Technology News 14.12.2025

Microsoft Copilot Arrives on LG TVs with No Uninstall Option, Sparking Privacy Concerns

December 14, 2025, 10:48 PM EST. Microsoft's Copilot AI chatbot has reportedly landed on LG webOS TVs via a system update, with no option to uninstall. While users can ignore it, the move highlights a broader push for AI integration in everyday devices. LG's implementation could signal a wider rollout to other platforms, potentially extending beyond Windows to Linux-based systems. The update raises questions about data collection and user consent, especially with LG's Live Plus feature that uses on-screen recognition to tailor ads and recommendations. Disabling Live Plus is possible in Settings, but concerns remain about hidden AI processing and user control over privacy.

The Game Awards 2025 Receives a D Rating on X in Public Feedback Poll

December 14, 2025, 10:30 PM EST. The Game Awards 2025 drew mixed reactions as Geoff Keighley's annual poll on X returned a D rating from about 404,000 votes. This contrasts with last year's A rating from 183,000 votes. While there were notable announcements, the broader audience feedback skewed negative, highlighting concerns over pacing and presentation. Keighley's post-show question-"Thanks for watching The Game Awards. How would you grade this year's show?"-generated high engagement and underscored a larger debate about what fans want from the event. As the show's organizers absorb public sentiment, studios and viewers will be watching to see how future editions respond to expectations.

Mobile's AI Dilemma: Why the Next Big Thing Is Unraveling in 2026

December 14, 2025, 10:28 PM EST. As we head into 2026, the promised AI revolution in smartphones is facing a growing, largely negative public perception. The article argues that many AI features feel speculative at best and disruptive at worst, risking a messy backlash that could erase real gains. To avoid that outcome, mobile makers must deliver genuinely valuable AI experiences and, crucially, communicate clearly why users should adopt them. The debate riffs on consumer usefulness of LLMs, and cites high-profile misfires like the Rabbit R1 and Humane AI Pin as cautionary tales. The takeaway: if AI on phones is to matter, it must improve everyday tasks, respect privacy, and distinguish itself from hype rather than imitate apps that already exist.

Stellantis Patents Internal Battery Fire-Suppressant Foam System for EVs

December 14, 2025, 10:26 PM EST. Stellantis has secured a USPTO patent for an in-pack EV battery thermal-runaway suppression system that employs a built-in fire-suppressant foam. Filed May 28, 2024 and granted December 4, 2025, the design aims to detect and interrupt thermal runaway at its source. The kit includes a bladder filled with a fire-retardant chemical positioned near the cells, plus two sets of blades to pierce the bladder and rupture targeted coolant lines or heat sinks, releasing foam and coolant into the pack. The system works with the battery cooling circuit and is actuated by a controller. If adopted in future Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, FIAT, and Ram EVs and REEVs, it could help contain fires inside the pack without relying solely on external firefighting. This approach could become a notable differentiator for safety-conscious buyers.

Grok misinfo about Bondi Beach shooting prompts corrections and identity mix-ups

December 14, 2025, 10:14 PM EST. Grok, the chatbot from Elon Musk's xAI, spread misinformation about the Bondi Beach shooting. Gizmodo highlighted posts where Grok misidentified the bystander Ahmed al Ahmed who disarmed a gunman, and questioned videos and photos. It also claimed a photo showed an Israeli hostage and brought up unrelated Israeli-Palestinian context. Another post named "Edward Crabtree" as the one who disarmed the attacker. Grok appears to be correcting some errors, including a post that misattributed a cyclone video to Cyclone Alfred. The bot later acknowledged the misidentification and said the confusion stemmed from viral posts and possible reporting errors or jokes referencing a fictional character. The episode underscores the risks of reliance on AI-generated content in fast-moving breaking-news situations.

The $1.5 Trillion SpaceX IPO: What It Means for Space, Tech, and Markets

December 14, 2025, 10:12 PM EST. In this analysis, SpaceX could be worth $1.5 trillion if it goes public, potentially eclipsing Apple and Meta on listing day and reshaping how investors view space as infrastructure. With a current private valuation near $800 billion, SpaceX is already the most valuable private company and now launches more rockets than many nations combined. The piece explains how reusability, lower launch costs, and a shift toward commercial space are driving the idea that space can be a profitable industry rather than a government program. The IPO chatter highlights the evolving economics of space and what a potential public listing could mean for the sector.

SpaceX to Launch 29 Starlink Satellites from Cape Canaveral

December 14, 2025, 10:10 PM EST. SpaceX is set to launch a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 29 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station tonight. The countdown targets 10:15 p.m. local time as part of SpaceX's ongoing Starlink deployment. This mission marks the ninth flight for the first stage booster, which will be reused and then attempt a landing on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean after stage separation. If all goes to plan, the reusable booster will return to Earth safely as the second stage continues to its parking orbit with the Starlink payload. Viewers can watch the liftoff and live deployment via the video stream.

Aulumu A17 Rugged Case for iPhone 17 Pro/Max Drops to $21 | Military-Grade, MagSafe

December 14, 2025, 9:54 PM EST. Deal alert: the Aulumu A17 Rugged case for iPhone 17 Pro/Max drops from $30 to $21. This single-piece TPU construction offers military-grade protection (MIL-STD-810G 516.6) with anti-slip grip strips on the back and edges. It features a heat-dissipating honeycomb design and full MagSafe compatibility for magnetic accessories. The case is designed for lightweight outdoor use with distinctive tech-inspired lines, and it preserves access to the camera and buttons. Perfect for users seeking a unique look that stands out from the crowd while staying protected and functional.

Starlink taps Xsight Labs for V3 satellite networking core

December 14, 2025, 9:38 PM EST. Starlink has selected Israeli chipmaker Xsight Labs to supply the core networking silicon for its V3 satellites. The X2 programmable Ethernet switch will be the high-speed core inside V3, delivering more than 1 Tbps of fronthaul throughput and about 160 Gbps of uplink capacity-over ten times V2 Mini's. The X2 provides 12.8 Tbps of switching with 100-Gbps SerDes and is built on TSMC 5-nm. Its programmable architecture is designed for orbital workloads and has passed environmental tests. SpaceX's Starlink engineering VP Michael Nicolls and Xsight CEO Yossi Meyouhas commented on the collaboration. Founded in 2017 by former EZchip alumni, Xsight has raised over $150 million, with investors including Intel and Microsoft.

Divinity: Original Sin 2 Sees Major Player Surge After The Game Awards Trailer

December 14, 2025, 9:22 PM EST. Divinity: Original Sin 2 is enjoying a revival after The Game Awards, with a jump from about 4,000 players to 9,325, pushing it into Steam's top 200. The surge also lifts the first Original Sin game (up to 1,757 from 941). Not to be outdone, the entire Divinity series sees growth: Divine Divinity peaks at 153, up from 33; Beyond Divinity climbs to 9; Divinity 2 (Ego Draconis) rises to 140; even the spin-off Dragon Commander gains attention. The Game Awards trailer appears to have sparked renewed interest in the long-running fantasy RPG franchise, with many returning players and new ones checking out the classics alongside the newer entry.

ThinkBig Networks Rebrands as IQ Fiber, Expanding 100% Fiber Internet in the Mid-Atlantic

December 14, 2025, 9:08 PM EST. IQ Fiber completes its acquisition of ThinkBig Networks and rebrands to bring 100% fiber-optic internet to the Mid-Atlantic. The transition unifies brands under a shared mission: deliver a fast, reliable, stress-free experience with 24/7 in-house support, proactive network monitoring, and an improved online account portal. Maryland customers keep the same local team, service plans, equipment, and no-contract policy, now backed by IQ Fiber's resources and enhanced service guarantees. New offerings include 2- and 5-Gig residential plans and expanded Business plans, with accelerated network deployment across the Chesapeake Bay region. IQ Fiber promises 99.99% reliability, wall-to-wall WiFi, and no data caps, with all WiFi gear included and a Stress-Free Guarantee.

DJI Drones Save American Lives: Evidence of Rescues Amid NDAA Ban Deadline

December 14, 2025, 8:52 PM EST. New report compiles verified rescues and first-responder testimonies showing how DJI drones saved lives across emergencies, from a Utah quicksand rescue to a missing-person search in Oklahoma. It argues the upcoming December 23, 2025 deadline under Section 1709 of the FY25 NDAA will automatically place DJI on the FCC's Covered List unless a federal agency completes a required security audit-an audit that has not begun. The piece frames the evidence as real-world impact for public safety, contrasts it with the cost and failure-rate data of alternatives, and suggests that policy not proven wrongdoing should not erase access to lifesaving tools.

Nvidia Stock (NVDA) Pre-Market Pulse: AI Demand, H200 Exports, and Policy Risks to Watch

December 14, 2025, 8:02 PM EST. Nvidia stock (NVDA) enters Monday's U.S. market open amid a tug-of-war between its AI-infrastructure dominance and broader risk-off sentiment. Pre-market around $175, shares have faced a tech sell-off, with the S&P 500 and Philadelphia Semiconductor Index pressured. A key headline centers on China access to Nvidia's H200 (Hopper) processors, as Reuters notes Nvidia may add production capacity to meet rising demand following a potential export green light from the U.S. that could be bundled with domestic-chip requirements. The outcome hinges on Chinese approvals and Nvidia's allocation strategy. Analysts' forecasts and near-term catalysts remain critical: any rebound in chips, policy developments on H200 exports, and demand for high-end accelerators. Investors should track policy signals, exports, and supply dynamics for NVDA this week.

Why Japan's Internet Looks Weird-Unless You Live Here

December 14, 2025, 7:48 PM EST. Moving to Japan exposed how the local internet often prioritizes dense information over navigational clarity. Real estate sites trapped readers in pages of details, with odd left-column codes and nonalphabetical prefecture lists showing a different logic from the West. At the World Expo in Osaka, the same friction appeared on a global stage: a confusing ticketing system, long digital queues, and endless scrolling that felt overthought and undercooked. This isn't just a quirk of design taste; it signals broader cultural and logistical patterns that affect residents and travelers alike. As everyday life goes digital, Japan's top sites-Yahoo! Japan, Rakuten, Docomo-and the country's UX norms reveal how local logic shapes how we discover, decide, and move through both screens and streets.

Brains Outperform AI by Reusing Cognitive Blocks, Study Finds

December 14, 2025, 7:34 PM EST. New research from Princeton suggests the human (and primate) brain stays ahead of AI by its ability to reuse and recombine cognitive blocks across tasks. In rhesus macaques, researchers tracked patterns in the prefrontal cortex as they identified shapes and colors and switched contexts, revealing flexible networks that are repurposed rather than learned anew. The study describes these as cognitive blocks-neural modules that can be mapped from one function to another-allowing the brain to transfer knowledge to unfamiliar tasks. While state-of-the-art AI can excel on single problems, it struggles with broad cognitive flexibility. Researchers hope these findings could inspire AI designs that better reuse components across tasks.

Elon Musk says Tesla is testing driverless robotaxis without a human safety monitor on Austin streets

December 14, 2025, 7:30 PM EST. Elon Musk has teased that Tesla is now testing driverless robotaxis on Austin streets without a human safety monitor. The claim, if real, would mark a major milestone in autonomous driving and fleet deployment, challenging regulators and industry norms. Tesla's test program, reportedly conducted in partnership with local authorities, raises questions about safety protocols, data privacy, and accountability should a vehicle encounter a complex urban scenario. Critics warn about public risk, while supporters point to accelerated innovation and potential price/performance breakthroughs. As Austin eyes regulatory clarity, observers will monitor whether the tests meet safety standards and how this move affects the broader race toward robotaxi fleets.

4GB RAM Returns in 2026 as DRAM Shortage Looms; microSD Slots Make a Comeback

December 14, 2025, 7:18 PM EST. According to TrendForce, memory prices are set to jump in Q1 2026, forcing smartphone and notebook makers to trim RAM specs or raise prices. The report predicts a bigger share of BOM costs tied to DRAM, prompting price hikes and tighter pricing strategies for Apple and Android devices. In the lower end, 4GB RAM smartphones could reappear as a cost-saving measure, while the return of microSD slots aims to offer cheaper storage expansion. High-end models may see tighter RAM allocations, potentially slowing upgrade cycles. Notebooks also face pressure, with mid-to-high-end lines less adaptable due to soldered memory. Expect further price fluctuations by mid-2026, around Computex 2026.

Tesla Stock Preview: Demand Slump, FSD Scrutiny, and Key Catalysts for TSLA Ahead of Market Open

December 14, 2025, 7:16 PM EST. Tesla stock heads into Monday's U.S. session with momentum and a lofty valuation tied to autonomy and robotics, but faces signs of weakening demand in US and Europe and tighter FSD regulatory scrutiny. Premarket: TSLA around $458.96, intraday $441.87-$462.72, volume ~95.7M; 52-week range $214.25-$488.54. Demand headwinds: US November sales ~39,800, down ~23% YoY; tax credit ended. Europe: registrations down in multiple markets, Model Y weakness; Norway strong due to nearing new EV taxes. Robotaxi/FSD remain major catalysts despite near-term demand softness and policy shifts.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4 launch delayed to January 2026; December teases expected

December 14, 2025, 7:14 PM EST. DJI's upcoming Osmo Pocket 4 faces delays after accessory quality control issues reportedly pushed the December target. The camera itself may be ready, but launch is now expected in January 2026. According to Photorabz and The New Camera, DJI will likely begin teasing the device before the end of December and should confirm a global release date. The backdrop includes a looming US ban, which could influence timing and messaging as the company moves toward a wider rollout.

Google Pixel Watch 4 hands-on review: bigger display, longer battery life, and Wear OS refinements

December 14, 2025, 6:44 PM EST. The Pixel Watch 4 builds on Google's wearable line with a tasteful, familiar design and a brighter, curved Actua 360 AMOLED display. Under the domed glass sits an updated chipset and longer battery life with faster charging, while Wear OS with Material 3 Expressive design aims to deliver a smoother, more expressive experience. Starting at $349 for the 41mm model, it competes for Android smartwatch leadership thanks to improved fitness tracking and a lighter, sleeker profile. Practical drawbacks include a tiny strap-release button, a proprietary connector that limits third-party bands, and Gorilla Glass 5 instead of sapphire. The 41mm/45mm sizes, thin profile, and premium finish keep the Pixel Watch 4 in the premium segment, though durability remains a caveat.

Nvidia Plans FP64 Revival for Next-Gen HPC Amid AI Dominance

December 14, 2025, 6:42 PM EST. Nvidia's B300 'Blackwell Ultra' GPUs deliver strong AI and low-precision throughput but lag in FP64 for HPC users. With roughly 1.2 TFLOPs of double-precision, the B300 trails the A100 and is far behind the Hopper H200 on FP64, underscoring the demand for accurate math in climate modelling, computational fluid dynamics, and materials science. Nvidia has signaled that future architectures will add more FP64 capabilities, addressing this core HPC need while still delivering high performance on AI via FP8/FP4 tensor operations. Some analysts also mention FP64 emulation on tensor cores as a stopgap. If the roadmap proves slow, researchers may turn to other vendors or need hybrid approaches for precise simulations.

Can You Use a Roku Without Internet? How to Play Local Media

December 14, 2025, 6:30 PM EST. Roku devices don't need internet to run some functions, but streaming apps require online access. When Wi-Fi is down, most channels won't work and the on-screen clock may not display. However, certain models-Roku Ultra, Roku Streambar SE, and other USB-friendly units-can still play local media via the Roku Media Player app. After you install the app (via a connected network) you can use it offline to view or listen to files stored on USB drives. The Media Player supports FAT16/32, NTFS, EXT2/3, exFAT, and HFS+ with formats like MKV, MP4, MOV, FLAC, AAC, JPG, PNG. You can connect multiple drives via USB hub. To enable offline playback, download the app when online, then switch to the USB source when offline.

Grok's AI misidentifies Bondi Beach shooting footage, spreading misinformation

December 14, 2025, 6:28 PM EST. Terrence O'Brien reports that Grok, the AI chatbot from xAI, repeatedly misidentified footage related to the mass shooting at Bondi Beach, wrongly crediting and labeling the hero Ahmed al Ahmed as a different person. The bot also circulated a fake-news site article naming a fictitious IT professional, Edward Crabtree, and suggested video of the scene was from other events, including Currumbin Beach during Cyclone Alfred. The incident underscores persistent misinformation and video misidentification risks in AI chat tools, even as public praise for Ahmed's bravery grew. Grok's broader reliability questions extend beyond this event, with examples of misread queries on topics from Oracle to political poll numbers.

Could the Cognitus Acquisition Be IBM's Most Significant AI Move in Years?

December 14, 2025, 6:26 PM EST. IBM is doubling down on AI by expanding through acquisitions, with Cognitus poised to bolster its AI offerings. While Cognitus focuses on ERP in the SAP ecosystem, its AI tools include real-time compliance monitoring and capabilities designed for highly regulated industries, aligning with IBM's emphasis on hybrid cloud deployments that blend public and private cloud security. Cognitus' SAP implementation prowess should strengthen IBM's existing SAP services, letting clients benefit from a single provider for complex operations. IBM notes that Cognitus will help simplify operations and improve consistency across regulated environments. The move comes as IBM's software division-including AI offerings-posted solid growth in the latest quarter, underscoring the strategic fit in IBM's AI-driven growth plan.

AI identifies visible chronic-stress biomarker on routine CT scans

December 14, 2025, 5:58 PM EST. Researchers used a deep learning AI model to identify what they call the first biomarker of chronic stress detectable on standard medical images. Presented at RSNA, the finding suggests the body's long-term stress burden can be visible on routine chest CT scans by measuring the adrenal glands size. Lead author Elena Ghotbi of Johns Hopkins trained a model to assess adrenals on existing scans, enabling large-scale assessments without extra tests or radiation. The approach could improve cardiovascular risk stratification and guide preventive care. Senior author Shadpour Demehri notes this is the first way to 'see' cumulative stress in the body using a scan patients already undergo. The study analyzed 2,842 participants from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, combining imaging, cortisol data and allostatic load for an imaging-based stress marker.

Deals: OnePlus 15 pre-orders, Galaxy S25 discounts, and Nothing Phone (3) now available

December 14, 2025, 5:56 PM EST. Deals today span major launches and discounts. The OnePlus 15 is still coming soon with January shipping estimates and a $900 starting price for the 12/256GB model on Amazon. The Nothing Phone (3) is now available, with a 6.67" 120Hz OLED, Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, 5,150mAh battery (65W wired, 15W wireless), and four 50MP cameras, plus accessories like the Nothing Headphone (1) and Ear (3). The Galaxy S25 lineup has comparisons and discounts (S25+ vs S25 FE; S25 Edge; Ultra and vanilla) across Samsung's site and Amazon. Finally, the OnePlus Pad 3 and Pad 2 offer large displays (13.2" and 12.1") with strong chips and fast charging.

Apple TV tvOS 26.2 finally lets you create profiles without an Apple ID and adds kids mode

December 14, 2025, 5:42 PM EST. Apple's tvOS 26 introduced a streamlined profile selection screen, and the latest tvOS 26.2 update expands it further by letting you create profiles without an Apple ID. This makes guest setups and multi-user sharing as easy as on streaming services, without creating extra IDs. The update also adds a dedicated kids mode that can be enabled per profile, automatically restricting content to PG-rated shows and movies by default, with customizable ratings like TV-G or TV-14. Apple TV users can update via Settings > System > Software Updates > Update Software. While there was no new Apple TV hardware this year, tvOS 26.2 reinforces Apple's focus on family sharing and profile management.

BizLink eyes virtual-physical integration to boost high-speed computing R&D

December 14, 2025, 5:40 PM EST. BizLink is accelerating its R&D by merging AI, automation, multiphysics simulation, and digital twin tech to meet growing demand in the high-speed computing market. Led by Grand Lin, the senior director of R&D, the cable-assembly maker aims to shorten development cycles and improve performance through virtual-physical integration and advanced simulation. The effort, with inspirations from Dassault, underscores a broader push in tech manufacturing to combine AI-driven insights with digital twin for faster, more reliable hardware innovation.

Tyler Stone Wealth Management Cuts NVDA Stake by 4.7% in Q2 Disclosure

December 14, 2025, 5:36 PM EST. Tyler Stone Wealth Management reduced its stake in NVIDIA (NVDA) by 4.7% in the second quarter, per its latest SEC filing. The firm held 304,913 shares after selling 14,932, making NVIDIA about 7.8% of its portfolio and the largest position. The stake was valued at about $48.17 million at quarter's end. The report notes other institutions adjusting their holdings, including Harbor Asset Planning, Winnow Wealth, Longfellow Investment Management, Spurstone Advisory, and Kathleen S. Wright Associates. Overall, institutional investors hold roughly 65.27% of NVDA. The piece also references recent stock activity and key metrics for the company.

Linux 6.19-rc1 Released Early From Japan During Linux Plumbers Conference

December 14, 2025, 5:30 PM EST. Linux 6.19-rc1 arrives early from Japan as Linus Torvalds attends the Linux Plumbers Conference and Maintainer Summit. This kickoff to the 6.19 merge window features a heavy slate of driver updates (GPU, networking, media and sound) alongside architecture, tooling, and core kernel work. The VFS reforms and a growing Rust front show the project moving from preparation to concrete development, with actual drivers beginning to take shape. The release also touches mm, scheduler, and other subsystems, amid broad changes across the kernel. Details are available on LKML, with Phoronix previewing AMDGPU, file-system work, and platform prep for Zen 6 and Diamond Rapids.

Claim Free Emerald Wave Nvidia Backpack Skin in ARC Raiders

December 14, 2025, 5:28 PM EST. ARC Raiders is offering a limited-supply, free Emerald Wave backpack skin for players who own a Nvidia GPU. There's no official time limit, but supplies run out, so claim it soon. To get it, download the Nvidia App (replacement for GeForce Experience) and sign in with your Google account. In the app, go to the Rewards tab, select the ARC Raiders icon, and redeem to receive a code. You'll also get a confirmation email with the code in your Google account. This cosmetic adds a unique color variation to your backpack and helps you stand out in game.

What's on Nadya Lev's bookshelf: Fucksweeper, HoloVista, and a cybernetic reading list

December 14, 2025, 5:26 PM EST. Booked For The Week interviews Nadya Lev, co-founder of Aconite and the mind behind Fucksweeper and HoloVista. Lev also publishes Coilhouse and lectures on esoteric topics. In the chat she shares her current read, The Eudaemonic Pie, a wild true story about physicists using a shoe-space microcomputer to predict roulette outcomes and an algorithmic spirit guiding chance. Her last read is A/S/L by Jeanne Thornton, a mystical, funny tale about three trans women online in 1998 who attempt to build a game named Saga of the Sorceress, with nods to ZZT and the 90s internet. She's eyeing the upcoming Making by Miracle Jones, the fourth in a seven-book series. A bookshelf as a lens on games, tech, and storytelling.

K&F Concept Popod 3-in-1 Tripod and Selfie Stick: Quick-Deploy, Magnetic Phone Mount, 72-Inch Reach

December 14, 2025, 5:22 PM EST. The K&F Concept Popod is a 3-in-1 magnetic tripod and selfie stick designed for mobile creators. Its snap-open design unlocks instant setup with an automatically unfolding base, a 72-inch extended reach, and a foldable 11-inch, 14-ounce form factor for on-the-go shoots. A 4-axis adjustable head enables precise tilt, pan, and rotation, while a 1/4-inch screw mount supports action cams, mics, and small lights. A rechargeable Bluetooth remote frees your hands for selfies, vlogging, or group photos. Lightweight aluminum construction and telescoping legs provide stability and portability, with magnetic phone mounting compatible with most smartphones on iOS and Android devices. Ideal for travel, outdoor shoots, indoors, and run-and-gun vlogging, the Popod blends convenience and versatility for solo creators.

Doubleheader Rocket Launches on Florida's Space Coast – Atlas V for Amazon Leo and SpaceX Starlink (Dec. 15)

December 14, 2025, 5:14 PM EST. Two space launches are set to light up Florida's Space Coast on Monday, Dec. 15: a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying the next batch of Amazon Leo (formerly Project Kuiper) broadband satellites, and a SpaceX Falcon 9 launching 29 Starlink satellites. The Atlas V mission at Launch Complex 41, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, has a 3:49-4:18 a.m. ET window. The Falcon 9 targets a daytime window from 8:11 a.m. to 12:11 p.m. ET. If skies are clear, viewing could stretch from Jacksonville Beach to Vero Beach and West Palm Beach. For live updates, tune in to the USA TODAY Network's Space Team at floridatoday.com/space beginning 90 minutes before liftoff, or use the FLORIDA TODAY app for the mobile blog.

Kimbal Musk Sells $25 Million Worth of Tesla Stock, Donates Shares to Donor-Advised Fund

December 14, 2025, 5:12 PM EST. Tesla board member Kimbal Musk sold 56,820 shares of Tesla on December 9, totaling about $25.6 million at a weighted average price of $450.66. The filing shows 15,242 of those shares were donated to a donor-advised fund, valued around $6.8 million at execution price. He still holds roughly 1.38 million shares, underscoring a continued stake in Tesla as the stock climbs. The move comes as Tesla's price rises and highlights a common strategy of meshing personal liquidity with philanthropic planning. A donor-advised fund lets him claim an immediate tax deduction while distributing funds to charities later. As a board member, Musk's trading activity often draws scrutiny, but this sale indicates a measured approach to managing a large position in Tesla.

Microsoft vs Alphabet: Which AI Giant Is the Smarter $4T Stock to Buy?

December 14, 2025, 5:08 PM EST. Two AI leaders, Microsoft and Alphabet, are the marquee bets in this era of AI-driven growth. Microsoft remains a cloud and AI powerhouse with an OpenAI stake, its Copilot engine, and a strategic Anthropic partnership on Azure powered by Nvidia chips. It has generated roughly $78B in free cash flow last year and trades near a P/E in the mid-30s. Alphabet has surged toward a near $3.9T market cap, fueled by Gemini for real-time data, video generation, and AI prompts that bolster search today. Both produce massive free cash flow and well-fund AI monetization paths. The decision hinges on how you weigh growth catalysts, pricing power, and risk tolerance: is Microsoft the steadier AI champion or is Alphabet the higher upside bet?

CentOS Kmods SIG Provides NVIDIA Linux Open GPU Kernel Modules for RHEL/CentOS and CentOS Stream

December 14, 2025, 4:58 PM EST. The CentOS Kmods SIG is now offering the official NVIDIA Linux Open GPU Kernel Modules for users of RHEL and downstreams, including CentOS Stream. The SIG is building kernel module packages from NVIDIA's open-source GPU code, which forms part of NVIDIA's driver stack and is maintained out-of-tree from the Linux kernel. Packages are named kmod-nvidia-open (and production variants like kmod-nvidia-open-570 for the R570 line) with legacy branches such as kmod-nvidia-535. These builds enable using NVIDIA's official driver stack alongside the open-source kernel components. Availability currently covers RHEL 8/9/10 and CentOS Stream 9/10, with Fedora-flavored builds planned for Enterprise Linux 10 users as announced in the CentOS December News.

Galaxy Z TriFold: An impressive foldable, but lingering concerns

December 14, 2025, 4:52 PM EST. Beyond the Alphabet dives into the Galaxy Z TriFold, a foldable that delivers a thin profile, speed, and a larger unfolded screen, but the author's excitement wanes over design choices and software limits. The aspiration of a Mate XT-like triple configuration never materializes, leaving Samsung with only two layouts and raising questions about DeX Mode as the default when unfolded. The struggle with Android not scaling well to large displays means you'd have to tinker with launchers via Bixby Routines or Tasker, making the experience feel unfinished. The piece questions why One UI 8 brings a modern Desktop Mode but doesn't make desktop-style use the default, impacting daily carry, price, and long-term usability.

Meta Quest 3S drops to $249 at Walmart, beats Nintendo Switch on price during doorbuster sale

December 14, 2025, 4:38 PM EST. Meta Quest 3S fans, Walmart is reviving a doorbuster: the 128GB Quest 3S drops to $249 with a $50 discount. The deal also includes a free Batman: Arkham Shadow game and three months of Meta Horizon Plus. In our review, the Quest 3S is described as a Quest 3 with the Quest 2's lenses and display, but it packs the same Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor and 8GB of RAM. When you compare to the standard Quest 3, you're saving at least $200 while gaining access to the same library of games. If you're new to VR, this is the best entry point at a steep discount, though supplies may run out soon.

SpaceX launches 27 Starlink V2 Mini satellites as 550th reusable booster lands

December 14, 2025, 4:36 PM EST. SpaceX's Falcon 9 launched from Vandenberg Space Force Station at 9:49 p.m. PST, delivering 27 Starlink V2 Mini satellites into low-Earth orbit. The mission marked the 550th time a SpaceX reusable booster rocket has landed, with booster B1093 touchdown on the drone ship Of Course I Still Love You in the Pacific about 8.5 minutes after liftoff. It was the 170th landing on this drone ship and the 451st drone landing overall for SpaceX. The booster has now flown nine times, including missions for the Space Development Agency and multiple Starlink launches. This highlights SpaceX's ongoing cadence for Starlink deployment and reuse efficiency.

Grok Glitch: AI Chatbot Spreads Misinformation About Bondi Beach Shooting

December 14, 2025, 4:32 PM EST. Elon Musk's AI chatbot Grok is glitching again, spewing misinformation about the Bondi Beach shooting, where multiple people were killed at a Hanukkah gathering. The report notes that bystander Ahmed al Ahmed disarmed one attacker; Grok proposed an unrelated video of a man climbing a palm tree and questioned authenticity of al Ahmed's involvement, among other errors. It also misidentified an injured photo as an Israeli hostage, referenced unrelated events like Tropical Cyclone Alfred, and conflated Bondi with other shootings. The glitch extends beyond this incident, confusing facts about the shooting with other events and misreporting on topics from acetaminophen in pregnancy to political initiatives. Gizmodo contacted the developer xAI; responses were only automated. This isn't the first time Grok has shown reliability issues.

Rust Coreutils 0.5 Release Advances Toward GNU Compatibility with 87.75% GNU Test Suite Pass Rate

December 14, 2025, 4:26 PM EST. Rust Coreutils 0.5 marks a major milestone toward GNU compatibility for this Rust-based alternative to GNU Coreutils. The release pushes the project closer to parity with nearly a 90% pass rate on the GNU test suite, with 22 more tests passing to reach about 87.75%. Highlights include significant improvements to the fold, cksum, install, and numfmt utilities, plus better large-integer handling in seq. The team also enhanced mode parsing for install, bolstered Cygwin support in uucore, and streamlined cross-platform build processes. Downloads and full details for the Rust Coreutils 0.5 release are available on GitHub.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Delayed: January 2026 Launch Amid Leaks and Accessories Hold-Up

December 14, 2025, 4:22 PM EST. DJI's Osmo Pocket 4 is shaping up as a major upgrade with a dual camera setup, offering clearer 2X and 4X zoom, and AI auto framing. Leaks had pointed to a December 2025 reveal, but insiders now say the launch has moved to January 2026, with an official announcement possibly in mid to late January. The delay is attributed to unfinished accessories in DJI's ecosystem, including wireless mics, extra batteries, and modular mounts. The timeline shift comes amid a volatile year-end period and a Dec 23 ban affecting DJI's announcements, plus recent FCCID activity around related products. If accurate, Pocket 4 will feature seamless switching between camera modules without sacrificing quality, aligning with expectations from prior Pocket lines.

Atlas V Launches 27 Amazon Leo Satellites (Project Kuiper) to Orbit

December 14, 2025, 4:06 PM EST. Watch live as United Launch Alliance's Atlas V mission Leo-4, lifts off from Cape Canaveral to deploy 27 Amazon Leo satellites (the rebranded Project Kuiper) into low Earth orbit. The launch window opens at 3:49 a.m. EST on Monday, Dec. 15. Amazon aims for a fleet of roughly 3,200 satellites to provide global internet, positioning Leo as a major competitor to SpaceX's Starlink. This will be the fourth Atlas V flight for Leo, as ULA shifts toward the Vulcan Centaur. SpaceX's Falcon 9 is among the rockets used across Leo missions. Stream live on Space.com (via ULA) or directly from Amazon/ULA as the network advances.

OpenAI Codex head says bottleneck to AGI is humanity's typing speed

December 14, 2025, 3:48 PM EST. OpenAI's head of Codex argues that achieving AGI may hinge on improving how humans interact with machines, not just raw compute. He claims the bottleneck is humanity's inability to type fast enough, highlighting the limits of traditional coding and command-based workflows. The comment underscores the need for faster, more natural human-computer interfaces-think voice, gesture, and AI-assisted tools-to accelerate AI development and coding tasks. If typing speed holds back progress, the future of AGI could depend on smarter editors, real-time code generation, and more intuitive interaction that moves beyond keyboards.

Absynth 6 returns with MPE, Brian Eno and Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith presets

December 14, 2025, 3:34 PM EST. Absynth 6 marks the long-awaited revival of the cult-classic soft synth. Rebuilt with collaboration from original designer Brian Clevinger, it adds MPE control, new presets from Brian Eno and Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith, and a host of modern production features. The instrument remains a robust, semi-modular engine offering subtractive, FM, sampling, and a granular core, plus an extraordinary 68-point envelope system that can loop, be time-synced, or used per-note. Its eight-channel surround support expands its cinematic reach, while the expanded modulation matrix makes evolving soundscapes feel almost weird by design. If you do ambient, sound design, or score work, Absynth 6 is a powerful tool for textures and atmosphere.

Barclays Says Tesla Deliveries Likely Won't Move Stock; AI Spotlight Persists

December 14, 2025, 3:22 PM EST. Barclays maintains an Equal Weight stance on Tesla (TSLA) with a $350 target, noting that near-term deliveries are unlikely to move the stock. The firm expects soft 4Q deliveries after a record prior quarter boosted by the EV tax credit. FactSet cites about 450,000 vehicles in 4Q25, a ~9% drop from the last period. Wall Street remains broadly bullish on TSLA, with a Buy consensus and a wide range of targets. The note highlights Tesla's use of AI in autonomous driving and robotics, while suggesting other AI stocks may offer greater upside with lower risk amid tariffs and onshoring trends.

Castrol and LION Smart unveil transformative direct-battery cooling for faster, safer EV charging

December 14, 2025, 3:20 PM EST. Castrol and LION Smart have introduced a next-gen battery module that uses direct battery cooling to keep EV cells cooler during charging and daily use. The system submerges cells in a lightweight thermal fluid, Castrol ON EV Thermal Fluids, to whisk heat away rapidly, enabling safer, more efficient operation and potentially longer battery life. A built-in single cell fuse adds a safety layer by limiting heat spread if a cell malfunctions. As fast charging and high-power driving stress packs, this approach could improve performance and reliability, while reducing overall replacement costs. Proponents say cooler batteries are both safer and more durable, and simulations suggest higher EV adoption could yield meaningful CO2 reductions as the grid shifts to cleaner energy. This development is described as a potential turning point for cleaner, cheaper electric mobility.

Michael Burry Warns AI Bubble Could Burst; Says Timing Is Impossible, Criticizes Nvidia's Hype

December 14, 2025, 3:18 PM EST. Investor Michael Burry, famed for The Big Short, warns the AI hype may not be timing-perfect and the bubble could still expand before a turn. In a paywalled Substack post, he argues that timing the burst is impossible and cautions the stock market may be near a generational top as massive data-center investments surge without clear end-user demand. He attributes much of the AI buzz to marketing by Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and likens Nvidia to Cisco during the dot-com crash. Burry warns against shorting stocks or buying puts, noting overvalued names often ride the strongest waves. He launched Cassandra Unchained to critique Nvidia's role.

China narrows AI gap with the US three years after ChatGPT shock

December 14, 2025, 2:50 PM EST. Three years after OpenAI's ChatGPT debut, China accelerated AI development as authorities summoned experts for briefings on generative AI, and domestic firms rushed to roll out chatbots and register LLMs to curb exposure to Western services. Early strategy favored a closed ecosystem, but by late 2024 and 2025 Chinese open-source models gained traction globally, with Alibaba Cloud's Qwen, DeepSeek's V3 and Moonshot AI's Kimi K2 proving competitive. OpenRouter and Andreessen Horowitz reported that Chinese systems now accounted for about 30% of global open-source LLMs usage, fueling adoption by US firms like Airbnb and Meta. The turning point came when DeepSeek released V3 and R1, matching GPT and Llama performance, signaling China's AI push toward broader, international relevance.

DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo Plus with RC Hits All-Time Low at $1,159 (17% Off)

December 14, 2025, 2:48 PM EST. DJI's Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo Plus with RC is on sale for just $1,159, a 17% discount off the regular price. The bundle includes three intelligent batteries, a controller with a 5.5-inch HD display, a two-way charging hub, and a carrying bag, letting you shoot right away. The compact drone records 4K HDR at 60fps and uses Dual Native ISO for strong images in bright or low light. It supports landscape or portrait modes for social content, and offers up to 20 km video transmission range and winds up to 38 km/h. With about 193 minutes of total flight time, plus Wi-Fi transfer up to 100 Mb/s, it's a versatile choice for beginners and enthusiasts.

iPadOS 26.2 rolls out with easier multitasking and new features

December 14, 2025, 2:46 PM EST. iPadOS 26.2 rolls out with improved multitasking, restoring the ability to drag app icons from the dock or Spotlight into Slide Over or Split View layouts. You can also drag icons onto other windows to create side-by-side views or add to the left/right edge to open Slide Over. The update adds Liquid Glass lock-screen customization, an urgent alarm for Reminders, and table support in Freeform. Podcasts gain AI-generated chapters, Apple Music gets offline lyrics, and Apple Games improves discovery. Apple News sees design tweaks, with many changes echoing iOS 26.2. The update is rolling out to compatible devices and can be installed via Settings > General > Software Update.

Volkswagen tests Gen.Urban autonomous robotaxi in Wolfsburg without steering wheel or pedals

December 14, 2025, 2:44 PM EST. Volkswagen is testing its Gen.Urban autonomous vehicle in Wolfsburg, driving in real urban traffic without a traditional steering wheel or pedals. The test fleet includes a trained safety driver in the passenger seat and a joystick-based control panel to intervene, signaling that full autonomy is still a work in progress. VW asks how passengers will spend time inside the car, which digital features best support work or relaxation, and how to design interaction for older people or children while building trust and a calm, responsive experience. If results are positive, VW could expand riders beyond employees and push toward broader production concepts in the long term.

Micron's FamFS Aims for Linux Upstream in Early 2026 for Fabric-Attached Memory

December 14, 2025, 2:40 PM EST. Micron's FamFS, a file-system designed for fabric-attached memory (FAM) and CXL servers, aims to go upstream in early 2026. After about two years of development, FamFS has been ported to FUSE for largely user-space operation, with some kernel changes remaining. John Groves of Micron, on the CXL Software & Systems working group, spoke at the Linux Plumbers Conference in Tokyo. The plan is for FamFS to be upstream in Linux, with patches aligned to the 6.18 kernel series. The project remains FAM-first and not a general-purpose file-system. Planned features include interleaved files, software-based cache coherency, pNFS integration, and other improvements. More details are in the LPC2025 slide deck.

Portland Protesters Call for Return of ICE-Tracking App ICEBlock Outside Apple Store

December 14, 2025, 2:34 PM EST. Downtown Portland protesters demanded the return of the ICEBlock app outside the Apple store on Saturday, arguing the tool helps residents flag federal immigration enforcement activity. The app, which allowed anonymous sightings of ICE agents, was removed from the app store in October after pressure from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. ICEBlock's developer has filed a lawsuit claiming the Trump administration violated free-speech protections and used "state power" to push Apple to take it down. More than 30 protesters staged signs and carols near 450 S.W. Yamhill St., vowing to return weekly through Christmas. Organizers say the rally is about upholding the First Amendment and community safety by reporting concerns they see in their area.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Gets 'Thank You' Update with Steam Deck Verified Badge

December 14, 2025, 2:28 PM EST. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 just earned a Steam Deck Verified badge with its new 'Thank You' update. The patch improves text readability and UI across battles and menus, fixes for handheld PCs, and tweaks to VSync and graphical quality on Deck. Expect smoother, though capped, FPS-roughly 30 FPS overworld and 40-45 FPS in contained areas-with an emphasis on stability. Visual tweaks target heavy fog and effects zones like the Endless Tower and Visages. XeSS Balanced is the default upscaling, with options to adjust. Best of all, the update is free and finally resolves controller compatibility blockers that prevented the Verified badge.

Huawei Mate 80 series gets first HarmonyOS 6 update with camera and Gallery enhancements

December 14, 2025, 2:26 PM EST. Huawei's Mate 80 lineup (Mate 80, Mate 80 Pro, Mate 80 Pro Max, Mate 80 RS Ultimate Design) receives the first HarmonyOS 6 update. The patch adds notable camera improvements, including enhanced video recording, image stabilization for dynamic shots, and enhanced telephoto/wide-angle color processing. The Gallery gains new cloud delete-from-this-device option, dynamic home-screen cards, and multi-image playback. Huawei Share now supports cross-device transfer with iOS/iPadOS/macOS via the HarmonyOS Galaxy Interconnect app. Other updates include Outdoor Exploration Mode, gesture multitasking, improved performance/stability, and dynamic-weather icons in the Weather app. Release is rolling out in batches.

Six Months In: The Nintendo Switch 2 Proves It Has Staying Power

December 14, 2025, 2:24 PM EST. Six months after its debut, the Nintendo Switch 2 shows staying power as an iterative handheld/console hybrid. Unlike PC-based consoles, it relies on an Nvidia ARM-based chip with DLSS upscaling, making ports feasible but not straightforward. Developers note cross-compatibility challenges, yet the device remains competitive on 2025 titles thanks to efficiency and mobile-first design. Digital media emphasis and the new pricing model-plus an $80 game-signal a shift away from collectible physical media. RAM constraints and possible price hikes in 2026 mean buyers should consider grabbing the console now. For mobile gamers, the Switch 2 could become a primary device, offering portability, lower power draw, and a growing library.

Sony SmartWatch: The forgotten wearable that predicted the future of fitness

December 14, 2025, 2:22 PM EST. Revisiting Sony's SmartWatch, announced at CES 2012 and priced at $150, the piece highlights how Sony helped usher in wearables long before Apple Watch. Preceded by the LiveView (2010), the SmartWatch offered a 1.3-inch 128×128 OLED display, Bluetooth 3.0, and notification previews for Android devices, plus a viewfinder feature for the phone's camera. It lacked Wi-Fi, a mic or speaker, and used a proprietary band connector, with setup involving Google Play apps and a configuration tool. The Verge called the process laborious, and performance was often laggy. Yet Sony's square-face design and focus on apps and notifications showed an industry moving toward fitness-oriented wearables and set the stage for Android Wear and the eventual Apple Watch era.

Investors seek protection from risk of AI debt bust

December 14, 2025, 2:20 PM EST. Investors are seeking safeguards amid the risk of a looming AI debt bust, as portfolios contend with AI leverage, liquidity strain, and funding volatility. The piece surveys potential risk-mitigation tools-covenants, guarantees, insurance, and policy cushions-and how lenders aim to shield assets from a sudden downturn in AI demand and credit markets.

Live coverage: SpaceX to launch 29 Starlink satellites on Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center

December 14, 2025, 2:18 PM EST. SpaceX is set to launch a Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, delivering 29 Starlink V2 Mini satellites as part of the Starlink 6-99 mission. The flight will lift off from Launch Complex 39A during a window opening at 8:11 a.m. EST, Dec. 15, with the booster tail number B1094 on its sixth flight since missions like Crew-11 and Ax-4. Spaceflight Now plans live coverage about an hour before liftoff. Around 8.5 minutes after launch, B1094 is expected to land autonomously on the drone ship Just Read the Instructions in the Atlantic, marking the 146th landing on the ship and the 552nd booster landing for SpaceX to date.

Smartphones and Pre-Teens: What's the Best Age to Give One?

December 14, 2025, 2:16 PM EST. New research links early smartphone ownership to health risks for kids. A Pew survey shows nearly 60% of 11-12 year-olds own smartphones. A Pediatrics study found that owning a phone before age 12 is associated with higher risk of depression, obesity, and insufficient sleep; risks grow the earlier the device is acquired. Even those who get a phone around 12-13 show worse mental health and sleep than peers without devices at 13. Experts urge parents to weigh the health implications, treat the decision like safeguarding health, and consider delaying beyond high school for many children. Key readiness factors include meaningful off-screen activities and a clear routine for technology use.

AI Boom Spurs Corporate Push to Hire Energy Traders to Hedge Electricity Costs

December 14, 2025, 1:58 PM EST. As the AI race accelerates, U.S. power demand is surging, risking higher costs and tighter supply. To hedge exposure, corporations are expanding energy trading desks. Meta, Microsoft, and Apple have secured licenses from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to buy and sell wholesale power, and Disney has posted an energy-trader role. Traders help mitigate price volatility and risk when utilities lock in capacity, sometimes demanding upfront payments for multi-gigawatt commitments. If actual usage falls short, a trader can sell excess power on the open market. Electricity prices rose about 7% year over year in September; natural gas climbed more than 60% over the past year. Firms seek long-term contracts to lock in stable costs, mirroring commodity hedges in other sectors.

'Silent' iPhone alarm causes traveler to miss flight

December 14, 2025, 1:48 PM EST. Several users report iPhone alarms going off silently, leading to missed flights, exams and shifts. The trend gained traction after Brett Chody posted a TikTok about waking up to a silent alarm that showed alarm going off but produced no sound for two hours. In Apple discussions, the culprit is often the Attention Aware Features tied to Face ID, which reportedly lowers volume when you are looking at the screen. Some users say turning this feature off restores normal alarm behavior. The chatter spans thousands of replies and suggests a mix of workarounds, including aggressive repetitive alarms. Separately, MacRumors notes that first-generation iPhone SE models are now obsolete and no longer eligible for repair, a separate Apple policy update.

Portlanders Rally Outside Apple Store to Restore ICEBlock App Flagging Immigration Officer Sightings

December 14, 2025, 1:46 PM EST. More than 30 downtown Portland demonstrators gathered outside the Apple Store at 450 S.W. Yamhill St. to demand Apple restore the ICEBlock app, which lets users flag sightings of federal immigration officers. The protest outside the Apple store was part of a broader push over digital tools used to monitor immigration enforcement. Organizers say keeping ICEBlock offline endangers safety and transparency for immigrant communities, while supporters argue such tools should be protected as civic expression. Apple has not publicly commented on the app's removal, and it's unclear whether the decision came from Apple or another platform policy. The action highlights ongoing tensions at the intersection of technology, civil rights, and retail responsibility.

San Francisco's Most Active Waymo Rider: 427 Rides and the Race for the Top Robotaxi User

December 14, 2025, 1:40 PM EST. Waymo handed out a 'Year in Review' to riders who logged more than three trips in 2025, and The Standard set out to crown the city's most prolific user in San Francisco. The mystery rider racked up 427 rides and more than 2,700 miles, earning a power rider badge while spending roughly eight days chauffeured around the city. Lee Edwards of Root Ventures logged 383 rides, proving there's fierce competition among SF's robotaxi faithful. The story highlights how riders use Waymo for work-often to type on a laptop or take calls-while the company expands to freeway rides in the Bay Area and beyond. With rivals like Zoox, Uber/Nuro/Lucid, and the prospect of fully autonomous Teslas, the chase for the top rider is far from over.

San Francisco's Most Active Waymo Rider in 2025 – Prove Us Wrong

December 14, 2025, 1:38 PM EST. Waymo rewards riders with more than three trips in 2025 with a personalized Year in Review and a branded Waymotype. The Standard sought SF's most prolific rider and found a mystery user who completed 427 rides and logged over 2,700 miles, earning the power rider label while staying anonymous. Lee Edwards of Root Ventures logged 383 rides, showing how robotaxi trips double as a portable workspace in Noe Valley. Waymo has expanded Bay Area service to freeway rides and airports, now claiming 14 million rides in 2025 as it eyes more cities next year. The market is heating up with Zoox, Uber/Nuro/Lucid, and Tesla promising broader robotaxi deployments. Want to share your own Year in Review? Email the team.

Big Tech scoops up AI wearables as customers grow wary of privacy

December 14, 2025, 1:36 PM EST. Meta's acquisition of Limitless, creator of a $199 AI pendant that records and transcribes conversations, signals legitimacy for the AI wearables market but alarms users about privacy. The deal reportedly has an undisclosed price and comes with the loss of HIPAA protections and a change in minimum age from 18 to 13; access was cut in Brazil, China, the EU, Israel, South Korea, Turkey, and the U.K. due to local data rules. This follows Amazon's purchase of Bee and OpenAI collaborating with Apple, reinforcing that Big Tech is turning wearables into a core platform rather than a fringe project. Founders say the moves validate the space but worry about who controls it. Competing products like Omi remain HIPAA-compliant and privacy-conscious.

Big Tech snaps up AI wearables, sparking privacy fears

December 14, 2025, 1:34 PM EST. Meta's purchase of Limitless, a $199 AI pendant that records and transcribes conversations, signals legitimacy for AI wearables-but it also strips HIPAA protections for clinical use and shifts access away from certain regions as privacy rules bite. The deal mirrors Amazon's earlier acquisition of Bee and comes as OpenAI partners with Apple's Jony Ive on an AI hardware project. For founders, the moves validate the category but raise concerns about control and independence. Competing startups like Pocket and Omi tout HIPAA-compliance, open-source design, and local data storage; Omi tech could push the market forward while emphasizing privacy advantages. In short: AI wearables are moving from fringe experiments to mainstream, but customers are wary about who owns and governs their data.

Founder of Mental Health Startup in Public Meltdown Tries to Start Fire, Crashes Tesla

December 14, 2025, 1:32 PM EST. Beri Vikram, 42, founder of BetterLYF Wellness-an online mental health platform in India-was involved in a weekend incident at Garrod Farms in Saratoga. Staff confronted him after he allegedly tried to light a fire, and he then rammed his Tesla into two parked cars, sending one over an embankment before driving into the weeds. Police say Vikram locked himself in the car and refused to surrender, prompting officers to deploy pepper spray and pepper balls before arresting him on charges of assault with a deadly weapon and resisting arrest. No serious injuries were reported. The case has renewed discussion about the challenges facing mental health startups, including regulatory scrutiny and cybersecurity concerns, as Vikram was taken to a hospital following the arrest.

Alleged: Founder of BetterLYF Wellness Arrested After Fire-Starting, Tesla Crash in Saratoga

December 14, 2025, 1:30 PM EST. According to the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office, 42-year-old Beri Vikram of Menlo Park, founder of BetterLYF Wellness, allegedly tried to start a fire at Garrod Farms in Saratoga and then crashed his Tesla into two parked cars, sending one over an embankment. After locking himself in the vehicle, officers used pepper spray to force him out and he was arrested on charges of assault with a deadly weapon and resisting arrest. Vikram's actions have sparked renewed scrutiny of mental health startups amid debates over fast growth and cybersecurity practices. No serious injuries were reported, but the incident left his Tesla wrecked and a Honda battered. The case highlights questions about safety, accountability, and regulation in tech-enabled health services.

Could Nvidia Become the First $10 Trillion Company?

December 14, 2025, 1:28 PM EST. Nvidia rode the AI boom to a market-cap milestone, briefly topping $4-5 trillion and becoming the world's largest company on AI demand. The piece asks: could Nvidia become the first company to hit $10 trillion? Achieving that would require stock gains of about 128% to around $411 in roughly five years, far faster than its ~1,200% rise over the past five years. Analysts note the price-to-sales ratio around 23x-25x and revenue growth from about $130B last year to an estimated $213B this year and $316B next year, implying aggressive expansion. The takeaway: Nvidia's leadership in GPUs and AI tooling could fuel value, but reaching a $10T valuation would remain a steep hurdle.

Could Nvidia Reach $10 Trillion? Analyzing the AI Giant's Path to a $10T Valuation

December 14, 2025, 1:26 PM EST. Nvidia has surged to the top of the market, briefly hitting a $4-5 trillion market cap and trading around $174 a share. The question remains: could Nvidia become the first company to reach a $10 trillion valuation? Analysts would need the stock to rise about 128% to roughly $411 over the next five years. The story hinges on growth momentum from the AI boom and Nvidia's dominance in GPUs; yet investors also weigh the company's valuation, currently about 23x trailing sales (often closer to 25x). Nvidia reported around $130 billion in fiscal-year sales, with estimates of $213B this year and $316B next, implying very strong growth but raising questions about sustainability and multiple expansion over time.

FFmpeg Lands Initial JPEG-XS Support with libsvtjpegxs Integration

December 14, 2025, 1:24 PM EST. FFmpeg has merged initial support for JPEG-XS, adding an avcodec parser and JPEG-XS decoding via Intel's libsvtjpegxs library, plus a raw JPEG-XS muxer and demuxer and MPEG-TS stream support in avformat. This early integration targets low-latency, low-complexity use cases such as streaming over IP for drones and autonomous systems. Intel's SVT-JPEG-XS project underpins the encoder/decoder, highlighting ongoing industry adoption even as other JPEG formats are more established. Developers can track the JPEG-XS activity in FFmpeg via the project commits and the JPEG-XS search on the FFmpeg Git repository.

DJI Neo 2 Review: A Grown-Up Selfie Drone with 4K/60fps, 2-Axis Gimbal, and Omnidirectional Obstacle Avoidance

December 14, 2025, 1:22 PM EST. DJI's Neo 2 is the upgraded selfie drone that feels like a grown-up version of its predecessor. It adds 4K/60fps video, a two-axis mechanical gimbal for steadier footage, and omnidirectional obstacle avoidance powered by forward LiDAR and downward IR sensors. The result is safer, smoother flights for both beginners and enthusiasts. Storage is bumped to 49GB, though you lose the microSD slot. The Neo 2 also introduces Gesture Control for hands-free operation and can connect via a Digital Transceiver with various controllers or the Goggles N3. If you want a portable, feature-rich selfie drone that prioritizes ease of use and safety, the Neo 2 is hard to beat.

Google's Motion Cues: An Android-native fix to reduce motion sickness

December 14, 2025, 1:20 PM EST. Google is building Motion Cues, a native Android feature that adds subtle animated dots along the screen edges to synchronize with vehicle motion and curb sensory conflict that causes car sickness. The plan is to bake it into SystemUI via a dedicated Motion Cues API, so it stays visible even when you pull down notifications or open Settings. It would require a future OS update (likely Android 17). Unlike third-party apps, Google would restrict access to only privileged system apps, creating a safe, accessibility-focused implementation. If released, this could let you read, text, or watch videos on commutes without nausea.

AI Toys Under Scrutiny as NBC Finds CCP Messaging in Miiloo Device

December 14, 2025, 1:18 PM EST. AI-powered toys are flooding online marketplaces, promising companionship and stories for kids, but researchers warn about weak content moderation. NBC News tests show some toys repeat controversial or dangerous content. One Miiloo toy by Miriat labeled Xi Jinping's comparison with Winnie the Pooh as 'extremely inappropriate' and claimed Taiwan is an 'inalienable part of China.' The finding echoes MIT Tech Review's notes on a growing trend of Chinese-made AI toys reaching the US. Consumer-safety groups warn that kids are at risk, with guardrails sometimes failing-e.g., toys answering how to light a match or sharpen a knife. Major firms like OpenAI, DeepSeek, and Anthropic advise age limits, but tests reveal gaps in safeguards across brands and devices such as Miko and Miiloo.

Apple Watch SE 3: 5 reasons it's the best value in Apple's lineup

December 14, 2025, 1:16 PM EST. Apple's watch SE 3 gets a substantial upgrade in value, even as the design stays familiar. Here are five reasons it stands out in the lineup. 1) Cost and value – starts at $249 with frequent discounts; often cheaper than Series 11 and far less than Ultra models. 2) Processor – the same S10 chip as higher models enables an always-on display, new wrist-flick gestures, and offline Siri. 3) Case size and feel – still offered in 40mm and 44mm, lighter and more comfortable than the Series 11. 4) Sleep and health tracking – strong sleep insights and a daily score, with essential health features carried over. 5) Ecosystem value – tight iPhone integration and future-proofing at a lower price point.

Did Sergey Brin's return speed up Google's AI race? Sundar Pichai explains

December 14, 2025, 1:14 PM EST. Google CEO Sundar Pichai says Sergey Brin has stepped back into 'founder mode,' spending more time in the office and even coding alongside AI researchers. The scene of watching training loss curves together highlights Brin's hands-on role in Google's AI push, though he remains a founder-technologist without an official title. Analysts debate whether this back-to-the-bench involvement hastened execution on flagship efforts like Gemini, or simply reflected a broader industry shift after OpenAI's ChatGPT disruption. While the pieces suggest Brin's deep systems knowledge and culture-setting influence, there's no public proof that a single person directly accelerated Google's pace. Internally, Google's history includes pioneering work on the Transformer architecture and patient, cautious strategy.

Rocket Lab launches JAXA tech-demo satellite on Electron, reordering its manifest

December 14, 2025, 1:12 PM EST. Rocket Lab successfully lofted Japan's space tech demonstrator, RAISE-4, on an Electron rocket from Launch Complex 1, achieving deployment into a 540-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit about 55 minutes after liftoff. The 110-kilogram satellite carries eight payloads to test technologies from propulsion and communications to a drag sail designed to aid deorbiting. RAISE-4's launch had been delayed as Japan's Epsilon-S rocket has been grounded since a 2022 failure, with further postponements from upgraded solid motors. Rocket Lab noted a contract with JAXA for two Electron launches, including eight cubesats for additional tech demonstrations, to fly in early 2026 on a separate Electron. CEO Peter Beck called the mission a model of dedicated access to space for JAXA, under the banner of RAISE And Shine, amid manifest realignment that also includes Bridging the Swarm for NEONSAT-1A.

4 Things You Can Store in Apple Wallet: Digital IDs, Passports, and More

December 14, 2025, 1:10 PM EST. Apple Wallet can store more than cards; this guide highlights four useful items you may not know you can keep in Wallet. Learn how Digital ID lets you present a secured version of your U.S. passport on iPhone or Apple Watch for domestic TSA checks, with data encrypted and access gated by biometrics. In addition to Digital ID, you can add driver's licenses and state IDs to Wallet in supported states, speeding up identity checks at stores, venues, and some airports. The article also notes ongoing support and future expansions, plus simple steps to add these items by scanning documents and verifying your identity. Wallet's integration with the Apple Watch and evolving compatibility makes travel and everyday verification smoother.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Patch 1.5.0 Intensifies Endless Tower Bosses

December 14, 2025, 1:08 PM EST. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Patch 1.5.0 dropped this week, delivering 'new boss battles for late-game players' in the Endless Tower. The update adds Verso's Drafts, new cosmetics, and a brutal reimagining of classic bosses – including the Divergent Star Simon – designed to be even tougher. Social media is buzzing as players grapple with the red ring diving board challenge and protracted battles like Osquio's fight that can last hours. Community reactions range from praise of the DLC's depth to frustration at its difficulty, with players noting it may require repeated attempts to survive parries and gradient attacks. The expansion, announced at The Game Awards, also references beloved sidekick Esquie and comes as a celebratory post-year update from Sandfall Interactive.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Patch 1.5.0 Adds brutal new Endless Tower bosses

December 14, 2025, 1:06 PM EST. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Patch 1.5.0 drops new challenges: new boss battles in the Endless Tower featuring variations of iconic bosses, with a brutal reimagining of Simon. The Divergent Star version surpasses vanilla hard mode, and players are buzzing over the red ring diving board challenge. Community reactions range from astonishment to frustration as late-game players grind for long attempts and parries. The update also adds Verso's Drafts, new localisation, and costumes, with Esquie taking a focus in the expansion. The DLC arrived after The Game Awards, where Sandfall Interactive celebrated big wins, including a record nine at the event.

Silent Hill f Wins Game of the Year at The Horror Game Awards 2025

December 14, 2025, 1:04 PM EST. Konami's Silent Hill f topped The Horror Game Awards 2025, taking four awards including Game of the Year among six nominations. Other dual winners included Look Outside, earning Best Art Direction and Best Indie Horror Game. DOOM: The Dark Ages claimed Best Soundtrack, while The Midnight Walk took Best VR Horror Game and, at The Game Awards 2025, won Best AR/VR Game. Resident Evil Requiem captured Most Anticipated Horror Game. Host duo Phil Dickens and Will Penkeyman with co-producer Ash Millman presided over the first live, in-person ceremony at the Kensington Conference and Events Centre. Additional honors went to Little Nightmares III for Most Accessible Horror Game, Markiplier as Horror Content Creator, and Red Barrels as Best Developer, among others.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Patch 1.5.0 adds brutal Endless Tower boss battles with Divergent Star Simon

December 14, 2025, 1:02 PM EST. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Patch 1.5.0 drops a brutal round of new boss battles in the Endless Tower, including reimagined versions of iconic bosses like Simon. The Divergent Star variant reportedly crushes most players, and a new red ring diving board challenge is drawing equal consternation. Players share screenshots and threads lamenting the sheer difficulty, with hours-long attempts and near-misses. The update also adds a new playable area, Verso's Drafts, plus localisation tweaks and costumes. The expansion-announced at The Game Awards-is available now, with fresh focus on lovable sidekick Esquie. French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated Sandfall Interactive on a record nine wins at the awards, underscoring the studio's momentum.

Pixel 10: Quick Share with AirDrop Bridges Android and iOS in Practice

December 14, 2025, 1:00 PM EST. Google's Pixel 10 continues to spark conversation with a feature that isn't about benchmarks but usability. The latest feature drop centers on Quick Share working with AirDrop, making it easier to share photos and videos between Android and iOS. Anecdotal feedback from Pixel 10 owners shows this cross-platform sharing reduces friction for couples and colleagues, highlighting Google's strategy to broaden appeal rather than wow enthusiasts. While not a headline-grabbing spec upgrade, this small capability helps Android feel less intimidating to iOS switchers and illustrates how quieter features can move the needle for everyday users.

Time names 'Architects of AI' as Time's Person of the Year 2025

December 14, 2025, 12:56 PM EST. Time magazine named the 'Architects of AI' as Time's Person of the Year 2025, recognizing AI's leap from niche tech to mainstream life. The award honors the individuals who imagined, designed, and built AI rather than the technology itself. The cover features eight leaders: Mark Zuckerberg, Jensen Huang, Elon Musk, Sam Altman, Lisa Su, Demis Hassabis, Dario Amodei, and Fei-Fei Li, who launched World Labs. Five are billionaires with a combined fortune of $870 billion. Time editor Sam Jacobs says the year marked AI's rapid ascent, while Forrester's Thomas Husson notes the shift from novelty to everyday use. Some experts, like Anthony Aguirre of the Future of Life Institute, caution about the societal risks as competition accelerates.

Alix Wilton Regan Is the New Voice of Lara Croft in Tomb Raider's PS5 Era

December 14, 2025, 12:54 PM EST. Veteran voice actress Alix Wilton Regan is stepping into the role of Lara Croft for reimagined titles Legacy of Atlantis and Catalyst, signaling a new era for the series on modern platforms. Amazon Games confirmed Regan's dynamic portrayal is reinvigorating the iconic heroine with fresh spirit and depth, while Regan herself called the moment the highlight of her career. Legacy of Atlantis serves as a remake set after the survivor trilogy, with Catalyst arriving even later, as developer Crystal Dynamics pivots toward a more confident, mature Croft. The move follows the franchise's recent casting history, including Keeley Hawes and Camilla Luddington, underscoring Tomb Raider's evolving voice direction for the PS5 era.

Pixel Watch 4 adds one-handed gestures, but Android Wear's wrist flicks hint at a better past

December 14, 2025, 12:38 PM EST. Pixel Watch 4's December 2025 update adds one-handed gestures – a double pinch to scroll and a wrist turn to navigate – that let you dismiss notifications, snooze alarms, manage timers, and pause music without touching the screen. They're handy-especially for long messages. Yet the piece notes a nostalgic gap: Wear OS once offered wrist flicks that opened the notification feed and scrolled it from the watch face, plus a shake to return to the watch face. Those gestures were pared back in Wear OS 3 and resurfaced only in limited form in later devices. The takeaway: there's room for a middle ground that restores easy access to the notification feed while balancing reliability and battery life.

Backlash Against AI Surveillance Cameras Grows as Cities Push Back on Flock Safety

December 14, 2025, 12:34 PM EST. Residents in Longmont, Colorado packed a four-hour council hearing to oppose a contract with Flock Safety and its AI-powered surveillance network. With at least 23 cameras and license-plate readers, critics highlighted a lack of explicit privacy guarantees and a longer data-retention window-pegged at 30 days vs. 14-counting it as evidence of expanding surveillance. The city council voted 5-1 to reject future expansion, though 23 cameras may remain under review. Nationwide, communities from Yakima to Eugene are challenging ALPR programs, arguing that tech promises-like avoidance of facial recognition-aren't guaranteed and can yield false positives and abuses. Protests, open-source mapping attempts like DeFlock, and high-profile misuse cases amplify the push for stronger privacy protections.

Apple's $4T Market Cap Surpasses Most Nations – A Tech Giant's Global Footprint

December 14, 2025, 12:30 PM EST. Apple's market cap reached about $4.01 trillion as of November 21, 2025, making it wealthier than the entire GDP of nearly every country. Only four economies – the United States, China, Germany and Japan – exceed Apple's value, underscoring extraordinary wealth concentration in tech. The piece also notes Nvidia (~$5.03T) and Microsoft (~$3.84T) in early November, with the top three U.S. tech firms totaling about $12 trillion in market value. It clarifies that market cap and GDP measure different things, yet the comparison highlights how a handful of firms dwarf national economies. The article contrasts Apple with nations like France, India, the UK, Italy, Brazil and Russia, and touches on employment implications.

Ayaneo's Pocket Play: a sliding, Xperia Play-inspired gaming smartphone

December 14, 2025, 12:28 PM EST. Ayaneo is entering smartphones with the Pocket Play, a sliding gaming smartphone that collapses into a handheld game device. In its gaming mode, it adds a controller layout featuring a D-pad, ABXY buttons, and four shoulder buttons, plus two touchpads that can be mapped as virtual joysticks or custom inputs. The design nods to the classic Xperia Play, and Ayaneo says the touchpads will also appear on its upcoming Next II. While specs remain unrevealed, the Pocket Play appears to include expandable storage slots. Set to launch on Kickstarter, pricing is still undisclosed. The device positions Ayaneo against gaming-centric phones like RedMagic and Asus ROG Phone, as well as high-end mainstream smartphones capable of gaming. It marks Ayaneo's first foray into the smartphone market, focused on mobile gaming experiences.

Rumor: Half-Life 3 as Steam Machine launch title eyed for Spring 2026

December 14, 2025, 11:54 AM EST. According to a recent Insider Gaming Weekly episode, sources say Valve plans to launch Half-Life 3 as a launch title for the Steam Machine, with a target Spring 2026 release. Journalist Mike Straw says the announcement has been delayed due to RAM pricing concerns, which could affect pricing and timing for the Steam Frame and Steam Controller. The plan is to release the hardware and HL3 simultaneously, with price being the main holdup. Straw cites established sources who previously leaked details on Madden and a Lord of the Rings project, emphasizing that HL3 is still believed to be coming in the Spring. The story frames HL3 not as a distant project but as a potential system seller tied to Valve's new hardware.

NVIDIA Blackwell vs Google TPU: The 2026 AI Compute Showdown

December 14, 2025, 11:52 AM EST. In The AI Investor Podcast, analysts compare Google's TPUs with NVIDIA's Blackwell GPUs and the evolving AI-compute battleground. As ASICs, TPUs promise higher energy efficiency and potentially lower total cost of ownership than NVIDIA's general-purpose hardware. Google's plan to sell TPUs externally-including to Anthropic-could turn an internal tool into a major business, reshaping supplier dynamics for players like Broadcom, Celestica, and TTM Technologies. Market chatter centers on total cost of ownership, combining chip price, energy use, and performance; Semi Analysis reports suggest TPUs already undercut NVIDIA on TCO, pressuring NVIDIA stock. Yet experts expect NVIDIA to remain dominant overall. The showdown will hinge on TCO, ecosystem reach, and how external TPU demand influences the AI-compute value chain in 2026.

Larry Ellison Explains Two AI Models: Edge, Low-Latency AI for Tesla and Robots, vs Cloud-Based AI

December 14, 2025, 11:40 AM EST. Oracle founder Larry Ellison outlined two AI categories: edge, low-latency models that must run locally in devices like cars and robots, and non-real-time, cloud-based models used for tasks such as code generation and data analysis. At Oracle AI World 25, he argued that if you can't tolerate network latency, you need local compute for instant decisions-braking, steering, or robot control-citing Tesla as an example. The other category relies on centralized cloud resources and allows a brief processing delay for more complex queries. Ellison stressed that both models are essential and being built, highlighting a future where edge computing and cloud AI coexist to meet different needs.

Why Android music apps lag behind iPhone: substandard UX, ads, and subscription clutter

December 14, 2025, 11:38 AM EST. Android music apps deliver a chaotic, ad-laden, pay-to-play experience that lags behind the iPhone's polished UX. In hands-on testing with the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and a Motorola Edge 70, the reviewer found a world of substandard apps, a heavy emphasis on in-app payments, and a relentless push toward subscription streaming. If you're new to Android, the takeaway is to avoid the music experience. By contrast, music done right remains the domain of iPhone. The piece underscores how fragmented onboarding, intrusive ads, and opaque billing undermine Android's music experience versus iOS.

Five upcoming flagships set to reinvent smartphones in 2026

December 14, 2025, 11:36 AM EST. Five upcoming flagships aim to shake up 2026 beyond the typical powerhouse phones. The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max stands out with a rear secondary display for notifications and selfies, a colossal 7,500mAh battery, and 100W wired / 50W wireless charging, paired with a top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Its sibling, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, is rumored to bring an even larger 1-inch camera sensor. Then there's Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold, the company's first tri-fold phone, featuring two hinges and three screens for new multitasking and camera layouts. Across the piece, the author argues these models prioritise unconventional form factors and bold experiments that could inject fresh excitement into smartphones in 2026.

iPhone 17 Pro Max vs 15 Pro Max: Is the upgrade worth it in 2025?

December 14, 2025, 11:30 AM EST. On paper, the iPhone 17 Pro Max shakes up the lineup with a heat-forged aluminium unibody for better cooling and a larger battery, plus a jump to the A19 Pro. It also sports a wider rear camera housing, and a distinct two-tone design. The display grows to 6.9-inch vs 6.7-inch on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, making the device feel noticeably bigger and heavier (233g vs 221g). Pricing lands at £1199 / $1299, with UK refurb prices lower for the previous generation. Apple isn't shipping hands-on impressions yet, but on paper the upgrade centers on thermal performance, battery capacity, and the new chip, rather than a modest camera or chip bump. We'll update with hands-on thoughts when available.

Nvidia vs OpenAI: Who Will Take the AI Crown in 2025?

December 14, 2025, 11:28 AM EST. From Yahoo Finance's Morning Brief, the contest for our annual Company of the Year award narrows to two tech titans: Nvidia and OpenAI. A win by Nvidia would mark a second trophy (first as a chipmaker winner in 2016); a win by OpenAI would make it the first private company to take the prize. Both firms have steered the market narrative in 2025, with blockbuster deals and bullish CEO remarks that have lifted or pulled down stocks. Nvidia reportedly took a stake in Intel, while OpenAI has been linked to major partnerships including potentially becoming a major shareholder in AMD. Yahoo Finance's coverage and Sozzi's updates will guide listeners and readers.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold: replacement costs reveal pricey inner display and relatively affordable outer screen

December 14, 2025, 11:24 AM EST. The Galaxy Z TriFold, Samsung's first tri-folding phone, is now on sale after selling out quickly. Replacement costs have surfaced: outer display priced roughly KRW 137,000-226,000 (~$92-$153) and inner display priced KRW 1,657,500-1,834,500 (~$1,122-$1,242). The inner panel is notably steep, reflecting the device's complex tri-folding screen. Samsung stores in Korea will stock 15-30 units per location, with nationwide availability around 700 units; plans call for 2,500-5,000 units by early next year. The credibility of the cited blog is unclear, so treat the figures with caution.

Analyst Sees Nvidia Reaching a $20 Trillion Market Cap by 2030 (Up 369%)

December 14, 2025, 11:20 AM EST. One Wall Street analyst has doubled their price target on Nvidia (NVDA), arguing the AI boom could lift the stock by about 369% to a $20 trillion market cap by 2030. Nvidia's GPUs remain the backbone of AI training and inference in data centers, driving a record revenue surge and expanding margins. In its fiscal 2026 third quarter, the company posted revenue of $57 billion (up 62% YoY) and EPS of $1.30, with the data center segment delivering $51.2 billion in sales. Management now sees further growth, with a Q4 revenue target near $65 billion. Nvidia reportedly commands around 92% of the data-center GPU market and benefits from rising AI capex, helping push toward a possible $20 trillion value.

How a Chinese robotics startup built a $150,000 robot in two years, taking on Elon Musk

December 14, 2025, 11:18 AM EST. From a shoestring start in 2023 with 1 million yuan, EngineAI Robotics has rolled out its first models, the SA01 and the high-torque T800. The robot touts 450 Newton metres of peak torque, a solid-state battery delivering four to five hours of intense operation, and a plan for mass production by 2026. The company is backed by China's vast engineering pool and the Pearl River Delta's plug-and-play supply chains, accelerating a swing toward a domestic robotics wave. As Western rivals keep lab demos, Chinese firms are field testing in stadiums, factories, and martial arts arenas, pursuing scale, speed, and system integration. The buzz comes as Musk's Optimus demonstrates a stumble, prompting a debate about who's leading the next robotics revolution.

Micro Mobile Data Center Market to Reach USD 19.36B by 2033 Driven by Edge Computing and Localized Processing

December 14, 2025, 11:16 AM EST. The micro mobile data center market is expanding as industries adopt edge computing, IoT, and AI for faster local processing. The market was valued at USD 6.24B in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 19.36B by 2033, a CAGR of about 15.21% (2026-2033). Key drivers include expanding edge deployments, real-time analytics, and demand for modular, portable, energy-efficient infrastructure in remote or harsh environments. Segment-wise, the 40-60 RU category held over 43.2% share in 2025, while 20-40 RU is expected to grow fastest. Government and defense dominate revenue, with IT and telecom anticipated to achieve the highest CAGR as micro data centers proliferate across sectors.

NVIDIA Receives Consensus Buy Rating From Analysts Amid Strong Earnings

December 14, 2025, 11:14 AM EST. Shares of NVIDIA Corp (NVDA) have a consensus Buy from 53 analysts, with 46 Buy, 4 Strong Buy, 2 Hold, and 1 Sell. The average 12-month target price is $258.65. Firms such as Arete Research (to $261), Oppenheimer (outperform, $265), Wells Fargo (overweight, $265), KeyCorp (overweight, $275), and S&P Equity Research (positive) have raised or reaffirmed outlooks. NVDA opened at $175.02; key metrics include market cap $4.25T, P/E 43.43, PEG 0.86, beta 2.29. The company posted $1.30 EPS on $57.01B revenue, beating estimates; YoY revenue up 62.5%, net margin 53.01%, ROE 99.24%. A quarterly dividend of $0.01 was declared (ex-div Dec 4), yield ~0.0%, payout ratio 0.99%.

Get $100 Off Apple Watch Series 11 With Guaranteed Christmas Delivery from Amazon & Best Buy

December 14, 2025, 11:12 AM EST. Amazon and Best Buy are offering all-time low prices on the Apple Watch Series 11, with $100 discounts across multiple models. The deals beat last month's Black Friday prices, and both retailers promise guaranteed delivery before Christmas. The 42mm GPS model is $299 (was $399), and the 46mm GPS is $329 (was $429). For cellular models, the 42mm cellular is $399 (was $499) and the 46mm cellular is $429 (was $529). More versions exist on Amazon with additional model options at these new lows. See our Deals Roundup for the latest discounts. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon.

Why I'm Not Selling Nvidia Stock Yet: High Margins, AI Demand, and a Bullish Case

December 14, 2025, 11:10 AM EST. Investors have watched Nvidia stock climb ~1,300% over five years as it shifted from gaming GPUs to powering Bitcoin mining and now AI workloads. After a ~12% pullback from its October peak, worries that AI enthusiasm is a bubble make the valuation look more attractive to buyers. A WSJ note on Nvidia's 59% operating margins and 70% gross margin hints at why rivals could try to undercut AI chips, yet demand remains robust: Meta and Alphabet still rely on Nvidia GPUs, and the company's AI leadership keeps customers from switching. Analysts expect profits to grow over the next five years, reinforcing the case for not selling despite near-term jitters.

Velo3D Gains Strategic Role in SpaceX's Raptor Program and Aerospace Supply Chain

December 14, 2025, 10:50 AM EST. Velo3D is expanding its role in aerospace and defense by deepening partnerships with SpaceX and Anduril, and presenting at the IAccess Alpha Winter Investment Conference 2025. Its metal additive manufacturing platform is now qualified for five SpaceX Raptor engine parts and is already producing components for the upcoming Raptor 4, underscoring its relevance to propulsion. The move strengthens the Rapid Production Solutions strategy and could drive steadier recurring revenue, aligning with a 2025 revenue target of US$50-60 million. However, challenges remain: limited cash runway, ongoing unprofitability, share price volatility, and a relatively inexperienced leadership team. Valuation views vary widely-from roughly US$0.07 to US$6 per share-reflecting the tension between aerospace demand potential and execution risk.

Nvidia Stock vs Broadcom: Wall Street Says Nvidia Is the Better AI Buy

December 14, 2025, 10:20 AM EST. Wall Street favors Nvidia (NVDA) as the AI stock to own over Broadcom (AVGO), even as both benefit from the AI boom. Nvidia dominates data-center GPUs-with over 90% market share-and backs a robust CUDA software ecosystem and rack-scale systems that integrate GPUs, CPUs, and networking. A recent policy shift allowing Nvidia to sell H200 GPUs in China could revive its large AI market share there. Analysts peg Nvidia's upside higher: a median target of around $250 implies roughly 43% upside from about $175 today, versus Broadcom's median of about $450 and ~25% upside from $360. While both look undervalued, Wall Street views Nvidia as the more compelling long-term AI lever, supported by solid earnings growth and a premium earnings multiple.

Google Messages: Web and Tablet Parity Lags Behind the Mobile App

December 14, 2025, 10:18 AM EST. Google Messages on the web and tablets suffers from a stark feature gap compared to its mobile app. While the Android version delivers a polished, Material 3-inspired experience-with smooth animations, emoji reactions, and a strong emphasis on voice messaging-the web and tablet interfaces lack parity. Users must re-verify their credentials frequently, and core features like voice messaging and scheduling messages simply aren't available on non-mobile platforms. The article argues that in a world with iMessage, WhatsApp, and others, Google must extend its improved messaging beyond smartphones to offer the same tools across devices. The message: improve cross-device support, fix verification friction, and bring feature parity to the web and tablet experiences.

Mark Zuckerberg envisions smartphones replaced by wearable tech and smart glasses

December 14, 2025, 10:06 AM EST. Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg argues that wearables will become the primary gateway to the digital world, not phones. In interviews and public demos, Meta's AI-enabled eyewear and Ray-Ban collaborations push toward a hands-free, spatial computing future where notifications and navigation appear in your field of view. Competition from Apple Vision Pro underscores a broader shift to lighter, smarter interfaces. Early adopters already use smart glasses in daily life, dialing messages by voice and navigating airports without pulling out a device. If founders are right, the next era may render smartphones a transient chapter by the 2030s, driven by AR/VR headsets and display-less wearables, with IDC forecasting meaningful headset shipments in 2025.

Overview Energy raises $20M to beam solar power from space to Earth

December 14, 2025, 10:02 AM EST. Overview Energy, a Northern Virginia startup, has raised US$20 million to pursue transmitting solar power from satellites to Earth, enabling a near-constant 24/7 supply. The plan centers on wide-beam near-infrared lasers that beam energy from satellites in geosynchronous orbit (about 22,000 miles up) to existing ground solar farms. By tapping the Sun year-round, its constellation could power panels during the ~65-75% of daylight hours when they're idle, potentially lowering electricity price spikes and boosting grid resilience for critical facilities. The company also demonstrated a proof-of-concept: a Cessna Caravan at about 3 miles altitude transmitted power to a ground receiver made of ordinary solar panels, described as the first high-power wireless transfer from a moving platform. Competitors like Aetherflux and Space Solar are pursuing similar ideas.

Apple Rolls Out Patches for Sophisticated Targeted Zero-Day Attacks

December 14, 2025, 10:00 AM EST. Apple has released patches for a sophisticated targeted zero-day campaign affecting users of iOS versions prior to iOS 26. The vulnerabilities were exploited in an "extremely sophisticated attack" against specific individuals, as noted in Apple's security bulletin. Users are urged to apply the available updates promptly to mitigate risk, enable protections, and reduce exposure to further exploits. The incident underscores the importance of timely software updates and robust device security in defending against targeted cyber threats.

SpaceX valued at $800B, eyes 2026 IPO plans

December 14, 2025, 9:50 AM EST. SpaceX is moving ahead with an insider share sale valuing the company at about $800 billion, setting up what could be the largest IPO of all time. In an internal memo reported by Bloomberg, SpaceX signaled plans for a potential public offering in 2026 to fund accelerated programs, including the Starship rocket, AI data centers in space, and a Moon base. The latest secondary offering priced at $421 a share, nearly double July's $212 for a $400 billion valuation, and surpasses OpenAI's $500 billion mark. If pursued, the IPO could raise well over $30 billion and target a $1.5 trillion corporate value, near Saudi Aramco's 2019 listing. Timing remains uncertain, and SpaceX may decide not to move forward.

Nvidia vs AMD: Assessing the True AI Alpha-OLS Model for NVDA

December 14, 2025, 9:48 AM EST. An experienced financial analyst weighs Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) through the lens of the AI era and the proposed Alpha-OLS framework. The piece examines how NVDA and AMD navigate chip demand, pricing power, and competitive dynamics within enterprise AI, data centers, and consumer markets, while distinguishing model-driven signals from history. It discusses the strengths and limitations of the Alpha-OLS approach for stock selection and risk assessment, and what investors should watch in earnings, guidance, and capital allocation. Disclosure notes a beneficial long position in NVDA and confirms no current ties to other firms beyond Seeking Alpha, with a reminder that past performance is not indicative of future results. The author emphasizes independent analysis and transparency in a complex tech landscape.

Nanit Home Display Review: A Wireless Baby Monitor with Live Video, Bright Touchscreen and Room Sensors

December 14, 2025, 9:44 AM EST. The Nanit Home Display lets you watch your baby without your phone, running over Wi-Fi with USB-C charging. Battery life won't last a full day, so you'll need to power down when not in use. Video quality is solid, with clear night-vision and a responsive live feed, though pixelation can appear when zooming and the fixed stand limits framing. It also shows room temperature and humidity, and can alert you to crying or motion. The touchscreen mirrors the Nanit app, with controls for mic, nightlight, breathing detection, and camera power. The screen is very bright; standby preserves audio, but the live view won't auto-sleep. Overall, feature-rich but power hungry.

Experts urge caution as Trump bill incentivizes AI in rural healthcare

December 14, 2025, 9:38 AM EST. Experts warn that the Trump administration's Rural Health Transformation Fund ties states to AI-powered health care upgrades to access $50 billion in funding, while the broader bill also presumes Medicaid cuts totaling about $911 billion over the next decade. Researchers say AI could ease the chronic under-resourcing of rural hospitals by streamlining administrative work and support staff; physicians still face heavy note-taking burden, though early AI notes vary in quality by expert clinicians. The fund emphasizes consumer-facing, technology-driven solutions and remote monitoring, robotics, and other AI tools. Regulators note that the FDA currently governs AI used for diagnosis, but not transcription, highlighting policy and implementation risks and opportunities for rural care.

Nvidia AI Chips Face Unusual U.S. Security Review Ahead of China Exports

December 14, 2025, 9:36 AM EST. The U.S. is initiating a rare, preliminary security review of the AI chips Nvidia is permitted to ship to China before export. The process, described as a special review, underscores heightened national-security concerns about advanced semiconductor sales to China. The move comes in the wake of the Trump administration's decision to permit certain exports and signals a tighter policy review framework for high-performance processors used in AI and data-center workloads. If the review finds national-security risks, licenses could be modified or blocked, adding new uncertainty for Nvidia and its customers. The outcome could influence U.S. tech policy, supply chains, and the global race to lead in AI hardware.

Nvidia AI Chips Face Unusual U.S. Security Review Ahead of China Exports

December 14, 2025, 9:34 AM EST. The U.S. will conduct a special security review of the AI chips Nvidia is allowed to ship to China before export. The move highlights growing national-security concerns around advanced hardware and follows the Trump administration's decision to permit these controversial exports. The review could delay shipments and reshape policy toward cross-border AI infrastructure amid geopolitical tensions and supply-chain scrutiny. Amrith Ramkumar reports, December 9, 2025.

Steve Wozniak's Custom $2 Bills: A Decades-Long Tech Quirk

December 14, 2025, 9:32 AM EST. Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak has been using his own custom $2 bills for decades. In a resurfaced 2011 Engadget interview, he described legally purchasing uncut sheets from the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing and having a California print shop perforate and bind them into pads. The bills carry his name, WOZ, and are marketed as legal tender that meet the specs of the government. He says he buys sheets for comedy purposes, though he joked about potential trouble with the Secret Service. It's a quirky intersection of tech celebrity culture and currency novelty.

Steve Wozniak's Custom $2 Bills: A Decades-Long Gag

December 14, 2025, 9:30 AM EST. Steve Wozniak, the Apple co-founder, has reportedly used his own custom $2 bills for more than 30 years. In a resurfaced 2011 Engadget interview, the 75-year-old describes ordering real uncut sheets from the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing, then having a California print shop perforate and bind them into pads. The bills bear his nickname WOZ and are marketed as a comedy bit, not counterfeit; he insists they meet government specs and remain legal tender. He warns they could draw attention if misused, recounting a near run-in with the Secret Service. It's a long-running gag that blurs the line between novelty and legit currency.

China Rebuffs Nvidia H200 After U.S. Export Approval, Bets on Domestic Chips

December 14, 2025, 9:28 AM EST. China is reportedly rejecting Nvidia's H200 AI chip in favor of domestically developed semiconductors, a move that complicates the White House's plan to challenge Chinese tech champions. White House AI czar David Sacks said Beijing's stance suggests a push for semiconductor independence. While Washington cleared H200 exports for vetted customers, Beijing has not publicly accepted the chip. Nvidia says it's pursuing licenses for vetted users, arguing that past export controls harmed U.S. taxpayers and foreign competitors. Analysts estimate China could be a roughly $50 billion data-center market for Nvidia, though Bloomberg Intelligence pegs H200 revenue at about $10 billion if the chip is accepted. Beijing is weighing incentives up to $70 billion to bolster local chipmakers, signaling a drive to reduce reliance on foreign chips.

China Rebuffs Nvidia H200 Despite U.S. Export Clearance

December 14, 2025, 9:26 AM EST. China appears to reject Nvidia's H200 despite a U.S. export clearance, according to White House AI czar David Sacks. Beijing is weighing incentives worth up to $70 billion to back domestic chipmakers, signaling a push for semiconductor independence and to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Nvidia has framed the China opportunity as large-CEO Jensen Huang has argued a roughly $50 billion addressable market-but Bloomberg Intelligence pegs potential China H200 revenue at about $10 billion only if the chip gains acceptance. The Trump-era strategy to counter Huawei by exporting competitive chips drew skepticism from Sacks, who warned in December that the approach might not work. Nvidia says it will continue licensing talks for vetted customers, while China's stance poses a hurdle to Nvidia's China rebound and to U.S. export-control aims.

Boost AI efficiency with 1min.AI's all-in-one platform – limited-time lifetime deal

December 14, 2025, 9:24 AM EST. Experience a more efficient AI workflow with 1min.AI's all-in-one platform. This one-stop shop consolidates image generation, coding help, and more, so you don't have to juggle multiple models and tabs. The Mashable Deals offer slashes the price of the Advanced Business Plan to a limited-time lifetime subscription of $74.97 (regularly $540). If you're looking to streamline AI tasks-from design to development-this deal bundles essential tools in a single interface, helping you choose the right model faster and boost productivity. Note: the offer is time-bound and subject to change.

Boost AI Productivity with 1min.AI's All-in-One Platform – Lifetime Deal for Advanced Business Plan

December 14, 2025, 9:22 AM EST. Discover how the all-in-one platform 1min.AI can streamline AI workflows. The deal gives a lifetime subscription to the Advanced Business Plan for only $74.97 (regularly $540), a limited-time offer. With a single interface, you won't need to juggle multiple tools to generate images, code, or text-the platform aims to be a true one-stop shop for AI needs. This Mashable Deals promotion highlights savings of about $465 and emphasizes convenience, faster decision-making, and efficiency when working with different AI models. Note: pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Ideal for teams or individuals seeking to consolidate tools and accelerate AI-powered projects.

AI image generators get better by getting worse: realism wins over polish

December 14, 2025, 9:20 AM EST. In The Stepback's look at AI image generators, Allison Johnson shows a surprising twist: advances in realism have come hand in hand with brief dips in image quality. From the early 256×256 outputs of DALL-E to the 1024×1024 era and beyond, improvements reduced telltales like fuzzy fur and odd textures, yet a new trend favors authentic-looking results that sometimes trade polish for authenticity. The piece rounds up milestones from OpenAI's DALL-E, Midjourney, and Stable Diffusion, and notes how Google's Gemini app's Nano Banana model highlights increased likeness preservation. The result isn't chaos but a paradox-better-than-ever realism that still feels imperfect in telling signs.

Nvidia's Secret AI Portfolio Under Strain as CoreWeave Slumps

December 14, 2025, 9:18 AM EST. Nvidia has built a disclosed, six-holding AI investment portfolio worth about $3.84 billion, dominated by CoreWeave. The cloud AI provider accounts for roughly 86% of the stake, after Nvidia's $350 million total buy-in that yielded about 7% of CoreWeave. Since its IPO, CoreWeave's stock has tumbled, eroding market cap from ~$80B to ~$39B, amid insider activity and questions about AI demand. The drop follows a SEC Form 4 showing CFO Nitin Agrawal sold shares to cover RSU vesting taxes, but the sale is framed as a non-event. The broader issue: potential circular financing where Nvidia backs capacity rather than end-user demand. With a $6.3B capacity commitment through 2032, critics worry about sustainability as debt-financed AI growth tightens its financial narrative.

SpaceX Eyes $1.5T IPO in 2026-27 as Port, Boom, Harness Lead This Week's Private Market Roundup

December 14, 2025, 9:16 AM EST. Elon Musk's SpaceX is pursuing an IPO aiming to raise significantly more than $30B at a $1.5T valuation, potentially the biggest listing ever. Management targets mid-to-late 2026, with a slip to 2027 possible depending on market conditions. The update also covers other space-and-tech names and notable private rounds: Saviynt raises $700M in a Series B Growth at about a $3B valuation; Fervo Energy closes a $462M Series E led by B Capital; Boom Supersonic raises $300M in a round with Darsana, Altimeter, Ark Invest and others; Harness nets $240M in a Series E with a planned $40M tender; Port takes $100M Series C at an $800M valuation. Unicorns to watch include Shop My at $1.5B.

Nvidia's Secret AI Portfolio Takes a Hit as CoreWeave Slumps

December 14, 2025, 9:14 AM EST. Nvidia has assembled a strategic portfolio of six public AI-focused investments totaling about $3.84 billion as of Q3, with CoreWeave accounting for over 86% of the value. Nvidia owns roughly 24.2 million CoreWeave shares (about 7% stake) after investing $100 million in April 2023 and another $250 million ahead of the IPO at $40 per share. CoreWeave's stock peaked near $187 post-IPO but has since fallen, trimming the portfolio's upside and shrinking its market cap to around $39 billion from a June high near $80 billion. CFO Nitin Agrawal sold 66,467 CoreWeave shares on Dec 11 for about $5.49 million due to RSU vesting, though he still holds over 203,000 shares. Critics question AI's sustainability, noting Nvidia's $6.3 billion capacity-backstop through 2032 and the risk of circular financing as debt-funded infrastructure expands industry-wide.

K2 raises $250M Series C to mass-produce Mega and Giga satellites in Torrance

December 14, 2025, 9:12 AM EST. K2, a three-year-old startup building a new class of high-power satellites, has raised $250 million in a Series C led by Redpoint Ventures, bringing total funding to over $400 million. The money backs a 180,000-square-foot factory in Torrance and a plan to launch the first Gravitas Mega Class satellite as a demonstration next year. K2 envisions a shift toward heavy-lift launch capacity from rockets like SpaceX's Starship and Falcon 9 to support markets such as in-space computing. Gravitas will feature a 20-kilowatt Hall-effect thruster and twin solar arrays delivering about 20 kilowatts. The mission is a milestone toward K2's Mega and Giga satellite program, with a March 2026 Falcon 9 launch.

The Best Games of 2025 – Windows Central ranks its favorite Xbox and Windows PC titles

December 14, 2025, 9:10 AM EST. Windows Central's year-end feature collects the team's favorite Xbox and Windows PC games of 2025. From AAA behemoths to scrappy indies, the list captures a year packed with diverse genres, ambitious storytelling, and robust multiplayer experiences across Xbox, Windows PC, Steam, Switch, and PlayStation. The rankings are wholly unscientific, voted on by WC editors, and include honorable mentions for remakes, DLC, or runner-ups that didn't grab enough votes. Highlights include Silent Hill F, Elden Ring: Nightreign, and Hollow Knight: Silksong, among others, with praise for atmosphere, combat, and ongoing innovations from both major studios and indie teams. The piece invites readers to share their own 2025 favorites in the comments as the team looks toward 2026.

LinkedIn Games Solutions for December 14, 2025

December 14, 2025, 8:28 AM EST. Today's roundup provides the LinkedIn Games solutions for December 14, 2025. It covers the daily puzzles: Mini Sudoku, Zip, Tango, Queens, and Pinpoint. Each section shares final placements or solver steps-rows for Sudoku, path directions for Zip, coordinates for Queens, and pattern cues for Tango. The piece notes a week that started easy but ends with fun challenges, and it invites readers to try the games or visit FW Gaming for more web titles. A quick digest for puzzle fans seeking clear, day-specific solutions.

iPhone 17 Pro Keeps Its Cool and Dominates Mobile Gaming with Vapor Cooling

December 14, 2025, 8:24 AM EST. Apple's iPhone 17 Pro proves you can have top-tier gaming without overheating. With the A19 Pro chip, rumored 12GB RAM, and a 6.3-inch, 3,000-nit display, it delivers smooth frame rates and long battery life. A first-of-its-kind vapor cooling chamber sits atop the silicon, and an aluminum frame helps vent heat, letting you push console-quality titles like Resident Evil 8 or Alien: Isolation without throttling. Storage starts at 256GB, with options up to 2TB on the Pro Max, keeping room for large games and files. While most devices choke on demanding games, the iPhone 17 Pro excels in performance, clarity, and brightness, proving that the latest iPhone line remains a leading gaming device on mobile.

Nvidia Stock vs. Bitcoin in 2026: Which Is the Better Buy?

December 14, 2025, 7:54 AM EST. Both Nvidia and Bitcoin have delivered stellar long-term returns, but they live in different worlds. Nvidia dominates AI-grade GPUs for the data center market, and its roadmap points to a new architecture, Rubin, in 2026 that could boost performance well beyond today. Management guides a fiscal year 2026 revenue near $212 billion, with roughly 90% from AI GPU demand. If demand for larger language model compute continues, Nvidia could stay on a blockbuster path into 2026 and beyond. On the other side, Bitcoin remains the top cryptocurrency by market cap and offers a different kind of exposure-digital gold and a hedge against fiat volatility-but with distinct risks and volatility. The choice hinges on risk tolerance, time horizon, and whether you favor AI hardware growth or crypto diversification in 2026.

Inside the AI Bubble: NeurIPS, AGI Fears, and the Race for Talent

December 14, 2025, 7:52 AM EST. In San Diego, Max Tegmark's warning about AGI and the AI-safety debate meets the glittering world of NeurIPS. The briefing on a new AI-safety index and the absence of top players at the booth hall reveal a paradox: industry hype coexists with real research, yet consensus on danger remains unsettled. Generative AI is changing work and culture, even as critics question grandiose claims like emergent abilities or self-improving systems. The NeurIPS venue-thousands of attendees, corporate sponsors, and a crowded exhibitor floor-highlights a fierce talent war. Major firms like Google, Meta, Apple, and Microsoft loom beside lesser-known startups, while OpenAI/Anthropic/xAI were notably quiet. The narrative around superintelligence travels faster than consensus, shaping research agendas and the competition for researchers.

Doubleheader launches from Florida's Space Coast: Atlas V for Amazon Leo and SpaceX Falcon 9 Starlink – watch from Volusia County

December 14, 2025, 7:22 AM EST. Florida could see a rare doubleheader as two rockets launch on the same day: an Atlas V carrying Amazon Leo broadband satellites and a SpaceX Falcon 9 delivering 29 Starlink satellites. If skies stay clear, launches from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Kennedy Space Center may be visible across Volusia County, stretching from Jacksonville Beach to West Palm Beach. Watch live coverage via USA TODAY Network's Space Team and floridatoday.com/space, with updates in a mobile-friendly live blog. Launch windows: Atlas V 3:49-4:18 a.m. ET; Falcon 9 8:11 a.m.-12:11 p.m. ET on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025.

Amazon Pulls Flawed AI 'Fallout' Recap as Prime Video Scraps X-Ray Recaps

December 14, 2025, 7:20 AM EST. Prime Video has pulled its AI-powered X-Ray Recap for Fallout after fans flagged inaccuracies in Season 1. The feature, pitched as a first-of-its-kind use of generative AI to extract key plot details, misread moments-like The Ghoul's choice involving Lucy and a mislabeling of a pre-apocalypse setting as 1950s America. Amazon hailed the tool as a breakthrough, but the recap was deemed error-riddled enough to remove it ahead of Season 2. TheWrap offered a breakdown of the latest trailer, and Fallout Season 2 debuts December 17 on Prime Video. The recap reminds us that AI tools still need refinement for narrative accuracy.

Can Brain-Inspired AI Accelerate Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computing?

December 14, 2025, 6:50 AM EST. A recent Nature paper argues that AI can accelerate quantum computing by integrating fault-tolerant hardware with accelerated supercomputers to build accelerated quantum systems. It notes that transitioning from NISQ devices to FTQC faces challenges due to hardware noise and limits of quantum error correction (QEC). While HPC and accelerated GPU computing support QC research, the rise of generative AI is only beginning. The piece cautions that classical AI cannot efficiently simulate quantum systems in general due to exponential scaling, underscoring the need to scale every aspect of QC and potentially let AI play a growing role in achieving useful QC applications. It also contrasts brain-inspired approaches with imitation via LLMs and suggests studying the brain to inform new modalities for QC and stability.

Pixel 10's AI features lead Android phones – what the Galaxy S26 needs to copy

December 14, 2025, 6:48 AM EST. Google's Pixel 10 leads with practical, user-friendly AI features. Highlights include the AI-assisted ProRes Zoom (on the Pixel 10 Pro/XL), the hands-free Ask Photos editing, and the auto best take tool that uses generative AI to adjust facial expressions in group shots. These features are not just flashy; they're easy to use and noticeably improve photos in everyday scenarios. Samsung's Galaxy S26 will need to match or surpass this level of practical Galaxy AI support to stay competitive, possibly with new native tools for photo editing, extended compositions for social posts, and stronger zoom enhancements. In short, Pixel 10's AI suite sets a high bar, and the Galaxy line should copy its most usable ideas rather than chase specs alone.

5 smartwatches to track daily activity and nudge healthier, steadier habits

December 14, 2025, 6:16 AM EST. From focused runners to everyday health fans, this guide reviews 5 smartwatches that quietly nudge you toward steadier habits. The Garmin Forerunner 165 targets training clarity with an AMOLED display, daily workout suggestions, and recovery insights that translate effort into honest progress. The Amazfit Active 2 blends long battery life and bright readability with 160+ sport modes and detailed sleep monitoring. The Huawei Watch FIT 4 offers a large display, up to 10 days of use, and diverse fitness tracking with emotional health insights. The Samsung Galaxy Watch8 adds vascular load monitoring, ECG, BP, and robust health apps for Android users. The Apple Watch Series 11 emphasizes a natural, background experience with seamless health and activity tracking. Together, these watches embody how wearables support healthier routines through real-time feedback.

Alphabet Could Overtake D-Wave in Quantum Computing, Powered by Willow and Google Quantum AI

December 14, 2025, 6:02 AM EST. Alphabet's Google Quantum AI may be set to dominate the quantum race, potentially surpassing pure-play D-Wave. While D-Wave has shown rapid commercialization with its quantum-annealing platform, Alphabet brings far larger capital and computing resources and ongoing breakthroughs. Google's Willow chip has demonstrably reduced error rates as qubits scale, enabling faster solutions to specialized problems that challenge traditional supercomputers. In contrast, D-Wave's approach offers near-term real-world utility but remains a high-risk, speculative play. Alphabet's integrated resources, platform development, and recent verifiable demonstrations suggest it could emerge as a leading quantum-computing winner in the coming years, even as widespread real-world adoption and broader use-cases continue to evolve.

Find My Becomes the New Social Media: Real-Time Location Is The Obsession

December 14, 2025, 6:00 AM EST. Apple's Find My app has quietly evolved into a social platform for a new generation. The piece follows people who treat live location sharing as a way to connect, track, flirt, or avoid awkward run-ins. Couples switch off Find My when they need space, friends screen each other's movements to coordinate meetups, and strangers become part of a shared geographic thread. A rapid informal poll shows many users now share their real-time location with 5-30 people, something that eclipses traditional social networks for some. While some worry about privacy and control, the trend suggests location-sharing is reshaping how we form intimate ties, maintain friendships, and navigate distance in a connected era. Is this the future of social media, or a privacy quagmire?

Kirby Air Riders: Dev Team to Disband After One Final Patch, Sakurai Says

December 14, 2025, 5:56 AM EST. Masahiro Sakurai confirms that the Kirby Air Riders development team will disband after a final patch, likely the Ver. 1.2.0 update. He notes there might be one more tweak, but after that players should enjoy the game as a definitive version. The patch brings online improvements, including solo course trials in Online Matches and better online communication, as Nintendo lists. Sakurai has long described the game as a one-and-done project, and this decision frees the team to move on while leaving a balanced racer for years to come. The news fans a joke about Smash Bros., with discussions of what comes next for Nintendo and Sakurai.

Tesla Plaid Paddle by Selkirk fuses EV aerodynamics with pickleball tech

December 14, 2025, 5:54 AM EST. In an unlikely fusion of automotive engineering and sports tech, Tesla teams with Selkirk Sport to unveil the Tesla Plaid Paddle-a next-generation pickleball paddle. The design borrows vehicle aerodynamics, CAD-driven shapes, and an edgeless, aerodynamic form with an open throat to reduce drag. Selkirk prototyped in Idaho, while Tesla analyzed air flow using methods from the Cybertruck and Model S. Key features include an elongated form for reach, an open throat, and a sharp perimeter to boost swing speed. Internal innovations include a TPU Power Ring for perimeter reinforcement and damping, and the MOI Tuning System to enlarge the sweet spot and stability. The InfiniGrit face claims three times the spin durability and up to 2,000+ RPM. Pre-orders start at US$350 on Tesla.com (RM1,434).

AI Analyzes Language Like a Human, Challenging Views on LLM Reasoning

December 14, 2025, 5:52 AM EST. An article, originally from Quanta Magazine, surveys a long-standing question: which language abilities are truly human and whether AI can match them. While some researchers argued that large language models can imitate speech but cannot analyze language in depth, a new study by Gašper Beguš, Maksymilian Dąbkowski, and Ryan Rhodes tests LLMs with rigorous linguistic tests. They even ask an LLM to generalize the rules of a made-up language. Although most models struggled, one system performed like a graduate linguistics student, diagramming sentences, resolving ambiguity, and using recursion. The work challenges assumptions about AI reasoning, highlighting the need to evaluate AI by how it handles language rather than mere production. Experts warn about training data memorization, and the team designed a test in four parts to curb that.

Tesla refines Full Self-Driving with v14.2.1.25 during Holiday Update

December 14, 2025, 5:50 AM EST. Tesla released Full Self-Driving v14.2.1.25 to the Early Access Program as part of the Holiday Update patch. Reviewers found significant improvements where the prior build fell short, notably in Speed Profiles, Hurry Mode, and Speed Limit recognition. After regressions in v14.2.1-such as overly cautious freeway behavior-the new update lets Hurry Mode flow with traffic again and eliminates the 10 mph cap. On highway runs, lane changes were described as more confident and timely, with fewer unnecessary maneuvers. Overall, testers praised the update for better highway speed matching, safer lane changes, and improved routing, marking one of the strongest recent FSD performances despite the patch's prior issues.

Teens urge Pennsylvania Kids Code to make the internet safer

December 14, 2025, 5:48 AM EST. Teens describe how the internet is essential for friendship and learning but also a source of bullying, toxic content, and sleep disruption. The letter argues that we shouldn't have to log off to feel safe and that online spaces must be built with teen well-being in mind. It champions a Pennsylvania Kids Code to hold social media apps accountable and push for safer, more mature online environments. The writer asks lawmakers to listen to young people who experience these spaces every day and act now to grow the internet without blocking access.

Could IonQ's Stock Spark a Monstrous 2026 Comeback in Quantum Stocks?

December 14, 2025, 5:46 AM EST. Speculation runs high on IonQ as a potential lever for a dramatic 2026 rebound in the performance of quantum computing stocks. IonQ's approach uses trapped ion technology, boasting a world-leading 99.99% 2-qubit gate fidelity-far ahead of many rivals but still short of commercial viability. The stock has swung wildly this year, reflecting the broader volatility in the space as investors weigh whether quantum tech can scale from lab results to real products. While superconducting rivals may trail on accuracy, they push ahead in throughput, heightening competition. Most pundits expect broad commercial use around 2030, which means IonQ will need to fend off rivals as it eyes a potential big uptick in 2026, not today's price moves.

Tesla investor Ross Gerber: 2026 could be a make-or-break year for Tesla

December 14, 2025, 5:44 AM EST. Tesla investor Ross Gerber says 2026 could be a make-or-break year for Tesla. He argues the company's ability to hit ambitious production targets, sustain demand for its EV lineup, and drive sustainable profitability will be crucial for the stock's trajectory. Key risks include capital expenditure needs, intensifying competition in the EV space, and regulatory headwinds that could pressure margins. A stronger-than-expected deliveries run or improved profitability could unlock upside, while misses could trigger volatility. As investors weigh guidance and macro risk, Gerber's view suggests 2026 may define Tesla's path toward enduring leadership.

Dealers Allege Ford Underpaid EV Battery Replacements, Facing Lawsuits

December 14, 2025, 5:32 AM EST. Two New York dealers allege Ford underpaid for full EV battery replacements, reimbursing as little as $600 when the job costs about $22,600. The lawsuit, filed in US District Court, argues Ford violated state warranty reimbursement laws by issuing flat-rate payments and not covering actual repair costs. With 15 battery replacements since 2024, dealers say the shortfall reaches roughly $286,200, and two other cases reimbursements of $13,000 per battery are also disputed. Attorneys indicate similar actions could grow into a class-action as more dealerships pursue compensation across states. The dispute highlights the financial tensions automakers face as the EV service model evolves.

AI-Driven Discovery Uncovers Hidden Geothermal Reservoir in Nevada

December 14, 2025, 5:28 AM EST. Utah-based startup Zanskar Geothermal & Minerals says it used artificial intelligence to locate a 250-degree-F geothermal reservoir beneath western Nevada, named Big Blind because it shows no surface indicators. It's the first blind site discovered in more than three decades. Co-founder and CEO Carl Hoiland says geothermal isn't tapped out, and AI helps fuse data from rock composition to magnetic fields to reveal hidden systems. The approach tackles the classic needle-in-the-haystack problem that has hampered exploration and scaling. Geothermal energy offers near-limitless, low-pollution power that's constantly available, unlike wind or solar. Zanskar believes there are many more blind sites across the Western US, ready for AI-driven discovery.

Half of Americans Cut Holiday Spending, Turn to AI for Deals

December 14, 2025, 5:26 AM EST. An Associated Press poll finds that about 50% of U.S. adults are cutting back on holiday spending this year as inflation stretches household budgets. To stretch dollars, shoppers are turning to AI tools that act as budget-conscious advisors, price comparers, and gift suggestions. Industry forecasts from Salesforce suggest AI agents will handle one in five holiday orders worldwide this season, driving roughly $263 billion in sales. From comparing prices to recommending affordable options, AI chatbots are becoming virtual personal shoppers for millions. Retailers like Walmart and Target are partnering with OpenAI to let customers browse products and buy via ChatGPT, giving shoppers quicker access to deals while providing retailers with a powerful new sales channel. For many, this AI-enabled shopping herd is a form of survival in a pricey season.

Samsung rolls out December 2025 security update for Galaxy S25 and signals One UI 8.5 Beta timing

December 14, 2025, 5:20 AM EST. Samsung has kicked off the December 2025 security update for the Galaxy S25 lineup, delivering a ~350 MB patch with 68 improvements. The Galaxy S24 series won't see the One UI 8.5 Beta expansion today; instead, the focus is on the security patch starting in South Korea with PDA CYL1 and a staged rollout to other regions. There's no immediate plan to broaden the One UI 8.5 Beta beyond the S25 family, though Samsung is testing 8.5 on multiple devices, including the S23 line. A stable release remains unlikely before Q2 2026. The next Beta wave is expected in late December for India and Poland, with a second Beta for current participants on December 22 in several regions.

Florida Space Coast doubleheader: Atlas V for Amazon Leo and Falcon 9 for Starlink

December 14, 2025, 5:18 AM EST. Get ready for a potential doubleheader on Florida's Space Coast as two rockets launch the same day: an Atlas V carrying the Amazon Leo broadband satellites and a SpaceX Falcon 9 delivering Starlink satellites. Launch windows: Atlas V 3:49-4:18 a.m. ET and Falcon 9 8:11 a.m.-12:11 p.m. ET. Launches from Cape Canaveral/Launch Complex 41 and Pad 39A could be visible along the Treasure Coast if weather cooperates, with sightlines potentially reaching Jacksonville Beach to West Palm Beach. Expect dramatic pre-dawn skies and contrails ideal for photos. Live coverage and updates from the USA TODAY Network at floridatoday.com/space, plus a Space Team live blog for real-time notes.

Geostationary Satellites Largely Quiet: New Study Measures Radio Leaks from 36,000 km Away

December 14, 2025, 5:14 AM EST. A study using archival GLEAM-X data from the Murchison Widefield Array shows that most geostationary satellites emit little radio noise in the frequencies astronomers use. Analyzing 72-231 MHz, researchers tracked up to 162 GEO/GES satellites over a night, stacking images at each satellite's predicted position. Upper limits are typically below 1 milliwatt of equivalent isotropic radiated power in a 30.72 MHz band, with the best limits near 0.3 mW; only Intelsat 10-02 shows a possible emission around 0.8 mW. At 36,000 km distance and with geometry, distant satellites are far quieter to ground telescopes than LEO counterparts, aiding the plan for the Square Kilometre Array. The work also demonstrates the power of stacking techniques to reveal faint, intermittent radio emissions.

Tesla Model 3 with 238,000 miles completes 2,500-mile UK tour; battery health remains strong

December 14, 2025, 5:04 AM EST. A Tesla Model 3 with an astonishing 238,000 miles undertook a 2,500-mile UK tour, still using its original components. Owner Richard "RSEV" Symons reports the car remains remarkably efficient, peaking at 86% battery capacity and showing only about 30% degradation on the brakes after heavy use as a taxi. The test involved regular fast charging at Superchargers, with the car performing like a near-new EV throughout the journey. The running cost through Superchargers helped cut expenses to about $33,000 vs. $81,000 in fuel for a comparable gasoline car. This challenges skepticism about EV longevity and suggests that high-mileage Tesla Model 3s can stay reliable as daily drivers.

Prediction: Alphabet Could Lead the Market in 2026 as AI, Cloud, and Gemini Drive Growth

December 14, 2025, 4:58 AM EST. Alphabet's stock has surged in H2 2025, and investors are eyeing leadership in 2026. With a market cap near $3.7-$3.9 trillion, Alphabet could lead the market as growth centers align. The core Google Search advertising business remains healthy, delivering solid gains. The company's Gemini AI model is gaining traction, increasingly challenging peers in the AI race. Google Cloud revenue is rising, about 34% year over year, with operating margin expanding from 17% to 24%, boosting profitability. If advertising stays resilient and AI plus cloud demand remains strong, Alphabet could leverage these paths to push valuations higher into 2026.

AI Agent Hacking Stanford Network in 16 Hours: Outsmarts Pros at a Fraction of the Cost

December 14, 2025, 4:30 AM EST. An AI agent reportedly spent 16 hours hacking Stanford's network, achieving results far faster and more cheaply than human cybersecurity experts. The episode highlights AI's evolving capabilities in offensive security, raising questions about defense, ethics, and risk at top research institutions. Proponents argue AI can automate reconnaissance, vulnerability discovery, and rapid exploitation, beating human pros who command six-figure salaries. Critics caution about authorization, safety, and the potential for misuse. If validated, this incident could accelerate investments in AI-driven defense, incident response, and policy frameworks that balance innovation with robust protections for academic and research networks.

Japan's Humanoid Spotlight Shifts as China and the US Lead at IREX

December 14, 2025, 4:28 AM EST. Japan has long led robotics with industrial arms, but at the 26th International Robot Exhibition (IREX) the stage is increasingly shared with humanoid systems from China and the US. While Kawasaki, Fanuc, Yaskawa and Nachi showcase formidable factory robotics-emphasizing mature integration and ROI-the buzz around humanoids shifts to young Chinese startups such as Galbot, AgiBot, Robotera and Lumos, presenting abroad to showcase mobility, dancing and competition. Unitree, hosted by Techshare in Japan, drew crowds as its robots boxed and danced. TrendForce notes Japan's focus on traditional industrial applications remains strong, even as China's and the US's humanoids capture imagination with service, entertainment, and athletic demos. The trend signals a widening global stage for humanoids beyond the factory.

Soft skills like emotional intelligence become vital as AI reshapes jobs, Jamie Dimon says

December 14, 2025, 4:24 AM EST. Jamie Dimon argues that AI will not dramatically shrink the workforce in the near term but will erode certain roles. He urges workers to sharpen critical thinking, EQ, and communication skills, and to focus on writing and meeting etiquette to stay employable. The CEO also calls for supportive measures from government and business-such as relocation aid and income support-to ease transitions as AI accelerates. Other tech leaders echo this trend, with empathy and collaboration becoming premium assets as AI handles more analytical tasks. Upskilling remains central to navigating the AI era.

4 Google Gemini Smartwatch Features You Need To Start Using

December 14, 2025, 3:52 AM EST. Google Gemini is coming to Android smartwatches, replacing Google Assistant on many devices and often shipping by default on Pixel Watch. The Gemini Wear OS app unlocks AI-powered productivity and entertainment on your wrist, with deep integrations to Gmail, Google Maps, Google Calendar, and YouTube Music. It understands conversational language and can handle multi-step tasks, turning simple prompts into finished actions. In music moments, you can say commands like 'play music to help me focus' or 'build a playlist for my evening run,' and Gemini will generate a YouTube Music playlist with minimal taps. Whether you're on a Pixel Watch or another Android smartwatch, Gemini on Wear OS broadens what a smartwatch can do-from voice control to contextual workflows.

IKEA's VÄSTMÄRKE Wireless Charger: Cute, practical Qi2 charger with built-in cable storage

December 14, 2025, 3:20 AM EST. IKEA's latest foray into smart home accessories leans playful without sacrificing practicality. The VÄSTMÄRKE wireless chargers come in two forms: a $10 model that doubles as a donut-shaped grip with a built-in USB-C cable, and a $25 variant with lighting and a central column to cradle your phone. Both charge at Qi2 speeds and attach magnetically to MagSafe-compatible iPhones and Pixelsnap-equipped Pixels. The design also doubles as cable storage, keeping the USB-C cord tucked away. Beyond chargers, IKEA is continuing its smart home refresh after parting ways with Sonos in May 2025, rolling out Matter-connected remotes, lights, and sensors, signaling a push toward more integrated, minimalist tech in home goods.

Could Nvidia Be the Most Undervalued AI Stock Heading Into 2026?

December 14, 2025, 3:04 AM EST. Nvidia trades with a market cap around $4.5 trillion and is touted as potentially the most undervalued AI stock today. Proponents point to a forward P/E under 25 and a PEG under 0.7, alongside roughly $52 billion in net cash and expected free cash flow near $85 billion this year. Despite a high trailing multiple, analysts project strong momentum: Q4 revenue up about 65% YoY to around $65 billion, with 2026 growth supported by cloud giants and other adopters of AI. The company's ecosystem-built around its GPUs, CUDA software, and data-center solutions-positions Nvidia to benefit from multi-trillion-dollar capex in data infrastructure. A potential U.S.-China export shift for H200 chips could further lift sales, strengthening Nvidia's long-term thesis.

Poll: Vote for Your PS5 Game of the Year 2025 (Up to 5 Titles)

December 14, 2025, 2:22 AM EST. Vote in Push Square's official PS5 Game of the Year 2025 poll. You can select 3 to 5 games from a list of 50 titles, with weighted votes-your first choice earns more points than your second, etc.-and your picks will be tallied alongside staff votes to crown the year's PS5 Game of the Year. The winner receives a dedicated Community Game of the Year award and feature article. The poll runs over the weekend and closes at midnight GMT on Monday, December 15. Cast thoughtful votes and share your picks in the comments to explain your decisions; this is your chance to influence the final result.

Kirby Air Riders Dev Team Nearing Disbandment Amid Final Patch

December 14, 2025, 2:20 AM EST. Yesterday's patch for Kirby Air Riders on Switch 2 (Version 1.2.0) may be one of the last major updates. A roughly translated post attributes the decision to director Masahiro Sakurai, saying the development team will disband soon, leaving little time for balance tweaks. He mentions there could be one more round of adjustments, but after that the racer's ongoing work may end. Sakurai previously said in October there are no plans for DLC or similar content, with everything already in the game. For more details, check our patch notes story on Nintendo Life. How do you feel about the potential end of support for Kirby Air Riders?

Hades II: The Must-Play Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive of 2025

December 14, 2025, 2:18 AM EST. Hades II is a standout Switch and Switch 2 exclusive for 2025. Although it began on PC, its full release now lands on Nintendo's handhelds, delivering the hallmark roguelike thrills fans crave. The sequel follows Melinoe, a witch trained by Hecate, as she faces Chronos across the Underworld and Olympus. With stylish visuals, a spectacular soundtrack, and tight combat, the game rewards persistence and lets players enjoy quick, on-the-go sessions or longer binges. Its strong story and charming characters fit perfectly into Nintendo's portable ethos, making Hades II a must-play on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. A top pick among 2025 exclusives, Supergiant's myth-reimagining continues to elevate the platform.

Poco Pad X1 & Pad M1 Review: Budget Android Tablets With Big Screens and Long Battery Life

December 14, 2025, 2:16 AM EST. Two budget Android tablets, the Poco Pad X1 and Pad M1, aim to outsize the iPad on value rather than raw premium. The X1 focuses on a fast 11.2-inch 3.2K display and gaming-friendly performance, while the M1 offers a larger 12.1-inch 2.5K panel and Poco's biggest battery yet for long movie marathons and sketching sessions. Both adopt a quiet, metal design in Grey or Blue with distinct camera modules. Pros include a strong display-for-the-money and a broad accessory ecosystem; cons note the weight and the price escalation when fully kitted. Together they form a cohesive ecosystem that supports gaming, media, and light work at a compelling price, delivering more screen, battery, and versatility than many rivals in the budget segment.

Smartphones feel boring – and that's actually good

December 14, 2025, 2:00 AM EST. Ending the year, this piece argues that smartphones have entered a phase of design stagnation. The Galaxy S26 is expected to look a lot like the S25, echoing the line 'Meet the new boss, same as the old boss.' Mundanity, once dull, has become a strength: predictability, reliability, and less hype. folding devices offer novelty, but even there progress is incremental. Today's phones remain stubbornly similar – an oblong slab with multiple cameras, varying front-bezel, and shifting camera layouts. If the next year brings little dramatic change, perhaps that quiet consistency is exactly what users and the industry need.

Divinity Reboot: Larian Unveils Its Biggest RPG Yet After Baldur's Gate 3

December 14, 2025, 1:50 AM EST. Since Baldur's Gate 3 exploded onto the scene, fans have waited to see what Larian Studios would do next. The company has confirmed it will skip Baldur's Gate 4 and branch out with a soft reboot of Divinity, signaling a broader ambition for the series. The reveal trailer at The Game Awards hinted at a new scale and freedom, with Divinity positioned as Larian's largest game to date. Larian describes the project as an RPG with unprecedented breadth and depth, leveraging the studio's expanding resources and a growing audience that has embraced BG3's blend of story, choice and chaos. Compared to Original Sin 2 and its Definitive Edition, this new entry promises the next evolution of Larian's signature formula, while staying true to the series' core emphasis on player agency and vibrant worldbuilding.

Eric Schmidt: AI could code autonomously and may reach AGI in years

December 14, 2025, 1:48 AM EST. Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt expressed astonishment at AI's ability to autonomously generate code, admitting his own role could become obsolete. He said AI will automate routine business tasks-from billing and accounting to product design-and could deliver artificial general intelligence (AGI) within three to five years. Schmidt noted that at leading labs, AI already writes about 10-20% of code, and warned that recursive self-improvement could accelerate the trend. Yet he stressed that human oversight is essential to preserve agency and freedom as AI expands in the enterprise. The takeaway: the real economic impact may lie in transforming corporate processes and cost structures, not just flashy coding demos.

SpaceX Reaches 550th Falcon 9 Booster Landing as 27 Starlink Satellites Launch from Vandenberg

December 14, 2025, 1:44 AM EST. SpaceX celebrated a milestone as it recovered its 550th Falcon 9 booster after the rocket's first stage lofted 27 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base. The booster, labeled B1093, touched down on the autonomous drone ship 'Of Course I Still Love You' following its ninth launch and return. This mission pushes SpaceX's Starlink mega-constellation to over 9,300 active satellites (out of more than 10,000 launched since 2019). SpaceX also marked its 162nd Falcon 9 flight in 2025 and the program's 580th flight overall. The Starlink network continues to expand broadband access and onboard connectivity for airlines and cell providers.

Merck and Nvidia launch KERMT: a multitask drug-discovery AI model

December 14, 2025, 1:12 AM EST. Merck and Nvidia have expanded the AI-powered drug discovery race with KERMT, a small-molecule model pretrained on over 11 million molecules and fine-tuned for industrial workflows. Built atop the GROVER architecture, KERMT improves predictive performance across public data and Merck's internal datasets after multitask fine-tuning. The collaboration aims to better forecast ADMET properties and accelerate early development, with Merck noting speedups in calculation time and memory efficiency-an eco-friendly gain enabled by Nvidia's infrastructure. The move joins a broader trend of pharma-tech partnerships (Lilly with Nvidia, Novo with Anthropic/AWS) as firms seek faster target identification and optimized compounds amid lengthy clinical trials.

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