MacArthur backs Humanity AI with $10 million in aligned grants to shape AI for people
February 13, 2026, 3:40 AM EST. MacArthur Foundation unveils $10 million in aligned grantmaking for Humanity AI, a national effort to shape AI by and for people. Aligned grantmaking is a coordinated funding approach that matches donor objectives with grantee work. Humanity AI, launched by a coalition spanning the arts, labor, democracy, education, and security, aims to mobilize more than $500 million in new investments over five years. President John Palfrey says philanthropy must resource governance, public thinking and how AI is built and used. Focus areas include Democracy, Education, Humanities and Culture, Labor and Economy, and Security, plus public-interest AI infrastructure and conversations centered on people and the planet. Initial grants include AI Now Institute ($2M, national security and AI), Brookings ($2M), Data & Society ($500k), HRDAG ($500k), and LSE funding.
Tesla rolls out 2026.2.3 to most fleet; adds charge-unlatch, child alert, Grok for Cybertruck
February 13, 2026, 3:38 AM EST. Tesla has rolled out software update 2026.2.3 to most of its global fleet, including Cybertruck units. The company has moved to the main 2026 update branch, leaving behind earlier 2025-era tweaks such as 2025.45.9. After the US and Canada, Europe and the Middle East report OTA installations. Tessie.com and TeslaFi.com put the global uptake at about 62%. Release notes highlight: Unlatching Charge Cable by holding the rear left door handle for 3 seconds when unlocked; Child Left Alone alerts via exterior lights, sound, and app notification. The update also brings Grok integration for Cybertruck navigation (beta) and security fixes. In North America, most HW3/AI3 cars on FSD v12.6.4/v13.2.9 receive 2026.2.3; HW4/AI4 on 2025.45.9 stay on older firmware. Some undocumented features are noted.
Pixel 10a EU label hints at longer battery life and durability than Pixel 10 series
February 13, 2026, 3:36 AM EST. Google's Pixel 10a energy label from the EU offers a first formal look at its durability and endurance. Spotted by GSMArena, the label shows about 53 hours and 14 minutes of on-screen endurance on a single charge, and an A energy efficiency rating. It also confirms a 5,100 mAh battery rated for up to 1,000 full charge cycles before capacity falls below 80%. The label awards IP68 water and dust resistance, an A grade for repeated drops, and a B repairability score. These figures suggest the 10a could outperform the Pixel 10 series on battery life in practice, though real use varies with workload and brightness. Google will officially unveil the device next week.
Apple urges iPhone users to install iOS 26.3 immediately after security fixes
February 13, 2026, 3:34 AM EST. Apple released iOS 26.3 yesterday and urges immediate installation. The update patches 39 security flaws and addresses a zero-click exploit that has been used in real life against iPhone users, Apple said. The company did not disclose which flaws were fixed to give users time to update before attackers learn the details. The only publicly acknowledged issue tied to the attack is CVE-2026-20700, linked to the Dynamic Link Editor (dyld), the first code that runs when an app launches. Google's Threat Analysis Group flagged related WebKit flaws (CVE-2025-14174, CVE-2025-43529) that may have enabled spyware. Apple says the update is cumulative; installing 26.3 brings devices up to date. To install, go to Settings > General > Software Update.
Control Resonant gameplay trailer shows Dylan defying physics in a warped NYC
February 13, 2026, 3:30 AM EST. Remedy Entertainment revealed extended gameplay for Control Resonant during Sony's State of Play, continuing the series with Dylan, Jesse Faden's brother, rather than the original protagonist. Set in a warped New York City, the game follows Dylan as he tracks Resonant creatures amid a skyline where streets and buildings bend into the sky and surfaces swap ground. The combat leans more on melee, with the Aberrant-a shapeshifting weapon that can morph into hammer, blades and other forms-replacing the first game's gunplay. Studio previews emphasize environmental physics that bend reality, not just visuals. No release date was given, but Remedy reiterated a 2026 target. The company also teased that "things are going to get weirder" in the next update, signaling a continued push into unconventional design.
AAA John Wick game from Saber and Lionsgate unveiled at PlayStation State of Play
February 13, 2026, 3:28 AM EST. At PlayStation's State of Play, Saber Interactive, Lionsgate and director Chad Stahelski announced a new AAAJohn Wick game. The title features an original script within the John Wick timeline, expanding the franchise's lore with familiar characters and new ones. Development promises a distinct gun fu combat system, cinematic camerawork, immersive driving, and varied environments designed to place players in the Wick universe as John Wick. Keanu Reeves is attached to reprise the look and voice, among other elements. The game is in development for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and PC, with an announcement trailer released on YouTube. More details are expected in the State of Play roundup.
MiniMax launches M2.5 AI model designed for real-world productivity
February 13, 2026, 3:26 AM EST. MiniMax on Friday unveiled M2.5, a new version of its M2 language model pitched as designed for real-world productivity. The company cited in-house benchmarks claiming performance on coding and search rivaling Anthropic and OpenAI. MiniMax says M2.5 offers fast, cheap compute at a fixed size of 230 billion parameters, maintaining the same scale as previous M2 iterations. It claims users can run the model for an hour at 100 tokens per second for roughly $1. The release comes as investor appetite for smaller Chinese AI players grows, with global funds eyeing China's rapid progress beyond the tech giants. Rival Zhipu AI released GLM-5, doubling its previous size to 744 billion parameters, this week, underscoring a crowded field.
AI in Hurricane Forecasting Gains Traction at the NHC in 2025
February 13, 2026, 3:24 AM EST. At the National Hurricane Center, AI is moving from testing to guidance. In the 2025 season, forecasters evaluated AI weather prediction (AIWP) tools alongside traditional models, with careful verification before trusting them for operations. The center partnered with Google DeepMind to build an AI hurricane forecast model used experimentally, and it also evaluated NOAA's Environmental Modeling Center and ECMWF systems. Forecasters used these AIWP tools as supplementary guidance, not sole decision drivers, as experience grew. How do they work? AIWP models are trained on vast historical data-often reanalysis datasets-to learn how variables such as pressure, wind, and temperature relate across space and time. The core difference from physics-based models like GFS is that AIWP relies on learned patterns rather than solving atmospheric equations. More tools are coming, under thorough testing.
Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2 brings Guns of the Patriots to modern platforms for Aug. 27 release
February 13, 2026, 3:20 AM EST. During the PlayStation State of Play, Konami announced Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2, which finally ports Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots to modern platforms. The bundle also includes the HD version of Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, a PSP-era entry, plus screenplays, a Master book and a digital soundtrack. The listing hints that Metal Gear Ghost Babel on Game Boy Color will appear as bonus content. Master Collection Vol. 2 is set to launch August 27 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, Switch, and PC. The package targets core fans seeking updated access without remakes.
Apple Watch digital key unlocks cars across brands; setup varies by model
February 13, 2026, 3:16 AM EST.Apple Watch users can unlock doors and start engines with a car's digital key. The system uses NFC and Bluetooth to replace a traditional key fob. Availability varies by model and trim, and some brands offer the feature only on premium versions. BMW shows the broadest support, with sedans from the 2 Series to the 8 Series and related SUVs, spanning a wide price range. Other automakers-Audi, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Rivian, Polestar, Hyundai, Kia, RAM, Mini-also support Apple Wallet keys, though trims may limit access. EV lineups from Volvo and Mercedes, among others, are included. For older models, check with a dealer to confirm compatibility; RAM's 2026 trucks illustrate continued expansion.
CTA to expand AI gun-detection technology on trains amid safety concerns
February 13, 2026, 3:14 AM EST. The CTA plans to roll out its AI gun-detection system across buses and trains in coming weeks, following a 2024 test. Officials say the expanded network builds on 33,000 cameras already in use and aims to boost security on the rails. The move comes as the city faces public safety worries shared at a Chicago Lawn meeting with residents and police leaders. In the Jan. 1-Feb. 8 period, CTA crimes fell 6.9% year over year, with robberies down 18% and larceny down 11%, though sexual assaults and aggravated battery rose. CTA says expansion isn't in response to a federal funding threat, while acknowledging ongoing social challenges and the need for support services.
iOS 26.3: Android transfer, privacy controls and EU features
February 13, 2026, 3:12 AM EST. Apple's iOS 26.3 adds cross-platform interoperability with a new Transfer to Android feature, developed with Google, allowing iPhone users to wirelessly move photos, messages, notes, apps and more to an Android device, after placing devices side by side. Sensitive items such as Health data and locked notes are not included. An Android-to-iPhone switch is in beta on the other side. The update also introduces a limit precise location privacy toggle, letting carriers determine approximate neighborhood rather than a precise address on certain networks, with listed device models and carriers (Germany's Telekom; UK's EE/BT; US Boost Mobile; Thailand AIS/True). EU features expand: proximity pairing for third-party accessories, NFC-based device initiation, and high-bandwidth Wi-Fi for peer-to-peer use; Apple cites DMA work as enabling interoperability. Some features are still in testing.
Quantum computing breakthrough enables full logical Clifford group with minimal hardware via transversal gates
February 13, 2026, 3:10 AM EST. Researchers Theerapat Tansuwannont of Osaka University, Tim Chan of Oxford, and Ryuji Takagi of the University of Tokyo, with colleagues, demonstrate the full logical Clifford group for a family of self-dual quantum Reed-Muller codes using only transversal and fold-transversal gates. The advance allows addressable logical gates without ancilla qubits, reducing resource overhead. The construction delivers a constant-depth circuit for any Clifford operation across codes whose size grows nearly linearly with the block length. For the family, the codes have parameters n = 2m qubits, k ≈ m^2/2 logical qubits, and d ≈ √n. This work marks the first known realization of a complete logical Clifford group in such high-rate codes, offering a path toward scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computation with less hardware.
FAST-ONN: gigahertz free-space optical in-memory computing for edge AI
February 13, 2026, 3:08 AM EST. Researchers unveil a fanout spatial time-of-flight optical neural network (FAST-ONN) that computes billions of convolutions per second with ultralow latency and power. The design combines high-speed dense arrays of VCSELs for input modulation with high-pixel spatial light modulators for in-memory weighting. In a 3D optical system, parallel differential readout delivers signed weights for single-shot inference. Benchmarks include feature extraction in YOLO at about 100 million frames per second (MFPS) and in-system backward propagation training enabled by photonic reprogrammability. The VCSEL transmitters are deployable in free-space optical systems, potentially pushing clock rates into the gigahertz range. The approach offers scalable device counts and channel parallelism, opening a new path to real-time, energy-efficient edge computing for AI workloads.
FTC warns Tim Cook over alleged political bias in Apple News
February 13, 2026, 3:06 AM EST. The Federal Trade Commission sent a warning letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook about Apple News after reports of biased curation. FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson warned that, if accurate, such practices could violate the FTC Act, which bars unfair or deceptive acts. Apple's News app aggregates stories from various outlets to tailor feeds. Ferguson cited a Media Research Center analysis of more than 600 stories from Jan. 1-31, finding more than 400 from outlets perceived as left-leaning and none from right-leaning sources in users' feeds. The Media Research Center uses AllSides to rate bias. The FTC urged Apple to review its curation and take corrective action swiftly if conservative outlets are excluded. Apple did not comment.
Castlevania: Belmont's Curse for Switch set for 2026 launch
February 13, 2026, 3:04 AM EST. Konami announced Castlevania: Belmont's Curse for the Switch and other platforms, targeting a 2026 launch. Developed by Evil Empire and Motion Twin, the game is a 2D Action-Exploration title set 23 years after Dracula's Curse. Players follow Trevor Belmont's successor through medieval Paris in 1499, with monsters emerging as tolling bells signal the end. The Holy Whip, Vampire Killer, remains central, enabling whip-based traversal and fast-paced combat. A broad arsenal of weapons and abilities will require strategic planning. Biomes are packed with secrets, traps and puzzles, challenging both brawn and brains. An expanded art style preserves Castlevania's gothic roots while introducing a colorful new look, with familiar characters, foes and hidden rooms returning.
Optus offers Pixel 9a free with Pixel 10-series signup in Australia
February 13, 2026, 3:02 AM EST. Optus is running a new phone-plan sweetener: sign up for a Google Pixel 10-series plan and receive a free Google Pixel 9a. The offer follows Optus' recent iPhone 17/Apple Watch SE 3 bundle. Google has announced the Pixel 10a will launch on February 18, 2026. The Pixel 9a remains a popular budget option, powered by Google's Tensor G4 chip, and rumors say the 10a could keep the same processor. If true, the 10a may be a refreshed 9a at roughly the same AU$849 launch price. The deal is attractive for gifting or a second device. With the exception of the 128GB Obsidian model, other colors aren't available under this promo. The offer runs until March 22, 2026.
Threads launches Dear Algo to tailor feeds with AI-powered, three-day preferences
February 13, 2026, 3:00 AM EST.Threads is rolling out Dear Algo, an AI-powered feature that lets users tell the app what's important in the moment. Users type "Dear Algo" in a public post, then specify more or less of certain topics-for example, "show me more posts about podcasts." The adjustment lasts three days and can be shared via reposting another user's Dear Algo request. The aim is to make feeds more personal, surfacing current conversations or niche interests. The feature is live in the US, New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom, with plans to expand later.
Samsung Galaxy S26 colors, renders leak ahead of Unpacked
February 13, 2026, 2:56 AM EST. Images of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S26 lineup leaked online a day after Samsung set a date for its Unpacked event. Leaker Evan Blass published what appear to be official photos of the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra, suggesting a look that's similar to last year's Galaxy S25 Ultra. Samsung has scheduled the Unpacked presentation for Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 10 a.m. PT (9 a.m. ET). The leak reinforces expectations that the trio share a common chassis with incremental upgrades rather than a dramatic redesign, while revealing color options and renders ahead of the official reveal. Tech sites have circulated rumored specifications, narrowing the window for surprises.
Arianespace deploys Ariane 6 to sustain Europe's independent access to space
February 13, 2026, 2:48 AM EST. Arianespace markets space transportation for institutional and commercial customers, offering satellite launches to any orbit and any mass. It operates Europe's Ariane 6 launcher, developed with ESA and ArianeGroup as prime contractor, to maintain independent access to space. With more than 45 years of experience, the company has delivered over 1,100 satellites to more than 150 customers. Headquartered in Les Mureaux, France, Arianespace conducts launches from the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana, and maintains regional offices in Tokyo, Singapore and Washington, D.C. It is a subsidiary of ArianeGroup, which owns 100% of its shares.
NASA, SpaceX Crew-12 launch from Cape Canaveral to the ISS set for 5:15 a.m. ET
February 13, 2026, 2:42 AM EST. Four astronauts are slated to lift off from Florida's Space Coast Friday aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft destined for the International Space Station (ISS). Crew-12 will conduct research, technology demonstrations and maintenance on the orbiting laboratory during an eight-month mission that supports future Moon and Mars exploration. Liftoff from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station is scheduled for 5:15 a.m. local time after weather delays. The crew-NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, European Space Agency's Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev-will study pneumonia treatment, on-demand intravenous fluid generation, automated plant monitoring, nitrogen-fixing microbes for space food, and blood flow in microgravity. The Crew-12 replacement crew comes after the previous team curtailed their flight due to a medical issue.
Toyota's 2027 Highlander EV adds bidirectional charging, 320-mile range, and NACS port
February 13, 2026, 2:40 AM EST. Toyota gears the 2027 Highlander toward electrification with a 320-mile range AWD package and a Tesla-style NACS charging port. More notably, it becomes Toyota's first U.S. EV with bidirectional charging-or V2L-enabling power for appliances on camping trips, tailgates, or during outages. The SUV pairs a 77 kWh pack with a larger 95.8 kWh cell, offering up to 320 miles of range. It joins other V2L-capable models like the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV6, while trucks like the Silverado EV push similar tech. Toyota has moved beyond hybrid messaging, with the bZ4X updates and upcoming SUVs signaling a broader EV push. The Highlander arrives in late 2026 with V2L accessories to come.
Apple patches zero-day flaw exploited in targeted attacks across iPhone to Apple Watch
February 13, 2026, 2:38 AM EST. Apple issued security updates for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV and Safari to fix a zero-day vulnerability actively used in targeted intrusions. CVE-2026-20700 is a memory corruption flaw in watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, macOS Tahoe 26.3, visionOS 26.3, iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 that could let attackers run arbitrary code. Apple says the flaw appeared in an infection chain combined with CVE-2025-14174 and CVE-2025-43529 on older iOS versions, which were patched in December 2025. Users are urged to install updates immediately, or enable Automatic Updates, to prevent spyware or backdoors. Apple provides device-specific update steps for iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch.
China launches SD-3 rocket from sea, seven satellites including PRSC-EO2
February 13, 2026, 2:36 AM EST. China on Thursday launched a Smart Dragon-3 (SD-3) carrier rocket from waters off Yangjiang, Guangdong, sending seven satellites into planned orbits. The offshore mission, conducted by the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center, lifted off at 2:37 p.m. Beijing Time. Among the payloads is Pakistan's PRSC-EO2 satellite, equipped with high-resolution optical sensors for land mapping, environmental monitoring and natural-resource protection. The launch marks the fourth time the SD-3 has carried a multi-satellite mission, underscoring its payload adaptability and commercial capabilities. The venture reflects Sino-Pakistani space cooperation, with PRSC-EO2 expected to support various remote-sensing applications. Officials described the mission as a milestone for China's growing commercial space sector.
DJI Avata 2 FPV drone price drops to £539 with goggles, enabling 4K aerial footage
February 13, 2026, 2:34 AM EST.DJI's flagship FPV drone, the Avata 2, has dropped to about £539 with goggles, making immersive 4K aerial footage more accessible. The company touts a new airframe and a surprisingly robust build, with a 1-axis mechanical gimbal and electronic stabilization that produce smooth video as pilots dive and swoop. The included controller is described as beginner-friendly, helping newcomers pick up FPV flying quickly. Latency is framed as minimal, a key factor for dynamic moves seen on the slopes amid the Winter Olympics buzz around FPV racing. DJI has not announced a date for an Avata 3, though rumors persist. Early buyers may also find other Avata 2 deals in retailers.
Apple shares fall 5% after FTC warning on News app and AI-delay report
February 13, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. Shares of Apple slid 5% on Thursday, the stock's worst session since April, as investors digest a blend of regulatory and product news. The Federal Trade Commission sent a letter to CEO Tim Cook regarding the Apple News app, warning it could violate the law if it misrepresents terms and is accused of favoring certain outlets, raising concerns about the company's ties to policy makers. A day earlier, Bloomberg reported that some AI features tied to Siri have been delayed, underscoring questions about the pace of Apple's AI push. The move followed strong quarterly results, but the headlines cooled gains for the broader tech sector and left Apple down for 2026 so far. Apple did not comment in time for publication.
The Pitt's AI Drama Mirrors Real-World Hospital Debates Over AI Tools
February 13, 2026, 2:20 AM EST. In The Pitt's sixth episode, AI tools promise to slash charting time by 80%, but flaws surface as the system fabricates details and confuses specialties. The hospital drama echoes a real shift: two-thirds of physicians report using AI to some degree, per a 2025 AMA survey. AI scribes are meant to let clinicians focus on patients; experts say they save only a minute or two per encounter and require proofreading. Some institutions pilot advanced assistants like RhythmX to summarize patient history and suggest treatment paths. The debate pits efficiency against accuracy in high-stakes care, as doctors warn against rollout pace and the risk of errors. The storyline highlights that AI's value depends on human oversight and proper validation.
Android Auto to gain Google Maps driving avatar customization in upcoming update
February 13, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. Android Auto's latest 16.2 update references a driving avatar feature in Google Maps, signaling parity with the mobile app. The code suggests users will soon be able to change their Google Maps icon directly on the car's infotainment display, rather than unlocking a phone. The option is not live yet, but its discovery could pave the way for broader customization options on the system. Currently, changing the map icon requires the phone, a process that can be inconvenient or even illegal in some jurisdictions. The timing follows a recent bug that hid the direction icon; while unlikely the motive, the integration hints at a more flexible, driver-facing interface in future Android Auto updates, with support expanding beyond icons to other settings.
DJI Osmo 360 firmware update adds 9:16 recording, livestreaming; $200 price drop
February 13, 2026, 2:14 AM EST. DJI's Osmo 360 action camera gets a firmware update that boosts video capabilities. The update adds 9:16 aspect ratio support for Single Lens Boost Video mode, enabling 2.7K/4K footage at up to 120 fps. It also enables livestreaming in Single Lens mode and introduces a Film Tone feature with six filters. An Anti-Flicker option helps reduce flicker in stabilization scenarios, and the upgrade sharpens panoramic photo quality. The release also fixes minor bugs. Separately, DJI has cut nearly $200 from the Osmo 360 Standard Combo, making it more affordable for buyers eyeing vertical-video and livestreaming capabilities.
Google releases YouTube app for Vision Pro after two-year wait
February 13, 2026, 2:12 AM EST.Google has released an official YouTube app for Apple's Vision Pro, ending a two-year wait. The app goes beyond a simple iPad port, presenting spatial panels in front of the user and supporting 3D, 360-degree and 180-degree videos. The App Store listing promises the full signed-in experience, including watch history. After Vision Pro's February 2024 launch, many users complained about the lack of an app and defaulted to the web interface; third-party options appeared but some were pulled amid API-policy concerns. It's unclear how Google quietly produced the app, but the move aligns with broader XR ambitions. Netflix remains uninvolved so far, with no announced Vision Pro strategy from the streamer.
Titan Isles lands on PS VR2 Feb. 24; 90fps on PS5, 120fps on PS5 Pro
February 13, 2026, 2:10 AM EST. Psytec Games will bring Titan Isles to the PS VR2 store on February 24 for $24.99. The port runs at native resolution with eye-tracked foveated rendering and targets 90fps on base PS5, boosted to 120fps on PS5 Pro. The PS5 controller's adaptive triggers give each weapon its own resistance, while headset haptics and full bHaptics support enhance immersion. In reviews of the Meta Quest version, critics called it a compelling action-adventure, strong in both co-op and single-player modes, with a noted co-op standout since Dungeons of Eternity. Titan Isles is already available on Steam and Quest; the article's prior reference to Sony's State of Play has been corrected for accuracy.
Cobb approves AI-powered charter school as metro Atlanta districts weigh restructuring
February 13, 2026, 2:06 AM EST. Cobb County School District approved Power Public Schools as a new charter, opening in 2027 with about 100 middle-school students and a plan to add a grade level each year over a five-year term. The model centers on AI-powered personalized learning and early college pathways, reflecting how Georgia districts are reimagining classrooms amid enrollment shifts and AI adoption. Nationwide and state data show charter schools exist publicly but with more flexibility; Cobb notes Walton High was its only charter before, and Kennesaw Charter closed in 2020. Statewide, more than 150,000 students attend charter schools. Supporters point to growth for low-income students and opportunities to pilot innovations; critics warn of mixed outcomes, funding concerns, and stability given past closures. The debate unfolds as metro Atlanta restructures schools.
Iceberg Quantum unveils Pinnacle fault-tolerant quantum architecture
February 13, 2026, 2:02 AM EST. Iceberg Quantum unveiled Pinnacle, its first full fault-tolerant quantum computing architecture, claiming an order-of-magnitude reduction in overhead. The company says its qLDPC (low-density parity-check) codes enable breaking RSA-2048 with under 100,000 physical qubits, down from millions, under standard hardware assumptions validated by a preprint. The seed round of $6m was led by LocalGlobe with participation from Blackbird and DCVC. Iceberg is already working with hardware partners including PsiQuantum (photonic), Diraq (spin qubits) and IonQ (trapped ions), which project timelines to scale within three to five years. A partner at Diraq, Andre Saraiva, praised the approach. The funding will grow the team, advance IP and software, and expand offices in Berlin and the United States, as Iceberg scales toward utility-scale devices.
What the Galaxy S26 Ultra must fix after a year with the Galaxy S25 Ultra
February 13, 2026, 1:56 AM EST. After a year, the Galaxy S25 Ultra has grown on me, but initial disappointment lingered: marginal hardware upgrades, a nerfed S Pen, and Galaxy AI features that felt underwhelming for a $1,300 device. Discounts tempered my view, and I now see the phone as excellent, albeit not love-at-launch. The S26 Ultra will not enjoy that leeway; its MSRP demands scrutiny from day one. Ergonomics matter more than thickness. The S25 Ultra's grip is poor; the Pixel 8 Pro's flat front, rounded frame, and gently curved back show how a phone can feel more integrated in the hand. The S24 Ultra was thicker, yet easier to handle thanks to its shape. For S26, Samsung should pursue a sleeker, more comfortable silhouette and concrete hardware upgrades-a better camera and faster charging-while keeping value in sight.
Remedy's Control Resonant shows first PS5 gameplay with Dylan and gravity-shifting powers
February 13, 2026, 1:46 AM EST. Remedy Entertainment has released the first PS5 gameplay for Control Resonant, a sequel to Control. The player controls Dylan, Jesse Faden's brother, who has escaped the Oldest House alongside other anomalies, including the Hiss. He wields a shapeshifting melee weapon that can morph into a hammer, dual blades, and more, delivering a kinetic combat feel beyond the original. Dylan also uses a gravity-shifting power that lets him run on walls through the distorted world. The footage channels Remedy's signature surreal atmosphere. The game is slated for PS5 later this year, though no exact release date was announced. Fans can weigh in on the trailer and share excitement in the comments.
Three-wire logic rules yield complete axiomatisation for unitary qudit circuits
February 13, 2026, 1:40 AM EST. Researchers led by Colin Blake of Université de Lorraine present a uniform, finite axiomatisation for unitary circuits built from qudits, applicable for any finite dimension d≥2. The team introduces a sound and complete set of local axiom schemata involving at most three wires, enabling equivalence testing by derivation within a fixed rewrite system. They define a circuit PROP CQCd for each dimension and, using polycontrolled PROPs, treat control as primitive, yielding a bounded-arity axiom set QCd. A translation to the LOPP calculus and a d-ary Gray code underpin completeness. This extends previous qubit results (Clément et al.) and promises dimension-agnostic reformulation and optimization of native qudit circuits, reducing resource needs in verification and hardware compilation.
Microsoft AI leader foresees automation reshaping white-collar work
February 13, 2026, 1:38 AM EST. A Microsoft AI leader said automation will increasingly take on routine tasks in white-collar roles. The executive told a media briefing that AI and automation will shift work toward problem-solving and decision support rather than manual labor. The forecast points to rising productivity but also to the need for reskilling and training. Companies should expect a gradual rollout, with governance, data security, and ethics shaping how AI tools are adopted. The remarks reflect broader industry expectations as enterprise AI platforms expand across finance, legal, and administrative functions. Deployment pace will vary by sector, regulation, and talent availability, the leader said, but the trend toward automation in white-collar work is unfolding.
Pixel 10a leaks show flush camera, Berry color; Tensor G4 may power midrange Pixel
February 13, 2026, 1:36 AM EST. Leaked images from Evan Blass show the upcoming Pixel 10a in four colors – Berry, Fog, Lavender, and Obsidian – with a camera module flush to the rear panel, removing the raised lip seen on the Pixel 9a. The leak suggests the device ships with a USB-C to USB-C cable and a SIM ejector tool, signaling a SIM slot is retained despite rumors of a change. Specs echo the Pixel 9a: a 6.3-inch screen, 48MP/13MP rear cameras, at least 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, and a 5,100mAh battery. Google reportedly swaps in the Tensor G4 (instead of the Tensor G5) and may clock it higher; the phone could be shorter, thicker, and brighter at up to 2,000 nits. Price may start at $499, with chatter of a possible hike.
MPA decries Seedance 2.0 for 'massive' copyright infringement after viral Cruise-Pitt clip
February 13, 2026, 1:30 AM EST. The Motion Picture Association denounced Seedance 2.0, ByteDance's AI video generator, for triggering a surge of copyright infringement within a day of release. An MPA spokesperson said the service operates without safeguards, enabling unauthorized use of U.S. copyrighted works. A widely shared clip of Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt fighting on a rooftop helped propel the controversy. ByteDance says Seedance 2.0 marks a leap in generation quality, while critics warn the technology could threaten film livelihoods. The MPA cited a pattern seen with OpenAI's earlier Sora 2, which prompted calls for stronger protections and takedown workflows. OpenAI adopted safeguards; Disney later licensed characters to Sora 2. It remains unclear whether ByteDance will engage on licensing or face notice-and-takedown actions.
Elon Musk calls Anthropic AI 'misanthropic and evil' in scathing X post as xAI rivalry grows
February 13, 2026, 1:28 AM EST. Elon Musk blasted Anthropic on X, calling its AI models "misanthropic and evil" after the company announced a $30 billion funding round at a $380 billion post-money valuation led by Dario Amodei. Musk's reply, seen by millions, accused the models of racial and demographic bias and urged the firm to fix them. The comments come amid a public feud with Anthropic and broader competition between Musk's xAI and Claude's developers. Musk has suggested a link between the company's name and its alleged misanthropy, joking that fate loves irony. xAI and its Grok bot compete with Claude; reports last month said Anthropic cut off xAI's access to Claude. The funding round ranks among the largest private tech raises, second only to OpenAI.
Meta CTO: Will Learn From Steam Frame If It Proves Successful
February 13, 2026, 1:22 AM EST. Meta's chief technology officer Andrew Bosworth said the company will 'learn from' Steam Frame if it proves successful. In an Instagram AMA, he framed the stance as 'a little bit of both'-competition and support-and noted that every new headset is an experiment in how consumers respond to architecture, resolution and cameras. He cited Steam Frame's wireless dongle as an example of a feature Meta tested but found too cumbersome, while acknowledging that consumer enthusiasm could signal a larger market. Bosworth stressed that Quest remains valued for mixed PC gaming and standalone use, but Steam is pursuing an entire ecosystem, including portable PCs. The exchange echoes past remarks that launches are judged by sales and response, including references to VR Air Bridge.
Tesla ends Model S and Model X production, pivots Fremont lines to Optimus robots
February 13, 2026, 1:14 AM EST. Tesla will discontinue the Model S sedan and Model X SUV, winding down production next quarter as CEO Elon Musk shifts the Fremont, California lines to building Optimus humanoid robots, according to a fourth-quarter earnings call cited by CNBC and The Guardian. The move follows a year of demand weakness. The Model S started around $95,000 and the Model X around $100,000. For 2025, Tesla posted a 3% drop in total revenue, with Q4 deliveries down 16% and automotive revenue down 11%. A third-generation Optimus is planned for early 2026, designed for large-scale manufacturing. Some analysts warn customers may face parts and service uncertainty and resale volatility, even as competitors expand the EV market.
NVIDIA expands AI-inference push with Groq deal and Rubin platform
February 13, 2026, 1:08 AM EST. NVIDIA is expanding its AI-inference push by agreeing to buy Groq's AI inference chip assets for $20 billion, aiming to broaden its hold on real-time AI workloads beyond training GPUs. Simultaneously, the company unveiled the Rubin platform, built around next-generation memory tech designed to accelerate inference. Samsung and Micron were named as HBM4 memory suppliers for upcoming Nvidia GPUs, reinforcing supply links but concentrating risk. U.S. export rules that could loosen for older Hopper chips while tighter for newer architectures may segment Nvidia's portfolio by region and tier. The moves align with broader deployments across data centers and edge sites, from warehouse autonomy to industrial robotics, and suggest Nvidia seeks a deeper, end-to-end inference stack. Investors should watch how memory sourcing, policy shifts, and price dynamics shape Rubin's ramp.
Teamily AI launches world's first Human-AI social network for group intelligence
February 13, 2026, 12:58 AM EST. Teamily AI, based in Palo Alto, announced the launch of the world's first Human-AI Social Network, an AI-native instant messenger that lets AI agents join group chats as first-class participants. Co-founded by Dr. Aiden Chaoyang He and Prof. Salman Avestimehr, the platform enables agents to be mentioned, assigned tasks, reason collaboratively, and execute work in parallel with people. The company positions this as unlocking Group Intelligence-the amplified thinking that emerges when teams work with AI rather than beside it. Use cases span friends, families, communities, and co-workers, from planning dinners to building pitches and turning videos or papers into collaborative learning experiences.
Xiaomi's YU7 tops China EV sales in January, doubling Tesla's Model Y
February 13, 2026, 12:54 AM EST. BEIJING – Xiaomi's YU7 electric SUV topped China's January sales, beating Tesla's Model Y by a wide margin. CPCA data cited by Autohome show YU7 at 37,869 units, roughly double the Model Y's 16,845. The Model Y fell from December's No. 1 to 20th overall and seventh among new energy vehicles in January. Xiaomi began selling the YU7 about six months ago in mid-2025, pricing it roughly 10,000 yuan below the Model Y and arguing it offers a longer driving range. Analysts had anticipated some erosion of Tesla's share. For 2025, BYD and Geely remained the leaders. Xiaomi plans overseas expansion, including Europe, even as safety scrutiny continues around its earlier SU7.
FTC chief presses Apple over News feed bias; calls for review of conservative sourcing
February 13, 2026, 12:46 AM EST. FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson writes to Apple CEO Tim Cook, accusing Apple News of suppressing content from conservative outlets in the feed loaded on many devices. He says the FTC is not the 'speech police' but can address material misrepresentations or omissions, and urges Apple to review the sources and take corrective action. Apple had not responded at press time. The complaint cites a report by the Media Research Center (MRC) that none of 620 top January stories came from conservative outlets; most stories came from AP, NBC News, The New York Times and The Washington Post, with right-leaning outlets like Fox News, New York Post, Daily Wire and Breitbart News absent. The issue follows scrutiny from the Trump administration toward Apple.
Galaxy A07 5G packs 6,000 mAh, bigger battery than Galaxy S26 Ultra
February 13, 2026, 12:44 AM EST. Samsung's budget Galaxy A07 5G ships with a 6,000 mAh battery, outpacing the flagship's 5,000 mAh cell used across the S26 Ultra line. The device aims at the low end with a 6.7-inch 720p display, a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset and 4-8GB RAM variants, plus a 50MP rear camera and an 8MP selfie shooter. Color options include Light Violet and Light Green. Samsung promises up to six generations of OS upgrades and six years of security updates for the A07 5G. US availability remains unclear; prices are likely near earlier budget models, roughly $100-$150 in many markets. The contrast underscores a surprising battery strategy from Samsung at the budget tier.
Ariane 64 inaugural flight carries 32 Amazon Leo satellites from Kourou
February 13, 2026, 12:42 AM EST. The inaugural flight of the Ariane 64 configuration lifted off from the Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, carrying 32 Amazon Leo satellites for the Leo Europe 01 (LE-01) mission. VA267 marked the first time Amazon's Leo internet constellation launches on a European launcher and the first Ariane 6 mission for a commercial customer. The four solid boosters fired, then separated, as the payload fairings opened and the upper stage pressed the satellites toward a 465-kilometer, 51.9-degree low-Earth orbit (LEO). Satellites deployed over about 25 minutes, then began health checks en route to 630-km altitude. The upper stage later fired for a deorbit burn. The mission starts an 18-launch sequence for Amazon Leo, part of a plan to grow a global constellation of thousands of satellites.
Meta CTO says VR investment remains ahead of peers, despite cuts
February 13, 2026, 12:32 AM EST. Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth told a Davos audience and, later, on an Instagram AMA, that the company remains more invested in VR content than anyone else, and more than in 2022. The comments follow Meta's shutdown of three acquired VR game studios, layoffs at a fourth, the cancellation of the Batman: Arkham Shadow sequel, and the closure of Horizon Workrooms and its Quest for business offering. Meta says it is shifting some investment from the Metaverse toward AI glasses and wearables, but Bosworth argues the firm is still a net positive investor in the VR ecosystem. He says the growth pace is slower than hoped yet two upcoming devices are 'very exciting.' The stance echoes comments by Oculus founder Palmer Luckey.
Spectrum expands fiber network in Boone County, reaching 1,100 homes
February 13, 2026, 12:26 AM EST. Spectrum said it is expanding its fiber broadband network in Boone County, delivering gigabit-speed internet and related services to more than 1,100 additional homes and businesses in previously unserved or underserved areas. The rollout is part of a multi-year plan funded by the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF), aimed at closing the digital divide by boosting access to mobile, TV and voice services. Monte Miller, Spectrum's communications manager, announced the expansion in a news release. Boone County Presiding Commissioner Kip Kendrick welcomed the investment, saying it will widen educational and economic opportunities in rural pockets. The release cites a national effort to add more than 100,000 miles of fiber and reach about 1.7 million new locations.
AI video of Cruise-Pitt prompts warning that Hollywood could face upheaval
February 13, 2026, 12:16 AM EST. An AI-generated 15-second video showing Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt in a rooftop brawl has prompted warnings from a top Hollywood screenwriter. Created by Irish filmmaker Ruairi Robinson and posted two days ago, the clip is powered by a two-line prompt. Screenwriter Rhett Reese, known for Deadpool and Zombieland, told X that 'it's likely over for us,' arguing that someone with Nolan-level talent could soon produce a movie indistinguishable from Hollywood releases. He stressed he is not optimistic and fears widespread job loss in the industry. Robinson said the video was born from a simple prompt, highlighting how quickly tools improve. Other insiders, including Matt Shumer, warn that AI could reshape jobs in multiple sectors, not just film.
AI video of Tom Cruise vs Brad Pitt sparks warning for Hollywood writers
February 13, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. An ultra-realistic AI video showing Tom Cruise fighting Brad Pitt has prompted top Hollywood screenwriter Rhett Reese to warn that the industry could be disrupted by advancing AI tools. The 15-second clip, posted by Irish filmmaker Ruairi Robinson two days ago, was created with a simple two-line prompt and depicts a rooftop confrontation. Reese, known for Deadpool and Zombieland, told X that a single person with a skilled eye could soon produce a film indistinguishable from Hollywood releases, raising alarms about talent and jobs. He emphasized he is not optimistic about AI encroaching on creativity. The debate mirrors wider industry anxiety as insiders describe AI as a potential gatekeeper reshaping roles, with comparisons to the months before the COVID-19 outbreak.
AI deepfake of Tom Cruise vs Brad Pitt prompts warning of upheaval in Hollywood
February 13, 2026, 12:12 AM EST. An ultra-realistic AI clip showing Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt in a rooftop fight has prompted a leading screenwriter to warn that AI could upend Hollywood. The 15-second video, posted by Irish filmmaker Ruairi Robinson, circulated online and drew commentary from Rhett Reese (Deadpool, Zombieland). Reese warned: 'It's likely over for us,' adding that a single skilled creator could soon craft a film indistinguishable from current releases. He clarified he is not optimistic, calling the shift terrifying for many in the industry. The clip demonstrates how a two-line prompt can yield professional results with minimal input, raising questions about gatekeeping, jobs, and how studios evaluate writing. AI insiders warn the tools will intensify pressure on creatives as the landscape evolves.
Nvidia and Micron: Two AI Stocks to Watch
February 13, 2026, 12:10 AM EST. Two AI-focused names stand out as investors chase ongoing AI infrastructure growth. Nvidia remains well positioned, with GPUs as the core engine of AI systems and an expanding end-to-end server portfolio. A Groq licensing deal plus ongoing competition from AI ASICs aside, the stock trades at about 24x forward earnings, a valuation some analysts see as attractive. Micron Technology benefits from rising demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM), used to accelerate GPU performance. Supply remains tight, pushing wafer-capacity needs higher and contributing to stronger DRAM pricing. Micron is one of the three major DRAM makers, alongside SK Hynix and Samsung, with HBM sales reportedly sold out. The company is lifting capex to keep pace with AI-driven demand.
Nvidia and Micron: AI infrastructure plays amid data-center buildout
February 13, 2026, 12:08 AM EST. Nvidia and Micron stand out as AI infrastructure plays amid a surge in data-center capex. Nvidia's GPUs remain the backbone of AI workloads, expanding into end-to-end server solutions across its networking portfolio. The stock trades around a forward earnings multiple in the mid-twenties, offering appeal in a market near record highs. Micron supplies HBM (High-Bandwidth Memory) used by GPUs; demand grows with AI deployments, but HBM supply is tight due to higher wafer requirements. Micron's HBM is largely sold out, and the company is increasing capex to keep pace. The AI buildout supports continued demand for memory and processing chips, even as competition and pricing factors surface.
Two AI stocks to buy now: Nvidia and Micron
February 13, 2026, 12:06 AM EST. Two AI-stock picks stand out as the market climbs toward new highs. Nvidia remains a key driver of AI infrastructure with GPUs at the core of hyperscale data centers and end-to-end server solutions. Its forward P/E around 24 times keeps it in focus amid competition from custom AI chips, while licensing deals and talent moves bolster its position. Micron-a top DRAM maker-benefits from rising demand for HBM used in GPUs, though supply tightness supports prices. Analysts say HBM scarcity and expanding capex on AI infrastructure underlie both names. The takeaway: Nvidia and Micron could benefit from ongoing AI buildouts, but investors should watch valuation and competition.
