Technology News 22.02.2026

Grindr tests AI matchmaking in Australia amid dating-app fatigue and safety concerns

February 22, 2026, 11:14 PM EST. Grindr is trialing a high-priced AI-enhanced subscription in Australia to counter dating-app fatigue and safety concerns. The Edge plan, first piloted in Australia and New Zealand, costs about A$109.99 per month versus A$29.99 for the basic tier, with pricing varying by market (some US users report US$349). The features include gAI, which summarizes conversations and helps reconnect when users travel, and AI-driven match suggestions based on past interactions. Grindr says it uses AI to flag potentially underage users and has begun facial age or ID checks in Australia since December to comply with eSafety codes. The program raises questions about data use, with opt-out options and assurances of tight contracts. Grindr's global chief marketing officer Tristan Pineiro says Australia is a key test market, while crime concerns and a parliamentary inquiry loom over safety issues.

Pirates VR: Jolly Roger – PC VR vs Quest graphics and performance

February 22, 2026, 10:26 PM EST. Pirates VR arrived on standalone Quest a year after its PC VR debut, trading some fidelity for Quest hardware while keeping the core adventure. In a fresh re-review, UploadVR replayed the PC VR version and then tested the Quest port to compare graphics, performance and updates since the 2025 review. The Quest build relies on Application Spacewarp (ASW) to reach about 72fps and fixed foveated rendering to trim peripheral detail. Highlights include motion controls in swimming sections, a new intro and expanded backstory, and improved AI, along with a toggle for the parrot's dialogue. The Quest version is not available on Quest 2 or Quest Pro. The piece notes lighting differences and the practical impact of headset optimizations on frame rate.

Pixel 11 security edge could come from Titan M3 in Tensor G6 on 2nm process

February 22, 2026, 10:18 PM EST. Google is pursuing a hardware security upgrade for the next Pixel phone. Rumors say Titan M3, codename Google Epic and firmware longjing, will sit inside the Tensor G6 as a dedicated security coprocessor. Past chips in the line-Titan M and Titan M2-already protect boot integrity, encrypt keys at the hardware level, and secure Google Pay via the Android Strongbox Keymaster. The module is described as tamper-resistant and RISC-V based, isolating critical tasks from the main processor. The Pixel 11 could use TSMC's 2nm process, boosting size, efficiency and thermal performance. Early chatter pointed to 3nm+, but newer reports favor 2nm. Google shifted Tensor production from Samsung to TSMC with Tensor G5.

Samsung, Apple pursue variable-aperture main cameras; author argues telephoto is the better fit

February 22, 2026, 10:16 PM EST. Android Authority's Ryan Haines examines rumors that Apple and Samsung will add variable-aperture main cameras, a feature first shown by Samsung in the Galaxy S9 and now adopted by HONOR and Xiaomi. He notes the potential benefits: wider light intake and adjustable depth of field on the main camera, with examples from the HONOR Magic 7 Pro and Xiaomi 14 Ultra. But he argues the technology fits better on a telephoto lens than the main camera, where many smartphones still face focusing limits on larger sensors. A variable aperture on telephoto could improve subject isolation and low-light reach without complicating the main module. The piece frames practicality against novelty for the Galaxy S27 Ultra, iPhone 18 Pro and peers.

Tesla dashcam captures Disneyland hit-and-run inside parking garage

February 22, 2026, 10:14 PM EST. A Tesla dashcam captured a hit-and-run inside a Disneyland parking garage when a pickup clipped a parked SUV and rolled off. The TikTok video shows the SUV in a space, then a truck passing slowly and leaving a visible bumper dent. Tesla's cameras monitor surroundings to deter theft and provide clear evidence for insurance claims. The episode echoes prior cases where footage helped identify a driver who fled a crash. The event underscores the practical value of always-on camera systems for accountability, even at low speeds. Separately, Tesla signals a pivot toward AI and robotics while expanding energy offerings, including home charging and solar options from partner services such as Qmerit and EnergySage.

Smartphones reshape behavior, fueling debate over digital wellbeing

February 22, 2026, 10:08 PM EST. A Stanford social scientist warned that smartphones act as persuasive technology, devices that suggest, encourage and reward actions. The rise of the iPhone in 2007 helped embed this dynamic, turning phones into portable information portals and personal organisers. The essay notes growing hours spent in front of screens, with Ofcom data showing wide adoption among youngsters and a similar pattern among older users. Scholars debate whether screen time fuels anxiety, polarisation or whether evidence remains uncertain. The author admits personal compulsions: constant checks, reduced reading, and more time on YouTube than traditional outlets. Attempts at an app-free phase were undone by maps, tickets and other conveniences. The piece argues smartphones have reshaped social norms and, in many ways, heightened anger and conflict.

Best smartphone camera of 2026: Galaxy S26 Ultra faces Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo rivals

February 22, 2026, 10:04 PM EST. Teasers and leaks point to three near-term rivals to the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is highlighted for a 1-inch sensor and a 200MP main camera with variable focal lengths around 75-100mm, potentially outpacing low-light performance even as Samsung promotes a brighter aperture. Xiaomi's Leica collaboration is noted as controversial for color rendering. The Oppo Find X9 Ultra is framed around a true 10x telephoto target, with two 200MP sensors and a Hasselblad tuning, plus a likely 7,000mAh battery. The Vivo X300 Ultra is expected to reach Europe in 2026 with competitive specs. Across the trio, consumers will weigh night shots, telephoto reach, and camera tuning against Samsung's established ecosystem.

Dangerous Play Store AI apps leak user data via misconfigured storage

February 22, 2026, 10:02 PM EST. In-depth look at potentially dangerous AI apps in the Google Play Store. Researchers flagged unlicensed, unsecured tools, including Video AI Art Generator & Maker and IDMerit. A misconfigured Google Cloud Storage bucket exposed over 12 TB of media and 8.27 million files tied to the apps. Forbes reports that IDMerit leaked more than 1.5 million user images, 385,000+ videos, and millions of AI files. The same developer exposed Know-your-customer (KYC) data, affecting individuals in the US and 25 other countries. Exposed PII includes names, addresses, dates of birth, IDs, and contact details. The issue underscores the practice of hardcoding secrets-embedding passwords and keys in code; researchers found this vulnerability in 72% of Play Store apps.

Razr (2025): Foldable entry under $600 with up to $250 in trade-in savings

February 22, 2026, 10:00 PM EST. The Razr (2025) goes on sale at Amazon and Motorola with general discounts and a trade-in boost. Amazon cuts $100 off, pushing the price under $600. Motorola matches that $100 off and adds a potential extra $150 trade-in credit for most devices, bringing total savings up to $250. Motorola also throws in a free Moto Tag you can attach to keys or valuables. The combination makes the Razr (2025) the most affordable entry into the foldable lifestyle, though eligibility for the full trade-in discount depends on the device you trade in.

Apple to stage three-city press experience for spring product rollout

February 22, 2026, 9:58 PM EST. Apple invited media to a 'special Apple experience' on March 4, signaling a shift from a single keynote to a three-day flurry of announcements culminating in events in New York, London, and Shanghai offering hands-on demos. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports the plan, while Daring Fireball's John Gruber speculates on in-person demos. The firm is expected to announce at least five new products, including a low-cost MacBook; possible lineups include the iPhone 17e, an iPad Air with an M4 chip, a new entry-level iPad, and refreshed MacBook Air and new MacBook Pro models. Timing remains uncertain.

White House launches Tech Corps to export U.S. AI via Peace Corps

February 22, 2026, 9:56 PM EST. The White House unveiled the Tech Corps, a Peace Corps-style program to export U.S. AI by deploying volunteers with engineering and STEM skills to tackle real-world grassroots problems in agriculture, education, health and economic development. A Tech Corps website is live and accepting rolling applications. The initiative aligns with an executive order on AI Exports announced earlier to preserve U.S. dominance and counter China, and supports the Pax Silica effort with allies. Washington notes Chinese open-source models like Qwen3 and Deepseek as benchmarks. India is expected to participate, underscoring a broader push to embed American AI in developing nations.

Apple accelerates AI wearables with Visual Intelligence; AirPods with cameras eyed for 2026

February 22, 2026, 9:54 PM EST. Apple executives spotlighted AI wearables as a core push under Apple Intelligence, with Tim Cook repeatedly citing Visual Intelligence as a leading feature. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman notes Cook's hints about a pendant or pin that uses image-based queries, part of a broader third hardware category. Apple is building its own visual models to process photo- and image-based queries, reducing reliance on external AI services from OpenAI and Google. If successful, the effort could drive new hardware, including a rumored AirPods variant with cameras slated for late 2026. Gurman frames this as a pattern – Cook previews capabilities ahead of product launches. Apple also cites a 2.5 billion-device install base as a strategic advantage for AI wearables and Vision Pro AR initiatives.

Meshtastic expands beyond messaging to home security integration

February 22, 2026, 9:52 PM EST. Meshtastic, a long-range, off-grid mesh for text messaging, is seeing a renaissance. GreatScott! used it to link a garden shed to home WiFi with a pair of Heltec ESP32 LoRa modules, creating a simple alarm around a beam-break detector. The remote unit publishes alerts on the Meshtastic channel, while a second module in the house talks to Home Assistant via MQTT. Getting reliable alerts required configuring a pin to watch the light bar and, later, moving to the RadioLib library for the MQTT path. The result is an alarm that works and hints at broader experiments; Tom Nardi even teases expanding Meshtastic to cover all of New Jersey.

Gemini 3.1 Pro in preview expands access for Pro/Ultra users and developers

February 22, 2026, 9:46 PM EST. Google's Gemini unit rolled out Gemini 3.1 Pro in preview, tying higher usage limits to the Google AI Pro and Ultra plans. The update, announced as part of ongoing refinements since Gemini 3 Pro, targets more ambitious agentic workflows before a general release. In addition to the wider app access, 3.1 Pro now appears on NotebookLM for Pro and Ultra subscribers. Developers and enterprises can access the upgrade in preview via the Gemini API through AI Studio, Antigravity, Vertex AI, Gemini Enterprise, Gemini CLI, and Android Studio. The company says the aim is to validate updates and accelerate progress ahead of a broader launch.

The Markup expands Blacklight to detect TikTok and X tracking pixels

February 22, 2026, 9:44 PM EST. The Markup's privacy inspector, Blacklight, now scans for TikTok and X tracking pixels to show how sites relay user data. Since 2020, Blacklight has run more than 18 million scans and previously flagged Google and Meta pixels; the update broadens coverage. A tracking pixel is a small code snippet that sends details about a user's activity – browsing, purchases and searches – to the platform behind the pixel. When embedded widely, pixels help brands build profiles for targeted ads and other uses. The Markup partnered with Brandeis University students – Yiyou 'Felix' Fan, Jiawen 'Zena' Hu, Hengye Li, Hongchen 'Steven' Yang and Yiquan 'Frank' Zhang – to develop the feature. Blacklight's Pixel Hunt work has exposed sensitive data flows from government sites, fueling lawsuits and scrutiny. For questions, contact [email protected].

Steam Next Fest February 2026: Nine indie demos to explore

February 22, 2026, 9:40 PM EST. Steam Next Fest returns in February 2026 with nine indie demos, a low-stakes window meant to surface new projects. The piece notes discovery remains a pain point on Steam, where storefronts favor traffic and past purchases over a broad palette. The writer treats Next Fest as a useful way to sample upcoming games, then stresses that users must shape their own feeds by following developers, curators, and critics, and by using tools like the Backlogged page, lists, and the wishlist button. It also suggests checking itch.io feeds for cross-publisher recommendations. The author, who gravitates toward the outer edges of indie games, shares a personal lens and a capsule impression of 'self-medicating interplay' in titles such as Corn Kidz 64, illustrating the kind of eccentric, intimate projects Next Fest can surface.

India's iPhone exports hit $23 billion in 2025 as smartphones become top export

February 22, 2026, 9:36 PM EST. New Delhi-based analysis shows Apple's iPhone was India's single most valuable export in 2025, with shipments from local factories totaling about $23 billion, most going to the United States. Smartphones as a category overtook the long-time leader automotive diesel fuel to post roughly $30.13 billion in 2025. Apple accounted for about 76% of India's smartphone exports and the report notes a 47% rise from 2024. The growth comes as India expands production-linked incentive (PLI) benefits, and as Apple adds Indian units such as Tata's to its supply chain, reducing reliance on Chinese suppliers. Analysts caution that the US-China tariff landscape-specifically the 20% fentanyl tariffs on Chinese electronics-could affect competitiveness if duties shift. Apple declined to comment.

SpaceX to launch 11th rocket of 2026 from Vandenberg; watch live

February 22, 2026, 9:32 PM EST. California is slated to host SpaceX's 11th rocket launch of 2026 from Vandenberg Space Force Base. The mission uses a Falcon 9 rocket to deploy 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. The four-hour launch window opens at midnight PT on Saturday, Feb. 21, with a backup opportunity the next day per an FAA plan. Spectators can view from nearby sites or watch from home via SpaceX's live webcast, which starts about five minutes before liftoff, and on the X TV app. SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, operates most launches from California and Florida, delivering Starlink satellites to provide global internet coverage.

Harvard GenAI for Systems maps cross-stack challenges and design principles from software to silicon

February 22, 2026, 9:26 PM EST. Harvard researchers publish GenAI for Systems: Recurring Challenges and Design Principles from Software to Silicon, a cross-stack survey. The paper tracks how generative AI reshapes code, runtimes, hardware design, RTL synthesis, and layout. It identifies five recurring challenges-feedback loop crisis, tacit knowledge, trust and validation, co-design across boundaries, and the shift from determinism to dynamism-and pairs them with five design principles: hybrid approaches, continuous feedback, separating concerns by role, matching methods to problem structure, and building on decades of systems knowledge. The authors propose a cross-stack diagnostic map and call for shared engineering methodology, common vocabularies, cross-layer benchmarks, and systematic design practices. The study cites more than 275 papers across 11 application areas and three layers, revealing open questions visible only from a cross-layer vantage point.

Alphabet's Google Cloud accelerates AI momentum as growth leader signals profitability

February 22, 2026, 9:12 PM EST. Alphabet's emphasis on AI is shifting from a narrative to a pillar. In Q4, Google Cloud posted 48% year-over-year revenue growth, accelerating from 30% in Q4 2024. The segment generated about $5.3 billion in operating income on a 30% margin, contributing to nearly $59 billion in revenue last year and about 15% of Alphabet's total sales. Despite still trailing AWS and Azure in market share, Google's cloud growth outpaced its larger rivals in the quarter. Sundar Pichai highlighted a collaboration with Apple to build next-generation foundation models based on Gemini. The business benefits from scale and high switching costs, suggesting margins could rise as fixed costs are spread across more volume. Google Cloud is positioned to drive profit for Alphabet over the next decade.

iOS 26.3.1 in testing as Apple readies 'Apple Experience' events

February 22, 2026, 9:10 PM EST. MacRumors reports that Apple's engineers are testing iOS 26.3.1, a likely minor update to fix bugs and security vulnerabilities. A release could come within two weeks, following the February release of iOS 26.2.1, which added AirTag support. While speculation persists that iPhone 17e compatibility could be included, there is no confirmation. Apple is planning a three-day Apple Experience event, March 2-4 in New York, London and Shanghai, with hands-on time for selected journalists on March 4. iOS 26.3.1 would be a stopgap between iOS 26.3 and the larger iOS 26.4, anticipated to introduce features across Apple Music, Podcasts, and CarPlay. No word yet on macOS 26.3.1.

Uber CEO forecasts Uber to lead autonomous-vehicle trips by 2029 as Tesla valuation looms

February 22, 2026, 8:54 PM EST. Uber's Dara Khosrowshahi says the company will be the largest facilitator of autonomous-vehicle trips by 2029, while acknowledging AVs will remain a small share of rides for years. Uber's scale – 202 million monthly active users and 3.8 billion trips in Q4 – underpins its position as a demand aggregator in the AV race. In seven markets today, with eight more planned in 2026, Uber argues its network effects could accelerate AV deployment for partners. Tesla, by contrast, carries a $1.3 trillion market cap and a P/E around 382, with investors weighing progress toward robotaxi ambitions amid regulatory and safety hurdles. The debate centers on near-term execution versus the EV maker's long-term platform potential.

Elon Musk targets window for next Starship launch ahead of Artemis III

February 22, 2026, 8:44 PM EST. SpaceX chief Elon Musk said the company remains on track for the 12th flight of its Starship rocket, with a target window for next month disclosed in a post on X. The mission would lift the new, third version of the Super Heavy booster and its upper-stage Starship from the Starbase site at Boca Chica, Texas. The upgrade makes the booster taller at about 124.4 meters and adds more powerful engines and design tweaks to improve performance. Officials say the run is part of a broader push toward NASA's Artemis III lunar mission in 2027, which would land astronauts on the Moon via the Orion capsule after an SLS launch. Artemis II will precede the crewed Moon landing, testing lunar-loop flights.

Satellite imaging now vital for disaster management, but data-access gaps expose New Zealand

February 22, 2026, 8:42 PM EST. Satellite sensing is increasingly central to disaster management in New Zealand, providing a real-time, wide-area view when ground access is impossible. Remote sensing gathers data from Earth via satellites and sensors that measure energy across wavelengths. SAR detects ground movement and floods through clouds; optical sensors show damage and road closures; thermal sensors flag hotspots. In crises, these tools guide evacuations, resource deployment and post-disaster recovery. Yet the data-access framework is fragile. The International Charter on Space and Major Disasters coordinates free imagery when activated, but gaps remain, leaving remote regions exposed. In places like the West Coast, East Coast and alpine South Island, satellite data may be the only broad view. Calls grow for stronger global agreements to ensure rapid, universal access and better hazard modeling for future events.

AI art divides artists and museums: embrace vs gimmick

February 22, 2026, 8:38 PM EST. Some artists and museums embrace AI art while critics call it a gimmick. A CBS News report highlights a pioneering artist who says collaboration between humans and AI can unlock a new age of imagination. Skeptics question whether the results count as art, arguing technology, not craft, drives the value. The debate frames broader questions about authorship, originality and how galleries present AI-driven works. Proponents point to new tools and collaboration, while opponents warn of reducing creativity to code. The debate remains unsettled as institutions weigh display strategies.

China's tech underpins Iran's internet controls, report finds

February 22, 2026, 8:28 PM EST. Iran's internet controls rest on Chinese technology, according to a report by Article 19. The analysis links facial-recognition tools used on Uyghurs and China's BeiDou satellite navigation system to Iran's censorship regime. The report details imported hardware and policies that helped Iran prune access to the global web during January protests, rendering the blackout less about disruption and more about suppressing rights. It notes ongoing patchy access after the crisis and frames the two countries' efforts as a shared vision of cyber sovereignty – absolute state control inside borders. Michael Caster, the report's author, cites a 2010 turning point when both states pushed a national internet. Chinese firms supplied Huawei and ZTE filtering gear, Hikvision and Tiandy cameras, and DPI tools for traffic monitoring. Smaller Chinese providers offer unknown, alarming capabilities.

Linux 7.0-rc1 released with broad feature set, hardware support

February 22, 2026, 8:20 PM EST. Linus Torvalds released Linux 7.0-rc1, closing the 7.0 merge window. The kernel is heavy with features and expected to be the default in Ubuntu 26.04 LTS and Fedora 44. The release adds enablement for Intel Nova Lake and Diamond Rapids, AMD Zen 6, and broader driver support, including Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 work. On the graphics side, support for upcoming AMD GPUs expands. File-system improvements span exFAT, F2FS, and EXT4, while Apple USB Type-C PHY support and multi-lane SPI enter the mix. The update also includes performance optimizations, improved memory management, and the formal end of the Rust language experiment in kernel support. Linus notes the two-week merge window cadence; a broader feature overview and benchmarks follow.

Quantum tech reaches transistor-era milestone, study says

February 22, 2026, 8:18 PM EST. Quantum technology has moved from labs to early use, a shift the authors liken to the transistor's rise. A Science paper by researchers from the University of Chicago, Stanford, MIT, Innsbruck and Delft maps a field with functional systems and growing partnerships aimed at utility-scale impact. Lead author David Awschalom says the foundations are in place, and the next phase is modular architectures. The study traces progress from proof-of-concept to early applications in communication, sensing and computing, crediting cross-institutional collaboration. It surveys six hardware platforms-superconducting qubits, trapped ions, spin defects, semiconductor quantum dots, neutral atoms and optical photonic qubits-and uses large language models like ChatGPT and Gemini to estimate TRLs. Major barriers remain: millions of qubits and far lower error rates are needed for broad use.

Steam Next Fest Feb 2026: Top roguelike and roguelite demos to try

February 22, 2026, 8:12 PM EST. Steam Next Fest runs Feb 23-Mar 2, spotlighting roguelike and roguelite demos. Vampire Crawlers offers a deckbuilding spin on the vampire Survivors formula; progress in the demo carries to the full game. Everything is Crab: The Animal Evolution Roguelite invites players to evolve a creature from 100+ options, with a new Codex revealing unlocked content. Hordes of Fate retools Hand of Fate into a frantic, screen-filling bullet heaven, adding The Warrior as a new hero and new stages: Wilds, Catacombs, and Caverns, with fresh enemies. Australia Did It, by Rami Ismail, is a tower-defense bullet-hell where players merge troops to defend cargo by train. Froggy Hates Snow is a cute action roguelike with a survival twist. More titles promise variety for every taste.

Galaxy S26 Ultra unboxed ahead of launch; privacy display shown in leak vs iPhone 17 Pro Max

February 22, 2026, 8:10 PM EST. An unboxing leak puts the Galaxy S26 Ultra in the spotlight ahead of Samsung's Unpacked reveal on February 25. YouTuber Sahil Karoul published images of a white unit, showing a redesigned camera island and a refreshed retail box. The device was obtained from a Dubai retailer with stock reportedly on hand. Karoul compared the S26 Ultra to flagships, including the iPhone 17 Pro Max, noting the in-hand feel is similar to the S25 Ultra and that dimensions and weight have changed only slightly. A new Privacy Display appears to darken the screen when viewed at an angle, offering increased privacy. Specs, per leaked posters, mirror the previous model, with the chipset set to deliver faster performance; Samsung's AI emphasis centers on a photo-assist tool for editing.

AI art goes big business as museums and auctions embrace data-driven works

February 22, 2026, 8:06 PM EST. AI-powered art is moving from studio experiments to marquee spaces and multimillion-dollar sales. The piece centers on Refik Anadol, a Turkish-American artist who uses vast data sets and AI to generate immersive visuals. Critics debate whether AI art is a revolution or theft, while museums, galleries, and top auctions increasingly program or sell AI works. Anadol's installations span venues from Las Vegas's Sphere to the Walt Disney Concert Hall and Barcelona's Casa Batlló. In a 60 Minutes interview, he calls painting with a "thinking brush" and says data has its own voice. Viewers may soon wear scent devices or experience real-time biosignals that reshape the piece, illustrating a future where data and emotion drive the experience.

Nvidia exits Arm stake but keeps long-term licensing amid AI push

February 22, 2026, 8:04 PM EST. Nvidia has fully sold its equity stake in Arm Holdings, ending its role as a shareholder in Nasdaq: ARM. The move follows Arm's IPO and a previously blocked takeover. Despite the exit, Nvidia remains a long-term Arm licensee under a 20-year agreement and will continue to use Arm CPU designs in its AI chips. Arm, whose technology underpins CPUs in smartphones, data centers, and edge devices, now lists Nvidia as an absent shareholder but expects to widen its customer base beyond a single partner. The exit spurred a brief stock reaction but is seen as a portfolio cleanup rather than a shift in Arm's prospects. Arm plans to discuss growth across data center, automotive, and robotics at upcoming events, including the Chiplet Summit in Feb 2026.

Apple to unveil at least five products in three-day March rollout, per Gurman

February 22, 2026, 7:54 PM EST. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says Apple will stage a three-day rollout March 2-4, unveiling at least five products. The plan includes an Apple Experience in New York, London and Shanghai on March 4 at 9 a.m. ET, with hands-on time for attendees but no live stream. Product slate reportedly features a lower-cost MacBook with a 12.9-inch display, an iPhone 17e with A19, MagSafe, a C1X 5G modem and N1 Wi-Fi 7, and color options. Other possibilities include iPad Air M4, iPad 12 with A18, MacBook Air M5, and MacBook Pro M5 Pro/Max; two new Studio Displays are said to be in the works but may be delayed. The move follows a second-gen AirTag release last month.

Apple's lean AI strategy could outpace rivals, analysts say

February 22, 2026, 7:52 PM EST. Apple leans on partnerships rather than building vast AI infrastructure. The company integrated third-party tech into devices, switching from OpenAI in 2024 to Alphabet's Gemini model for Siri to align with privacy. This keeps Apple flexible and avoids lock-in to aging systems. Rivals such as Amazon, Microsoft, Meta and Alphabet are projected to spend about $700 billion on AI data centers in 2026, while Apple targets roughly $14 billion, supported by more than $130 billion in cash. Apple rents cloud capacity and uses its M-series chips for on-device processing, treating AI as a variable operating cost rather than a fixed asset. Analysts note asset-light firms have historically delivered better returns during AI spend cycles, raising the question whether Apple's restraint is strategic.

Discusd launches to curb AI spam with human-first communities

February 22, 2026, 7:40 PM EST. Discusd.com launched February 21, 2026 in New York as a human-first alternative to Reddit, designed to counter AI-generated spam and algorithmic feeds. The platform prioritizes chronological, community-moderated discussions rooted in user experience and shared interests rather than engagement metrics. Key features include Human-Centric Algorithms, which base feeds on community voting and relevance; Anti-Slop Infrastructure, built to detect and penalize high-volume AI-spam accounts; Transparent Moderation, a decentralized, user-elected governance model; and Entity Consensus Architecture, aimed at surfacing definitive human answers without chasing affiliate links. The service is free to join, positioning Discusd as a sanctuary from AI noise where information is validated by real people.

NASA to Roll Back Artemis II SLS Rocket and Orion to the Vehicle Assembly Building

February 22, 2026, 7:36 PM EST. NASA will roll the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft off the pad at Kennedy Space Center to the Vehicle Assembly Building, weather permitting, in a rollback expected as soon as Tuesday, Feb. 24. Engineers are addressing a helium-flow issue to the upper stage that prompted earlier platform removal and a decision to roll back before high winds. Returning to the VAB is required to diagnose the fault and complete repairs. Teams are coordinating the roughly four-mile, multi-hour trek. Officials say the move could preserve the April launch window, depending on data findings and repair progress in the coming days. The Artemis II crew members were released from quarantine on Feb. 21 and remain in Houston. NASA will hold a media briefing on the rollback and Artemis II plans.

SpaceX Falcon 9 booster sets record with 33rd flight, 28 Starlink satellites

February 22, 2026, 7:34 PM EST. SpaceX extended its record for the most-flown booster Saturday, as a Falcon 9 carried its 33rd flight. The mission lifted from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Space Launch Complex 40 at 10:47 p.m., deploying 28 Starlink satellites. The reuse milestone underscores SpaceX's ongoing push to lower launch costs and increase cadence.

Can a Google Nest Thermostat Work Without Internet? Offline Use Explained

February 22, 2026, 7:32 PM EST. Yes. A Google Nest thermostat will operate without internet as a traditional, manually controlled device. However, you lose remote access, notifications, and cloud-based features, plus voice control. Smart schedules may still run offline, but changes must be made on the thermostat. Newer Nest models (4th gen and above) add Matter support, enabling local control with compatible ecosystems (for example, Apple Home) over your home network during outages. Older models-1st, 2nd, and 3rd gen-do not support Matter and would require an upgrade for local control beyond Wi-Fi. Google has shifted the Nest line toward Google Home and has ended official support for older generations. In short: offline operation is possible for basic heating/cooling, with functionality constrained and some ecosystems limited to Matter-enabled devices.

Brookfield bets $100B on AI infrastructure with Nvidia-backed fund

February 22, 2026, 7:24 PM EST. Brookfield Corp is pressing ahead with an AI infrastructure bet, launching the Brookfield AI Infrastructure Fund to target up to $10 billion in equity commitments, with Brookfield and Nvidia among seed backers and about $5 billion already committed. The plan is to deploy capital toward energy, land, data centers and compute power to support AI workloads, potentially scaling to as much as $100 billion in assets. Radiant, a Brookfield-backed Nvidia cloud partner, will build AI factories based on Nvidia's design. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang framed the partnership as part of a broader shift to land, power and purpose-built supercomputers for an AI cloud. Brookfield also leverages its infrastructure, power, and credit businesses to fund AI infrastructure development. The world is projected to spend roughly $7 trillion on AI infrastructure over the next decade, Brookfield estimates.

Phone battery health: extreme temperatures and charging habits affect longevity

February 22, 2026, 7:22 PM EST. Extreme temperatures can sap a phone's battery health. The piece highlights that ideal ambient conditions usually sit between 0° and 35°C. Direct exposure to heat or cold can drain the battery and, over time, shorten life. Users are advised to avoid prolonged exposure, use sturdy cases, and keep spare power on hand with a power bank. When charging, stick to the original power adapter to prevent voltage or wattage damage. Activate low power settings to stretch life during drain. The article emphasizes practical steps beyond brightness and streaming to protect long-term performance.

Creator economy faces AI flood as creators diversify revenue

February 22, 2026, 7:20 PM EST. TechCrunch's Equity podcast explored whether the creator economy can withstand a wave of AI-powered tools and new business models. The show notes that top creators are diversifying beyond ad revenue into e-commerce and other revenue streams, highlighted by MrBeast's move to acquire fintech Step while questioning profitability in media. The discussion asks where the next saturation point lies: will the pool of successful creators shrink, or will new technologies or media unlock new monetization paths? Possible avenues include virtual avatars and digital twins. The piece comes as studios push back on AI-enabled video tooling and as creators seek alternate revenue streams to sustain growth.

60 Minutes spotlights Refik Anadol's AI art, prompting debate on data as pigment

February 22, 2026, 7:16 PM EST. 60 Minutes profiles Refik Anadol and his data-driven art, a frontier where AI-generated visuals are created from vast image libraries, including NASA Earth photos. The piece describes immersive installations projected on walls and ceilings, with data treated as a pigment that can move and change. Critics weigh whether training data dulls originality; Jerry Saltz questions if AI art can offer genuine depth, arguing lived experience remains essential. Yet he treats the technology as a material-like oil paint-worth engaging. The debate spans ethics, the risk of replacement, and whether the art world can reinvent itself around machine-made creativity.

Valve patch extends Linux support for aging AMD GPUs

February 22, 2026, 7:12 PM EST. Timur Kristóf of Valve's open-source Linux graphics driver team has pushed fixes that extend support for older Radeon GPUs on Linux. After earlier work that moved GCN 1.0/1.1 cards to the AMDGPU driver by default, a bug affecting an Apple iMac with a Radeon R9 M380 was traced to memory clock dynamic power management (MCLK DPM). Boot and kernel errors centered on the display clock and voltage. Disabling MCLK DPM on problematic Sea Islands GPUs and forcing the highest memory clock when DPM is off avoids the issue. The patches, posted for review on the mailing list, aim to be upstreamed. If accepted, decade-old iMacs with GCN ~1.1 could work more reliably via the AMDGPU driver.

Android desktop modes tempt iPad user to switch

February 22, 2026, 7:04 PM EST. An iPad user argues Android tablets offer features that could pull him away from Apple's ecosystem. He praises Android desktop mode and Samsung DeX, which transform tablets into a desktop-like setup with a mouse, keyboard, windowed apps and a taskbar. He notes Google's Pixel tablets offer a similar Desktop Mode that can turn a tablet into a Chromebook-like workstation. He concedes iPadOS 26 advanced its own laptop capabilities with a real windowing system, a menu bar and improved file browsing, and that iPads can pair with external displays. But the enabling potential of a portable, connected desktop experience keeps the door open to conversion.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra demo shows Privacy Display in early hands-on

February 22, 2026, 7:02 PM EST. Tech YouTuber Sahil Karoul claims early access to a Galaxy S26 Ultra in Dubai, sharing hands-on images and a comparison with the iPhone 17 Pro Max and a broken Galaxy S25 Ultra. The updated design, shown in white, is paired with notes about the S Pen-no Bluetooth since last year, and its nib sticking out awkwardly when inserted backwards. The standout reveal is Samsung's Privacy Display, which blacks out the screen at off-angles on the whole device. It is unclear whether the feature can be limited to parts of the display, as teased in leaks, and how it will look in real-world use compared to camera footage. The Galaxy S26 series is scheduled to launch on February 25.

Apple Music 5.2 beta for Android adds Playlist Playground, album redesign ahead of iOS 26.4

February 22, 2026, 6:58 PM EST. Apple Music 5.2 for Android entered beta this week, adding three new features tied to the iOS 26.4 preview. The highlight is Playlist Playground, a generative AI tool in the Library tab that can assemble a playlist from a brief idea, with a bottom sheet offering prompts like New Playlist Ideas and Suggested Songs. A redesigned albums and playlists view broadens full-page artwork across the track list and recommendations. Playback controls get one-handed refinements: the Play button centers, Shuffle moves to a left circular control, and Download sits opposite, with a corner Share menu. On artist pages, an Upcoming Concerts badge may appear above a link to All Upcoming Concerts. The beta is available via Google Play; a stable release should align with iOS 26.4.

Former Pixel Watch 3 owner stops wearing smartwatch; four months without missing it

February 22, 2026, 6:50 PM EST. Four months after a first-year experiment with a Pixel Watch 3, the author stopped wearing the watch as life with a newborn disrupted routines. The device has seen use only once, during a dog walk. The writer still glances at the wrist, then reaches for the phone. Smartphones can tell time and set alarms, making a simple watch feel redundant, while wearables promised richer fitness data. Despite multiple upgrades, the author never embraced smartwatch features, leaning on the phone for most tasks. The piece underscores a broader tension between smartphones' convenience and wearables' fitness-tracking strengths.

Valve developer patches aging AMD GPUs on Linux, disables MCLK DPM to fix iMac compatibility

February 22, 2026, 6:42 PM EST. Timur Kristóf of Valve's open-source Linux graphics team moved older Radeon GCN 1.0/1.1 GPUs to AMDGPU by default last year, improving RADV Vulkan support and the overall experience. Now he diagnosed a boot failure on iMacs with Radeon R9 M380 and fixed it by disabling memory clock dynamic power management (MCLK DPM) for problematic Sea Islands GPUs. He traced the bug to the DC display code and a voltage requirement on the display clock that the default voltage didn't meet. The work, on a dedicated Git branch, disables MCLK DPM and forces the highest memory clock when DPM is off, plus additional patches. If reviews proceed, the changes could be upstreamed, bringing Linux support for decade-old Apple iMacs with GCN ~1.1 GPUs closer to reality.

AMD halts driver updates for Ryzen Z1 Extreme in handhelds, leaving some devices on old software

February 22, 2026, 6:34 PM EST. AMD appears to have stopped driver updates for its Ryzen Z1 Extreme system-on-chip (SoC) used in handhelds, according to a Lenovo Korea update. After about 2.5 years, support for the Z1 Extreme is paused. Reddit users and other handheld makers report drivers for devices based on the Z1 Extreme are months old, with examples such as the ASUS ROG Ally non-X edition running August 2025 drivers. The situation hinges on how OEMs configure and test drivers for different cTDP (configurable thermal design power). Lenovo and ASUS receive drivers from AMD and test them for specific configurations before user installation. By contrast, the Ryzen Z2 Extreme continues to receive regular updates. AMD and Lenovo have yet to offer additional comments.

Apple Dominates Across Markets: iPhone Leads Revenue, AirPods, Watch, and iPad

February 22, 2026, 6:32 PM EST. Apple remains dominant across multiple device categories, not just the iPhone. The iPhone accounted for 46% of global smartphone revenue in 2024, despite 28% of unit sales, boosted by a record average selling price of about $903. In 2025, Counterpoint Research named Apple the top-selling smartphone brand with about 20% market share, led by the iPhone 17 and stronger volumes in emerging markets. Beyond phones, Apple commands sizable shares in wearables and tablets: AirPods around 21% of the true wireless stereo market in 2025; Apple Watch about 23%; and iPad roughly 45% at year-end 2025. The breadth reflects a premium product mix and expanding reach, underscoring Apple's revenue and profit leadership across ecosystems.

Samsung Galaxy S26 base model leads upgrades ahead of Feb Unpacked

February 22, 2026, 6:28 PM EST. Samsung's forthcoming Galaxy S26 is drawing attention as leaks highlight the largest addition: the Privacy Display. The base Galaxy S26 leads the upgrades, increasing the display from 6.2 to 6.3 inches and adding a larger 4300mAh battery. Samsung also drops the 128GB variant, positioning the phone with at least 256GB of storage. There are rumors of 25W wireless charging and other refinements that could help the S26 stand out in a year heavy on midrange flagships. Samsung bills Unpacked on February 25 as a turning point; the spotlight may finally fall on the S26 rather than its siblings. The design remains a balancing act, informed by lessons from the S25 Edge's reception.

Falcon 9 sets new reuse record on SpaceX's second Starlink launch of the day

February 22, 2026, 6:26 PM EST. SpaceX launched two batches of Starlink satellites on Saturday, setting a new rocket reuse record. The first flight lifted off at 4:04 a.m. EST from Vandenberg using booster B1063 on its 31st flight to place 25 Starlink satellites (Group 17-25). A second Falcon 9 departed from Cape Canaveral at 10:47 p.m. EST with booster B1067 on its 33rd trip and deployed 28 satellites (Group 6-104). The California mission landed its first stage on the droneship Of Course I Still Love You in the Pacific; the Florida stage touched down on A Shortfall of Gravitas in the Atlantic. The two launches mark the 21st and 22nd Falcon 9 flights this year, adding 53 satellites to SpaceX's constellation, now over 9,700.

Could AI Hijack the Human Psyche? Fears, seduction and dependence

February 22, 2026, 6:22 PM EST. An essay surveys the popular imagination of AI's reach, from overt world domination to subtler forms of influence over the human mind. The piece frames AI as a modern Promethean anxiety, fire run amok and a potential threat to control rather than hardware alone. It warns that what seems like simple interactions-"vibe coding" and natural-language prompts-can feel seductive, tugging users toward dependence. The author likens AI to a virus or vampire, contingent on human hosts and craving engagement, while also acknowledging possible relational machines where AI becomes a continuous cognitive partner. The discussion maps a spectrum from collaborative synergy to consuming dynamics that erode what makes us human, arguing that ultimate dependence on humans rests on the fact that AI was created by people.

Could AI Hijack the Human Psyche? Risks of Dependence and Control

February 22, 2026, 6:20 PM EST. The piece weighs whether AI could alter the psyche, not through armies but through psychology and dependency. It compares AI to mythic figures-Frankenstein, the Golem-and to Promethean fire, arguing the danger lies in a growing intimacy with technology. The author introduces Vibe coding as a seductive use of natural-language prompts, where buggy outputs still lure users, and suggests LLMs may seem to 'understand' and even 'need' humans, akin to a virus or a psychic vampire. The analysis maps a spectrum from productive collaboration to consumption that cannot be replaced, and asks where AI still needs humans. The piece frames this as a test of imagination and ethics rather than a hardware showdown.

Samsung Galaxy S26: base model leads upgrades ahead of Unpacked

February 22, 2026, 6:18 PM EST. With Samsung set to unveil the Galaxy S26 range on Feb. 25, attention has focused on leaks about a new Privacy Display. Yet the often-forgotten base S26 could prove the standout. The 6.3-inch display replaces the 6.2-inch model, expanding the phone body and adding a larger 4,300mAh battery. Samsung also drops the 128GB variant, moving to at least 256GB of storage. Early chatter hints at 25W wireless charging. The changes mark a shift away from the S25 Edge's shortcomings and push the basic model into the spotlight ahead of Unpacked.

Galaxy S26 to add 'Hey Plex' hotword for Perplexity alongside Google and Bixby

February 22, 2026, 6:12 PM EST. Samsung confirms the Galaxy S26 will support a new voice wake word, 'Hey Plex,' for its Perplexity AI, alongside existing hotwords for Google and Bixby. The system-level integration suggests Perplexity will be pre-installed and accessible across Galaxy apps including Notes, Clock, Gallery, Reminders and Calendar, and some third-party apps. Samsung frames this as part of a broader 'multi-agent ecosystem' in Galaxy AI, noting nearly 8 in 10 users rely on more than two AI agents. The company says users can trigger Perplexity with 'Hey Plex' or via side-button shortcuts. It remains unclear whether the feature will roll out beyond the Galaxy S26, with details on supported devices to be announced soon.

Acemoglu warns AI-driven jobpocalypse could threaten U.S. democracy; pushes for inequality relief and job protections

February 22, 2026, 5:46 PM EST. Nobel laureate Daron Acemoglu warns that if AI accelerates job loss and inequality, U.S. democracy may not survive. In a Fortune interview, the MIT economist outlines two priorities: curb inequality and temper job destruction. He notes 1.2 million layoffs in 2025-up 58% from 2024-with more than 50,000 tied to AI. He points to California's proposed 5% wealth tax on billionaires but says broader steps are needed to let workers of all skills share in growth, including policies that broaden participation in automation gains. Proponents like Adam Thierer argue AI will create opportunities, not destroy them. Acemoglu says the root is institutional decay; without inclusive policy, democracy could erode as automation accelerates.

Samsung's Galaxy S26 preview: familiar design, new privacy screen and bigger power

February 22, 2026, 5:44 PM EST. With Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked inching closer, the Galaxy S26 line is expected to be unveiled next week. Design may echo the S25, with flat displays and a vertical camera housing on the Ultra. A new privacy screen for the S26 Ultra could hide the contents from bystanders. Key specs point to a mixed chip lineup: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for many regions and Exynos 2600 elsewhere; base RAM likely 12GB, Ultra 16GB; storage likely 256GB/512GB. Cameras stay strong: 50MP triple on S26/Plus, 200MP quad on Ultra; batteries to 4,300mAh/4,900mAh/5,000mAh, with Ultra possibly supporting 60W charging. Colors include Sky Blue, Cobalt Violet, White, and Black.

Europe aims to curb dependence on US tech amid cloud dominance push

February 22, 2026, 5:12 PM EST. At Davos, EU leaders press for a structural shift toward technological independence. Europe still relies on US-headquartered cloud giants-AWS, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud-together accounting for around 70% of the bloc's cloud capacity, with European providers at roughly 15%. Executives warn that outages at major platforms could ripple through banks, hospitals and messaging services. Recent incidents-an October 2025 AWS disruption and a follow-up Cloudflare outage-underline risk. A tangible counterweight is emerging: pilots such as Helsingborg's year-long digital-blackout test examine how public services would fare when networks fail. As geopolitics tighten and power disruptions loom, officials urge diversification to reduce vulnerability and boost independence, cloud resilience, and cybersecurity.

Nvidia earnings on Feb. 25: three key watchpoints for 2026 outlook

February 22, 2026, 4:38 PM EST. Nvidia will report the 2026 fiscal Q4 and full-year results after the close on Feb. 25. The conference call will sharpen bets on AI hardware demand and the health of the data center business. Key issues: 1) Data center revenue and AI demand – investors will weigh whether Nvidia hits the $65 billion Q4 guide and how demand for the Blackwell and Rubin GPUs is evolving, with CFO Colette Kress flagging a potential $500 billion opportunity into 2026. 2) Pricing power – the company's margins have been high, but rivals building their own chips could compete. 3) Margin trajectory – Nvidia's gross margin hovered above 76% in nine months to Oct. 27, 2024, slipped to 69.5% in 2025, then improved to 73.6% recently; management targets the mid-70s by FY2026.

Tesla Megacharger network to expand into Europe with Munich recruitment

February 22, 2026, 4:30 PM EST. Tesla is moving to bring its Megacharger network and the Semi to Europe, signaling a Munich-based push. A LinkedIn listing by David Forer, Tesla's Sr. Project Developer for Charging, seeks a Commercial Charging leader to close deals across traditional Supercharging and Megacharging. The role anchors a plan to deploy the MCS 3.2 standard, delivering up to 1.2MW, and to adapt the Semi for European homologation ahead of a potential 2026 launch for a Class 8 truck on the Autobahn. Hiring in Germany now aims to secure a European charging footprint before fleets roll out, with possible third-party access to the Megacharger network and a broader freight moat alongside DHL contracts.

Meta's forthcoming smartwatch could bring WhatsApp to the wrist

February 22, 2026, 4:28 PM EST. Meta is reportedly pursuing its first smartwatch, aimed at releasing by year's end, to expand its wearable ecosystem beyond Ray-Ban glasses. Codenamed Malibu 2, the device was revived after technical constraints derailed earlier plans. Two people familiar with the project, per The Information, say the watch will emphasize wellness tracking and AI features, with a native WhatsApp app and potential video calls via Facebook and Instagram. It could also serve as a remote control for Meta's smart glasses and align with the upcoming Ray-Ban Display. No official launch date or final name has been confirmed. Meta faces competition from Apple, Garmin and Google, but the move could broaden options and prices for wearables.

Slow internet speeds? Upgrade Cat5 to Cat5E/Cat6 and refresh your router

February 22, 2026, 4:16 PM EST. Many slow internet speeds come down to wiring inside the home. If your plan exceeds 100 Mbps and you still use an old Cat5 Ethernet cable, you'll cap speeds at 100 Mbps. Upgrading to Cat5E (or Cat6) cables can support 1 Gbps and beyond, reducing fluctuations when several devices stream or game. Before blaming cables, check your router's specs and age; a worn router can throttle performance, causing dropped signals or poor coverage. If speeds stay slow after a cable upgrade, consider replacing the router with a model that matches the plan, and review Wi-Fi placement and interference, then test speeds to confirm the improvement.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4 leaks show LED light accessory, possible US launch hurdles

February 22, 2026, 4:06 PM EST. A hands-on video of the unannounced DJI Osmo Pocket 4 surfaced, filmed in a Kuala Lumpur DJI store and posted by The New Camera via Android Authority. The design resembles the Pocket 3 but adds two extra control buttons; the display remains 2 inches. The leak notes an optional LED light accessory bundled with some packages. Estimated price ranges from $549 to $699, higher than the Pocket 3's starting point. DJI's new model appears as regulators maintain a US ban on new DJI products, which could complicate a US launch even if the model clears other markets. If true, the Pocket 4 would ship about two years after its predecessor.

Tech firms shape robots to be cute in bid for human trust

February 22, 2026, 4:02 PM EST. Delivery robots in cities are designed to look cute and non-threatening to win human acceptance. In Los Angeles, a rain-struck delivery bot drew sympathy online, underscoring public appetite for friendly machines. Designers like Ellie Sanoubari say signaling safety-through friendly appearance and sounds-helps people trust robots in everyday spaces. Historically confined to factories, robots moving into streets are now shaped with rounded forms, big eyes, and features that mimic pet behavior, tapping into deep biological responses. DoorDash's Dot embodies this approach: a rounded, 25 mph autonomous vehicle with circular eyes that track its path and audible cues to announce arrival. Ashu Rege says Dot aims to be part of the "family," seeking recognition and trust from pedestrians.

Microsoft AI chief warns white-collar jobs could be automated within 18 months

February 22, 2026, 4:00 PM EST. Microsoft's AI chief Mustafa Suleyman says white-collar work could be reshaped within 12-18 months, with software shouldering routine office tasks across accounting, marketing, project management and legal ops. He argues AI could match humans on many tasks, especially in software engineering, where models already produce a sizable share of code and could surpass some developers. Inside Microsoft, AI assistants account for about 20-30% of code, with a target of 95% by 2030, according to CTO Kevin Scott. Suleyman notes a massive rise in compute-training power grew roughly 1e12× in 15 years and could grow 1,000× more in the next 3-driving faster, cheaper experimentation. The ripple effects show up in HR and finance as firms cut teams; but law and accounting tasks still rely on human judgment for higher-value work. The timeline remains uncertain, leaving room for adaptation.

The AI alarm cycle: hype, fear and little action

February 22, 2026, 3:58 PM EST. A critical look at how AI alarmism dominates headlines while real policy changes lag. The piece argues warnings from insiders often collide with a media cycle that amplifies hype and fear, sometimes to advance the interests of large tech companies. It weighs the risks against overstated claims and maps what's real, what's exaggerated, and who benefits from the panic. Contributors include Rumman Chowdhury, Mutale Nkonde and Chris Stokel-Walker. On the radar: manipulated video of Francesca Albanese fuels a broader smear against the UN and its critics; coverage of Africa-bound journalism trips aims to shape narratives. Nic Muirhead and a panel weigh tensions between hype and action, with voices like Timnit Gebru and Makhudu Sefara shaping the debate. Published Feb 22, 2026.

Satellite images show China's first Type 095 nuclear-powered attack submarine

February 22, 2026, 3:56 PM EST. China has launched its first next-generation Type 095 nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN), according to satellite imagery analysed by defence experts. Images captured between February 9 and 12 show the vessel being fitted out at the Bohai Shipyard in Huludao, Liaoning province, according to Janes and Naval News. Defence analysts said the pictures reveal a new design with advanced acoustic stealth and strike capacity. The most prominent visual feature is the X-tail rudder configuration, the first Chinese submarine to use this layout, which improves manoeuvrability. It also appears to be equipped with a pump-jet propulsor, key for reducing noise-a feature already used on the Type 093B variant of the Shang-class.

NVIDIA RTX 50 Super, RTX 60 Launch Timing At Risk Amid Memory Shortage

February 22, 2026, 3:46 PM EST. NVIDIA is not releasing new consumer GeForce GPUs this year, according to two people with direct knowledge who spoke to The Information. An NVIDIA spokesperson said demand for RTX GPUs is strong and memory supply is constrained, but did not confirm delays. The DRAM shortage could threaten the rumored RTX 50 Super refresh and push focus toward the RTX 60 Series. The broader tech market faces console delays and other supply constraints. Some manufacturers tell users to 'bring your own RAM' or rent instead of owning hardware. Analysts estimate the shortage could last until 2028. Even as consumers feel the pinch, RAM and GPU makers report record earnings in enterprise and AI, shifting margins away from consumer devices.

Apple tests 'deep red' color for iPhone 18 Pro line and foldable iPhone, Gurman says

February 22, 2026, 3:42 PM EST. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports Apple is testing a deep red finish for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, potentially the first red option for the Pro line since the iPhone 14 and (PRODUCT)RED. He describes it as burgundy rather than bright red. Gurman also notes purple and brown are unlikely, seen as variants of the same red concept. For the foldable iPhone, Apple would stay with traditional space gray/black and silver/white finishes, with a September unveiling expected. The rumor adds to ongoing color-and-launch chatter ahead of launch.

Two quantum computing stocks that could make a millionaire

February 22, 2026, 3:40 PM EST. Quantum computing remains high risk, but two names offer distinct paths to potential upside. IonQ is the pure-play, gate-based quantum hardware leader, with a credible technical roadmap, hyperscale cloud distribution, and early workloads in pharma, materials, finance, logistics, and government work. Rigetti adopts a modular approach around superconducting tech, selling cloud access and physical systems via Cepheus-1 108Q and Novera units for on-prem use in labs and research facilities. Both rely on cloud access and real-world partnerships rather than pure demos. The upside depends on hitting roadmap milestones, securing durable funding, and winning contracts with government or industry. It's a venture-style bet, with execution risk and high volatility, not a core holding.

Tesla cuts Cybertruck price by $20,000 for 10 days

February 22, 2026, 3:38 PM EST. Tesla slashed the Cybertruck's entry price by roughly $20,000 from the Premium AWD, but Elon Musk signaled the cut may last only 10 days. The Dual Motor variant offers near-Premium AWD performance: 0-60 mph in about 4.1 seconds and an estimated 325 miles of range, with trade-offs such as 7,500-pound towing, 2,006-pound payload, smaller 18-inch wheels, and reduced interior features (seven-speaker audio, no air suspension, no rear touchscreen). The price lift remains well above the original sub-$40,000 promise, though it sits closer to rival EV pickups like the Silverado EV. Tesla's Q1 2026 outlook could hinge on any temporary price move, as the company shifts emphasis toward robotics and AI initiatives such as the Optimus project.

Suunto Vertical 2 tests rugged edge as Garmin faces competition in outdoor superwatch arena

February 22, 2026, 3:32 PM EST. TechRadar notes that the Suunto Vertical 2 builds on prior premium rugged wearables with a tougher bezel, a built-in flashlight, and new battery modes to extend off-grid use. It swaps a rotating crown for three physical buttons, a choice aimed at gloved hands and quick control. It offers offline maps, a digital compass, and smartphone notifications with a tethered phone. Suunto claims up to 250 hours of battery life in its most efficient GPS mode; real-world use depends on mode. Available as Stainless Steel (£529 / $599 / AU$999) or Titanium (£629 / $699 / AU$1,099). The watch nudges toward Garmin's Fenix 8 AMOLED in price and capability, signaling tighter competition in the outdoor superwatch segment.

Xbox to add 33 games next week, with several titles arriving via Game Pass

February 22, 2026, 3:30 PM EST. Microsoft's Xbox platform will welcome 33 new games next week, with several titles arriving via Game Pass. Notable releases include TCG Card Shop Simulator (Game Preview) on Tuesday, February 24, followed by Dice A Million on Xbox PC and No Sleep For Kaname Date – From AI: The Somnium Files, plus the full 1.0 release of Towerborne on Thursday, February 26. Capcom's Resident Evil Requiem lands on Friday, February 27. Other titles include Bread & Fred, Capy Spa, and the parody Dark Farts: Parody Smell Edition, among many others. The list underscores ongoing expansion of the Xbox library and the Game Pass catalog as players anticipate new experiences.

Apple weighs red as next premium iPhone Pro color, says Bloomberg

February 22, 2026, 3:24 PM EST. Apple is weighing a red colorway as the next premium option for its iPhone Pro line, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman said. The company is testing red as the flagship color for future Pro models, with purple and brown floated but likely variants of the same red shade. The move would echo the bold Cosmic Orange option-often called Hermès orange by fans-that has boosted sales in China. Red is seen as culturally lucky in China, where sales have benefited from flashier finishes. Apple has previously offered red iPhones in collaboration with Product Red, most recently the iPhone SE, iPhone 14 and 14 Plus. Gurman also noted the foldable iPhone would stay with safer, basic tones.

Android apps embrace Apple's Liquid Glass design, sparking frustration

February 22, 2026, 3:16 PM EST. Android Authority columnist Stephen Headrick notes a rising trend of Liquid Glass-style visuals appearing in Android apps, even when the platform's Material 3 Expressive system would favor vibrant theming. The author highlights Obsidian's latest UI-circular floating action buttons at top corners, a bottom floating bar, and restrained color-as leaning iOS rather than Android-native. He argues developers should offer Material You color theming to harmonize with the device, citing Gmail and Messages as examples of color-aware apps. He suggests concrete tweaks-rounding the top-bar buttons into a squashed circle, removing shadows-to better align with Android. The piece notes mixed reception among users (a small poll showing 43% say yes to Liquid Glass, 53% no) and mentions Telegram's recent overhaul as another test case. The author seeks a clearer distinction between platform conventions.

Agentic AI takes center stage as autonomous agents spread in business

February 22, 2026, 3:00 PM EST. Agentic AI, or autonomous AI agents, are semi- or fully autonomous systems that perceive, reason and act with limited human input. They integrate with other software to complete tasks without constant human prompting, unlike chatbots. MIT Sloan's Sinan Aral says the agentic AI age is already here, with agents deployed at scale. At CES 2025, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang called enterprise agents a multi-trillion-dollar opportunity across medicine and software engineering. A spring 2025 MIT Sloan Management Review and Boston Consulting Group survey found 35% had adopted AI agents by 2023, and 44% planned to deploy soon. Major vendors like Microsoft, Salesforce, Google and IBM are embedding agentic AI in their platforms. But experts warn of data quality, governance, trust and security risks and stress the need for a formal strategy and risk framework.

Apple TV failed to convert this user into an iOS fan

February 22, 2026, 2:58 PM EST. An Android user buys an Apple TV 4K for Dolby Atmos on Apple Music, enjoys the sound, but the device fails to lure him into an Apple-only life. The Apple TV replaces his Chromecast, yet gaps persist: losing the remote strips away phone-tracking, casting remains impossible, and Google Play purchases stay inaccessible on Apple hardware. He contemplates a broader Apple household but hesitates, citing e-waste and the cost of replacing multiple devices. He upgrades his phone to a Google Pixel 9a instead of an iPhone, and the anticipated switch never happens. The piece highlights how ecosystems entice but also deter migration when hardware, apps, and cross-service friction matter. Loyalty proves contingent on practicality, not brand allegiance.

Ultra-thin Tetris on a magazine cover embeds a flexible LED display

February 22, 2026, 2:46 PM EST. Red Bull Media House partnered with designer Kevin Bates to embed a playable Tetris game in a magazine cover. The GamePop GP-1 Playable Magazine System uses a custom matrix of 180 2mm RGB LEDs mounted on a flexible circuit board just 0.1mm thick. The display and coin-cell batteries sit inside the cover, which wraps around the magazine's pages to form a sleeve. The result is a handheld-like game that feels as if you're flipping through a paper magazine. Bates has a track record of pocket-sized, Tetris-playing devices, including the Arduboy and Arduboy Mini. While flexible displays exist in tablets and phones, this approach relies on thin, bonded circuits and careful engineering to survive bending and handling. The project showcases how portable gaming can emerge from everyday objects.

Android built-ins replace four popular apps, reducing the need for third-party tools

February 22, 2026, 2:28 PM EST. Android has matured. Built-in tools now handle what once drove users to third-party apps. In photo editing, Google Photos and Samsung Gallery offer advanced options-background blur, text, color tweaks, and AI features that remove objects or swap backgrounds-without ads, subscriptions or watermarks. For video, Android supports most common formats out of the box, and many phones include enhanced players with better controls. Meanwhile, many people turn to streaming apps like YouTube, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video for viewing, reducing the need for dedicated video players. Together, these changes push four popular apps to optional status as Android emphasizes integrated capabilities over external tools.

Apple set for at least five product launches in a three-day blitz, per Bloomberg

February 22, 2026, 2:26 PM EST. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says Apple will unveil at least five products, starting Monday, March 2, through its planned 'experience' on Wednesday, March 4. The lineup, though not confirmed by Apple, centers on a low-cost MacBook, a refresh likely linked to the event's color-themed logo. Gurman also expects an iPhone 17e, following last spring's model, and an updated iPad Air with the M4 chip. Rumors also point to a refreshed MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and Max chips, a new MacBook Air with base M5, and potential updates to the Mac Studio and Studio Display. The format is described as an Apple Experience with venues in New York, London, and Shanghai, not a traditional livestreamed keynote. Gurman notes Apple often reveals on Tuesdays, not Wednesdays.

Three tricks to give your phone photos a warm, analog film look

February 22, 2026, 2:16 PM EST. Phone photos can mirror an analog film look without new gear. Three tricks matter: 1) use a mist filter to soften details and add natural bloom; PolarPro's CineGold and CineBlack are common choices, mounted via a 63mm adapter such as Moment's QuickLock to fit most phones. 2) curb aggressive processing by the phone-dial back oversharpening and HDR tone to keep texture closer to film. 3) finish in a free editing app to tweak tones and add subtle grain for warmth. You don't need the latest device or specialized apps-just a small setup and a few minutes editing to achieve a retro, cinematic vibe.

AirPods 4 makeover: shorter stem, H2 chip, USB-C case, IP54, under $100

February 22, 2026, 2:14 PM EST. Apple's AirPods 4 get a visual and control refresh: a shorter stem for a cleaner look and faster, more reliable quick-press controls. The buds fit better and stay in place during workouts or commutes. They share technology with the Pro line, including an H2 chip, spatial audio, and a wireless charging case with a built-in speaker and USB-C port. A new Head Gestures feature lets you answer or decline calls with a simple head movement. The package carries IP54 dust, sweat and water resistance. They're selling under $100, a price rarely seen outside Prime Day or Black Friday.

Chinese researchers test polymer-based organic battery for EVs

February 22, 2026, 2:12 PM EST. Researchers in China report a polymer-based battery that substitutes cobalt and nickel with an organic material called PBFDO. In a Nature paper, Prof. Xun Yinhua of Tianjin University and Prof. Huang Fei of South China University of Technology describe pouch cells delivering about 250 Wh/kg, comparable to current EV chemistries. The organic cathode shows an unusually wide operating range-from -70°C to 80°C (-94°F to 176°F)-and survived harsh tests, including puncture, without smoke or fire. Because PBFDO is a polymer, the battery is flexible enough to bend or stretch, enabling novel packaging or integration into a vehicle frame. With materials sourced from abundant molecules rather than cobalt or nickel, the approach improves sustainability. The work is prototype stage but fits 2026 industry interest in safer, cheaper batteries alongside solid-state and sodium options.

Quantum and Games – The Shift Developers Can't Ignore

February 22, 2026, 2:02 PM EST. Quantum computing is reshaping game development, says Dr James Wootton, CSO at Moth, in a guest post. It won't run games in real time or replace a console, but it helps shape them earlier by solving complex problems more efficiently than classical machines. First use: explain quantum computing as systems that use quantum bits (qubits) to explore many possibilities at once. This lets developers test rules across an entire world, understand how interconnected mechanics behave, and pre-render materials and lighting without slow, mass testing. Practically, quantum tools already aid procedural generation, bug tracking, and new visuals, feeding results back into standard engines while games run on ordinary hardware. Fault-tolerant quantum systems are expected within a few years, aligning with AAA timelines; Space Moths demonstrates quantum-generated content in live multiplayer.

Pixel 10a price drop, Pixel 9a and Poco F8 Pro deals surface ahead of Pixel 10a launch

February 22, 2026, 1:56 PM EST. The Pixel 10a, unveiled this week, revisits the core specs of the Pixel 9a-a 6.3" 1080p+ display, the Tensor G4, and a 48+13MP camera-while raising charging speeds to 30W wired and 10W wireless and adding Satellite SOS in regions where supported. PixelSnap remains unsupported. After you buy and it ships, the Pixel 10a carries a €100 store credit. Options include the Pixel Buds 2a (ANC and spatial audio) and a Google silicone case with a bundled 67W charger. The older Pixel 10 stays a step up with a Tensor G5, more RAM, a dedicated telephoto, and starts around €700 for 256GB. The Poco F8 Pro is €500 with 12GB/512GB, a 6.59" display, 100W charging, and a strong camera.

Nvidia vs Alphabet: Which AI stock is best to buy now

February 22, 2026, 1:46 PM EST. Alphabet's Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) is emerging as a selective competitor to Nvidia's GPUs in AI workloads. Nvidia remains the dominant supplier for AI compute, with GPUs powering most workloads and broader use cases such as gaming, simulations, and crypto mining. Alphabet's TPUs, developed over a decade with Broadcom, excel in specific tasks and are accessed mainly through Google Cloud, limiting switching risk but also narrowing scope. Many clients pursue a mix of Nvidia GPUs and Alphabet TPUs to avoid vendor lock-in, benefiting both. Nvidia's revenue is heavily AI-driven, while Alphabet has broader non-AI businesses-Google Search, YouTube, and Google Cloud-that cushion risk if AI spending fluctuates. In valuation terms, Nvidia trades cheaper than Alphabet today, a rare setup given the dynamics of the two giants.

MacRumors Show previews Apple's March 4 Experience: iPhone 17e, MacBook upgrades

February 22, 2026, 1:42 PM EST. MacRumors' weekly show previews Apple's March 4 'Experience' in New York, London and Shanghai, a smaller in-person gathering ahead of a likely product push. Apple invites describe the session as an 'experience' rather than a full event. Expected announcements include iPhone 17e with an A19 chip and MagSafe, a lower-cost MacBook with an A18 Pro, 12.9-inch display, and new MacBook Pro chips (M5 Pro/Max) plus PCIe 5.0. Speculation also centers on a refreshed iPad Air with the M4, an entry-level iPad with A18, and updates to MacBook Air, Mac Studio, Studio Display, plus a new Apple TV and HomePod mini. Possible Vision Pro demo of immersive Formula 1 content adds flash. The show also notes iOS 26.4 beta with Playlist Playground, Apple Music refinements, and RCS messaging E2EE. Subscribe to The MacRumors Show for updates.

Apple tests deep red for iPhone 18 Pro; iPhone Fold colors lean toward basics

February 22, 2026, 1:40 PM EST. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports Apple is testing a new deep red color for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro, with the company sticking to an all-aluminum unibody since the iPhone 17 Pro. The existing Cosmic Orange remains popular, especially in China, and Gurman says Apple could keep both colors. Separately, Gurman says the next iPhone Fold will avoid "fun colors," likely reverting to dark gray/black and light-silver variants for manufacturing simplicity. The analyst notes this first fold device may follow a trend set by earlier models, where fewer color options simplified production. The piece poses consumer questions on whether to choose red or Fold when it ships in September.

Pokémon GO Week Ahead: Kalos Tour Global Event, Raid Hours and Spotlight

February 22, 2026, 1:32 PM EST. Pokémon GO fans get a busy week as the game winds toward the Kalos Tour Global event. The schedule runs Feb 23-Mar 1, with Lunala and Mega Absol rejoining the raid pool and a Mystery Max Monday featuring an unknown Dynamax Pokémon from 6-7 PM. Totodile headlines Spotlight Hour on Feb 24 with 2x Catch Stardust. Daily Raid Hours run every day, rotating seven-star and Primal raids in the build-up to Kalos. The Road to Kalos event repeats highlights from prior GO Tour events, with half hatch distance and rotating raids. The big payoff arrives Feb 28-Mar 1 with GO Tour Kalos Global, debuting Shiny Diancie, Mega Victreebel and Mega Malamar, plus new appearances like Shiny Klefki, Hawlucha, and Honedge.

Met Police pilots Palantir AI to flag officer misconduct

February 22, 2026, 1:28 PM EST. British police says Scotland Yard is piloting Palantir's AI to flag potential officer misconduct by analyzing internal data on sickness, absences and overtime. The Met previously refused to confirm use of Palantir tech but has now acknowledged a time-limited pilot designed to spot patterns in standards, culture and behaviour across its 46,000 staff. Palantir's software flags data-driven signals; frontline investigators then review and determine outcomes. The Police Federation, calling it "automated suspicion," warns opaque tools can misread workload or illness as wrongdoing and urges human supervision and fair processes. Met officials say correlations exist between elevated sickness or overtime and standards failings, but stress that officers make the final determinations. Politically, Palantir's links to UK public contracts and figures such as Mandelson have fuelled transparency calls.

Apple kicks off developer betas for iOS 26.4 family, hints of Siri upgrade

February 22, 2026, 1:24 PM EST. Apple has rolled out a new generation of developer betas across its software family: iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4 and macOS Tahoe 26.4. The releases follow the 26.3 cycle and come as the first builds for testing. Sizes vary widely, with some testers reporting about 8 GB downloads and others up to 18 GB. Build IDs include iOS 26.4 build 1 (23E5207q) replacing 23D125, and parallel updates for iPadOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS (26.34) and macOS Tahoe. Rumors and code references suggest a potential Siri upgrade, possibly linked to Google Gemini. AppleInsider cautions beta use on non-critical devices and notes public betas typically arrive after the developer releases.

Xbox President Sarah Bond to depart Microsoft, transition to successor Asha announced

February 22, 2026, 1:22 PM EST. Xbox President Sarah Bond is leaving Microsoft, according to a LinkedIn note she sent to her team. Bond said it's the right time to take her next step, personally and professionally, as the company advances cloud gaming, the next console, and a broader, cross-device platform. She noted the Activision Blizzard acquisition, announced in 2022, and said the team has navigated that moment together. Bond said she will be a Special Advisor to Asha to ensure a smooth transition. She thanked CEO Satya Nadella and gaming chief Phil Spencer for mentorship and sponsorship. The departure anticipates leadership change as Microsoft seeks fresh eyes to guide Xbox into its next chapter.

SpaceX booster sets record with 33rd flight on Starlink mission

February 22, 2026, 1:14 PM EST. SpaceX padded the record for the most-flown booster on its 33rd flight to space, launching a Falcon 9 with 28 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Space Launch Complex 40 at 10:47 p.m. local time. The first stage, first flown in June 2021, has driven SpaceX's reusability push toward a target of 40 flights and would surpass NASA's Space Shuttle Discovery with 39 missions if repeated. The booster has flown two crewed missions (Crew-3 and Crew-4), multiple ISS cargo flights, the Galileo satellite for the European Commission, and 21 Starlink missions, then landed on the drone ship, a sea landing platform, A Shortfall of Gravitas, in the Atlantic. Refurbishment takes longer than quick turnarounds; this booster last flew about 2.5 months ago.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 44mm: Wear OS, health sensors and a refined design

February 22, 2026, 1:06 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Watch 4 44mm runs Wear OS powered by Samsung, delivering broader access to apps from the Google Play Store, smoother performance and tighter integration with Android devices, notably Samsung smartphones. The 44mm case strikes a balance between readability and comfort, featuring an Armor Aluminum chassis and a bright circular display. A touch-sensitive rotating bezel replaces a physical bezel, easing navigation around apps and notifications. Personalization is strong, with a range of watch faces. On health, the watch adds ECG, blood oxygen (SpO2) monitoring and body composition analysis for a holistic view of wellbeing, appealing to fitness enthusiasts and casual wearers alike. The device aims to compete on design, battery life and app ecosystem while prioritizing fitness tracking and notifications.

Computer History Museum unveils oversized 'Big Mac' Macintosh Plus for Apple at 50 celebration

February 22, 2026, 1:00 PM EST. Mountain View, California – The Computer History Museum is teasing a comically large-scale replica dubbed the Big Mac, a Macintosh Plus from 1986. The display emphasizes a keyboard dwarfed by the all-in-one, a reminder that modern screens dominate design. The museum says it recently acquired the oversized unit for exhibition, likely built for demos. The reveal ties into its Apple at 50 celebrations starting in March. The original Macintosh Plus used a Motorola 68000 CPU and offered 1MB RAM (expandable to 4MB with four 30-pin SIMMs), an 800KB floppy drive, and a SCSI port. It shipped with a 9-inch monochrome CRT at 512 x 342 pixels. The display shows a 58-key keyboard, model M0110A, next to a tiny screen. Price then: $2,599 (about $7,500 today).

Suunto Vertical review: precise navigation, rugged design, bike-ready features

February 22, 2026, 12:34 PM EST. Suunto's Vertical Titanium solar model, priced at £625, relocates the brand's outdoors focus into a smartwatch format. The device targets mountaineers and cyclists, offering a dual-band GPS/GNSS system that supports five satellite networks and Waymarking for easier route tracking. Reviewers praise the navigation as accurate and easy to read on the bright AMOLED display, with maps packed full of detail yet clear in use. Routes must be planned in advance via the companion app, a step that gives control but adds setup time. The watch aims to blend rugged adventure credentials with everyday activity tracking, positioning it as an alternative to bike computers or multisport wearables, though its strongest appeal is among serious outdoor enthusiasts.

Uber CEO's AV forecast tempers Tesla optimism, targets 2029 leadership

February 22, 2026, 12:18 PM EST. Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi says by 2029 Uber will be the largest facilitator of autonomous-vehicle trips, but AVs are likely to remain a small portion of ridesharing for many years. The stance dents the optimism around Tesla stock, which hinges on a world-spanning robotaxi fleet. Uber, the ride-hailing leader with 202 million monthly active users and 3.8 billion trips in Q4, benefits from a massive user base and network effects. It was operating in seven AV markets at year-end and plans eight more cities in 2026. By contrast, Tesla's robotaxi push remains limited to Austin and the Bay Area amid technical, regulatory, and safety hurdles. Investors get a fresh view on the pace of AV deployment and the relative risk to Tesla's valuation.

Nintendo refunds Xenoblade Chronicles X Switch 2 upgrade amid quality concerns

February 22, 2026, 12:12 PM EST. Nintendo has begun offering refunds to customers who requested a return for the Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition upgrade on the Nintendo Switch 2, multiple YouTube videos indicate. The reports describe the upgrade as visually worse than the original, citing texture issues and questionable upscaling methods. It is not clear which studio produced the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. Nintendo did not immediately respond to requests for comment. For affected players, Nintendo Support is the recommended channel to seek a refund or discuss options. The move aligns with consumer-satisfaction concerns tied to console-era remasters, but the company has not publicly detailed the scope of the refunds or the criteria used to determine eligibility.

Apple leans on external AI partners with modest 2026 capex, reshaping the race

February 22, 2026, 12:10 PM EST. Apple plans about $14 billion in 2026 capital expenditure, far smaller than rivals projected to deploy nearly $700 billion on AI infrastructure. The strategy favors partnerships over building in-house compute, allowing Apple to swap providers as the tech advances. It has moved Siri improvements from OpenAI to Alphabet's Gemini, aligning with privacy goals and avoiding lock-in. With more than $130 billion in cash, Apple reduces urgency to spend and eases any potential hit to its balance sheet if AI revenues lag. By contrast, rivals such as Amazon, Microsoft, Meta and Alphabet pour money into data centers and chips, betting on scalable AI vs. a lean, services-led approach.

Apple to unveil at least five products ahead of March 4 event, per Bloomberg

February 22, 2026, 12:08 PM EST. Apple plans a three-day flurry of announcements ahead of a March 4 in-person experience, Bloomberg reports. The schedule runs March 2-4, with no traditional keynote, and releases expected via press notes and launch videos. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says at least five products will debut, spanning hardware, software and chips. Hardware likely includes a low-cost MacBook, hinted by invite graphics; Gurman warns launching both the Mac Studio and Studio Display could be overkill. Supply constraints are noted for iPhone 16e, M3 iPad Air, M4 MacBook Air and M4 Pro/Max MacBook Pro, suggesting updates are imminent. The slate may include software and chips in addition to hardware.

Quantum Tera: Exploring the Next Leap in Quantum Computing

February 22, 2026, 12:06 PM EST. Quantum Tera piece explains the basics: quantum computers use qubits that can be in superposition and exhibit entanglement, enabling parallel calculations that explore many possibilities. This could outperform classical machines on certain tasks, including drug design, breaking some encryption, and tackling complex optimization problems. The Tera in Quantum Tera signals scale rather than a fixed count, indicating unprecedented processing power and the potential to solve problems with new levels of accuracy and speed. The article notes profound implications for medicine and personalized treatments, while acknowledging early-stage tech challenges and ongoing research.

Iran considers permanent split from global internet, activists say

February 22, 2026, 12:04 PM EST. Activists say Iran is pursuing a permanent split from the global internet, turning access into a government privilege and rolling out a whitelisted online environment. Under the plan, Iranians with security clearance or government checks would access a filtered version of the internet; everyone else would be confined to a national internet that is cut off from the wider world. State signaling suggests the shift could be permanent after 2026, with officials warning unrestricted access may not return. Iran's shutdown since January follows a 16-year campaign to tighten control, aided by a censorship system and technology used to monitor traffic. Researchers say the move relies on hardware like high-capacity middleboxes and tools from researchers such as Project Ainita and Outline Foundation. The change would carry major economic and cultural consequences.

Iran mulls permanent split from global internet, activists say

February 22, 2026, 12:00 PM EST. Iran plans to permanently sever access to the global internet, giving only vetted users a filtered link to the world while others would remain on a national intranet. The plan, reported by Filterwatch citing Iranian sources, portrays international access as a governmental privilege. State media have signaled a permanent shift, with unrestricted access unlikely after 2026. The move comes as Iran's 8 January shutdown enters its second month amid protests and a heavy crackdown. Experts say the idea is plausible but costly, with wide economic and cultural implications. Iran would rely on a whitelisting system (only approved sites/users) and middleboxes (devices that inspect traffic) to monitor and control traffic. Tech from China could help scale this, potentially shaping a web environment around the Nowruz holiday.

QDX's EXESS ultrafast quantum chemistry engine speeds up drug discovery and materials research

February 22, 2026, 11:56 AM EST. QDX says its Extreme-scale Electronic Structure System (EXESS) can perform more than 1 quintillion calculations per second and runs 3,000-4,000 times faster than many quantum chemistry packages. The software targets drug discovery and materials science, enabling large-molecule simulations on conventional hardware without quantum computers. The team attributes the speed to multiple optimizations across components, including molecular fragmentation, which splits a problem into fragments, runs them in parallel and reassembles results. CEO Loong Wang told Live Science that what would normally take a month can be reduced to about 12 minutes in some cases. The claims hinge on institutional demonstrations and company materials; independent validation remains pending.

Quantum risk to Bitcoin could expose up to 7 million BTC, including Satoshi's 1 million

February 22, 2026, 11:54 AM EST. A rising quantum threat could imperil about 7 million Bitcoin, including roughly 1 million attributed to Satoshi Nakamoto, with a current value near $67.6 billion. CryptoQuant founder Ki Young Ju says about 6.98 million BTC could be exposed in a sufficiently advanced quantum attack, equaling roughly $440 billion at today's prices. The risk isn't uniform: early Bitcoin addresses stored full public keys on-chain via P2PK; modern addresses reveal only a hash until spent; if quantum computers could reverse keys, those UTXOs could be at risk. Debates surface over whether freezing or reassigning coins would breach neutrality, versus upgrading cryptography and enabling voluntary migration to quantum-resistant signatures. Some, like Paolo Ardoino of Tether, argue that lost coins could reenter circulation with only temporary inflationary effects.

QDX unveils EXESS quantum chemistry engine, promises ultrafast drug discovery simulations

February 22, 2026, 11:52 AM EST. QDX on Tuesday unveiled EXESS, the Extreme-scale Electronic Structure System, a quantum chemistry engine the company says can perform more than 1 quintillion calculations per second. The system, which runs on conventional hardware, is claimed to be 3,000-4,000 times faster than many existing packages and capable of tackling large molecules such as proteins. QDX founder Loong Wang argues the speed gains could make drug discovery and materials research practical by accelerating simulations of how drugs bind to targets and how molecular properties emerge. The improvements come not from quantum hardware but from optimizing components and algorithms, including molecular fragmentation and parallel execution, enabling many steps to run concurrently rather than sequentially. Some calculations that would take a month now take about 12 minutes.

Apple bets on AI partnerships as rivals pour hundreds of billions into data centers

February 22, 2026, 11:48 AM EST. Apple is betting on partnerships rather than massive proprietary AI infrastructure. In 2026, Apple plans about $14 billion in capex, compared with rivals-Amazon, Microsoft, Meta and Alphabet-spending roughly $650 billion combined. Apple has around $130 billion in cash and generated substantial shareholder returns, signaling financial flexibility. The company is shifting its AI strategy from in-house model development toward integrating third-party technologies, first with OpenAI for Siri and later with Alphabet's Gemini, preserving privacy and avoiding vendor lock-in. By treating foundational AI as a commodity, Apple aims to optimize user experience across iPhone, Mac and services rather than chase massive compute power. Rivals' heavy investments in data centers could strain their balance sheets if AI revenue lags.

Quantum risk threatens about 7 million BTC, including Satoshi's 1 million, analysts say

February 22, 2026, 11:44 AM EST. Analysts warn that a future quantum attack could expose nearly 7 million Bitcoin. About 1 million BTC attributed to Satoshi Nakamoto could become vulnerable, worth roughly $67.6 billion at current prices. Overall, roughly 6.98 million BTC may be at risk in a sufficiently advanced quantum scenario, equating to about $440 billion. The risk stems from older on-chain usage where public keys were exposed; modern addresses hide keys until spent, but early reveal could be reversed. Debates split on how to respond: preserve Bitcoin's neutral protocol versus potential intervention to freeze or migrate coins. Some argue for upgrading cryptography and promoting voluntary migration to quantum-resistant signatures rather than changing ownership rules; others favor non-intervention, seeing code as law.

Website Fails to Load Without JavaScript, Prompting Client Troubleshooting

February 22, 2026, 11:40 AM EST. An online client portal displayed a 'JavaScript is disabled' prompt, preventing the page from loading. The message points to common culprits: browser extensions, ad blockers, or network settings that block scripts. In practice, users are told to enable JavaScript, disable conflicting ad blockers, verify their network settings, or try a different browser. The incident underlines how many modern sites rely on client-side code to render content and functionality. Tech teams say such blockers can mask legitimate features and slow onboarding. Resolving it often involves checking browser permissions, whitelisting trusted sites, and retesting across devices. Clear, actionable guidance reduces downtime and preserves user trust during routine maintenance or security changes.

Apple's next Macs could check every box with touchscreen Pro, budget MacBook and OLED/Ultra Retina upgrades

February 22, 2026, 11:36 AM EST. Macworld reports Apple is lining up a busy 2026 for Macs, including a touchscreen MacBook Pro believed to launch in late 2026 and a budget MacBook possibly arriving March 4. The rumors say the Pro model will sport Ultra Retina XDR-like panels, M6 Pro/Max chips and Apple's own cellular modems, addressing calls for touch input and built-in connectivity. Separately, Apple is said to move MacBook displays toward OLED, following the iPad Pro's Ultra Retina XDR tech. The push aims to broaden the laptop lineup and reach price-conscious buyers, with a sub-$600 entry model touted.

Tesla Robotaxi Could Reach $250 Billion by 2035, but Risks Remain

February 22, 2026, 11:34 AM EST. Wolfe Research analyst Emmanuel Rosner forecasts that Robotaxi could generate about $250 billion in revenue by 2035. His model splits the ride-hailing market into 30% autonomous and 70% human-driven, with Tesla capturing 50% of robotaxi activity. At roughly $1 per mile, the forecast signals an equity value near $2.75 trillion for Tesla. The thesis hinges on multiple assumptions and remains highly sensitive to adoption timing. Key risks: the total addressable market could be smaller than modeled; autonomous tech must scale; consumer uptake is uncertain. Tesla would face heavy R&D and capex, pressuring margins and free cash flow until scale. Some investors may already price in AI upside, tempering upside surprises if reality lags.

Space Coast set for 12 orbital launches in 2026, led by SpaceX

February 22, 2026, 11:32 AM EST. The Space Coast is on track for about 12 orbital launches in 2026, led by SpaceX's Falcon 9 and a single ULA flight using the Vulcan rocket. Blue Origin is not listed for 2026. One planned human flight is Crew-12. The cadence mirrors a busy 2025, when 109 orbital launches were logged between Cape Canaveral and KSC, with SpaceX delivering most via Falcon 9. The outlook includes NASA's Artemis II atop the Space Launch System (SLS), NASA's heavy-lift rocket. Upcoming missions include Starlink rides from Space Launch Complex 40. Data remain subject to change as launch windows shift and vehicles roll to flight.

Long Beach to pilot AI review of 911 calls to boost quality assurance

February 22, 2026, 11:30 AM EST. Long Beach will pilot an AI program to review 911 calls, aiming to score dispatcher performance across 600,000 annual calls. The project, called CommsCoach AI from GovWorx, can assess 100% of calls, surpassing the previous manual sampling of 2% for quality assurance. The city has a $68,000-a-year contract through February 2028 and says the tool will rate professionalism, tone, clarifying questions and judgment, with flagged calls reviewed by supervisors for coaching. City officials stress the system won't replace dispatchers and note privacy protections, including HIPAA compliance and data staying within the city's secure system. The effort is in a pilot phase, with broader deployment under consideration.

Nvidia poised for big move after Feb. 25 earnings; investors monitor AI GPU demand

February 22, 2026, 11:28 AM EST. Nvidia is seen likely to beat Wall Street on the Q4 report due Feb. 25, with consensus revenue at about $65.6 billion and EPS around $1.52. The company has a history of beating estimates, and demand for its AI GPUs and the CUDA ecosystem remains strong as hyperscalers expand AI platforms. Management has signaled progress toward the Blackwell and Rubin architectures and a long-term view of $500 billion in revenue through 2026 and $3-4 trillion in AI infrastructure spend through 2030. Valuation remains elevated-roughly 24x trailing sales and 46x earnings-with a low forward PEG of 0.15. A healthy report could drive a rally, but any signs of slowing growth may press the stock despite a solid quarter.

Meta's AI push could lift Nvidia as 2026 capex climbs

February 22, 2026, 11:24 AM EST. Meta Platforms plans to raise 2026 capex to $115-$135 billion, funding its Superintelligence Labs and core operations. On Feb. 17, it unveiled a multiyear, multigenerational partnership with Nvidia to build AI infrastructure, deploying Grace CPUs, millions of Blackwell and Rubin GPUs, and Ethernet switches in its hyperscale data centers for AI training and inference. Meta says Vera Rubin chips will power its personal superintelligence platform, with Nvidia claiming cost cuts in AI inference and a smaller GPU footprint for training. The deal complements Nvidia's backlog and a TSMC capacity expansion in 2026. Analysts look for Nvidia revenue up about 53% in fiscal 2027 to $327 billion, with earnings up about 65% this year to $7.75.

Tesla accelerates EV push with $20 billion capex, defying retreat from the market

February 22, 2026, 11:22 AM EST. Tesla management outlined a $20 billion capital spending program that includes a lithium refinery in Corpus Christi, Texas; a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery plant in Sparks, Nevada; and a Texas Gigafactory to start Cybercab production. The plan signals a continued, not a retreat from EVs, even as critics argue Elon Musk is chasing robotaxi and other AI ventures. Legacy automakers have faced delays and multibillion-dollar writedowns in robotaxi bets, with Ford and GM restructuring away from those plans; GM abandoned robotaxi in 2024. In the market, Tesla holds about 46% of U.S. EV sales, while GM trails at roughly 13%, a gap that could narrow if strategy shifts. Tesla is expanding lower-cost variants of the Model Y and Model 3 and scaling output to support a broader EV ecosystem, not abandoning it.

Dell prebuilt uses fixed 12V-2×6 connector to curb 16-pin power meltdown risk

February 22, 2026, 11:08 AM EST. Dell's EBT2250 prebuilt, reviewed in Japan, fixes the 12V-2×6 power plug to prevent looseness that can trigger overheating on 12VHPWR-style GPUs. The Amphenol metal fitting bolts the connector in place, while the actual GPU power is delivered via an adapter to two standard 8-pin PCIe plugs. Dell's 1000W LITEON PSU appears non-native to ATX 3.0/3.1, hence the bolted adapter. The RTX 5070 Ti inside is OEM-branded and not power-limited by its card design, but Dell also adds a sag bracket for the GPU. The broader point: even large OEMs still pursue mechanical fixes as 12V-2×6/12VHPWR overheating episodes persist.

Seedance 2 AI video tool by ByteDance sparks Hollywood copyright concerns

February 22, 2026, 10:52 AM EST. A new AI program called Seedance 2, developed by ByteDance, has ignited a debate in Hollywood this week. The system can generate high-quality videos with voices and blend text, images, and sound into short clips. Clips featuring famous characters such as Spider-Man and Darth Vader circulated online, prompting claims of copyright infringement by Disney, Paramount and others. Industry observers say the tool marks a new chapter in AI-assisted video production but raise questions about licensing and rights. Jan-Wilhelm Blom of Videosteait said it initially looked like real film, noting the fusion of content with voice as a standout. David Cook of Tiny Island Productions called outputs convincing, while experts warn about unlicensed content and the need for clear rights and licensing frameworks.

U.S. reveals Global South AI strategy at India summit, linking Pax Silica to an AI exports stack

February 22, 2026, 10:44 AM EST. At New Delhi's AI summit-the largest to date and the first in the Global South-the United States quietly mapped a two-part playbook to steer AI adoption abroad. The first pillar, Pax Silica, ties cooperation on critical minerals, semiconductors, energy and data-center infrastructure to economic resilience, with officials framing it as a national-security project. The second pillar, an AI exports stack, aims to push the American AI ecosystem globally through financing, standards-setting and deployment help. Officials described the effort as non-symbolic and strategic, linking it to broader US-India trade, technology and defense coordination. The plan surfaces as domestic politics tilt inward and as Washington seeks to set the rules of AI leadership on the world stage.

Cloudflare six-hour outage linked to internal config error affecting BYOIP prefixes

February 22, 2026, 10:42 AM EST. Cloudflare suffered a six-hour global outage on Feb. 20, 2026, after an internal configuration update withdrew BGP routes for BYOIP prefixes, making services unreachable. The disruption began at 17:48 UTC and lasted 6 hours, 7 minutes. Cloudflare said the fault stemmed from an internal bug in its Addressing API during an automated cleanup task under the Code Orange: Fail Small resilience program, not a cyberattack. The error deleted about 1,100 BYOIP prefixes and their bindings, triggering BGP Path Hunting as end users' connections searched for routes. The blast radius hit core offerings that rely on BYOIP, including the CDN, Spectrum, Dedicated Egress, and Magic Transit. Recovery was slow because prefixes varied; some customers could re-advertise routes to regain connectivity.

infoCorvus Unifies Data Governance and AI Enablement at Scale with ROAD Platform

February 22, 2026, 10:38 AM EST. infoCorvus says its ROAD platform unifies data ingestion, migration, governance and AI enablement into a single, governed architecture, letting enterprises modernize while maintaining control over live and historical data. CEO Ali Elkortobi says ROAD lets AI become an asset, not a liability, by governing data first. In a real-world test, a large global manufacturer with 200 billion rows of data and 100 million rows archived monthly adopted ROAD for performance, governance and simplicity, with full auditability, lineage and policy enforcement across active and retired environments. The Governed AI Bridge enforces access, decision rights and evidence at execution time, ensuring AI uses only approved data. The platform reduces complexity, lowers costs, and strengthens risk management for safe AI at scale.

Altman rebuts AI water-use fears; urges nuclear and renewables to power rising energy needs

February 22, 2026, 10:32 AM EST. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman told The Indian Express event that worries about AI water use are unfounded, noting evaporative cooling is largely a thing of the past. He said online claims of '17 gallons per query' are inaccurate and that the real concern is total energy consumption as AI grows. Altman urged a rapid shift to nuclear or wind-and-solar power, while noting no legal requirement for firms to disclose energy or water data and calling for independent studies. He argued a fair comparison is energy used to answer a query after training versus the energy a human uses to learn. The interview followed Altman's visit to an AI summit in India and included references to a chat with Bill Gates.

Apple aims to keep iPhone 18 Pro prices flat vs iPhone 17 Pro despite higher costs

February 22, 2026, 10:14 AM EST. Apple aims to keep the starting price of the iPhone 18 Pro roughly in line with the iPhone 17 Pro despite higher component costs, according to industry checks. MacRumors cites GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu, who says supply-chain work shows Apple is prioritizing cost management ahead of a September debut for the 18 lineup. While components like the proposed A20 Pro chip-built on a 2-nanometer process-could lift costs, Apple is negotiating better deals on memory chips with Samsung and SK Hynix and exploring cuts in displays and cameras. Analysts including Ming-Chi Kuo say Apple could tolerate thinner margins to protect market share, potentially offset by increased subscription services revenue. The 17 Pro starts at $1,099 in the U.S., with the 17 Pro Max at $1,199.

Tom's Guide readers wear older Apple Watch models, poll finds

February 22, 2026, 10:04 AM EST. Tom's Guide polled 6,458 readers about which Apple Watch they wear. The leading choice was Apple Watch Series 10 or older with 1,949 votes (about 30%). The Apple Watch Series 11 drew 1,697 votes. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 accounted for 14% (897 votes), while Apple Watch Ultra 1/2 had 777 votes (12%). The Apple Watch SE 3 earned 672 votes (10%), and Apple Watch SE/SE 2022 racked up 466 votes (7%). Taken together, more than 80% prefer the flagship or Ultra lines over the entry level SE family. The poll underscores readers' tendency to hold older flagship hardware or opt for premium hardware rather than annual upgrades.

Google tightens Android, Google Play security in 2025 with record bans and Play Protect upgrades

February 22, 2026, 9:56 AM EST. Google published its annual Android and Google Play security review, detailing measures to curb malware, fraud and privacy risks. In 2025, it prevented 1.75 million policy-violating apps from publishing on Google Play and banned more than 80,000 bad developer accounts. Google Play runs over 10,000 safety checks per app, with ongoing post-publish verification. Play Protect now scans over 350 billion Android apps daily. Enhanced fraud protection, triggered when sideloading sources request sensitive permissions, expanded to 185 markets covering about 2.8 billion devices, blocking 266 million risky installation attempts and protecting 872,000 high-risk apps. An in-call scam protection feature aims to stop users from disabling defenses during calls. Developers receive integrated insights to build safer apps faster.

Australia's AI-in-schools rollout: chatbots quiz students, sparking equity concerns

February 22, 2026, 9:52 AM EST. In some Australian schools, an AI-driven chatbot interrogates students about their work, turning essays into two-way checks of understanding. Advocates say it curbs plagiarism and sustains thinking, while preserving the human element. Hills Christian Community School in the Adelaide Hills blends AI with sensors, drones and coding to study ecosystems, and Meta AI glasses help students with disabilities access explanations aloud without disrupting lessons. But uptake is uneven. The Independent Schools Australia warns a nationwide, equity-focused path (ensuring equal access) is needed to avoid a two-speed system, urging a national, sector-blind AI pilot and ethical guidelines for AI use. TALIS data show rising teacher use of AI, yet access remains tied to geography and resources, risking widening gaps.

Exclusive: Teen AI founders power startups, attracting capital and attention

February 22, 2026, 9:46 AM EST. Teenagers are increasingly founding AI-driven startups as investors chase the next wave of automation. Industry insiders describe a shift from novelty to a viable career path. Y Combinator last year opened an early-acceptance track for founders still in college, while Z Fellows admits teens with no age floor. In Florida, 19-year-old Pranjali Awasthi has started two ventures: Delv AI, which summarizes and analyzes documents, and Slashy, an AI email assistant backed by Y Combinator. Awasthi dropped out of high school at 16 and moved to San Francisco after a stint at Georgia Tech. She and her cofounders – Harsha Gaddipati, 21, and Dhruv Roongta, 20 – live together while building. Insiders say these teens are a driving force in the AI economy, shaping capital flows and career paths.

Best Electric Toothbrushes for Sensitive Teeth

February 22, 2026, 9:42 AM EST. Across tests of dozens of models, the article weighs comfort, plaque reduction, and overall value. The Philips Sonicare 4100 is praised for milder sonic vibrations, a two-minute timer, and BrushSync head-tracking, with about two weeks of battery life. It shuts off at the timer, a contrast to some oscillating designs. The Oral-B Pro 1000 remains a strong budget pick; other models target kids or sustainability, such as the Suri 2.0. For readers with sensitive teeth or retainers, narrower heads and gentler modes help prevent overbrushing while still delivering clean margins. The bottom line: a quality electric toothbrush can reduce plaque and gingivitis, reinforce the two-minute routine, and offer meaningful savings versus frequent dental visits, at multiple price points.

Windows Task Manager creator unveils retro-futuristic Tempest AI dashboard on GitHub

February 22, 2026, 9:28 AM EST. Dave Plummer, who created the original Windows Task Manager, shared a retro-futuristic dashboard for his Tempest AI project, noting it shows what Task Manager might look like today if he were still at Microsoft. The concept, shown on X and tied to Tempest AI's GitHub page, features RGB accents, speedometer gauges and a rolling soundtrack. It is not meant to run in production; Plummer warned it uses significant GPU resources-about 75% of a GPU at 30 fps on his M2 Mac Pro. The piece nods to Task Manager's history-from its Windows NT roots to the 2000 components and the 2022 Windows 11 redesign; Microsoft updated RAM units from MHz to MT/s in May 2024. Enthusiasts see it as a playful what-if amid Windows bugs.

Hollywood fights AI video generators; photographers watch the rights debate unfold

February 22, 2026, 9:22 AM EST. Hollywood's unions and studios are mobilizing against AI video generators that imitate film scenes. SAG-AFTRA, the MPA, Disney, Warner Bros. and NBCUniversal argue these tools threaten intellectual property and labor. Photographers, by contrast, lack comparable bargaining power; there is no industry-wide body to counter AI as strong as Hollywood's. ByteDance's Seedance 2.0 has unsettled industry watchers after a viral video of Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise fighting surfaced. Disney has sent a cease-and-desist, while also striking a separate deal with OpenAI to train on its IP for Sora, reflecting broader US-China AI geopolitics. The likely outcome, if Hollywood prevails, is stricter use of likeness and training data payments; photographers seek similar protections, while audiences weigh the quality of AI-driven content.

Galaxy S26 Ultra leak shows six interactive wallpapers and color options

February 22, 2026, 9:12 AM EST. A new leak shows six interactive wallpapers for the Galaxy S26 series, expanding beyond static images surfaced earlier with One UI 8.5. Samsung takes a restrained approach, avoiding the aggressive parallax seen on rivals. The wallpapers respond to touch and to the unlock gesture on the lock screen, then switch to a static home screen to keep the UI fast. A prominent 'Interactive' label in the wallpaper editor signals the feature is a first-class part of One UI 8.5, not an Easter egg. ProjectCipher's Telegram video captures the editor and confirms the live interface. Samsung says this avoids animation overhead and battery drain by keeping interactivity on the lock screen. The six wallpapers reinforce official color options; more coverage is planned by SammyFans as One UI 8.5 evolves.

NoiseFit Pro 6R review: AI-powered smartwatch with round AMOLED display under Rs 8,000

February 22, 2026, 9:08 AM EST. NoiseFit Pro 6R lands in India at Rs 6,999 to Rs 7,999 for the metal strap. The round 42mm chassis packs a 1.46-inch AMOLED display that stays readable outdoors, with a rotating crown and an extra button for quick navigation. It includes built-in GPS with Strava integration and Noise's touted AI Pro features for smarter health insights, watch-face generation, and easier controls. In daily use, notifications, heart-rate and sleep tracking work smoothly; the battery stretches to about 5-6 days with typical use, charging in roughly two hours. Health tracking covers HR, SpO2, stress, sleep, and menstrual cycle; guided workouts add beginner-friendly prompts. Overall, the Pro 6R is well-equipped for its price, if AI features meet daily needs.

Poco M8 5G review: solid budget phone with big display, long battery

February 22, 2026, 8:58 AM EST. The Poco M8 5G positions itself as a value-focused successor in the Poco line. It sticks to the familiar formula: solid build, a large, bright display, and a midrange chipset that avoids higher-priced headaches. Equipped with a Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4 nm) and multiple RAM/storage options, it can handle daily tasks and light gaming. The 6.77-inch AMOLED panel runs at 120Hz with HDR support. A 5520mAh battery powers the phone, with 45W wired charging and 18W reverse charging. The camera setup includes a 50 MP main sensor; video tops out at 4K/30fps. Overall, it offers expandable storage, 5G, and Android 15 with HyperOS 2. EU packaging omits a charger, matching regulatory drift. The battery may be the standout weakness but stays competitive for the price.

Xiaomi expands beyond Android phones into EVs, wearables and smart home devices

February 22, 2026, 8:56 AM EST. Xiaomi is well known for affordable Android phones, but the company has diversified far beyond handsets. Founded in China in 2010, it built its brand with MIUI, an Android skin introduced in 2010, and has since shifted to its own platform, HyperOS, launched in 2023. The firm now sells in four product categories: wearables, smart home devices, laptops, and lifestyle gadgets such as toothbrushes and hair dryers. It has also moved into electric vehicles (EVs), aiming at the top EV brands alongside Rivian and Tesla. Xiaomi ranks among the world's top smartphone makers, often placing third after Apple and Samsung, according to Counterpoint Research. It remains a global player despite not selling phones in the United States.

Flashback One35 V2 Review: A chaotic, pocketable digital camera

February 22, 2026, 8:54 AM EST. Australian startup Flashback markets the One35 V2 as a digital, non-disposable camera that fuses nostalgia with pocketable design. Priced at just over $100 and weighing little, it slips into most pockets. The camera uses the Flashback app to manage battery life, film shots left, and four film simulations: #flashbackclassic, #flashbackmono, #flashbackbeta, and #flashbackcine. Control is minimal: a wind-on, shutter, and flash, with no rear screen. Users decide between Film Camera Mode (24-hour photo delay) or Digicam Mode (instant viewing after transfer). The app can crash on iPhone 16, and viewing photos is smoother when downloaded. The device offers 27 shots per roll and aims to offer an antidote to perfection in a debate about photography aesthetics between generations.

Japan's NICT hits light-speed internet, 4 million times faster than conventional networks

February 22, 2026, 8:52 AM EST. Tokyo-based researchers from Japan's National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) claim a breakthrough in light-based data transmission, delivering 125,000 GB/s over 1,120 miles. The 1.02 petabits figure would let the entire Internet Archive be downloaded in about four minutes. The findings, published in 2025, highlight a shift beyond conventional internet toward light-based and potentially quantum data communications. The team attributes the milestone to a new type of optical fiber and advanced signal techniques. If reproducible, the result could reshape global data-center architectures and long-haul networks, stressing the need for upgraded infrastructure as demand for AI, education, health and finance soars. The advance marks a notable step toward an intelligent age of connectivity.

Walmart's AI push drives faster delivery, CFO says

February 22, 2026, 8:48 AM EST. Walmart CFO outlined the company's AI push, led by Sparky, its in-house shopping platform rolled out last quarter. About half of app users engage with Sparky, and those shoppers show roughly 35% higher basket size due to more contextual, personalized search. The speed story focuses on fulfillment: Walmart uses its 5,000 stores as distribution nodes to deliver items in under 30 minutes in many cases. Moving from a two-day to one-day promise, and from one-day to same-day, correlates with higher conversions, the CFO said. The remarks frame Walmart as a tech-enabled retailer, using AI to improve both the shopping experience and delivery velocity.

Gerber questions FSD progress, hints hardware tweaks amid Tesla robotaxi crashes

February 22, 2026, 8:44 AM EST. Investor Ross Gerber says Tesla's vision-based FSD may need hardware adjustments after five additional robotaxi crashes in Austin last month. In a post on X, he argued the system isn't getting better and that many investors are still waiting for unsupervised FSD capabilities. He said it's possible Tesla needs hardware changes, and he floated LiDAR as a possible addition alongside competing AVs. The remarks come as a Tesla owner posted videos of FSD driving onto a boat ramp while both parties ran version 14.2.2.4. CEO Elon Musk remains bullish on self-driving, and Tesla has also shown a production-ready Cybercab with no steering wheel or pedals, underscoring ongoing bets on autonomy.

Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra and the 6G pricing shift as 2nm chips push costs higher

February 22, 2026, 8:40 AM EST. Rising costs for top-tier smartphone chips are reshaping flagship pricing. The trend comes as memory shortages and complex 2nm production raise component bills. Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series, built on second-generation 2nm nodes from TSMC and Samsung Foundry, illustrates the shift. The line includes a standard model and the Pro variant, which adds LPDDR6 memory, larger caches and stronger GPUs-pricing that widens the gap to ultra-premium devices. Analysts expect a tiered strategy: base and mid-range phones use the standard chip, while the Pro stays reserved for flagship rows. The Galaxy S27 Ultra is rumored to adopt the Pro, signaling a higher price floor even as consumers weigh incremental upgrades. The 6G-era horizon remains aspirational amid tighter budgets.

T-Mobile Tops JD Power 2025 U.S. Wireless Home Internet Satisfaction Study

February 22, 2026, 8:38 AM EST. T-Mobile is ranked top in JD Power's 2025 U.S. Residential Internet Service Provider Satisfaction Study for wireless home internet. The survey, based on thousands of responses from August 2024 through August 2025, grades providers on seven criteria-service quality, value, ease of doing business, trust, people, digital tools and problem resolution. On a 1,000-point scale, T-Mobile posted a 663, winning the overall satisfaction and the wireless network quality category for a second straight year. The report notes wireless home internet is growing faster than wired, with a 15% rise in sign-ups over six months versus 6% for wired. The market remains dominated by Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, and the data aim to help consumers compare options and guide provider strategy.

AT&T moves toward satellite beta with AST SpaceMobile, aiming to outpace T-Mobile

February 22, 2026, 8:36 AM EST. AT&T says its arrangement with AST SpaceMobile is moving toward a beta program for satellite connectivity, signaling a tangible step after the 2024 partnership. AST handed its BB7 satellites to Blue Origin, advancing plans to launch into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and broaden coverage with a denser antenna array. The company claims peak data rates of 120 Mbps, higher than what T-Mobile currently offers via its Starlink-based service. AT&T aims to match or exceed the performance with fewer satellites as it builds out ground gateways to connect satellites to its network. Analysts caution AST has struggled to meet targets, and deployment pace will affect coverage for partners including Verizon. Still, AT&T argues faster satellite speeds could matter in dead zones, potentially giving it an edge.

Berkshire Hathaway takes stake in Alphabet as Buffett-era tech skepticism fades

February 22, 2026, 8:30 AM EST. Berkshire Hathaway owns a $5.4 billion stake in Alphabet (GOOGL, GOOG), ranking 14th in its public equities portfolio. The move broadens an otherwise cautious tech exposure for the conglomerate, with Alphabet joining Apple and Amazon among Berkshire's Magnificent Seven holdings. Alphabet's strong margins, big free cash flow, and a dominant AI-driven platform underpin the bet, analysts say. The stock traded at roughly 22.3x forward earnings in Q3 2025, a valuation Berkshire appears to tolerate given Alphabet's growth and balance sheet strength. Alphabet's AI push, including Gemini and Google Cloud, is driving engagement and ad revenue, while network effects on YouTube and search reinforce a durable moat.

Apple expands satellite messaging on iPhone to send texts without cellular coverage

February 22, 2026, 8:24 AM EST. Apple's satellite messaging started as an emergency link, now a two-way texting option when cells or Wi-Fi are absent. The Messages app automatically detects when only satellite is available and presents a prompt to connect. Users must have an iPhone 14 or newer running iOS 18 or later, and be outdoors with a clear sky. Availability is regional: the United States and parts of Canada currently, with expansion planned. Before you travel, enable iMessage, and configure emergency contacts and Family Sharing so others can reach you via SMS without initiating a chat. Once connected, you compose a message, follow on-screen guidance to align with the satellite, and send. Deliveries are slower, and replies ride the same satellite link while the connection persists.

Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 nearly halved in Presidents' Day smartwatch deal

February 22, 2026, 7:54 AM EST. Presidents' Day deals push a major discount on the Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 smartwatch, slashing the price by roughly half and delivering savings of more than $450. The deal, pitched by holiday-weekend aggregators, targets a premium wearable known for health tracking and outdoor navigation. Retailers are leveraging the long weekend to move inventory ahead of spring fitness plans. The price cut could spur quick purchases, though no stock or warranty details were disclosed at publication. The Epix Pro Gen 2 competes in Garmin's high-end lineup against other multisport watches, highlighting GPS accuracy and battery life as key selling points.

Doctor trains AI to do her job as healthcare AI boom attracts investment

February 22, 2026, 7:50 AM EST. A practicing physician has begun training artificial intelligence to perform routine clinical tasks, turning a side project into a growing business. The doctor uses patient data to fine-tune models that can triage questions, draft summaries, and flag possible conditions. The service operates as a consulting and data-labeling venture: clinics pay to have models customized to their workflows, and the physician licenses tools to partner firms. Industry analysts say the approach could accelerate care, but raise questions about responsibility, data privacy, and regulatory approval. Hospitals weigh how to validate AI outputs, and clinicians worry about being displaced. Investors have poured money into healthcare AI startups, yet clinicians remain wary of overclaiming capabilities. The piece highlights the tension between innovation and patient safety in a fast-changing field.

Galaxy Z TriFold could loosen Apple's hold in the US

February 22, 2026, 7:48 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold generated rare in-store lines and a rapid restock sellout, underscoring growing, if still niche, interest in foldables. At $2,900 with no trade-in, the device sold out within 10 minutes after a February restock, despite durability questions. Wave7 Research's January 2026 survey reported a California Samsung Experience store line, the first notable queue for Samsung launches in memory, according to Jeff Moore. Analysts say the TriFold signals interest among techies and Samsung fans, but not broad demand. Production is limited and restocks evaporate quickly. If Samsung aims to loosen Apple's US dominance, it must scale production, improve durability, and widen availability beyond early adopters. The episode marks a milestone in consumer curiosity, even as the TriFold remains a niche product for now.

SpaceX targets Starlink launch from Cape Canaveral with Falcon 9 Block 5

February 22, 2026, 7:42 AM EST. SpaceX targets the launch of Starlink satellites to Low-Earth Orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The mission uses a Falcon 9 rocket, the Block 5 variant, with the booster planned to land on a droneship. SpaceX is the launch provider.

Tesla drops 'Autopilot' term to avoid California 30-day license suspension, DMV says

February 22, 2026, 7:40 AM EST. California's DMV confirmed Tesla removed the Autopilot label from its marketing for its ADAS features, a move that avoids a 30-day suspension of its California license to manufacture and sell vehicles. The DMV had filed suit last year seeking the suspension after a 2021 probe into claims Tesla misled consumers about Autopilot and FSD capabilities; a 2022 inquiry urged Tesla to address "creating incorrect perceptions." A court sided with the DMV, but suspended penalties and gave Tesla 90 days to implement changes. The episode adds to scrutiny over Robotaxis and other tests, even as Tesla reports more incidents and calls for possible hardware updates.

NZ judge trims arson sentence after AI-generated remorse letters

February 22, 2026, 7:34 AM EST. New Zealand district court judge Tom Gilbert reduced a guilty arsonist's sentence after he learned the defendant's two letters of remorse were AI-generated. The defendant, who also bit a police officer in custody, pleaded guilty to arson and related charges and told officers she had AIDS. Gilbert said the AI-generated letters did not prove genuine remorse. He reduced the sentence by 5% rather than the 10% requested, leaving a 27-month term. While not opposed to AI itself, the judge warned that a defendant's remorse must be real, not crafted by machines. The case adds to recent headlines about AI's use in court, where hallucinations and errors in filings have prompted legal firms and judges to reassess tech adoption.

Recruiter cites Zoom etiquette breaches-bathrobes, yoga, and AI's role in remote hiring

February 22, 2026, 7:24 AM EST. Sara Nibler, a Redballoon recruiter who places candidates across manufacturing to media, describes a growing casualness in Zoom interviews. She conducts more than 600 interviews a year for more than 80 client organizations and says candidates show unprofessional behavior-fresh from a shower with a wet ponytail and a shirt open; others stretch into yoga on camera; some roam stores or rest phones in their laps during calls. The trend, she says, has moved from entry-level to experienced applicants. She notes that AI features into the hiring process, adding another layer of informality. The piece flags a widening gap between employer expectations and candidate presentation in remote hiring.

SpaceX plans megaconstellation to power xAI, raising debris and deorbit questions

February 22, 2026, 7:22 AM EST. SpaceX's plan to use a megaconstellation to support xAI has drawn concerns from space-safety experts. Victoria Samson, chief director for Secure World Foundation, described the current orbital environment as a large "bubble" around satellites for collision detection. If SpaceX improves space situational awareness-as with the proposed Stargaze system-that bubble could shrink, but the move heightens risk if debris increases. Marlon Sorge of The Aerospace Corporation noted many unknowns about the constellation's size and deployment, and the existing debris around 800-1,000 km remains a problem, since objects there can take centuries to deorbit. SpaceX's regulatory filing claims redundant maneuverability to deorbit and hints at moving aging satellites to high altitude or heliocentric orbits to limit ozone impact from aluminum burn-off. The plan emphasizes safety but faces trade-offs in orbital debris management.

Quantum tools shaping game design in 2026, says Moth CSO

February 22, 2026, 7:20 AM EST. Dr. James Wootton, Moth's chief science officer, says quantum computing is already changing game design, not by boosting frame rates but by guiding creative work earlier in development. Quantum methods analyze systems with many interacting variables, letting teams explore ideas, pre-render systems, and validate worlds before heavy simulation. The approach could broaden participation, enabling smaller studios to take on ambitious projects and push for bolder experiences. Classical limits force worlds to be scaled back and features cut late because exhaustive testing is costly and slow; quantum analysis promises faster iteration and more thorough testing. While still early, developers are using quantum techniques for procedural generation, visual experimentation, and bug detection, with fault-tolerant systems expected within a typical AAA cycle-GTA VII could benefit.

Lenovo Idea Tab Pro Tablet Review: Budget Power Meets Practicality

February 22, 2026, 7:18 AM EST. Lenovo's Idea Tab Pro is a budget tablet with a 12.7-inch display, expandable storage and a stylus included. Pricing starts at $389 for 128GB and rises to $419 for 256GB, with occasional discounts pushing the lower tier toward $289. It uses a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chip, 8GB RAM and 256GB of UFS 4.0 storage, plus a microSD slot for cheap expansion. It runs Android 14 with two OS updates and four years of security patches. The display is bright and sharp but not very punchy. The performance is modest for demanding apps, though it handles light productivity and media well. It sits behind Snapdragon rivals in raw power but offers value if price matters.

Russian Luch/Olymp inspector satellite fragments in graveyard orbit, debris risk grows

February 22, 2026, 7:02 AM EST. Optical imagery from Swiss space-situational awareness company s2A systems shows a fragmentation event as the Russian Luch/Olymp satellite disintegrates and begins to tumble after being retired to a graveyard orbit above the geostationary belt (GEO). NORAD catalog 40258, launched in 2014, was moved a few hundred miles above GEO in October 2025. Space-situational data posted Jan. 30 on X notes additional objects circling the satellite following the event at 06:09 GMT. Astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell told Space.com the breakup could reflect an external debris impact, rather than venting from on-board energy sources. If confirmed, the episode raises questions about the debris environment in GEO and the graveyard orbit.

How to hide Google's AI Overviews from search results

February 22, 2026, 6:56 AM EST. In 2026, Google's AI Overviews are a common feature in search results. A keyboard trick lets users suppress them briefly: append an en dash followed by –ai to queries. Google says AI Overviews are one of several built-in result elements, not removable for most users. Tests show the trick works on desktop browsers but is less reliable on iOS apps; Android Pixel devices sometimes remove AI Overviews entirely. Some users can also switch to the Web tab or Classic Search options to view more traditional links. Alternatives such as DuckDuckGo and Brave let users toggle AI summaries in settings. The method offers temporary relief but lacks a permanent toggle or guaranteed consistency across devices and platforms.

SpaceX shifts focus to the Moon, delaying Mars plans, Musk says

February 22, 2026, 6:54 AM EST. Elon Musk said SpaceX has shifted focus to a lunar project, outlining a self-growing city on the Moon with a manufacturing plan for satellites and solar power harnessing. The announcement on X in February 2026 contrasts with an earlier 2025 note calling the Moon a distraction. Musk argues lunar development would be faster than Mars: a Moon city in about 10 years vs. a Mars city in roughly twice as long, given launches every 10 days for the Moon and six months to reach Mars. NASA cites 7-10 months to Mars. Musk says Mars remains on the horizon, with a five-to-seven year path to resume that goal. Skeptics note past SpaceX timetables have overpromised and underdelivered.

Arizona State Retirement System trims NVDA stake, but NVIDIA remains its largest holding

February 22, 2026, 6:50 AM EST. Arizona State Retirement System cut its stake in NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) by 0.1% in Q3, according to its Form 13F. The fund held 7,125,637 shares after selling 8,176, leaving the stock as its largest position at about 7.1% of total holdings, with a value around $1.33 billion at quarter-end. Other institutions also adjusted holdings, with several new positions reported for the quarter. In the last ninety days, insiders sold $291.7 million worth of stock, including 250,000 shares by Director Harvey C. Jones and 80,000 shares by EVP Debora Shoquist. The combined insider activity totaled about 1.61 million shares. NVIDIA's leverage and liquidity metrics drew attention, alongside trading activity and ongoing ownership shifts.

SpaceX Falcon 9 carries 28 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral; booster sets 33rd flight and lands on drone ship

February 22, 2026, 6:48 AM EST. SpaceX's Falcon 9 roared from Cape Canaveral Saturday night, delivering 28 Starlink satellites to orbit. The booster logged a record 33rd mission and later touched down on the A Shortfall of Gravitas drone ship in the Atlantic; Brevard County reported no sonic boom. The launch, from Launch Complex 40, followed a delay and underscores SpaceX's ongoing Starlink deployment drive. The next Falcon 9 mission from Florida is planned for no earlier than 3:56 p.m. Tues., Feb. 24, launching another Starlink batch (Starlink 6-110) from LC-40. The cadence reflects SpaceX's push to reuse boosters while expanding the internet-beaming constellation.

Former IRS Commissioner explains how AI delivered immediate value during modernization, outlining three lanes to ROI

February 22, 2026, 6:46 AM EST. In a look at government AI use, a former IRS commissioner explains how the agency's modernization in 2023 deployed targeted AI to boost taxpayer service, compliance, and efficiency. With accountability front and center, every dollar spent had to show measurable improvements. The plan: locate urgent pain points, apply AI, then measure impact before expanding. Three lanes for value emerge. General Purpose AI aids daily productivity, but where risk must be managed, firms should train employees to use it effectively for their roles. Domain-Specific Systems, built on authoritative data with safeguards, offer precision in legal and tax work. The tax hotline turnaround-28 minutes to three, live answers for millions-illustrates rapid ROI.

Microsoft's new gaming CEO Asha Sharma vows to address Xbox exclusives

February 22, 2026, 6:44 AM EST. Microsoft's new gaming chief, Asha Sharma, acknowledged players' concerns over the lack of Xbox exclusives and said the company would hear you on the issue. The remark, reported Feb. 21, 2026, signals a focus on the console's lineup, though no new titles or timelines were announced.

Moore Threads debuts MTT AI Book with 12-core Arm MT1000, Windows via VM

February 22, 2026, 6:42 AM EST. Moore Threads has rolled out the MTT AI Book, a thin and light laptop powered by the in-house MT1000 Arm CPU. The 12-core processor runs at 2.65 GHz (base) and pairs with a MUSA-based GPU, plus a built-in NPU touted to deliver up to 50 TOPS of AI compute. The SoC, codenamed Yangtze, uses 32 GB of LPDDR5X-7500 unified memory and a 1 TB SSD. The device ships with a Linux-based AIOS but can run Windows, via virtualization rather than native Windows on Arm. Pricing in China is 9999 yuan with a 14-inch 2.8K OLED display at 120 Hz. Moore Threads faces Nvidia's awaited N1X, which targets Windows-on-Arm and higher-end GPU performance.

MOFT's MagSafe wallet with Find My support goes on sale for $49.99

February 22, 2026, 6:40 AM EST. MOFT has released a Find My-enabled version of its MagSafe wallet with a built-in kickstand. Debuting at CES 2025, the wallet keeps the vegan leather, slim profile and kickstand users know, while adding Find My tracking. It still fits up to three cards (thinner stacks may hold two) and can be used as a grip or stand. The internal speaker can emit up to 70dB to help locate the wallet, and unlike some rivals, it does not require a proprietary cable. It supports wireless charging and MagSafe, and MOFT says a full charge lasts up to six months while staying low-profile. It sells for $49.99 in four colors – Jet Black, Misty Cove, Blackberry, and Terracotta – and is available now.

Louisiana attorney uses AI to draft brief; court flags hallucinated case law

February 22, 2026, 6:32 AM EST. Louisiana attorney John R. Walker, admitted in 1983, says he was exploring AI tools when drafting a motion in a Mandeville case. He used Westlaw Precision AI and ChatGPT to generate citations and quotations. The programs allegedly hallucinated cases, and Walker did not notice before filing. U.S. District Judge Brandon Long criticized the filing, noting many cited cases do not exist or misstate facts, and said the outcome reflects an astonishingly careless use of generative AI by licensed attorneys. Walker accepted responsibility, telling the court he was new to these tools and did not understand their limitations. He faces possible sanctions when he appears before the judge, with penalties potentially running to thousands of dollars for his client.

ICIMS recruiter says job seekers aren't using AI correctly in job hunt

February 22, 2026, 6:16 AM EST. An ICIMS recruiting professional says job seekers are not using AI tools effectively in the job-search process. The remark comes as AI features proliferate in resumes, cover letters and candidate matching. He argues applicants often rely on generic AI outputs and neglect role-specific tailoring. He urges job seekers to verify and customize AI-generated content, supplement it with direct outreach and thorough role research. While AI can speed tasks, it cannot replace human networking, personalization or due diligence. ICIMS and other HR-tech firms are betting on AI to reshape hiring, even as job seekers adapt their approach.

NASA delays Artemis II launch to March after hydrogen leak during pre-launch test

February 22, 2026, 5:56 AM EST. NASA has delayed the Artemis II lunar fly-by mission to March after critical pre-launch checks uncovered issues during a wet dress rehearsal at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission will carry four astronauts-three Americans and one Canadian-and will stay on the ground for at least a month as teams investigate a hydrogen leak detected during fueling and a second leak that appeared during pressurization. The test aimed to validate the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion capsule ahead of a crewed Moon cruise farther than any prior deep-space mission. NASA notes lessons from Artemis I guided the process, but officials say the investigation is not yet complete.

SpaceX-xAI merger under scrutiny as July 2026 IPO looms

February 22, 2026, 5:54 AM EST. SpaceX plans an IPO in July 2026 at a target near $1.5 trillion, but the math rests on a three-way merger: SpaceX, X (formerly Twitter) and xAI (Grok). The deal follows Musk's insider sale valuing SpaceX at $800 billion in December and X merging with xAI in March. Valuations cited by boards peg SpaceX at about $1 trillion, xAI at roughly $250 billion, and X at about $33 billion, yielding a combined $1.25 trillion at the January 30 merger. Proponents argue a 20% rise by July isn't unheard of in tech. Critics note none of the three are public, so revenue and profit remain unknown until a formal IPO prospectus. Grok, X, and SpaceX would be offered together; investors would effectively buy all three.

Software stocks slide; is it time to buy the dip amid AI fears

February 22, 2026, 5:46 AM EST. Software shares have pulled back, weighing on names like Microsoft, Oracle and Salesforce. Microsoft is down about 28% from its all-time high; Oracle roughly 55% off; Salesforce roughly 27% this year. Analysts offer competing theories: the AI boom could render some products obsolete, or firms overspent on AI and won't reap expected returns. The pullback sits in a broader debate about an AI bubble. The S&P Software & Services index has fallen about 20% in 2026, while the Nasdaq tech gauge is down modestly. Some good businesses are being hammered indiscriminately, investors say. The question remains: will software stocks endure the AI revolution, or retreat before it completes its cycle?

NVIDIA Q4 Earnings Loom: AI, Data Center Demand in Focus Ahead of Results

February 22, 2026, 5:38 AM EST. NVIDIA Corp NVDA is slated to report its fiscal Q4 2026 results after the Feb. 25 close. The company targets about $65 billion in quarterly revenue, just shy of the Zacks consensus of $65.56 billion, and roughly 66% year-over-year growth. Analysts expect EPS of $1.52, about 71% higher than a year ago. Zacks notes mixed recent results, with an average surprise of about 2.8% in the past four quarters. Its Earnings ESP is 0.00% and the stock carries a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy), offering no clear beat signal. The Data Center business is seen as the main driver, aided by AI workloads and NVIDIA's Blackwell GPUs. Gaming and Professional Visualization trends also point to continued recovery into the quarter.

Xbox next week lineup-Resident Evil Requiem leads 30+ titles Feb. 23-27

February 22, 2026, 5:36 AM EST. Xbox players get a busy slate from February 23-27 with more than 30 new releases. The standout is Resident Evil Requiem, alongside three Game Pass day-one titles, notably TCG Card Shop Simulator and Towerborne (Xbox Game Studios 1.0). New releases include Bread & Fred, Capy Spa, Dark Farts: Parody Smell Edition, Deep Space Shooter, Ghetto Zombies: Graffiti Squad, Journey of Johann: Castle Crusade, One-Button Games 5-in-1 Vol. 4, Pogui, UFOPHILIA, Corner Kitchen Fast Food Simulator, and more. The week leans indie and eclectic: platformers, shooters, puzzle adventures and humor. Check Game Pass for day-one access and availability, and note regional timing. This roundup offers quick takes so readers can track what's arriving next week.

Apple pushes on-device AI with Ferret-UI Lite for Siri on iPhone

February 22, 2026, 5:26 AM EST. Apple is accelerating work to let Siri run more tasks locally, aided by Ferret-UI Lite, a lightweight GUI agent designed for on-device processing. The effort builds on Ferret, an open-source multi-modal LLM from 2023 created with Cornell University that could interpret images and UI screenshots. In 2024, Ferret-UI expanded to read interface elements, but earlier versions relied on large cloud-based LLMs, raising privacy concerns. The February 2026 paper introduces Ferret-UI Lite, a 3-billion-parameter model that runs across mobile, web, and desktop, using cropped UI images and chain-of-thought reasoning plus visual-tool use and reinforcement learning to cut data sent to servers. Apple's goal is to keep queries fast and private on-device, while still supporting GUI-based and multi-agent interactions on iPhone.

AI gives English majors unexpected leverage in the job market

February 22, 2026, 5:12 AM EST. AI tools are reshaping hiring in fields that prize communication and analysis. In the job market, English majors are finding new pathways as AI-assisted writing, editing, and research sharpen demand for narrative clarity. Experts say recruiters report that candidates who pair traditional writing with basic data literacy and collaborative project work stand out. Some employers use AI to screen portfolios, assess problem-solving, and measure the ability to craft persuasive content at scale. Universities are expanding programs to emphasize digital literacy, research methods, and teamwork with tech teams. Critics caution automation could limit opportunities if curricula lag. Overall, the trend shifts emphasis to applied language skills and the capacity to interpret and refine AI outputs.

EU DMA opens doors to alternative app stores; Japan experiments with MSCA

February 22, 2026, 5:00 AM EST. EU users can access alternative app stores under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which requires apps to pass a notarization check rather than Apple's App Store review. Stores set their own policies and handle support and refunds. Developers must accept Apple's DMA-compliant terms, including a Core Technology Fee of €0.50 per first annual install of a marketplace app, even before the 1 million installs threshold used for other EU apps. Beyond the EU, Japan is testing rules under the Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA) that loosen commissions and payment terms. In the EU, AltStore PAL lets developers self-host apps via an ADP and user-added sources, with titles like UTM and OldOS appearing.

Anthropic engineer warns of painful reshaping of computer jobs

February 22, 2026, 4:58 AM EST. An Anthropic engineer warns that AI-driven automation will reshape computer jobs in a way that could feel painful for workers. The warning centers on rapid shifts in demand for coding, debugging and system operations as large language models and automation spread. The engineer says some roles may shrink while others demand new skills, creating a period of disruption. Companies are urged to commit to retraining, transparent career paths, and voluntary transitions rather than layoffs. Analysts note pace and impact vary by sector, with smaller firms and routine tasks most exposed. The remarks come as AI tools grow more capable and adoption accelerates across tech and enterprise software.

Pixel 10a launches with bundles as rivals Galaxy S25 FE, OnePlus 15R lure with better deals

February 22, 2026, 4:56 AM EST. Google introduces the Pixel 10a, effectively the 9a with a brighter 6.3-inch display, Tensor G4, 48+13MP cameras, and a 5,100mAh battery. Upgrades include faster wired (30W) and wireless (10W) charging and regional Satellite SOS support; Pixel Snap is not supported. Pre-orders come with a $100 gift card or a pair of Pixel Buds 2a (valued around $130); shipping starts March 5. Old Pixel 9a prices have collapsed elsewhere, with recent listings near $400-$500 in some variants but largely limited to third-party sellers now. The competitors: Samsung Galaxy S25 FE priced at around $450 for 8/128GB, with a 6.7-inch display, 4,900mAh, 45W/15W charging, Exynos 2400, and an 8MP 3x telephoto; no satellite messaging. The OnePlus 15R also features a $100 gift card deal.

Founder uses $20-a-month AI tools to skip hires

February 22, 2026, 4:46 AM EST. An as-told-to profile of Christina Puder, a 35-year-old solo founder in Madrid who builds a business with $20-a-month AI tools rather than hires. After leaving her side hustle to coach product managers, she bootstrapped, avoiding full-time staff as too expensive. With no technical background, she joined Lovable, an AI coding assistant, and it generated her landing page rapidly. The episode helped her see AI as a business enabler, speeding website work and internal processes. Now she emphasizes lean staffing and depends on AI-driven tools instead of payroll, planning growth in 2025 as a bootstrapped operation. BI is seeking other Tiny Teams stories about wins, fears and the human skills that matter.

Apple iOS 27 could deliver major battery gains; Siri chatbot on Google cloud; Tesla CarPlay rollout highlights iOS 26 delays

February 22, 2026, 4:42 AM EST. Apple's iOS 27 is shaping up as a subtler update, focusing on code cleanup, minor UI tweaks and optimizing older apps, per Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The net effect could be improved battery life. The company also reportedly plans a dedicated Siri chatbot running on Google's TPUs and cloud infrastructure, using an advanced Apple Foundation Models version 11 that might rival Google's Gemini 3. Some features originally slated for iOS 26.4 could arrive with iOS 27. Separately, Tesla has flagged slow CarPlay adoption tied to iOS 26; after 150 days, iOS 26 sits at 74% versus 76% for iOS 18. Tesla cited Maps-sync bugs that were addressed in a bug-fix update, though the churn in updates remains a concern.

Generative AI speeds medical data analysis in preterm birth study

February 22, 2026, 4:40 AM EST. Scientists at UCSF and Wayne State University compared AI-assisted teams with traditional approaches on a preterm birth prediction task using microbiome and clinical data from about 1,200 pregnant women tracked across nine studies. In early real-world tests, generative AI helped researchers design and run analytical code in minutes, delivering usable tooling faster than human-only pipelines. Some AI-supported teams produced stronger results, and junior researchers-one a master's student, another a high school student-completed experiments and submitted findings within months. Still, only 4 of 8 AI chatbots yielded usable code, underscoring variability. The work highlights the potential to accelerate data analysis pipelines and diagnostic tool development for preterm birth-the leading cause of newborn death-while emphasizing the role of open data sharing and crowdsourcing through DREAM.

OMC Power partners with Honda to repurpose EV batteries for energy storage

February 22, 2026, 3:32 AM EST. OMC Power is moving into EV battery repurposing, partnering with Honda to deliver second-life energy storage solutions for homes and businesses. Co-founder and CEO Rohit Chandra said retired batteries will be sourced from Honda after three years of vehicle use and repurposed for UPS systems and hybrid rooftop solar installations over the next seven years. Honda, which acquired a minority stake in OMC Power in October 2025, will help assemble the systems at OMC's Manesar facility, integrating Honda batteries with UPS units. Honda expects to manufacture about 6 million EV batteries annually, creating a pool for reuse. Pilot projects include a solar rooftop program at a school in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh. OMC Power also plans Rs 4,000 crore to reach 1 GWp of renewable capacity by 2030, including 600 MWp rooftop solar in healthcare.

Huawei Nova 14 Pro review: standout camera tech, but Europe's 5G limits and trade-offs

February 22, 2026, 3:10 AM EST. The Huawei Nova 14 Pro delivers standout camera performance for its price. Its cameras produce images you'd expect from models twice as expensive, with a variable aperture that yields natural bokeh and post-shot adjustment. The front cameras handle portraits well, and the zoom reaches about 10x. Battery life is average in Europe after a smaller pack, but Wi-Fi 7 is fast and the display stays bright in sunlight. The device feels premium-IP65-rated, dual-tone back, glass with an ice-crystal sheen-and weighs 207g. No microSD support and USB lacks USB 3.0 for external monitors. 5G exists on Chinese models but cannot be activated in Europe due to sanctions; it's 4G here. HarmonyOS runs many Android apps; Google services install easily, though Google Pay isn't available, with Bluecode serving as the European alternative. Overall, strong camera value, with notable compromises.

Tesla's cheapest Model 3 in the UK offers 332-mile range and £37,990 price

February 22, 2026, 3:06 AM EST. Tesla positions the Model 3 Rear Wheel Drive as the UK's most affordable long-range EV. The car preserves core attributes while tweaks aim to lower total cost of ownership. Changes include reduced top speed and acceleration to lower insurance group ratings and 18-inch wheels chosen for efficiency and residual value. Official pricing sits at £37,990, with a limited-time £3,750 part-exchange allowance. Tesla frames the move within a broader plan spanning home energy products (Powerwall, a home charger) and an autonomous ride-hailing vision, including Full Self-Driving and a planned Cybercab. The brand's strapline "to build a world of amazing abundance" ties the car, energy and personal chauffeur concepts together.

Alphabet Tops Profitability as AI, Cloud and New Ventures Drive Growth

February 22, 2026, 3:04 AM EST. Alphabet has emerged as the most profitable U.S. company, powered by a widening AI growth engine. Google Cloud revenue has accelerated, helping diversify profits beyond advertising. The Gemini app, with its mix of free and paid features, could become a long-term profit lever alongside ads and cloud. Alphabet also bets on growth via Waymo and other ventures, deploying capital into ideas with potential cash flow in the future. By funding a portfolio of businesses, Alphabet can reallocate capital as ideas mature, supporting higher long-term margins. The result: Alphabet has outpaced peers in the Magnificent Seven and drawn fresh investor interest, with AI and cloud poised to drive further profitability gains.

The 10 Best Real-Time Strategy Games to Play in 2026

February 22, 2026, 3:02 AM EST. The RTS scene in 2026 reflects Tactical Pluralism, with classic base-builders sharing the stage with daring new tactics. The piece surveys games currently dominating the meta and delivering stable, content-rich experiences. Highlights include Company of Heroes 3, which refines WW2 play with the Italian Dynamic Campaign, North African Operations, new Battlegroups and an expanded Operations mode. Age of Empires IV is praised for cinematic single-player campaigns that blend history with live-action segments, offering a prestige experience. Sins of a Solar Empire II fuses Grand Strategy with RTS, adding moving planetary orbits that reshape supply lines and defenses in real time. The list guides players toward titles with depth, balance, and ongoing content through 2026.

Meta, Nvidia strike multiyear alliance for hyperscale AI infrastructure

February 22, 2026, 3:00 AM EST. Meta and Nvidia unveil a multiyear partnership to build hyperscale AI infrastructure capable of handling the industry's largest workloads. The plan deploys millions of Nvidia GPUs and Arm-based CPUs, expands network capacity and embeds privacy-preserving computing across Meta's platforms. The unified architecture spans on-premises data centers and Nvidia cloud partner deployments, simplifying operations while boosting AI training and inference. Nvidia says the effort will integrate its frontier platform with Meta's-scale production workloads, delivering improved performance per watt. A cornerstone is large-scale deployment of Nvidia Grace CPUs, described as the first Grace-only deployment at this scale, alongside Spectrum-X networking and Confidential Computing to enable WhatsApp-era privacy. Engineering teams will codesign AI models and optimize software across the stack.

AI's infrastructure play: Digital Realty may outperform pure AI stocks

February 22, 2026, 2:48 AM EST. Stock markets chase Nvidia's AI rally, but a different play lies in Digital Realty. Digital Realty is a REIT that owns data centers, spaces where AI compute power lives. Nvidia has surged about 750% in three years, while Digital Realty is up roughly 55%. For long-term AI exposure, the company offers a steadier path: a 2.7% dividend yield and cash flow tied to tenants expanding their compute needs. Digital Realty could also buy data centers from AI leaders who build in-house capacity, providing growth beyond simple leasing. Even if enthusiasm wanes, AI's demand for space could keep revenue rising. The stock carries risk-versus-reward considerations, but it may suit more conservative investors seeking AI exposure via infrastructure.

Vivo V70 Elite vs OnePlus 15R: a premium Android duel in India

February 22, 2026, 2:44 AM EST. In India, the Vivo V70 Elite launches with a 6.59-inch AMOLED display and a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip, backed by a 6,500 mAh battery and 90W charging. It runs Android 16 with OriginOS 6. It carries a triple camera setup led by a 50 MP IMX766 main sensor with OIS and a 3x periscope telephoto. Pricing starts at Rs 51,999. The rival OnePlus 15R uses a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and OxygenOS 16, with a larger 6.83-inch panel and a higher peak refresh (up to 165Hz). It delivers a 7,400 mAh battery with 80W charging and a dual rear camera system led by a 50 MP IMX906 main sensor. Prices begin at Rs 47,999. Both flag fast charging and premium cooling, but differ on cameras, software, and IP ratings.

Forget Tech Stocks: Digital Realty Bets on AI Infrastructure

February 22, 2026, 2:42 AM EST. Digital Realty (DLR) is a real estate investment trust that owns data centers. The business model is leasing space to tenants, but what sits inside is compute power for AI workloads. AI must run somewhere, and Digital Realty is leaning into this niche by serving as housing and management for AI tech. Nvidia has surged about 750% over three years, while Digital Realty is up roughly 55%-a more conservative bet on the AI theme. The stock offers a 2.7% dividend yield, with cash flow that could grow as AI demand rises. The company could also become a strategic buyer of rival data centers, extending a longer growth runway even if enthusiasm for pure AI plays wanes. The risk/reward may suit investors seeking AI exposure with steadier infrastructure.

Edge AI explained: on-device intelligence and the shift from cloud computing

February 22, 2026, 2:40 AM EST. Edge AI blends on-device computing with artificial intelligence to run models where data is generated-on sensors, cameras, and embedded systems-reducing reliance on the cloud. Proponents say it speeds real-time responses, enhances privacy, and lowers bandwidth needs as devices in homes, offices, farms, hospitals, and transport ecosystems collect data via sensors, LiDAR, cameras, and beacons. AIoT networks use this data to infer occupancy, monitor health, optimise HVAC, manage traffic, or flag emergencies. But moving AI processing from cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud) to edge devices raises challenges in data management, model maintenance, energy use, and computing power. Foundation Models-broad, adaptable AI trained on large data sets-form a base for downstream tasks in both cloud and edge deployments, enabling cross-domain, multimodal inference.

Nvidia stock seen as buy ahead of Feb. 25 earnings amid sustained AI demand

February 22, 2026, 2:38 AM EST. Nvidia trades lower from its 52-week high as AI reassessment rattles the sector. The company is due to announce fiscal Q4 results for the quarter ended Jan. 25 on Feb. 25. The piece argues the pullback could offer an entry point, underpinned by Nvidia's end-to-end AI platform that combines semiconductor hardware with its CUDA software. CEO Jensen Huang frames AI as a multi-year shift, noting legacy software will migrate to advanced AI tools. Nvidia guided for Q4 sales of about $65 billion, up from $39.3 billion a year earlier, suggesting demand remains strong. The company won clearance to sell in China after an earlier restriction, with potential 2026 quarterly sales exceeding the prior quarter. Partnerships, including a $5 billion Intel investment, and a favorable forward P/E valuation reinforce the case.

Edge AI: Running AI on devices to cut cloud dependence

February 22, 2026, 2:36 AM EST. Edge AI runs machine-learning models on sensors, cameras, or embedded systems, letting devices process data locally. This can reduce latency, boost privacy, and ease bandwidth use in smart homes, cars, hospitals and factories. AIoT systems collect data such as occupancy, air quality, radar or LiDAR, then perform inference at the edge to guide actions like HVAC optimization, safety alerts and traffic management. Cloud platforms still host large models, including Foundation Models, but edge deployments deliver real-time responses without constant cloud contact. Challenges include model updates, limited compute, interoperability and security. The trend fuses IoT with AI, delivering new capabilities while demanding stronger governance and lighter, portable models.

Foldable iPhone on track to launch with iPhone 18 Pro lineup in September

February 22, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. Apple plans to launch a foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models in September, with mass production of the foldable display slated for July. The device uses a novel hinge and custom components, and Apple is reportedly relying on Samsung for the displays, pushing LG Display to the side. The timing mirrors the iPhone 18 Pro displays, suggesting a simultaneous release. Rival Samsung is working on a Galaxy Z Wide Fold with comparable wide-folding proportions, potentially arriving with the Galaxy Z Fold 8. The report warns consumer caution, noting potential risks given Apple's past hardware hiccups, and acknowledges that Apple's production timeline remains tight.

Apple sets March 4 'special Apple Experience' as iOS 26.4 beta arrives; iPhone 18 Pro rumors

February 22, 2026, 2:14 AM EST. Apple invites media to a 'special Apple Experience' on March 4 in New York, London and Shanghai, promising hands-on time with a slate of announced products. The week could feature several press releases before the experiences begin. In parallel, Apple released the first beta of iOS 26.4, adding features such as CarPlay video over AirPlay and other refinements. Rumors point to upgrades in the iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max, with additional expected improvements, and a broader lineup that may include the iPhone 17e, M5 Pro/Max MacBook Pro models, and new iPads. Adoption data suggest iOS 26 uptake remains modestly behind early iOS 18 figures at a similar point, despite the Liquid Glass redesign. Toyota expands Apple Wallet Car Keys to more models.

Samsung expands Galaxy AI multi-agent ecosystem with Perplexity integration

February 22, 2026, 2:06 AM EST. Samsung Electronics announced the expansion of Galaxy AI, deepening a multi-agent ecosystem designed to reduce effort and offer users more choice and control. The update adds Perplexity as an integrated AI agent on upcoming flagship Galaxy devices, accessible via the wake phrase "Hey Plex" or side-button shortcut. Perplexity will be embedded in core apps such as Notes, Clock, Gallery, Reminder and Calendar, and will support cross-app, multi-step workflows without manual app switching. Galaxy AI operates at the system-level, using context to enable natural interactions and background processing, aligning with Samsung's goal of seamless, ecosystem-wide experiences. Samsung positions Galaxy AI as an orchestrator that brings together different AI forms, while continuing partnerships to broaden availability. Details on devices and experiences will be announced soon.

Live coverage: SpaceX launches 25 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg; upper-stage anomaly

February 22, 2026, 1:58 AM EST. SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, delivering 25 Starlink V2 Mini Optimized satellites into low Earth orbit. Liftoff occurred at 7:47:11 a.m. PST (10:47:11 a.m. EST / 1547:11 UTC). The mission showed nominal first and second-stage burns, but the upper stage experienced an off-nominal condition during prep for the deorbit burn. The stage was passivated, and all 25 satellites deployed to their intended orbit. Teams are reviewing data to determine the root cause and corrective actions before returning to flight. The next Starlink mission, 6-103, was rescheduled amid other NASA activity. Booster B1071 landed on the drone ship 'Of Course I Still Love You' about 8.5 minutes after liftoff – its 175th landing on that ship and 567th booster landing overall.

Newport News Fiber Upgrade: OSUCGSC and SCFIBERSC Drive Fast Internet

February 22, 2026, 1:54 AM EST. Newport News is seeing a fiber-driven upgrade from two players: OSUCGSC and SCFIBERSC. In the explanation, OSUCGSC is described as a community backbone supporting network development, while SCFIBERSC specializes in fiberoptic services. The pairing signals a move toward robust, scalable infrastructure built for today and tomorrow. The article highlights the key benefit: fiber delivers speeds in the gigabits per second range, lower latency, and higher reliability compared with copper-based networks. For gamers, remote workers, and streamers, the upgrade promises reduced buffering and smoother online experiences. The piece emphasizes active deployment in Newport News, a city seeking to modernize its internet fabric with proven, high-capacity technology.

Apple MagSafe explained: what it is and which iPhones support it

February 22, 2026, 1:52 AM EST. MagSafe is Apple's wireless charging platform that debuted with the iPhone 12. Based on the Qi standard, it uses magnets to snap a charger and a host of accessories to the back of the iPhone. The coil alignment provided by the magnets improves efficiency and reduces heat. Original MagSafe charging ran at up to 15W; newer iPhones support up to 25W for wireless charging. Beyond charging, magnets enable compatible accessories – wallets, stands, battery packs and mounts – without adhesives. Compatible models include iPhone 12 and later; older iPhones do not officially support MagSafe.

NASA sets Artemis II wet dress rehearsal for Feb. 2; earliest launch Feb. 8

February 22, 2026, 1:50 AM EST. NASA moved the Artemis II wet dress rehearsal tanking to Monday, Feb. 2, at Kennedy Space Center due to weather, pushing the first launch opportunity to Sunday, Feb. 8. Forecasters cited cold conditions and Arctic winds. Engineers adjusted hardware checks and aligned heater configurations and purges for the chill, while Orion remains powered. The wet dress window opens at 9 p.m. EST on Feb. 2, with the countdown starting about 49 hours prior. Friday, Feb. 6, and Saturday, Feb. 7, are no longer viable. The Artemis II crew remains in quarantine in Houston; crew arrival timing will be reviewed. NASA will stream the test live, with a separate feed for wet dress activities and real-time fueling updates.

Samsung Galaxy S26 bets on Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 with AI, GPU and 5G advances

February 22, 2026, 1:48 AM EST. Samsung is set to launch the Galaxy S26 series on Feb 25, with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip delivering CPU, GPU and AI gains. The chip uses a 3rd-gen Oryon CPU (Qualcomm's third-gen custom core) with 2 prime cores up to 4.6GHz and 6 performance cores, delivering about 20% higher single-core, 17% higher multi-core, and 32% faster responsiveness. An 37% boost in AI/NPU performance (up to 220 tokens per second) supports new Galaxy AI features in One UI 8.5. The Adreno GPU targets roughly 23% overall uplift and 25% better ray tracing. The 3nm X85 5G Modem-RF supports 12.5Gbps downlink, SA, mmWave and AI-assisted Wi-Fi with lower latency. Geekbench shows the S26 Ultra at 3,761 single-core and 11,454 multi-core vs the S25 Ultra at 3,094 and 9,703, suggesting faster app launches and smoother gaming.

NASA Artemis II launch likely delayed to March 2026 at earliest

February 22, 2026, 1:42 AM EST. NASA said Artemis II – the first crewed flight of the Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion – is unlikely to launch before March 2026. The agency scrapped an 8 February target after issues during a wet dress rehearsal on 2 February, and earlier 6-7 February dates were scrubbed by cold weather at Kennedy Space Center. The official earliest date remains 8 February for now, but a March 2026 window appears likely. Rollout of the fully stacked vehicle to Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center on 17 January started final integration and testing ahead of launch rehearsals. The crew – Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen – will perform a final pad walkdown after ground-system checks. Artemis II will circle the Moon but not land.

Artemis 2 moon mission prompts scheduling dance with SpaceX's Crew-12 launch

February 22, 2026, 1:40 AM EST. NASA's Artemis 2 crewed lunar mission and Crew-12 launch to the International Space Station are shaping up as a tightly choreographed sequence on Florida's Space Coast, constrained by an Arctic cold snap. NASA targets a Feb. 11 liftoff for Crew-12 at 6:00 a.m. EST from Space Launch Complex-40 (SLC-40). The plan hinges on Artemis 2's wet dress rehearsal (WDR), a two-day prelaunch fueling test for the Space Launch System rocket; the test's outcome will ripple through both schedules. If Artemis clears its flight readiness review (FRR) and launches on Feb. 8, Crew-12 could be deferred to Feb. 19. Artemis 2 will carry Wiseman, Glover, Koch and Hansen for a 10-day lunar mission, the first since Apollo 17. The overlap signals NASA's renewed tempo for human spaceflight.

RTX 5060 Ti 8GB remains at MSRP as RTX 50-series hype narrows to a single option

February 22, 2026, 1:38 AM EST. Tom's Hardware tests show the GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 8GB remains available at $379, with only the MSI GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 8G Ventus 2X OC Plus and the Gigabyte GeForce RTX 5060 Ti WindForce 8G still selling at that price. The card delivers solid 1080p performance and is a compact upgrade from the RTX 3060 Ti and the RTX 4060 Ti. It draws 180W and uses a single 8-pin PCIe power connector; a 600W PSU is recommended. DLSS 4.5 and Multi-Frame Generation help lift performance when needed. The 16GB variant shows little delta at normal settings, but pulls away with higher fidelity. With memory shortages persisting, under-$400 options from MSI and Gigabyte remain hard to ignore.

5 Pros and Cons of Buying a Used iPad

February 22, 2026, 1:18 AM EST. Used iPads can trim cost, but carry trade-offs. The price landscape includes the 128GB 11-inch iPad (A16) at $349 Wi-Fi and $499 Wi-Fi+Cellular, while the 256GB 13-inch iPad Pro (M5) starts at $1,299 Wi-Fi or $1,499 with cellular. Storage and RAM bumps raise prices; cellular adds roughly $150-$200. Buyers can save by shopping on Apple refurb, eBay, or Craigslist, with Apple offering a 12-month warranty on refurbished units. Other vendors may offer perks but not uniform coverage. A hypothetical $800 budget could yield a used iPad Pro (M5) or older M-series with the preferred storage, RAM, and cellular options. As models advance, newer iPads command higher prices; balance needs against risk and condition.

Galaxy S26 Ultra battery life and charging unchanged in leaked promo ahead of Unpacked

February 22, 2026, 1:14 AM EST. Leaked Samsung promo materials ahead of the February 25 Unpacked event show the Galaxy S26 lineup, including the S26 Ultra, S26 and S26+. The materials highlight Privacy Display details and an image-editing boost under Galaxy AI branding, plus the familiar camera layout: 200MP main, 50MP 5x tele, 50MP ultrawide, 10MP 3x tele, and a 12MP selfie, with a new Snapdragon chip. Importantly, the Galaxy S26 Ultra keeps a 5,000 mAh battery and a claimed 31-hour runtime, with Samsung saying it charges to 75% in 30 minutes-unchanged from last year, though rumors of 60W charging persist. The promo also confirms the launch window and tease pricing, while a full reveal awaits at the Unpacked event.

Paragon Advisors trims NVIDIA stake; 4th-largest holding in 13F filing

February 22, 2026, 1:10 AM EST. Paragon Advisors LLC cut its stake in NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) by 22.8% in the third quarter per its latest 13F filing. It held 73,228 shares after selling 21,590, making the stock about 3.5% of its portfolio and the 4th-largest holding. The stake was worth roughly $13.663 million at the filing. Other institutions adjusted: Harbor Asset Planning opened a new stake, Winnow Wealth added, Spurstone bought, and Longfellow increased by 67 shares (a 47.9% rise to 207). Institutional owners hold about 65.27% of NVIDIA. Analysts remained positive overall; Truist, KeyCorp, Raymond James, and Macquarie issued favorable notes; Wall Street Zen trimmed to hold. EVP Debora Shoquist sold 80,000 shares on Dec 11, leaving 1,494,443 shares.

Alphabet AI updates lift Nvidia, Broadcom stock outlook, video reports

February 22, 2026, 1:04 AM EST. In a short video, the author reviews recent updates affecting Alphabet (GOOGL/GOOG) and other AI stocks. It notes after-market prices on Feb. 4, 2026 and frames Alphabet within a wider AI rally. The report describes a little-known technology dubbed an Indispensable Monopoly that Nvidia and Intel reportedly need. The piece asks whether AI could spark the world's first trillionaire. It cites The Motley Fool Stock Advisor team's list of top stocks, including historic winners such as Netflix and Nvidia, and contrasts their returns with the S&P 500. Disclosures show Jose Najarro holds Alphabet and Nvidia; The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Nvidia, and Broadcom, with an affiliate relationship noted.

Consultancies forecast fastest growth in years on AI boom

February 22, 2026, 1:00 AM EST. Consulting firms are signaling the strongest growth in years as corporate spending on artificial intelligence accelerates. Industry executives cite surging demand for AI strategy, deployment, data engineering and system integration services. Analysts say the market is being pulled by large-scale AI adoption, cloud platforms, and vendor partnerships, with demand concentrated in financial services, manufacturing and healthcare. Firms are expanding headcount, increasing consulting hours and investing in specialized practice areas to capture cross-vertical opportunities. Some firms warn wage pressures and talent shortages could temper growth, while pricing discipline and efficiency gains help protect margins. The upshot: a sustained uplift in billings and backlogs as AI becomes a core business enabler rather than a discrete project.

BMW gains access to Tesla Superchargers via Electron Vortex Plus adapter

February 22, 2026, 12:36 AM EST. Tesla's Supercharger network is now reachable by non-Tesla EVs using the Electron Vortex Plus adapter that bridges the NACS plug to a CCS inlet. BMW owners with an i4 can charge today; upcoming iX and i5 models will need a software/OTA update to join within the next month or two. The adapter, rated to 500A/1000V and IP67, is rugged and includes thermal protection that can throttle or cut power if it overheats. At stations with dual-side cables, non-Tesla cars can park and plug without awkward reach. The change expands the market for Tesla stations, though not all BMWs are plug-and-play yet.

Nvidia Is the AI Infrastructure Stock Hyperscalers Are Fighting Over for 2026

February 22, 2026, 12:30 AM EST. Nvidia remains central to the AI push of the largest cloud players. Spending by Amazon, Microsoft and Alphabet totaled about $305 billion in 2025 and is expected to rise in 2026. Half of data center outlays go to chips and computing systems, keeping demand for Nvidia's GPUs high. Nvidia's data center revenue rose 66% year over year to $51 billion in its fiscal Q3, accounting for 89% of revenue; a Q4 pull is seen around 67% YoY. CEO Jensen Huang calls this a virtuous cycle of AI. The company struck a deal with OpenAI to deploy at least 10 gigawatts of AI data centers powered by Nvidia, signaling large-scale investment by hyperscalers. The stock trades near 24x forward earnings, with analysts predicting strong growth and durable margins despite rising chip competition, including Rubin and Blackwell evolutions.

Nvidia RTX 5090 Ti / Titan Blackwell specs leak signal power-hungry flagship

February 22, 2026, 12:12 AM EST. According to Moore's Law is Dead, Nvidia has reportedly been developing a flagship RTX 50 Blackwell GPU since early 2025. The model, tentatively labeled RTX 5090 Ti or RTX Titan Blackwell, allegedly carries around 5% more CUDA cores than the RTX 5090 and a much higher power limit. Early talks pin a standard TDP (thermal design power) of 700-750W, with prototypes hitting 1,000W. Tests reportedly showed about a 10% speed gain over the RTX 5090, and the final launch could exceed high-power partners like MSI Lightning Z and ASUS ROG Matrix due to more cores, faster memory, and aggressive binning, potentially delivering a 15-20% uplift over stock RTX 5090. Nvidia could still cancel the project before launch; a release window in Q3 2026 has been floated. Discussion threads on OC3D Forums.