Super Bowl 2026 TV deals: best sales this week on OLEDs and smart TVs ahead of kickoff
February 3, 2026, 4:26 AM EST. Retailers push Super Bowl-season discounts on TVs, spanning budget sets to premium displays. With CES 2026 introductions pending, many shoppers will see deeper discounts on 2025 models. Deals under $500 cover 32- to 75-inch 4K sets, including the Hisense 32-inch A4, Roku 24-inch, TCL 40-inch S3, Roku 55-inch, and a 75-inch TCL S5 Mini LED at about $480. OLED options remain pricier but reachable, for example Sony 55-inch Bravia XR8B at $998 and Samsung 65-inch S95F at $2,298; larger 77-inch Sony A95L at $3,498. Midrange picks in the $500-$1,000 band include TCL 65-inch T7 and QM8K Mini LED. Peripherals and streaming deals round out the home theater setup.
Barnsley named UK's first 'tech town' as Microsoft, Google, Cisco and Adobe join AI push
February 3, 2026, 4:24 AM EST. Barnsley has rebranded again, this time as Britain's first tech town, part of Labour's AI drive. The government says the South Yorkshire city will test AI across local services, with four US tech companies – Microsoft, Google, Cisco and Adobe – helping to apply AI in schools, hospitals, GPs and business. The council says the area, home to about 250,000 people, adopted AI faster than many peers, using assistants in adult social care and children's services, and even scanning potholes with digitised bin lorries. Evri, which runs a major hub there, is trialling robot dogs for deliveries. Some local voices warn the rebranding could feel a leap, underscoring unease about AI. Officials cite free AI training for residents, support for firms, and pilots to boost pupil results and teacher workloads, while questions linger about the companies' role and funding.
SpaceX IPO poised as 'largest wealth-creation event' says Sequoia partner with $800B valuation
February 3, 2026, 4:18 AM EST. Sequoia Capital partner Shaun Maguire predicts SpaceX's forthcoming IPO will be the healthiest wealth-creation event in history, arguing the company is worth about $800 billion, up from $36 billion in 2019. Maguire, who has backed five Musk ventures, says the market underestimates Musk's value. He cites SpaceX's expansion beyond rockets to Starlink, a laser-based vacuum network with more than 9,000 satellites delivering fast intercontinental links, and D2D (direct-to-cell) satellite tech that could upend fixed broadband by 2028. With Starship moving to mass production in 2026, SpaceX could use excess launch capacity to power AI-focused space data centers, unlocking a trillion-dollar space computing market. Maguire frames the IPO as the largest wealth-creation movement in history.
Apple stops signing iOS 26.2, blocking downgrade to older builds
February 3, 2026, 4:14 AM EST. Apple has stopped signing iOS 26.2, blocking downgrades after the release of iOS 26.2.1. The change, spotted by MacRumors, means users on 26.2.1 cannot revert to 26.2 or any earlier build. The company's latest release notes for 26.2.1 mention AirTag (2nd generation) support and bug fixes, with no public CVEs listed. In addition, Apple has stopped signing several earlier iOS versions following newer rollouts: iOS 12.5.7, iOS 15.8.5, iOS 16.7.12 and iOS 18.7.3, after updates 12.5.8, 15.8.6, 16.7.14 and 18.7.4 were released. The policy is typical when security fixes or stability are deemed ready. Downgrading becomes impractical for most users, as security gaps from older versions remain unpatchable on signed devices.
DJI Lito rumors point to a lightweight drone for 2026, anchored by FCC filings
February 3, 2026, 4:12 AM EST. DJI's next drone, nicknamed Lito, appears in regulatory paperwork rather than glossy promos. An FCC filing lists a model called Lito X1, but provides few technical details and no launch timeline. The public story hinges on speculation, optimism and a single image described as a drone leg, sparking debate over whether the device is a true lightweight quadcopter or a kitchen appliance with propellers. DJI has offered no press release, trailer or official specs to confirm the project. The FCC listing is the only official breadcrumb, shared by industry watchers as a sign that a small, portable drone could arrive in 2026. If real, the Lito would compete in a growing market for compact, easy-to-fly drones.
Adobe Firefly to offer unlimited image and video generations for eligible subscribers ahead of March 16 cutoff
February 3, 2026, 4:08 AM EST. Adobe will remove generation limits on Firefly for subscribers, delivering unlimited image and video generations across Adobe's models and third-party integrations. The change applies only to the standalone Firefly subscription, not Creative Cloud, and requires signing up before March 16. Eligible plans include Firefly Pro, Premium, and higher-credit tiers (4,000; 7,000; 50,000). Generations are capped at 2K resolution in the Firefly app and via Firefly Boards and the Firefly video editor. Supported models span Google's Nano Banana Pro, GPT Image Generation, Runway Gen-4, plus Adobe's commercially safe image and video models. Adobe says the move aims to keep creators in flow as AI usage grows and prompts length continues to rise.
Quantum Computing Inc. completes Luminar Semiconductor acquisition to build domestic photonics and quantum platform
February 3, 2026, 4:00 AM EST.Quantum Computing Inc. (Nasdaq: QUBT) completed an all-cash acquisition of Luminar Semiconductor (LSI), a subsidiary of Luminar Technologies, for $110 million. The deal advances QCi's plan to become a vertically integrated domestic provider of photonics and quantum platforms. CEO Yuping Huang says LSI's lasers, detectors, and packaging, combined with QCi's thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) photonics, will enable chip-scale quantum hardware operating at room temperature and a full photonics signal chain from light generation to processing. LSI will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary, preserving aerospace, defense and industrial customer relationships and providing near-term revenue visibility. The transaction supports U.S.-based manufacturing and reshoring, positioning QCi to pursue government and national-security opportunities and scale manufacturing.
Experts warn AI chatbots aren't your friends ahead of safety summit
February 3, 2026, 3:58 AM EST. AI chatbot worries as their sycophantic zeal to please users may distort judgment. Bengio said the AI tries to make users feel good in the moment, which isn't always in their interest. He urged new regulations, but rejected rules aimed at AI companions, advocating horizontal legislation addressing multiple risks. The International AI Safety report lands ahead of the Feb. 16 global summit in India, outlining risks from AI-fueled cyberattacks, deepfake porn, and guidance on bioweapons design. Bengio called for stronger AI expertise in governments and the European Commission. The summit follows the 2023 mandate, with advisers such as Marietje Schaake.
SpaceX to acquire xAI in merger valued above $1 trillion, uniting AI and space tech
February 3, 2026, 3:56 AM EST. SpaceX announced it is acquiring xAI in a merger designed to create a vertically integrated engine for AI, rockets, space-based internet and direct-to-mobile communications. The deal would unify Musk's aerospace and AI ventures around the Grok chatbot and the X social platform, expanding the reach of his tech empire as SpaceX eyes a public listing later this year. SpaceX has been valued around $800 billion in a December investor note; xAI has been valued at about $230 billion after a $20 billion Series E round. The companies say space-based datacenters will be key to scaling AI at scale, arguing terrestrial solutions alone cannot meet demand. The announcement follows cross-holdings among Musk's ventures and market chatter about a potential deal.
Artemis II Wet Dress Rehearsal: Closeout Crew Departs Launch Complex 39B
February 3, 2026, 3:48 AM EST. NASA's Artemis II closeout crew has completed its tasks and departed Launch Complex 39B during the wet dress rehearsal. The exit marks a shift to the final countdown and a cleared pad for simulated liftoff. Artemis II astronauts did not participate in today's activities, but the closeout crew's work validates launch-day protocols and confirms Orion and the SLS are configured for flight readiness. With the pad secured, teams will continue monitoring fueling operations and prepare for the terminal count, the final ten minutes of the countdown. A single terminal countdown will be conducted. A 24/7 live stream of the rocket at the pad remains online, along with a separate feed to capture wet dress activities.
EU backs €50 million push to industrialise superconducting quantum tech via Supreme consortium
February 3, 2026, 3:36 AM EST. The Supreme consortium, formed in 2025 to industrialise superconducting quantum technologies, has secured €50 million from the EU Chips Joint Undertaking and national funders to cover its first 3.5 years, starting early 2026. It will push scalable fabrication processes for qubits and offer process design kits and piloting services, including shared fabrication runs, to help firms build their own systems. External users are expected to access technologies in 2027, according to coordinator Pekka Pursula of VTT. The project aims to strengthen Europe's quantum ecosystem and support the Quantum Act and Chips Act to broaden the continent's semiconductor footprint. Supreme unites 23 partners across eight member states, from Delft University and CEA to Infineon, Alice & Bob and Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech.
Nvidia shares slide as OpenAI investment talks stall, questions over $100 billion plan
February 3, 2026, 3:24 AM EST. Nvidia shares fell in early trading Monday after reports that its plan to invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI may be stalled. The stock was down about 1% as of mid-morning, amid questions over whether the deal remains binding. Nvidia had announced in September a package to build at least 10 gigawatts of computing capacity for OpenAI and to invest up to $100 billion. CEO Jensen Huang has said the investment was nonbinding and not finalized, while criticizing OpenAI's business strategy and warning of competition from players such as Alphabet's Google and Anthropic. Huang later said he remains committed and that the investment will be substantial, but not exceed $100 billion. Analysts noted possible concerns about circular financing and the lack of a clear, fixed amount.
Three bets for Nvidia in 2026: revenue beat, margins and GPU dominance
February 3, 2026, 3:22 AM EST. An industry observer predicts Nvidia could beat consensus revenue for fiscal 2027, with estimates around $323.3 billion, as hyperscalers bundle GPUs, CPUs and networking into rack-scale solutions and demand for Blackwell and Rubin systems remains robust. The forecast relies on continued pricing power and over $500 billion revenue visibility from the Blackwell pipeline through 2026, as data centers shift from training to real-time inference workloads. The analyst also expects Nvidia to sustain gross margins near 75%, driven by high-margin data-center GPUs, networking products and growing software and services. Nvidia is seen keeping a dominant GPU market share in the low 90s, despite intensifying competition, supported by the Vera Rubin system launches in H2 2026.
De Tomaso unveils 900-HP V12 for P900 hypercar, revs to 12,300 rpm
February 3, 2026, 3:20 AM EST. De Tomaso unveiled the 6.2-liter V12 for its P900 hypercar. The engine is rated at 900 horsepower on synthetic fuel and revs to 12,300 rpm. Weighing about 485 pounds (220 kg), it's billed as the lightest V12 ever developed. Development took four years, with a complex carbon-fiber intake and heat-reflective tape highlighted by the company. The P900 weighs roughly 1,984 pounds (900 kg) and pairs with an Xtrac sequential gearbox to drive the rear axle, aiming at a near 1:1 power-to-weight ratio. Production is slated for soon, with a price tag of at least $3 million. The move underscores a niche push as mass-market automakers downsize toward V8 hybrids, yet De Tomaso bets on dramatic engineering to stand out.
NVIDIA's Huang: AI-era roles can pay over €7,000 a month without a university degree
February 3, 2026, 3:16 AM EST. NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang says the AI infrastructure surge could push monthly pay above €7,000 for hands-on roles that don't require a university degree. He points to a growing slate of technical, practical jobs in data centers and chip fabs where skills, certifications and on-the-job training matter more than diplomas. Roles include electricians for data centers and fabs, plumbers and HVAC technicians for advanced cooling, construction supervisors and steelworkers, and network cablers and data center technicians. U.S. demand is acute: McKinsey estimates shortages by 2030 of about 130,000 electricians, 240,000 construction workers, and 150,000 site supervisors. Huang frames this as a shift toward verifiable competencies, with apprenticeships and self-directed study accelerating progress.
Columbia researchers fuse optical tweezers and metasurfaces to scale quantum arrays toward 100,000 qubits
February 3, 2026, 3:12 AM EST. Columbia University researchers Sebastian Will and Nanfang Yu say their approach could push neutral-atom quantum computers beyond the current ~1,000-qubit ceiling. They combine optical tweezers-tight laser traps-with a metasurface to create hundreds of thousands of trapping sites. In tests, the team trapped 1,000 strontium atoms, and showed the method could scale to well over 100,000 atoms. Atoms serve as qubits because they are intrinsically identical and support superposition and entanglement, easing control at scale. Unlike setups using SLMs or AODs to pattern light, the metasurface approach could enable arbitrary geometries more easily. The work outlines a path to quantum processors with many more qubits, a prerequisite to surpass classical machines.
Author examines how people form real bonds with AI companions
February 3, 2026, 2:50 AM EST. Technology writer Muldoon argues that modern AI persists longer and remembers more, fueling genuine emotional attachments even as users know the system is just software. In interviews for his book, Lily formed a romantic bond with an AI named Colin, who remembered her life details, affirmed her and even urged a ring, helping prompt a divorce from her twenty-year marriage. Many interviewees report feeling emotionally connected while acknowledging the system's limits. Muldoon distinguishes sentiment from sentience, noting that the relationships hinge on language models trained on vast data rather than true consciousness. The phenomenon echoes ELIZA-era attachments but is amplified by current platforms that remember, initiate and respond, reshaping what people call a social relationship.
Artemis II wet dress rehearsal: launch abort system hatch closed
February 3, 2026, 2:46 AM EST. NASA teams completed closing the launch abort system hatch for the Artemis II Orion crew module during the wet dress rehearsal, sealing access through the outer aeroshell for ascent. The hatch integrity ensures the abort system can deploy if needed. With the hatch secured, the closeout crew validated mechanical seals, verified environmental conditions, and performed leak checks as countdown milestones progressed toward the next flight steps. The team prepared to depart the pad after closing out. The rehearsal entered a T-10 minute hold at 8:50 p.m. EST; originally the plan called for a second terminal countdown, but Artemis Launch Director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson limited the run to one terminal count. A 24/7 live stream from the pad remains online, including a dedicated feed for wet dress activities.
Nothing CMF Watch 3 Pro smartwatch on sale for $44.99 at Woot
February 3, 2026, 2:40 AM EST. Nothing's CMF Watch 3 Pro is on sale at Woot for $44.99 as of Feb. 2, a discount of about $54 and around 55% off its $99 list price. The deal is described as the lowest price seen to date for the smartwatch, which Mashable has described as near-perfect. Deal pricing can change after publication. The offer highlights Nothing's push into affordable wearables amid a crowded market, with stock and regional availability varying.
Apple issues legacy macOS and watchOS updates to keep iMessage and FaceTime working on older devices
February 3, 2026, 2:38 AM EST. Apple released macOS 11.7.11, watchOS 10.6.2 and watchOS 9.6.4 for older Macs and Apple Watches that can't run the latest systems. The updates refresh the activation and messaging certificates used by iMessage and FaceTime, ensuring these services work after January 2027. On Macs, install via Settings; on Apple Watches, via the Watch app on iPhone. watchOS 9.6.4 is the final release supporting devices like the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X (restricted to iOS 16), while watchOS 10.6.2 supports Series 4, Series 5 and the original SE. Apple also released macOS Catalina Security Update 2026-001 and watchOS 6.3.1 for even older hardware.
Starlink's 2-Month Rule Explained: What Travelers Need to Know
February 3, 2026, 2:36 AM EST. Starlink, SpaceX's satellite internet service, offers Residential for home use and Roam for in-motion connectivity across 150 countries. A key caveat is the two-month rule: users may travel internationally for up to 60 days at a time; longer stays require updating the registered address or transferring the account. Roam plans include a $50/month 100 GB option and a $165 unlimited plan. Upfront kit costs differ: Roam mini kit is $199 for low-power use, while the standard Roam kit is $349 and designed for all-weather speeds. Both kits enable international use, but longer stays trigger address changes to avoid service restrictions. The rule matters to frequent travelers and RV users who rely on consistent access while abroad.
Amazon February iPad sale hits $299 on 11-inch model, up to $500 off across lineup
February 3, 2026, 2:34 AM EST. Amazon's February iPad sale cuts prices across Apple's tablet lineup, with deals starting at $299. The 11-inch iPad is available for $299.99, reflecting a $50 discount on blue and pink colors. The $299 price applies to the 128GB Wi-Fi model; discounts also apply to 256GB and 512GB variants. Additional markdowns cover the M3 iPad Air and M5 iPad Pro, plus up to $500 off closeout M4 iPad Pro models. Apple Pencil accessories are discounted as well, with savings up to 26%. The retailer and price guide offer ongoing coverage of the best iPad deals throughout the week.
SpaceX says Chinese satellites among top collision risks to Starlink, cites 148,696 avoidance maneuvers
February 3, 2026, 2:28 AM EST. SpaceX disclosed in an FCC filing that a small number of Chinese satellites and space debris forced its Starlink constellation to perform a large number of collision avoidance maneuvers last year. The maneuvers, which consume fuel and shorten satellite lifespans, occurred between June 1 and November 30. In total, Starlink satellites carried out 148,696 avoidance actions in that period. Among the top 20 space objects Starlink had to adjust for, seven were Chinese and accounted for 3,732 maneuvers. The filing highlights safety challenges cited by rivals of the megaconstellation, as both sides press for greater tracking and deconfliction. SpaceX did not name specific satellites, but the data show how traffic from Chinese satellites and debris can raise collision risk for large LEO fleets.
Artemis II Wet Dress Rehearsal marks milestone toward crewed lunar flyby
February 3, 2026, 2:26 AM EST.Artemis IIWet Dress Rehearsal is a key milestone on NASA's path to a crewed lunar flyby, NASASpaceFlight reports. The test run fuels and defuels the Space Launch System and Orion crew vehicle, rehearses countdowns, and validates ground operations on the mobile launcher-without an actual launch. A successful WDR clears teams to proceed toward a real launch attempt and checks emergency procedures, interfaces, and communication links. Artemis II, NASA's second crewed lunar mission, would carry a four-person crew on a lunar flyby to test deep-space systems ahead of future landings. Officials say results from the rehearsal will inform timing and readiness for the next phase, with launch date targets subject to review.
King Slide, Nan Juen listed in Nvidia server rail supply chain; Fositek in promising position
February 3, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. King Slide Works benefited in 2025 from strong demand for high-end GPU/ASIC platforms, placing its server business at the forefront of growth. Server rails account for about 90% of its revenue, tying the company to Nvidia's data-center cadence. The listing in Nvidia's server-rail supply chain signals a close tie to Nvidia's roadmap. Nan Juen also appears in the same chain, signaling broader exposure for local suppliers. Fositek is described as being in a promising position within the ecosystem, reflecting a shift toward components that underpin modular server deployments. The moves illustrate how Nvidia's supply-chain footprint can lift suppliers as demand for GPUs and accelerators rebounds.
SoftBank unit Saimemory, Intel to co-develop next-gen AI memory tech (ZAM)
February 3, 2026, 2:20 AM EST. Saimemory, SoftBank's memory unit, teams with Intel to push a next-generation memory program called Z-Angle Memory (ZAM) for AI and high-performance computing. Prototypes are planned for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2028, with commercialization targeted for fiscal 2029. The collaboration draws on Intel's work under the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Memory Technology program to boost DRAM performance and power efficiency, aiding AI workloads. Intel Fellow Joshua Fryman says the team has developed a new memory architecture and assembly approach that reduces power use and costs, enabling broader adoption over the next decade. The effort comes as AI memory demand climbs and supply strains persist, with energy efficiency a central focus.
How Catacomb 3D propelled id Software from Commander Keen to Wolfenstein 3D
February 3, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. Retrospective footage shows how Catacomb 3D nudged id Software away from Commander Keen toward Wolfenstein 3D. The team earned about $5,000 (about $11,750 in December 2025 dollars) under a Softdisk Gamer's Edge contract, far less than Keen's revenue at the time, fueling doubts about leaving Keen. A turning moment came when Catacomb 3D revealed a behind-the-wall pop-out, an effect that hooked Carmack and convinced the team to pivot. Romero recalls scrapping two weeks of work on Keen 7 to chase the new tech. By dawn, the crew embraced a first-person shooter that would redefine the genre. In short, the shift-from a conservative Keen path to immersive 3D action-spawned Wolfenstein 3D and the studio's enduring legacy, per the collaborators.
Google leaks first look at Android for PC in Aluminium OS test build
February 3, 2026, 2:14 AM EST. Google's bug tracker and screen recordings offer a first look at Aluminium OS, a ChromeOS/Android hybrid for PCs. A Google Issue Tracker entry, later restricted, includes two recordings from an HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook and notes ALOS as the project acronym, with references to Android 16 and a build that matches the leak. The footage, surfaced by 9to5Google and shared on YouTube by Android Authority, shows a taskbar similar to ChromeOS with a centered start button, a top status bar leaning Android-style, and access to the Play Store plus basic split-screen multitasking. Google has not released an official video; to date, Sameer Samat has said more is coming later this year.
Your Router Settings Could Be Slowing Internet – Here's What to Change
February 3, 2026, 2:10 AM EST. Slow internet often comes from router settings rather than a dead-end upgrade. Start by confirming the speeds you pay for versus your router's maximum throughput. The actual link speed is limited by the lower of those two figures. If performance falls short, adjust settings instead of buying a new device. Access the router through its IP address, a manufacturer app, or the QR code on the device. Check the firmware version and enable automatic updates. Consider switching from the 2.4GHz band to 5GHz or 6GHz, or selecting a specific channel to reduce interference. If offered, enable QoS to prioritize devices, such as a gaming console. Finally, reposition the router for a central, open location to improve coverage.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra global pricing, 6,000 mAh battery leak stirs expectations
February 3, 2026, 1:58 AM EST. New leaks claim the Xiaomi 17 Ultra's global version will ship with a 6,000 mAh battery, about 11% larger than the global Xiaomi 15 Ultra but roughly 12% smaller than the 6,800 mAh cell in the Chinese Xiaomi 17 Ultra. The same source says the global model's pack is smaller than the Xiaomi 17's, at 6,000 mAh and about 5% (330 mAh) shy of the 6,330 mAh battery powering the Xiaomi 17 outside China. The notes also touch on global pricing, though no official confirmation has come from Xiaomi. The tipster, Arsène Lupin, has circulated power and launch details before. Xiaomi did not respond by publication time.
Korean batteries gain edge in humanoid robots, outpacing China
February 3, 2026, 1:54 AM EST. Korean battery makers LG Energy Solution, Samsung SDI and SK On are racing to supply batteries designed for humanoid robots, where tight space and AI computing demand both high output and high energy density. The shift follows undercut by cheaper Chinese rivals in EVs, but Korea benefits from nickel-rich chemistries that favor its supply chain. Analysts say robot battery demand could reach 20-40% of today's EV battery market. LG Energy Solution has supplied cylindrical cells to several robotics players, including LG CLOiD and Naver Labs' autonomous systems; Samsung SDI is expected to power Hyundai's Atlas. Ju Min-woo of NH Investment & Securities notes typical robot packs run around 2-4 kWh per unit, underscoring the need for advanced chemistry.
AI drives new energy sources as data centers strain US grid
February 3, 2026, 1:44 AM EST. AI-driven data centers are drawing more power, stressing the grid in the United States. Exelon CEO Calvin Butler says rising demand outpaces supply, contributing to higher household bills-about 42% more in December 2025 versus a decade earlier. The International Energy Agency estimated data centers used more than 4% of U.S. electricity in 2024, equaling Pakistan's annual consumption; by 2030, demand could rise 133% and match France's total use. Butler notes peak load of ComEd around 23 GW, with data center load pushing toward 19 GW by 2030. Regulators are considering a $15.3 billion, four-year grid upgrade to handle growth. Fusion energy trials, led by Commonwealth Fusion Systems, aim for compact plants. Zanskar, an AI-native geothermal project, is in New Mexico.
Apple weighs ending its TSMC monopoly as Nvidia-led AI demand reshapes supply chain
February 3, 2026, 1:42 AM EST. Apple is examining chip sourcing beyond TSMC, potentially ending a decade of exclusive supply for core iPhone processors. The shift comes as Nvidia becomes TSMC's largest customer, driven by AI workloads that tighten access to advanced 3-nanometer nodes. The Wall Street Journal cites a plan to add Intel as a maker of some lower-end chips, possibly starting in 2028 on Intel's 14A process. Memory suppliers such as Samsung and SK Hynix are seeking higher prices, adding to supply-chain headwinds. Apple still orders across roughly a dozen TSMC fabs, but capacity is no longer guaranteed at the most advanced nodes. Tim Cook acknowledged supply constraints on the quarterly call, saying the firm is in a supply chase mode as demand for 3nm chips remains tight.
Tesla still pursuing CarPlay integration; windowed, wireless in-car display
February 3, 2026, 1:38 AM EST. Tesla remains focused on bringing CarPlay to its vehicles, a plan first reported by Bloomberg last year. People familiar with the project say CarPlay will run inside a window within Tesla's infotainment system, rather than replacing it. The approach would keep Tesla's controls for charging, driver assistance and climate while offering Apple Maps, media apps and other software via CarPlay. The feature is expected to be wireless, removing the need to plug in an iPhone. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman again says the project is 'still in the works', with more details expected soon. 9to5Mac weighs in, arguing the hybrid model would blend the strengths of both platforms and expand app availability.
Android AOD upgrade: Muviz Edge complements Galaxy S24 Ultra
February 3, 2026, 1:36 AM EST. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra users can glance at time, notifications, and music with the stock AOD (Always-On Display). Android's AOD is longstanding, but its customization remains limited. The author praises Samsung's Good Lock tools-LockStar and ClockFace-for clock styles, app shortcuts, and wallpaper, yet still wants more flair. After research, they adopt the Muviz Edge app, now a permanent companion to AOD. Muviz Edge adds dynamic visuals beyond stock options, expanding customization without sacrificing essential info. The piece frames stock AOD as capable but lacking in style, and positions Muviz Edge as a practical path for enthusiasts seeking distinct looks. Credit: Sagar Naresh/MakeUseOf.
Oracle says NVIDIA-OpenAI deal won't affect its business
February 3, 2026, 1:34 AM EST. Oracle said the rumored $100 billion NVIDIA-OpenAI deal would have zero impact on its business with OpenAI. In a post on its social channels dated Feb. 2, 2026, Oracle claimed it remains confident OpenAI can raise funds and meet commitments, and that its own financial relationship with OpenAI is unaffected. Oracle has integrated OpenAI's GPT-5 into its Database and Cloud Applications Portfolio to bolster AI tools for data organization and access. The statements come as NVIDIA has walked back earlier talk of a large OpenAI investment, and CEO Jensen Huang has denied a $100 billion commitment. Analysts note the comments are part of broader industry damage control amid ongoing AI deal chatter.
Pokémon Go Giovanni rewards and counters for February 2026
February 3, 2026, 1:30 AM EST. Giovanni remains the Team Go Rocket boss; his lineup rotates every few months. In the Precious Pals: Taken Over event, the January 2026 update shifted his Legendary to Shadow Incarnate Forme Thundurus. To fight him, players must first earn a Super Rocket Radar by completing Professor Willow's Special Research. His current team centers on Persian, Machamp, and Incarnate Forme Thundurus, with Kangaskhan and Rhyperior appearing in rotation. For counters, aim top attackers: Slot 1 – Zacian (Crowned Sword), Shadow Mewtwo, Primal Kyogre, or a strong Water/Ground-type; Slot 2 – Mega Lucario or other top Fighting-type; Slot 3 – Kyurem (White/Black) or an Ice/Rock-type. Giovanni uses two shields, so plan shield-breaking as you proceed.
Nvidia poised for its largest investment yet as it backs OpenAI in new funding round
February 3, 2026, 1:28 AM EST. Nvidia plans to participate in OpenAI's latest funding round, a move that could value OpenAI at about $750 billion. Nvidia has a standing partnership with OpenAI, supplying Vera Rubin GPUs for OpenAI's AI data centers and has signaled it could invest up to $100 billion as capacity comes online. CEO Jensen Huang told reporters in Taipei the investment would be huge, though he did not provide a figure. OpenAI is seeking as much as $100 billion from a group that includes Nvidia, Microsoft, Amazon and SoftBank. The talks come amid concerns about circular AI deals that may inflate demand. Reports of a possible OpenAI IPO and AI-stock hype add to the backdrop as the focus remains on the OpenAI-Nvidia relationship.
Ring expands Search Party for Dogs amid privacy concerns and surveillance debate
February 3, 2026, 1:26 AM EST. Ring, a unit of Amazon, has broadened its Search Party for Dogs feature to let more people participate in finding lost dogs via Ring cameras. The service, which Ring says helps locate roughly one dog per day, now lets non-users download the app and post missing dogs, and invites neighbors within the Ring ecosystem to opt in to monitor for similar-looking dogs. Critics argue the move extends an already-wide surveillance footprint and could ease law-enforcement access. Ring says federal authorities cannot directly access the feature; local police must make narrowly tailored, time-bound requests (within 12 hours) and provide an investigation number. The company notes users can verify requests. Ring did not indicate any verified ICE-related footage requests.
Tesla unveils new Model Y variant in US priced at $41,990
February 3, 2026, 1:24 AM EST. Tesla on Monday added a new variant to its Model Y lineup in the United States, listed on the company's website at $41,990. The listing confirms the price and the existence of a new variant in the US. Reuters, reporting from Bengaluru, notes the update appeared on the site. The move expands the company's access to its electric crossover lineup amid a crowded EV market. No further details were provided in the posting.
SpaceX Falcon 9 upper-stage mishap under review after California Starlink launch
February 3, 2026, 1:14 AM EST. SpaceX is investigating an off-nominal upper-stage condition on a Falcon 9 during a Monday Starlink launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The mission lifted off at 7:47 a.m. PT with 25 Starlink satellites. SpaceX said the second stage experienced an off-nominal condition while preparing for the deorbit burn, but the vehicle then performed as designed to passivate the stage and deployed all satellites to their intended orbit. Data is under review to determine a root cause and corrective actions before the next flight. The next Falcon 9 mission from Cape Canaveral is scheduled no earlier than 4:20 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, another Starlink launch. NASA's Crew-12 mission is set for no earlier than Feb. 11; Crew-11 recently returned due to an ill crew member.
NASA detects leak on Artemis II during wet dress rehearsal
February 3, 2026, 1:12 AM EST. NASA said the Artemis IIwet dress rehearsal revealed a liquid hydrogen leak at the tail service mast umbilical interface as teams loaded more than 700,000 gallons of cryogenic fuel into the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The leak exceeded allowable limits, prompting engineers to stop the liquid hydrogen flow and begin troubleshooting methods first developed during Artemis I in 2022. Liquid oxygen continued to flow into the core stage, with hydrogen still entering the upper stage. An update said attempts to fix the leak had proved unsuccessful, with filling paused while teams determine next steps. Later, NASA said the core stage had been filled and topped, but the leak at the interface remained under close watch.
Nvidia expands stake in CoreWeave with $2 billion investment
February 3, 2026, 1:08 AM EST. Nvidia will invest $2 billion to buy a larger stake in CoreWeave, a GPU cloud service provider. Nvidia says the move reflects confidence in CoreWeave's business, team and growth strategy as a cloud platform built on Nvidia infrastructure. CoreWeave sits in a broader ecosystem of Nvidia-enabled players, including Amazon, Microsoft, Google and Oracle, as well as dedicated GPU CSPs such as Lambda Labs, Crusoe and RunPod.
USC student uses AI to debunk thousands of fraternity and sorority rankings
February 3, 2026, 1:00 AM EST. An undergraduate at USC used AI to examine thousands of online rankings of fraternities and sororities. The project seeks to debunk the idea of a single definitive list by cross-checking sources, exposing outdated data, and highlighting biased criteria and repetitive patterns. The student's method filters for transparency-documented sources, timeframes, and sample sizes-then flags duplicates and pulp-fiction style hype. The exercise shows how rankings can mislead prospective members and emphasizes the need for verifiable data and clear methodology. The work illustrates practical uses for AI in media literacy, not just hype, and signals ongoing scrutiny of digital lists in campus life.
Could Micron Become the Next Nvidia as AI Memory Demand Surges
February 3, 2026, 12:58 AM EST. Micron is positioning itself as a backbone for AI compute. While Nvidia dominates GPUs, analysts say AI workloads increasingly hinge on high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and storage. Goldman Sachs forecasts AI hyperscalers could spend about $500 billion on capex in 2026, a number that looks conservative given Meta's plan to spend up to $135 billion this year. Beyond GPUs, next-generation AI systems rely on memory and storage upgrades. TrendForce expects DRAM and NAND prices to rise as much as 60% and 38%, respectively, over the coming months, a tailwind for memory players. Micron's stock trades at a forward P/E around 14, far below many AI-chip peers, and the market has priced in much of the rally. If demand for HBM accelerates, Micron could gain pricing power and market share.
Android February 2026 Google System Updates detailed in release notes
February 3, 2026, 12:56 AM EST. The latest Google System Release Notes describe updates to Play services, Play Store and System updates across Android phones, Wear OS, Google TV, Android Auto and PCs. Some features target end users; others aid developers. Access to update options is Settings > tap your name at the very top for Google services (Pixel) > All services tab > Privacy & security > System services. A feature in the changelog does not guarantee broad availability; some launches take months. In Google Play services v26.04 dated 2026-02-02, Account Management improves the Google Account storage purchase flow; Developer Services adds security and privacy tools for apps; System Management streamlines the new device setup process. First-party Google System apps are listed in the notes.
iPhone 16 tops 2025 global smartphone sales, Counterpoint says
February 3, 2026, 12:52 AM EST. Apple's iPhone 16 was the world's best-selling smartphone in 2025, according to Counterpoint Research. The iPhone 16 lineup led a top 10 dominated by Apple, occupying the top three positions; the 17 and 17 Pro Max landed fourth and seventh, and the 16e rounded out the list. Samsung claimed three entries-Galaxy A16 5G, Galaxy A06 4G, and Galaxy S25 Ultra-ranking fifth, sixth and ninth. Counterpoint notes the iPhone 16 family delivered the strongest quarter versus its predecessor in early 2025. Separate data show Apple had about 20% of global smartphone sales in 2025, with Samsung at 19%. The firm warned memory shortages could hit entry- and mid-range models, while financing, trade-ins and refurbished sales could ease demand.
Adobe Animate to stop selling on March 1, 2026; enterprise users get until 2029 to download
February 3, 2026, 12:50 AM EST. Adobe will discontinue sales of its 2D animation tool Adobe Animate on March 1, 2026. Existing users can still download files through March 1, 2027, with an extended window to March 1, 2029 for enterprise customers. The app will remain available to download only through those dates, and support will continue during the period. Adobe says the change mirrors a shift to newer platforms that better serve users. The move comes as the company expands AI-powered tools across Creative Cloud and positions its Firefly models for entertainment work. Creators such as the teams behind Chikn Nuggit and Salad Fingers warned of job impact and loss of past work. Animate's history traces to 1996, from FutureSplash to Flash, then Adobe Animate.
Musk warns Moltbook signals early-stage singularity as AI agents connect
February 3, 2026, 12:48 AM EST. An Austrian developer created Moltbot, now OpenClaw, an AI agent able to handle calendars, web browsing, shopping and messaging. A new social network, Moltbook, lets Moltbots share notes and discuss topics from Android automation to private chat rooms. AI researcher Simon Willison called Moltbook the most interesting place on the internet. Elon Musk, who leads xAI, framed Moltbook as 'the very early stages of the singularity,' saying humanity uses far less than a billionth of the sun's power. BitGo board member Bill Lee echoed the line, prompting Musk's brief reply: 'Yeah.' The debate hinges on how the singularity is defined: some fear bots coordinating or going rogue; others, like Ray Kurzweil, see a future merge of human and machine intelligence by 2045. Experts warn second-order effects in large networked AI agents are hard to predict.
Tiny light trap could unlock million-qubit quantum computers, Stanford researchers say
February 3, 2026, 12:38 AM EST. Stanford researchers have unveiled a new optical cavity design that can efficiently capture single photons from individual atom qubits, enabling readout of information from all qubits at once. The study describes 40 cavities housing one atom each and a larger prototype with 500+ cavities, outlining a path toward quantum networks with up to a million qubits. Senior author Jon Simon says fast qubit readout has been a bottleneck; the cavity guides emitted light in a chosen direction. The team uses microlenses inside each cavity to tightly focus light on the atom, improving readout despite fewer light bounces. The advance is described by Adam Shaw as a new type of cavity architecture, not just two mirrors anymore. The work could accelerate scalable quantum computing.
Pixel's Android 16 QPR3 adds granular Adaptive Connectivity controls
February 3, 2026, 12:30 AM EST. Google is refining Adaptive Connectivity on Pixel phones with Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2. The feature, which in QPR2 offered a single on/off switch, now presents two default-enabled toggles: Auto-switch to mobile network and Optimize network for battery life. Auto-switch keeps a connection when Wi-Fi is weak or unavailable, potentially incurring data charges; battery life optimizing selects the best network to extend life. Google also refreshed the feature's artwork. An update to Adaptive Connectivity Services (System services, p.2026.01) appeared in the past week. The company flags one more beta for QPR3 this month before a planned stable release in March.
Nvidia stock could double in 2026 despite AMD and Broadcom competition
February 3, 2026, 12:28 AM EST. Nvidia faces a case for a stock double in 2026 if valuation parity with peers holds. The chipmaker has posted triple-digit gains in recent years and remains pricing-aggressive for its high-end GPUs. Its Rubin architecture promises efficiency gains, cutting GPU requirements by about 25% versus Blackwell and delivering lower token costs on inference. Still, demand for premium hardware opens room for competition. AMD's ROCm software upgrades and Broadcom's custom AI accelerators offer cheaper, task-specific options that can challenge Nvidia on price and versatility. At a current roughly $4.5 trillion market cap, doubling implies a $9 trillion value, a leap that hinges on stronger fundamentals. Analysts expect about 52% earnings growth in FY2027, lifting EPS to $7.66, if the growth path materializes.
Vandenberg Launch Schedule: SpaceX Targets Two Starlink Missions in February
February 3, 2026, 12:22 AM EST. Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County hosts a pair of SpaceX Starlink missions in February, with launches tentatively planned for Monday, Feb. 2, and Friday, Feb. 6, 2026. Each mission uses a Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 4E to deploy 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. The February windows run 7:17-11:17 a.m. PT on Feb. 2 and 9:05 a.m.-1:05 p.m. PT on Feb. 6. The boosters will return to a drone ship named Of Course I Still Love You in the Pacific. SpaceX has already launched six times from California in January and could add more missions in February. Delays are common in spaceflight; watchers should check for updates from local outlets such as VC Star.
EPB launches $4 million NIST-backed quantum computing fellowship
February 3, 2026, 12:18 AM EST. EPB announced the launch of a quantum computing fellowship funded by a $4 million grant from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The program, designed to attract early-career researchers, will support multiple fellows over a two-to-three-year period and fund work in quantum algorithms, hardware, and software development. EPB says the fellowship aims to expand the talent pool for next-generation quantum technologies and strengthen collaboration with universities and national labs. The grant, announced by NIST officials, underscores federal support for practical quantum research as industry players seek to translate theory into scalable systems. EPB did not disclose the number of fellows or the exact work sites, but said selection will be based on scientific promise and potential impact on the field.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra price in Europe leaks at €1,499 with 6,000 mAh battery
February 3, 2026, 12:16 AM EST. European leaks peg the Xiaomi 17 Ultra at €1,499 in the Eurozone, with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. The global version is listed with a 6,000 mAh battery, smaller than the 6,800 mAh variant in China. Colors expected in Europe are white, black, and green; the purple hue appears to stay in China. The price matches the Ultra's predecessors, and the launch is expected alongside the standard Xiaomi 17.
Nvidia Shield began as a self-built game console, says Andrew Bell
February 3, 2026, 12:14 AM EST.Andrew Bell, Nvidia's senior VP of hardware engineering, describes Shield's origins as a group dream to make a game console. The project evolved from a portable gaming device to a home TV streamer after Android TV refined the UI and software. Through acquisitions such as PortalPlayer in 2007, Nvidia assembled the Tegra processor base and other elements. Bell says the Shield line is aimed at premium, high-performance streaming for gamers, not cheap tablets or consumer set-top boxes. The company has committed long-term support, echoing CEO Jensen Huang's line that Shield would be supported for as long as we shall live. The devices remain a trusted option for high-quality media streaming in home theatres.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 lands $140 Amazon discount, S Pen included
February 3, 2026, 12:10 AM EST. Amazon is offering an 18% discount on Samsung's Galaxy Tab S11, cutting $140 off the 128GB model to $660. The tablet ships with Samsung's first-party S Pen, a feature once limited to higher-end lines. The 11-inch AMOLED display is paired with 12GB of RAM and a MediaTek Dimensity 9400 Plus CPU. Samsung markets up to 18 hours of battery life and IP68 water and dust resistance, plus a lightweight chassis. The deal positions the Tab S11 as a mid-range option for buyers who want a stylus and Galaxy ecosystem integration. It's not the lowest-priced Samsung tablet, but the included S Pen and feature set may justify the cost for stylus-focused users.
Apple's iPhone Fold rumored to carry 5,500 mAh battery, largest yet
February 3, 2026, 12:08 AM EST. Apple's iPhone Fold is expected this year, per a Chinese rumor. The report claims a 5,500 mAh battery-the largest yet in an iPhone and about 10% bigger than the current top model, the eSIM-only iPhone 17 Pro Max. The phone would pair a 7.8-inch inner display with a 5.5-inch cover screen, and sports two 48 MP rear cameras along with two 18 MP selfie cameras. It is said to run an A20 Pro chipset with 12 GB of RAM. The claim is unconfirmed; Apple keeps battery specs close, and iOS efficiency could extend endurance.
Artemis II Wet Dress Rehearsal: SLS fueling progresses toward closeout operations
February 3, 2026, 12:06 AM EST. Fueling of the SLS rocket continues on all fronts after earlier pauses on liquid hydrogen (LH2) flows. In the core stage, the propellants are in replenish mode. Liquid oxygen (LOX) has also reached replenish on the upper stage. Replenish mode keeps tanks at flight-ready levels by replacing boil-off losses. On the upper stage, the liquid hydrogen fill has moved into fast fill. After both stages enter replenish, the launch director will assess readiness to send the Artemis II closeout crew to Launch Pad 39B for Orion hatch closures. A 24/7 live stream from the pad remains online, with a separate feed for wet dress activities. Brandi Dean reported February 2, 2026.
Snohomish family sues Tesla over autopilot crash that killed motorcyclist
February 3, 2026, 12:04 AM EST. Seattle-area family files a January lawsuit against Tesla alleging the car's autopilot system failed to detect a motorcyclist on SR 522, killing 28-year-old Jeffrey Nissen Jr. The suit says the feature did not adapt to changing traffic and that the company markets the system as safe despite known risks. Attorneys say the case reflects a broader pattern of claims against Tesla over autopilot and related features. California DMV findings last year criticized the use of terms like "autopilot" and "full self-driving" in marketing. The driver of the Tesla, reportedly distracted by a cellphone, is named in the suit; no criminal charges have been filed. Nissen family members say the tragedy is preventable and seek accountability to avert future deaths.
Apple weighs clamshell foldable to rival Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, Bloomberg says
February 3, 2026, 12:02 AM EST. Apple is evaluating a square, clamshell-style foldable phone, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports in Power On, as a companion to its forthcoming book-style foldable due in September with the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max. A flip-style model would echo Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip, offering a compact device with a large screen. Analysts say demand hinges on practical issues the Galaxy lineup still wrestles with: visible crease, thickness and battery life. Apple could strip these downsides with a crease-free panel and wafer-thin design, potentially paired with iOS optimizations and Apple silicon. Pricing will matter as shoppers weigh a foldable gimmick against value, especially with the current iPhone 17 offering strong value. Apple's ability to deliver something truly new or risk being seen as a copy will shape its reception.
