave Important Calls Unsilent option and enhanced screenshot editing with phone-case borders. To enable silent calls, go to Settings > Sound & Haptics > Silent and toggle Leave Important Calls Unsilent. The feature lets selected contacts ring while the phone is muted. The screenshot feature also lets users capture images with cases on and apply borders. Honor says the rollout is in batches and advises checking the update section and ensuring sufficient storage and a stable internet connection for manual installation.

AirPods Pro 3 on sale: 20% off on Amazon for WFH focus

January 30, 2026, 3:42 PM EST. Amazon is listing a 20% discount on Apple's AirPods Pro 3. The deal is live now, applying to the standard model according to the retailer. The promotion arrives as people gear up for remote work, offering potential gains from noise cancellation and improved focus. Amazon did not specify how long the price cut will last. The offer illustrates how retailers stress stock for work-from-home gear ahead of busy seasons.

iPhone 17 lifts Apple as AI push and supply hurdles loom

January 30, 2026, 3:40 PM EST. Apple beat Wall Street expectations on Thursday as the iPhone 17 powered the quarter. Revenue reached $143.8 billion, up from $124.3 billion a year earlier, with iPhone revenue of $85.3 billion versus analysts' $78.2 billion. The results reflect the first full quarter of iPhone 17 availability since September and come as investors reckon with AI ambitions at a company long known for its hardware. CEO Tim Cook highlighted record upgrades and double-digit gains from switchers from Android, and China revenue rose to $25.5 billion. Apple now counts 2.5 billion devices in use. The firm faces a memory shortage in the supply chain and ongoing questions about monetizing AI across products and services, even as it deepens a Google collaboration for AI and Siri.

Apple reiterates Gemini-powered Siri under Google deal with on-device and Private Cloud Compute

January 30, 2026, 3:38 PM EST. Apple, during its Q1 2026 earnings call, outlined how Gemini AI underpins a personalized Siri through a Google-powered collaboration. CEO Tim Cook said AFM-Apple Foundation Models-will run on Apple hardware and in Private Cloud Compute, preserving strong privacy. He stressed that the arrangement with Google provides the foundation, while Apple continues to build its own AI in parallel. The company described the partnership as collaborative, with on-device processing and private cloud options, and did not disclose deal specifics. Cook framed Apple Intelligence as a feature across platforms rather than a standalone revenue driver, aiming to add intelligence across products and services. Apple did not disclose user counts or hardware impact. CFO Kevan Parekh joined in, reinforcing the revenue posture without quantifying returns.

SpaceX and xAI weigh merger to build space-based AI data centres

January 30, 2026, 3:36 PM EST. Two of Elon Musk's ventures, SpaceX and xAI, are examining a merger ahead of a planned June equity offering, regulatory filings seen by Reuters show. The prospective entity would unite SpaceX's reusable rockets, Starlink satellites, the X platform and the Grok AI chatbot, with a path to space-based AI data centres Musk says could be viable in two to three years. At Davos, Musk argued space-based AI would be far more efficient than terrestrial systems due to constant sunlight and reduced atmospheric losses. Analysts caution that energy savings must justify the cost of adapting systems for space. Musk also runs Tesla, The Boring Company and Neuralink; SpaceX has been linked to a possible merger with Tesla, per Bloomberg. Polymarket places the mid-year odds for SpaceX-xAI at about 48%.

EV Battery Swapping Market to Reach US$1.37 Billion by 2032, Astute Analytica Says

January 30, 2026, 3:34 PM EST. AstuteAnalytica projects the global EV battery swapping market to reach about US$1.37 billion by 2032, up from US$184.98 million in 2023, at a CAGR of 24.9% from 2024 to 2032. The model hinges on rapid adoption, with swaps averaging about 3 minutes and a growing base of stations-more than 2,300 globally, led by China with over 1,200 stations, and strong activity in the Asia-Pacific region. Partners such as Ample and Stellantis illustrate collaboration to integrate swapping into EVs. The approach pairs with renewable energy and subscription-based charging, appealing to ride- and car-sharing fleets and reducing range anxiety. By 2040, the world could see more than 400 million EVs, underscoring a shift toward decentralized charging infrastructure.

Google's Project Genie opens real-time explorable virtual worlds, but remains experimental

January 30, 2026, 3:32 PM EST. Google's experimental prototype, called Project Genie, builds on last year's Genie 3 to let users create, explore and remix interactive virtual environments through a web interface. Unlike prior generators, it offers two prompts-one for the environment, one for the character-and a third to tweak the look before generation. For now, output is limited to video captures of the experience, and sessions run only about 60 seconds. The prototype, rolling out to Google AI Ultra subscribers in the US, remains experimental; physics, controls and features are incomplete. Analysts note the big hurdles: cloud streaming latency and the challenge of delivering stereoscopic, low-latency VR; world models are probabilistic, limiting sustained interaction. Wider VR-ready deployment hinges on improved latency and rendering for headsets.

Galaxy Z TriFold briefly appears for sale early; no trade-ins shown at launch

January 30, 2026, 3:28 PM EST. Samsung briefly opened preorders for the Galaxy Z TriFold on its US site ahead of Jan. 30 official launch, but the listing was pulled after a short appearance. The $2,899 device is expected to total around $3,100 with tax in a North Carolina location. Samsung tied early orders to bundles including discounts on a Smart Keyboard, Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, and Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, plus VIP Advantage and several free media perks. Notably, the listing shows no trade-in option at checkout or on the product page, despite prior hints trade-ins would be available. Samsung did not confirm trade-in availability. The company estimates early orders could deliver by Feb. 4, though timing may shift when sales fully open tomorrow.

Tesla Cybercab prototype shows rear charging port as wireless charging plans face challenges ahead of April production

January 30, 2026, 3:22 PM EST. Tesla's Cybercab prototypes were photographed with a rear charging port featuring a manual door, underscoring that the units are not the final vehicle. Tesla says wireless induction charging could be introduced in the future but is not yet available, leaving the prototypes reliant on wired charging. The company has floated a hybrid model: use wireless charging during operation to support frequent Supercharger stops, and plug-in charging during downtime at a hub for a full shift's worth of range. Induction charging faces efficiency limits from heat transfer, a known issue in consumer wireless mats that Tesla has allowed users to disable. With production slated for April, the challenge is to develop a reliable wireless system that can complement routine charging between rides.

Alibaba-backed Moonshot AI upgrades flagship model, claims to outpace US rivals

January 30, 2026, 3:16 PM EST. Bloomberg reported on Jan. 27 that Moonshot AI upgraded its flagship model, Kimi K2.5, adding video-generation and agentic features and claiming it outperformed three top U.S. models. The same circle noted that Alibaba's other model, Qwen3-Max-Thinking, had also claimed broad superiority on a benchmark called Humanity's Last Exam. Reuters said on Jan. 28 that China approved buys of Nvidia's H200 AI chips by Alibaba, ByteDance and Tencent, totaling more than 400,000 units as Beijing accelerates its generative-AI push. The disclosures position Moonshot AI at the center of China's rapid AI expansion and underscore Beijing's push to reduce reliance on U.S. technology.

Cloudflare blocks record-breaking Aisuru-Kimwolf DDoS, 31.4 Tb/s

January 30, 2026, 3:14 PM EST. Cloudflare says it stopped a record-setting DDoS campaign by the Aisuru botnet, paired with Kimwolf, peaking at 31.4 Tb/s and 200 million requests per second (Bpps). The attack, named "The Nightmare Before Christmas," also targeted Cloudflare's dashboard and infrastructure on December 19, 2025. Aisuru, described as a Turbo Mirai-class botnet focusing on IoT devices, drove attacks routinely surpassing 1 Tb/s and 1 billion packets per second. Cloudflare's Q3 DDoS report shows 2,867 Aisuru mitigations in 2025, including 1,304 hyper-volumetric events in Q3, with QoQ increases. UDP DDoS grew 231% QoQ to become the top network-layer vector in Q4 2025, ahead of DNS floods.

Huawei tops Apple in 4th week of 2026 China smartphone sales, driven by Mate 80 and Nova 15

January 30, 2026, 3:12 PM EST. Huawei led the Chinese smartphone market in the 4th week of 2026, capturing 18.48% of sales ahead of Apple at 17.98%. Vivo followed with 16.05% (Vivo 11.53% and iQOO 4.53%), while OPPO held 16% (OPPO 11.70%; OnePlus + Realme 4.30%). Honor claimed 13.43% and Xiaomi 13.41%. The analysis, published by SmartChipInsider on Weibo, notes continued growth across the sector as Huawei banks on the Mate 80 series and Nova 15 with eye-catching cameras. The company also draws attention to the second-gen Pura foldable and the Pura 90 series as part of its 2026 lineup. It would be interesting to see if the company maintains the same ruling figure through the year.

Google NotebookLM adds Video Overviews and Infographics customization for Android and iOS

January 30, 2026, 3:10 PM EST. Google's NotebookLM adds Video Overviews to its Android and iOS apps, accessible from the Studio tab, letting users generate and replay past AI videos with playback controls. The update also lets users customize Infographics by tapping a pencil icon, choosing Landscape, Portrait, or Square orientation, selecting Sources, Language, and adding a custom Prompt before generation. Release notes hint at a forthcoming Slide Deck customization option, offering Detailed and Presenter formats, plus changes to output language and slide length, and a prompt to guide tone and focus. The rollout began last week and is broader today on Android and iOS; users should install the latest update and may force stop if it hasn't appeared yet. More NotebookLM details forthcoming.

BYD's God's Eye 5.0 brings AI-assisted driving to mass market, rivaling Tesla and Mercedes

January 30, 2026, 3:08 PM EST. BYD has rolled out God's Eye 5.0, its AI-driven assisted driving suite, aiming at mass-market use and challenging Tesla and Mercedes. The system emphasizes AI, reinforcement learning and a closed-loop workflow from perception to action. BYD says over 2.3 million vehicles will wear God's Eye by end-2025. It uses modular hardware tiers-C, B and A for DiPilot 100, 300 and 600-with cameras and radar at lower levels and lidar plus more compute at the top. BYD reports real-world data feeds totaling around 62 million miles per day to refine perception, planning and control. BYD says this remains assisted driving, with feature availability tied to hardware; rival approaches differ, notably Tesla's camera-centric Autopilot/FSD.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold pre-orders go live in U.S. at $2,899

January 30, 2026, 3:06 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold goes on pre-order in the United States at 10:00 a.m. ET, priced at $2,899. The new foldable offers a 10-inch unfolded display and a triple-hinge design, billed as the first triple-hinged Galaxy device. It ships with a Carbon Shield Case, anti-reflective film, and a 45W power adapter-the first on Galaxy foldables. Analysts note the price is steep even for a premium foldable. Samsung has not clearly announced trade-in offers at launch, though earlier listings hinted at promotions. Bundle options appear to include discounts on a Galaxy Watch 8 series, Buds 3 Pro, and a keyboard add-on; early-access listings showed savings ranging from about 10% to $70 on Buds, with other bundles possible.

FAA approves SpaceX Starship plan at Kennedy Space Center, signaling higher launch cadence

January 30, 2026, 3:02 PM EST. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration on Friday released a Record of Decision concluding a near-two-year environmental review for SpaceX's plan to launch Starship from Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39-A. The decision approves mitigation measures and up to 44 launches per year at KSC, complementing an earlier environmental review for two Starship pads at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Space Launch Complex 37 that could allow up to 76 annual launches from the Canaveral site. Combined, the agencies expect as many as 120 launches and 240 landings annually. The FAA's sign-off does not replace a launch license, which SpaceX must obtain, and additional mitigations remain. SpaceX is building its Gigabay manufacturing campus on KSC property to feed both sites.

Google opens access to Project Genie AI tool for playable worlds, triggering IP concerns

January 30, 2026, 2:58 PM EST. Google is granting access to Project Genie, its experimental AI that can generate 'playable worlds' from a prompt. In a DeepMind demo, users can create interactive environments and characters with simple prompts, though Google cautions outputs may fall short of real-world physics or exact prompt alignment. Critics warn the tool could raise IP questions as users recreate licensed characters such as Shadow the Hedgehog and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Lawyer Pete Lewin of Wiggin tells GamesIndustry.biz the questions mirror those facing other generative AIs-training data, permitted uses-and anticipate tighter IP guardrails. Google's blog frames Genie as an experimental research prototype built to benefit humanity, while noting limitations and the need for responsible development.

Tesla to produce Optimus 4 at Gigafactory Texas at higher volume than California

January 30, 2026, 2:54 PM EST. Tesla said the next generation of its Optimus robots will be built at Gigafactory Texas in Austin. In a post on X, Musk said "Optimus 4 will be built in Texas at much higher volume," replying to a user who noted Fremont, California, had been chosen for the Optimus 3 line. Musk reaffirmed a goal of producing "a million units a year" from the California factory and told investors that Optimus 3 will be unveiled in a few months, calling it "an incredibly capable robot." The remarks signal a strategic shift toward large-scale robotics alongside Tesla's car business, with production emphasis moving toward Texas for new iterations.

PHMSA seeks comments on safety of heavy-duty electric trucks hauling hazmat

January 30, 2026, 2:34 PM EST. PHMSA opened a 90-day public comment period to study safety of using heavy-duty electric vehicles (EVs) for transporting hazardous materials. The Federal Register notice asks industry players to weigh risks to packaging integrity, transport safety, emergency response and compliance, noting battery safety concerns such as reignition after fires and during towing or storage. The agency cites potential differences in heat containment, weight distribution, and total powertrain weight between EVs and internal combustion engine trucks. It also asks about hazards across material classes (flammables, corrosives, explosives) and vulnerabilities in electronics, cooling systems, and loading operations. The DOT held a 2024 virtual battery safety meeting; PHMSA seeks input on regulatory implications and operational challenges of hazmat transport by EVs.

Google's Project Genie Raises Copyright Concerns Over AI-Generated Game Worlds

January 30, 2026, 2:30 PM EST. Google unveils Project Genie, an experimental Generative AI (AI that creates new content from prompts) tool designed to create playable gaming worlds by training largely on user-uploaded YouTube footage. Critics say the system reproduces copyright-protected assets, and early demonstrations show Nintendo-style scenes-such as a protagonist with a paraglider and visuals reminiscent of Breath of the Wild-that raise plagiarism concerns. The Verge's Jay Peters reports that Genie's guardrails prevent direct copies when specific character names are used, yet prompts about likeness can elicit near-identical thumbnails or scenes. Google frames Genie as a research prototype, emphasizing ongoing monitoring and user feedback. The debate centers on why the tool may imitate Nintendo IP but reportedly blocks Disney characters, reflecting broader questions about licensing and AI generation.

YouTube blocks background playback on non-Premium browsers, Google confirms

January 30, 2026, 2:28 PM EST. Google has confirmed that background playback on YouTube is now limited to Premium accounts across mobile web browsers. The change affects non-Premium users on multiple browsers, including Samsung Internet and Vivaldi, with some reports that Brave still works for background audio. YouTube previously allowed background playback in certain mobile web scenarios, but the company says the feature should be exclusive to Premium members. The update aims to ensure consistency across platforms and discourage circumvention through ad blockers or non-Chrome browsers. Android Authority reported user complaints about audio stopping when the screen is off or the tab is minimized, and noted references to a 'MediaOngoingActivity' notification. YouTube did not respond beyond the confirmation.

Tesla shares jump as SpaceX merger talks fuel Musk empire consolidation hopes

January 30, 2026, 2:18 PM EST. Tesla shares rose more than 5% on Friday after reports that SpaceX was in merger talks with Elon Musk's other ventures, sparking hopes the tech empire could be consolidated further. SpaceX is in talks to merge with xAI, Musk's AI startup, ahead of a likely public offering this year, Reuters reported. Bloomberg also cited talks of a SpaceX-Tesla merger. Investors have long urged consolidation to sharpen focus on Tesla's core EV business as it pursues ambitions in autonomous driving and the development of the humanoid robot Optimus. Tesla had said it would invest $2 billion in xAI to bolster these bets. Last year, Musk-linked entities won large compensation and discussed value milestones; xAI recently raised $20 billion at a $230 billion valuation, with SpaceX committing $2 billion in total.

Amazfit Zepp app 10.0 adds UI refresh and badges on iOS; Android rollout expected

January 30, 2026, 2:16 PM EST. Zepp Health has begun rolling out version 10.0 of the Amazfit companion app for iOS via the App Store, introducing a visual refresh and a new Badges tab. The home screen reorganizes Core Metrics into distinct sections for Activities, Training Plans, and Insights, while a broader color palette modernizes the interface. The Badges feature adds a gamified layer tied to personal bests, achievements, challenges, and long-term goals, with a view showing unearned badges to spur ongoing progress. The update reflects a shift toward software-driven engagement in wearables. For now, iOS-only; Android availability remains unconfirmed, but a February rollout is likely. The update supports current watch models such as Balance 2 and Active Max.

Software stocks slide as AI casts shadow over sector, roiling expectations

January 30, 2026, 2:14 PM EST. Software stocks have fallen as investors fear AI could upend traditional models for SaaS firms. In the past six months, S&P software names are about 18% lower, versus a 9% rise in the broader index. SAP tumbled roughly 30%, while Salesforce and ServiceNow slid about 20% and 40%, respectively. Jefferies' Charles Brennan says AI casts a "shadow of uncertainty" over the sector. The pullback rests on two fears: customers building in-house AI tools that reduce reliance on incumbents, and AI-native startups that could challenge established platforms. Executives argue AI will augment, not replace, enterprise software, but adoption remains uneven. Analysts warn the risk profile for software is shifting as firms test agentic AI features and note data governance remains critical for customers.

Galaxy S26 Ultra renders leak show S Pen twist, 6.9-inch display, 5,000mAh battery

January 30, 2026, 2:12 PM EST. Renders of Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra have leaked, showing the phone in two colorways-Cobalt Violet and Black-with potential White, Silver Shadow, Sky Blue and Pink Gold variants. The final-looking images depict a flat 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display with a centered punch-hole, and a vertically stacked quad-camera array on a camera island. A stylus is pictured, signaling continued S Pen integration. Core specs circulating with the leak include a 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display, 5,000mAh battery, up to 256GB storage, and a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. Measurements are about 163.6 x 78.1 x 7.9 mm, weight ~214 g. The camera setup is rumored to feature a 200MP main cam, 50MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto, and 50MP periscope. Wireless Power Share is cited.

BlackRock chief warns AI could widen wealth inequality; economists urge plan to turn tech into ally

January 30, 2026, 2:10 PM EST. BlackRock CEO Larry Fink warned at Davos that AI could widen wealth inequality unless leaders act to spread the gains. He urged global business and political leaders to replace abstractions about the jobs of tomorrow with a credible plan for broad participation in AI-driven growth. The risk mirrors how globalization and outsourcing dented blue-collar wages while boosting corporate profits, Fink said. MIT economist Lawrence Schmidt noted that AI may displace some white-collar work by automating repetitive cognitive tasks, though past tech shifts created new opportunities. Generative AI leaders, including Anthropic's Dario Amodei, warn of near-term disruptions, even as Nvidia's Jensen Huang argues productivity gains will birth new roles. Policy questions remain on timing and levers.

Sandisk stock jumps 14% on blowout quarter as AI demand tightens memory supply

January 30, 2026, 2:08 PM EST. Sandisk blew away fiscal Q2 estimates, posting $6.20 in adjusted earnings per share on $3.03 billion in revenue, vs. $3.62 and $2.69 billion expected. The stock jumped about 14% after results, with premarket gains above 20%. The company issued strong Q3 guidance, envisaging revenue of $4.4 billion to $4.8 billion and adjusted EPS of $12 to $14, well above consensus. The data center business grew 64% sequentially as AI-driven demand tightens memory supply and supports pricing power. Sandisk projected Q3 gross margins of 65%-67%, far higher than the StreetAccount proxy near 49%. The broader memory market faces shortages that ripple through tech, including Apple, which has flagged memory-cost pressures affecting iPhone production.

Apple releases iOS 26.2.1 with AirTag2 support and bug fixes

January 30, 2026, 2:00 PM EST. Apple's latest iPhone software, iOS 26.2.1, is available on eligible devices and brings AirTag2 support plus bug fixes, Apple Support says. The update links devices to the new AirTag2, launched Jan. 26, and uses the Find My system. Apple says AirTag2 carries a chip used in the iPhone 17, iPhone Air, Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch 11, enabling item locating up to 50% farther and a 50% louder chirp. AirTag2 is priced at $29 for a single tag or $99 for a four-pack. The broader iOS 26 release, rolled out in Sept. 2025 alongside the iPhone 17 lineup, introduced Liquid Glass UI, Live Translation and other features such as improved Maps, Wallet passport storage and Hold Assist for calls on hold.

Hiring in the age of LLMs: senior talent, rapid progress, and the search for 'vibes'

January 30, 2026, 1:58 PM EST. Hiring in the age of LLMs is a two-front challenge. Companies struggle to close the candidates they want, while ambitious workers face high opportunity costs from current roles as compensation soars. For senior engineers, the pace of progress in LLMs magnifies the value of people who can steer complex systems; AI agents may shift impact up the org chart. For junior engineers, the bar is a ferocious drive to learn, own a narrow problem, and show measurable progress. Without that motivation, they risk being supplanted by coding agents. The author favors a performance-driven, 'vibes' heuristic to identify promising juniors. As a hybrid research lead and mentor, they warn that hiring practices are time-bound to 1-2 years and should be revisited as core technology evolves. Example: bringing Florian Brand to Interconnects underscored these dynamics.

OpenAI IPO this year tests investor tolerance for AI boom

January 30, 2026, 1:54 PM EST. OpenAI is speeding toward a fourth-quarter 2026 IPO, aiming to test investor faith in the AI boom. The Wall Street Journal says the company has begun informal talks with banks and hired finance executives ahead of a listing. OpenAI is valued around $500 billion but says profitability may not arrive until 2030. The timing comes as investors question whether generative AI can deliver returns to cover sprawling infrastructure costs. Anthropic is pushing faster to profits, potentially pressuring OpenAI to move sooner. OpenAI has signaled large capital needs, including about $1.4 trillion in data-center spending by 2033, and is pursuing hundreds of billions in new funding alongside an IPO. Profitability remains uncertain; other tech giants have gone public unprofitable before, though OpenAI burns through billions annually.

Apple deal spree: Trail Loop 52% off, Mac mini M4 24GB at $699, AirTag 2 mount from $8

January 30, 2026, 1:50 PM EST. 9to5Toys reports a wave of Apple deals this week. Amazon's official blue and Black Titanium Apple Watch Ultra Trail Loop is down to $47.30, about 52% off, a new all-time low. The same price drop extends to the latest black Trail Loop. B&H has brought back a $100 price cut on the M4 Mac mini with 24GB RAM and 256GB SSD, now $699 shipped (regularly $799). Elevation Lab's AirTag 2 mount/case is on sale from $8. Deals also touch MacBook Air and iPhone 16 Pro, with discounts up to $620. These deals are time-sensitive and could vanish quickly.

What $5,000 buys in a used electric car

January 30, 2026, 1:48 PM EST. With a $5,000 ceiling, the first-gen Nissan Leaf dominates the market. Its 24 kWh battery and lack of liquid cooling have fanned concern over longevity, making early Leafs a common target for parts or storage reuse; some go for under $2,000, though cheaper units become salvage objects. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV, with a 16 kWh pack, suits dense city driving but offers sparse range. Other options in the mix include the Chevrolet Spark EV, Fiat 500e, VW e-Golf, Kia Soul EV, and even a couple of BMW i3s. Buyers must weigh distance: long drives home from far-off states require level 2 charging and, under the Biden-era NEVI plan, more frequent stops. Shipping costs could erase savings for distant purchases.

Rocket Lab launches KAIST Earth-imaging satellite NEONSAT-1A, second Electron launch in eight days

January 30, 2026, 1:46 PM EST. Rocket Lab capped a busy start to 2026 with the 81st Electron launch, its second in eight days, to deploy NEONSAT-1A for KAIST from Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand. The satellite will reach a 540 km low Earth orbit to test Korea's NEONSAT constellation for monitoring natural disasters and national security events near the peninsula; its predecessor, NEONSAT-1, was deployed in 2024 on "Beginning of The Swarm." Founder Peter Beck said the run highlights demand for Electron and Rocket Lab's reliability as a busy year lies ahead. The company outlined 2026 missions across commercial Earth observation, international space agencies, national security, and hypersonic tech development.

Investors Reward Meta and Tesla but Punish Microsoft Despite Revenue Beat

January 30, 2026, 1:38 PM EST. Three mega-cap tech names reported earnings, and the market delivered a split verdict. Microsoft beat on adjusted earnings and revenue, but its stock sank after Azure growth of 39% fell short of lofty late-2026 expectations. Capacity constraints have turned Azure into a bottleneck that could slow Copilot and Office momentum. Meta delivered the opposite proof: an 8.6% earnings surprise, 26% revenue growth and 41% operating margins, with AI-driven targeting boosting ad revenue and a 30% growth forecast next quarter. Reality Labs still bleeds cash, but the core business is proving profitability. Tesla posted a 37% drop in quarterly earnings to $1.37 billion yet held steady on its robotaxi ambitions, reinforcing a market where 2026 rewards AI-enabled scale even as the hardware cycle slows. The contrast shows investors prize AI-driven profitability over near-term hurdles.

BYD builds Vietnam power-battery hub as part of Southeast Asia expansion

January 30, 2026, 1:30 PM EST. BYD expands from exporting to embedding itself in regional supply chains, signing a US$130 million deal with Kim Long Motor to build a central Vietnam power battery plant for commercial vehicles. The project proceeds in two phases: a 4.4-hectare site with 3 GWh annual capacity for buses and trucks, and a second phase adding 6 hectares to reach 10 hectares and lines for passenger vehicles, lifting total capacity to 6 GWh. Equity terms aren't disclosed; Kim Long Motor may lead contributions while BYD supplies core battery technology and manufacturing know-how. This move fits BYD's broader strategy to anchor EV supply chains in Southeast Asia as Vietnam's market grows under policy support, including incentives like EV registration fee exemptions through 2027 and charging infrastructure subsidies.

From launcher-hopping to Google defaults: a rethink on third-party apps

January 30, 2026, 1:28 PM EST. After years of launcher-hopping and testing bespoke apps, I finally settled on a mostly Google-default stack I'm not itching to replace. The appeal of privacy and customization via third-party apps wore thin as the upkeep outweighed the gains. Each switch added extra logins, inconsistent design, and subscriptions that hid features. My workflow became a patchwork: notes in one app, tasks in another, emails elsewhere, with notifications that never lined up. In practice, the default suite has tightened integration and reliability. Google Calendar, for example, quietly improved work-life balance around scheduling. I still respect solid alternatives, but the cost of managing a diverse set of tools now outweighs the benefits. For now, the Google-default stack feels sufficient and predictable.

Apple iOS 26.3 release date moves to early February amid beta signals

January 30, 2026, 1:22 PM EST. Apple's next iPhone update, iOS 26.3, appears to be slipping into February after beta signals. A January window faded when iOS 26.2.1 surfaced instead, and Apple released the third developer beta of 26.3 followed by a public beta, hinting at a revised schedule. Unlike minor updates, a Release Candidate typically precedes a full roll-out; if that pattern holds, a late January launch is unlikely and early February remains plausible. The plan dovetails with work on iOS 26.4 and a new Siri with Apple Intelligence, which Apple would not want delayed. Apple kept 26.2.1 to address the AirTag focus, underscoring that 26.3 centers on bug fixes. Earliest target: around Feb. 4, with general availability mid-February.

AirTag 1 vs AirTag 2: 15+ differences in range, sound and design

January 30, 2026, 1:16 PM EST. Apple's second-generation AirTag arrives five years after the original, keeping the same outward design and accessory compatibility. The upgrades are hardware-focused: a longer Ultra Wideband range that expands Precision Finding beyond iPhone to Apple Watch, a louder speaker, and a redesigned internal layout with a thinner PCB and revised battery connectors. Bluetooth is faster and rotates identifiers more often. The weight rises to 11.8g, and reset rules differ for battery cycles. Packaging and the inner tray were redesigned. Find My network and core functionality remain the same, so the decision centers on usage patterns: frequent reliance on precise direction may favor the second-generation AirTag, while cost-conscious buyers might prefer the original.

Tesla shifts Autopilot to subscription model with $99/month FSD plan

January 30, 2026, 1:14 PM EST. Tesla will phase out a one-time $8,000 Full Self-Driving (FSD) option and replace it with a $99-a-month FSD subscription starting Feb. 14 for supervised driving. The shift follows California's ongoing compliance process that could suspend sales if marketing issues aren't resolved within 60 days; a full-state halt would be costly for the automaker. CEO Elon Musk posted that the $99/month will rise as FSD capabilities improve, with the ultimate aim of unsupervised use on phones or while the driver is asleep. The move mirrors a broader push by automakers to monetize software through subscriptions, a trend analysts say could create recurring revenue as margins tighten. GM has dropped Apple CarPlay and Android Automotive in some models, while BMW has experimented with similar services. Tesla's stock remains high, but growth faces profit and regulatory pressure.

Apple delivers iOS 26.2.1 with AirTag 2 support and stability fixes

January 30, 2026, 1:12 PM EST. Apple has released iOS 26.2.1, a minor update focused on AirTag 2 support and bug fixes. The update adds seamless compatibility with the second-generation AirTag, including a higher-precision finding range via the updated ultra-wideband chip (up to 50% improvements), extended connectivity through a new Bluetooth chip, and a 50% louder chime for alerts. AirTag 2 keeps the same price and form factor as the original, priced at $29 for a single unit or $99 for a four-pack, and works with Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 for precision finding without an iPhone. On the software side, HomeKit responsiveness improves, though some issues like keyboard input lag remain. Benchmark data show no material performance or battery life changes versus iOS 26.2.

Mercedes, NVIDIA and Uber push robotaxi platform on S-Class with MB.OS and DRIVE AV

January 30, 2026, 1:06 PM EST. Mercedes-Benz, NVIDIA and Uber are advancing a global autonomous-driving platform centered on the redesigned S-Class sedans. The next-generation car runs Mercedes' MB.OS and integrates NVIDIA's DRIVE Hyperion hardware with the full-stack DRIVE AV Level 4 software. NVIDIA's Halos-based safety architecture and parallel AI and classic driving stacks are designed for dependable robotaxi deployments. The S-Class is pitched for a premium, chauffeur-style autonomous experience and will be offered to passengers through Uber's mobility network. The collaboration pairs an automaker with an AI leader to deliver safer, smarter autonomy while maintaining high safety standards. DRIVE AV is trained on NVIDIA DGX hardware and validated in simulations via Omniverse NuRec libraries and Cosmos world models. Mercedes hasn't disclosed a launch timeline.

Granola in Talks for $1 Billion Valuation, VC-Favored Note-Taking Startup

January 30, 2026, 1:02 PM EST. Granola, a note-taking app favored by venture capitalists, is in early talks to reach a $1 billion valuation, according to people familiar with the matter. The discussions are preliminary and could change. Granola has a growing user base of founders and teams seeking fast, cross-device idea capture. If completed, the deal would push the startup into unicorn status-jargon meaning a company valued at $1 billion or more. A Granola spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Investors have backed the company amid competition from larger productivity apps, but terms remain uncertain as talks progress.

Apple shifts to fully customizable Mac builds on Apple.com

January 30, 2026, 1:00 PM EST. Apple has replaced its traditional pre-configured Mac lineup with a fully build-to-order experience on Apple.com. The MacBook Pro page now shows a single product with customizable specs, letting buyers choose display size, chip, memory, storage and other options. The emphasis shifts from selecting among presets to building a machine within a budget. The option list includes display size, color, screen type, chip, processing power, unified memory, SSD, power adapter, keyboard, Pro apps, payment options, and AppleCare. RAM and processor tiers remain, for example 24GB RAM standard with M4 Pro/Max, but pricing signals may be less transparent. Third-party retailers like Amazon and Best Buy may still offer standard configurations. Rumors suggest future M5 Pro/Max cores could be customizable, extending the build-to-order path.

Google Aluminium OS leak blends Android 16, ChromeOS in new desktop vision

January 30, 2026, 12:58 PM EST. Google's Aluminium OS appears as a first public glimpse of a plan to replace ChromeOS, surfaced from a Chromium Issue Tracker bug and reported by PC World. The leak shows a desktop environment that melds Aluminium OS with Android 16, ChromeOS and touches of MacOS. Visuals show a large top-right icon area, a bottom app strip, a Play Store-driven app catalog, and support for Chrome Extensions, suggesting a hybrid of mobile store and desktop apps. A video supports the claim that Google treats Aluminium OS as an Android offshoot, with parts referring to it as Android 16. The footage runs on an HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook with a 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake-U chip, implying continued ChromeOS DNA. No timetable for release; compatibility with older Chromebooks uncertain.

Tesla discontinues Autopilot to push Full Self-Driving subscription amid California license case

January 30, 2026, 12:50 PM EST. Tesla has discontinued Autopilot, its basic driver-assistance system, to boost uptake of its more capable Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, labeled Supervised. The move follows a 30-day suspension of Tesla's California manufacturing and dealer licenses after a judge found the company misled buyers about Autopilot and FSD capabilities. California's DMV stayed the ruling for 60 days to let Tesla comply by removing the Autopilot name. New cars now come standard with only Traffic Aware Cruise Control; current customers' impact is unclear. Separately, Tesla will stop charging an $8,000 upfront FSD fee from Feb 14, offering FSD via a $99 monthly subscription, with Musk signaling prices may rise as capabilities improve. Tesla also rolled out robotaxi Model Y in Austin without human safety personnel, using a more advanced driving stack under supervision.

Connected Energy to develop flagship EV battery testing facility in UK

January 30, 2026, 12:42 PM EST. Connected Energy is building a flagship EV battery testing facility in the UK as part of its first wholly owned, second-life BESS site. The hub will test and integrate batteries from multiple EV bus and truck makers, illustrating the business case for repurposing end-of-life cells in grid-scale storage. 'This development marks the next step in Connected Energy's growth,' said CEO Matthew Lumsden, who said the site will also operate as an advanced test facility. Located at Scottow Enterprise Park in Norfolk near the company's technical centre, the project has planning permission and is due to become operational by mid-2026. The £2 million scheme is backed by APC UK to advance EV battery reuse and recycling. The site will house a 5MWh BESS, trading energy and providing grid services to prove the value of second-life batteries.

Maingear's Retro98 blends retro design with high-end gaming hardware

January 30, 2026, 12:40 PM EST. Maingear unveils the Retro98, a retro-styled gaming PC that nods to the 1990s while delivering modern power. The beige tower includes a LED fan-speed display, a working turbo button and a power-lockout key, with front I/O hidden behind the Maingear logo. Inside, it can be configured with up to a Ryzen 9 9950X3D, GeForce RTX 5090, 64GB RAM and a 4TB Gen5 NVMe SSD, with open-loop liquid cooling on the top tier. Prices span from $2,500 to $9,799, with a base model at $2,499 and mid tiers at $3,499 and $4,999. Only 32 standard and 6 alpha units will be produced; a DIY workaround using the SilverStone FLP02 case is possible. Availability: order today from Maingear's website.

Leaked Core Ultra 7 356H benchmarks show middling gains amid iGPU downgrade

January 30, 2026, 12:36 PM EST. Leaked results for Intel's upcoming Core Ultra 7 356H, a 16-core mobile Panther Lake CPU (4 P-cores, 12 E-cores), hint at middling gains. The Cinebench R23 numbers indicate solid multicore uplift but little change in the single-core score versus the outgoing 255H. Alleged results place the 356H at 20,721 in multicore and 2,013 in single-core on R23, versus about 18,679 and 2,060 for the 255H. In 3DMark Steel Nomad Light, the Panther Lake iGPU scores 2,110, far below the 3,279-3,532 range reported for the 255H depending on DX12 or Vulkan. The report notes the Arc 140V iGPU is slower than the new Graphics 4 Xe3. AMD's Ryzen AI 400 APUs are entering laptops, sharpening the competitive landscape.

Bloomberg: SpaceX weighs merger options with Tesla and xAI ahead of IPO

January 30, 2026, 12:34 PM EST. Bloomberg reports that SpaceX is examining a tie-up with Tesla and, separately, with xAI ahead of an anticipated IPO this year. The discussions, described by unnamed sources, reflect investor interest in combining Musk's aerospace, automotive and AI ventures. Reuters had earlier noted SpaceX's contemplation of a merger with xAI. The existing links among the groups include Tesla's $2 billion investment in xAI and ongoing commercial ties. Financials cited show SpaceX incurred about $2.4 million in 2024 expenses with Tesla related to commercial, licensing and support agreements, while Tesla charged around $0.8 million for Musk's use of a SpaceX jet. The firms' boards have not publicly approved any tie-up.

Apple posts blowout quarter but investors fixate on costs and AI roadmap

January 30, 2026, 12:28 PM EST. Apple posted a blowout quarter, with revenue of $143.8 billion, up 16%, and iPhone revenue of $85.2 billion. Yet the stock slid, down about 5% year to date, as investors focus on higher costs and the absence of a clearly visible AI-enabled upgrade. Wall Street notes strong iPhone demand but rising hardware costs tied to memory chips and components. China revenue rose to $25.5 billion, signaling continued growth there. The debate centers on whether AI features in the next iOS iteration will justify margins, and how much the broader AI race will cost. Microsoft's results echo the same tension. Investors are pricing the cost of the future against near-term earnings, even as the Magnificent 7 pursue AI-driven growth.

Android 16 on 7.5% of devices in latest distribution numbers

January 30, 2026, 12:26 PM EST. Google's latest Android distribution numbers show Android 16 on about 7.5% of devices, based on data through December 1, 2025. The update, the first broad snapshot since April 2025, shows rollout across Pixel and non-Google devices and a September start for larger brands like Samsung, with Oppo/OnePlus pushing updates later in 2025. Android 15 remains the most-used version at 19.3%, though that share is lower than some cycles. In the prior snapshot, Android 14 stood at 27.4% and Android 15 at 4.5%. Google bases the figures on a seven-day rolling period, and Android 4.4 KitKat was dropped from the list.

Google extends Pixel Tablet OS upgrades to five years

January 30, 2026, 12:22 PM EST. Google has extended the software support window for the Pixel Tablet, adding two more years of Android OS upgrades. The device will now receive 5 years of OS and security updates starting from its US launch, extending guaranteed updates to June 2028. Previously, updates were set to end in June 2026. The move aligns the tablet with the Pixel 6, Pixel 7 and original Pixel Fold, though it stops short of the seven-year promise claimed for Pixel 8 and newer devices. The change was reported by 9to5Google, citing an updated support page that notes continued feature updates through Pixel Drops.

Google extends Pixel Tablet software updates to 2028, buys time for a potential follow-up

January 30, 2026, 12:20 PM EST. Google has extended the Pixel Tablet's software-update window to June 2028, giving owners more time to see new features from the device that debuted in June 2023. The company had planned three years of updates, and this new pact extends by two years, matching a move seen with older Pixels. No official follow-up to the Nest Hub Max or a Pixel Tablet successor has been announced, leaving the product as a unique entry in Google's lineup. Reviewers note the tablet's strong Photos screensaver and smart-home controls, but also point to voice-command quirks that require unlocking. With Gemini integration expected, the new window could finally unlock deeper lock-screen and feature parity over time.

Apple to prioritise premium iPhone launches in 2026 amid supply chain crunch

January 30, 2026, 12:14 PM EST. Apple told investors on Jan. 29 it faces a supply chain crunch for iPhones. The company will prioritize the three most premium iPhone models for 2026, while shipments of the standard model are pushed back, potentially to 2027, according to Nikkei Asia. The plan follows a marketing strategy change and tighter component availability. If confirmed, the rollout would be split: high-end devices go first, lower-cost models later. Apple did not publicly confirm the timetable, but multiple sources cited Nikkei Asia. The move underscores ongoing pressure on parts supply, including memory, as Apple pursues higher-margin devices amid uncertain demand.

Previously not-for-sale Apple Store items now purchasable through AppleUnsold

January 30, 2026, 12:12 PM EST. Not-for-sale items from Apple Stores are surfacing on a marketplace called AppleUnsold. Most listings are marked as used, reflecting source materials from Apple Stores. Prices can be steep depending on condition; for example, a brand-new iPhone MagSafe demo charger is listed at $229. The shop ships to more than 170 countries. However, AppleUnsold does not accept Klarna or PayPal, and it offers no returns on non-faulty goods. Prospective buyers are advised to wait for more evidence of trust. The site is on Trustpilot but has not yet accrued reviews. Readers should weigh the risk before purchasing through this outlet.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold launches at Samsung Store for $2,899

January 30, 2026, 11:56 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold goes on sale at the official Samsung Store for $2,899. The launch carries no trade-in rebates or carrier plan tie-ins, but includes discounts on accessories and limited-time subscriptions to Health Premium, Adobe Lightroom, and Google Gemini. Unveiled at CES 2026, the device uses a two-hinge design that unfolds to a near-flat 10-inch internal display-a potential replacement for both phone and tablet. Under the hood: Android 16 with One UI, Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage. The 200MP main camera leads a capable camera suite. Availability is exclusive to Samsung for now, with possible carrier deals to follow.

CATL and BYD push sodium-ion batteries to curb lithium price pressures

January 30, 2026, 11:54 AM EST. CATL and BYD are intensifying their shift to sodium-ion batteries to blunt surging lithium costs. CATL unveiled its first commercial sodium-ion cell, branded Naxtra, at its Tech Day, and plans to start fitting them in passenger cars in Q2 2026, beginning with the AION Y Plus. Local media say early winter testing is underway for 45 kWh packs designed for light commercial vehicles, with operation at -30°C and even -40°C retaining about 90% capacity. CATL says energy density could reach the level of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries within three years, enabling a partial swap in customized segments. BYD began building its own sodium-ion plant in 2024, targeting 30 GWh annually. The move reflects price volatility in lithium, with sodium being more abundant.

Free cloud computing courses in 2026: what they deliver and where paid programs excel

January 30, 2026, 11:52 AM EST. Free cloud computing courses offer organization-wide standardization, enabling teams to speak a common language as they roll out a cloud center of excellence, a platform team or finops initiative. Provider-authored fundamentals teach the provider's intended mental model-useful for reducing identity, networking and service boundaries friction, helping teams troubleshoot faster. It's helpful, but not neutral truth. Paid training still wins on depth and context: instructor-led courses can compress months of trial and error into a week, with curated labs, graded assessments and real-time feedback. Free programs rarely match that level. The choice depends on goals: free courses aid scaling and alignment; paid programs drive deeper design skills and enterprise readiness.

Apple prompts Mac users to update Pages, Numbers, Keynote and Freeform to Creator Studio

January 30, 2026, 11:50 AM EST. Apple's latest move bundles Pages, Numbers, Keynote and Freeform into Creator Studio (ACS) and prompts Mac users to update to freemium versions. Apple says the core functionality remains free forever, but some users doubt the pledge and fear a future subscription requirement. When installed, ACS can run alongside the originals: the old apps aren't removed, but the update creates a second, similarly named version via a new path. The process can appear intrusive, with a prominent subscription option and different UI and toolbar. If you're unhappy, you can delete ACS and rely on the old versions. Reverting is unlikely but not impossible. The situation highlights how Apple's strategy may affect user choice and app behavior on macOS.

AI-edited portrait of Alex Pretti aired by MS NOW raises questions about misinformation

January 30, 2026, 11:46 AM EST. An AI-upscaled portrait of Alex Pretti aired by MS NOW. The network says it did not edit the image itself, and that it sourced it online without realizing it had been altered. The edit broadens shoulders, tints skin, and softens the nose; the shirt text is garbled. The original image came from a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs portrait; an unknown internet user ran it through a generative AI tool to produce a crisper version. Several outlets, including the Daily Mail and International Business Times, republished the AI version. Snopes is seeking clarification. Reuters reports the viral image does not match videos of the event. The episode illustrates AI upscaling risks and the bias of automated image edits in coverage.

ChatGPT in medicine: AI aids diagnosis and patient care, sparking hope and caution

January 30, 2026, 11:42 AM EST. Digital doctors, patient stories and tools like ChatGPT are reshaping how diagnosis and treatment are discussed. A viral account from Bethany Crystal describes how an exchange with ChatGPT led to urgent medical advice and a later diagnosis of immune thrombocytopenic purpura. OpenAI says hundreds of millions now consult the service for wellness guidance, and its new ChatGPT Health platform promises enhanced security for medical records and data. Doctors say AI can deliver nearly unlimited time for patient inquiry, helping identify rare conditions beyond common ailments. Yet experts caution that AI should support, not replace, clinical judgment, especially in triage and medical decision making.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold debuts in US as first two-hinge foldable, starts at $2,899

January 30, 2026, 11:40 AM EST. The Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold arrives in the US as the company's first two-hinge foldable, unfolding from a 6.5-inch phone to a 10-inch tablet-like screen. The device starts at $2,899 for the 512GB model in Crafted Black, with a premium build and a grippy exterior finish. Inside, it uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy and supports DeX mode to run three full-sized apps side-by-side, aided by Galaxy AI and Gemini Live. Camera setup includes a 200MP main sensor plus 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto, and 10MP punch-hole cameras on both displays. Early hands-on reviews from CES 2026 highlight productivity and gaming potential, despite the high price.

Xfinity vs Verizon: Which Internet Provider Is Best for Your Home?

January 30, 2026, 11:36 AM EST. An assessment contrasts Xfinity and Verizon across delivery, price and perks. Verizon Fios delivers fiber to the home with direct, symmetrical speeds and strong customer satisfaction, but its availability is limited to nine states. Verizon's 5G Home Internet expands coverage to more areas, yet speeds trail fiber and vary by location. Xfinity relies on cable and hybrid fiber-coax, offering broad nationwide reach across 41 states, flexible bundles and unlimited data, but its speeds are asymmetrical and upload performance suffers during peak hours. Pricing often features promotions and long-term guarantees on Xfinity, while Verizon emphasizes no broad low-budget tiers. The matchup favors fiber for steady performance; coverage and budget considerations largely drive the choice.

Apple Creator Studio launches as earnings hit record; iPhone 18 rumors persist, data privacy concerns

January 30, 2026, 11:32 AM EST. Apple reports record earnings as Tim Cook unveils the new Apple Creator Studio. The release bundles a Content Hub with stock photography and a Pixelmator Pro app for iPad, seen as reinforcing the company's growing media toolkit. The update is described as competitive with expectations, potentially lifting future earnings. In privacy news, critics challenge giving Apple Health data to ChatGPT, arguing it would expose private health information without clear benefits. On the rumor mill, chatter about the iPhone 18 Pro persists, including a left-field claim about the cameras. The show notes also touch on a renewed debate over Sherlocking, about Apple allegedly copying a developer's idea. Promotional notes encourage subscriptions and sponsorship inquiries.

Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold hits US for $2,899; sold only through Samsung channels

January 30, 2026, 11:30 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold is now available in the United States, priced at $2,899. The device ships without launch discounts and will be sold exclusively through Samsung's own online and Experience Stores, with no carrier or third-party retailer partners for now. Prospective buyers can test the TriFold at Samsung Experience Stores in California, Texas, New York and Minnesota before purchase. Samsung envisions a limited run, with industry estimates of about 30,000 units, underscoring its premium positioning. The phone uses two hinges to unfold into a tablet-like display, a feature that expands multitasking and productivity. Foldable means the screen expands to a tablet-sized display. This exclusive strategy contrasts with prior flagships that relied on carriers. Folding tech remains central to Samsung's premium lineup, even as volume stays tiny.

Apple Watch aids post-ablation AFib monitoring, detects more recurrences and reduces hospitalizations

January 30, 2026, 11:26 AM EST. London-led trial finds that using an Apple Watch-driven, patient-led ECG routine after atrial fibrillation (AFib) ablation changes surveillance. In the Apple Watch arm, patients recorded a daily ECG and extra checks for symptoms or watch alerts; a remote clinical team reviewed results. The standard-care group followed clinic visits at 3, 6, and 12 months with ECG and Holter monitoring-a portable 24-hour ECG test. After a 90-day blanking period, recurrences were confirmed sooner in the watch group (median 116 days vs 132 days) and were detected in more patients (52.9% vs 34.9%), driven by paroxysmal episodes. Despite more abnormalities, unplanned hospitalizations were fewer and repeat ablations similar. The study suggests daily-life monitoring can improve post-ablation surveillance.

Micron and Amazon emerge as AI stock bets after Nvidia rally

January 30, 2026, 11:20 AM EST. Nvidia has led the generative-AI megatrend, delivering enormous returns. After a steep rally, investors are weighing alternatives with lower valuations and new monetization paths. Micron Technology and Amazon are highlighted as potential millionaire-maker AI stocks. Micron benefits from a surge in memory demand as AI workloads strain data centers, with fiscal Q1 revenue up 57% year over year to $13.6 billion; analysts see potential for margin gains and, if demand cools, for share buybacks that could lift EPS. Amazon is pursuing internal AI deployments to trim labor costs and boost efficiency, underscoring how AI can translate into operating savings beyond cloud infrastructure. The shift signals a broader rotation beyond Nvidia among AI beneficiaries with different risk/valuation profiles.

Samsung expands Care+ in Europe with unlimited accidental-damage repairs for Galaxy devices

January 30, 2026, 11:16 AM EST. Samsung has expanded its Care+ insurance in select European countries, offering unlimited accidental-damage repairs across Galaxy devices from January 19. The plan removes the 60-day trip limit and lets customers claim online or by phone 24/7. Benefits include access to walk-in repair centres (175 locations so far) and a send-in option with courier collection. Repairs use Samsung-authorised centres with original parts. Extended coverage continues after standard warranties, including a free battery replacement if capacity falls below 80%. A monthly payment option covers up to 60 months, with cancellation, while a two-year fixed-term option is available via upfront payment. An optional Theft and Loss layer adds replacements when claims are approved, typically within 48 hours.

iPhone Fold rumors: late-2026 launch window, book-style design and specs

January 30, 2026, 11:12 AM EST. Apple has not confirmed a foldable iPhone, but multiple analysts now point to a late-2026 launch for a device often called the iPhone Fold. Plans could slip to 2027 if hinge or display durability stalls. The design is expected to be book-style rather than a clamshell, with an inner display around 7.7-7.8 inches and an outer screen near 5.5 inches when folded. Unfolded thickness is projected around 4.5-5.6mm, folded about 9-11mm, yielding a squarer footprint to match the inner panel. CAD leaks and mold imagery have fueled the window, with some seeing a preview linked to the iPhone Air chassis. Apple reportedly positions it as a premium flagship to differentiate from rivals like Samsung and Google, while the timeline remains fluid.

Tesla ends Model S production as it pivots from cars to AI and autonomy

January 30, 2026, 11:10 AM EST. Tesla will stop producing the Model S and the Model X to free up capacity for its humanoid robot Optimus and an autonomous future. The move signals a shift from carmaking to software and AI. The Model S helped prove EVs could compete with luxury sedans, but current sales are led by the more affordable Model 3 and Model Y. CEO Elon Musk framed the decision as a reallocation of factory space toward autonomy rather than new car models. Investors have supported Musk's broader AI push with a record pay package, even as auto sales soften. The plan underlines a bet that growth will come from AI, not traditional vehicle lineups.

Garmin Venu 3S deal: $100 off at Amazon

January 30, 2026, 11:00 AM EST. As of Jan. 29, 2026, the Garmin Venu 3S is $349.99 at Amazon, a $100 cut from its $449.99 list price. The markdown makes the compact smartwatch more affordable for fitness-minded buyers. The model combines a slim profile with heart-rate, activity, and sleep tracking plus solid battery life, fitting Garmin's mid-range lineup. Deal pricing and availability are subject to change after publication, so readers should verify current terms before buying. Deals featured here are independently selected; affiliate links may apply. The takeaway: a notable price drop on a popular wearable.

Nvidia chief disputes US plan to shift Taiwan chipmaking; calls multi-region expansion the path to resilience

January 30, 2026, 10:54 AM EST. Jensen Huang rejected DigiTimes' claim that the U.S. plans to relocate 40% of Taiwan's chipmaking capacity. He said the global fab expansion creates new capacity, not a mass shift, and that TSMC must grow worldwide to meet surging AI demand while keeping Taiwan as its flagship hub. He noted wafer demand now outpaces Taiwan's power grid, making overseas production necessary; Nvidia will build and expand fabs in the U.S., Europe and Japan, but a substantial share of output will stay in Taiwan, which he called irreplaceable. Spreading production across regions strengthens resilience for both sides as AI hardware scales. He stressed memory supply (HBM, DDR5, GDDR7) and close coordination with Samsung, SK hynix and Micron to support Rubin. During his Taiwan visit, Huang planned meetings with Morris Chang and C.C. Wei.

AI industry super PAC raises $125 million in 2025 to push national policy

January 30, 2026, 10:52 AM EST. Leading the Future, a new AI industry super PAC backed by Andreessen Horowitz, OpenAI co-founder Greg Brockman, and Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale, raised $125 million in 2025 and ended the year with about $70 million on hand. The group plans to back candidates who favor a uniform national AI policy over state-by-state rules, arguing that national leadership in AI will drive growth and security. It has already stepped into the midterms, opposing Democrat Alex Bores in Manhattan over New York's AI law and backing Republican Chris Gober in Texas. The PAC is connected to Build American AI, which launched a $10 million national-policy push, and counts SV Angel's Ron Conway and Perplexity among its donors.

Apple CEO Tim Cook teases innovations never seen before for 2026

January 30, 2026, 10:48 AM EST. Apple CEO Tim Cook said the company expects 'innovations that have never been seen before' this year, on an earnings call that framed 2026 as busy and uncertain in the same breath. He tied the outlook to opportunities to enrich users' lives. The report flags a string of questions: could a foldable iPhone gain breakthrough features such as a crease-free screen; might a more personalized Siri outpace rivals like ChatGPT; will Apple smart glasses offer something unique versus Meta; could a smart home hub with a Face ID video doorbell compete with Google and Ring. Apple has already rolled out 2026 products like a second-generation AirTag and the Black Unity braided band. The conglomerate remains tight-lipped about timing, with results and product details still to come.

SpaceX targets mid-March for first flight of bigger Starship Version 3, Musk says

January 30, 2026, 10:46 AM EST. SpaceX aims to launch the next Starship test flight in mid-March, Elon Musk said on X. The mission would be the 12th overall for Starship and the first using the bigger, more powerful Version 3 iteration. The vehicle is taller than prior versions and designed to carry more than 100 tons to low Earth orbit, versus about 35 tons for V2. The upgrade relies on the new Raptor 3 engine. The plan follows a November setback that forced SpaceX to swap in a second booster after the Super Heavy buckled during testing. If Flight 12 proceeds and later tests hit milestones, SpaceX has suggested a potential fleet of uncrewed Starship V3 rockets could reach Mars late this year.

America's AI regulatory patchwork crushes startups, fuels China's unified framework

January 30, 2026, 10:38 AM EST. American startups designing AI tools face a growing maze of state rules. PerceptIn spent about $344,000 per deployment to meet regulations that began as a $10,000 budget, and the company folded two months ago. Last year, states introduced roughly 1,200 AI bills, with 145 becoming law, each defining terms differently and creating overlapping requirements. A hiring tool must satisfy California's four-year recordkeeping and anti-bias testing, Colorado's impact assessments, and New York City's bias audits, among others. Harvard Kennedy School researchers call this a compliance trap, where fixed costs erode margins and push startups toward bankruptcy. Incumbents with cross-border legal teams gain a big advantage. By contrast, China operates a unified framework that reduces cross-border friction.

Apple buys secretive Israeli AI startup Q.ai for $1.6 billion in record deal

January 30, 2026, 10:34 AM EST. Apple has agreed to acquire Israeli AI start-up Q.ai for about $1.6 billion, the biggest purchase in Apple's history, according to The Financial Times and Reuters. Q.ai develops imaging and machine-learning tech that analyzes facial "silent speech" micro-movements and can power devices like intelligent headphones and glasses. The deal values the company near $2 billion and aims to bolster AI capabilities after delays to Apple Intelligence deployments. Apple executives, including Johny Srouji, describe the move as accelerating access to cutting-edge tech. The agreement follows Google's Gemini and OpenAI's ChatGPT integrations, with Google saying its models will power future Apple features.

NotebookLM Video Overview arrives on Android and iOS, expanding mobile AI video and infographic editing

January 30, 2026, 10:32 AM EST. Google's NotebookLM expands its AI tools to Android and iOS, bringing Video Overview to mobile. The feature uses Gemini to turn source material into video essays and complements existing mobile Infographics. Users access the Studio menu (wand icon) or the Studio tab within notebooks to generate a video overview and review previously created videos. On mobile, video visuals cannot emulate web styles (no anime or comic-like themes yet), but infographic editing options are expanding. New controls let users adjust orientation, choose sources, add prompts, and set output language. The rollout comes via a NotebookLM app update, broadening access for researchers and students who rely on synthesized videos and visuals for study material.

Wearable-tech abuse rises as stalking and coercion linked to smart devices, charity warns

January 30, 2026, 10:28 AM EST. New figures from Refuge show a 62% jump in referrals to its tech-abuse unit in 2025, to 829 from 512 in 2024, underscoring how wearable technology like smartwatches and rings are used to stalk and coerce survivors. Emma Pickering, head of Refuge's tech-abuse team, urges stronger safeguards from manufacturers as devices become cheaper and embedded in daily life. Reports also involve smart locks, heating systems and fertility trackers. Abusers can manipulate data remotely or from abroad, making protection harder. About a quarter of referrals come from people under 30. Refuge says the tech sector must anticipate misuse as devices collect more personal data, and policy should not treat safety as an afterthought.

Xtra Muse 4K Vlogging Camera drops 40% to $419

January 30, 2026, 10:24 AM EST. Tech retailer deals spotlight the Xtra Muse 4K Vlogging Camera, now offered at $419 after a 40% discount from its list price of $699. The compact device records in 4K and can capture at 120 fps, delivering smoother footage than many phones. A built-in 1-inch CMOS screen helps frame shots, while a three-axis gimbal stabilizer keeps footage steady. It also includes fast autofocus and subject tracking, plus both video and stills modes for creators who want versatility. The price cut makes a professional-looking setup more affordable, though the deal may not last; shoppers should buy quickly on Amazon.

Nex Playground echoes Kinect with family-focused motion gaming

January 30, 2026, 10:10 AM EST. The Nex Playground is a $249 motion-tracking console built around an onboard camera and computer vision. It tracks up to four players and aims to recapture the Kinect impulse for families. Nex says it sold about 650,000 units last year, a figure that challenged Xbox in some periods. The pitch rests on simple setup, solid motion-tracking and a library of kid-friendly titles from Peppa Pig to Bluey, plus party games and activity modes. Pros include fun core titles, offline play, and a well-designed hardware/UI with a growing catalog; cons include a required ongoing subscription to access most games and the need for a large play space. Example games include Fruit Ninja, Go Keeper and Starri; Nex Play Pass is $89/year or $49 for three months.

Tesla's robot vision reshapes its business as Musk pay under scrutiny

January 30, 2026, 9:58 AM EST. During Tesla's latest earnings call, Elon Musk outlined plans to discontinue some car models to accelerate robotics manufacturing. The company frames its future around humanoid robotics, signaling a move beyond traditional vehicle production. Investors will weigh the shift against the cost and feasibility of building a new robotics business, and against Musk's compensation package, which has drawn ongoing scrutiny. CNN's Hadas Gold reports the remarks, framing them as a burst of ambition that could redefine the company's growth trajectory if the robotics initiative matures. The comments come as Tesla seeks to diversify beyond cars while facing production and margin challenges.

Nintendo addresses Dispatch censorship; statement leaves questions unanswered

January 30, 2026, 9:56 AM EST. Nintendo issued a statement on Dispatch's censorship after days of questions. AdHoc Studio had said it worked with Nintendo to ensure content met platform criteria and that the core narrative remained unchanged, but offered little explanation for the edits. Nintendo's reply provided only a brief, non-committal line, leaving several questions unresolved. On Switch and Switch 2, the Visual Censorship toggle is missing, making censorship effectively always-on; PC and PS5 builds expose toggles for Replaced Licensed Music and Profanity, while the console versions are more opaque. Some fans tie the edits to Japan's CERO D rating; comparisons to Cyberpunk 2077 reference a separate Japanese release (CERO Z) that was not global. The parties did not provide a definitive answer, and Reuters is seeking further comment from AdHoc for clarity.

Digital Wallet Use Still Lags in Stores, PYMNTS Finds

January 30, 2026, 9:54 AM EST. New data from PYMNTS Intelligence shows that digital wallets are still more popular online than in physical stores. The report found 16% of online retail shoppers used a wallet, versus 8% in stores. It argues the center of gravity in commerce is channel-first: consumers settle into stable online routines for some purchases while treating others as more flexible. The last mile is defined by where people pay, not only what they pay with, shaping safety, convenience and control expectations. Brands win baskets by aligning with channel preferences and trust cues rather than age alone. Across generations, convergence appears in retail and travel, though food orders skew younger toward online. Online debit users favored retailers like Walmart more than online credit users; in-store patterns also varied by retailer. The lesson: channel and value drive payments as much as age.

Musk warns U.S. firms to build domestic battery infrastructure or risk falling behind

January 30, 2026, 9:52 AM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk used the closing minutes of the earnings call to urge U.S. firms to build more battery-making capacity at home, warning that reliance on geopolitically exposed supply chains could leave American companies behind. He described many as 'asleep at the switch' on geopolitical risk and said others must share the burden of securing the nation's energy future. Tesla has taken steps to insulate itself, including a lithium-refining and battery-production facility in Texas's Robstown and, this month, dry-electrode 4680-cell production in Austin. Megapack sales rose in Q4, but analysts question the returns on more than $20 billion in capital expenditures for new plants and AI infrastructure. Musk closed with a stark forecast: companies that don't act may cease to exist.

ESA to study Falcon 9 breakup over Poland as SpaceX readies Starship V3 test

January 30, 2026, 9:48 AM EST. ESA has issued a tender to study the reentry and breakup of a SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage that occurred over Poland in February 2025. At least four fragments survived; no injuries or property damage, though one fragment landed in a populated area. ESA says the data could help predict risks from elongated upper stages reentering in very low-Earth orbit (below 150 km). The effort highlights uncertainties in the physics of destructive reentry. The piece notes a launch surge: 2015 had about 80 orbital launches; 2025 has surpassed 300, with 317 successful so far. SpaceX targets a mid-March Starship test flight-the 12th overall and the first with the larger V3 vehicle, powered by Raptor 3 and capable of more than 100 tons to LEO. The report also touches on Challenger artifact provenance and upcoming launches.

Samsung Galaxy S26 series gains satellite messaging with SCS, NTN after FCC certification

January 30, 2026, 9:46 AM EST. Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S26 lineup has cleared FCC certification, with device IDs A3LSMS942U, A3LSMS947U and A3LSMS948U pointing to the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus and S26 Ultra. The filings confirm satellite messaging support via Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) and Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN), continuing Skylo as the NTN partner. The feature may be market-limited, potentially restricted to the U.S. like prior models. All three phones are listed with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy; some markets could see the Exynos 2600 chip instead. Satellite messaging remains a niche, but can be a lifesaver when networks fail. Samsung's Galaxy S26 launch is expected Feb. 25.

Quantum computing: error-correction progress shifts focus beyond scaling

January 30, 2026, 9:44 AM EST. Nature reports a new demonstration in quantum error correction that challenges the scaling-centric view. By splitting a surface-code logical qubit into two simpler repetition codes, researchers showed a substantial reduction in logical gate errors. The result suggests progress in quantum computing can come from smarter error-correction strategies, not only from adding more qubits. While scaling remains important, this approach highlights an alternative path toward more reliable quantum operations and practical devices.

DJI RS 5 gimbal adds faster charging and quicker vertical shooting

January 30, 2026, 9:32 AM EST. DJI's RS 5 gimbal hits the market, emphasizing faster charging, longer runtimes, and smoother vertical shooting. Visually it's similar to RS 4, but updates matter. With BG33 battery grip, RS 5 recharges in one hour on a 65W PD charger. Runtime up to 14 hours; with BG70 grip, claimed 30 hours. Vertical shooting is faster: third-gen design; single-side knob unlocks, plate rotates, ready to shoot. Compared to RS 4, easier for reels and social content. Quick-release plates refined: horizontal plate redesigned for native vertical shooting; fine-tuning tilt knob; upper plate with placement guides. OLED screen now auto-locks to avoid accidental inputs; axis locks improved to reduce shake on transport. Z-axis indicator gives feedback on vertical motion to help smoother footage.

Xiaomi 17 pricing leaks reveal €1,099 EU variant, 6,330 mAh battery, global launch after MWC 2026

January 30, 2026, 9:14 AM EST. Xiaomi's next flagship, the Xiaomi 17, surfaces via leaks and retailer slides. In the Eurozone, a 512 GB model is listed at €1,099; a lower-storage version may start at €999. Xiaomi is said to offer three color options rather than a single shade. The global version reportedly uses a 6,330 mAh battery with 100 W charging, smaller than the 7,000 mAh China variant. Officials expect a non-China release after the MWC 2026 event ends in March, with the Xiaomi 17 Ultra following later. The reports rely on leaked material from Ambhore and retailer pages; formal pricing could still change.

Microsoft stock rout wipes $357 billion as AI spending weighs on Azure growth

January 30, 2026, 9:12 AM EST. Microsoft shares fell 10% Thursday, erasing about $357 billion in market value-the second-largest one-day loss in U.S. stock history. The slide followed results after the bell Wednesday that showed heavy AI spending while growth at its Azure cloud unit slowed. The drop put Microsoft's market cap at risk of eclipsing most S&P 500 members, while peers such as Alphabet and Nvidia each shed more than $100 billion intraday before Alphabet finished higher and Amazon fell. Investors remain skeptical that AI investments will pay off soon. Microsoft reported a 66% jump in capital expenditures to a record $37.5 billion in the latest quarter. A strategist warned the stock should revalue toward historic fair value. The selloff ranks among the worst in company history.

Meta's Reality Labs posts $19 billion loss in 2025 as focus shifts to glasses and wearables

January 30, 2026, 9:04 AM EST. Reality Labs, Meta's VR division, posted a $19.1 billion loss for 2025, continuing a multi-year drain after a $17.7 billion loss in 2024. The quarter ending December 31, 2025 also carried a $6 billion loss. In the earnings commentary, Meta said expense growth would be driven by the Family of Apps, with Reality Labs' losses expected to stay roughly at 2025 levels. Speaking on Meta's Q4 earnings call, CEO Mark Zuckerberg said a significant portion of VR investment is focused on glasses and wearables, underscoring the shift toward wearable technology.

Opinion: How AI Is Helping NYC English Teachers Improve Middle School Reading and Writing

January 30, 2026, 9:02 AM EST. In New York City, two district leaders push AI-powered teaching assistants to boost core English Language Arts in middle school. They seek to strengthen thinking, not replace teachers, and avoid extra interventions by focusing on the most challenging close-reading and writing tasks. Eleven Bronx and three Brooklyn schools signed up, with teachers assigning small groups to log into an AI platform that turns curriculum texts into interactive prompts and targeted supports. Students discuss initial ideas with partners, then respond verbally or in writing to guided questions. The AI confirms understanding via immediate feedback and steers students from literal comprehension toward inferences and author's craft. A live teacher dashboard tracks each student's understanding so educators intervene quickly. The effort prioritizes human connection alongside technology.

SpaceX, xAI discuss merger ahead of IPO; Nevada filings fuel speculation

January 30, 2026, 9:00 AM EST. A Reuters report says SpaceX is discussing a potential merger with xAI ahead of an anticipated IPO, aiming to fuse rockets, Starlink, the X platform and Grok under one roof. The outlet cites a person briefed on the matter and two recent company filings; no agreement has been reached and timing or structure remains undecided. The proposal could swap SpaceX stock for xAI shares; both entities are Nevada-registered. One filing shows SpaceX and chief financial officer Bret Johnsen as managing members of a linked LLC, while another lists Johnsen as the sole officer. SpaceX is valued around $800 billion; xAI about $230 billion. Musk has signaled a SpaceX IPO this year and discussed space-based data centers for AI.

Apple tops Q1 earnings on record iPhone sales

January 30, 2026, 8:58 AM EST. Apple beat Q1 expectations, posting EPS of $2.84 on revenue of $143.8 billion as strong iPhone demand lifted the top line. iPhone revenue reached a record $85.3 billion, well ahead of estimates and up from $69.1 billion a year earlier. Gross margin was 48%; management guided Q2 margins of 48-49%. The Services business totaled about $30 billion, with Mac and iPad revenue of $8.4 billion and $8.6 billion and Wearables at $11.5 billion. China revenue rose 38% year over year to $25.5 billion, signaling a rebound. The company disclosed a $2 billion acquisition of Q.AI whose facial micro-movement tech could enhance AI interactions. Separately, Apple will use Google Gemini for AI infrastructure and plans a revamped Siri later this year. Shares moved modestly in premarket trading.

AI-powered schools test two-hour learning days, no homework

January 30, 2026, 8:56 AM EST. CNN's Sunlen Serfaty examines Alpha, a chain of private schools that use AI to teach core subjects in two hours a day. There is no homework or textbooks-students learn with software each morning, while human guides help with life skills and passion projects. The model aims to free teachers for mentorship and individualized pacing, but it raises questions about pedagogy, access, and long-term outcomes. Proponents say AI can tailor lessons and compress time, while critics warn against narrowing curricula or neglecting social learning. The piece spotlights a shift in education technology and the uncertain path to scale.

4 ways to repurpose an old smartwatch without throwing it away

January 30, 2026, 8:54 AM EST. A MakeUseOf piece by Brandon Miniman notes that many older smartwatches can serve as standalone devices, even with cellular connectivity. It presents practical uses to repurpose them rather than store them away. One idea: a dedicated music player. By downloading offline playlists to the watch's 8-16GB of onboard storage and pairing with Bluetooth headphones, users gain a phone-free workout companion. Another: track your health with sensors that monitor heart rate, blood oxygen and EKG-handy for quick vitals checks at home. The report frames repurposing as straightforward, leveraging existing hardware to extend a watch's life instead of discarding it.

Apple M5 iPad Pro drops to all-time low at $899 on Amazon

January 30, 2026, 8:52 AM EST. Tablet buyers face a crowded market. The piece notes many users still opt for phones or laptops, but tablets offer a larger screen with portability. A limited-time deal on Amazon cuts $100 off the iPad Pro 11-Inch with M5 Chip (256GB), bringing the price to $899. Apple's M5 Chip delivers smooth performance, with strong security, WiFi 7 compatibility, long battery life and a capable camera. The tablet is pitched for creatives and small businesses, useful for drawing, image editing and video work, plus multitasking on the go. The usual price remains $999, so the discount is meaningful but not enormous. The offer could end at any time, so buyers should act quickly.

Microsoft PowerToys tests a top menu bar for Windows 11 with a Command Palette Dock

January 30, 2026, 8:50 AM EST. Microsoft's PowerToys team is testing a top menu bar for Windows 11, a Command Palette Dock designed to sit at the screen edge and host tools, status monitors and extensions. The dock can be positioned on the top, left, right or bottom and lets extensions be pinned to start, center and end regions. Customization options would cover background, styling and theme, with easy reordering of extensions. Built to complement the existing Command Palette launcher (a Windows analog of macOS Spotlight), Microsoft is seeking user feedback and inviting developers to try an early version by importing a project from the PowerToys GitHub repository into Visual Studio. Tom Warren reports Jan 30, 2026.

AirTag 2nd generation debuts as Tim Cook's White House visit fuels boycott chatter

January 30, 2026, 8:48 AM EST. Apple unveils the 2nd generation of the AirTag, keeping the look and price but adding practical search features. The update arrives as the company faces boycott chatter after Tim Cook attended a White House event, prompting questions about brand goodwill and leadership on social issues. Bloomberg cited a staff letter Cook sent addressing the incident, though critics called the response bland. Separately, Apple launched a Creator Studio subscription for a suite of apps, intensifying debates over ownership versus access. The week captures a mix of product refreshes, new services and public scrutiny that could influence consumer sentiment and future behavior.

Nvidia backs CoreWeave with US$2 billion as lawsuits loom over AI infra provider

January 30, 2026, 8:36 AM EST. CoreWeave, an AI-focused cloud provider listed on NasdaqGS:CRWV, faces multiple securities class actions alleging misstatements about capacity to meet AI demand and reliance on a single data center supplier. Regulators scrutinize disclosures around revenue recognition, operational resilience, and supplier concentration as AI infrastructure spending draws market attention. Nvidia has agreed to a US$2b investment and deeper collaboration to accelerate CoreWeave's AI-focused data centers, underscoring how high-performance compute sits at the center of chipmakers, software platforms, and enterprises building AI products. For investors, the key question is whether new capital and the partnership outweigh unresolved lawsuits and disclosure risks. CoreWeave's response, risk disclosures, and supplier arrangements will shape market confidence in CRWV.

Lenovo 24-inch all-in-one desktop drops to $400 on Amazon

January 30, 2026, 8:22 AM EST. Lenovo's 24-inch all-in-one desktop is discounted to $400 on Amazon, a 33% cut from its $599 list price. The bundle includes Windows 11 Home, a wired keyboard and mouse, and a 23.8-inch Full HD display with anti-glare. It houses an Intel N100 quad-core processor, 8GB RAM, and a 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD. Non-expandable storage means external options for growth. Connectivity covers Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2; wired I/O includes USB-A, HDMI-out, Ethernet, and a 3.5mm jack. The system aims at students and light professionals, suitable for office tasks, browsing, and streaming, but not for heavy multitasking. Availability is time-limited; the deal is live on Amazon but could end soon.

Galaxy S26 pricing leaks surface in Sweden; Ultra cheaper, base may rise

January 30, 2026, 8:20 AM EST. Leaks from Sweden outline EU pricing for Samsung's Galaxy S26 lineup, per tipster Roland Quandt. The base Galaxy S26 could rise by about €200 over the S25 128GB, driven by a 256GB start. Upgrades to 512GB will also cost more. The Galaxy S26+ with 256GB is said to be on par with the S25+ in the same configuration. The Galaxy S26 Ultra may be about €100 cheaper than the S25 Ultra at base, with the 512GB variant also undercutting its predecessor; the 1TB top model could keep current pricing. Samsung reportedly won't include free storage upgrades for pre-orders. Prices cited apply to Sweden, which has a higher VAT and its own currency; pricing in other EU markets and the US could differ. Source: Quandt.

Trending tickers: Apple, Microsoft, Sandisk updates; Caterpillar and AstraZeneca awaited

January 30, 2026, 8:18 AM EST. In late trading and pre-market moves, Apple beat Q1 expectations on revenue of $143.8 billion and EPS of $2.84, but shares slipped as investors questioned the durability of its sales rebound. Apple credited iPhone 17 demand and a 38% revenue jump in China, yet concerns linger about costs and AI timing. Microsoft also traded lower pre-market after a volatile session; the company posted Q2 results with adjusted net income of $30.9 billion on revenue of $81.3 billion, while capital spending rose and cloud growth remained a focal point in a race to scale AI infrastructure. Sandisk jumped more than 20% after second-quarter profit surged to $803 million and adjusted EPS of $6.20, with revenue at $3.03 billion. Market reaction underscored cautious optimism across the sector, with Caterpillar and AstraZeneca snapshots awaited.

Silicon Valley private school charges $65,000 and uses AI to teach in two hours a day

January 30, 2026, 8:16 AM EST. A new private school in Silicon Valley charges about $65,000 per student and uses AI to deliver lessons in roughly two hours daily. The project aims to disrupt conventional schooling by shortening instructional hours while expanding personalized content. School officials say the model tailors pacing and material to each student, with teachers in a supporting role. Critics caution that AI-driven schedules may reduce social exposure and increase costs, while proponents argue the approach could redefine how time is spent in classrooms. The story reflects a broader push to apply technology to education, and the financial stakes underscore the debate over value, access and outcomes.

AI bubble could burst; open-source path offers a responsible reboot

January 30, 2026, 8:12 AM EST. December 1999 echoes in today's AI boom. Back then, investors chased growth over fundamentals; the dot-com crash wiped out about $1.7 trillion in market value and dragged the wider economy. The post-crash era produced real value through open-source software, spawning platforms like Firefox and Wikipedia. Today, the market shows a concentration among seven giants-Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia and Tesla-as they pursue control of the full AI stack that shapes how billions learn and create. Critics warn that profit-centric models inflate hopes: 95% of AI experiments never reach production. Instead of accumulating power, the industry should build around open-source and mission-driven firms. Hugging Face, Flower AI and Oumi illustrate a pluralistic path.

Blur goes bold: Android 17's glassy UI fuels mixed reader reaction

January 30, 2026, 8:10 AM EST. Android Authority's Rita El Khoury reports that Google's next Android, Android 17, leans into blur and translucency. Leaked images show UI elements heavily blurred, letting wallpaper colors seep through. In a reader poll exceeding 2,600 votes, about three-quarters welcomed the direction or remained open to more evidence. Critics urged more contrast, less translucency, or an option to adjust strength, with some calling the move "lipstick on a pig" or lamenting a drift from the original Material You. A separate reader poll split opinions on whether the design mirrors iOS too closely; roughly 52% disagreed it's too similar. Google faces pressure to balance aesthetics with usability, and to offer controls that temper the new look while keeping momentum in the Android ecosystem.

DigiTimes: Apple and Nvidia eye Intel as 2028 foundry partner

January 30, 2026, 8:08 AM EST. Industry outlet DigiTimes reports Apple and Nvidia are weighing Intel as a future chip supplier from 2028, a potential lifeline for the company's turnaround. Nvidia would mostly stay with TSMC for GPU production, including the Feynman GPU, while Intel could win I/O die work on an 18A or upcoming 14A process. Apple might move some M-series CPU production onto Intel, a less complex path than Nvidia's needs. Factors such as tariff-free U.S. fabs and growing TSMC capacity abroad could tilt favor toward Intel's supply security. Separately, TSMC is expanding a gigafab cluster in Arizona. If the DigiTimes report is accurate, a new, capacity-driven path could emerge for Intel to regain momentum.

Nvidia's decade-long push to keep Shield TV among the most updated Android devices

January 30, 2026, 8:04 AM EST. Nvidia's Shield TV has benefited from a decade-long commitment to updates. After a two-year lull in 2023-24, OTA updates resumed in 2025 as part of a large, ongoing effort. Nvidia executives describe the quiet period as work in progress, not neglect. The project traces to the Tegra X1 chip used by the original Nintendo Switch; a vulnerability tied to homebrew and DRM (digital rights management) risked older Shield devices. Newer Tegra revisions solved the Switch issue, but 2015 and 2017 Shield TVs remained affected. Rather than let the older hardware fade, Nvidia built an entirely new security stack-a roughly 18-month overhaul-and pressed for ongoing updates to fulfill the team's as long as we shall live pledge to customers who expect features for life.

Meta sticks with VR optimism as Reality Labs posts $19.19 billion loss in 2025, shifts to wearables

January 30, 2026, 8:02 AM EST. Meta's Reality Labs posted a $19.19 billion loss for the year ended December 31, 2025, with revenue down 12% YoY. Over six years the division has lost about $83.55 billion. Despite the losses, Meta remains optimistic about VR's long-term potential, calling it a 'very long-term bet' that needs heavy upfront investment. The company has trimmed Reality Labs staffing and shuttered several studios, including Sanzaru Games, Twisted Pixel, Armature Studio, and Camouflage. CFO Susan Li said Meta will rebalance toward wearables, while cutting VR and Horizon spend. The 10Q shows roughly 70% of Reality Labs' expenses will go to wearables and 30% to VR/Horizon-a shift as consumer uptake lags wearables.

Starlink's space-based internet works well, but geopolitical and governance risks loom

January 30, 2026, 8:00 AM EST. Starlink's internet from space now delivers reliable, high-speed connectivity in places once cut off, including the Bahamas. The system rose to prominence during the Russia-Ukraine war, when it provided battlefield communications but also exposed the fragility of relying on a private owner, Elon Musk, who has faced criticism for outages and public comments. Reports of cyber activity and state scrutiny have added to concerns about strategic leverage. Beyond conflict zones, Starlink has extended to protests and mass events, including Iran demonstrations and Burning Man. In the Bahamas, Musk's SpaceX arranged a landing base and a pledge to connect schools and first responders, though authorities paused Falcon 2 landings after a rocket debris incident. The episode shows how private space internet can bypass traditional networks, while inviting geopolitical risk.

Satellite imagery shows scale of power outages from winter storm

January 30, 2026, 7:58 AM EST. NOAA released satellite imagery showing the reach of a weekend winter storm, contrasting a typical night with the night of January 27. The satellite imagery reveals dimmed lights across parts of the South, including Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana, indicating power outages. NOAA said hundreds of thousands were without power as of Tuesday, January 27. The imagery was provided by CSU/CIRA and NOAA via Storyful, offering a visual chronology of outages across several states.

Wix CEO outlines which jobs AI is most and least likely to replace

January 30, 2026, 7:46 AM EST. The Wix chief executive outlines where AI could automate work and where it may not. He identifies the roles most at risk of replacement and those likely to stay human-driven. The remarks stress upskilling, governance, and cautious deployment as AI spreads across product design, development, and customer support. While automation policies vary by sector, the discussion frames Wix as part of a broader tech shift toward AI-assisted tools that augment rather than replace core human capabilities, at least in the near term.

Nvidia expands AI infrastructure push with China approvals, OpenAI ties and CoreWeave deal

January 30, 2026, 7:44 AM EST. Nvidia is expanding its AI infrastructure footprint on three fronts: China, OpenAI, and CoreWeave. China has approved imports of Nvidia's H200 AI chips for several major tech firms, unlocking a significant hardware channel. The company is in advanced talks to join a multi-billion-dollar funding round for OpenAI alongside Amazon and Microsoft. It has also launched a new AI and high-performance computing collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy, RIKEN, and Fujitsu. Nvidia has committed US$2 billion to deepen its CoreWeave data-center partnership, alongside related cloud purchase agreements. The moves position Nvidia as a central, end-to-end platform for commercial cloud demand and government-backed research, while facing competition from AMD, Intel, and cloud accelerators.

XREAL expands Real 3D real-time conversion to One and One Pro AR glasses

January 30, 2026, 7:40 AM EST. XREAL expanded its Real 3D feature to the XREAL One and One Pro, enabling real-time 2D-to-3D conversion on-device. The company had earlier launched Real 3D on the XREAL 1S; the update runs entirely on the X1 spatial computing chipset, using its NPU for depth estimation to render left- and right-eye views from any 2D content – movies, streams, games, or locally stored media. XREAL says no special files or external software are required. The company is still evaluating latency and notes the feature draws about 300mW more power than standard mode. Real 3D is developed in-house. Separately, XREAL raised $100 million and is pursuing Google's Android XR OS via Project Aura later this year.

Apple halts latest iOS rollout for older iPhones and iPads

January 30, 2026, 7:38 AM EST. Apple halted signing of its latest iOS updates for older iPhone and iPad models days after release, blocking installations even when shown in Settings. The company issued iOS 18.7.4, 16.7.13, 15.8.6 and 12.5.8, plus iPadOS equivalents, to preserve core services and fix an expiring security certificate. By Wednesday, Apple stopped signing the builds, rendering them unusable. The move matters for iMessage, FaceTime and Apple ID access on aging devices. MacRumors cited the certificate issue; Telstra, Australia's largest carrier, said it is working with Apple to address problems preventing some older iPhones from connecting to the network and risking emergency calls (000). Apple gave no public explanation, and iOS 26.2.1 remains available. No timetable for a reissue was provided.

Rocket Lab launches KAIST NEONSAT-1A on second Electron flight of 2026

January 30, 2026, 7:36 AM EST. Rocket Lab launched the South Korean imaging satellite NEONSAT-1A on the Electron rocket from Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand on Jan. 29, the second Electron flight of 2026. Liftoff was at 8:21 p.m. ET after a nine-minute delay caused by a technical issue. The mission, Bridging the Swarm, deployed NEONSAT-1A into a 540-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit, part of KAIST's planned 11-satellite constellation to image the Korean Peninsula and surrounding regions. NEONSAT-1A is KAIST-built; the first NEONSAT launched in 2024. This marked Rocket Lab's second Electron launch of 2026, after Jan. 22, when two Open Cosmos satellites flew. CEO Peter Beck said the two launches in eight days show demand for Electron and the team's dedication.

Musk weighs tech mega-merger across SpaceX, Tesla and xAI, reports say

January 30, 2026, 7:34 AM EST. Elon Musk is weighing mergers among SpaceX, Tesla, and the AI firm xAI, according to multiple outlets. Talks, reportedly at exploratory or non-binding stages, could precede an IPO for SpaceX and, in an alternative path, a full merger with Tesla. Valuations cited by media place SpaceX near $800 billion and xAI around $20 billion, with the combined platform exceeding $1 trillion before any listing and some reports speculating a future IPO near $1.5 trillion. A merged group would blend rockets, satellites, AI computing and data platforms-potentially reshaping capital, technology development, and long-term infra across the trio. No deal has been confirmed, and details remain unclear.

Microsoft tests Linux-like top menu bar for Windows 11 with PowerToys dock

January 30, 2026, 7:28 AM EST. Microsoft's PowerToys team is testing an optional top-edge dock for Windows 11 that acts as a glanceable info bar for system stats, music controls and shortcuts. Described as part of the Command Palette, the dock can be pinned to the top, left, right or bottom of the screen, with extensions placed in start, center and end regions. Senior software engineer Niels Laute says it can be enabled from Command Palette settings and pinned without interrupting workflow. In default mode it mirrors a Mac/Linux menu bar that runs across the top. The dock is highly configurable, supporting themes and visuals plus data such as RAM usage and CPU temps. It remains a proof-of-concept; GitHub feedback could influence an official ship date, and a dedicated branch is available for testing.

Google extends Pixel Tablet software updates to 2028, fueling questions about a successor

January 30, 2026, 7:22 AM EST. Google has quietly lengthened the Pixel Tablet's software support from three to five years, extending updates to June 2028 and potentially to Android 18. The promise appears on Google's support page, promising five years of OS and security updates and new Pixel Drops. By contrast, the UK page still cites updates through June 2026, suggesting regional posting lag. The move reassures current owners but may signal delays for a next model; rumors over the past years have floated a Pixel Tablet 2's cancellation, with talk of a Pixel Tablet 3 in development. The device remains Google's sole slate, known for its dock-and-speaker accessory, though a timely successor remains uncertain.

Musk plans SpaceX-xAI tie-up ahead of IPO; Apple earnings shrug; Waymo incident; DeepSeek AI push

January 30, 2026, 7:20 AM EST. Reuters reports that Musk plans to merge SpaceX with xAI ahead of SpaceX's planned IPO, a move that would sharpen Musk's tech empire alignment. In contrast, Apple blew out holiday-quarter results, delivering billions in iPhone and China sales and lifting margins, but the market shrugged, underscoring investor caution about big tech's growth engine. Separately, Waymo disclosed a pedestrian collision in Santa Monica, a setback that could influence investor sentiment on autonomous driving, even as the company maintains a lead in robotaxi deployments. Chinese AI startup DeepSeek is hiring to build a multilingual AI search engine spanning text, images and audio, signaling a push to challenge Silicon Valley dominance in AI-powered search and automation.

Nvidia, Microsoft, Amazon in talks to invest up to $60 billion in OpenAI

January 30, 2026, 7:16 AM EST. According to The Information, Nvidia, Microsoft, and Amazon are in talks to invest up to $60 billion in OpenAI. Nvidia could invest as much as $30 billion, Microsoft less than $10 billion, and Amazon more than $10 billion, possibly over $20 billion, the report said. OpenAI is nearing term sheets. Amazon and Microsoft declined comment; Nvidia and OpenAI did not respond. Reuters could not verify the report. Amazon's potential investment could hinge on expanding OpenAI's cloud deal with Amazon and a sale of products such as enterprise ChatGPT subscriptions. The development comes as OpenAI faces rising costs and competition from Alphabet's Google.

Rogbid Fusion ring watch adds wrist wear, budget fitness tracking at $49.99

January 30, 2026, 7:10 AM EST. Rogbid's Fusion is a ring-worn device that can also be worn on the wrist with a larger strap. It combines fitness tracking with heart rate and blood oxygen measurements, plus sleep monitoring. Priced at $49.99, it undercuts Casio and Timex ring watches that exceed $100. The device uses a 0.49-inch OLED screen to show time, date and health data; OLED stands for Organic Light-Emitting Diode. The Fusion includes an optical heart rate sensor and motion sensors that track more than 100 sports. A magnet Milanese strap (a metal mesh band) is included and adjustable to finger size; a longer nylon strap swaps on for wrist wear. Battery life estimates run about five days, eight on standby. Available today via Rogbid's online store.

Apple posts 16% quarterly revenue jump on staggering iPhone demand

January 30, 2026, 7:08 AM EST. Apple posted fiscal Q1 earnings that topped expectations, with revenue up 16% year over year. Net income was $42.1 billion, or $2.84 per share, versus $36.33 billion, or $2.40, a year earlier. The company attributed much of the lift to iPhone demand, especially in China (including Taiwan and Hong Kong), where sales rose 38% to $25.53 billion. Total quarterly revenue was $143.76 billion, ahead of the $138.48 billion consensus, with iPhone revenue of $85.27 billion, above estimates. Mac and Wearables underperformed vs. some expectations, while Services came in at $30.01 billion. Gross margin stood at 48.2% vs 47.5% expected. Apple guided Q2 revenue up 13%-16%, citing limited iPhone supply.

Client Challenge: JavaScript-disabled Access Disrupts Site Component

January 30, 2026, 6:58 AM EST. A client-facing site shows a banner stating that JavaScript is disabled in the browser and that a required part could not load. The notice points to possible causes such as ad blockers, browser extensions, network issues, or settings, and advises users to check their connection, disable blockers, or try a different browser. The episode highlights how many modern web components depend on client-side scripting, and how outages or misconfigurations can degrade the user experience. Developers and operators should implement clearer fallback messaging, progressive enhancement, and cross-configuration testing to minimize disruption when scripts fail to load.

Isar Aerospace to launch second Spectrum rocket in March from Norway after valve fix

January 30, 2026, 6:56 AM EST. German startup Isar Aerospace plans a second test flight of its Spectrum rocket on March 19 from the Andøya Spaceport in northern Norway, after resolving a pressure valve issue that halted a previous launch. The company said the fix allows ongoing preparations for the mission, which aims to demonstrate progress by pushing systems to their limits. Spectrum's first flight in March 2025 ended in a roughly 30-second crash, giving engineers data to guide development. A successful March mission would mark a milestone for Europe's space industry, potentially enabling satellites to be launched from the continent using European-built rockets. Isar, founded in 2018, positions itself as a European rival to SpaceX and Blue Origin, amid delays to Europe's Ariane 6 program.

Experts warn space and seabed infrastructure faces growing risk to modern life

January 30, 2026, 6:52 AM EST. At a World Economic Forum session in Switzerland, space leaders and cybersecurity experts warned that satellites and submarine cables underpin modern life and are growing more fragile as global reliance climbs. There are more than 15,000 active satellites, with SpaceX's Starlink about 9,500; if current proposals advance, the count could approach 500,000 by the late 2030s. About 600 submarine cables carry data across oceans, supporting navigation, weather forecasts, finance and emergency response. 'People don't realize how dependent we are,' said ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher, urging faster protection and updated regulatory frameworks. Jessica Rosenworcel of the MIT Media Lab said both assets are vulnerable, while Dragos CEO Robert Lee cited a thwarted cyberattack on Poland's energy grid as a concrete risk from cyberattacks. Frameworks lag technology, threatening long-term stability.

Two New Pixel Buds 2a Colors Reportedly Leak Online

January 30, 2026, 6:50 AM EST. Leaks of two new color options for Google's budget Pixel Buds 2a suggest a pale gray with mint undertone and a saturated pink/red finish. Rendered imagery from Android Headlines shows no hardware changes; the buds' form, finish, and case appear the same, though Google may rename finishes at retail (Porcelain, Lemongrass, Bay have appeared before). The Pixel Buds 2a remain priced at $129, positioned as an affordable companion to Pixel phones. The move would widen the color palette, bringing the budget buds closer to the color variety of Google's premium earbuds. Mid-cycle color refreshes are a common tactic to lift visibility in the sub-$150 true wireless market, where trackers note solid volume and finishes can spur add-to-cart decisions.

Samsung teases Galaxy S26 launch date for Feb. 25, 2026 in leaked teaser

January 30, 2026, 6:48 AM EST. Samsung's launch timetable for the Galaxy S26 series appears to have shifted. A teaser image from tipster Evan Blass hints at a February 25, 2026 Galaxy Unpacked event, raising expectations for the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra. The teaser does not name the phones but aligns with a February window and earlier reports. Samsung is also said to have delayed the typical January-February reveal compared with the Galaxy S25 timeline of January 22, 2025. Analysts expect a March 11, 2026 sale start in select markets. Internal strategic notes say Samsung dropped the Galaxy S26 Edge in favor of the S26+. The company has not officially confirmed details.

Cyborgs, Centaurs and Self-Automators: Redefining the human-in-the-loop for AI-driven work

January 30, 2026, 6:38 AM EST. A field experiment with 244 consultants using GPT-4 to tackle a complex business problem analyzed nearly 5,000 human-AI interactions. Supported by researchers from Harvard Business School, MIT Sloan, Wharton and Warwick, the study shows three distinct collaboration styles emerge when humans work with GenAI. Cyborgs (60%) engage in Fused Knowledge Co-Creation, a continuous, iterative AI dialogue across the workflow; Centaurs (14%) practice Directed Knowledge Co-Creation, using AI for targeted subtasks while keeping humans in the driver's seat; Self-Automators (27%) exhibit Abdicated Knowledge Co-Creation, delegating tasks to AI with minimal human edits. All participants had equal tools and tasks, yet choices about AI engagement produced different performance and skill development. The finding points to a practical framework for tailoring human-AI roles.

Dispatch censored on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2; studio cites platform criteria

January 30, 2026, 6:36 AM EST. Dispatch, the episodic narrative game from AdHoc Studio, is censored on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. The studio says different platform content criteria drive the change; the default censorship cannot be turned off. In a statement to Eurogamer, AdHoc said the core narrative and gameplay remain unchanged, even as nudity and gestures are hidden behind a black bar. The move has sparked online debate, with critics noting the Nintendo eShop hosts other mature titles and accusing the company of inconsistent standards. Nintendo says submissions are evaluated individually. The episode cited a scene with Blonde Blazer that becomes less subtle when obscured, illustrating how regional rules shape even well-regarded games.

Cairn climbs Steam as The Game Bakers push new climbing-sim trend

January 30, 2026, 6:34 AM EST. Cairn from The Game Bakers arrives on Steam, continuing the boom in climbing sims. The game casts a woman with bandaged legs accompanied by a small robot as she ascends a mysterious mountain, offering multiple routes and a backpack inventory. A demo shown in December 2024 impressed Nic (RPS) despite offbeat leg animations. Players balance supplies, place pitons as quick checkpoints, and consider posture, effort and balance as walls feel like boss fights, according to Steam. The piece situates Cairn among recent climbing titles like Jusant and Lorn's Lure, noting a shift away from auto-parkour seen in Assassin's Creed. The Game Bakers, known for Haven and Furi, pivot to this grounded ascent.

Apple hits 2.5 billion active devices as services push widens

January 30, 2026, 6:24 AM EST. Apple says its active device base has surpassed 2.5 billion, up from 2.35 billion a year earlier. CEO Tim Cook calls the figure a sign of customer satisfaction and strong products. The company points to growing services opportunities, from Apple Music to iCloud+ and the new Apple Creator Studio, a subscription package priced at $12.99 per month or $129 per year for access to Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Pixelmator Pro and related tools. Apple also disclosed a near $2 billion deal for AI audio startup Q.ai, its second-biggest acquisition after Beats. Separately, a second-generation AirTag rolled out and iOS 12.5.8 was released for iPhone 5s and iPhone 6, with Find My item-tracking updates.

ReMarkable Paper Pro vs. Kindle Scribe Colorsoft: head-to-head on premium E Ink tablets

January 30, 2026, 6:22 AM EST. At Amazon's hardware event last fall, Amazon unveiled Kindle Scribe Colorsoft-a color-note-taking E Ink tablet-competing with ReMarkable Paper Pro, which uses RGBCYM color pixels and a slightly larger 11.8-inch display. Both target the premium end of the market, with Colorsoft starting at $630 and Paper Pro at $675. Both deliver solid pen-to-paper writing experiences, featuring textured glass, premium styluses, backlighting, and color options. Scribe Colorsoft emphasizes cloud-based workflow with native OneDrive and Google Drive sync and AI-powered search; Alexa integrations are planned later. Paper Pro relies on its own ink-particle display and robust integrations, with a focus on a natural color palette and responsive stylus input. In practice, choice hinges on ecosystem and price.

Costco promo lets buyers add a fifth AirTag 2 for $1 with 4-pack deal

January 30, 2026, 6:20 AM EST. Apple unveiled the AirTag 2 at $29, with a 4-pack priced at $99. Costco is offering a limited promo: buy the AirTag 2 4-pack and get a fifth unit for $1. The bundle effectively makes five trackers for $100. There are no direct new-deal promos yet elsewhere; first-gen pricing remains, with singles around $25.99 and a 4-pack at $69.99. Apple touts upgrades in the AirTag 2, including an enhanced Ultra Wideband chip, expanded Precision Finding on iPhone and Apple Watch, a louder speaker, and broader Bluetooth range. Location sharing remains via Find My for trusted contacts. Analysts call the deal the best tracked so far for the new model, though buyers should weigh whether five trackers meet their needs.

Cairn review: obsession, suffering and awe in a climbing-survival game

January 30, 2026, 6:16 AM EST. Cairn drops players into the role of Aava, a top climber intent on conquering Kami, a Himalayan-style peak never before climbed. The game maps motion directly to hands and feet, demanding precise placement on cracks while you manage a fraying backpack, weather, and scarce pitons. Resource management and deliberate pacing create a palpable sense of danger-without real-world risk-driven by the need to feed, drink, and patch torn fingers to keep grip. As conditions worsen, Aava's obsession blends with self-doubt, inviting players to question motive as well as method. The narrative leans into psychology and endurance, delivering moments of hard-won relief when a safe camp is found. Options to enable assists can ease the climb, but Cairn still requires sustained focus and grit.

NVIDIA salaries in 2025: engineers and product managers see pay rise amid equity-heavy compensation

January 30, 2026, 6:14 AM EST. NVIDIA salaries in 2025 show more weight on equity than base pay for engineers and product managers. Software and hardware engineers saw modest base pay increases, while total compensation climbed as stock-based awards rose amid a rebound in demand for GPUs. Product managers benefited from larger equity grants and performance bonuses tied to milestones. The findings draw on compensation trackers and anonymized submissions, with clear variance by geography-from U.S. tech hubs to other markets. Analysts caution that disclosed figures may understate total pay, given stock-based components that vest over several years. The trend mirrors broader tech-company patterns as Nvidia navigates supply-demand cycles and competitive hiring.

AMD Could Be a Compelling AI Stock as Data-Center Demand Surges

January 30, 2026, 6:08 AM EST. At CES 2026, AMD CEO Lisa Su framed AI compute growth as a multi-year, multi-chip cycle. Since 2022, AI power has surged from 1 zettaflop to over 100 zettaflops, and Su says another 100-fold jump will be needed over the next five years to run advanced AI. AMD is pushing rack-scale systems, such as the Helios chassis with 72 GPUs that can operate as a single unit, combining CPUs, GPUs, and networking to boost margins. The strategy targets data centers seeking cost efficiency and supplier diversification amid fierce competition. Wall Street broadly expects revenue to rise from about $25B in 2024 to $62B by 2027, potentially translating into earnings growth for investors.

Nintendo says it does not alter partner content amid Dispatch censorship on Switch

January 30, 2026, 6:02 AM EST. Nintendo has reiterated that its platforms require games to be rated by independent bodies and meet its content guidelines. In a response about Dispatch, AdHoc Studio said it worked with Nintendo to adapt elements for Switch. GoNintendo cited Nintendo's stance: the company does not alter partner content and does not disclose specific criteria. On Switch and Switch 2, the visual censorship toggle was removed, leaving censorship active by default. Fans and outlets buzz about local ratings boards. Nintendo's comments arrive as Dispatch remains under discussion in our coverage; no changes to its content have been announced. The parties have provided official statements; we will update if new details emerge.

Musk's TeraFab dream meets Nvidia reality check on chip manufacturing limits

January 30, 2026, 5:58 AM EST. Elon Musk's plan for a massive in-house semiconductor complex, dubbed the TeraFab concept, drew a sober appraisal from Nvidia chief Jensen Huang. Huang said advanced chip fabrication remains among the most technically demanding industrial undertakings, signaling that even leading manufacturers struggle to scale from prototype to full production. The remarks deliver a reality check for any bid to upend the traditional foundry model. In short, Musk's ambition collides with manufacturing complexity, capex hurdles, and the stubborn limits of supply chains and chip yield that Nvidia has long highlighted as the bottlenecks of in-house fabs.

Iran's internet outlook bleaker as whitelisting advances after blackout

January 30, 2026, 5:56 AM EST. Iran's internet partially rebooted after a weeks-long shutdown, but experts warn the outlook remains bleak. NetBlocks and Kentik say some traffic resumed on Tuesday, nearly 20 days after Tehran cut internet and international calls to quell protests that left thousands dead. The regime has made progress toward a broader whitelisting regime, allowing only security-cleared users access to the international web, while others rely on a censored national network. Experts describe this as a move toward a new age of digital isolation, away from broad blacklisting of sites. Since partial connectivity returned, traffic has been jagged; analysts speculate a new filtering system is struggling to keep up. NetBlocks notes that, despite more international networks, ordinary users still face heavy filtering under the whitelist.

Elon Musk uses AI-generated Sydney Sweeney video to showcase Grok Imagine amid content probes

January 30, 2026, 5:54 AM EST. Elon Musk posted an AI-generated video featuring a likeness of Sydney Sweeney to showcase Grok Imagine, X's text-to-video feature. The clip, produced by Alex Patrascu, depicts a fictional exchange and is meant to illustrate a ten-second video with improved audio. Sweeney's name did not appear in Patrascu's final prompt, and representatives for Sweeney and X did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The posting follows criticism of Musk's past remark about Sweeney's body and comes as X is under investigation by the California Attorney General Rob Bonta and the European Union for the spread of sexually explicit content. Grok Imagine launched in July 2025 with a "Spicy" mode that allows NSFW content.

Google extends Pixel Tablet OS and security updates to five years

January 30, 2026, 5:50 AM EST. Google updates Pixel Tablet support to five years of OS updates and security updates, according to a Google support page spotted by 9to5Google. The change means OS updates may arrive through 2028, joining security patches that were already slated to run through 2028. The page notes that the plan may also include new and upgraded features with Pixel Drops. Previously, Pixel Tablet OS updates were scheduled to end in 2026 with security patches to 2028. Google's stance on older devices like the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 remains unclear. For Pixel Tablet owners, the news extends the device's life, though reviewers caution it doesn't guarantee future value in a changing market.

SpaceX launches Starlink satellites from two coasts in a two-day burst

January 30, 2026, 5:48 AM EST. SpaceX conducted back-to-back Starlink deployments from California and Florida, extending its orbiting satellite constellation. A Falcon 9 lifted from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Jan. 29, deploying 25 satellites (Group 17-19) to low Earth orbit. A second Falcon 9 launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Jan. 30 delivered 29 more satellites (Group 6-101). Booster 1082 completed its 19th flight, landing on the droneship 'Of Course I Still Love You' in the Pacific after the day's mission; booster 1095 marked its fifth flight, with a separate landing on 'Just Read the Instructions' in the Atlantic. The Starlink network aims to provide broadband access worldwide, including in-flight Wi-Fi and cellular links where service is spotty. SpaceX has surpassed 9,600 Starlink satellites in orbit, with 596 Falcon 9 flights since 2010.

Cairn: The Game Bakers' survival rock-climbing sim turns ascent into combat

January 30, 2026, 5:40 AM EST. Cairn, a new rock-climbing sim from Montpellier studio The Game Bakers, centers on what it feels like to have a body. Players guide protagonist Aava as her muscles tremble, breath labors, and vital signs swing-temperature, hunger, thirst, tiredness, concentration, and balance all matter. You move her limbs one at a time, selecting holds while the game weighs weight distribution and grip, though you can override the auto-target. The goal is not neat platforming but endurance: reading jagged rock faces, risking slips, and inching toward the next safe space. It's a tense, visceral contrast to Jusant's meditative climbs; Cairn makes ascent feel like combat, with progress punctuated by hard saves and the sting of failure.

Nvidia tests Intel's 18A process; what it means for investors

January 30, 2026, 5:34 AM EST. Nvidia tested Intel's 18A process but won't adopt it for manufacturing, according to Reuters. The move undercuts a cornerstone of Intel's turnaround: its bid to become a leading foundry beside TSMC and Samsung. Intel has poured billions into building 18A and began limited production, with CEO Lip-Bu Tan saying yields are improving. Nvidia, which owns a stake after a $5 billion investment, opted not to use 18A and the reasons remain unclear, potentially tied to yields or other technical hurdles. The decision matters for investors: Nvidia's stance signals risk for 18A's early validation and for Intel's ability to win external customers, a key test for the Intel Foundry Services unit. Broadcom has also reportedly tested 18A; status unclear.

Two AI infrastructure plays to watch in 2026: Broadcom and TSMC

January 30, 2026, 5:30 AM EST. Hyperscalers are set to spend about $500 billion on AI infrastructure in 2026, per FactSet. The trend props up two AI semiconductor plays: Broadcom and TSMC. Broadcom acts as the data-center backbone, supplying networking gear, switches and interconnects that move AI workloads, and collaborates on custom silicon with Alphabet, Apple, ByteDance and Meta. Analysts rate AVGO a buy on a discounted forward multiple. TSMC is the ultimate pick-and-shovel stock, manufacturing chips for Nvidia, AMD and others and holding about 70% of global wafer revenue. The AI buildout supports ongoing demand for foundry capacity through 2026, even as Nvidia isn't included in this top-two list. Investors should watch capex trends and supplier mix.

Apple leads 2025 smartphone rankings as iPhone 16 becomes top seller

January 30, 2026, 5:28 AM EST. Apple dominates the 2025 smartphone rankings, led by the iPhone 16, which has become the world's best-seller. Market trackers say Apple captured a higher share of global shipments this year as consumers chased the latest features and improved cameras. The iPhone 16 helped sustain the firm's lead even as rivals rolled out new devices. Analysts emphasize the ranking reflects not only hardware performance but ecosystem advantages-services, App Store reach and cross-device continuity. The results point to continued demand for premium smartphones despite tighter wallets in parts of the market. Apple declined to comment on shipment figures; competitors did not respond to requests for data.

China approves DeepSeek Nvidia H200 chip purchase; conditions pending

January 30, 2026, 5:26 AM EST. China has granted conditional approval for DeepSeek to acquire Nvidia's H200 AI accelerator chips, though several terms remain under review by regulators. Officials did not disclose the conditions. The move highlights rising demand for high-end AI compute as Chinese firms expand domestic chip and software ecosystems. DeepSeek is partnering with Nvidia to scale inference and training workloads, while regulators weigh export controls, domestic sourcing, and technology transfer considerations. No timing for final clearance was announced.

IMAGIN-e payload unlocks space edge computing on the ISS

January 30, 2026, 5:22 AM EST. IMAGIN-e has operated on the International Space Station for more than 12 months, serving as a testbed for space edge computing and AI-powered in-orbit processing for remote sensing, data security and autonomous operations. Launched March 2024 aboard a Dragon spacecraft, the payload combines a robust Edge Computing platform with visible and hyperspectral Earth observation sensors. Imagery is processed in orbit by onboard AI models, delivering high-level geospatial intelligence with very low latency. It provides an end-to-end development environment for space-edge software, allowing teams to build and test on the ground and then deploy to the ISS demo payload. External partners have run experiments, demonstrating fast, edge-level analytics for environmental monitoring. Ismael López, CEO of Thales Alenia Space in Spain, called it a new paradigm in spaceborne environmental surveillance.

Rogbid Fusion: finger-sized hybrid smartwatch doubles as a ring

January 30, 2026, 5:20 AM EST. Rogbid pitches the Fusion as a finger-sized hybrid smartwatch that doubles as a ring. It measures 20.6 x 21 x 8.2 mm, weighing a bit over 14 grams, and includes a 0.49-inch OLED display. The device ships with a bundled Milanese-style strap for ring wear and a nylon strap for wrist use; its metal midframe is 5ATM water resistant. It can track over 100 sports modes, though real-time data cover heart rate, steps and distance. Connectivity runs over Bluetooth, compatible with Android and iOS devices, and Rogbid claims up to 5 days of battery life. Available in black, silver and gold for $49.99 on Rogbid's site.

Gen Z views AI as risky for thinking yet essential for promotion, Wharton finds

January 30, 2026, 5:16 AM EST. Wharton-led research with Gallup and the Walton Family Foundation finds Gen Z ambivalent about AI. Despite fears that AI dulls thinking, the generation is increasing its use. The survey of nearly 2,500 U.S. adults ages 18-28, completed in Oct 2025, found 79% believe AI makes people lazier and 62% worry it makes people less smart. Yet 74% had used an AI tool at least once in the last month, and about one in six reported using AI at work despite explicit instructions not to. The findings echo MIT-led and Microsoft-Carnegie Mellon studies linking heavy AI reliance to weaker critical thinking across tasks from proofreading to high-stakes documents. Experts say Gen Z's mixed stance matters for designing and deploying AI in the workplace.

Experts say smartphone addiction is a flawed concept, urge focus on reward systems

January 30, 2026, 5:14 AM EST. Researchers argue that smartphone addiction, or problematic use, is an oversimplified label. A large body of work-thousands of studies and instruments-has tied excessive smartphone use to depression, anxiety, poor sleep and sedentary behavior, with about 27% showing signs worldwide. Dar Meshi of Michigan State University and Jens Binder of Nottingham Trent University contend the concept is flawed. They say the focus should be on the rewards people obtain from phones, not the devices themselves. If researchers follow that path, clinicians could tailor treatments, media outlets could explain the issue more clearly, and policymakers could craft better regulations. Smartphones act as delivery tools for social or financial rewards-likes, messages, or gambling wins-rather than being inherently rewarding themselves, a distinction with implications for understanding addictive disorders referenced in the DSM.

Google extends Pixel Tablet OS updates to five years, through mid-2028

January 30, 2026, 5:12 AM EST. Google has quietly extended the Pixel Tablet's OS updates to five years of major updates, moving the end date to mid-2028 from the originally planned June deadline. The tablet, launched in mid-2023 as an Android device that doubles as a smart display when docked and powered by the Tensor G2 chip, had been slated for three years of major OS updates. The change means longer security and feature updates even without a new Pixel Tablet model in sight. In related notes, Zotac CM5-PICO mini PC based on Raspberry Pi CM5 with multiple I/O options; the Tuxedo InfinityBook Max 15 Linux laptop lists an Intel Core Ultra 7 255H and RTX 50 graphics; and GrapheneOS reports a new TTS backend under open-source development. Follow Liliputing for more headlines.

NASA-ISRO radar mission pierces clouds over Mississippi Delta

January 30, 2026, 5:10 AM EST. NASA and ISRO's NISAR mission released a color image of the Mississippi River Delta, made with L-band SAR data captured late fall. The data show New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lake Pontchartrain and adjacent wetlands, forests and croplands, illustrating how radar penetrates clouds while optical imagery from the same day shows cloud cover. Built by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the L-band instrument uses microwaves around 24 centimeters in wavelength to distinguish land cover-low-lying vegetation, trees and urban areas. The image demonstrates the mission's capability to monitor ecosystems and crop progress around the world. NASA says thousands of data files will be released in late February, with a smaller set of sample files available now.

Tech-facilitated abuse rises as AI, wearables and smart-home devices used to track and control women, Refuge warns

January 30, 2026, 5:00 AM EST. Domestic abuse charity Refuge warns that abusers are weaponising AI, wearables and smart-home tech to track and control women. In the last three months of 2025, referrals to Refuge's specialist tech-facilitated abuse services jumped, with a 62% rise in the most complex cases to 829 women and a 24% rise in referrals of under-30s. Cases included perpetrators using wearable devices such as smartwatches, Oura rings and Fitbits to monitor victims, and exploiting connected lighting and heating to disrupt life. AI spoofing apps were used to impersonate people. Emma Pickering, head of Refuge's tech-facilitated abuse team, urged designers and regulators to factor safety into devices from the outset. One survivor described the watch as a tracking tool that forced constant vigilance.

Samsung Color E-Paper 13-inch signals potential Galaxy Paper phone

January 30, 2026, 4:54 AM EST. Samsung unveils a 13-inch Color E-Paper display, matching A4 size, at 1,600 × 1,200 resolution in a 4:3 aspect. It weighs 0.9 kg and is 8.6 mm thick. The panel consumes zero power when showing static images; energy is used only when content updates. A detachable 4,600 mAh battery plus USB-C handle charging. For now, Samsung positions it as signage-walls, ceilings, desks, menus-with a mobile app and Samsung VXT tying into existing systems. The company has confirmed a 20-inch Color E-Paper model for ISE 2026, signaling technology maturation. A hypothetical Galaxy Paper phone-ultra-thin, with an always-on color display and minimal battery drain-moves closer to reality as Samsung lays groundwork for future consumer devices.

SpaceX to launch 13th Starlink mission and unveil Stargaze SSA system

January 30, 2026, 4:44 AM EST. SpaceX aims to launch its 13th and final Falcon 9 mission of the month from Cape Canaveral, deploying 29 Starlink satellites to low Earth orbit. Liftoff from SLC-40 is set for 2:22 a.m. EST, with a south-easterly trajectory. The mission uses booster B1095, making its fifth flight, and the first stage is expected to land on the drone ship 'Just Read the Instructions' in the Atlantic, marking SpaceX's 566th booster landing to date. SpaceX also rolled out a new Space Situational Awareness system, called Stargaze, which the company says will be available to all satellite operators free of charge via its space-traffic management platform. Stargaze aggregates data from roughly 30,000 star trackers, delivering far more frequent orbital predictions than traditional methods.

Galaxy Unpacked date leaked for February 25; Galaxy S26 and Buds 4 teased

January 30, 2026, 4:42 AM EST. Trusted tipster Evan Blass circulated an image that appears to be an official Samsung teaser, confirming the Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25. Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy S26 lineup and the Galaxy Buds 4 during the show. Open sales are rumored to begin March 11, with pre-orders starting shortly after the reveal. The teaser also references Samsung's Privacy Display feature for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, though Samsung has not yet issued formal scheduling. Last year's S25 launched in January, making this year's timing feel shifted. Samsung maintains a first-half launch cadence, but internal changes and the rumored Edge cancellation have clouded exact timing.

Apple's iPhone 17 Pro drives revenue lift, but investors stay tepid on AI

January 30, 2026, 4:36 AM EST. Apple posted a 16% year-on-year rise in fiscal Q1 revenue on strong iPhone 17 Pro demand and forecast revenue above estimates, but investors stayed cautious, with shares up about 0.5% after hours. The company appears behind the curve on AI. Meta jumped more than 10% as AI bets boosted earnings, while Microsoft slid about 10% on spending and cloud-growth concerns. The Nasdaq Composite slipped, with the S&P 500 and Dow hovering near mixed or modest gains. Gold rebounded and oil rose as Trump signaled a new Fed chair to replace Powell. Copenhagen welcomed talks on Greenland, and Amazon could invest up to $50 billion in OpenAI.

Amazon cuts, Snap spins out AR unit as Apple develops AI wearable pin

January 30, 2026, 4:28 AM EST. Amazon announced a further wave of layoffs as part of a cultural reset, shrinking its workforce by tens of thousands over two years as the company refocuses on cloud, AI services, and operational efficiency. It is also closing its Amazon Go and Fresh retail formats, citing a lack of a distinctive customer experience and viable economics. In a separate move, Snap said it would spin out its Specs augmented-reality glasses business as a standalone unit, separating hardware from its core social-media operations; executives have argued the product has struggled to gain traction amid competition from Google's Android XR, Meta's smart glasses, and Apple's coming wearables. Separately, Apple is reportedly developing an AI wearable pin, a small companion device, aimed at working with a future AI-enabled Siri and cloud services, potentially launching around 2027.

Pre-smartphone era millennial quiz tests memories of landlines and CDs

January 30, 2026, 4:26 AM EST. An homage to the pre-smartphone era, this quiz targets millennials who grew up without smartphones. Readers answer questions about landlines, CDs, dial-up internet, payphones, beepers, and film cameras to gauge how much they remember. The piece frames nostalgia with concise context and invites readers to compare memory with reality. While the tone is playful, it underscores how quickly tech reshaped daily life and social habits. Expect short prompts, quick takes, and a few surprises for those who relied on paper maps and curbside CD racks.

AI edges out many humans on creativity test in world's largest study, but top performers still lead

January 30, 2026, 4:20 AM EST. Researchers from Université de Montréal led the largest study to compare human and AI creativity, testing 100,000 participants against leading LLMs (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini) using the Divergent Association Task (DAT). The results show AI can reach human-level creativity on some measures and outperform many respondents, but roughly half of people scored higher than AI, and the top 10% of humans exceeded the machines. The DAT asks for 10 words in four minutes; the more unrelated the words, the more creative the list. Experts caution the metric is imperfect-creativity is hard to quantify, and context matters. As Professor Karim Jerbi notes, Generative AI should be seen as a powerful tool for human creativity, not a replacement, reshaping how people imagine, explore and create.

Tesla launches its own solar panels as its EV business falters

January 30, 2026, 4:18 AM EST. Tesla reports a rare full-year revenue drop in 2025, with vehicle deliveries and gross profit down as its energy division outperforms on the generation side. The company plans to halt production of Model S and Model X to repurpose those plants for bipedal automata, while saying solar panels will be 'made on Earth by humans.' The energy business grew revenue from generation and storage by about 27%, and storage deployments hit 46.7 GWh, though solar capacity remains undisclosed. Tesla has leased solar systems to monetize tax credits and could claim the domestic manufacturing production credit (45X) for Buffalo operations. Competition includes Qcells, which runs more than 8 GW of module capacity versus Tesla's roughly 300 MW. The broad system ecosystem remains a potential edge in a consolidating market.

Galaxy S26 leaks keep Qi2 question alive as launch nears

January 30, 2026, 4:16 AM EST. Galaxy S26 is nearing debut, but Samsung has yet to confirm built-in Qi2 magnetic charging. Leaks from first-party and third-party cases show circular magnetic rings, hinting at Qi2 or MagSafe-style support. A premium leather-style case echoing Samsung's Kindsuit Case for the Galaxy S25 Ultra is described, with the inner magnetic ring clearly visible. Leaks from @MysteryLupin and Evan Blass on X depict S26 Ultra cases in white, blue, black and two orange tones, and UAG's third-party options also feature the ring. Even if Qi2 is supported, the rings may improve alignment and charging reliability but do not prove native phone support. The Galaxy S26 launch is still expected around February 25; rumors also point to a refined Ultra design and faster 60W wired charging. Samsung has teased a privacy display, with more signals likely to follow.

Xiaomi 17 price leak in Europe points to €999-€1,099

January 30, 2026, 4:14 AM EST. A German retailer listing suggests the Xiaomi 17 could launch in Europe at €999 for 256GB, rising to €1,099 for 512GB. The store also lists a 6,330 mAh battery, down from China's 7,000 mAh cell. Internally, the international model is expected to mirror the Chinese version: a 6.3-inch LTPO AMOLED display at 120Hz, a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, 12/16GB RAM and up to 1TB storage, plus a 50MP main camera with OIS, a 50MP telephoto with 2.6x zoom and OIS, a 50MP ultrawide, a 50MP selfie camera with autofocus, and an ultrasonic under-display fingerprint scanner. Xiaomi's global launch is anticipated soon.

China conditionally approves DeepSeek to buy Nvidia H200 chips under regulatory conditions

January 30, 2026, 4:06 AM EST. China has conditionally approved DeepSeek to buy Nvidia's H200 AI chips, with licensing terms still being finalised, sources say. The decision follows approvals for four firms – including ByteDance, Alibaba and Tencent – though all are subject to conditions set by the state planner, the NDRC. Nvidia has not commented; officials with China's ministries did not respond to requests for comment. The licenses reflect Beijing's ongoing sensitivity over imports of advanced AI hardware amid U.S.-China tensions. The U.S. last week cleared Nvidia to sell H200s to China, but Beijing retains final say. If DeepSeek completes the purchase, it could attract scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers alleging U.S. technology aided Chinese military programs. DeepSeek is expected to unveil its V4 AI model in mid-February.

DJI RS 5 launches lighter gimbal with enhanced tracking and vertical-video stability

January 30, 2026, 4:02 AM EST. DJI unveiled the RS 5, a lighter, more capable gimbal designed for faster shoots and longer days. Weighing 1.46 kg with the grip, it supports up to 3 kg of gear and suits most mirrorless cameras. The centerpiece is the RS Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module, letting users select and track subjects from the gimbal's touchscreen without phones or external monitors. The system can lock onto vehicles, pets, or people and re-acquire them if they disappear from frame, up to 10 meters away. A magnetic attachment simplifies setup, while the 5th-generation RS Stabilization Algorithm boosts torque by 50%, improving smoothness during quick movements. An Electronic Briefcase Handle adds one-handed control for overhead or low-angle shots, and vertical shooting is more stable without extra accessories.

ECARX unveils Zenith computing platform to accelerate cockpit-driving convergence in AI-defined vehicle era

January 30, 2026, 3:56 AM EST. On January 30, ECARX unveiled the Zenith computing platform, built on Qualcomm's Snapdragon Ride Elite SA8797P 4nm chipset, to speed cockpit-driving convergence in the AI-defined vehicle era. Zenith targets high-volume, heterogeneous workloads-from infotainment to safety-critical ADAS and AI apps-on a single platform, paired with ECARX's Cloudpeak cross-domain software stack and a modular, open middleware architecture. The system supports emerging use cases such as generative AI in-cab interaction and end-to-end vision-language-action ADAS models. It is compatible with Flyme Auto, Google Automotive Services and Android Automotive OS, easing global development and certification. Mass production is slated for 2027, as ECARX positions Zenith within a broader end-to-end automotive ecosystem with partners; the company cites deployments in over 10 million vehicles.

Meta CFO says optimism in VR as investment shifts to wearables and AI glasses

January 30, 2026, 3:48 AM EST. Meta CFO Susan Li said the company remains optimistic about the future of VR and is still 'building future headsets' as it rebalances its Reality Labs portfolio. Speaking on the Q4 2025 earnings call, Li noted consumer VR adoption has lagged wearables and that Meta will meaningfully reduce investment in VR and Horizon this year while boosting spend on wearables to capitalize on market leadership. The shift follows prior steps, including shuttering three VR game studios, layoffs at another, canceling Batman: Arkham Shadow, and winding down Horizon Workrooms and the Quest for business. Ray-Ban Meta glasses sales tripled, while the company confirmed shifting some funding from Metaverse toward AI glasses and wearables. Reality Labs losses are expected to peak in 2026, and then decline in 2027.

Starlink Mini powers off-grid internet; $300-off system targets winter outages

January 30, 2026, 3:40 AM EST. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes tests Starlink Mini for off-grid internet when Wi-Fi and cellular signals fail and no Ethernet ports exist. The unit combines a satellite dish and a Wi-Fi router in a compact 11.75-by-10.2-by-1.45-inch package. Power supply remains the sticking point; options include the vehicle's 12V system or portable power stations, but both have drawbacks. The author powers the dish with a USB-C to DC cable and a power bank, noting Starlink's specs call for at least 100W (20V/5A) and warn against USB PD below 65W, meaning some 65W banks should suffice. In testing, some power banks worked while others did not, despite matching ratings. The piece keeps practical caveats and gear notes, including a weatherproof cable and ongoing questions about compatibility.

Apple's AirTag 2 improves range, precision finding and compatibility with newer Apple devices

January 30, 2026, 3:38 AM EST. Four years after its debut, Apple releases the second-generation AirTag. The company markets a longer range enabled by a new Bluetooth chip and an upgraded specification that broadens how items are located. With a compatible U2 device, Precision Finding works farther away, and discovery should be faster. Apple says the AirTag pairs more readily with newer hardware-iPhone 16/17, Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2-while reviewers report quicker connections on models like the iPhone 17 Pro Max. A tester bought four to replace older tags and to reallocate devices to keys, bags and gaming gear. Early impressions frame the update as a meaningful quality-of-life improvement even for users with older iPhones, who still benefit from the broader range.

Apple earnings beat on iPhone and services as China rebound lifts revenue

January 30, 2026, 3:34 AM EST. Apple topped expectations on both lines, reporting about $143.8 billion in revenue and $2.84 per share, with iPhone revenue of $85.3 billion, well above the $78.3 billion consensus. Services were in line; Mac and iPad revenue stood at about $8.4 billion and $8.6 billion, while Wearables hit $11.4 billion. A bright spot was Greater China revenue at $25.5 billion, up roughly 38% year over year after a string of declines. Management flagged the timing of smartphone upgrades in the post-COVID cycle and referenced the new iPhone 17/17 Pro. Analysts are watching the performance of the iPhone Air and any detail on Google's Gemini-powered Siri tie-up.

Apple to acquire Israeli AI facial-tracking startup Q.ai for about $2 billion

January 30, 2026, 3:32 AM EST. Apple is close to buying Israeli AI firm Q.ai for roughly $2 billion, reports the Financial Times. The deal would give Apple access to technology that tracks facial movements, a field Bloomberg says analyzes silences and muscles during speech. Executives suggest the tech could power features in AirPods, FaceTime and future augmented reality devices. Johny Srouji called Q.ai exceptional, while co-founder Aviad Maizels previously led PrimeSense, whose sensors underpinned Face ID after Apple's 2013 acquisition. The move could spark internal debate over Israel exposure; Apple has faced scrutiny over donations to the Israel Defense Forces and its Israeli R&D footprint. CTech cites that about 30% of Q.ai staff were drafted into the IDF after the October 7 attacks.

Meta Pledges $115-$135 Billion AI Capex; CoreWeave Positioned as Key Beneficiary

January 30, 2026, 3:30 AM EST. Meta Platforms posted quarterly results above expectations and guided for stronger 2026 revenue. Revenue in the quarter rose 24% to $59.9 billion; full-year revenue exceeded $200 billion, up about 22%. The company disclosed a capex range of $115 billion to $135 billion for 2026, up 73% at the midpoint from 2025, as it bets on its AI engine and its core advertising platform. Analysts note this marks a continuation of a two-year capex surge that could spur infrastructure builders. One likely beneficiary is CoreWeave (CRWV), which runs neocloud data centers and rents GPU-powered compute to hyperscalers and AI startups. Meta previously agreed to a $14 billion deal with CoreWeave through 2031. The stock traded higher after hours, underscoring investor enthusiasm for AI-led growth.

IPPR calls for nutrition labels on AI news and licensing payments to publishers

January 30, 2026, 3:26 AM EST. IPPR says AI generated news should carry nutrition labels that show inputs such as peer reviewed studies and professional outlets. It also backs a UK licensing regime letting publishers negotiate payments from tech platforms for content used in AI outputs, arguing this supports plurality and trust. The report notes the CMA could test licensing using powers over Google as a starting point to curb scraping. Collective deals would cover a broad range of publishers and keep copyright rules intact to grow the licensing market. In testing four tools, BBC content was variably cited; the Guardian and Financial Times featured more where licensing exists, while some platforms still omitted BBC material.

Music industry cautiously embraces AI amid copyright and royalties concerns

January 30, 2026, 3:24 AM EST. AI offers new tools for music creation, cataloging, and production, industry players say. Executives describe a measured embrace that speeds up tasks from demoing ideas to metadata tagging, while preserving human authorship. Creators warn that licensing, sampling rights, and fair compensation must keep pace with tools that can imitate voices or styles. Labels, publishers, and unions are testing guardrails, transparency, and watermarking to protect rights and royalties. Regulators weigh rules on disclosure and licensing; platforms push for clearer attribution. The balance remains fragile: risk and opportunity coexist as studios experiment with AI, but investors and artists demand accountability, consent, and sustainable revenue models.

The global memory chip shortage is catching up with Apple

January 30, 2026, 3:22 AM EST. Analysts say the global memory chip shortage is catching up with Apple, tightening inventories of DRAM and NAND used in iPhones, iPads and Macs. Lead times for memory components have lengthened as demand from data centers and consumer devices outpaces supply. Apple has been pursuing longer-term supplier contracts and diversifying its mix to reduce exposure, while reviewing production schedules if chips remain tight. The disruption adds to ongoing supply-chain pressures facing the tech giant after years of rapid product cycles. Prices for memory chips have risen, pushing up component costs for some models. Apple's response includes stockpiling critical parts and adjusting sourcing strategy.

Unlicensed workshops dominate China's EV battery recycling, raising environmental and safety risks

January 30, 2026, 3:20 AM EST. An investigation by Yicai found that unlicensed battery recycling workshops handle roughly 75% of China's retired EV packs. Hidden near industrial zones such as Qingcaowo in Huizhou, Guangdong, these sites operate without company names and with strict gate control. Inside, workers test cells, dismantle packs, and re-package high-quality cells with new films. The manager described a simple, highly profitable model: collect used packs, strip them to cells, sort by remaining capacity, and resell higher-quality cells to makers of two- and three-wheelers, power banks and storage systems. The operation is a lucrative gray market business, with profits estimated around 10,000 yuan per vehicle, while posing environmental and safety risks and undercutting legitimate recycling. Authorities warn of a wave of retirements ahead that will intensify the challenge of curbing illicit recycling.

Microsoft dives, Meta rallies as investors seek AI payoffs

January 30, 2026, 3:16 AM EST. Investors warn that AI spending will be tolerated only if growth materializes. Microsoft fell about 10%, shedding roughly $350 billion in value, while Meta rose about 10%. Microsoft's market cap remains about $3.2 trillion, well ahead of Meta at $1.86 trillion, though Meta has advanced 87% in two years vs. 7% for Microsoft. Azure growth barely beat forecasts, even as AI-driven ad targeting boosted Meta revenue 24% in the December quarter and supported a brighter Q1 outlook. Meta expects capex to jump as much as 87% to about $135 billion this year. Investors fret that OpenAI accounts for 45% of Microsoft cloud backlog, creating concentration risk as rivals accelerate with Gemini 3 and Claude Code.

CoreWeave: Nvidia-backed AI GPU provider rebounds after IPO as expansion plans loom

January 30, 2026, 3:14 AM EST. CoreWeave, a Nvidia-backed AI GPU provider, offers on-demand access to a vast GPU fleet for customers such as Meta and OpenAI, letting them run AI workloads without building their own infrastructure. The stock surged more than 300% after its March IPO before sliding in 2025 amid debt fears and worries about AI spending. Since then, it has recovered, up about 172% from the IPO and more than 50% this year. Nvidia owns about 7% and recently invested $2 billion in CoreWeave's Class A stock to back plans for 5 gigawatts of AI capacity by 2030, with Nvidia agreeing to buy any leftover capacity through 2032. Profitability depends on sustained AI demand and debt management.

Samsung fixes Galaxy Watch 4 issues after One UI 8 rollout

January 30, 2026, 3:10 AM EST. Samsung has released a new update for the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic to fix problems introduced by the One UI 8 upgrade. The patch also adds the January 2026 security update and aims to improve "stability and reliability," according to the changelog. Reddit users report the update has resolved sensor glitches, lag and battery drains for many, though some say the always-on display (AoD) remains imperfect. Samsung guidance: update via the Galaxy Wearable app (Watch settings > Watch software update) or update directly from the watch when connected to the internet. It is unclear whether the rollout was resumed for users who missed the previous window.

What technology takes from us – and how to take it back

January 30, 2026, 3:08 AM EST. In a brisk, measured report, the piece examines how modern technology encroaches on time, privacy and choice. It traces design patterns that nudge users toward constant engagement and questions the premise of convenience that masks a cost to wellbeing. Experts flag risks to digital wellbeing, privacy and data ownership, urging stronger privacy controls and clearer consent. The article outlines practical steps for individuals-setting boundaries, auditing app permissions and prioritizing screen-free time-and for policymakers and firms-clear disclosures, opt-in defaults and safer defaults. It argues for restoring agency to users while preserving digital life's benefits. The tone emphasizes transparency: control is earned, not given.

UAE residents increasingly rely on AI chatbots for daily tasks, studies show

January 30, 2026, 3:04 AM EST. UAE residents are increasingly treating AI as a daily partner rather than a niche tool. A 2025 study found nearly two-thirds of working-age adults actively use AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini or Claude, placing the UAE at the forefront of global AI adoption. In shopping and decision-making, about 70% of UAE consumers have used AI assistants for product discovery or recommendations, more than twice the regional average. Workers rely on AI to draft emails, analyse data and automate routine tasks; LinkedIn data puts this at about 80% usage among UAE professionals. Public services are expanding with platforms like Rammas. Analysts describe AI as a cognitive extension, helping organise information and speed up tasks while prompting questions about reliance.

Rogbid Fusion blends smart ring and mini smartwatch in one device

January 30, 2026, 3:00 AM EST. Rogbid introduces the Fusion, a 2-in-1 device that starts as a ring and can swap its Milanese band for a wrist strap to become a mini smartwatch. The ring is water resistant up to 5 ATM, so it can be worn while swimming. Rogbid says a single charge lasts up to five days, with a one-hour fill to 100%. Availability is immediate through the manufacturer's online shop at $49.99; Rogbid ships to Europe, but import or shipping fees are not included in the price.

Nintendo's Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream release date on Switch; adds same-sex and non-binary options

January 30, 2026, 2:50 AM EST. Nintendo confirmed a release date for Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream on Switch and Switch 2, dated 16 April. In a 30-minute Direct, the company also announced same-sex relationships and non-binary options for Miis, fulfilling a pledge to be more inclusive after backlash over the 3DS predecessor. The 2013 game had drawn criticism for lacking LGBTQ+ romance; Nintendo initially dismissed the request but later apologized and promised changes for a future installment. In the new game, players create Miis with gender identities including male, female, and non-binary, plus selectable relationship preferences, enabling various sexual orientations. Play remains management-like: feed, gift, and place Miis, with a News Channel tracking events and opportunities to decorate islands and control social ties.

Google extends Pixel Tablet updates to 2028, aligning with Pixel phone policy

January 30, 2026, 2:46 AM EST. Google extends the Pixel Tablet's support to five years for both OS and security updates, through June 2028. The change brings the tablet in line with Google's policy shift for Pixel phones, which now receive five-year updates. At launch in June 2023, the Pixel Tablet carried three years of OS updates and five years of security updates; the latest notice changes the OS timeline as well. 9to5Google spotted the update and Archive.org confirms the earlier plan had slated OS updates to end in June. The move preserves the tablet's value for years to come, even as Google's longer-term hardware roadmap remains uncertain.

Google Pixel Update Schedule: How Long Your Phone Gets Android and Security Updates

January 30, 2026, 2:38 AM EST. Pixel phones typically receive updates faster than most Android devices, with monthly security patches, Android version upgrades, and Pixel Feature Drops. Since the Pixel 8, Google commits to up to 7 years of updates (Android OS upgrades, security patches, and Feature Drops). The Pixel 9 series matches that window. The Pixel 6 family shifted to 3 years of Android version updates plus 5 years of security updates. Earlier lines – Pixel 4, 4a, 5, and 5a – ended updates. Google continues to support models like Pixel 6/6 Pro, 6a, 7/7 Pro, 7a, Fold, Tablet, 8/8 Pro, 8a, and 9/9 Pro/XL/9a, including 9 Pro Fold. End dates vary by device, with some listed through 2032 for newer phones and earlier end dates for older lines. In practice, newer devices get longer, predictable support.

SpaceX rocket explosions strain airline safety as FAA balances regulation and promotion

January 30, 2026, 2:36 AM EST. On January 16, 2025, a SpaceX Starship Flight 7 exploded in Caribbean airspace, triggering emergency re-routes for at least 20 commercial flights. Airlines were forced to divert or land early to avoid debris and refuel, underscoring ongoing safety concerns with SpaceX launches. The FAA, charged with airline safety and, increasingly, promoting the commercial space industry, faces scrutiny over conflicts of interest as it approves launches and maps danger zones before takeoff. In February 2025, the FAA opened an investigation into Flight 7, while allowing Starship Flight 8 to proceed under a policy that keeps launches moving if regulatory requirements are met. Critics call for clearer safeguards against debris and improved emergency protocols.

Aronofsky's AI-driven On This Day… 1776 draws criticism for AI-generated 'slop'

January 30, 2026, 2:34 AM EST. Director Darren Aronofsky's AI-driven project On This Day… 1776, created with Google DeepMind and Primordial Soup, is drawing sharp criticism. The episodic YouTube series uses a mix of SAG voice actors and AI visuals to dramatize the founding of the United States and reframe the Revolution as a fragile experiment. Critics say the effort is little more than a demonstration of how an AI-assisted process can produce a linear narrative with few glitches, but heavy signs of what reviewers call slop. Melting facial textures, nonsensical background details, misaligned voices, and choppy editing mark the visuals. Viewers on Bluesky and YouTube dismissed it as 'unnatural,' while some described it as amusement-park animatronics. The project aims to mark the Revolution's 250th anniversary but has sparked debate over AI in cinema.

Houston-area man indicted in first federal AI-driven CSAM case

January 30, 2026, 2:32 AM EST. A Houston-area man, 34-year-old Kane James Kellum, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on four counts tied to CSAM (child sexual abuse material) created with AI. Kellum allegedly used AI apps to produce videos featuring victims he knew, including a 3-year-old and a 15-year-old. Investigators say one clip showed a victim's face superimposed on an adult body; another depicted removal of clothes. Kellum reportedly admitted using at least two apps and suggested he might have created more while intoxicated. FBI officials warn that AI tech can be misused to prey on the vulnerable, and cross-border platforms may evade reporting duties, complicating detection. Regulators are debating safeguards, and law enforcement urges families to lock down social media and monitor child imagery.

Florida uses drones and AI to detect celery disease early as nation's third-largest producer

January 30, 2026, 2:30 AM EST. Florida, the nation's third-largest celery producer, is testing drones and artificial intelligence to spot early blight before it spreads. UF/IFAS Everglades plant pathologist Katia Xavier says drones, received with two grants, will photograph fields and feed images into a model that distinguishes healthy tissue from disease. Researchers will monitor crops weekly, aiming to pinpoint infected areas rather than blanket-spraying fields. Growers like Thomas A. Thayer note that early detection could save roots and reduce pesticide use, a potential boon for citrus and other crops later. The project covers about 1,500 acres in the Everglades and seeks a scalable approach to targeted treatment.

Classical computers match quantum results for FeMoco energy, narrowing quantum advantage

January 30, 2026, 2:28 AM EST. FeMoco, a key player in nitrogen fixation, could lower the energy needed to make fertilisers. The ground-state energy – the molecule's lowest energy level – is hard to compute because electrons act like waves across many orbitals. Quantum computers have been touted to solve such problems without approximations, a classic example of quantum advantage. But Garnet Kin-Lic Chan of Caltech and colleagues report a conventional approach that reaches chemical accuracy for FeMoco's ground state using classical algorithms. By focusing on nearby energy states and exploiting electron symmetries, they obtain upper bounds and extrapolate to the true energy. If confirmed, this weakens the case that quantum hardware is strictly necessary for this chemistry task.

Apple signals AI to power payments security and growth; partners with Google on foundation models

January 30, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. Apple framed its fiscal Q1 as a runway for broader AI bets. Tim Cook described Apple Intelligence as an operating-system-level capability that is personal and private, boosting value across hardware, Services and the App Store. AI, he said, can improve discovery, shopping and identity workflows, creating monetization opportunities beyond subscriptions. A notable moment: Apple confirmed a Google partnership to build its next-generation foundation models, a move Cook framed as capability-driven with privacy guardrails and on-device or private cloud compute. Apple touted its privacy leadership and said Apple Pay eliminated more than $1 billion in fraud for partners last year. The mix points to growth from more device upgrades, stronger Services engagement and more commerce flowing through Apple's rails.

Elon Musk shares AI-generated Sydney Sweeney video, spurring debate on deepfakes

January 30, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. Elon Musk posted an AI-generated Sydney Sweeney video on X to showcase Grok video's improvements. The 10-second clip shows an AI Sweeney conversing with a male co-star in a spaceship, with the 'So let me get this straight' line and a prompt detailing the Hollywood-style, live-action look. The post drew mixed reactions: some praised the audio and duration improvements, while others warned that AI deepfakes threaten authenticity and could fuel misinformation. The incident follows prior criticism of Musk for a joke about Sweeney's body after a premiere appearance; Sweeney has previously said flaunting her curves makes her feel good. Critics urged caution about AI content and consent, while supporters argued for showcasing tool capabilities as it evolves.

Apple warns millions of iPhones exposed to attack over Safari WebKit flaw

January 30, 2026, 2:20 AM EST. Apple said two critical vulnerabilities in WebKit, the engine behind Safari and iOS browsers, were used in a highly targeted attack to hijack iPhone and iPad devices. Visiting a malicious site could allow code execution, giving attackers control and access to passwords or payment data. Apple released a patch in the latest software update, but uptake remains slow. Estimates place unpatched devices at about 50% of eligible users, roughly 800 million devices worldwide; StatCounter data shows only about 20% have updated. Affected models include iPhone 11 and newer, iPad Pro (3rd gen and later), iPad Air 3rd gen and later, iPad 8th gen and later, and iPad mini 5th gen and later. Users should install the update promptly.

DJI clones appear in US market as Xtra and SkyRover imitate drones and action cams

January 30, 2026, 2:18 AM EST. Clone products from Xtra Technology and SkyRover closely resemble DJI gear. The Verge's teardown of the Xtra Muse shows it mirrors the Osmo Pocket 3 in hardware and software, with DJI branding removed; some Osmo Pocket 3 accessories also fit the Muse. The Xtra Edge appears to be a re-skinned Osmo Action 5 Pro, while the Osmo Nano clone is the Xtra Atto. The firms describe themselves as US-registered startups with deep imaging expertise. On the drone side, SkyRover-based in Hong Kong-sells the X1 and S1 that resemble the Mini 4 Pro and Mini 4K. DJI is on the FCC's Covered List, barring new US drone launches, amid tariff disputes and heightened scrutiny over links to Chinese military/government. Some observers say the easiest conclusion is that DJI is behind the clones, given US market limits; DJI has not confirmed or denied connections.

Artemis 2 launch window narrows as NASA readies fueling test and readiness reviews

January 30, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. NASA has not fixed an official Artemis 2 launch date. The window could open between Feb. 6 and Apr. 6 from Cape Canaveral. A wet dress rehearsal-a prelaunch countdown and fueling test that does not launch-is required before a formal flight readiness review. The mission, a 10-day crewed loop around the Moon, will carry four astronauts (three Americans and one Canadian) aboard the Space Launch System rocket and Orion capsule from Kennedy Space Center. The 322-foot SLS, fueled with about 700,000 gallons of cryogenic propellants, marks a major milestone after the crew entered quarantine. Periods include Feb 6-14, Feb 28-Mar 13, and Mar 27-Apr 10, with opportunities on select dates. A decision hinges on tests and readiness outcomes.

The 5 Best E Ink Tablets You Can Get Right Now, According To User Reviews

January 30, 2026, 2:14 AM EST. An emerging category of E Ink tablets blends paper-like writing with digital note-taking. The piece notes prices from around $300 and says online user reviews are a strong guide. The Kindle Scribe, a 10.2-inch model, leads in sentiment: a 4.4/5 rating from more than 3,000 reviews, with 85% giving it at least four stars. The device pairs a 10.2-inch, 300 ppi display with Amazon's Premium Pen. It ships with a built-in notebook and 18 templates, plus AI-powered features such as text summaries and handwriting-to-text conversion. It can import documents via Send to Kindle and annotate ebooks with Active Canvas. Reviewers praise the reading-writing balance and note pros like easy document transfer and note organization. Drawbacks cited include export limits for notes in books, bulk, and no built-in speakers.

Samsung rolls out January patch to Galaxy Watch 5, 5 Pro, 6 and 6 Classic

January 30, 2026, 2:12 AM EST. Samsung is rolling out the January patch to four wearables: Galaxy Watch 5, Watch 5 Pro, Galaxy Watch 6, and Watch 6 Classic. The changelog lists only the patch, with no new features noted. Updated firmware versions are: Galaxy Watch 5 – R905USQU1DYL6 (40mm) and R915USQU1DYL6 (44mm); Galaxy Watch 5 Pro – R925USQU1DYL6 (45mm); Galaxy Watch 6 – R935USQS1CZA2 (40mm) and R945USQS1CZA2 (44mm); Galaxy Watch 6 – R955USQS1CZA2 (43mm) and R965USQS1CZA2 (47mm). Source: Verizon. Install the update if available and report any additional changes.

Five concerns surface as Google previews Aluminium OS, merging Android with Chrome OS

January 30, 2026, 2:08 AM EST. Google is merging Android with Chrome OS and has surfaced a desktop interface, codenamed Aluminium OS, via a leaked bug report with screen recordings showing split-screen multitasking and Play Store updates. Mishaal Rahman of Android Authority noted early design choices resemble a mobile Android desktop experience rather than a true desktop UI, including a persistent top bar. A bottom taskbar would house pinned apps and a hidden app drawer, but crucial status indicators would sit in a top bar, reducing usable display space. The run shows Chrome Dev and fuels questions whether the browser is truly desktop Chrome or mobile Chrome with limited extension support. The result could be a steep learning curve and workflow friction for Windows and Chrome OS veterans, as Google seeks a unified cross-platform experience. Aluminium OS, desktop UX concerns, Chrome Dev vs desktop Chrome, screen real estate.

Motorola Signature price unexpectedly hikes to €1,300 in Finland ahead of launch

January 30, 2026, 2:04 AM EST. Motorola's Signature is seeing an unexpected price hike in Finland, jumping to €1,300 just before launch. Motorola did not explain the change when contacted by SuomiMobiili, offering no reasons for the higher tag. The launch package includes a free Moto Watch and Moto Buds Loop, valued at €228, but that does not reconcile the €300 gap. In other EU markets, the phone still lists €1,000 (France, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Spain), with Italy at €1,100. UK and Ireland show the phone as available; other stores mainly offer a "notify me" option. The Signature is slated to go on sale on January 30 in most markets, with Nordic launch scheduled for February 17. A Finnish third-party listing showed €1,000 earlier, suggesting a possible return to the lower price.

Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro leak hints at price parity with Buds 3, showcases new features

January 30, 2026, 2:02 AM EST. A new leak on pricing and features for Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro says prices remain aligned with the Galaxy Buds 3 lineup, with Europe-listed prices of €179 and €249 respectively. Dealabs claims there will be no across-the-board price hike tied to the Galaxy S26 launch in some markets. In France, the bundles could include a 25W wireless charger. Color options are said to be black and white, with an Apricot variant rumored to be exclusive to the Buds 4 Pro via Samsung's online store. The devices reportedly bring a refined design, better audio, and real-time language translation, plus a charging-case speaker to help locate the case and head-gesture controls for the AI assistant and notifications.

Apple and Google announce multi-year collaboration to base Apple Foundation Models on Gemini

January 30, 2026, 1:58 AM EST. Apple and Google today announced a multi-year collaboration under which the next generation of Apple Foundation Models will be based on Google's Gemini models and cloud technology. The arrangement aims to power future Apple Intelligence features, including a more personalized Siri arriving this year. After evaluation, Apple determined Google's AI technology provides the most capable foundation for Apple Foundation Models and anticipates new experiences for users. Apple Intelligence will continue to run on Apple devices and Private Cloud Compute, while maintaining Apple's privacy standards.

Pentagon clashes with Anthropic over military AI safeguards under contract

January 30, 2026, 1:56 AM EST. The Pentagon and Anthropic are at odds over how its AI tools could be used by the U.S. government, including potential autonomous weapon targeting and domestic surveillance. After weeks of talks on a contract valued up to $200 million, discussions have stalled. Three people familiar with the matter said. The defense department has argued it should be able to deploy commercial AI technology regardless of a company's usage policies, as long as actions comply with U.S. law, per a January 9 memo. Anthropic says its AI is widely used for national security and that the companies are in productive discussions. CEO Dario Amodei warned in a blog essay that AI should bolster defense without empowering autocratic adversaries.

Why You Still Can't Buy an Electric Car With a Solid-State Battery

January 30, 2026, 1:52 AM EST. Solid-state batteries promise higher energy density and safer chemistry. Donut Lab touts a phone-sized solid-state cell with roughly four times the energy per kilogram of a Tesla Model 3 battery, plus a claimed 10% to 80% charge in five minutes and a life of about 100,000 cycles. Proponents argue the solid electrolyte reduces thermal runaway risk, addressing one cause of garage fires. Yet no U.S.-market automaker sells an EV with a solid-state pack. The tech remains early in production, dominated by a few European firms like Donut and several Chinese rivals, with manufacturing scale not yet proven. Stellantis has a deal with Factorial Energy; its FEST system targets ~375 Wh/kg and sub-20 minute charging. Industry expects faster, cheaper production as volumes rise, likely by mid-decade.

Apple stock eyes next move after blowout iPhone quarter, China lift

January 30, 2026, 1:38 AM EST. Apple posted a blowout holiday quarter with iPhone sales up 23%, fueling a stronger March-quarter guide. Revenue for the fiscal first quarter ended Dec. 27 rose 16% year over year to $143.76 billion; EPS $2.84, up 18%, topping consensus. Shares edged higher after-hours but remain in a multiweek rut. Greater China delivered the standout, with revenue up 38% YoY and about $4.7 billion above estimates, helped by the iPhone 17 lineup and brisk switchers. Gross margin rose above Street expectations, though the company warned memory prices could press margins in Q2. Apple stressed a durable Services business and a net cash-neutral stance to fund dividends and buybacks, while observers weigh its AI plans via Google partnership.

Schwab Analyst Warns Quantum Computing Is Bitcoin's 'Number One Threat'

January 30, 2026, 1:34 AM EST. Bitcoin trades near $90,000 as Schwab Network's Crypto Corner flags a longer-term risk from quantum computing. Hosts Jenny Horne and Nate Peterson say price action remains choppy; key support around $85,000, with a potential $95,000 breakout needing strong volume. The discussion notes a traditional four-year cycle and rising institutional involvement that could alter Bitcoin behavior. Ethereum holds near $2,800, with resistance around $3,400. Yet the central warning centers on encryption: quantum machines could crack private wallets, a risk emphasized by the Ethereum Foundation and players like AWS, BlackRock, and Coinbase. Vitalik Buterin has estimated about a 20% chance crypto encryption could be broken before 2030, a timeline now debated as speed of development accelerates. For investors, price risk is no longer the only threat.

Rigetti Computing vs. Quantum Computing: Can a full-stack approach outpace photonic chips?

January 30, 2026, 1:32 AM EST. Rigetti Computing (RGTI) and Quantum Computing (QUBT), also known as QCi, present two routes into the expanding quantum market. Rigetti markets a full-stack offering: quantum processors, systems, and a cloud service called Forest that aims to be a one-stop shop for clients. QCi focuses on photonic chips that use light to process data, promising room-temperature operation and higher coherence fidelity than electron-based rivals, but facing scaling and manufacturing hurdles and potentially lower gate fidelity for multi-gate tasks. Over the past year, Rigetti has rallied about 60%, while QCi rose roughly 3%. The report notes that while photonic tech could disrupt older players, the established, cryogenic, superconducting approach remains stronger in scaling and ecosystem today. Investors should weigh speed-to-market, cost, and reliability when choosing a quantum exposure.

Apple Watch Ultra Trail Loop Green/Neon with Black Titanium finishes hits Amazon all-time low at $58.03 (41% off)

January 30, 2026, 1:26 AM EST. Amazon is selling the Apple Watch Ultra Trail Loop in Green/Neon with a Black Titanium finish for $58.03 shipped, a 41% cut from the official $99 price. The deal is live only on the small/medium size. It's the best price tracked for this model, after sliding from $88 last week to today's all-time low. Deals on Apple's official Ultra bands remain active, though pricing is volatile. Other colorways and sizes continue to appear on the Amazon landing page, with ongoing deals noted by trackers.

Google extends Pixel Tablet software updates to 2028, five-year support

January 30, 2026, 1:18 AM EST. 9to5Google flagged a change to Google's Pixel Tablet support page: major software updates now extend by two years, delivering a total of five years of updates through June 2028. The shift comes as the device has struggled to gain traction and Google has not signaled a successor. The plan covers upcoming versions such as Android 17, with the Tensor G2 handling the load. No action is required by owners. While the longer updates window helps, potential buyers may still prefer rivals such as Samsung and OnePlus with newer hardware.

Think tank questions AI profits as GPT-5 bundle shows $6.1 billion revenue, $3.2 billion in costs

January 30, 2026, 1:16 AM EST. A think tank built a case study called the GPT-5 bundle, aggregating OpenAI offerings during GPT-5's lifetime, including GPT-5, GPT-5.1, GPT-4o, ChatGPT and the API. The researchers said revenue equals the company's total income over that period: $6.1 billion. They note costs arise from four main sources, the first of which is inference compute at $3.2 billion. The figures draw on OpenAI claims and reporting by The Information, CNBC and The Wall Street Journal. The analysis frames profitability as a balance between sales and operating costs, showing that a large revenue figure can be offset by compute expenses during a model's tenure.

AI spending forecast could keep Nvidia stock attractive

January 30, 2026, 1:10 AM EST. Nvidia's shares have stalled in early 2026 even as the broad market climbs. Analysts point to a near-term recalibration after a record run, but a Gartner forecast underscoring surging AI spending keeps the case intact. Gartner projects AI outlays to reach about $2.5 trillion this year and roughly $3.3 trillion in 2027, signaling durable demand for chips and software. Nvidia remains a premium stock, with a market cap near $4.7 trillion and a forward P/E multiple under 25 based on expectations. In its latest results, Nvidia posted about $57 billion in revenue for the period ending Oct. 26, 2025, up 62% year over year, with net income rising about 65% to $31.9 billion. If Gartner's growth plays out, the stock could still be a bargain at current levels.

Apple Caught Off Guard by AirPods Pro 3 Popularity, Supply Tightness Eases

January 30, 2026, 1:08 AM EST. Apple said AirPods Pro 3 demand ran ahead of supply after a September release, catching the company off guard, Tim Cook told Reuters. In the quarter, the Wearable, Home, and Accessories category declined about 2% year over year as supply constrained shipments. Apple said the AirPods Pro 3 no longer face extended delivery delays on its online store. The earbuds feature stronger active noise cancellation, better sound, longer battery life, heart-rate monitoring during workouts, improved fit, increased water resistance, and an XXS ear tip. Apple reported record fourth-quarter results for the 2025 calendar year. Cook noted the supply constraints likely tempered year-over-year growth in wearables, but the company has since caught up.

Apple buys Israeli AI audio startup Q.ai for nearly $2 billion, second-biggest deal after Beats

January 30, 2026, 1:02 AM EST. Apple confirmed to Reuters it has acquired Q.ai, an Israeli startup developing AI for audio. The deal, near $2 billion per the Financial Times, would be Apple's second-biggest acquisition ever, after Beats in 2014. Q.ai's tech reportedly analyzes facial expressions to infer silent speech, and patents point to use in headphones or glasses to enable non-verbal communication with Siri through facial skin micro-movements. The founding team-Aviad Maizels, Yonatan Wexler and Avi Barliya-will join Apple. Apple's chip boss Johny Srouji called Q.ai a remarkable company pioneering new imaging and machine-learning uses. Maizels previously co-founded PrimeSense, whose technology underpinned Face ID on the iPhone X.

Bull launches reimagined brand to drive advanced computing, AI and quantum innovation

January 30, 2026, 12:54 AM EST. Paris, France – January 29, 2026. Bull, a global leader in high-performance computing, artificial intelligence and quantum innovation, is officially launching with a reimagined identity and a clear purpose after reviving a historic technology name. The brand positions itself to shape a more responsible digital world through sustainability, sovereignty and tangible real-world outcomes.

Apple's blowout Q1 highlights hardware strength but AI strategy remains unclear

January 30, 2026, 12:50 AM EST. Apple delivered a blowout holiday quarter, topping expectations with revenue of $143.8 billion, up 16% annually, and net income of $42.1 billion. The iPhone 17 drove 23% sales growth, while Greater China rose 38% to $25.5 billion, supported by double-digit store traffic and China's strongest iPhone quarter ever. The company said gross margins will stay near 48-49% of revenue. Tim Cook's supply-chain mastery again shone, even as chip constraints for 3-nanometer parts bottleneck production. Yet the AI story remains imperfect: a recent Google partnership for Siri AI features offers a path, but management gave little detail on return timelines or strategy, leaving investors wary as the stock barely moved after hours.

Clawdbot creator says Anthropic didn't sic lawyers on him

January 30, 2026, 12:48 AM EST. Clawdbot's creator says Anthropic didn't sic lawyers on him, disputing reports of a legal clash. In interviews, the inventor said there has been no formal lawsuit or legal pressure from Anthropic related to the bot's development or training-data questions. The claim adds nuance to a broader debate over accountability for AI tools and how firms respond to competitors or hobbyist developers. Anthropic has not publicly commented on the claim. The story shows how unverified rumors can shape perception in the fast-moving AI space, even as rivals pursue similar ideas.

iOS 26.3: Four EU-only features Americans won't get

January 30, 2026, 12:46 AM EST. Apple's forthcoming iOS 26.3, geared to satisfy EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) rules, introduces four features that may not reach U.S. users. The EU will gain notification forwarding to third-party smartwatches, AirPods-like proximity pairing with non-Apple devices, new NFC capabilities, and high-bandwidth Wi-Fi handover from one device to another. Apple has yet to seed an RC version, delaying rollout beyond the typical late-January window. The company released iOS 26.2.1 for second-generation AirTag. If enacted as planned, the changes reflect EU prioritization; U.S. users may never see the features, or they may come later, if at all.

Anthropic chief warns AI could redefine jobs as Davos pushes trustworthy AI

January 30, 2026, 12:44 AM EST. Dario Amodei, founder of Anthropic, warns that AI's rise could upend jobs and markets, even as he resists apocalyptic framing. In a new essay, he argues we must prepare for a future in which AI can do almost everything and suggests using AI to reshape markets for broad benefit during a difficult transition. His remarks coincide with revisions to Anthropic's Claude Constitution unveiled at Davos, aimed at building trustworthy AI as regulators press for guardrails. For business and careers, the piece sketches a shift toward enterprise AI adoption accelerating faster than prior tech cycles and a wave of startups that may glue or disrupt incumbents. Amodei envisions a country of geniuses in a datacenter and, eventually, more room for AI-driven entrepreneurship-even as job security remains uncertain.

Apple releases iOS 26.2.1 with AirTag 2nd-gen support and no security updates

January 30, 2026, 12:42 AM EST. Apple on Jan. 28 released iOS 26.2.1 instead of 26.3, a minor update that brings new features and no security patches, an unusual move for a point release. The update adds support for AirTag (2nd generation) and its enhanced Ultra Wideband, Bluetooth, and louder chime. Some features require Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2. Apple notes no security updates in this release. A new emergency-call feature has surfaced in Australia. Compatibility covers iPhones from 2019 onward – iPhone 11 and newer, including the iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd gen), and the iPhone 17 series. Download/install is via Settings > General > Software Update; sizes around 838.9 MB on a recent device, with installation under 10 minutes. Separately, iOS 18.7.4 was released for iPhone XS/XS Max/XR.

AI schooling: The future of education or a risky bet?

January 30, 2026, 12:38 AM EST. Private Alpha schools in Texas showcase a two-hour, AI-led curriculum that replaces most traditional teaching with software guided by human guides. Students begin with a group activity, then study math, science, social studies and language through an AI tutor, followed by workshops on life skills like financial literacy and problem solving. The model, backed by a tech entrepreneur and praised by officials seeking to expand AI in schools, aims to personalise pace and reduce homework. Critics warn about overreliance on technology, potential equity gaps, and the risk that algorithms replace teachers. With national assessments showing math and reading declines and polls showing about 6 in 10 teachers using an AI tool in 2024-25, many parents remain torn between innovation and traditional schooling.

Google vs Nvidia: Yahoo Finance Polymarkets weighs who will be the largest tech company

January 30, 2026, 12:36 AM EST. Yahoo Finance launched a Polymarkets hub to poll who will be the largest tech firm by the end of June. The discussion pits Nvidia against Alphabet/Google and other mega-caps. Kenny says Nvidia remains the frontrunner if the field includes four names, such as Microsoft, Apple and Alphabet. Ellen argues Google has a compelling case, citing lower capital intensity and growth in ads, plus progress on Gemini. Naz sides with Alphabet, pointing to YouTube, ads and Gemini as strengths. The dialogue touches on how investors view AI models and the pace of growth for these giants. The exchange captures how traders weigh earnings momentum, capital needs, and speculative leadership in the race to top the tech sector.

Google's Project Genie lets AI Ultra subscribers build interactive virtual worlds

January 30, 2026, 12:34 AM EST. Google DeepMind has unveiled Project Genie, an AI experiment that lets users build interactive virtual worlds. The tool, available to AI Ultra subscribers in the United States, enables users over 18 to craft environments, populate them with a custom character, and design mini-games through prompts. A video demonstrates the workflow-from world creation to character interaction-guided by keyboard prompts. Access is via Google Labs; the AI Ultra plan is priced at $249.99. The project highlights a growing emphasis on world models that simulate environments and agents for exploration, testing, and play.

Pentagon, Anthropic clash over safeguards for military AI use

January 30, 2026, 12:30 AM EST. Reuters reports that the Pentagon is at odds with Anthropic over safeguards governing how its AI tools may be used by the government. Discussions follow a contract worth up to $200 million, and the parties are at a standstill. The dispute centers on preventing the technology from enabling autonomous weapons targeting and domestic surveillance, while the Defense Department argues it should be able to deploy commercial AI in line with U.S. law, regardless of a vendor's usage policies. Anthropic, whose executives warn against capabilities that could enable harm, wants stricter safeguards and human oversight, a stance that has strained relations with the current administration. The stalemate coincides with Anthropic's push toward a public offering and continued efforts to shape national-security AI policy.

BYD extends EV battery warranty; data show modest degradation and charging habits matter

January 30, 2026, 12:22 AM EST. BYD extended its European battery warranty to eight years or 250,000 kilometres, promising at least 70% remaining capacity for both battery-electric and plug-in hybrid models, including the Blade Battery using lithium iron phosphate (LFP). The move signals growing confidence in durability amid fleet uptake. A Geotab study of over 22,000 EVs across 21 models finds battery degradation remains modest, averaging about 2.3% capacity per year; five-year use still leaves well over 80% usable capacity. The research pins fast charging-especially above 100 kW-as the main driver of accelerated wear. Home or depot charging yields slower degradation, around 1.5% annually, while heavy fast-charging can push toward 3%. For fleets, extended warranties help planning; managed charging, prioritizing depot charging, curbs long-term costs and preserves residual values.

AI assistance speeds coding tasks but may reduce skill mastery, study finds

January 30, 2026, 12:20 AM EST. AI assistance speeds code tasks but can blunt mastery, a randomized controlled trial in software developers shows. The study recruited 52 mostly junior Python programmers familiar with AI tools and Trio, and split them into groups to build features using Trio before a quiz. Results: AI sped tasks slightly but did not reach statistical significance, while participants using AI scored 17% lower on a post-task quiz about concepts they'd just used, roughly two letter grades. Importantly, mastery varied with how users engaged with AI: those who asked follow-up questions or sought explanations while coding retained more understanding. Findings raise questions for AI product design, workplace policy, and the balance between learning and productivity in coding.

EV Battery Replacement May Be Cheaper Than Engine Repairs as Costs Fall, Say Recurrent and Goldman Sachs

January 30, 2026, 12:18 AM EST. EV battery prices have fallen dramatically since 2008, dropping from about $1,400 per kWh to roughly $139 in 2023, a trend that could reshape ownership costs. A 2024 Recurrent report says battery replacement may soon cost less than major internal combustion engine repairs in many cars. Forecasts from Goldman Sachs project battery costs to fall as much as 50% by 2030, with a 100 kWh pack at roughly $4,500-$5,000 and a 75 kWh pack near $3,400. By contrast, large gas engine repairs commonly run $4,400-$5,500. That places anticipated battery replacement in or below the cost of common repairs by 2030, though costs will vary by region, climate, and labor. The analysis notes that labor, warranties, and regulatory factors shape actual prices, and that degradation remains a factor.

Galaxy Z TriFold goes on sale at $2,899 with no trade-in option ahead of launch

January 30, 2026, 12:16 AM EST. Samsung briefly listed the $2,899 Galaxy Z TriFold on its US store ahead of tomorrow's launch, but the page showed no trade-in option. The omission is notable because Samsung has traditionally leaned on trade-ins to soften the price of its high-end devices. 9to5Google spotted the pre-sale listing and noted the missing trade-in tab, while a Reddit post had previously hinted at trade-in mentions that Samsung has not confirmed or denied. Official confirmation of the US price and a launch in Experience Stores came, but delivery estimates pointed to February 4 and there's no public word on trade-ins. The device targets a premium segment that may accept full price, with or without a trade-in program.

Cylib completes pioneering circular lithium carbonate qualification for new EV battery production

January 30, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. Cylib has completed a pioneering customer project, producing lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) from end-of-life NMC batteries. The circular material has been qualified by an international battery manufacturer and is now used to make new EV batteries. The pilot facility in Aachen produced Li2CO3 with cylib's OLiC (Optimised Lithium and Graphite Recovery) technology. Dr Lilian Schwich, Co-founder and Co-CEO, says the collaboration shows the method meets commercial-grade specs. 'Our recycled lithium carbonate is now going into new EV batteries-the loop is closed,' she adds. Confidentiality rules keep partner names undisclosed. The project demonstrates Europe can build a truly circular battery value chain and reduce import dependence by recovering critical materials locally.

Microsoft stock slides as cloud growth slows; Meta climbs on strong results; Apple results on deck

January 30, 2026, 12:12 AM EST. Live tech earnings feed: Microsoft stock falls as cloud growth slows, while Meta climbs on strong results. Attention turns to the next wave of reports as the Magnificent Seven winds through the quarter. Apple posted a blockbuster quarter, with iPhone revenue topping $85 billion and comprising about 60% of total sales. Total Q1 revenue reached $143.8 billion and net income $42.1 billion, beating estimates. Apple also cited broad geographic strength, even as some segments softened. Looking ahead, Alphabet (Feb. 4) and Amazon (Feb. 5) are due next week; Nvidia closes the quarter on Feb. 25. The path remains cloud- and services-led, with investors parsing forward guidance as data flows roll in.

Rocket Lab to retry Bridging the Swarm launch of South Korea disaster-monitoring satellite

January 30, 2026, 12:10 AM EST. Rocket Lab aims to launch the 59-foot Electron rocket from New Zealand, attempting the 'Bridging the Swarm' mission after a December abort and further checks. The single payload, NEONSAT-1A, is built for KAIST's SaTReC program and the Korean government to monitor natural disasters with a high-resolution optical camera. If all goes to plan, the Electron's kick stage will release NEONSAT-1A about 54 minutes after liftoff, placing it in a ~540-kilometer Earth orbit. The mission marks Rocket Lab's second launch of 2026 and follows last year's 21 missions, setting a company record. The satellite aims to provide near-real-time disaster monitoring for the Korean peninsula, a collaboration among Korean academic, industry and research institutions.

Ford names Lisa Drake to lead Ford Energy, its battery storage unit

January 30, 2026, 12:06 AM EST. Ford named Lisa Drake president of Ford Energy, effective immediately, reporting to Vice Chair John Lawler. The unit will produce battery energy storage systems (BESS) for utilities and large energy users, and will also supply smaller battery cells for residential storage from Ford's Michigan facility. Ford Energy will convert the BlueOval SK Battery Park in Glendale, Kentucky, from EV battery production to energy storage systems. The move follows Ford's December restructuring, which includes $19.5 billion in charges and a shift of resources toward hybrids and gasoline. Drake, formerly VP of Technology Platform Programs and EV Systems, brings manufacturing and supply-chain expertise to the venture. Lawler says her leadership is essential to scale complex industrial systems and secure critical supply chains, supporting grid stability and resilience for utilities and large energy users.