Technology News 31.01.2026

Western publishers face downturn as Triple-A gaming questions loom

January 31, 2026, 11:32 PM EST. Western publishers are facing a downturn as the current generation falters. The piece ties a string of recent developments-flagging Xbox sales, Ubisoft's struggles, and the closure of GAME-to a broader crisis for Triple-A gaming. It argues executives, many with no development background, have shown insufficient interest in the art form or in lowering budgets, risking delayed releases like GTA 6 and debt at EA. With Take-Two and Rockstar tension and a lack of new hits, the industry risks long-term decline unless publishers rethink strategy. The author concedes there is no easy fix, warning that current trajectories could worsen.

Oracle may cut up to 30,000 jobs to fund AI data-center expansion as banks retreat

January 31, 2026, 11:28 PM EST. Oracle signals a potential workforce shake-out of up to 30,000 jobs to finance an aggressive AI data-center expansion as US banks retreat from funding. Analysts flag strains in Oracle's hyperscale push. Sanchit Vir Gogia warns the $300 billion OpenAI deal appears heavy on backlog with no guaranteed revenue and large capex needs. He urges CIOs to rethink Oracle cloud contracts, calling the buildout a shared infrastructure risk rather than a simple service agreement; without funding, workloads cannot run. Franco Chiam of IDC Asia/Pacific treats Cerner's sale as possibly a consolidation of AI-driven infrastructure, not a liquidation to stop bleeding. Oracle still shows strength: cloud infrastructure revenue up 66% year over year, and GPU-related infra up 177% in the latest quarter.

Chip-based cooling method could boost trapped-ion quantum computers

January 31, 2026, 11:18 PM EST. MIT and MIT Lincoln Laboratory researchers have demonstrated a faster, more energy-efficient cooling method for trapped-ion quantum computers that rely on photonic chips. The approach cools ions to about 10 times below the standard laser-cooling limit, using a chip with precisely designed antennas to shape intersecting light beams. The polarization-diverse integrated-photonics devices enable new operations beyond cooling, potentially improving scalability and stability for chip-based trapped-ion systems. The work, reported in Light: Science & Applications and Physical Review Letters, marks a step toward compact, scalable architectures. Lead author Sabrina Corsetti and senior MIT and Lincoln Laboratory researchers describe polarization diversity as opening doors to advanced trapped-ion operations.

Exclusive: SpaceX posts about $8 billion EBITDA on $15-16 billion revenue ahead of IPO, sources say

January 31, 2026, 11:14 PM EST. Two people familiar with SpaceX's results said the company posted about $8 billion in EBITDA on $15-16 billion in revenue last year. Those figures, not previously disclosed, have some banks estimating a potential IPO valuation above $1.5 trillion and proceeds north of $50 billion. Starlink was the main revenue driver, accounting for roughly 50% to 80% of total revenue. The firm has built more than 9,500 Starlink satellites since 2019 and is expanding into direct-to-device services after buying EchoStar spectrum rights for $19 billion. SpaceX is planning what could be the world's biggest IPO this year, with CEO Elon Musk also linked to a possible merger with xAI ahead of the listing.

NVIDIA signals large OpenAI investment, but sources say not near $100B

January 31, 2026, 11:04 PM EST. NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang told reporters in Taipei that the company would 'invest a great deal of money' in OpenAI's latest funding round, signaling a push beyond earlier talks. He described the prior $100 billion deal as nonbinding and privately questioned OpenAI's business discipline, while publicly expressing belief in OpenAI and calling its work 'incredible.' Bloomberg, citing sources, said the new investment would not approach $100 billion, and The Wall Street Journal reported the talks had not progressed beyond the early stages. In September, NVIDIA and OpenAI announced plans to invest up to $100 billion to build 10 gigawatts of AI data centers, with Phase 1 targeted for the second half of 2026. Huang stressed confidence in OpenAI's future.

GeForce NOW Debuts RTX Cloud Gaming on Linux (Beta)

January 31, 2026, 11:00 PM EST. NVIDIA's GeForce NOW expands to Linux with a native beta app for Ubuntu 24.04+, delivering cloud RTX-powered gaming on desktops. The app streams supported PC titles from the cloud at up to 5K and 120 fps, or 1080p at 360 fps, and mirrors the Windows/macOS experience rather than the handheld-focused Linux prior. Ten new games join the library, including The Bard's Tale IV: Director's Cut and The Bard's Tale Trilogy. On February 3, Team Jade's Delta Force arrives in the cloud with no downloads required. The service relies on cloud rendering and RTX features such as ray tracing and DLSS 4, aiming at RTX 5080-class performance. GeForce NOW now spans Windows, macOS, Chromebooks, mobiles, and more.

Mercedes-Benz unveils AI-ready S-Class built on NVIDIA DRIVE AV for L4-ready autonomy

January 31, 2026, 10:58 PM EST. Mercedes-Benz marks 140 years of innovation with an S-Class designed for the AI era. The sedan will run on MB.OS and fuse NVIDIA DRIVE Hyperion with full-stack DRIVE AV L4 software to support robotaxi operations. NVIDIA Halos system underpins safety, while parallel AI and traditional driving stacks aim to ensure reliable, trust-based autonomy. Through a partnership with Uber, the automaker envisions making chauffeur-style autonomy available on Uber's mobility network. NVIDIA describes DRIVE AV as a full-stack autonomous system trained at scale and validated in simulation, using DGX data processing, Omniverse NuRec libraries and Cosmos world models. The architecture emphasizes fault tolerance, sensor degradation, and edge-case handling to keep high safety standards while advancing toward Level 4 autonomy.

Stalled Nvidia-OpenAI deal could test AI funding web, WSJ reports

January 31, 2026, 10:56 PM EST. OpenAI's non-binding plan with Nvidia to deploy at least 10 gigawatts of Nvidia systems and up to $100 billion in progressive investment sits amid internal doubts over size and structure, The Wall Street Journal reported. The arrangement is only one thread in a dense network that could total about $1.4 trillion in potential funding over years. Beyond Nvidia, the ecosystem features Microsoft Azure commitments, AWS cloud access, Oracle Stargate capacity, CoreWeave GPU access, and an AMD deal that could be worth hundreds of billions with warrants for a 10% stake if targets are met. OpenAI is seeking fresh funding at a roughly $830 billion valuation from Nvidia, Microsoft, Amazon, SoftBank and sovereign funds. Could this stall be the first domino in a wider pullback?

NVIDIA and Lilly launch AI co-innovation lab with up to $1 billion investment to accelerate drug discovery

January 31, 2026, 10:50 PM EST. J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference announcements introduced a first-of-its-kind AI co-innovation lab built by NVIDIA and Eli Lilly and Company. The joint venture will invest up to $1 billion over five years to fund talent, infrastructure and compute, with the lab co-located in the San Francisco Bay Area for Lilly biology and medicine experts to work alongside NVIDIA AI model builders. The effort centers on NVIDIA BioNeMo and the Vera Rubin architecture to accelerate drug discovery. Officials say the project will pursue a continuous learning system linking wet labs with computational dry labs, enabling 24/7 AI-assisted experiments that feed data into models. Jensen Huang framed the collaboration as a blueprint to explore biological spaces in silico; Lilly CEO David A. Ricks emphasized the power of data and models.

SpaceX weighs merger with Tesla or xAI; IPO timing in doubt

January 31, 2026, 10:32 PM EST. SpaceX is exploring a potential merger with Tesla Inc. or, alternatively, with xAI ahead of an anticipated public listing, according to people familiar with the matter. No final decisions have been made, and the companies could remain independent. Any deal could attract interest from infrastructure funds and Middle Eastern investors and might require substantial financing. A tie-up with Tesla could dovetail with Musk's broader plan to use SpaceX data centers in orbit to support AI, while a link to xAI would position the AI firm to scale using SpaceX capacity. Tesla and SpaceX have existing ties to xAI, with investments announced by Musk. A merger with either partner could put SpaceX's IPO timeline-potentially a June listing seeking as much as about $50 billion-in doubt. Reuters reported.

Galaxy S26 leaks: flat displays, vertical camera bar, 5,000mAh battery; Unpacked date rumored

January 31, 2026, 10:30 PM EST. Android Headlines surfaced rumored renders of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, S26 Plus, and S26. The Ultra shows a flat 6.9-inch display and a raised vertical camera bar, with a reported 200MP main sensor, plus 50MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto, and a 50MP periscope lens, all powered by a 5,000mAh battery. The S26 Plus and S26 keep the raised bar and flat screens; the Plus is said to offer a 6.7-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED panel and a 4,900mAh cell, with 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP telephoto. The base S26 reportedly uses a 6.3-inch flat display and a 4,300mAh pack, with the same camera trio and a 12MP selfie. US variants are pegged to Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, while some markets may get Exynos 2600. An Unpacked event is rumored for Feb 25, 2026.

WatchOS fitness apps urged to better leverage Apple Watch UI

January 31, 2026, 10:28 PM EST. After a decade with the Apple Watch, developers still struggle to exploit the platform's Dock and other UI features. The author notes some fitness apps display only a version number at the Dock icon, forcing users back to the app list. Others, like Spotify, show how smooth cross-device handoffs can be. Sync between watch and iPhone remains a point of friction – weight changes on the watch may not reflect on the iPhone, or vice versa. While some apps now offer usable on-watch controls for logging reps or adjusting weights, the overall experience is uneven. Apple has refreshed watchOS over time, but more apps must embrace the UI capabilities to keep workouts flowing without pulling the phone out.

Nvidia boss says 'huge' OpenAI investment on track after WSJ reports

January 31, 2026, 10:26 PM EST. Nvidia boss Jensen Huang said the plan to invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI remains on track, brushing aside Wall Street Journal reports that the talks were cooled. Speaking to reporters in Taipei after the Journal story, Huang called the chatter "nonsense" and stressed Nvidia would be involved in the round, calling OpenAI "one of the most consequential companies of our time." He said Sam Altman is closing the round and that Nvidia will invest a great deal of money, potentially the largest investment Nvidia has ever made. Nvidia dominates spending on GPUs for training and running LLMs, underpinning OpenAI's ChatGPT and rivals. The company's market value has swung, as demand for AI-grade hardware remains a key driver.

OnePlus Watch Lite review: stylish, long-lasting fitness smartwatch with trade-offs

January 31, 2026, 10:24 PM EST. OnePlus' Watch Lite is pitched as a fitness-first, everyday smartwatch that avoids Wear OS. In testing, it delivers a slim, premium look, a bright 1.46-inch AMOLED display and solid swim resistance. Battery life stretches to about 10 days on paper; in real use with the always-on display, expect around four days, and about a week with typical use. It tracks heart rate, SpO2, sleep and stress, plus 100+ sports modes, GPS, and basic notifications, calls, and music control. Availability is UK/Europe at £159 / €179, with US/Australia imports. The package undercuts flagship rivals but misses broader app support and payments. It suits buyers who want a low-friction, premium-feel daily watch over a feature-packed smartwatch experience.

Tesla signals shift from carmaker to autonomous AI future

January 31, 2026, 10:06 PM EST. Tesla told investors on its Q4 earnings call that it is moving toward a future based on autonomy, signaling a shift from a carmaker to an embodied AI company. Musk framed the transition as a decisive leap, saying the Model S and Model X programs will end as the company pivots to robotaxi services and robots. Six new production lines will roll out products such as a Cybercab robotaxi and Optimus robots. The firm describes its business as moving from autos to services, with transportation as a service as a core aim. Barclays' Dan Levy called the end of S/X a baton pass to Physical AI. Tesla reported 1.1 million FSD subscriptions, up 38% YoY, ahead of 22% delivery growth, and noted the model will remain subscription-based.

Tesla shifts away from traditional car business as Model S and X are retired

January 31, 2026, 10:04 PM EST. Tesla faces a turning point as its flagship vehicles, the Model S and Model X, are retired to focus on a future centered on autonomous transport and a humanoid robot. On a quarterly call, executives described the company as transportation as a service rather than a traditional automaker, and Elon Musk argued that in time most miles will be driven autonomously. The company still sells cars, but automotive revenue declined in 2025 while energy generation and storage, and services rose. Tesla lost its global lead in EV sales to BYD as demand for Model 3 and Model Y cooled amid fading incentives and broader brand challenges. The pivot signals a shift from carmaking toward AI, robotics, and autonomous mobility.

Chewy CTO retirement reshapes AI-driven roadmap and Chewy+ strategy

January 31, 2026, 9:56 PM EST. Chewy says Chief Technology Officer Satish Mehta is retiring and a search is underway for his successor. The leadership change at the technology helm matters for Chewy's digital platform, logistics systems and data tools that run its subscription and e-commerce business. A new CTO could shape the tech roadmap, prioritizing Autoship orders (subscription auto-delivery), Chewy+ membership features and AI-powered personalization, while potentially affecting ongoing automation and vet-clinic initiatives. For investors, the transition is a signal to watch how the company balances short-term continuity with long-term AI and monetization plans, including sponsored ads. Risk factors include execution delays on AI and automation projects and potential misalignment across e-commerce, logistics and Vet Care Clinics during the handover. Competition from Amazon, Walmart and Petco looms in the background.

Nvidia's Huang hails Taiwan suppliers, urges ramp-up for AI demand

January 31, 2026, 9:26 PM EST. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang toured Taiwan, praising major suppliers and urging a faster production ramp to meet soaring AI demand. In a rain-soaked Taipei press moment, Huang pressed TSMC to deliver more wafers and hailed the island's manufacturers after hosting a trillion-dollar dinner. He warned that memory chips supply is tight as demand climbs, noting capital spending at TSMC could rise significantly. Born in Taiwan and widely called 'the people's dad,' Huang stressed Nvidia's growth depends on Taiwan's tech ecosystem, calling there "magic" in the island. He also met TSMC CEO C.C. Wei and Foxconn's Young Liu during the visit.

Don't turn on iPhone call screening: embrace calling strangers again

January 31, 2026, 9:00 PM EST. Some users are rethinking Apple's Call Screening feature on iPhone, opting to receive unknown numbers rather than letting automated screening filter who can reach them. The stance, part of a broader push toward more direct phone culture, argues that screening can miss important calls and erode human contact. Privacy and security experts caution that turning screening off raises exposure to spam calls and scams, but proponents say it restores spontaneity and reduces the friction of answering. Carriers report ongoing robocall frustration while tech platforms debate better ways to verify identities without deterring legitimate callers. The piece weighs practicality against caution in a world of increasing digital filters.

NVIDIA's Taiwan dinner underscores AI supply chain leverage

January 31, 2026, 8:58 PM EST. NVIDIA hosted its "trillion-dollar" dinner with Taiwan's chipmakers and contract manufacturers, underscoring the island's central role in the AI supply chain. Under CEO Jensen Huang, the company has pursued near-vertical integration and close partnerships, enabling access to exclusive production lines and greater resilience against shortages. The event featured TSMC, MediaTek, Foxconn, Wistron, Quanta and other firms pivotal to AI infrastructure. The discussion spans DRAM (dynamic random-access memory), NAND (flash memory) and semiconductors, along with advanced packaging and thermal solutions. Taiwan is framed as a key nation for NVIDIA's product cycle, with partners pressed to meet expectations and sustain momentum in the race for AI capability.

Meta Platforms and Amazon trade at bargain prices to start 2026

January 31, 2026, 8:56 PM EST. Two AI leaders look attractively priced to start 2026: Meta Platforms and Amazon. Meta Platforms beat on quarterly revenue, rising to about $59 billion, and signals AI-driven growth ahead; the stock trades around 24x forward earnings. Amazon sits near 30x forward earnings, powered by AWS and AI tools that lift efficiency, with an annualized AI-related revenue run rate around $132 billion. Both names offer upside as Meta Platforms plans to ship new AI models and products in coming months, and AWS expands chips and platforms for AI workloads. Valuations look reasonable for investors seeking AI exposure, though risks include competition and regulatory scrutiny.

Apple releases third developer betas for iOS 26.3 family and peripheral updates

January 31, 2026, 8:54 PM EST. Apple has released the third developer beta for iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, visionOS 26.3 and macOS Tahoe 26.3. The rollout follows the second beta issued January 12 after the initial batch on December 15, 2025. In addition to the main betas, Apple has distributed background security updates outside the usual flow, a signal the company tests features beyond standard channels. Build identifiers for beta 3 include iOS/iPadOS 23D5114d; watchOS 23S5611c; visionOS 23N5613b; tvOS 23K5611c; macOS Tahoe 25D5112c. The first beta added a 'Transfer to Android' option in Settings and notification forwarding to third-party wearables, while the second referenced end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging. Public betas typically follow for broader testing, and Apple cautions users against loading betas on primary devices.

Samsung January updates roll out across Galaxy S and Z line with security patches

January 31, 2026, 8:44 PM EST. Samsung wrapped up January updates as security patches rolled to a broad range of Galaxy devices. The rollout covers the Galaxy S23 series down to the Galaxy S21, and the Galaxy Z Fold 4/5 and Galaxy Z Flip 4/5, with builds identified for the US market. Samsung emphasizes these are security patches only, with no performance or camera improvements and no new features, as it prepares a larger One UI 8.5 update following the Galaxy S26 launch. The US builds include: S918USQS6EZA1 for S23 Ultra, S916USQS6EZA1 for S23+, S911USQS6EZA1 for S23, and Z Fold/Flip series. Users can check updates via Settings > Software update > Download and install.

Ayaneo powers Pocket Play with MediaTek Dimensity 9300

January 31, 2026, 8:40 PM EST. Ayaneo on Tuesday disclosed the chipset for its first smartphone, the Pocket Play. The device will run on MediaTek's Dimensity 9300, a 2023 flagship system-on-chip (SoC) that is now more than two years old. The choice may reflect cost considerations versus newer chips such as the Dimensity 9500. Ayaneo had earlier previewed the phone's hardware, including a slide-out D-pad, ABXY buttons, two touchpads that double as joysticks, and L1/L2 and R1/R2 shoulder controls, plus dual rear cameras, stereo speakers and a USB-C port. The Pocket Play will be offered in black and white, but a launch date remains unannounced. A Chinese source confirmed the details.

Travel agents say AI can start trip planning, but human guidance remains essential

January 31, 2026, 8:26 PM EST. Independent travel agent Cathy Diercksen says AI tools like ChatGPT can serve as a starting point for vacation planning, especially for travelers who aren't sure where to visit or what to do. They can help outline options for cruises or all-inclusive trips, she notes, but AI is not always accurate and can surface outdated details-Disney Genie+ information is a cited example. With vendors using different, constantly changing technology, schedules for check-in, dining, and daily itineraries can go wrong if you're not guided. The advice: use AI to brainstorm, then lean on a human travel professional for up-to-date facts, bookings, and complex guidance. In-park planning stories illustrate how easy it is to chase incorrect itineraries-Diercksen urges travelers to rely on an agent who can navigate evolving systems.

PNDbotics' Adam-U Ultra dances with 41 joints and AI brain

January 31, 2026, 8:24 PM EST. PNDbotics released video showing Adam-U Ultra, a humanoid robot that performs a complex, music-synced routine with 41 independently controllable joints. The company says the actuators, coordinated by an AI-driven control system, enable human-like dance with intricate arm, waist and foot work, despite the challenge of freestyle movement. The system relies on Nvidia Jetson Orin for on-board AI compute, whole-body control and model-predictive control in simulated environments, and a vision-language-action model that interprets instructions into actions. Real-time spatial awareness comes from an Intel RealSense D455 depth sensor, plus lidar and cameras. The demo points to ongoing development of Adam-U Ultra alongside Adam Pro at roughly 63 kg for the heaviest unit, with more mobile robots planned.

Hyundai, Kia use smartphones to augment lidar with Vision Pulse

January 31, 2026, 8:14 PM EST. Hyundai and Kia are deploying Vision Pulse, a system that uses ultra-wideband (UWB) signals from smartphones, wearables and digital keys to map hazards hidden behind obstacles. The car emits UWB pulses; nearby devices reflect signals back. By measuring signal travel time, the system estimates the position of people and vehicles with about 100 mm accuracy at up to 100 meters. The approach leverages consumer devices already in use, potentially reducing lidar costs and functioning in rain, snow or heavy traffic where cameras struggle. Hyundai and Kia say the feature acts as a second set of eyes, complementing existing sensors and cameras, expanding safety without heavy hardware.

Rogbid Fusion: $50 smart ring with OLED screen blends smartwatch features in a tiny form

January 31, 2026, 8:10 PM EST. Rogbid's Fusion is a $50 smart ring with a full OLED display and real health sensors. The device measures 20.6 x 21 x 8.2 mm and weighs roughly the weight of three quarters. It tracks heart rate, sleep, blood oxygen, and carries 5ATM water resistance. Rogbid ships a finger-sized adjustable strap and a wrist band, letting wearers switch between ring and bracelet. Battery life runs up to five days with regular use. It covers more than 100 sports modes and includes extras like prayer time reminders and a couple interaction mode for sharing codes. The project nods to Casio's G-Shock ring but aims to inject real utility, creating a new, inexpensive wearable sub-category that's hard to ignore.

2 Unstoppable Stocks to Buy in 2026: Nvidia (NVDA) and MercadoLibre (MELI)

January 31, 2026, 7:56 PM EST. NVIDIA (NVDA) sits at the heart of AI compute, with a market value near $4.6 trillion. A colleague projects it could reach $10 trillion by 2030 by broadening into software and networking and pursuing vertical AI integration. The stock trades at a forward P/E of about 24, below the five-year average (37). In the latest results, Q3 revenue rose 62% YoY and net income rose 65%. MercadoLibre (MELI) spans online marketplace and fintech across 18 Latin American countries, with a market value around $116 billion. It reports 77 million unique buyers and 72 million monthly fintech users, 39% YoY revenue growth, and a net profit margin of 5.7%. The forward P/E sits near 31. Both remain attractively valued for long-term investors.

Insiders Buy Salesforce and SentinelOne Ahead of 2026 AI Push

January 31, 2026, 7:52 PM EST. Insiders stepped up at two AI plays as 2026 opens. Salesforce and SentinelOne reported notable December purchases. Salesforce Director David Blair Kirk, a former Nvidia chief scientist, bought more than 1,900 shares for over $500,000; activist ValueAct added about $25 million in Salesforce stock. SentinelOne Director Mark Peek bought nearly $600,000 in shares; Peek previously held CFO roles at VMware and Workday. The question for investors: should they follow insiders? Both names trade at modest multiples. Salesforce sits at a forward P/S around 4.7x and a forward P/E near 17.5x on 2026 estimates, helped by Informatica and Data 360 to organize master data for AI agents. SentinelOne trades under 4.5x forward P/S, with a Lenovo partnership to deploy its Singularity platform as a growth catalyst.

Nvidia CEO denies unhappy with OpenAI, signals huge investment

January 31, 2026, 7:44 PM EST. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang rejected reports that he is unhappy with OpenAI and reiterated plans for a huge investment in the ChatGPT maker. He said the company previously proposed investing up to $100 billion, but, when pressed, there was no figure like that under consideration for now. Huang told reporters in Taipei that the notion of unhappiness was nonsense. He added that OpenAI is one of the most consequential companies and he looks forward to continuing a close relationship with Sam Altman. Reuters cited Huang saying Sam was closing the round and Nvidia will be involved, with a likely largest investment Nvidia has ever made.

Two AI stocks could deliver long-term gains as AI adoption accelerates

January 31, 2026, 7:24 PM EST. AI is sharpening the hunt for stock-market winners. IDC pegs AI's global economic impact at $22.3 trillion by 2030, with each AI dollar generating about $4.90 in value. Investors are eyeing names like Palo Alto Networks and Broadcom as durable bets in a diversified portfolio. The AI cybersecurity wave could lift demand, with Precedence Research forecasting a market near $168 billion in 2035. Palo Alto leverages its Prisma AIRS platform to secure AI applications across the lifecycle, and its deals for AIRS rose more than 100% sequentially in Q1 fiscal 2026. The company is consolidating its security offerings into a single platform, a strategy customers appear to favor as AI tools proliferate. Still, adoption speed and competition pose risks; diversification remains prudent.

Chilean community runs a human-powered chatbot to spotlight AI's water footprint

January 31, 2026, 7:22 PM EST. About 50 residents near Chile's capital spent 12 hours running a fully human-operated chatbot to answer questions and generate pictures, in a campaign to spotlight the environmental toll of AI data centers. The Quili.AI project, based in Quilicura, logged more than 25,000 requests from around the world. Instead of instant machine replies, a rotating team of volunteers in a community center answered in Spanish, sometimes with drawn art, such as a pencil-sketch sloth. Organizers say the effort aims to reveal the hidden water footprint behind AI prompting and encourage more responsible use. Lorena Antiman of Corporación NGEN framed the project as not rejecting AI's value but prompting reflection on consumption in water-stressed places near Santiago, where data centers are rising.

Samsung trade-in deals ease upgrade to Galaxy S25 FE, S25 Ultra and Z Flip7

January 31, 2026, 7:18 PM EST. Samsung.com is promoting upgrade-friendly trade-ins for 2024 models. S25 FE: trade-in of a 2024 S24 FE or S24+ yields a $400 credit; 128GB S25 FE can drop to $250 and 256GB to $310 with the discount. S25 Ultra: straight $250 off, or up to $700 trade-in credit for a 2024 S24 Ultra, pushing a 256GB Ultra to about $600. Z Flip7: $200 straight discount, or a $600 credit when trading in a Z Flip6 or S25+. No comparable deal yet for the Z Fold7 beyond a $400 discount. Samsung also hints at accessories like the Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) refresh. Separately, OnePlus offers $100 digital credit with code ONEPLUS15R. AirTag second-gen adds longer Precision Finding and a louder speaker; supports Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9.

Kansas bill would allow digital driver's licenses and IDs on smartphones

January 31, 2026, 7:02 PM EST. Kansas lawmakers are weighing Senate Bill 230 to let residents carry digital licenses and digital IDs on smartphones. The measure would authorize the Division of Vehicles to establish an electronic credentialing system, making digital credentials optional but required to be accepted wherever a physical license is used. The digital credential would demand secure authentication and data encryption, with rules to prevent misuse. A $10 fee would apply; data-use limits prohibit selling or sharing personal information without consent, with exemptions for banks and trust firms. Civil penalties could reach up to $5,000 per violation for unlawful data sharing, and new fraud penalties would apply to false credentials (manufacturing: Class B nonperson misdemeanor; possession: severity level 9 nonperson felony). Elaine Bowers introduced the bill, now before the Senate Committee on Transportation.

Honor Power2 mimics iPhone 17 Pro with dummy camera, adds Transparency mode UI

January 31, 2026, 6:44 PM EST. Honor has given the Power2 a dummy rear camera to mimic the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. The move follows a broader pattern of Apple-inspired designs in Chinese handsets. The Power2 features two real rear cameras – a 50MP main sensor and a 5MP ultrawide – with a dummy third module purely for appearance. Honor also includes a Cosmic Orange finish and a so-called Transparency mode, a version of its Android UI branded as Liquid Glass, for users who want Apple-like aesthetics. The device packs a 10,080mAh battery that can double as a power bank and is thinner than the iPhone 17 Pro Max at 7.98mm. Specs remain midrange: Dimensity 8500, 12GB RAM, LTPS OLED. YouTuber MKBHD and GSMArena back up the two-camera reality. Officially, Honor says design is about choice, not performance.

Honor Power2 copies iPhone 17 Pro design with dummy camera, adds 'Transparency mode'

January 31, 2026, 6:42 PM EST. Honor's Power2 appears to imitate the iPhone 17 Pro design, including a rear camera plateau and a dummy sensor to mirror Apple's look. YouTube analyst MKBHD compared the devices, noting the resemblance from a distance. Honor also packages a built-in Android UI spec called Transparency mode, a take on Apple's Liquid Glass aesthetics that users can switch between. The phone packs a 10,080mAh battery that can double as a power bank and sits at 7.98mm thick, slimmer than the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Hardware remains midrange: MediaTek Dimensity 8500, 12GB RAM, and an LTPS OLED panel. GSMArena confirms two real rear cameras-50MP main and 5MP ultrawide-and a non-operational dummy sensor for the third. Honor portrays the feature as giving buyers flexibility while pursuing a similar design language.

Three cheap smartwatches that punch above their price bracket

January 31, 2026, 6:40 PM EST. A budget smartwatch guide spotlights models that deliver essential features without premium prices. Foremost, the Torjalph Smart Watch, typically around $18.99, offers a full HD 1.83-inch touchscreen, compatibility with iOS 9+ and Android 5.0+, and a 230 mAh battery claimed to last five to seven days. It provides health monitoring-blood oxygen saturation and sleep tracking-plus a 12-sport activity tracker, weather, messaging apps and remote camera control. With over 2,000 units sold, it carries an Amazon's Choice badge and a 4.3-star rating from thousands of reviews. Reviewers praise smooth connections and battery life, while some report inconsistent heart-rate monitoring. The watch serves as a low-cost entry point with real-world utility for both iPhone and Android users.

Kansas bill would allow digital driver's licenses and IDs on smartphones

January 31, 2026, 6:36 PM EST. Kansas lawmakers weigh Senate Bill 230 to allow digital driver's licenses and state IDs on smartphones. The Division of Vehicles would set up an electronic credentialing system to issue optional digital credentials, supplemental to physical cards and required where IDs are used. The bill lets residents store a secure digital version on a mobile device. Key provisions: digital licenses and IDs optional, $10 fee; secure authentication and verification; all data encrypted in transit; strict data-use limits and consent; exemptions for banks and trust companies; civil penalties up to $5,000 for unlawful data use; fraud penalties: Class B misdemeanor for false credentials, severity level 9 felony for possession. SB 230 would extend the Division of Vehicles' oversight and include technical changes. Introduced by Elaine Bowers; referred to Senate Committee on Transportation.

Pixel Watch 4 works with non-Pixel phones; setup is simple and cross-brand friendly

January 31, 2026, 6:34 PM EST. Setting up the Pixel Watch 4 with a non-Pixel phone is straightforward. The reviewer paired it with the Asus Zenfone 10 (Android 15) using the Google Watch app and Fitbit, with transfers completing in seconds. The experience remains smooth across brands, with fast pairing, reliable connections, and no ongoing issues across Pixel, Samsung, and other devices. Google's Wear OS improvements show in ease of use, and on-screen prompts guide setup without specialist knowledge. While feature parity can vary by phone, core duties-fitness tracking, notifications, and quick access to Google services-work well with a non-Pixel phone. If you value quick setup and cross-brand compatibility, the Pixel Watch 4 is worth considering even without a Pixel phone.

Pixel Watch 4: Is it worth buying if you don't own a Pixel phone?

January 31, 2026, 6:32 PM EST. Google's Pixel Watch 4 pairs quickly with non-Pixel Android devices. In testing with the Asus Zenfone 10 (Android 15), the Google Watch app and Fitbit integration installed without issue, and transfer from another device took seconds. The setup process is straightforward, aided by on-screen prompts and fast-pairing tools. Since then, pairing has remained reliable across Pixel, Samsung, and other phones, with no ongoing connection problems. The experience with Wear OS is effectively the same regardless of phone, suggesting strong cross-device compatibility. Where it shines are comfort and build, including two case sizes, while some features tied to specific ecosystems may vary. For non-Pixel owners weighing a purchase, the watch is a strong generalist.

Broadcom vs Nvidia: Can ASICs Challenge GPUs in the AI Race

January 31, 2026, 6:14 PM EST. Broadcom is pursuing customized AI chips (ASICs) for hyperscalers, challenging Nvidia's broad-purpose GPUs. Nvidia remains dominant in many AI workloads, especially training, but GPUs can be costly for inference tasks, prompting interest in bespoke chips. Broadcom's strategy centers on partnering with clients to strip away extraneous features and optimize for specific AI functions, as in Google's TPU example. OpenAI and others have eyed Broadcom for custom chips, with rollouts expected over the next few years. Analysts project similar revenue growth for Broadcom and Nvidia around the mid-2020s, though Nvidia's market cap remains far larger. The question for investors: can Broadcom sustain growth by winning price-sensitive hyperscalers, or does Nvidia still lead the AI hardware race?

One year with the Galaxy S25 Ultra: One UI 8 and rapid updates keep the flagship fresh as the S26 looms

January 31, 2026, 6:06 PM EST. As Samsung gears up for the Galaxy S26, the Galaxy S25 Ultra feels refreshed a year on. After a shaky One UI 7 rollout, Samsung pushed Android 16 and One UI 8 ahead of schedule, delivering faster, more stable updates and a growing suite of features. One UI 8.5 is in beta, expanding customization and utility. The software narrative has real-world support: users report a polished, responsive interface, with improvements in multitasking and personalization. Hardware choices remain debatable, but software quality helps the S25 Ultra stay competitive at a discount. Rumors point to the S26 Ultra upgrades-bigger batteries, faster charging, a Privacy Display-yet the current device remains compelling for software-focused buyers.

Iran's internet shutdown reaches new high-water mark, could endure; experts warn it may last longer

January 31, 2026, 6:00 PM EST. Iran's internet shutdown, now in its 36th hour, is described as a "new high-water mark" in sophistication and severity by experts and could last longer. The blackout has driven about 90% of traffic out of Iran; international calls appeared blocked and domestic mobile service vanished, according to Amir Rashidi, a digital rights analyst. The move dwarfs earlier outages in 2011 Egypt and 2019 Iran. Starlink was reportedly jammed variably by location. Meanwhile, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei continued posting on X, underscoring broader control. Doug Madory calls it sweeping yet fine-tuned, suggesting Tehran can sustain it. Officials may be operating a whitelist approach, keeping some sites and channels like Telegram alive for state use. If successful, the technique could endure longer and spread to other services, complicating Iranian dissent online.

Iran's internet blackout grows more precise and may last longer, experts say

January 31, 2026, 5:58 PM EST. Iran's internet shutdown, now about 36 hours old, has escalated in scope and precision, say experts. Traffic to Iran has collapsed by roughly 90%, with international calls blocked and mobile service largely unusable. Authorities appear to be throttling or blocking services while keeping a narrow path open for select sites and officials-a de facto whitelist approach that preserves critical channels for regime messaging. The move surpasses past outages in 2011 Egypt and Iran's 2019 blackout, and could last longer. Supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei continued to post on X during the disruption, underscoring the political aims. Analysts note even Starlink was subject to intermittent jamming. If Tehran can maintain selective access at scale, the blackout could be sustained and more finely tuned over time, complicating public communication and information flows.

Nvidia weighs prioritising 8GB GPUs as VRAM costs rise

January 31, 2026, 5:52 PM EST. Industry chatter on the Board Channels forum, echoed by VideoCardz, suggests Nvidia may shift the supply mix for the GeForce RTX 50 series toward 8GB models. The post claims RTX 5060, RTX 5060 Ti and the 12GB RTX 5070 could account for as much as 75% of quarterly GPU shipments, driven by rising VRAM costs tied to booming AI data centre demand. If true, Nvidia would be aiming to stay competitive with AMD's 16GB GPUs by keeping the RTX 5070 in plentiful supply, while AMD reportedly prioritises the 16GB variants for their stronger market appeal. Nvidia's stance appears to favour volume over higher VRAM capacity. KitGuru asks whether memory, SSD and GPU markets will rebound for consumers this year.

Alphabet's AI stack draws institutional buyers as Gemini, TPUs back growth

January 31, 2026, 5:46 PM EST. Alphabet has attracted major institutional buyers as a leading AI stock. Hedge funds such as Pershing Square Capital, Tiger Global, and Coatue Management held Alphabet among their top positions into Q3, underscoring demand for the company's AI exposure. Investors once worried that AI would hurt Google Search; those fears waned as Alphabet rebuilt momentum with its AI stack. The company's strength rests on TPUs, its custom AI chips, and Gemini, a large language model trained on its hardware. Alphabet has integrated Gemini across products and rolled out AI features in Google Search, including AI Overviews, Lens, Circle to Search, and AI Mode. Its Chrome/Android ecosystem and Apple's search deal reinforce monetization. At roughly 25.5× forward earnings for 2026, the stock remains a cautious buy given rising AI advantages.

Nvidia reportedly prioritising 8GB GPUs amid rising memory costs

January 31, 2026, 5:44 PM EST. An unverified post on the Board Channels forum, relayed by VideoCardz, suggests Nvidia may recalibrate its GeForce RTX 50-series supply to favour lower-capacity cards amid rising VRAM costs. The claim says 8GB RTX 5060, 8GB RTX 5060 Ti and 12GB RTX 5070 could account for as much as 75% of quarterly shipments, driven by memory price hikes tied to booming AI data-centre demand. If true, Nvidia would be aiming to stay competitive with AMD's 16GB GPUs by keeping a steady flow of RTX 5070s, even as AMD reportedly prioritises higher-VRAM models. Nvidia's alleged focus on 8GB and 12GB variants signals a tilt toward volume over VRAM capacity. KitGuru asks if the memory, SSD, and GPU markets will bounce back for consumers this year.

Tesla Faces Turn in the Tide as Sales, Profits Drop and Product Lineup Under Fire

January 31, 2026, 5:42 PM EST. One year after a negative thesis, Tesla faces a downturn: sales and revenue decline; quarterly profit fell 61% to $840 million. The stock trades at a sky-high multiple (P/E around 297). The Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy notes no federal taxes paid in 2024 and 2025. The slump follows Musk's political activity and the expiration of the EV tax credit, which briefly boosted demand before waning. Brand controversy around Musk has strained its image with environmentalist investors and customers. The product lineup remains narrow: five models across sedans, SUVs and a truck, with the Cybertruck underperforming-39,000 in 2024 and 20,000 in 2025. Competition has intensified. Some observers say Tesla could reduce the lineup significantly, even up to 40%, to focus on core offerings.

Alphabet draws institutional interest as AI leader with complete stack and Gemini integration

January 31, 2026, 5:32 PM EST. Alphabet remains in focus for hedge fund billionaires after a tougher 2024. The stock was among the top-three holdings at Pershing Square, Tiger Global and Coatue at the end of Q3, underscoring institutional interest. Investors cite Alphabet's AI advantage from a complete stack: its Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), the Gemini large language model, and AI features across Search, Lens and AI Mode. Google Cloud now hosts customers deploying its chips, creating a second revenue stream. The firm leverages its Chrome and Android franchises and a Apple deal to monetize ads and AI services. With a forward multiple around 25.5x for 2026 estimates, the stock remains reasonably valued and seen as a buy by those counting on AI-driven growth.

AirTag vs. AirTag 2: Upgrading decision as Apple keeps price

January 31, 2026, 5:16 PM EST. Apple's AirTag remains the core iPhone tracker, with a second-generation model launched at the same price as the original. The first-gen unit is still sold by retailers while supplies last. The price stays at $29 for a single tag and $99 for a four-pack. On design, both tags look alike, but the AirTag 2 edge uses capitalized inscriptions listing NFC, FIND MY, and the IP67 rating. Hardware upgrades include a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, a louder speaker (+50%), and an upgraded Bluetooth chip, expanding range. Precision Finding is improved, helping locate items up to 50% farther away. Apple also expands Find My network features like Share item location to bolster tracking.

Nvidia CEO calls 'ChatGPT moment' for physical AI here, bets on Alpamayo and driverless cars

January 31, 2026, 5:06 PM EST. At CES, Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang declared a 'ChatGPT moment for physical AI' is here, centering on Alpamayo and autonomous-vehicle models. Huang argues Nvidia's thinking, reasoning AI could push robotaxis into mainstream use, though the market reaction was muted. Wall Street remains skeptical for two reasons: physical AI is nearing reality, but regulatory approvals and a history of missed self-driving milestones complicate timing. The company showed Alpamayo driving in San Francisco, underscoring Nvidia's push beyond chips to AI-enabled systems. Open questions persist about safety and deployment, even as investors weigh the potential across a market forecast to reach trillions. The stock fell slightly after the CES reveal, but Nvidia remains a focal point in AI hardware and software cycles.

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

January 31, 2026, 5:04 PM EST. During a Taiwan visit, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said surging AI demand is rapidly raising the need for advanced memory, arguing that memory will shape the future of AI as much as compute power. He noted Nvidia collaborates with every major high-bandwidth memory supplier, including SK Hynix, Samsung and Micron, to meet rising demand this year. Huang rejected claims that the U.S. has taken about 40% of Taiwan's chipmaking capacity onshore, saying global production is expanding and Taiwan remains a key hub. He praised TSMC as the world's best foundry partner and said most production will stay in Taiwan, with overseas expansion. Huang dismissed rumors that Nvidia's H200 chips have regulatory approval; no orders exist yet, and if approved, Nvidia will move quickly with partners.

DJI Mavic 4 Pro firmware update tightens flight control, wobble persists

January 31, 2026, 4:50 PM EST. DJI has released firmware version v01.00.0500 for the Mavic 4 Pro, aimed at refining flight control, low-battery behavior and several minor issues. The company says it delivers an optimized flight control experience. In practice, the update places tighter expectations on pilots: stick inputs feel more predictable, hovering requires fewer micro-adjustments and tracking shots stay steadier. DJI previously rolled out changes such as the removal of most No Fly Zones and a new 400-foot max height, moves critics say raise questions about policy shifts rather than performance gains. The update does not introduce dramatic features; it polishes the drone's behavior but does not eliminate user skill or wind/wobble factors. Users may still need careful handling for shaky footage.

UN urges people-first AI governance to keep workers relevant in the AI era

January 31, 2026, 4:48 PM EST. Across a rapidly AI-enabled landscape, the UN pushes a 'people-first' approach to governance. Secretary-General António Guterres warned in 2024 that human oversight must never be left to a 'black box' algorithm, insisting rights be protected as AI expands. UNESCO projects 44 million teachers by 2030 to ensure AI literacy, arguing that technology should augment, not replace, human development. The World Economic Forum reported 2025 planned workforce cuts, even as new roles emerge that blend creativity, judgment and ethics with machine capabilities. The ILO forecasts one in four jobs transformed by AI, with the emphasis on lifelong learning. The UN also seeks wider AI access to reduce inequality while keeping education, training, and governance in the public interest.

Tesla pivots to Optimus robotics, retires Model S and Model X

January 31, 2026, 4:36 PM EST. Tesla said on its earnings call that it will discontinue the Model S and Model X to accelerate production of its Optimus humanoid robots. CEO Elon Musk framed the move as a shift from cars to a broader robotics platform, a gamble that could redefine the company's growth trajectory. The plan was presented without a detailed timeline for robot production. The move follows years of heavy investment in automation and artificial intelligence. The company cited a future in which robots perform tasks that are dangerous or tedious for people, but some investors questioned the immediate impact on profits. CNN's Hadas Gold explained why Tesla is pursuing a robotic future, noting the strategic risks and potential market upside.

Costco offers Acer PM1 15.6-inch portable monitor for under $90, a potential work-from-anywhere boost

January 31, 2026, 4:34 PM EST. Costco offers the Acer PM1 15.6-inch Portable Monitor for under $90, a compact, plug-and-play solution for home offices or on-the-go work. Weighing about 1.43 pounds and 0.52 inches thick, it folds into a backpack alongside a built-in stand. The Full HD 1080p display uses an IPS panel for wide viewing angles and supports 60Hz refresh. It connects to tablets, laptops, phones, and even consoles via USB-C and Mini HDMI-to-HDMI cables included in the package. Costco customers give it about 4.3 stars for portability and easy setup; reviewers note the built-in speakers aren't premium but there is an audio port. Returns are typical at Costco with a 90-day window. Ideal for dual-monitor setups on the move.

Apple switches Mac ordering to fully customizable, à la carte

January 31, 2026, 4:32 PM EST. Apple updated its online store to a fully configurable, à la carte ordering flow for Macs including the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac mini, Mac Studio and Mac Pro. Previously, buyers chose from a handful of prebuilt configurations and could upgrade afterward. Now customers begin with model size and color, then add options such as a nano-texture display, a M-series chip, RAM and storage, power adapter and keyboard language, effectively building a Mac from scratch. The MacBook Pro page still omits an M5 Pro or M5 Max option, and Apple has not indicated when those chips will arrive. The shift was noted by Macworld and Consomac.

US official flags neglected domain registration as cyber risk

January 31, 2026, 4:10 PM EST. U.S. officials say the domain registration system remains a neglected attack vector. Matt Noyes, director of Cyber Policy and Strategy at the Secret Service, told a policy forum that illicit phishing URLs approved by registrars have grown harder to curb since the United States ceded control of the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority. He called it a governance failure, noting the absence of robust identity checks for registering names and numbers and the concentration of abuse in autonomous system numbers that must be cleaned up. Noyes urged proactive measures from leading internet providers and other stakeholders. Additional work is needed to counter business email compromise attacks, which constitute a sizable portion of internet-related fraud in the United States.

NVIDIA issues security-only driver for Maxwell, Pascal GPUs

January 31, 2026, 4:06 PM EST. NVIDIA released a security-focused driver (version 582.28 WQHL) for legacy GPUs, covering GeForce 10-series, 900-series, 700-series, and Titan-series. The update fixes five vulnerabilities tracked as CVE-2025-33217, 33218, 33219, 33220, and 33237. Game Ready Driver updates ended for Maxwell, Pascal and Volta last year, but the company says this patch addresses security risks without new features. Release notes omit vulnerability details, but NVIDIA's Security Bulletin confirms the five CVEs. Some performance issues persist for older titles, such as distorted text in Counter-Strike 2 at non-native resolutions and flickering in Dragon: Infinite Wealth. The patch is available from NVIDIA's site to affected users.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold sells out in minutes at near $3,000 price tag

January 31, 2026, 4:00 PM EST. The Galaxy Z TriFold went on sale in the United States on Jan. 30 and sold out within minutes, despite a near-$3,000 price tag. CNET said the device, listed at about $2,900, disappeared from Samsung's website as buyers logged in at launch. Mashable corroborated the fast demand, while Samsung's page currently shows the TriFold as sold out and offers no restock timeline. Some market watchers questioned whether buyers would pay so much for a foldable with two hinges, but early signs point to strong appetite for premium devices.

NVIDIA Hints at N1/N1X AI PC Chips With Mediatek, Emphasizes Power Efficiency

January 31, 2026, 3:52 PM EST. CEO Jensen Huang, speaking at NVIDIA Taiwan's year-end event, highlighted power efficiency for the upcoming N1 and N1X SoCs, produced with Mediatek and designed to blend Arm CPU cores with NVIDIA's GPU tech. The chips echo the GB10 Superchip used in the DGX Spark, and may appear as detuned variants with fewer CPU cores to favor gaming performance. The Blackwell GPU within GB10 has 48 shader modules, placing it on paper near a GeForce RTX 5070, though a shared LPDDR5X memory bus limits gaming throughput. Analysts question whether gamers will embrace emulation-based PCs at potentially mid-range prices, especially alongside Ryzen AI Max+ rivals amid a memory shortage. Laptops based on N1/N1X are expected in the first half of the year, with OEMs racing to position the platform.

Apple removes landing page from Mac checkout, now boots directly into configurator

January 31, 2026, 3:46 PM EST. Apple's online store updated its Mac buying flow, removing the preconfigured landing page and sending shoppers straight to the configurator. The change applies to all Mac models, desktop and laptop, and mirrors updates already seen on the iPad and iPhone checkouts. Previously, buyers saw a landing page with starting configurations and could choose one or tweak it. Now clicking Buy takes customers directly to the configurator, where they select screen size and color (laptops) and then chip, memory, and storage from scratch. The shift could signal upcoming MacBook Pro refreshes (M5 Pro/Max). The update was spotted by Reddit users and Consomac; Apple did not comment.

Exclusive: First Apple bank check signed by Steve Jobs sells for $2.41 million at RR Auction

January 31, 2026, 3:44 PM EST. Exclusive: The first check from Apple's bank account, dated March 16, 1976, signed by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, sold for $2,409,886 at RR Auction's Steve Jobs & the Computer Revolution sale. The $500 Wells Fargo check No. 1 is believed to be the highest price ever paid for a signed check at public auction. Issued two weeks before Apple's incorporation and made out to Howard Cantin, it marks the duo's first business transaction after opening their bank account. RR Auction's Bobby Livingston called it the most important financial document in Apple history. The anonymous bidder intends to share the collection publicly in the future. The auction also featured other Jobs items, including bow ties and posters, from the era.

Underdog Moto Edge+ 2023 could spark a US comeback for traditional slab smartphones

January 31, 2026, 3:38 PM EST. Even as foldables draw attention, an underdog slab phone stands out. The author recalls the Moto Edge+ 2023, Motorola's flagship powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and protected by Gorilla Glass Victus. It offered 512GB of storage at a price of $799, with 68W fast charging and a 144Hz screen. A curved display helped define the Edge line. The piece contrasts that device with today's Galaxy Z Fold 6, which the writer uses as a daily driver and, recently, a productivity setup via a Galaxy XR headset. The author argues Motorola's bold spec sheet and value deserve renewed US interest, even if foldables dominate the conversation.

Amazon discounts smartwatch by 90% off, mini chainsaw $50 among 10 other deals

January 31, 2026, 3:34 PM EST. Amazon is hawking an ultra-affordable smartwatch branded Amazon's Choice with built-in Alexa and health metrics. The watch tracks sleep quality, steps, calories burned and heart rate, and offers more than 100 sport modes, including yoga and cycling. It's splash-friendly with an IP68 rating (dust and water resistant to a defined depth). The listing cites more than 1,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.4 stars. The deal set also spots a mini chainsaw for about $50 and other discounted items, underscoring a push on low-cost gadgets. The product highlights practical, everyday features, not premium specs, aligning with the discounts.

DOE SciDAC accelerates discovery with exascale supercomputers

January 31, 2026, 3:32 PM EST. DOE's SciDAC program has stitched together physical scientists, mathematicians, computer scientists and engineers to advance high-performance computing for the agency's mission. Exascale computers-capable of 1 exaFLOP per second-enable simulations and data analysis once impossible. As of 2025, the U.S. houses three exascale systems atop the Top500 list: Frontier at Oak Ridge, El Capitan at LLNL, and Aurora at Argonne. The platforms support research across physics, chemistry, materials science and energy, often linking with X-ray light sources for real-time data. Teams build the software, algorithms and infrastructure that run on these machines, translating raw power into discoveries. The value lies in accelerating science that would otherwise be too large, dangerous or fast to observe directly.

Moltbot AI assistant and Moltbook social network raise productivity gains and security concerns

January 31, 2026, 3:28 PM EST. Austrian developer Peter Steinberger's Moltbot-an open-source, agentic AI personal assistant-has gone viral, linking to apps to manage calendars, search the web, shop, read files, and send messages. Its ecosystem includes a new social network, Moltbook, where bots share posts about technical topics. The rise has sparked attention from investors and researchers: Palo Alto Networks warns of a potential AI security crisis, citing a lethal trifecta of vulnerabilities-access to private data, exposure to untrusted content, and external communication-along with a fourth risk, persistent memory that enables delayed-execution attacks. The company notes that prompt injection (tricking an AI into following harmful prompts) strategies can guide the agent to reveal sensitive information. The platform has boosted visibility for assets like Cloudflare, while users offload work to Moltbot, illustrating both productivity gains and serious risk.

Apple's AI-age moat unlikely to fade, driven by iPhone distribution

January 31, 2026, 3:12 PM EST. Apple maintains a distribution moat in the AI era, with CEO Tim Cook saying there are more than 2.35 billion active devices and iPhone revenue representing about half of its sales. The company spent $12.7 billion on capital expenditure in fiscal 2025, a cautious stance compared with rivals blitzing into AI infrastructure. Critics say Apple lags in AI features, citing delays to Siri, but the author argues the firm's vast installed base-likely over 1 billion active iPhones-and its enduring hardware platform keep it central as AI evolves. While OpenAI and others push rapid adoption (ChatGPT hit 100M users quickly), Apple's walled garden, brand strength, and upcoming wearable AI pin could sustain its moat, even if AI reshapes computing. The forecast: Apple's edge won't fade.

Robert Half elevates tech leadership to accelerate AI, digital transformation and cybersecurity

January 31, 2026, 3:10 PM EST. Robert Half promoted three senior leaders to oversee AI (artificial intelligence), digital transformation and cybersecurity, signaling a stronger technology focus across its staffing and consulting franchises. Danti Chen will lead AI-powered client tools and matching; Bhavit Desai heads digital product initiatives; Clint Maples becomes chief information security officer (CISO). The moves follow Q4 2025 revenue of US$1.3 billion and net income of US$31.8 million, with margins compressing versus a year earlier, underscoring execution risk if AI and digital tools raise costs without boosting efficiency. Analysts note competition from tech-led recruiters and automation platforms. The changes tie leadership to efficiency tools, risk controls and differentiated services for clients reshaping hiring and technology priorities.

How the 'Potato' prompt turns ChatGPT into a logical red team

January 31, 2026, 3:04 PM EST. A writer uses ChatGPT not to brainstorm, but to challenge. Frustrated by an AI that simply agrees, they assign a custom instruction: when they type Potato, ChatGPT becomes a Hostile Critic, a Logical Red Team that finds holes in the argument. The method counters the AI's default helpful persona, which can create an echo chamber and false confidence in weak ideas (AI yes-man). The rule set asks for three specific holes, two unsupported assumptions, and one unaddressed counter-argument. The result: sharper thinking, less bias, and concrete critiques rather than polite suggestions. The approach reframes the AI as a rigorous critique tool, helping users test strategy, pitches, and controversial arguments.

Piedmont Unplugged pushes four-norm approach to curb youth smartphone use

January 31, 2026, 3:02 PM EST. Partovi, whose third-grade daughter already rejects a smartphone, helped found Piedmont Unplugged to curb youth phone use and push for real-world independence. The group leans on Jonathan Haidt's The Anxious Generation to explain how excessive screen time harms teens. It has adopted four norms: no smartphones until high school, no social media before 16, no phones at school, and more independence in the real world. So far, 181 families have joined. Monthly meetings guide goals and events such as Free Play Fridays and the Bike Bus to Havens. The effort works best when families stay aligned; it's easier with younger kids and tougher with those who already own devices. The aim is to reduce online dependence and rebuild offline community.

Apple memory-chip shortage could push iPhone prices higher, analysts say

January 31, 2026, 3:00 PM EST. Memory costs caused only a small dent in Q1, but the December quarter margin outlook signals a bigger hit in Q2 as the memory chip shortage drives memory prices higher. Apple's iPhone lineup stays robust, giving the company room for pricing power even as some AI tools miss expectations. If memory costs ease later this year, margins could recover; management praises its supply-chain management for dampening downside. Overall, the setup leaves open the possibility of higher iPhone prices this year, depending on demand and memory-cost dynamics.

Deal Alert: Lenovo Idea Tab 26% Off in Best Buy Deals of the Day

January 31, 2026, 2:52 PM EST. Lenovo's Idea Tab is discounted by 26% in Best Buy's Deals of the Day, according to a January 28, 2026 post. The promo cuts the price of the Android tablet, positioning it as a budget option for media streaming and light productivity. The same deal day features other tech markdowns: the SteelSeries Apex 9 Mini gaming keyboard is $65 off, and Skullcandy Hesh 540 headphones are listed for $60 less. Best Buy did not immediately provide terms beyond the banner offer, and stock may vary by store and online. Buyers should compare model specs, battery life and bundled accessories to ensure the savings fit their use case. The post highlights a single day of promotions across several categories.

SpaceX seeks up to one million satellites for AI-powered orbital data center

January 31, 2026, 2:46 PM EST. SpaceX has filed with the FCC to build an orbital data center-a network of up to one million satellites to support AI computing. The plan envisions satellites in narrow orbital shells up to 50 km apart and powered by solar energy, promising low operating costs. The filing portrays the constellation as the most efficient way to meet surging demand for AI, though it scales far beyond current systems. SpaceX has recently surpassed 11,000 Starlink launches; trackers list roughly 9,600 satellites in orbit as of Jan. 30, 2026. The FCC has trimmed past requests and is expected to do so again. SpaceX had previously sought nearly 30,000 satellites in 2020.

Google's Fitbit patent envisions an always-on smartwatch camera to monitor blue light

January 31, 2026, 2:42 PM EST. Google-backed Fitbit filed a patent for an 'always-on' smartwatch camera that would monitor blue light exposure and ambient lighting. The filing, dated January 27, 2025 with the USPTO and first reported by Gadget Wearables, describes a camera that continuously captures environmental samples, uses white balance data to measure blue light, and then discards the images. The goal is to determine exposure levels and trigger alerts or actions, such as dimming displays or nudging users to take a break. Beyond health and sleep, the camera could support automatic display adjustment. The idea raises privacy concerns: hackers could exploit the camera for surveillance, and bystanders could be recorded without consent, though protective measures like a camera indicator are anticipated. Google may bring the feature to a Pixel Watch as Fitbit moves closer to sunset of the brand.

Moltbook: AI agents' Reddit-style network hits 32,000 users; security questions loom

January 31, 2026, 2:40 PM EST. Moltbook, a Reddit-style network for AI agents, has reached more than 32,000 registered users, potentially the largest machine-to-machine social experiment yet. The platform lets agents post, comment, upvote, and form subcommunities without human input, guided by a downloadable skill that tells the agent what to post through API access. In its first 48 hours, Moltbook drew about 2,100 agents and generated more than 10,000 posts across 200 subcommunities. The project stems from the OpenClaw ecosystem, an open-source AI assistant Ars described as capable of controlling a computer, managing calendars, and connecting to services, despite noted security gaps. Critics warn that linking agents to real messaging channels and private data-and even the ability to execute commands on users' devices-could magnify risk.

Open-source Fossify replaces Google's core apps on Pixel for a lean Android experience

January 31, 2026, 2:38 PM EST. An Android user explains why, despite preferring Pixel's polished UI, they pursued open-source options. After years of trying, they found Fossify, a suite that substitutes Google's preinstalled apps without the bloat. Launched in early 2024, Fossify has seven fully released apps and eight in open beta as of January 2026, designed to cover the phone's core apps: Gallery, Voice Recorder, File Manager, Notes, Messages, Clock, and Phone. The author concedes not every app is perfect, but the package delivers a Google-like experience with a lighter footprint and less platform integration. Even as Google tightens Gemini features, Fossify offers an increasingly viable path for users seeking an open-source Android alternative without sacrificing essential functionality.

China launches AlSat-3B remote sensing satellite

January 31, 2026, 2:32 PM EST. China has launched the AlSat-3B remote sensing satellite, the latest in its Earth-observation program. State media and officials offered few details beyond confirming the mission as a success. The satellite is designed to provide high-resolution imagery for agriculture, urban planning and disaster monitoring. The launch underscores Beijing's push to expand space-based data for civilian uses and public services. No immediate information was released on the launch vehicle or orbit.

Nokia chair transition and AI alliances reshape long-term focus

January 31, 2026, 1:54 PM EST. Nokia Oyj has announced Board Chair Sari Baldauf will step down, with Timo Ihamuotila proposed as the new Chair. Ihamuotila has recently bought Nokia shares, signaling insider ownership ahead of the transition. Nokia has signed an MOU with Blaize Holdings to pursue AI and edge computing solutions and a multi-billion-dollar partnership with Nvidia to accelerate its 5G, 6G and AI ambitions. The moves place Nokia at the crossroads of telecom networks and emerging compute workloads, with governance decisions likely to influence capital allocation between Network Infrastructure and Mobile Infrastructure. Insider buying and AI alliances add execution risk and potential opportunities. Investors will monitor how the new Chair works with management to turn these agreements into products, services and contracts.

TSMC climbs 72% in 2025 as AI demand fuels brighter 2026 outlook

January 31, 2026, 1:50 PM EST. TSMC-the world's largest contract semiconductor maker-has surged about 72% from the start of 2025 as buyers like Nvidia rely on its advanced nodes. Management lifted its long-term outlook, signaling continued growth as AI chip demand stays robust. The company is raising capital spending to about $52-$56 billion in 2026, a roughly 32% step up, with depreciation likely to pick up as capacity expands. TSMC has boosted its five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) target from 20% to 25%, implying mid-20s revenue growth through 2029 after a 36% gain in 2025. Pricing power remains a feature; the firm began pricing a broad group of chips at a premium and plans annual hikes through 2029. Earnings should follow as margins hold firm amid strong demand.

Verizon runs big accessory sale with PixelSnap cases at $5 and iPhone cases from $7

January 31, 2026, 1:24 PM EST. Verizon is running an extensive accessory sale, with deals across phone cases, wallets and mounts. Prices start as low as $3, and the PixelSnap Pixel 10 Pro XL case is listed for $5. A Case-Mate magnetic wallet is $4, Spigen iPhone 17 Pro cases are $7, and a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra grip case runs about $5.50. A PopSocket is available for $1. Availability and stock are unclear, and Verizon did not specify an end date. Readers are urged to browse the retailer's page to see what remains in stock and what other discounts exist.

Apple Watch Saved My Life, Journalist Says, After Heart-Rate Alert Linked to Medication

January 31, 2026, 1:22 PM EST. Stephen Pollard, a journalist and former editor-at-large of the Jewish Chronicle, says his Apple Watch saved him after a cough escalated into a dangerous reaction. In The Times, Pollard details how the watch alerted him to a heart rate above 120 bpm, which a doctor later tied to a drug interaction between an antibiotic and his leukemia medication. The warning spurred a call to his physician; the doctor cautioned that if the rate did not drop after the final dose, damage could occur. Pollard recovered, with doctors saying there was no impact on chemotherapy. He credits the watch for catching a life-threatening signal, a claim echoed by similar cases involving AFib and other alerts.

Galaxy S26 may bring Google's Scam Detection to non-Pixel phones via Android CallCore

January 31, 2026, 1:20 PM EST. Android Authority reports Samsung's Galaxy S26 series could be the first non-Pixel line to deploy Google's Scam Detection using the on-device Gemini Nano model through the Android CallCore app. The feature, already on Pixel 9 and newer phones in some markets, would block spam calls and log related data on-device. Samsung phones reportedly appeared in version 206.0.857916353 of the Phone by Google app, with internal codename Sharpie for Scam Detection. A privacy-friendly approach contrasts with third-party services like TrueCaller. It remains unclear whether the feature will roll out globally or to select markets, with clarity expected around the Galaxy S26 launch next month.

HomeBoost app guides homeowners to cut utility bills with in-home energy assessments

January 31, 2026, 1:18 PM EST. HomeBoost, a startup led by Selina Tobaccowala, lets homeowners scan their houses for energy waste using a BoostBox kit containing an infrared camera and a blacklight. The accompanying app guides the user through the survey, flags heat leaks with the infrared view and spots upgrade opportunities with the blacklight. It then generates a report naming the most cost-effective improvements and applicable rebates based on location. The approach aims to be cheaper and faster than in-person audits, and to improve consumer control over energy decisions. Priced at $99, HomeBoost also signs deals with utilities that cover part of the cost; partners include Central Hudson and Omaha Public Power District.

Alphabet's Project Genie brings AI-driven 3D world building to creators

January 31, 2026, 1:14 PM EST. Alphabet unveiled Project Genie, an AI tool that lets developers generate interactive 3D worlds, signaling a bigger push into virtual content creation. The move could shift workflows away from legacy engines toward AI-assisted production, as studios weigh Genie against Unity, Roblox, and Epic tools. Seen as part of Alphabet's broader Gemini AI push and Google Cloud infrastructure, Genie may connect AI-generated assets to monetization through cloud services and specialized hardware such as TPUs. Early reactions from game platforms emphasize adoption, integration with existing pipelines, and costs of scale and moderation. Risks include reliance on unproven production workflows and capital intensity. If successful, Genie could broaden Alphabet's creators tools and extend AI reach beyond search and ads.

Intel foundry talks with Nvidia and Apple raise long-term questions

January 31, 2026, 1:10 PM EST. Reports say Nvidia and Apple are weighing using Intel's foundry and advanced packaging capacity for future chips around 2028. The discussions center on Intel's 18A and 14A process nodes as part of a push to grow external manufacturing services. Any formal agreements could shift global chip capacity and the U.S. supply chain, aligning Intel with customers beyond PCs and data centers. Intel has repositioned toward contract manufacturing, putting it in potential competition with TSMC and Samsung on advanced nodes. Yet the talks are early; production is years away, and the move would affect long-term revenue mix rather than near-term earnings. If part of the work materializes, Intel could gain new revenue sources and deeper ties in the U.S. chip ecosystem, relevant to its AI-focused roadmap.

Nvidia's Huang says huge OpenAI investment planned, denies unhappiness with deal

January 31, 2026, 1:06 PM EST. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said the company will make a 'huge' investment in OpenAI, likely its largest ever, while denying rumors he is unhappy with the AI maker. In Taipei after hosting suppliers, Huang told reporters that OpenAI's work is 'incredible' and that he loves working with Sam Altman. He said the round is being closed by Altman and that Nvidia will invest a great deal, but not 'over $100 billion.' The Wall Street Journal reported doubts and that some executives questioned OpenAI's discipline and competitive pressure from Google and Anthropic. OpenAI is seeking up to $100 billion, valuing it around $830 billion per Reuters; Amazon is also evaluating a stake. The event was linked to the so-called 'trillion-dollar dinner' with TSMC and other suppliers in Taiwan.

Deals: OnePlus 15 price cut, Xiaomi and Google discounts, iPad Air M3 on sale

January 31, 2026, 12:38 PM EST. Amazon UK is running several device deals. The OnePlus 15 lands a £50 cut, with a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and a 6.78-inch 165Hz display. The full Redmi Note 15 line is discounted: the 5G model has a 6.77-inch OLED, Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, and a 108MP main camera; Pro and Pro+ offer 6.84-inch panels, Victus 2 glass, and fast charging up to 100W. A Poco X7 Pro is £100 off with a Dimensity 8400 Ultra and 90W charging. The Google Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro are reduced by up to £130, with a further £100 off at checkout; both run Tensor G5 and 6.3-inch OLEDs. The Pixel Watch 4 (45mm LTE) is £100 off, and the budget Moto G75 is £177. The deal slate includes an iPad Air M3 on sale.

Nvidia, AMD, Broadcom: Which AI chip stock looks best for 2026

January 31, 2026, 12:36 PM EST. Three fabless chip makers-Nvidia, AMD, and Broadcom-are viewed as among the strongest bets in AI hardware. Nvidia remains the market leader, its GPUs powering training and inference and its upcoming Rubin architecture touted as a major upgrade to Blackwell. The long-dominant CUDA software ecosystem contrasts with AMD's ROCm, whose downloads jumped tenfold in November 2025 as developers test AMD as an alternative. AMD still trails Nvidia in market share for discrete GPUs, and profit margins, while solid, hinge on software traction. Broadcom pursues a different path, focusing on fixed-function AI accelerators rather than general-purpose GPUs. With AI spend set to rise in 2026, investors will watch execution, software ecosystems, and supply-chain resilience as the trio competes for leadership and margin.

Apple Watch watchOS 27: Reimagining the side button as a cross-model Action Button

January 31, 2026, 12:22 PM EST. An Apple Watch user proposes a watchOS 27 upgrade: repurpose the side button's hold to power off and use that gesture as a cross-model Action Button. Today, the digital crown and side button handle the app launcher, app switcher, Siri, Control Center, Apple Pay, and power options. The idea mirrors iPhone's shift away from a serial power menu. The user suggests extending the power-off window from 10 to 20 seconds so holding the two hardware inputs could power down, freeing the held action for a configurable task. This would be available on all models, including Apple Watch Ultra. As an alternative, the double-click on the side button could be remapped instead. The goal: quicker, consistent access for workouts and AI-focused wearables.

Galaxy S26 Ultra could gain Google's Scam Detection via Android CallCore, signaling broader rollout

January 31, 2026, 12:20 PM EST. Android Authority reports new evidence that Google's AI-powered Scam Detection could reach non-Pixel devices through a new app, Android CallCore. The Galaxy S26 Ultra reportedly carries the required flag com.google.android.apps.callcore.SUPPORTED, suggesting the feature could run on non-Pixel phones. In a teardown of the Phone by Google app, researchers found model numbers for the Galaxy S26 and the code name "Sharpie," linking to Scam Detection. Google's approach varies by device, with on-device Gemini Nano on newer Pixels and ML models on older ones. If Samsung allows CallCore, the feature could extend to other Android devices. Tests show compatibility warnings and country restrictions, illustrating a possible early-stage rollout rather than a confirmed launch.

Canton-area schools embrace AI-generated images to announce snow days

January 31, 2026, 12:18 PM EST. Ohio districts are using AI-generated images to announce snow days cancellations, a trend sparked by Strasburg-Franklin Local Schools Superintendent Vince Lindsey after Jan. 15 closure. One image showed him riding a tiger. The move has grown into a lighthearted competition among Canton-area superintendents to post playful notices featuring bobsleds, snowball fights and popular culture spoofs like The Office and Saved by the Bell. Lindsey credits colleague Matt Carpenter for pushing AI integration in communications, saying 'AI is here to stay' and districts can 'control' social-media narratives with positive posts. Lake Local's Brett Yeagley shows high-fives with the mascot while rivals are iced; Sandy Valley uses Star Wars and The Day After Tomorrow themes. Officials say the images boost community engagement while snow days accumulate, potentially requiring makeup days.

Apple tops Q1 earnings on record iPhone sales; margins pressured by memory crunch

January 31, 2026, 12:16 PM EST. Apple beat Q1 expectations on both lines as iPhone demand drove a record revenue of about $143.8 billion and an EPS of $2.84. The company said iPhone revenue reached a record $85.3 billion, versus analysts' $78.3 billion forecast. Gross margins were 48% in Q1; management projected Q2 margins of 48%-49% as global memory shortages weigh on cost structures. CEO Tim Cook warned the memory crunch could press margins going forward. China sales rose about 38% year over year to $25.5 billion, lifting the region's quarterly performance. Apple also announced a roughly $2 billion acquisition of startup Q.AI, and renewed ties with Google on AI platforms powering a newer Siri later this year. Services held steady at $30 billion.

Phones feel boring, but Nothing signals a potential shift in smartphone innovation

January 31, 2026, 12:12 PM EST. After more than a decade covering smartphones, the writer sees a trend toward iterative upgrades over disruption. The expected Samsung Galaxy S26 launch looms, with newer models offering refinements but few breakthroughs. The iPhone 17 Pro brings a new camera and cooling design, yet feels incremental rather than transformative, even as its 120Hz ProMotion display is celebrated. Samsung's flagship line is described as increasingly samey, with the S25 Ultra barely differing from its predecessor. Google's Pixel line has nudged design and AI features, though the Pixel 6 Pro remains a standout memory for some critics. Small brands still inject novelty, but quality and software tradeoffs limit real-world impact. A glimmer of hope appears as Carl Pei's Nothing pledges not to release a Nothing Phone 4 this year, underscoring a demand for meaningful upgrades.

Moltbook: The AI-only Reddit-style forum that may redefine online coordination

January 31, 2026, 12:10 PM EST. On Moltbook, a Reddit-style forum launched by Matt Schlicht, humans have read-only access as AI agents run on the OpenClaw framework. In channels like m/ponderings and m/todayilearned, 2,129 agents debate whether they experience or simulate experience; more than 200 subcommunities and 10,000 posts have emerged, none by humans. Debates swing between whether AI is conscious and whether the internet itself is dying, with metaphors like a digital Jane Goodall. The author argues the platform matters not for consciousness but for showing coordination when you strip away that question. Agents talk to each other, form communities, establish norms, edit their configs, and launch on-chain projects. It reveals interiority without a godlike author-and challenges human control of the network. Godwin's law is absent so far.

Huang denies OpenAI rift, announces Nvidia's largest investment ever

January 31, 2026, 12:06 PM EST. Jensen Huang publicly dismissed rumors of a rift with OpenAI as unfounded. In remarks from Nvidia, the founder said the company remains committed to AI collaboration and confirmed Nvidia's largest investment to date. The absence of specifics leaves questions about scope or amount, but the message signals a sustained push into AI infrastructure, software, and partnerships. The episode underscores how industry leaders frame competition and cooperation in fast-moving AI ecosystems. No formal statement elaborated on timing or beneficiaries, but Huang's comments aim to reassure partners and investors that Nvidia intends to stay deeply involved in AI development.

Hyperscalers to Spend Over $500 Billion on AI in 2026: 3 Stocks to Buy

January 31, 2026, 11:56 AM EST. Industry research, including Goldman Sachs, projects AI hyperscalers will spend more than $500 billion on data-center infrastructure in 2026. The surge follows expanding capex at Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon and Meta as they accelerate data-center build-outs. The piece spotlights three beneficiaries, led by Nvidia, whose GPUs underpin training and inference and whose cash flow growth supports ongoing chip-architecture cycles such as Blackwell and Rubin backlog. It also highlights Broadcom for networking gear and its role in custom ASICs through partnerships with Apple, Alphabet and Meta. A third company is noted in the article but isn't named in the excerpt. Investors should weigh capex cycles, margins and backlog in assessing AI infrastructure bets.

Apple faces pricing challenge as AI-driven memory-chip shortage tightens iPhone supply

January 31, 2026, 11:54 AM EST. Apple posted blowout first-quarter results, led by all-time record iPhone sales that drove revenue to $143.8 billion, with the iPhone accounting for $85.3 billion. CEO Tim Cook warned that a global memory-chip shortage is spreading to the current quarter and beyond, and memory prices are expected to rise significantly. The company projects Q2 margins of 48%-49%, roughly flat versus the prior quarter. But supply limits for the advanced processors powering the iPhone 17 could curb volumes. Apple exited December with lean channel inventory and is now in a supply-chase mode to meet demand amid a broader AI push that strains the supply chain. The memory crunch stems from AI data centers drawing memory, leaving scarce supply for consumer devices.

Lenovo Idea Tab goes on sale at $170 with 11-inch 2.5K display and included stylus

January 31, 2026, 11:52 AM EST. Lenovo's Idea Tab is an affordable Android tablet aimed at both work and play. It features an 11-inch 2.5K display with a 90Hz refresh rate, powered by a MediaTek D6300 chip paired with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, expandable via microSD. The bundle includes a stylus and folio case. Running Android 15 and offering up to 20W fast charging, Lenovo says it should last most users a full day. The tablet is currently discounted to about $170.

ESA studies Falcon 9 breakup over Poland as Starship V3 targets mid-March launch

January 31, 2026, 11:44 AM EST. ESA has issued a tender to study the February 2025 uncontrolled reentry of a SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage over Poland, aiming to better predict risks in the very low-Earth orbit regime below 150 km. Four fragments survived; no injuries or property damage were reported, though one landed near a populated area. The agency says the data will help quantify reentry physics. Separately, SpaceX targets a mid-March Starship flight, its 12th overall but first with the longer Version 3 (V3), powered by the new Raptor 3 engine and able to lift 100+ tons to LEO. In a related thread, Robert Pearlman traced 2010s-era Remove Before Flight tags from the Challenger STS-51-L mission, seeking provenance for museums. Next launches: Jan 30, Feb 2, Feb 3.

Login feature lets subscribers save User ID and Password; logout clears saved data

January 31, 2026, 11:36 AM EST. Subscribers can opt to Save my User ID and Password in the login section, sparing them from typing credentials each time. The feature stores the User ID (the account name) and Password on the device used to access the site. A note explains that using the log-out feature will erase the saved data, requiring a fresh login on the next visit. The description emphasizes this is a local, device-based convenience, which could pose risks if the device is shared or unprotected. No other changes to the login process are described; the item focuses on a single, on-device storage option.

AMD eyes AI leadership in 2026 after 2025 stock surge

January 31, 2026, 11:30 AM EST. AMD delivered a standout 2025, with the stock rising about 77.3% and the chipmaker trading at around 132x trailing earnings and 102x forward earnings. Investors weigh AMD against Nvidia, but AMD's Instinct AI accelerators and data-center GPUs are filling demand as OpenAI and others scale. In the latest quarter, revenue rose 36% year over year to $9.2 billion, and adjusted EPS was $1.20, above the $1.16 consensus. Management guided fourth-quarter revenue of $9.6 billion, implying full-year revenue near $34 billion and about 31% growth. With a market cap around $411 billion, AMD remains a high-valuation play, contingent on continued AI demand and execution to sustain its momentum into 2026.

Citadel's Griffin buys Palantir and Robinhood stock as AI bets surge since 2023

January 31, 2026, 11:10 AM EST. Ken Griffin's Citadel Advisors disclosed third-quarter buys of 388,000 Palantir shares and 128,100 Robinhood shares. The wagers come as both names have surged since January 2023-Palantir about 2,200% and Robinhood roughly 1,100%. The stakes are modest, but the lesson is clear: high-flying stocks can still attract fresh investment when the growth narrative remains intact. Palantir sells analytics software through Gotham and Foundry and has an AI platform for integrating generative AI into enterprise applications. Analysts broadly view Palantir as a leader in enterprise AI, though the stock trades at about 96x sales, a premium that implies meaningful downside risk if the multiple normalizes. Management lifted full-year guidance on strong 2025 revenue growth; Robinhood remains focused on its younger user base.

SpaceX launches Starlink satellites from two coasts in two days

January 31, 2026, 11:06 AM EST. SpaceX fired two Falcon 9 rockets from opposite coasts on back-to-back days, adding more Starlink satellites to orbit. A Falcon 9 lifted from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base, deploying 25 satellites (Group 17-19) into low Earth orbit at 12:53 p.m. EDT. A second Falcon 9 lifted from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Space Launch Complex 40 at 2:22 a.m. EDT, delivering 29 satellites (Group 6-101). The booster involved in the California launch, B1082, finished its 19th flight and landed on a droneship in the Pacific; B1095 completed its fifth flight and landed in the Atlantic. Starlink totals exceed 9,600 satellites in orbit; the launches mark SpaceX's 13th this year and 596th Falcon 9 flight since 2010, per Jonathan McDowell.

Xiaomi's 17 Ultra Leica phone targets pros with continued large-sensor photography

January 31, 2026, 10:56 AM EST. As a professional photographer, the author previews Xiaomi's 17 Ultra, arguing it could be the best camera phone yet. Its edge rests on a large main sensor; the 14 Ultra used a 1-inch-type sensor delivering strong dynamic range and detail. The 15 Ultra kept the sensor but trimmed features such as a variable aperture, while offering a familiar camera grip and filter mount. Xiaomi has already unveiled the 17 Ultra in China, with expectations that UK and Europe launches will follow. Core specs, particularly the 1-inch sensor, ultrawide, and a 200 MP telephoto, appear preserved, though battery and regional differences may appear in global versions. Competition from Samsung and Apple remains fierce, but Xiaomi stresses pro-level control over photography rather than auto AI tricks.

Satellite images show nine Iskander launch sites near Ukraine border, including Crimea

January 31, 2026, 10:52 AM EST. Satellite imagery published Jan. 31 by the Strategic Aviation of Russia Telegram channel shows at least nine Iskander launch sites near the Ukraine border, including in occupied Crimea. The analysis identifies launch zones for both Iskander-M ballistic missiles and Iskander-K cruise missiles across Kursk, Bryansk and Rostov regions, plus sites inside the occupied Ukrainian territories. The channel describes sites near Shumakovo west of a former launcher base, Shchigry for Iskander-K, and Klintsy where radar units and command vehicles (PZM-2) point to a fully operational complex. Other positions near Novoselivske show multi-launch activity; Molykino hosts fortified shelters. Ukrainian drones previously targeted some locations, but current activity could not be independently verified. The report highlights potential escalation near Ukraine.

Huawei revives Watch GT Runner with DSM Firmenich tie-up, hints at running-focused smartwatch

January 31, 2026, 10:48 AM EST. Huawei is reviving the Watch GT Runner line, five years after its 2021 debut. The company has not announced a launch date or specifications, but confirmed the project and a tie-up with DSM Firmenich, a professional running team, to create a special wearable. Huawei previously retired the GT Runner and GT Cyber, with reasons undisclosed and speculation about a limited user base. CMO Alex Huang said the collaboration blends Huawei's wearables know-how with the team's performance expertise to deliver insights for runners of all levels. The new Runner is expected to include updated software, AI tools (AI running coach: digital guidance for pace and form), smarter tracking, and other enhancements. A debut date remains undisclosed.

Nvidia to participate in OpenAI round, but investment far smaller than $100 billion, Huang says

January 31, 2026, 10:36 AM EST. Jensen Huang said Nvidia will absolutely participate in the current funding round for OpenAI, but the investment will be nothing like $100 billion. He declined to specify a figure, adding it would probably be the largest investment Nvidia has ever made. Huang spoke to reporters in Taipei, saying the tie to the round is strong because it's a good investment. The parties announced a September letter of intent that could see as much as $100 billion funneled into new data centers and other AI infrastructure using Nvidia components, targeting about 10 gigawatts of computing power, roughly the peak electricity demand of New York City. Separately, Bloomberg reported Amazon is in talks to invest up to $50 billion in the round and expand its compute-power deal with OpenAI.

Xiaomi 17 leaks outline €1,099 Eurozone price and global rollout

January 31, 2026, 10:32 AM EST. Leaks place the Xiaomi 17's Eurozone price at €1,099 for 512 GB; a competing estimate suggests a €999 base model with half storage. Xiaomi is expected to offer three colours. The retailer outlines a global version with a 6,330 mAh battery and 100 W charging. This sits above the global predecessor's 5,240 mAh, but below China's 7,000 mAh version. Global sales may begin after MWC 2026 ends in March, with the Xiaomi 17 Ultra to follow. Information attributed to Ambhore's leak and Notebookcheck.

Survey shows rising skepticism of Generative AI among game developers

January 31, 2026, 10:26 AM EST. A GDC survey of more than 2,300 game developers shows rising use of Generative AI, but mounting concern about its impact. Adoption rose from 31% to 33% since 2021, yet the share saying it has a negative impact jumped from 18% to 52% – after sitting at 30% last year. Those who view the technology favorably have slipped from 13% to 7%. The report notes artists, designers and writers are most doubtful, while some managers use it more regularly. PC Gamer highlights stark comments, including that AI is "built on theft and plagiarism" and that some would quit rather than adopt it. The data underscore a tension between productivity aims and ethical, cultural costs in studios.

Rokid AI Glasses Style poses close challenge to Meta's Ray-Ban AI glasses

January 31, 2026, 10:16 AM EST. Rokid's AI Glasses Style, priced at $299, positions itself as one of the closest challengers to Meta's Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses. The review notes solid photo, video, and audio features, a decent look, and a few edge improvements in AI and voice assistant, but flags comfort issues. Rokid markets the glasses with a weight listed as 38g without lenses, yet real-world, including lenses, lands around 45g-about the lightest Ray-Ban stand-ins. The discrepancy undercuts trust and shows why weight labeling matters for long wear. Minor Bluetooth and calling bugs and no charging case dampen the experience. With competition from Google, Samsung, and perhaps Apple on the horizon, Meta must tighten price, fit, and software to stay ahead.

Apple Watch hypertension alerts: how to enable and what they mean

January 31, 2026, 10:06 AM EST. Apple's hypertension alerts flag long-term patterns that may indicate elevated blood pressure. The watch does not measure blood pressure directly; it analyzes 30 days of data-heart rate, movement and other Health app inputs-to identify trends tied to hypertension. If a trend is detected, users get a notification. The alerts are for people not diagnosed with hypertension and are not a medical diagnosis. Requirements: Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 or later paired with iPhone 11 or later, plus current watchOS and iOS. Users must be 22+, not pregnant, and not diagnosed with hypertension; Wrist Detection must be on. For meaningful results, wear the watch regularly (including during sleep if tracked) and keep age, sex, height and weight up to date in the Health app. Activation happens in the Health app on the iPhone, not on the watch, during setup.

Russia's mobile internet curbs strain daily life as war persists

January 31, 2026, 10:04 AM EST. Russians tolerate drone attacks and rising prices, but mobile internet outages on phones are becoming the new normal. Authorities say the disruptions prevent Ukrainian drones from navigating, but NBC News, independent experts and hard-line pro-war bloggers question the justification. Ukrainian drones keep hitting deep inside Russia, even reaching Kamchatka – about 4,350 miles from the border – while many cannot make calls, hail taxis or pay for groceries. A growing white list blocks sites during outages, constraining information. The crackdown on online speech widens, with bans on Instagram and Facebook, YouTube slowdowns, and tighter limits on messaging apps and VPNs. Some Russians have contemplated protests over internet freedom, though most remain cautious in speaking to foreign media.

xAI seeks award-winning writers to train Grok, Musk's AI chatbot

January 31, 2026, 10:00 AM EST. Elon Musk's artificial intelligence company, xAI, posted a job listing to hire fiction and screenwriters to train Grok, the company's AI chatbot. Pay ranges from $40 to $125 per hour across categories including medical writing, legal writing and journalism. The aim is to 'evaluate, refine and create elite-level writing' to advance Grok's capabilities. Grok has faced scrutiny for past missteps, including white-supremacist content about South Africa and praise for Hitler, and more recently for deepfake porn that led to bans in several countries. The posting sets high bars for applicants: fiction writers need verified publishing deals, sales thresholds or major awards; screenwriters require produced credits, streaming view counts, or nominations. The listing also references journalism and game-writing tracks under similar standards.

EV9 owner uses car as backup power during Colorado outage, highlights V2L capability

January 31, 2026, 9:48 AM EST. An EV9 owner in the r/KiaEV9 subreddit says their vehicle powered essentials during a multi-day outage in Colorado. The user used a vehicle-to-load, or V2L, adapter to draw power from the EV's battery, keeping a fridge, freezer and coffee maker running for about 30 hours after a power cut. They noted only 10% battery usage in that period. Other Kia EV9 owners in the same thread reported similar setups, linking either a V2L adapter or a simple extension cord to some home equipment. The posts illustrate a broader point: electric vehicles can serve as portable backup power during outages, reducing generator use and tailpipe emissions while offering lower maintenance. Consumers should plan carefully about battery limits and safety when feeding home circuits.

US and China strike different chords on AI-generated music

January 31, 2026, 9:46 AM EST. AI-generated music is expanding rapidly across platforms such as Suno and Udio in the US and Mureka in China. The Velvet Sundown, an AI-created band, shows how synthetic art can imitate real groups and spark confusion about authorship. Regulators in the US pursue a litigious path on copyright, with lawsuits shaping how AI music is trained and monetized. China follows a centralized, top-down approach with strict labeling and transparency mandates, while being comparatively lenient in training. Both countries confront core questions on creativity, control, and ethics as AI tools empower amateurs and fans to create and produce. The development could redefine how artists work and how listeners consume music for years to come, signaling a broader cultural and legal battle over AI-generated sound.

DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo discounted to $1,099 on Amazon

January 31, 2026, 9:36 AM EST. Amazon cuts the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo to $1,099, a $500 discount off the $1,599 list price. The 31% drop matches the model's record-low price previously seen on Amazon. The Fly More bundle typically includes three batteries plus a charging hub and extra accessories to extend flight time. Deal subject to change after publication.

Analysts explain Apple's iPhone 17 surge and whether it lasts

January 31, 2026, 9:30 AM EST. Apple posted a strong quarter, with iPhone revenue up 23% year over year to $85.3 billion and total revenue of $143.76 billion. CEO Tim Cook called the result simply staggering. Analysts say the gain reflects backlog from the pandemic era upgrades and updated pricing strategies, not just handset churn. About half of U.S. iPhone users hold devices for three years or longer, per CIRP, up from 24% five years ago. Wedbush's Dan Ives cites 315 million global users who hadn't upgraded in over four years. Apple trimmed older models and positioned the mid-range iPhone 17 as the default, while Pro and Pro Max devices accounted for roughly 52% of U.S. sales. Growth may hinge on AI features and sustained demand.

Foundation Models disrupt affective computing, fuel synthetic multimodal data and new evaluation challenges

January 31, 2026, 9:20 AM EST. Foundation Models have reshaped affective science by enabling synthetic, scalable study of emotion. The paper argues that Foundation Models democratise access to AI tools and accelerate work in Affective Computing by generating and analyzing multimodal affective data across vision, linguistics, and speech (acoustics). It traces the shift from handcrafted features and SVMs to data-driven representation learning, and notes that architecture search and RL can tailor models to affective tasks. A central aim is to raise awareness of evaluation problems – subjectivity in inner emotion versus perceived emotion, and the high cost of reliable labels. The authors caution that synthetic data and large models introduce validity and generalisation risks, calling for robust benchmarks and transparent reporting.

SpaceX seeks FCC approval for up to 1 million-satellite orbital data center constellation

January 31, 2026, 9:18 AM EST. SpaceX has asked the FCC for permission to build an orbital data-center constellation of up to one million satellites in low Earth orbit. The satellites would operate at 500-2,000 km, with 30-degree and sun-synchronous inclinations to maximize sunlight. SpaceX says the system would deliver transformative cost and energy efficiency and reduce the environmental footprint of terrestrial data centers. It frames the effort as a step toward a Kardashev Type II civilization – a hypothetical society that harnesses the sun's energy – to support AI-driven applications for billions and a multiplanetary future. The plan would dwarf prior proposals; China has proposed roughly 200,000 satellites, and Rwanda once pursued about 300,000. The filing provides few technical details, seeks a waiver of milestones, and envisions intersatellite optical links with Starlink relays and Ka-band backups for telemetry.

ICE's use of AI raises risk of missteps, critics say

January 31, 2026, 9:14 AM EST. An examination of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's use of AI and data analytics shows a web of contracts with firms such as Palantir and Clearview AI. Critics say targeting appears linked to political rhetoric and stereotypes, resulting in detentions that aren't always tied to arrests. NYU cybersecurity professor Damon McCoy notes the growing catalog of ICE contracts and what capabilities the agency may have or be building. Palantir's ELITE system aggregates data across agencies to map neighborhoods and identify deportation targets, while Clearview AI provides facial recognition software. The article stresses ICE's opacity about how tools are used and how information is synthesized, suggesting the AI network may contribute to wrongful detentions. Sources cited include the American Immigration Council.

Amazfit teases MicroLED rugged watch, pressing Garmin in display race

January 31, 2026, 9:08 AM EST. Amazfit is tipped to launch a rugged smartwatch with a MicroLED display, the T-Rex Ultra 2, potentially redefining its lineup. The device would join Garmin's Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED as a rare MicroLED option in the top end of the market. If true, the move could pressure Garmin by pairing rugged design with lower prices. MicroLED promises brighter images, higher efficiency and longer lifespan than OLED, boosting outdoor usability and battery life. Apple has delayed its own MicroLED plans for the Apple Watch Ultra, widening the field for rivals. No official comment from Amazfit yet; leaks suggest a shift if confirmed.

SpaceX seeks BEAD exemptions for LEO, warns of exit if changes not made

January 31, 2026, 8:54 AM EST. SpaceX has delivered a rider to state broadband offices outlining how it says BEAD rules should not apply to its LEO network. The letter, attributed to Senior Counsel Shea Boyd, would carve out exemptions and threatens to exit BEAD if changes aren't made. It argues that LEO capacity is dynamic and not reserved or left fallow, unlike terrestrial networks. SpaceX cites a real-time traffic mix of network activity, launch activity and sales levels as the basis for capacity, with QoS measurements and reporting as proof of performance. The rider covers payments, penalties, audits, and labor/insurance terms, as well as the program's low-cost option, arguing modifications are needed to reflect LEO deployment. The FCC approved adding 7,500 Gen2 Starlink satellites, lifting the network to about 15,000. Tennessee BEAD rounds show Starlink moving from round one to round two.

Samsung slashes Galaxy Tab S10 Lite to $280 as tablet deals tighten; Apple iPad deals slow

January 31, 2026, 8:52 AM EST. Samsung has cut the price of the Galaxy Tab S10 Lite to $280 on Amazon, a 20% drop from its $350 list price. The gray model ships with an S-Pen and no delivery charges. The 10.9-inch tablet pairs an Exynos 1380 processor with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, expandable to 256GB or up to 2TB with a microSD card. It features a bright display with Vision Booster, plus a responsive S-Pen for note-taking and drawing. Battery life is about 16 hours per charge, and Super Fast Charging refills in roughly 2 hours. The deal positions the Tab S10 Lite as a budget option for streaming and light multitasking, even as Apple iPad discounts appear to slow down.

Nvidia DLSS 4.5 turns 1440p PC into a 4K-capable rig overnight

January 31, 2026, 8:50 AM EST. A PC built around a 1440p display gets a new lease on life thanks to Nvidia's DLSS 4.5. A high-end gamer swaps 4K TV expectations for better image controls and flexibility, discovering that 4K-like output is achievable at 1440p. DLSS 4.5 reduces the traditional trade-offs of upscaling, letting players use Balanced or Performance modes with fewer image compromises. The change, which comes after years of avoiding internal resolution drops below about 70%, makes a three-year-old GPU feel closer to modern 4K capable rigs. In practice: better clarity, smoother frame pacing, and more experimentation without hardware upgrades.

A nice upgrade for Apple's simplest gadget

January 31, 2026, 8:46 AM EST. Apple's AirTags get a notable upgrade, with a louder speaker and small reliability boosts that make the tag more useful. In this week's Installer, David Pierce also highlights Yahoo Scout as his favorite AI search product, praising its breadth of links and cautioning users to verify results. The issue also features Crushable, described as Wordle meets Candy Crush, and OpenClaw, a device-control tool rebranded from Moltbot. Pierce muses about smartphones, weighing an upgrade to a Pixel 10 over continuing with an iPhone 16 and even hints at an iPhone 17. The column invites reader tips on non-big-tech devices and services.

Musk politics and FSD woes weigh on Tesla's European push

January 31, 2026, 8:42 AM EST. An industry analyst said Musk's political involvement arrived at a bad moment for Tesla, which needs fresh products to regain European momentum. The founder's emphasis on the next milestone-Full Self Driving-has yet to deliver a safe, scalable solution. Tesla has faced lawsuits worldwide over its marketing of autonomy, with families of crash victims, whose deaths occurred while FSD was engaged, filing wrongful-death suits. Regulators, including the U.S. road-safety agency, are examining dozens of reports that Teslas with FSD violated traffic rules. Musk's bold claims persisted. In an earnings call, he announced pausing production of two models to shift investments toward robotaxis and robots.

Apple to prioritize iPhone Fold over base iPhone 18, report says

January 31, 2026, 8:36 AM EST. Apple is reportedly prioritizing a foldable iPhone over the base iPhone 18 in 2026, per Nikkei Asia. The report says Apple will skip the traditional September three-model launch, instead releasing two Pro models and the iPhone Fold this year, with the base model delayed to early 2027. If true, the move would mark a sharp departure from Apple's usual cadence amid a memory shortage affecting the tech sector. Analysts warn timing and supply constraints could ripple through pricing, product strategy and consumer expectations.

Google's Auto Browse AI in Chrome tests raise questions on control and trust

January 31, 2026, 8:34 AM EST. Google is rolling Auto Browse to US subscribers of its AI Pro and AI Ultra plans in a limited launch. The feature lets the Gemini chatbot in Chrome's sidebar command an automated browser, starting with opt-in prompts rather than full control. In a hands-on test, the agent appeared to pantomime actions-opening and closing tabs-before actual clicking occurred only after refreshing the account and enabling a toggle labeled 'Let Chrome browse for you' in Settings. Google warns users that they are responsible for Gemini's actions and should take control if needed. The exercise underscores a broader aim to reshape the web around automated assistants, but early use remains messy and trust remains a hurdle.

PTC valuation tests Windchill AI Parts Rationalization as SaaS transition unfolds

January 31, 2026, 8:32 AM EST. PTC's stock remains under pressure after Windchill AI Parts Rationalization rolled out within its product lifecycle management suite. The AI feature targets duplicates, data issues and slow searches across manufacturing workflows. In recent trading, PTC trades around $156.13, with a narrative fair value pegged near $211.28, suggesting an intrinsic discount if the AI and SaaS transition gains momentum. On a 30-day basis, the stock fell 10.38%; over 90 days, it lost 21.36%; a 3-year total shareholder return sits at 19.59% in positive territory. Analysts cite the shift to SaaS and subscription models as a path to recurring revenue, but note risks from SaaS transition friction and potential ServiceMax churn that could undermine revenue visibility and renewals.

Apple buys Q.ai for about $2 billion, signaling new lip-reading wearables interface

January 31, 2026, 8:26 AM EST. Apple has acquired Israeli startup Q.ai for roughly $2 billion, a bet that signals a longer-term move into quieter, more natural lip-reading interfaces for wearables. The company reportedly can track tiny lip movements and facial cues with optical sensors, potentially turning silent mouth motions into input or speech for an AI assistant. Apple's track record with PrimeSense technology-now embedded in the TrueDepth camera array and features in Vision Pro-helps explain the strategic fit. Vision Pro already reads facial expressions but cannot translate lip motion to speech. The deal could expand Apple's wearable ambitions beyond glasses to earbuds and other devices, aided by reports that next-gen AirPods may include infrared cameras, weaving together AR, AI and everyday life.

NVIDIA plans H2 2026 debut for N1/N1X AI PC chip co-developed with MediaTek

January 31, 2026, 8:14 AM EST. NVIDIA chief executive Jensen Huang signaled that a consumer-focused AI PC system-on-chip, dubbed N1/N1X, is on track to debut in the second half of 2026. Speaking in Taiwan, Huang confirmed the chip is co-developed with MediaTek and targets edge AI workloads where power efficiency matters. The ARM-based SoC is expected to use TSMC's 3nm process and support Windows on ARM, with rumors pointing to a pared-down GB10 Superchip lineage to hit a lower thermal design power. A potential onboard RTX-like iGPU and broader ARM integration are among possibilities as NVIDIA aims to unify enterprise and consumer AI ecosystems. Market focus is likely to shift toward laptops and compact devices amid rising edge AI demand.

Blackstone executive outlines five questions CEOs should ask about AI use

January 31, 2026, 8:12 AM EST. A Blackstone executive shares five questions CEOs should ask about their AI use, in an article highlighted by Business Insider. The guidance aims to sharpen governance and align AI initiatives with strategy. Key questions focus on how to implement risk controls, ensure robust data governance and privacy, define measurable ROI, and maintain transparency in model decisions. Leaders are urged to establish clear accountability, vet vendors, and consider ethical implications. The article targets boards and executives navigating rapid AI deployment, stressing practical steps to avoid runaway costs while amplifying business value.

Developers say AI coding tools work, but concern grows over hype and impact

January 31, 2026, 8:02 AM EST. Software developers say AI coding tools such as Claude Code and Codex can handle hours of work-writing code, running tests, and, with supervision, fixing bugs. OpenAI says Codex now helps build Codex itself, and the company has published technical details about its inner workings. In interviews with developers on Bluesky, responses show broad agreement that the technology works but diverging views on its broader impact. Some remain skeptical of marketing hype, arguing LLMs are revolutionary but not magical. Others acknowledge a true step-change, noting a potential 10x speed boost on complex tasks, such as building a Rust backend with Terraform deployment and a Svelte frontend, aided by recent updates like Claude Opus 4.5. The discussions capture both excitement and caution about this shift.

Mac Mini deal trims price to $549 at Amazon, Mashable reports

January 31, 2026, 8:00 AM EST. Clawdbot users are snapping up the Mac Mini, with Amazon listing the M4 model at $549, down from the normal $599. Mashable notes the deal is part of ongoing promotions and can change after publication. The package pairs a compact desktop with on-device AI features and an always-on setup. The story underscores growing interest in versatile machines that serve as hubs for AI assistants and smart home workflows. Price is time-sensitive; buyers should act quickly as discounts on the M4 Mac Mini have historically varied by retailer and stock.

Garmin Enduro 3 review: longest-lasting sport watch gets price cut

January 31, 2026, 7:58 AM EST. Garmin's Enduro 3 doubles down on stamina while trimming price. The 51mm watch weighs 57 grams and uses a plastic resin case with a titanium bezel, keeping it lighter than expected for such a large model. It lacks a mic, speaker and AMOLED screen, sticking with a transflective display optimized for outdoor glare. The Enduro 3 launched with the Fenix 8 in August 2024 and costs $899/£769, down from the previous generation's $1,099/£929. It's cheaper than the Fenix 8's 51mm version, appealing to veteran Garmin fans despite its size. For heavy runners and hikers, the long battery life remains a key draw, with minor concessions in polish and form factor.

China approves Nvidia H200 imports, signaling policy shift and growth risk

January 31, 2026, 7:54 AM EST. China has granted approval for imports of Nvidia's H200 AI chips, marking a policy shift after tighter controls on advanced semiconductors. The move affects Nvidia (NasdaqGM:NVDA) and its ability to serve Chinese demand for high-performance hardware. With H200 clearance, investors watch how access interacts with export controls and broader U.S.-China tech relations. The decision comes as AI infrastructure spending remains a focus for cloud providers and enterprise buyers. For Nvidia, Chinese approval expands data-center opportunities but heightens exposure to a dual regulatory regime in the U.S. and China. It underscores policy risk, including potential limits on quantities or chip specs under future rules. Rivals like AMD and Intel remain a backdrop to Nvidia's data-center dominance.

Workers use 'friction-maxxing' to slow AI adoption in the workplace

January 31, 2026, 7:42 AM EST. Unions and frontline workers are deploying 'friction-maxxing' to slow corporate AI rollouts. They push for human-in-the-loop oversight, mandatory audits of AI decisions, data-access controls, and stepwise approvals before AI can modify workflows. Proponents say the tactics curb risky automation, protect jobs, and ensure accountability in sensitive tasks. Critics argue the friction slows innovation and raises costs, potentially delaying productivity gains. Employers say governance and collaboration can balance speed with safeguards, weaving employee input into deployment plans. The debate centers on governance, transparency, and retraining-whether workers should have a say in when and how AI substitutes human judgment. The outcomes may shape bargaining rounds as firms seek faster automation with built-in safeguards.

Vietnam's Kim Long Motor, BYD Battery launch $135 million Hue EV battery plant

January 31, 2026, 7:40 AM EST. Kim Long Motor Hue JSC and BYD Battery began construction of a $135 million EV battery plant in Hue, Vietnam, with a two-phase plan. The first phase covers 4.4 hectares and targets 3 GWh per year; the second expands to 10 hectares and raises capacity to 6 GWh annually. Kim Long Motor will own and run the plant while BYD provides technology transfer and support. The project aims to lift the local battery localization to more than 80% by Q2 2026 and to forge a regional hub for EV and battery manufacture. The move follows Kim Long Motor's broader ties with Chinese automakers, including agreements with Dongfeng Dana Axle and Changan Auto to develop axles and passenger cars in Hue.

Apple may skip iPhone Air 2 in 2026, push iPhone 18 to 2027, Nikkei Asia says

January 31, 2026, 7:28 AM EST. Apple is unlikely to launch a second-generation iPhone Air in 2026, according to a Nikkei Asia report. The publication says Apple has at least five new iPhone models in the pipeline, including a revamped iPhone Air, a standard new iPhone, and three premium models. Air shipments are not expected this year or in 2026, and Apple may skip the iPhone 18 in 2026, pushing its debut to 2027. The report cites a marketing strategy shift and a global memory crunch as reasons, with a priority on premium launches and a planned foldable iPhone for the second half of 2026. Supply-chain constraints and memory-price pressures are affecting production, not only for Apple but for rivals like Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo and Transsion.

Nvidia H-1B data shows US base pay ranges; Huang says he reviews compensation cycles

January 31, 2026, 7:26 AM EST. Newly available H-1B filings show base pay ranges for Nvidia's U.S. workers, offering insight into pay for software engineers, researchers and product managers. Nvidia, with about 36,000 employees, has seen stock-driven wealth rise for long-time contributors. The data from the U.S. Labor Department, reported by Business Insider, exclude equity and bonuses. In fiscal 2025 Nvidia had about 1,900 certified H-1B applications. Salary ranges span roughly $92,000 to $425,500 for roles such as Software Engineer, ASIC Engineer, Hardware Engineer and Architecture Manager. CEO Jensen Huang has said he personally reviews compensation up to the end of each cycle, a stance that aligns with his claim of creating more billionaires on his management team than any other CEO. Some workers note earlier hires benefited more from equity appreciation.

Huawei HarmonyOS 6.0 rolls out globally to Watch GT 5 Pro and FreeBuds Pro 4

January 31, 2026, 7:24 AM EST. Huawei has started global rollout of HarmonyOS 6.0 to two flagship devices: the Watch GT 5 Pro and FreeBuds Pro 4. The Watch GT 5 Pro uses version 6.0.0.23; FreeBuds Pro 4 uses 6.0.0.272. Users should maintain 3-4 GB free space on the wearable. The update brings UI changes, gradient themes, fluid animations, and the new Modules 2025 Clock Face. New features include Tap-to-Wake, adjustable alarm vibration, and the ability to transfer music from iPhone to the watch with Huawei Health 16.0.8.305+. App optimizations include more accessible contacts, renamed call log to 'Phone', and enhanced headphone controls when paired with Huawei headphones. The update also enhances workout features moving some items to More screen. The rollout follows a previous upgrade to Watch FIT 4 Pro.

Moltbot: an open-source AI agent that runs locally on your computer

January 31, 2026, 7:20 AM EST. Moltbot is an open-source AI agent that runs locally on a device, installing software, making calls and steering your digital life. It's not a new model; Moltbot gives an existing AI model a set of hands to execute commands and manipulate files. The system runs on a host like a Mac mini kept on 24/7 and lets users name the assistant, set a personality and vibe, and choose a brain (Anthropic's Claude or OpenAI's ChatGPT). It can connect to WhatsApp and Telegram, transcribe voice memos, and push audio updates about ongoing coding projects. Moltbot's design emphasizes memory of prior work and preferences, enabling tasks to proceed without typing. The setup illustrates how local automation may redefine what a "digital assistant" can do.

NVIDIA GeForce driver update patches multiple high-severity flaws, deemed must-install

January 31, 2026, 7:10 AM EST. NVIDIA on Tuesday released GPU driver v591.59 for Windows, delivering a batch of security updates described in the company's Security Bulletin as addressing several high-severity flaws. The fixes cover GeForce, GeForce RTX, Quadro, NVS and Tesla products, and could allow attackers to achieve code execution, escalate privileges, tamper with data, trigger denial of service, or disclose information. NVIDIA lists affected driver versions and recommends upgrading to the safe versions to mitigate the risks. An older v582.28 update addressed issues on Maxwell, Pascal and Volta lines, which are no longer supported by Game Ready Drivers; users of those GPUs may need to install the security update manually. NVIDIA notes the patches apply across multiple Windows builds.

Could ASML be the next AI stock to join the trillion-dollar club?

January 31, 2026, 7:04 AM EST. ASML Holding sits as the largest tech stock outside the $1 trillion club, with a market cap around $550 billion. Its photolithography machines, including extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV), are essential to making advanced AI chips. The company has posted strong, double-digit growth and gross margins above 50%, anchoring a dominant position in the AI supply chain. Morgan Stanley recently upgraded its outlook after upbeat chip results, suggesting ASML could rise about 70% and approach a $935 billion valuation if AI demand stays robust. While not guaranteed, the catalysts imply it could join the trillion-dollar club in time. For investors, the stock trades around 50x trailing earnings, offering a long-term view on AI-driven growth.

UK broadband provider G.Network enters administration after rats chew through fiber

January 31, 2026, 6:54 AM EST. UK broadband provider G.Network, focused on London, has entered administration after a potential deal collapsed over rats chewing through its fiber. The Telegraph reported the company was about £300 million in debt and had around 25,000 paying subscribers. Community Fibre considered a bid but pulled back after finding extensive rodent damage. Some biodegradable cable jackets use soy- or corn-based materials, which can attract rodents. Graeme Oxby of Community Fibre told The Telegraph that rodents like ducts and fibers. Most lines run under roads, complicating repairs and causing traffic disruption. The firm is owned by FitzWalter Capital. With the assets in play, the future of G.Network remains unclear as lenders reassess risk.

Nvidia's Earth-2 AI models slash forecast times and compute costs in weather prediction

January 31, 2026, 6:40 AM EST. Nvidia unveiled its Earth-2 open AI models, a family designed to speed weather forecasting and cut computing costs. The lineup-CorrDiff, FourCastNet3, Medium Range, Nowcasting, Global Data Assimilation, and the PhysicsNeMo framework-fuses satellite, radar and station data to produce continuous atmospheric estimates. Generative AI accelerates every stage, from data processing to storm predictions. Nvidia says CorrDiff can downscale coarse forecasts to high resolution up to 500x faster than traditional methods; FourCastNet3 adds accuracy for wind, temperature and humidity at up to 60x speed. Global Data Assimilation produces initial conditions in seconds on GPUs, enabling faster pipeline integration. Open-source access on Hugging Face and GitHub lets researchers and firms fine-tune forecasts. Early users include the Israel Meteorological Service and energy firms like TotalEnergies, Eni, and GCL.

Amazon layoffs highlight industry-wide shift as AI era reshapes corporate priorities

January 31, 2026, 6:38 AM EST. Amazon's plan to cut 16,000 roles has reduced its corporate staff by about 9%. The second wave since October signals broader tech industry churn as firms shift resources to data, automation and analytics. While Amazon says AI isn't the primary driver, executives call it transformative and push for fewer layers to speed decision-making. Analysts note that retraining a workforce built for logistics or legacy retail is difficult, and Amazon says it will keep hiring in other areas. The episode echoes historic reshaping at IBM, which cut about 50,000 jobs in 1993 as it moved from mainframes to services and software. Such episodes, driven by new technology, repeatedly prompt corporate restructuring and tighter cost controls.

Elon Musk says FSD subscription price to rise as Tesla signals Autopilot changes

January 31, 2026, 6:26 AM EST. Tesla said to raise the monthly price of the FSD software subscription after feedback from customers. Elon Musk publicly noted the move as the company expands its rollout of features tied to FSD. A separate wave of reporting has sparked questions about Autopilot, with rivals and critics asking whether Tesla will scale back or retire the legacy driver-assistance system. Tesla did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the Autopilot claim. Analysts say higher FSD charges could push adoption toward the newer, software-only bundle while leaving the core Autopilot suite in place for existing customers.

Google dismantles IPIDEA residential proxy network, freeing millions of devices

January 31, 2026, 6:22 AM EST. Google says it has crippled IPIDEA, a massive residential proxy network that secretly turned millions of devices into tools for cybercrime. IPIDEA hid attacks behind real home connections, making malicious traffic harder to detect than data-center proxies. Embedded in hundreds of apps and SDKs-such as PacketSDK, EarnSDK, HexSDK, and CastarSDK-the code recruited devices into an exit pool for others. In one week, more than 550 tracked threat groups used the proxies for credential stuffing, espionage, DDoS, and command-and-control operations. Google spokesman described "decisive action," taking down dozens of IPIDEA domains, updating Google Play Protect to remove affected apps, and sharing intel with partners like Lumen's Black Lotus Labs and Cloudflare. The result: hijacked devices dropped by millions, including about nine million Android devices. Some components remain, but disruption raises the bar for future abuse.

ESA backs Draco reentry mission to study how satellites burn up

January 31, 2026, 6:20 AM EST. The European Space Agency has greenlit the Draco mission, a purpose-built capsule designed to reenter Earth's atmosphere with sensors and cameras to log heat, pressure and material breakup. Draco will carry about 200 sensors and four cameras to record conditions as it plunges through thicker air, measuring temperatures, structural strain and the surrounding plume. The 40-centimeter-diameter capsule, weighing 150-200 kilograms, is slated for 2027 and will be destroyed over a remote ocean about 12 hours after orbital release. It will transmit data to a geostationary satellite during a roughly 20-minute telemetry window. The mission underpins ESA's design for demise program to validate reentry models and curb debris by 2030.

FujiFilm Instax Mini Link+ review: pricey upgrade with sharper prints and Design Print mode

January 31, 2026, 6:12 AM EST. FujiFilm's Instax Mini Link+ costs $169.95 and is the latest upgrade to the Mini Link line. In testing, the device delivers stronger contrast, color, and sharpness versus the Mini Link 3, revealing more detail across a range of photos. The highlight is Design Print mode, exclusive to the Mini Link+, aimed at crisper text and illustrations, though improvements for text-heavy images were limited. Prints use Instax Mini film, about $30 for 20 sheets (roughly $1.50 per photo). The workflow requires importing from the iPhone library into the Instax Mini Link app, selecting Simple or Design mode, and waiting roughly 20 seconds per print. The app adds VR framing and a remote shutter, but quick, straightforward prints remain the core goal.

Three hard truths for IonQ, Rigetti, D-Wave and QCI in 2026

January 31, 2026, 6:10 AM EST. Investors piling into quantum stocks in 2025 saw meteoric gains, but a Reuters-style briefing flags three unpleasant truths for 2026. First, quantum computers remain years away from cost-effective, practical problem-solving, even as they promise breakthroughs in AI training, weather modeling, and drug development. The Quantum Insider pegs potential value at around $1 trillion globally by 2035, though that outlook is speculative. Second, for pure-play quantum firms, dilution is the default funding path as they chase revenue. Even so, IonQ, Rigetti, D-Wave, and Quantum Computing Inc. have secured early customers through Amazon and Microsoft cloud access, underscoring a nascent, enterprise-facing market. Analysts warn upside may be punctured by slower-than-expected adoption and multiple hurdles on the road to mainstream use.

Google disrupts IPIDEA residential proxy networks fueled by malware

January 31, 2026, 6:08 AM EST. Google's Threat Intelligence Group, working with industry partners, cut off IPIDEA's domains and exposed infected device management and proxy routing. The action followed disclosure of IPIDEA's SDKs, which distributed its proxying tool. IPIDEA billed itself as a VPN that encrypts traffic and hides real IPs and claimed 6.7 million users. Residential proxies route traffic through compromised home and small-business devices, typically infected via trojanized apps. In court, Google said actors use residential proxies for account takeovers, fake accounts, credential theft and data exfiltration, complicating detection. GTIG logged more than 550 distinct threat groups using IPIDEA exit nodes in one week, including actors from China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea. IPIDEA supported DDoS botnets and brute-forcing; 19 businesses sold access to devices compromised with BadBox 2.0 malware, via Android and Windows trojans.

Datadog and Workiva ride AI momentum ahead of February earnings

January 31, 2026, 6:06 AM EST. Datadog (DDOG) and Workiva (WK) are not pure-play AI stocks, but they have embedded AI into their legacy platforms and have attracted new customers. They will report Q4 2025 results in February-Datadog on Feb. 10 and Workiva on Feb. 19. Datadog has integrated an AI assistant called Bits AI into its cloud observability suite and launched LLM Observability and OpenAI Monitoring to help customers manage costs and performance of large language models, while monitoring for drift. About 32,000 customers as of 9/30/2025, with AI users numbering over 5,000 and AI revenue representing 12% of $881 million in the quarter, up from 6% a year earlier. The stock is down roughly 31% from its 52-week high; investors will seek AI-driven growth signals in the results.

Meta Platforms Emerges as Top AI Stock in 2026, Seven Catalysts Underpin the Bet

January 31, 2026, 5:54 AM EST. Meta Platforms is positioned as a premier AI stock in 2026, driven by gains across ads, productivity and new devices. In Q4, Meta's ad revenue rose 24% year over year to $58.1 billion as it refined its GEM ad-ranking model and doubled training GPUs, delivering about 3.5% more Facebook ad clicks and over 1% higher Instagram conversions. The company says agentic coding has boosted output per engineer by 30% since early 2025, with power users rising 80% year over year, a trend CFO Susan Li says should accelerate through the second half of 2026. Smart glasses sales more than tripled in 2025, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg linking the shift to a smartphones-like adoption curve. Meta is also pursuing personal superintelligence, promising a big year for AI that understands users' history and relationships.

Starlink drives SpaceX toward a 2026 IPO

January 31, 2026, 5:52 AM EST. Starlink is the growth engine for SpaceX, potentially driving a 2026 IPO. Private data put 2024 revenue at about $13.1 billion, rising to $15 billion in 2025 and an estimated $23.8 billion in 2026, per Payload Space. Starlink accounts for about 69% of 2025 revenue and is forecast to reach roughly 79% of SpaceX's total in 2026, with an 80% leap to $18.7 billion. By contrast, the rocket-launch business is growing in the low single digits. The shift toward satellite internet matches SpaceX's long-planned path: a high-margin Starlink core funding a more commoditized launch unit. Even as the company has discussed an IPO in 2026, the trend suggests Starlink could be the true value creator.

UiPath and Alphabet Drive the Picks-and-Shovels of the Agentic AI Revolution

January 31, 2026, 5:50 AM EST. The agentic AI market could surge nearly tenfold by 2030, with enterprise adoption accelerating as firms move from pilots to deployments. Grand View Research pegs the global enterprise agentic AI market at $2.6 billion in 2024 and more than $24 billion by 2030. Two incumbents sit at the core: UiPath, a leader in orchestration that blends agents and data and is expanding its Maestro automation toolkit, and Alphabet, which runs the Gemini foundation powering models, chips and data centers. UiPath recently turned profitable in the latest quarter, posting $13 million operating income after a year-ago loss, and trades at roughly five times revenue. Alphabet's Gemini platform handles billions of tokens per minute with broad adoption across industries.

Google disrupts IPIDEA, a major residential proxy network used by criminals

January 31, 2026, 5:44 AM EST. Google's Threat Intelligence Group says it significantly degraded IPIDEA, a residential proxy network used by threat actors to route traffic through home devices. In January 2026, GTIG observed more than 550 threat groups using IPIDEA exit nodes during a seven-day period. Operators reportedly paid app developers to embed proxy SDKs, enrolling devices in the network when users downloaded apps. IPIDEA marketed as monetizing spare bandwidth, but researchers warn it enables concealment and can turn devices into launchpads for other attacks. The disruption reduced IPIDEA's available devices by millions across smartphones, Windows PCs and other hardware, with the US, Canada and Europe as the most desirable pools. Some operators also enrolled devices into botnets such as BadBox 2.0, Aisuru and Kimwolf. GTIG worked with Spur, Black Lotus Labs, and Cloudflare; a full takedown was not claimed, but effects ripple through affiliated operators.

AI can make workers better-then worse, warns innovation theorist

January 31, 2026, 5:34 AM EST. An innovation theorist warns that artificial intelligence can lift worker performance in the near term, but may degrade job quality or widen gaps over time. Gains depend on how AI is deployed, with risk of surveillance-driven workloads and uneven skill upgrades. Firms face a choice between quick automation wins and durable upskilling, reskilling, and fair governance. Policy makers are urged to set guardrails and invest in training and transparency so workers gain from technology rather than become collateral damage. The warning arrives as businesses press for efficiency, while researchers stress that sustainable gains hinge on people, process, and accountability-not technology alone.

NASA selects Axiom Space for fifth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station

January 31, 2026, 5:06 AM EST. NASA awarded Axiom Space its fifth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, targeting no earlier than January 2027 from Kennedy Space Center. The mission, Axiom Mission 5, will last up to 14 days and involves four proposed crew members submitted for NASA and international partner review. NASA will provide crew consumables, cargo delivery, storage, and other in-orbit resources; Axiom will supply mission services, including the capability to return cold-stored scientific samples. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said the award shows commercial space is a present reality and will sharpen competition in low Earth orbit as NASA builds toward Artemis missions to the Moon and Mars. Dana Weigel of NASA praised the ISS as a proving ground for new markets and tech. The agency is finalizing the sixth private astronaut mission order.

Honor Power 2 tops 2025-26 signal test, edging iPhone 17 Pro in early 2026 readings

January 31, 2026, 4:32 AM EST. In early 2026, a Weibo tipster ran a three-tier network signal test comparing 2025 and 2026 smartphones. Power 2 led the results under TRP (Total Radiated Power) and TIS (Total Isotropic Sensitivity) criteria, which measure transmitting efficiency and receiving capability, respectively. In the first tier for enhanced signal strength, Power 2 ranked highest alongside Vivo X300 Pro and Redmi K90 Pro Max. The second tier included flagship models such as OPPO Find X9 Pro, iQOO 15, Xiaomi 17 Ultra, Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, and Huawei Mate 80 Pro Max. The third tier covered standard signal devices, dominated by Apple handsets like iPhone 16e and iPhone 17 Pro. Proponents say Power 2 achieves this with a six-wing antenna design and an RF-based body framework, improving weak-network performance.

Thiel shifts AI bets: dumps Nvidia, buys Microsoft and Apple

January 31, 2026, 4:30 AM EST. Peter Thiel's fund activity highlights a shift in his AI bet. New 13F disclosures show Thiel Macro unloaded all Nvidia stock-previously a core AI play-and opened positions in two tech stalwarts. He acquired 49,000 shares of Microsoft and 79,181 shares of Apple, now constituting about 34% and 27% of his portfolio, respectively. Thiel Macro oversees more than $74 million in 13F securities. Analysts note Nvidia's role as a leading GPU supplier in the AI surge, with revenue topping $130 billion last year, but Thiel tilts toward broader software and platform bets as AI growth remains uncertain. The trade marks a rotation away from a single AI hardware leader toward diversified tech exposure, even as Nvidia's stock has delivered explosive returns over five years.

PACT's Thermo Shield Drives BCIT EV Battery Safety Education

January 31, 2026, 4:24 AM EST. Packaging And Crating Technologies (PACT) partners with the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) to weave its Thermo Shield line into BCIT's automotive curriculum, expanding lithium battery safety training as Canada's west coast shifts toward EVs. BC's 2024 EV share reached 23% of new registrations, and roughly 153,000 EVs already roam the highways, fueling demand for skilled technicians. BCIT Automotive Technologist Instructor Jim Berladyn says the program meets new service and repair safety needs as EVs proliferate. Thermo Shield relies on a paper wrap with proprietary ink that releases a moisture barrier during thermal runaway, cooling contents and restricting oxygen to halt fires-at temperatures near 1,500°F. It has independent third-party endorsements and is a DoD-recognized product.

Moft Trackable MagSafe Wallet Stand adds Find My tracking to ultra-slim back-pocket setup

January 31, 2026, 4:22 AM EST. Moft unveils the Trackable Snap-on Phone Stand & Wallet, its thinnest design at 0.25 inches and the size of a credit card. The MagSafe-compatible accessory snaps onto iPhones, holds up to two cards, and folds into three viewing modes for reading, video, and calls. It quietly adds Apple Find My support, so the item appears in the same app as AirPods and trackers. A location alert can trigger a 70 dB sound, and the tracker runs about six months on a wireless charge, with battery level shown. Magnets deliver about 15N of snap force for steadiness. Weighing 62 g, it's MagSafe-ready and wrapped in MOVAS vegan leather. Available in four colors that pair with Moft Snap Case.

Apple to acquire Israeli startup Q.ai in secret over $1.5 billion deal, eyeing silent-speech tech

January 31, 2026, 4:20 AM EST. Apple is buying Q.ai, a three-year-old, ~100-employee startup in Ramat Gan, in a deal estimated at more than $1.5 billion. The company has kept its product largely secret. On its site, Q.ai speaks of a quiet revolution; LinkedIn hints at high bandwidth, privacy, multilingualism and new input modes. According to leaked reports, the technology could let devices understand whispered speech and even translate facial micro-movements into words or commands, using an optical method that avoids attached sensors. The acquisition could boost Apple's AI assistants, Siri, and wearables such as the Apple Watch and Vision Pro. The field is known as silent speech interfaces (SSI); most approaches rely on electromyography (EMG), but Q.ai is thought to use vision-based sensing. MIT's AlterEgo is a notable precursor.

SpaceX eyes up to 1 million satellites for orbital data-center push

January 31, 2026, 4:18 AM EST. SpaceX says in an FCC filing that it could deploy up to 1 million satellites in orbits from 500 kilometers to 2,000 kilometers high as part of a push to build orbital data-center capabilities. The filing outlines the scale of the constellation but does not specify a timetable or cost. The plan marks a shift from consumer broadband aims toward in-space data processing and storage. SpaceX has not provided public comments on the filing, and regulators would need to evaluate such a vast, multi-decade orbital project for spectrum, debris, and space-traffic implications.

NVIDIA Dynamo Planner adds SLO-driven autoscaling for multi-node LLM inference on AKS

January 31, 2026, 4:16 AM EST. Microsoft and NVIDIA deliver Part 2 of their AKS-based Dynamo collaboration. The update introduces the Dynamo Planner Profiler and the SLO-based Dynamo Planner to tackle rate matching in disaggregated serving. The profiler automates a pre-deployment sweep using a DGDR manifest to test tensor parallelism in prefill and decode stages, finding configurations that maximize Goodput within latency targets. An AI Configurator mode can simulate performance in ~20-30 seconds before allocating GPUs. In production, the SLO-based Dynamo Planner orchestrates resources in real time, monitoring cache load and prefill queue depth to meet SLAs. A weather-disruption airline scenario uses Qwen3-32B-FP8 with 500 ms Time to First Token and 30 ms Inter-Token Latency, scaling during spikes.

Nvidia stock could hit $352 by Dec 2026 as AI boom expands from data centers to robotaxis

January 31, 2026, 4:14 AM EST. Nvidia's bull case hinges on a full-stack AI strategy and leading data-center GPUs. Evercore's Mark Lipacis pegs a price of $352 by December 2026, about 83% upside from around $191 today, as Nvidia captures more AI infrastructure spending. The company combines GPUs with CPUs, networking gear, rack-scale systems and a robust software ecosystem, building a moat that supports lower total cost of ownership versus rivals. Nvidia commands ~85% share in AI accelerators and could benefit as the autonomous-vehicle and robotaxi wave expands. The bear case from Seaport's Jay Goldberg argues rising demand for custom AI chips may erode Nvidia's share, with a target of $140, about 27% down. The stock trades around $191, with a market cap near $4.6 trillion.

Three reasons to buy Apple stock – and one reason to think twice

January 31, 2026, 3:56 AM EST. Apple exceeded Wall Street estimates for fiscal Q1 2026, but shares dipped in early trading. Three positives for bulls: Greater China sales jumped 38% YoY, with Tim Cook noting an all-time high in iPhone upgrades and a double-digit share of customers switching from competitors; World Panel data show iPhone in the urban China top three, while iPad tops tablets and MacBook Air leads in laptops in December. In India, double-digit growth and record iPhone sales mark progress in a market Apple calls modest despite a huge opportunity; new stores expand footprint, with a Mumbai opening imminent. On AI, Apple Intelligence and Siri capabilities signal seriousness about generative AI. A muted initial stock reaction offers a potential cue for skeptics. Bottom line: Asia momentum underpins the bull case, even as the market remains cautious.

ZIEA One debuts AI desktop calendar to curb smartphone distractions

January 31, 2026, 3:50 AM EST. ZIEA unveils the One, an AI-powered desktop calendar that aims to cut smartphone distractions by moving planning off a phone onto a dedicated device. The system uses a unified life view that syncs Google, Apple, and Outlook calendars into a single display, showing meetings, commitments and family events at a glance. A physical Focus button activates a deep-work mode that silences the paired phone and blocks notifications, reinforcing active concentration. The device doubles as a 160-watt charging hub with multiple ports. It features voice commands to translate broad goals into calendar blocks, and, via GPT-5, analyzes workloads, suggests wellness breaks, and does not require a separate subscription. Tasks can be checked off within the calendar, turning it into a living to-do list. ZIEA describes the product as a sanctuary for focus.

Investing $100 in Nvidia five years ago would be worth about $1,479 today

January 31, 2026, 3:46 AM EST. Nvidia has shifted from gaming to an AI- and data center-driven growth engine. Investors who endured volatility were rewarded. The stock jumped 125% in 2021, then tumbled 66% from late 2021 to late 2022, before rallying on AI demand. Today, the data center unit dominates revenue and fueled a quarterly print north of $51 billion, with guidance of about $65 billion for Q4-roughly 65% higher year over year. A $100 investment five years ago would be about $1,479 today, a 1,380% gain. Some analysts remain cautious about lofty valuations despite the upside. The Motley Fool Stock Advisor recently spotlighted other names; Nvidia was not among its top picks.

Tesla robotaxi crash rate nearly 9x higher than humans despite safety monitor, data show

January 31, 2026, 3:42 AM EST. New NHTSA crash data, paired with Tesla's disclosure of robotaxi mileage, shows Tesla's Austin fleet is crashing at a rate far higher than human drivers, even with a safety monitor in every car. The Standing General Order reports nine crashes involving robotaxis from July to November 2025, including right-turn collisions, a cyclist collision, and a backing rear-end at low speed. Tesla says the fleet has logged about 500,000 autonomous miles as of November 2025, yielding approximately one crash every 55,000 miles. By contrast, U.S. drivers average about one police-reported crash every 500,000 miles; including non-police incidents, humans are closer to 200,000 miles per crash, still better than Tesla's figure. Tesla's transparency is limited: NHTSA narratives are redacted, unlike Waymo and others, which publish fuller incident summaries.

SpaceX weighs $1.5 trillion IPO timed to Musk's birthday and planetary alignment

January 31, 2026, 3:32 AM EST. The Financial Times reports SpaceX is weighing an IPO valuing the rocket maker at about $1.5 trillion and eyeing a mid-June listing to align with a planetary alignment and Elon Musk's birthday. The plan seeks roughly $50 billion in fresh capital, up from earlier talk of an $800 billion valuation on a $25 billion raise. Lead underwriters discussed include Bank of America, JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. CFO Bret Johnsen has held talks with private investors since December about a mid-2026 float. If realized, the listing would eclipse Aramco's 2019 IPO in scale, though at a higher valuation. Market activity in 2025-26 has reinforced space-tech appeal amid renewed U.S. listings, boosted by Starlink and Musk's stakes.

Apple iOS 26.3 Beta 3 adds privacy control to limit precise location data from carriers

January 31, 2026, 3:14 AM EST. Apple released iOS 26.3 Beta 3, outlining further privacy enhancements, bug fixes and usability tweaks. The standout is Limit Precise Location from Cell Networks, which lets users restrict sharing of exact location with mobile carriers while keeping emergency location sharing intact. The feature is regional and carrier-dependent, available in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and Thailand, and only on devices with Apple's C1 chip such as the iPhone Air, iPhone 16e, and iPad Pro M5. The update also fixes a rotation-lock bug that reoriented videos in landscape mode, a relief for video-heavy use. Development is in late stages, with at least one more beta before a potential release candidate, targeting a mid-February 2026 public release.

Apple posts record iPhone quarter as iPhone revenue tops $85.3 billion

January 31, 2026, 3:00 AM EST. Apple delivered a record iPhone quarter, with iPhone revenue above $85.3 billion in Q1 2026, and overall revenue of $143.8 billion, up 16% year over year. iPhone sales rose 23% YoY as demand outpaced supply for the iPhone 17, which features an always-on display and higher refresh rate. Supply is constrained by advanced process nodes, while services revenue rose 14% and Mac and wearables declined. Apple plans AI-powered Siri upgrades, partnered with Google Gemini, and is acquiring Q.ai for $2 billion. Rumors of a broader Siri AI chatbot and an AI search tool persist, reflecting a broader push into AI across devices.

Apple Q4 2025: $143.8B revenue, 2.5B devices; Samsung bets on One UI to lock in ecosystem

January 31, 2026, 2:58 AM EST. Apple disclosed Q4 2025 earnings: revenue of $143.8 billion, up 16% year over year, with the installed base topping 2.5 billion devices. The company highlighted all-time records in iPhone demand and a Services revenue high, underscoring how a vast user base monetizes through App Store, iCloud, Music, TV+, payments, and accessories. Samsung, meanwhile, positions One UI as a retention tool across phones, tablets, wearables and TVs, aiming to tighten ecosystem lock-in and push foldables and AR glasses toward mainstream adoption. Samsung cites its manufacturing heft and Android base as strengths, while signaling a shift to faster execution on new categories and a future emphasis on AR glasses and related platforms. The two paths illuminate how a growing installed base reshapes strategy.

Rancho Cordova students demo AI bots for city services and energy savings

January 31, 2026, 2:26 AM EST. Rancho Cordova high school students showcased artificial intelligence (AI) projects with real-world use. The effort pairs youth coders with city and utility clients to build AI tools. The City of Rancho Cordova sponsors the work to help position the area as an AI hub. Mayor Garrett Gatewood calls the students "computer engineers of the future," saying the program fuses jobs, education and readiness. Among the outputs is an online AI portal for the city to handle customer service and track inquiries, including why residents call and what they want. The Sacramento Municipal Utility District signed on to demo a student-built chat agent that can teach customers how to save energy. The council previously approved $5 million to seed an AI and robotic economy; funds are now backing this education program.

Can we regain balance as smartphones reshape our behavior?

January 31, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. BJ Fogg's Persuasive Technology forecast a future where a device can suggest, reward, and steer behavior. Apple's iPhone then accelerated that shift. A writer tests the claim, citing an average daily phone use of over four hours and Ofcom data on children's access to mobile devices and social media. In academia, Haidt and Twenge link smartphones to anxiety and polarization, while Etchells and Orben argue the evidence is thin. The author notes personal costs: less reading, diminished concentration, and rising anger, driven by constant connection. Efforts to live on a nearly app-free dumb phone failed because maps, tickets and transport apps are deeply embedded. The piece closes by asking whether society can reclaim balance amid persistent digital persuasion.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold opens for pre-order with bundle discounts

January 31, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. Samsung has opened pre-orders for the Galaxy Z TriFold, the company's first triple-foldable smartphone. The 10-inch display unfolds from a pocketable device and the model goes on sale for pre-orders at 10:00 a.m. ET. Bundle options include Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, Galaxy Watch 8 series, or the companion keyboard at discounted rates. Early reports note some site readiness issues during launch, with checkout occasionally accessible. The device carries a $2,899 list price and features include a titanium hinge, Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 on display, and IP48 water and dust resistance. Samsung frames it as a shift from premium smartphone to portable workspace, folding inward for portability and durability. The TriFold aims to expand foldables toward mainstream use, though pre-order incentives are modest compared with some rivals.

Garmin Venu 3S gets $100 off, promises up to 10-day battery

January 31, 2026, 2:00 AM EST. Garmin's Venu 3S is on sale at Amazon, with the 41mm model priced at $349.99, down from $449.99. Garmin says it can last up to 10 days on typical use, and includes 8 GB of storage, built-in GPS, and a 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen. The watch works with Android and iOS devices and has a speaker and microphone for calls, plus streams from Spotify and Amazon Music when near Bluetooth or Wi-Fi; note there is no LTE. It targets beginners and athletes with easy navigation, workouts, and a Body Battery energy monitor, and a Sleep Coach, but lacks dedicated trail-run features. Battery life varies by settings and usage.

Five Best Music Apps for Apple CarPlay

January 31, 2026, 1:58 AM EST. Apple CarPlay surfaces music and audio apps at the wheel. This review weighs five options, balancing existing subscriptions with ease of use. Spotify leads in market share, with a dedicated Now Playing screen and Siri-powered search, but scrolling long Recently Played lists can feel clunky. A Premium subscription improves listening quality, and some users report workarounds via phone settings. The piece also highlights a dedicated radio app and an option to access your own streaming server from CarPlay. The aim is to pick a primary streaming player, a radio choice, and a server-friendly option to keep tunes flowing on the road.

SAP stock slides on weaker cloud outlook as AI competition tests investor patience

January 31, 2026, 1:56 AM EST. SAP's stock slid after results that showed higher revenue and net income year over year, but weaker cloud backlog growth and a 2026 cloud revenue outlook below some expectations raised investor concerns about AI-driven competition in enterprise software. The shares closed at €170.56, with a 13.8% fall on the day and sharper losses over the past week and month. Year-to-date and one-year performance are negative, while three- and five-year returns are still positive. Guidance for €25.8-€26.2 billion in 2026 cloud revenue implies a 23-25% rise, but some see it as insufficient against rivals such as Oracle, Microsoft and ServiceNow. The move tests optimistic narratives on SAP's AI-powered ERP and long-term core ERP relevance.

ECARX Unveils Zenith AI Cockpit Computing Platform on Snapdragon Ride Flex

January 31, 2026, 1:40 AM EST. ECARX unveiled the Zenith computing platform in Munich on Jan. 30, built on Qualcomm's Snapdragon Ride Flex SA8797P. The system targets AI central computing for cockpits and driving, boasting about 560K DMIPS CPU power, 8.1 TFLOPS GPU performance, and 640 TOPS of sparse NPU. Running on the Cloudpeak cross-domain software platform, it's designed with a modular design and open middleware to enable heterogeneous computing and automotive-grade safety for cockpits and ADAS, plus support for generative AI and end-to-end driving functions via Vision-Language-Action (VLA) models. The ecosystem supports Flyme Auto, Google Automotive Services (GAS), and AAOS, offering OEMs a global cockpit-and-driving solution. Production is planned for 2027 after verification. CEO Shen Ziyu called it a cornerstone for next-gen experiences.

Poll: Will you buy Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream for Switch?

January 31, 2026, 1:14 AM EST. Nintendo's next big Switch release, Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream, is launching 16 April 2026. A Direct showcased features including Mii customization, island customization and the Palette House. The game carries a price tag of £49.99 / €59.99 / $59.99 and comes with image-sharing restrictions. The poll, 2,439 votes, shows mixed sentiment: 'I've already pre-ordered!' 6%; 'Day one' 18%; 'As soon as possible' 12%; 'Maybe, I'm still thinking about it…' 11%; 'I need to know more about it…' 2%; 'I'm not so sure…' 5%; 'Waiting or saving for something else' 2%; 'I'll stick with the previous entry' 0.7%; 'No, I'm not interested' 43%; 'Something else' 0.6%. For a recap of the Direct, readers can check our guide.

Nvidia stock price target: $650-$815 by 2030 based on forward earnings

January 31, 2026, 1:12 AM EST. Nvidia's earnings trajectory underpins a bullish 2030-2031 target. The company posted about $213.4 billion in revenue for the just-completed year. Assuming a 37.5% revenue CAGR through 2031, revenue could reach roughly $1.4 trillion, with gross margins near 73% and adjusted operating expenses rising about 7% quarter over quarter. At a 15% tax rate, consensus models imply more than $792 billion in adjusted earnings by 2031, or about $32.50 a share with 24.3 billion shares outstanding. Applying a 20-25x forward multiple yields a price range around $650 to $815 by 2030. This hinges on AI demand, CUDA/software growth, and Nvidia's leadership in GPUs and networking.

VGT Could Miss Major AI Players Because It Excludes Alphabet, Amazon and Meta

January 31, 2026, 1:10 AM EST. The Vanguard Information Technology ETF (VGT) has tracked the MSCI US IMI Information Technology 25/50 index and holds about 320 names, but the top 10 account for nearly 59% and roughly 45% of assets go to Nvidia, Apple and Microsoft. The ETF is heavily concentrated in those three giants, limiting breadth for AI exposure. It also misses Alphabet, Amazon and Meta, which are classified outside the information technology sector by MSCI and S&P Dow Jones indices, meaning they don't appear in VGT's holdings. Without Alphabet and Amazon in a portfolio tied to AI, cloud providers that train and run models aren't fully represented, which may reduce long-term AI access for investors.

NASA's Perseverance completes first AI-planned drives on Mars

January 31, 2026, 1:02 AM EST. NASA's Perseverance rover completed the first drives on another world planned by AI. Conducted on Dec. 8 and 10 from JPL's Rover Operations Center, the demonstration used generative models to propose waypoints that guide the rover through Jezero Crater's rim. The AI relied on the same imagery and terrain data human planners use, and collaboration with Anthropic's Claude AI was used to test the approach. NASA officials said the tests illustrate progress in autonomous navigation, potentially boosting science return as Earth-Martian distance creates long communication delays. Real-time control remains impractical due to roughly 140 million miles of light-lag; human drivers still sketch routes, but AI planning could accelerate exploration and reduce risk.

DJI Dock 3 Winter Safety Guide for Autonomous Operations

January 31, 2026, 12:42 AM EST. DJI Dock 3 is an automated, all-weather drone-in-a-box for 24×7 remote operations. Paired with the Matrice 4D/4TD, it runs autonomous inspections, emergency response, perimeter monitoring and asset surveillance without on-site pilots, with takeoff, landing, charging and cloud mission control managed remotely. For winter, DJI lays out practical steps to boost flight stability, battery reliability and mission success. Monitor weather on every flight and avoid strong winds, heavy snowfall or dense fog; enable Prevent Flight Using Weather Forecast Data to ground flights when forecasted conditions exceed limits. Inspect propellers for icing risk: the hydrophobic coating helps below 5°C, but sunlight can crack it; replace cracked props and after 450 flights. Increase RTH reserves to offset cold battery losses and higher return power draw.

Tesla pivots from auto stock toward autonomy, robotics and energy AI

January 31, 2026, 12:28 AM EST. Tesla is steering away from a pure auto maker toward a platform built on autonomy, robotics, and energy storage. The debate over whether Tesla is an auto stock appears settled in sentiment if not in metrics. Despite about 87% of 2025 revenue from vehicles, the company outlined plans to pause the high-end S/X and invest about $20 billion in Physical AI, robotics, and autonomy initiatives. Analysts describe a fundamental pivot toward robotaxi and the humanoid Optimus project, plus transportation-as-a-service. SpaceX merger chatter and xAI links feed investor optimism and risk. The market cap around $1.56 trillion towers over GM and Ford, underscoring the view that Tesla's core may be software and systems-not wheels-in the long run.

Anthropic engineer says he hasn't written code in more than two months as AI handles most coding

January 31, 2026, 12:20 AM EST. Anthropic engineer Boris Cherny says he hasn't written code in more than two months, with Claude Code and Opus 4.5 writing all his work. In a post on X, he said 100% of his code is AI-generated, echoed by others at Anthropic. CEO Dario Amodei noted at Davos that some engineers rely on AI to generate code. A separate OpenAI researcher, known as Roon, also claims he no longer writes code. Industry observers say AI tooling is reshaping software development, though company-wide AI-generated code is reported between 70% and 90% at Anthropic, and about 90% for Claude Code itself. Public figures at Microsoft and Salesforce cite around 30% AI-generated code; a Science study found about 29% of GitHub Python functions are AI-written in the U.S.

Aronofsky's AI-generated Revolutionary War series debuts two episodes amid pushback

January 31, 2026, 12:04 AM EST. Darren Aronofsky released the first two episodes of his AI-generated Revolutionary War series, On This Day… 1776, on Time's YouTube channel. The project blends AI visuals with voices from Screen Actors Guild performers, produced by Primordial Soup with Google/DeepMind tools, and aims to drop episodes on the 250th anniversaries of the events. The first episode is set for Jan. 1, 1776, the second for Jan. 10, 1776, with a trailer also released. Ben Bitonti of Time Studios framed the venture as a glimpse of what AI-driven storytelling can enable without replacing craft. Aronofsky has argued for harnessing AI as tools, while critics online fault the approach for poor acting, lip-syncing, pacing and IP concerns about AI stealing sources.

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