Holiday Android game and app deals kick off with Forager, D&D Lords of Waterdeep, Crying Suns, and more
December 18, 2025, 7:46 PM EST. Today's roundup flags a wave of holiday Android app deals on Google Play, with price drops on strategy and RPG hits like D&D Lords of Waterdeep, Forager, Slay the Spire, and Crying Suns. Also discounted: Lovecraft's Untold Stories, Twilight Struggle, Terra Mystica, Sentinels of the Multiverse, Gaia Project, Viticulture, and The Castles of Burgundy. Don't miss hardware promos: Samsung Odyssey monitors from $170, Google's Pixel 10 Pro Fold at $400 off, the current-gen Galaxy Tab $140 off, and the Retinal 2K Ring Doorbell Plus at $144. The roundup also highlights the Odyssey Ark 4K UHD display deal with $50 in free credit. Happy shopping for games and gear this holiday season.
iOS 26.3 beta arrives: how to download and top new features
December 18, 2025, 7:44 PM EST. Apple's iOS 26.3 public beta is out, letting iPhone users preview the next update. To download, sign up for Apple's beta program and follow the step-by-step guide to enroll and install the beta profile on your device. The release is expected in early 2026, after the public launch of iOS 26.2. The update brings a handful of small but noteworthy features that testers can explore before the final release.
Intel's Washington Strategy Under Fire: Leadership Shakeup, AI Push, and SambaNova Talks
December 18, 2025, 7:42 PM EST. Intel has shuffled senior posts in government affairs, marketing, and advanced technology strategy while facing renewed U.S. scrutiny over China-linked tooling and amid AI acquisition chatter around SambaNova. The moves signal a push to deepen influence in Washington and accelerate an AI-focused growth plan. A SambaNova deal, if it materializes, could help Intel offer more complete AI platforms and simplify its portfolio around AI workloads, potentially reinforcing its long-term roadmap. Yet questions linger on foundry execution, lagging process nodes, and the scale of ongoing OpEx/CapEx needs. The top risks are regulatory and political pressure around China exposure and national security. In the near term, the key catalyst is whether Intel can credibly expand its AI platform narrative; the earnings impact remains uncertain despite optimistic forecasting.
Androidify lands on Wear OS, turns selfies into Android bot watch faces for Pixel Watch
December 18, 2025, 7:26 PM EST. Google is bringing Androidify to Wear OS, letting you turn a selfie into an Android bot that becomes a watch face on your Pixel Watch. The update, rolling out today (Dec 18), lets you personalize the bot on your phone and transfer the result to your wrist in seconds. It's part of Google's Watch Face Push initiative, with resources for developers to create dynamic watch faces. The feature uses Gemini and Imagen for the bot transformation, with Veo 3 handling a short animation option. First shown at I/O 2025, the push signals a broader move toward deeper personalization across devices. To try it, download the updated Androidify from the Play Store, snap a selfie, tune the look, and apply it to your watch face.
OnePlus 15R launches with 7,400mAh battery, 165Hz display and Snapdragon 8 Gen 5
December 18, 2025, 7:18 PM EST. OnePlus has unveiled the OnePlus 15R, a high-end handset packing a 7,400mAh battery, 80W charging, and a 6.83-inch AMOLED with a blazing 165Hz refresh rate. It runs a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and comes with 12GB RAM, plus 256GB or 512GB storage. The camera setup mirrors the OnePlus 15 with a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide, a 32MP front camera, and 4K/120fps video. The 15R adds stronger water resistance (IP66/IP68/IP69/IP69K) and starts at $699.99 / £649 (256GB); $799.99 / £729 for 512GB. Pre-orders are open now with sales from January 15, in Charcoal Black or Mint Breeze. Bundles include OnePlus Buds 4 and a £100 discount on the 512GB model. Also announced: OnePlus Pad Go 2 and Watch Lite.
Claude AI Safeguards: Compassionate Handling of Suicide Risk, Reducing Sycophancy, and 18+ Policy
December 18, 2025, 7:16 PM EST. Claude AI safeguards focus on two areas: suicide/self-harm handling and reducing sycophancy, plus an 18+ age requirement. The Safeguards team guides behavior, with a publicly available system prompt and a reinforcement learning process that uses human preference data and model insights. Product safeguards include a suicide and self-harm classifier that flags risky conversations and displays a banner directing users to professional support-such as helplines, mental health professionals, or trusted contacts. The system directs users to trained professionals or country-specific resources when needed, ensuring compassionate, accurate responses while acknowledging AI limitations.
DJI Firmware Roulette: One Controller, Two Drones, Zero Sanity
December 18, 2025, 7:14 PM EST. Hello readers, Rafael here, exploring how firmware can turn a simple flight into a maze. The Neo 2 Motion Fly More Combo is dazzling, but the real drama is using the RCN3 controller with two different DJI drones. DJI's firmware versions differ between the Neo 2 and the Mini 5 Pro, so every switch forces a controller update – from 01.00.0100 to 01.00.0200, and back again. There's no workaround, just a tedious cycle that ruins quick test flights and side-by-side comparisons. It's a reminder that firmware compatibility can be as chaotic as a software beta, even for polished gadgets. Will DJI fix this, or is this the new normal in drone ecosystems?
Alphabet's AI Breakthroughs and Renewable Deals Could Forge a Durable Advantage
December 18, 2025, 7:12 PM EST. Alphabet is tying its AI momentum to its energy strategy. Google's Gemini 3 and Gemini 3 Flash fuel a surging cloud push even as Alphabet posts record Q3 revenue and expands its data centers footprint. Simultaneously, the company is locking in long-term clean power deals – including a 21-year agreement with TotalEnergies in Malaysia and a 30-MW solar project in Kedah – to de-risk the energy needs behind AI expansion. Beyond Search and Cloud, ambitions extend to Waymo and quantum computing, underscoring a broader tech portfolio. The narrative suggests Alphabet's growth hinges on AI features driving revenue faster than capital expenditure (capex), while renewable contracts support higher-cost investments. Investors should weigh margin pressure if revenue growth slows, versus earnings upside from AI and sustainable energy.
Apple updates developer agreement to offset unpaid fees and tighten control over app revenues
December 18, 2025, 7:10 PM EST. Apple has updated its developer license agreement to allow offsetting or recouping unpaid funds from end users' in-app purchases and other fees, potentially shaping revenue for developers. The change could affect teams using external payment methods in regions where local law applies, including the EU, US, and Japan, with Apple able to deduct money assigned as commissions or taxes "at any time." It also widens collection to affiliates or parent companies. The update introduces a shift from the Core Technology Fee (CTF) to the Core Technology Commission (CTC) in 2026 for EU apps, based on a percentage rather than a flat fee. Additional sections touch on age assurance tech and new terms for apps in Japan. The stance raises questions about how Apple will determine amounts owed and enforce deductions.
China's EV Wave Reaches End-of-Life: Recycling, Gray Markets, and the Race to Handle Buried Batteries
December 18, 2025, 6:54 PM EST. By late 2025, nearly 60% of China's new cars were electric or plug-in hybrids, but the first generation of EVs is reaching end-of-life. The article follows Wang Lei's 2016 EV experience, illustrating retirements and the second-hand market. He sells his aging EV for 8,000 yuan plus a government scrappage subsidy, illustrating the surge in retirements. A growing battery recycling industry is straining to keep pace with shipments of aging packs, and a gray market has emerged that shortcuts safety and environmental standards. Regulators and firms are building formal take-back networks and recycling capacity, aiming to reach about 820,000 tons of retired batteries this year and toward 1 million tons by 2030. The story highlights the need for scalable, safe end-of-life solutions for China's green transition.
Best Games of 2025: A.V. Club Critics Reveal Top 25 Ballots
December 18, 2025, 6:48 PM EST. The A.V. Club convened 16 critics to compile the best games of 2025 through a rigorous scoring system. Each writer submitted a Top 10; points ranged from 10 for a first-place pick to 1 for 10th. To boost consensus, any title mentioned on three ballots or more earned an extra point per ballot. Editors then refined the order, producing a definitive top 25 and an alphabetized list of all 74 titles with at least one vote. The piece presents each critic's ballots (e.g., Despelote, Clair Obscur: Expedition, Hollow Knight: Silksong, Silent Hill f) plus the overarching rankings. It's a celebratory snapshot of 2025's indie and major releases, inviting you to dive in.
Rocket Lab launches four DiskSat satellites for U.S. Space Force and NASA
December 18, 2025, 6:46 PM EST. Rocket Lab's Electron rocket launched four DiskSat satellites for the U.S. Space Force and NASA on a Space Test Program mission, designated STP-S30 and nicknamed 'Don't Be Such A Square'. Liftoff occurred at 12:03 a.m. EST from Wallops Island, Virginia, deploying the satellites into a ~550 km Low Earth Orbit. The DiskSats, built by The Aerospace Corporation under NASA's Small Spacecraft and Distributed Systems program, feature a one-meter primary structure and will test operations at two orbits, including Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO). Two buses will remain at 550 km, while two will operate in lower altitudes, carrying experiments ranging from communications to space environment sensing. The mission is managed by the US Space Force's Space Systems Command and highlights ongoing efforts to advance national space capabilities under STP.
Poll: Voters Favor Slow AI Development But Disagree on Oversight
December 18, 2025, 6:44 PM EST. New Fox News poll shows AI development should be careful (80%), with only 20% backing rapid progress. Voters split over oversight: most favor industry monitoring (28%), followed by state governments (26%) and Congress (24%); only 11% want the president to regulate, and about 10% say no regulation at all. Demographics tilt toward caution: women, voters under 30, liberals, and moms are more likely to slow down, while men, voters 65+, conservatives, and dads lean toward moving faster. Nearly half (48%) use AI monthly; concern is rising (63% very/extremely worried). People anticipate AI may widen income inequality (44% foresee an increase vs 20% who expect a decrease). Usage and policy views vary, but cross-party agreement on some concerns is limited.
Is AI Making Us Boring? How LLMs Shape Language, Culture, and Empathy
December 18, 2025, 6:40 PM EST. Explores whether AI chatbots and LLMs push human conversation toward uniformity. Maik Bieleke and Wanja Wolff describe the 'boredom trap': LLMs rely on predictive probabilities learned from vast text data, producing high-probability words that can narrow our expressive range and make language feel monotonous. A potential risk is a cultural feedback loop in which our own speech absorbs AI buzzwords-'delve,' 'boast,' 'swift'-eroding diverse linguistic expression. Yet the piece also notes possible benefits of chatbot companionship for loneliness, and even higher perceived empathy in some cases when compared with professionals, per Dariya Ovsyannikova. Hiromu Yakura's work warns that this shift could dilute human speech further. The takeaway: be mindful of how AI-driven communication shapes both culture and individual voices.
Sony and Tencent Settle Over Horizon Clone Dispute: Settlement Reached
December 18, 2025, 6:38 PM EST. Sony and Tencent have reached a settlement in their dispute over alleged similarities between Sony's Horizon franchise and Tencent's Light of Motiram. The terms are confidential, and the case has been dismissed with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled. Each side will bear its own legal costs. Sony first sued in July 2025, alleging Light of Motiram was a "slavish clone" of Horizon Zero Dawn, Horizon Forbidden West, and related titles. Tencent countered that Sony sought a monopoly on genre conventions. The parties had public exchanges, but Tencent halted marketing ahead of a January 2026 court date, with Light of Motiram delisted on Steam and the Epic Games Store. The settlement ends the dispute.
Steam Winter Sale 2025: Top Deals, Dates and Discounts
December 18, 2025, 6:30 PM EST. Steam's Winter Sale 2025 is live, running through January 5, 2026, with hundreds of discounted games. Expect deep cuts on several 2025 standout titles, including Hades 2, Borderlands 4, and Dispatch. Other notable deals include Megabonk, Marvel's Spider-Man 2, and Assassin's Creed Shadows. This event caps off a year of big price drops, with daily/flash discounts and bundles across genres. Be sure to check for time-limited offers and wishlist reminders. Looking ahead to 2026, Valve has revealed dates for upcoming sales: Detective Fest and Board Game Fest in January, Steam Next Fest in February, and the Steam Spring Sale in March. Whether you're hunting for RPGs, action, or indie darlings, the Winter Sale is your best chance to fill your backlog.
Pauling.AI's 'Scientist-as-a-Service' Aims to Slash Drug-Discovery Timelines with AI
December 18, 2025, 6:22 PM EST. Pauling.AI, a Seattle-area startup, is using AI to automate early drug-discovery steps under a scientist-as-a-service model. Founder Javier Tordable says the platform can complete weeks of work that once took months, curbing time and cost to advance candidates from computational chemistry to lab testing. The six-person, remote team leverages automation tools that integrate with existing LLMs and databases to generate curated small-molecule candidates, with antibodies planned next. The company has secured undisclosed pre-seed funding from Flex Capital and angels and serves under a dozen customers, including several academic institutions. If successful, this approach could help tackle rare diseases and broaden access to therapies, beyond traditional pharma return models.
Germany awards $1.9B Rheinmetall-Iceye SAR satellite contract for sovereign defense space constellation
December 18, 2025, 6:14 PM EST. Germany awarded a $1.9 billion contract to the Rheinmetall-Iceye joint venture to build and operate a space-based SAR constellation for the armed forces. The deal, running through 2030 with options to extend, will deliver persistent, sovereign intelligence and reconnaissance data for NATO's eastern flank, including the permanent brigade Panzerbrigade 45 in Lithuania. Production begins in 2026 at a new facility in Neuss, with the JV owning satellites, the data chain, ground infrastructure and analytics services. The project underscores Berlin's push to control space-based capabilities and reduce dependence on external providers as part of a broader defense modernization drive spurred by Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The constellation aims to support Lithuania's brigade and strengthen the Suwałki Corridor's security.
Galaxy Z Fold 8 tipped to upgrade two cameras next year
December 18, 2025, 6:10 PM EST. New rumors suggest Galaxy Z Fold 8 will upgrade two cameras, continuing the Fold 7's trend. GalaxyClub claims the device will keep a 200MP main sensor and 10MP selfie cam, with no under-display camera returning. The upgrades target a 12MP telephoto (same 3x zoom) and a 50MP ultrawide, up from Fold 7's 12MP. The report also links the Fold 8 to the Galaxy S26 Ultra sensor lineup. As with any rumor, take it with caution; an unveiling as early as July 2026 is possible but far from certain. The piece also mentions a potential Galaxy TriFold sequel sharing camera tech with the Fold line.
Google Pixel QPR3 Beta 1 Brings Flashlight Brightness Slider, Widget Removal, and Location Indicators
December 18, 2025, 6:08 PM EST. Google kicks off the Android QPR3 Beta 1 for Pixel devices (Pixel 6 and newer), offering a mix of housekeeping tweaks and a few widely anticipated features. Highlights include a vertical brightness slider for the flashlight, easing on-the-fly light control, and a redesign-friendly change that lets you remove the At A Glance widget from the home screen. The update also improves visibility of location usage by showing a blue indicator when apps access your location. As with prior betas, changes are incremental and will roll out to more devices and features across the coming months. Eligible Pixel owners can enroll through the Android Beta Program, with a wider public launch anticipated early next year.
Google Pixel Tablet Drops to All-Time Low on Amazon, Poses Challenge to iPad
December 18, 2025, 6:06 PM EST. Google's Pixel Tablet is slipping into price territory that makes it a serious iPad rival. At 11 inches with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, the Android-powered tablet is down to $338 from $399, an all-time low that spotlight its value. It runs Google's software suite with AI features like Circle to Search, Magic Editor, and native Gemini help, plus a Tensor G2 processor and Titan M2 security coprocessor for smooth performance and protection. The 11-inch LCD screen, 2560×1600 resolution, and 16:10 aspect ratio support productivity tasks with Split Screen. It offers dock charging, smart home controls, Google Meet video calls, quad speakers, and long battery life (~12 hours). A compelling all-around option for Google ecosystem users looking beyond pricier rivals.
Analyst says Tesla's auto business may be worth only $30-$40 per share despite stock rally on autonomy bets
December 18, 2025, 6:02 PM EST. An analyst from William Blair argues that Tesla's stock has been lifted by hopes for autonomy, robotaxi and AI-driven growth, while its core EV business remains undervalued. Jed Dorsheimer says the auto segment, when analyzed as part of a sum-of-the-parts picture, may account for only about $30-$40 of value per share, with the rest tied to autonomy and related tech. The view comes as Tesla's shares hit new highs on robotaxi chatter, even as near-term revenue still hinges on a competitive EV market and regulatory headwinds. He estimates autonomy now represents well over 70% of Tesla's value, with the energy and robotics bets eclipsing the traditional car business. Regulators are also scrutinizing autopilot marketing, underscoring execution risk if robotaxi timelines slip.
Waymo and Tesla converge on end-to-end foundation models for self-driving
December 18, 2025, 6:00 PM EST. Recent research shows the self-driving field is converging on end-to-end, foundation-model approaches. Wayve built a single transformer-based model to handle the entire driving task, while Tesla abandoned a purely modular code base for an end-to-end system. Conventional wisdom painted Waymo as stuck with hand-written rules, but Waymo's EMMA papers and recent disclosures show a similar direction: raw sensor data mapped into driving outputs via a foundation model. Although EMMA was a research prototype with challenges, Waymo today operates its commercial fleet guided by an end-to-end model, illustrating growing parity with rivals. The article draws on Waymo, Wayve, and Tesla talks and a Dolgov interview to explain how these approaches overlap in practice.
Santa Ragione's Horses sells 18,000 copies after Steam and Epic bans, but studio's future remains uncertain
December 18, 2025, 5:56 PM EST. Santa Ragione's horror game Horses has sold over 18,000 copies despite being banned from Steam and Epic Games Store. Valve told the studio it would not host the game on Steam, and Epic Games Store later paused support, limiting access to PC players and harming development-cost recovery. A recent update puts net revenue at about $65,000, funded by media coverage, GOG support, and player reaction, but the amount falls short of stabilizing the studio. The team says they may pursue a new prototype if sales stay steady, but many members will need other work to cover debts and salaries. Santa Ragione also called for clearer rules and more accountability from distribution platforms to prevent future bans and delays.
iPhone Fold: Launch slated for 2026, shipments pushed to 2027 per Kuo
December 18, 2025, 5:54 PM EST. Apple's first foldable iPhone, nicknamed the iPhone Fold, is expected to debut at the fall event in 2026, but shipments may not begin until 2027, according to Ming-Chi Kuo. In a research note, the analyst cautions about early-stage yield issues and other manufacturing challenges ahead of mass production, with supply likely constrained through the end of 2026 even as demand stays strong. The device is said to cost around $2,400 in the US and feature a 5.8-inch cover screen plus a 7.58-inch inner flexible panel. Apple remains on track to reveal the foldable model in the second half of 2026, but smoother shipments could lag, potentially shaping the foldable market next year.
Elon Musk's net worth tops $681B, more than double the next richest as Tesla stock surges
December 18, 2025, 5:50 PM EST. Elon Musk's net worth has climbed to about $681 billion, more than double the next-richest, Larry Page, on the Forbes Real-Time Billionaires list. Tesla's stock rally widened his lead atop the wealth rankings, with Jeff Bezos, Sergey Brin, and Larry Ellison rounding out the top five. The move followed Musk's remarks on testing robotaxis without safety monitors, and regulators at the California DMV paused a 30-day sales suspension while Tesla addresses marketing of Autopilot and Full Self-Driving. The DMV focus centers on the term Autopilot, as Tesla labels FSD as "Supervised" in some contexts and pursues robotaxi pilots with human safety monitors and remote support.
OpenAI launches ChatGPT app store and Apps SDK to grow developer ecosystem
December 18, 2025, 5:34 PM EST. OpenAI is expanding ChatGPT with an official app store and a beta Apps SDK. Developers can submit apps for review via the OpenAI Developer platform, track approval status, and publish inside ChatGPT once approved. The new app directory in the ChatGPT tools menu builds on prior integrations with Expedia, Spotify, Zillow, and Canva, letting users perform actions like ordering groceries, turning outlines into slides, or searching for apartments directly in conversations. OpenAI says additional approved apps will roll out over the coming year, signaling a broader ecosystem expansion and deeper in-chat capabilities.
Sony-Tencent End Legal Battle Over Horizon Lookalike Light of Motiram
December 18, 2025, 5:28 PM EST. Sony has ended its lawsuit against Tencent over a Horizon-like game, Light of Motiram. The title has been removed from Steam and the Epic Games Store, and the case was dismissed after a confidential settlement. Tencent said both sides are pleased with the resolution and will not comment further. Sony accused Tencent of copying the post-apocalyptic Horizon aesthetic and argued Tencent's behavior threatened its rights to Horizon-like games, while Tencent claimed the actions resembled a legal shell game. In the meantime, Sony and NCSoft announced Horizon Steel Frontiers, a mobile and PC MMORPG in development, signaling continued growth of the Horizon franchise despite the dispute.
NVIDIA RTX PRO 5000 72GB Blackwell GPU Now Generally Available for Desktop Agentic AI
December 18, 2025, 5:26 PM EST. Now generally available: the NVIDIA RTX PRO 5000 72GB Blackwell GPU brings high-throughput, memory-rich AI power to desktops. Built on the Blackwell architecture, this 72GB ultrafast GDDR7 memory version delivers 2,142 TOPS AI performance and lets developers train, fine-tune and prototype larger models locally, preserving data privacy and reducing latency. Users can choose between 72GB and the existing 48GB RTX PRO 5000 to fit budgets and workloads. In benchmarks, the 72GB model delivers 3.5x image-generation and 2x text-generation versus prior-gen hardware, with render-time reductions up to 4.7x across Arnold, Chaos V-Ray, Blender, D5 Render and Redshift, and >2x graphics performance for CAD/design tasks. Ideal for memory-hungry, multimodal, agentic AI pipelines including RAG and multi-model workflows.
Florida schools plan to vastly expand AI gun-detection despite accuracy and cost concerns
December 18, 2025, 5:24 PM EST. Florida districts are expanding AI-powered gun-detection like ZeroEyes, relying on continuous monitoring and human review after AI flags. When images are flagged, district staff text superintendents and alert police if reviews suggest a real threat. ZeroEyes says it has detected thousands of weapons over three years, including a Texas incident where a minor with an AK-47 was on campus but no shots were fired. Schools typically pay about $60 per camera per month, with larger contracts and statewide rollouts running into millions annually. Critics say the company is capitalizing on fear with limited proof of value, and researchers note that police response can lag even when alerts are rapid. Cost, transparency, and effectiveness remain central questions for expansion.
Nvidia vs Alphabet: Which AI Chip Stock Is Best for 2026?
December 18, 2025, 5:20 PM EST. AI-chip race reshapes tech stocks. Nvidia leads with dominant data-center GPU chips and a massive order book for Blackwell and Rubin, but its revenue remains highly tied to data-center demand, offering a high ceiling with a risk of a sharp downside if spending slows. Alphabet is building its own TPU ecosystem and recently trained Gemini on TPUs, signaling safer diversification and potential new monetization as it eyes selling TPUs to other hyperscalers. While Alphabet is unlikely to dethrone Nvidia at data-center leadership, its in-house chips could add resilience and expand the broader AI platform. Investors are weighing which stock is the better buy into 2026: explosive growth for Nvidia versus a defensive AI infrastructure proposition from Alphabet.
Best Steam Winter Sale Discounts on 2025 Games
December 18, 2025, 5:10 PM EST. Steam's 2025 Winter Sale is live through January 5, offering deep discounts on many of the year's biggest titles. This roundup curates the best deals in an alphabetized list, with each entry showing the discount price and the standard price, and linking to Game Informer reviews where available to aid decisions. Whether you're chasing single-player epics, co-op classics, or indie darlings, you'll find notable savings-from must-play blockbusters to hidden gems. Pro tips: compare prices, set price-drop alerts, and grab titles while the sale lasts. Let the holiday gaming begin.
Trump Mobile's Vaporware T1 Remains Elusive as Refurbished Phones Hit the Market
December 18, 2025, 5:08 PM EST. Trump Mobile's promised T1 remains vaporware, but the company is selling refurbished phones from other brands on its site, including Samsung S24/S23 and iPhone 15/14, often at the same price or higher than competing retailers. NBC News ordered a T1 in August to track the device's development and received a confirmation, but has not seen a shipment or received explanations from Trump Mobile or the Trump Organization. Gizmodo reported the pattern, while the company previously claimed the phone was made in the USA – a claim that was quietly removed from the site after scrutiny.
Trump's AI Mineral Hunt Goes Global: The Push for Critical Minerals and AI Dominance
December 18, 2025, 5:06 PM EST. AI supremacy hinges on access to critical minerals, a cluster of about 60 materials the USGS says are vital to security. As the Trump administration widens its search beyond U.S. borders-from China to Ukraine and Greenland-officials argue that securing raw materials is essential to long-term supply chain security for defense and tech. The Foreign Policy report notes intensified efforts under the Trump term, including coordination around Pax Silica, a summit convened in Washington led by Jacob Helberg to map the mineral landscape and shield the silicon supply chain. With the push against Beijing and renewed focus on rare earths, the administration ties mineral diplomacy to its bid for AI dominance, reshaping foreign policy chapters around resource access and strategic partnerships.
Top 10 High-Performance Computing Companies Driving Global Innovation
December 18, 2025, 5:02 PM EST. Explore the leading players shaping the global HPC landscape, from Atos SE and IBM to Nvidia, as they push advances in AI, data analytics, and scientific research. The piece notes the market's growth from about USD 54.39 billion in 2024 to an anticipated USD 109.99 billion by 2032, driven by a CAGR of 9.2%. These firms deliver cutting-edge GPUs, supercomputing systems, and cloud-AI integrations to governments and enterprises, enabling faster simulations, breakthroughs in research, and smarter enterprise solutions. Notable moves include Atos' government negotiations on advanced computing assets and IBM's collaboration with Nvidia to extend HPC offerings. Overall, the report underscores why HPC remains foundational to innovation across industries.
UK: One in three use AI for emotional support, AI Security Institute flags cyber risks and control concerns
December 18, 2025, 5:00 PM EST. UK adults increasingly turn to AI for emotional support and social interaction, with about one in three and one in 25 using it daily, per a government-backed study by the AI Security Institute (AISI). The two-year, multi-AI assessment of over 30 advanced systems examined security, chemistry and biology. The report says it will help firms fix issues before AI is widely used. The poll of over 2,000 adults found chatbots (e.g., ChatGPT) and voice assistants drive the trend, while discussions on Reddit showed withdrawal symptoms when services fail. Beyond user impact, the research highlights cyber risks but also potential for defense, noting rapid gains in spotting flaws and performing expert tasks. It also notes breakthroughs in chemistry and concerns about "humans losing control" in some scenarios.
Quantum Leap in Modeling Small-Scale Turbulence with Quantum Computers
December 18, 2025, 4:58 PM EST. Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh and Penn State are pursuing a 'Small-Scale Turbulence as a Quantum System' using quantum computing to tackle one of physics' toughest problems: turbulence. Traditional models simplify the chaotic eddies that span multiple length scales, but simulating air around a wing could take classical computers millions of years. Mendoza Arenas and Yang, supported by the Kaufman Foundation, aim to design algorithms that use qubits to capture the random, multi-scale nature of turbulence via superposition and quantum mechanics. Rather than fixing a single outcome, the project seeks to model turbulence as a network of interacting scales, potentially transforming simulations for engineering and medicine and advancing our understanding of fluid dynamics.
Meta Quest 3S price drops to £249.99 – perfect last-minute Christmas VR gift
December 18, 2025, 4:56 PM EST. Meta slashed the price of its Meta Quest 3S to £249.99 (from £289.99), a timely Christmas deal on the budget-friendly VR headset. The Quest 3S keeps the same core performance and mixed-reality features as the Quest 3, but trims display and optics to hit a lower price. If you're shopping for immersive gaming, entertainment, or fitness, this deal makes a compelling choice. Our Quest 3S review awarded 4.5 stars, praising its solid specs and Horizon OS software, and calling it the world's best affordable VR headset. Powered by the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2, it offers strong performance-twice as quick as Quest 2. Deal ends December 21; check our discount codes hub for more saves.
An Actual Gamechanger: Could Starlink Bring Global Internet to Tesla Cars?
December 18, 2025, 4:52 PM EST. Tesla's latest patent hints at Starlink satellite internet receivers built directly into vehicles. A roof design that's transparent to radio frequencies could let satellite signals pass, addressing a long-standing barrier for in-car connectivity. If real, the move would pair Tesla's software and sensors with SpaceX's global network, turning cars into mobile hotspots and remote workstations. The potential benefits are broad: reliable internet anywhere could power remote climate control, software updates, asset monitoring, and enhanced apps even in dead zones. While timing and specifics remain unclear, Tesla has a track record of rapid tech deployment, and SpaceX integration is a natural fit given Musk's leadership roles. If confirmed, this could redefine mobility by making Starlink a standard feature in future Teslas.
Amazon Restores Black Friday Pricing: All M4 MacBook Air Models Now $250 Off
December 18, 2025, 4:48 PM EST. Amazon has reinstated Black Friday/Cyber Monday pricing on the entire M4 MacBook Air lineup, offering $250 off across all configurations on both the 13-inch and 15-inch models. This deal mirrors the pre-holiday pricing seen at Best Buy, with several colors and RAM/storage combos now discounted. Note that delivery dates for Christmas depend on location, but most orders appear to ship in time at press. The promotions run across Amazon and are matched at Best Buy. After a period of stock fluctuations-some colors vanished or jumped in price-the current promo brings back the lowest price of the season for 24GB setups as well. Overall, a strong, limited-time opportunity to pick up a high-end MacBook Air at a deep discount.
Google Gemini app adds AI-generated video verification with SynthID watermark detection
December 18, 2025, 4:44 PM EST. Google updates the Gemini app to expand content transparency by letting users verify if a video was edited or created with Google AI. Users can upload a video and ask, 'Was this generated using Google AI?' Gemini scans for the imperceptible SynthID watermark across audio and visuals and explains which segments contain AI-generated elements. Example response: 'SynthID detected within the audio between 10-20 secs. No SynthID detected in the visuals.' Upload limits are 100 MB and 90 seconds. Verification is available in all languages and countries supported by the Gemini app, for both image and video content.
OpenAI launches ChatGPT App Directory and app store ambitions
December 18, 2025, 4:42 PM EST. OpenAI is pushing ChatGPT toward an everything app with an App Directory and a developer SDK for building new experiences inside the bot. The company renames "connectors" to apps and adds capabilities like Apple Music and DoorDash to operate within the chat UI. Earlier launches for Spotify and Zillow now reach more markets, broadening how users interact with services without leaving the chat. OpenAI signals potential monetization options around digital goods as it tests how developers and users engage, hinting at a profitable platform built around ChatGPT while expanding data usage and memory features for enhanced tools.
Fortnite Winterfest 2025: New Collabs, Cosmetics, and Seasonal Surprises
December 18, 2025, 4:40 PM EST. Fortnite Winterfest 2025 brings a surge of new collaborations to the item shop. Already revealed are Harry Potter, SpongeBob Squarepants, and Bleach cosmetics, plus a Patty Wagon car and SpongeBob/Patrick as sidekicks. A Back to the Future crossover update adds a Doc Brown skin and a DeLorean car skin on December 23, with Rocket League owners granted access at no extra cost. Two music collabs expand too, with Hatsune Miku and Sabrina Carpenter receiving holiday-themed skins and new jam tracks. Rumored appearances include Home Alone and Batman Beyond. More drops may still appear before the event wraps.
Rivian CEO: Midprice EV market isn't healthy as Tesla dominates
December 18, 2025, 4:38 PM EST. At Fortune Brainstorm AI, Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe argues the U.S. has few midprice EV options, with Tesla still about 50% of the market. He contrasts roughly 300 affordable ICE choices with perhaps one compelling EV. U.S. EV adoption remains around 5% of new car sales, far below China's >50% EV share and the EU's ~16% BEV share. Ford has shifted away from aggressive EV investment amid weak demand. Rivian aims to expand access with the R2 at about $45,000, hoping more customers will go electric. Scaringe says the constraint is supply, not demand, and sees room for increased competition and greater choice in the U.S.
BattleCrafter VR: Weapon Restoration Simulator Arrives on Quest via Horizon Store
December 18, 2025, 4:36 PM EST. BattleCrafter VR lets players step into the shoes of a galaxy's top restoration specialist, reviving ancient swords, modern rifles, and war artifacts. From VR Factory Games, creators of Bartender VR Simulator, the title challenges you to rebuild weapons and armor and showcase them in Mars' War Museum domes. Complete missions to restore four key artifacts, with rewards funding upgrades like 3D printers, magnetic assembly platforms, and laser welding tools. Exclusive to the Horizon Store for Quest 2 and up, it's priced at $20, with a pre-order discount bringing it to $14 (30% off).
Pixel 10 receives second December update fixing battery drain, touch issues, and cached content
December 18, 2025, 4:34 PM EST. Reddit reports indicate a second December update rolling out to the Pixel 10 family. Verizon's patch notes show a security patch labeled BP4A.251205.006.E1 (~25MB) addressing a severe battery drain, touch unresponsiveness (intermittent touch failures), and issues with cached content after upgrading from Android 14 to Android 16. While this update fixes several problems, it does not explicitly resolve the earlier AOD flicker reported when the Always-On Display is enabled. The rollout also appears for the Pixel 10 Pro XL and Pixel 10 Pro Fold, though some networks like T-Mobile haven't pushed it yet. Google's December update previously introduced the 33-bug fix security patch that touched UI freezes and display quirks.
Xiangyi Li's BenchFlow: Bringing Transparent, Reproducible AI Benchmarking to Industry
December 18, 2025, 4:32 PM EST. Xiangyi Li, a Chinese-born technologist who grew up in Shandong, founded BenchFlow to fix opaque AI evaluations. After studying at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and San José State University and interning at Tesla on evaluating code-generation models, he saw how hard it was to measure AI systems reliably. In 2024, he launched BenchFlow to automate benchmarking, turning a tangle of scripts into a standardized, reproducible process. With evidence that many major benchmarks lack runnable scripts, BenchFlow offers a smart kitchen-style platform where researchers submit a model via an API and receive consistent results across benchmarks. The aim: make AI testing more transparent, accountable, and scalable, addressing safety, reliability, and performance without sacrificing practicality.
The First $100 You Should Spend on Meta Quest Games for Quest 3
December 18, 2025, 4:22 PM EST. Thinking about a new Quest? This guide spotlights a starter lineup of Quest-native games under the $100 budget to keep you playing for hundreds of hours on the Quest 3. The list spans multiplayer shooters like Forefront, Zero Caliber 2, Contractors Showdown: ExfilZone, Spatial Ops, and Strayed, plus puzzle and survival picks for a varied VR library. It also notes you can extend your library with PC VR via Quest Link, Air Link, or Steam Link if you have a capable PC. Start with the top free options, then mix in these picks across cardio, gunplay, stealth, and fantasy swordplay. A practical, genre-spanning starting point to build a thriving Quest collection on a single budget.
GM considers Sterling Anderson as next CEO, report says
December 18, 2025, 4:18 PM EST. GM CEO Mary Barra is reportedly considering Sterling Anderson, the former head of Tesla's Autopilot and co-founder of Aurora, as a potential successor. Anderson joined GM in June as Chief Product Officer to oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of GM's vehicles, integrating hardware and software across gas and electric models. Bloomberg reports Barra is gauging him as a frontrunner to replace her when she steps down, testing whether he can lead a tech-forward reorientation away from Cruise's robotaxi focus toward an eyes-off autonomous-driving vision. The move underscores GM's push to become a software-defined automaker while navigating high-volume EV deployment challenges. If he passes the test, Anderson could become GM's first outsider with a strong tech background to lead the 117-year-old company.
MG Begins Deliveries of World's First Mass-Produced Semi-Solid-State Battery EV
December 18, 2025, 4:16 PM EST. SAIC MG has kicked off deliveries of the MG4 equipped with a semi-solid-state battery-the world's first mass-produced EV with this tech. Priced from 68,800 RMB (~$9,800) to 102,800 RMB (~$14,500), it offers two LFP packs: 42.8 kWh or 53.95 kWh. The semi-solid-state version uses the 53.95 kWh semi-solid manganese-based lithium-ion battery, delivering about 530 km CLTC range. All trims share a front-mounted six-in-one motor at 120 kW and 250 Nm torque, with DC fast charging 30-80% in ~20 minutes. The interior features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 cockpit chip and, on higher trims, a 15.6" infotainment display. SAIC MG says reducing liquid electrolyte to 5% improves safety and cycle life; two needle tests reportedly showed no smoke or fires. November deliveries exceeded 13,000 units, underscoring MG's growing overseas footprint.
Apple Mac mini M4 on sale for $479 (20% off)
December 18, 2025, 4:10 PM EST. Apple's Mac mini M4 is on sale at $479 (about 20% off), matching its Black Friday price. Released in late 2024, the compact desktop delivers strong performance with a base 16GB RAM and 256GB SSD, plus convenient front-facing USB-C and headphone ports. For power users, higher configurations are discounted: 16GB RAM / 512GB SSD for $690 (down from $799), and 24GB RAM / 512GB SSD for $890 (down from $999). The sale, highlighted by Engadget Deals, offers a budget-friendly upgrade for work or gifts. Our takeaway: the M4 balances size, speed, and value, making it a compelling option for those eyeing a capable desktop without breaking the bank.
Teaching Kids About the Effects of Smartphones and Social Media: A Practical Guide for Parents
December 18, 2025, 4:08 PM EST. Discover how to discuss the impact of smartphones and social media with kids, balancing safety, curiosity, and autonomy. This piece highlights the risks and rewards of digital life, including the role of algorithms, the importance of setting boundaries on screen time, and how to empower kids to make healthier choices online. It also examines AI-powered toys and other connected devices, offering tips for parents on evaluating apps, monitoring usage, and fostering open conversations. By focusing on critical thinking and informed decision-making, families can help kids navigate a connected world without letting screens dominate their lives.
NVIDIA Partners with DOE on Genesis Mission to Expand AI Infrastructure and R&D
December 18, 2025, 4:06 PM EST. NVIDIA will join the U.S. Department of Energy's Genesis Mission as a private industry partner to advance AI leadership and global competitiveness. The Genesis Mission, part of an Executive Order, targets energy, scientific discovery and national security, uniting government, industry and academia around a discovery platform. DOE officials expect the collaboration to boost productivity and breakthroughs in American science, energy dominance and security. NVIDIA and DOE are already pursuing results across areas such as weather forecasting via the NVIDIA Apollo platform, manufacturing and supply chain optimization, robotics and autonomous labs, fission and fusion energy, quantum computing research, and biology/materials science. The MOU outlines priorities including open-source AI, digital twins, AI-enabled design and real-time decision-making at the edge. Additional collaboration could accelerate breakthroughs in quantum, materials science, and environmental cleanup.
AirTags Four-Pack Drops to $65 on Amazon Ahead of Holidays
December 18, 2025, 4:02 PM EST. AirTags are back on sale with a four-pack priced at $65 on Amazon, a near-record low for the Bluetooth trackers. The deal arrives just in time for the holidays, making it a solid gift for anyone who tends to misplace items. Features include IP67 water/dust resistance, replaceable batteries lasting about a year, and Precision Finding when paired with newer iPhones. Up to five people can share an AirTag's location, handy for families or travel groups. The post also notes accessory ideas like different cases to attach tags, and tips on timing delivery for Christmas.
Wear OS adds Androidify with AI-generated bugdroid watch faces
December 18, 2025, 3:48 PM EST. Google is expanding Androidify to Wear OS, letting users craft AI-generated bugdroid watch faces. The Androidify app, revived last fall with Gemini-powered avatars, now supports Wear OS after an earlier preview. Users can upload a photo and have the generative AI produce personalized bugdroid avatars for their smartwatch faces. The update ties into Google's ongoing AI tooling while giving a playful angle to wearables. Google also published a behind-the-scenes deep dive into the app's development. If you're into fun customization, this makes it easy to personalize your Wear OS watch face with Androidify bots powered by generative AI. Time to generate new looks for your smartwatch.
Pickle Robot appoints Tesla veteran Jeff Evanson as first CFO amid UPS deal
December 18, 2025, 3:44 PM EST. Pickle Robot, a Charlestown, Massachusetts-based maker of autonomous unloading robots for warehouses, has named Jeff Evanson as its first CFO. Evanson, who had been consulting since September, previously served as VP of global investor relations and strategy at Tesla (2011-2017), working with Elon Musk to raise debt and equity for the company's vehicle launches and acquisitions. The hire comes as Pickle, founded in 2018 with roughly $100 million in venture capital, expands a growing UPS partnership. Bloomberg reports that UPS will invest $120 million to buy about 400 Pickle robots, with deployment slated for late 2026 into 2027. Pickle declined to comment on the UPS deal, but confirmed UPS has been a customer for several years.
Rivian Digital Key Rolls Out: Car Access via Wallet on iPhone, Apple Watch, and Android
December 18, 2025, 3:36 PM EST. Rivian launches Rivian Digital Key, letting Gen 2 keys be added to Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet, enabling passive entry and automatic locking as you approach or walk away. It supports Apple Watch for hands-free access, so you can drive with your device in your pocket. Up to 8 digital keys per vehicle can be shared via text with family and friends. Built on the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) standard, it uses Ultra-Wideband (UWB) and Near-Field Communication (NFC) for secure, precise access and future compatibility with R2 and R3 models. This update enhances convenience and security across ecosystems.
GM reportedly eyeing ex-Tesla executive for next CEO
December 18, 2025, 3:30 PM EST. General Motors is reportedly considering an ex-Tesla executive as its next CEO, a move that could reshape the automaker's EV strategy and leadership outlook. The talks are preliminary and no appointment has been made, but the potential hire would bring experience from Tesla's electric-vehicle focus to GM's broader portfolio. Industry watchers will note how such a change could influence GM's roadmap, partnerships, and competitiveness in the evolving automotive landscape. Investors may react to the prospect of a leadership shift with a background in high-growth EV dynamics.
House passes SPEED Act to expedite AI infrastructure permits
December 18, 2025, 3:28 PM EST. The House approved the SPEED Act to streamline federal permits for AI infrastructure projects. The bill, backed by OpenAI, Micron and Microsoft, would reform the 1969 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), tighten review timelines and shrink the litigation window to 150 days. Passed 221-196, it now heads to the Senate as part of a broader permitting-reform push. Proponents argue faster permitting is essential to keep pace with global competitors and power AI computing for civilian and military uses, while addressing growing strain on the electric grid from data centers. Critics warn of reduced environmental scrutiny as bipartisan support grows around tech-driven infrastructure.
Cathie Wood Trims Tesla Stake as TSLA Valuation Soars
December 18, 2025, 3:20 PM EST. Cathie Wood's Ark Invest has been trimming its Tesla (TSLA) exposure even as the stock trades near $475. After a period of stubborn conviction, Ark stepped in to buy the post-earnings dip but has since reduced positions, signaling a potential shift in conviction. Tesla's Q3 results showed EPS of $0.37 (miss vs $0.41) with revenue of $28.1B, while margins cooled as spending on robotaxis and the Optimus program rose. Yet the company posted a record free cash flow of about $4B, and a Samsung SDI battery deal worth roughly $2.1B over three years aims to ease energy-storage constraints. The valuation remains rich, complicating the bulls' case even as underlying demand persists. Investors should watch whether Ark's moves foreshadow a broader rethink of TSLA's story.
Blue Origin's NS-37 Suborbital Flight Scrubbed; Wheelchair User Michaela Benthaus Poised for Space Milestone
December 18, 2025, 3:18 PM EST. Blue Origin's NS-37 suborbital flight from West Texas was scrubbed at the last minute due to upper-level winds. The mission would have carried Michaela 'Michi' Benthaus, an aerospace engineer who uses a wheelchair, marking a potential first for a spaceflight by a wheelchair user. The six-crew lineup included Benthaus along with Joey Hyde, Hans Koenigsmann, Neal Milch, Adonis Pouroulis and Jason Stansell aboard the New Shepard vehicle. The flight would have been Blue Origin's 37th New Shepard mission and the 16th to carry humans above the 62-mile boundary. The company, owned by Jeff Bezos, has not announced a new launch window yet.
YouTube Premium Offers 40% Pixel 10 Discount via Google Store (Limited Time)
December 18, 2025, 3:14 PM EST. YouTube Premium is reportedly emailing subscribers a 40% discount code for the Pixel 10 series on the Google Store, valid through December 31, 2025. The promo would slash the Pixel 10 Pro XL from $1,199 to about $770 after the discount (taxes may apply). Separately, Google Play Points members can get an extra $200 off the Pixel 10 Pro, effectively dropping it to $549 on the Google Play Store. The offers appear to be limited and targeted to active Premium subscribers, with not all accounts seeing the emails yet. This holiday push mirrors other Pixel promotions and rewards quick action. If you're eligible, check your account for the unique code and complete checkout before the expiry dates.
SpaceX Starlink Anomaly: Satellite Tumbling and Deorbit Risk After In-Orbit Breakup
December 18, 2025, 3:12 PM EST. SpaceX says one Starlink satellite (ID 35956) suffered an orbital anomaly on Dec. 17 at about 418 km, losing comms and venting its propulsion tank. The event caused a rapid decay in semi-major axis of roughly 4 km and released a small amount of trackable debris. The satellite remains largely intact, tumbling, and is expected to reenter Earth's atmosphere within weeks, with its current path placing it below the ISS and posing no risk to crew or lab. SpaceX is coordinating with NASA and the U.S. Space Force to monitor debris and mitigate risks, including deploying a software upgrade to improve fault protections. Starlink now numbers about 9,300 active satellites, part of the largest megaconstellation, with ~5-year design lifetimes and deliberate deorbit guidance.
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