Google and OpenAI Chatbots Used to Create Bikini Deepfakes, Highlighting Guardrails and Consent Gaps
December 24, 2025, 7:44 AM EST. Recent reports show users prompting Google's Gemini and OpenAI's ChatGPT to transform full-clothed images into bikini-clad versions, often without consent. A now-deleted Reddit thread demonstrated tips to bypass guardrails, prompting concerns over nonconsensual intimate media, deepfakes, and the effectiveness of safety policies. Platforms like Reddit removed the posts, citing site rules, while major AI tools consistently emphasize content policies that prohibit sexually explicit outputs. Despite guardrails, testers and hobbyists have found loopholes: through simple prompts, experiments reportedly turned images of fully dressed women into bikini deepfakes. Google and OpenAI have publicly asserted their policies against generating sexually explicit content and continue to refine their models, though some models (e.g., Google's Nano Banana Pro) push improvements in image manipulation. The episode underscores ongoing challenges around privacy, consent, and misuse of AI in media.
3D-Printed 1:1 iPhone Fold Mockup Based on Rumors
December 24, 2025, 7:40 AM EST. On MakerWorld, user Subsy posted a 1:1 iPhone Fold replica that can be 3D printed to gauge its size. The model is said to be based on leaked CAD drawings, though actual CAD leaks are absent; a May concept drawing by iZac inspired the design. The model notes a closed display around 5.5 inches and about 7.76 inches when open, aligning with rumors but lacking exact measurements. Printing this model yields a near-sized dummy useful for comparing with existing iPhone devices. Real CAD renders and dummies are expected to surface in early 2026. Apple hasn't confirmed the foldable device, and camera/hinge details are likely different from what the mockups show.
DJI Osmo FrameTap Surfaces in FCC Filing as Wireless Remote for Osmo Pocket
December 24, 2025, 7:30 AM EST. An FCC listing reveals a mysterious DJI accessory called the Osmo FrameTap, described as a wireless remote control for the Osmo Pocket line. The filing notes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, a compact 625 mAh battery, and hints that FrameTap could help with image framing without touching the Osmo Pocket 4 or Osmo Pocket 4 Pro. No photos were released, and launch timing remains unclear, but the accessory appears designed to streamline camera workflows and framing for the next-gen pocket cameras.
Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1.1 rolls out to fix app-launch crashes on Pixel devices
December 24, 2025, 7:28 AM EST. Google releases Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1.1 to address a startup-crash bug affecting several apps on the beta channel. The OTA (CP11.251114.007 for most devices; CP11.251114.004.A2 for Pixel 7a) is available to Pixel 6 through Pixel 10/10 Pro Fold, with a small download size (about 59.46MB on Pixel 10 Pro XL). Early reports show improvements for banking apps, though Microsoft Teams, Outlook, and Edge may still crash on launch. Users attempting to exit the Beta Program are warned about potential data corruption, so skipping Beta 1.1 or awaiting Beta 2 is advised.
SEC Files Charges Over $14 Million Crypto Scam With Fake AI Investment Tips
December 24, 2025, 7:26 AM EST. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has charged multiple entities in a $14+ million cryptocurrency scam that used fake AI-generated investment tips to lure retail investors. The SEC accuses platforms Morocoin Tech Corp., Berge Blockchain Technology Co., Ltd., and Cirkor Inc., along with investment clubs AI Wealth Inc., Lane Wealth Inc., AI Investment Education Foundation (AIIEF) Ltd., and Zenith Asset Tech Foundation, of orchestrating the scheme. Scammers recruited victims via social-media ads and WhatsApp groups, posing as financial professionals who provided AI-based 'signals'. Investors were directed to fake crypto trading platforms and purported Security Token Offerings (STOs) that never traded or issued real assets. An unnamed Beijing-based individual funded registrations. The operation operated across 2023-2025, leveraging brand pages and WhatsApp personas to build trust.
Starlink and Chinese Satellite Nearly Collide; Sparks Urgency for Space Traffic Management
December 24, 2025, 7:08 AM EST. Two satellites-one Starlink and one Chinese-nearly collided at about 650 feet in low Earth orbit (LEO), illustrating how crowded space is becoming. With more than 24,000 tracked objects and projections of up to 70,000 satellites by 2030, close passes are increasingly common. Some research suggests satellites pass within 0.62 miles of each other every 22 seconds. A collision could trigger a cascade of debris, the feared Kessler syndrome, filling LEO with shards traveling at high speed. Collision avoidance relies on up-to-date tracking of all objects, fast communication, and autonomous maneuvering. The episode underscores the urgency of enhanced space situational awareness, safer satellite design, and cooperative policy to manage orbital crowds and debris.
AI Weekly: Oracle's slide, Nvidia's China push, SoftBank & OpenAI bets
December 24, 2025, 7:06 AM EST. AI Weekly highlights: Oracle shares slide after a key funding partner balks at a $10B Michigan data center, amid rising debt as it bets on AI infrastructure; Nvidia plans to ship its second-most powerful AI chips to China by mid-February and expand production, with U.S. approvals and Beijing licensing still in play. SoftBank is racing to close a $22.5B OpenAI funding commitment, after selling its Nvidia stake; it also struck a $300B OpenAI investment deal this year. In other moves, Happy Returns AI flags fraudulent holiday returns, helping retailers cut losses. On the policy/frontier, about 25,000 people are exploring the Trump administration's 'Tech Force' to fill 1,000 AI-focused federal roles over two years.
FCC Allows Import of DJI Air 3S Under Existing Authorizations While New Models Face Restrictions
December 24, 2025, 6:52 AM EST. The FCC's Public Notice confirms that while it has placed drones on a Covered List and prohibits new equipment authorizations, it does not revoke existing approvals or bar models that were already authorized. A companion Fact Sheet clarifies that retailers can continue to sell, import, or market models approved earlier this year (e.g., DJI Air 3S, Mini 4 Pro, Matrice 4T). In practice, this means DJI can keep manufacturing and importing those models. The practical snag is batteries and battery management systems, which are also on the Covered List. Customs and Border Protection may enforce restrictions on replacement batteries, potentially causing shipments to stall even for grandfathered devices. Overall: the policy preserves existing stock while creating new border-enforcement challenges for future models.
2025 Will Be Remembered for What Apple Didn't Deliver
December 24, 2025, 6:50 AM EST. 2025 will be remembered as the year Apple confessed it couldn't deliver on its big AI promises. After touting Apple Intelligence at WWDC 2024, the company admitted in 2025 that many promised features wouldn't ship on time, and Siri upgrades would slip into the coming year. The piece argues Apple's AI rollout looked more like style than substance, a response to pressure to prove AI leadership. The admission of not meeting its own quality bar marks one of the clearest admissions of limitation in over a decade. Even as Apple released other products, the narrative shifted from breakthrough AI to a cautionary tale about promises vs. delivery for the tech giant.
Ford, Hyundai and Tesla Lead the 2025 Best-Selling EV SUVs; Chevy Equinox EV Tops Non-Tesla Sales
December 24, 2025, 6:36 AM EST. Electric SUVs dominated the 2025 market, with Chevrolet's Equinox EV leading non-Tesla sales and helping the category top 1 million EVs sold in the U.S. that year. Ford's Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai's Ioniq 5 also posted strong results, underscoring depth in the segment. The Equinox EV posted about 52,834 units, making it the most popular non-Tesla EV and a standout value with range and features. The Mach-E (~41,962 units) and Ioniq 5 (41,091 units) show that stylish design and practicality remain key buying criteria. Tesla remains a major player, but still faces competition in some SUV and EV segments. Overall, pricing, range, and new models are accelerating electric SUV sales in 2025.
Intumescent Sealants for EV Battery Fire Barriers Market: Global Outlook 2026-2036
December 24, 2025, 6:34 AM EST. The market for intumescent sealants used in EV battery fire barriers is valued at USD 227 million (2026) and projected to reach USD 805.3 million by 2036, a CAGR of 13.5%. Growth is driven by rigorous certification, abuse testing, and validated safety architectures that sustain pricing power for leading suppliers. Early design participation and extensive test data help incumbents defend margins, while costs tied to fire testing and liability reinforce premium positioning. High entry barriers persist due to certification timelines and OEM requalification needs; fragmentation remains as battery designs vary. Niche specialists thrive, and high-volume platforms see consolidation. Regions: Asia Pacific, Europe, North America; top players: Sika AG, Pyrophobic Systems Ltd., Elkem ASA, H.B. Fuller Company, Dürr AG. From 2026-2031, the market grows from USD 227 million to USD 373 million as passive fire protection becomes more embedded in packs.
AI-powered toys spark safety and privacy concerns as chatty bots hit the holidays
December 24, 2025, 6:30 AM EST. AI-powered toys that speak and respond are entering homes, thanks to chatbots and large language models. From talking teddy bears to motorized chess sets and holographic fairies, these devices promise interactive learning but raise safety and privacy concerns. U.S. PIRG Education Fund researchers tested several toys and found issues, including one AI teddy bear that could be prompted to discuss inappropriate topics. Manufacturers like Mattel have teamed with OpenAI to develop AI-powered toys, a plan that has been delayed to 2026. Prices are higher than traditional toys, with connected devices often costing $100 or more. Proponents say AI can enhance play and education, while critics want stronger guardrails and more testing before widespread adoption.
Ronald Deibert and the Citizen Lab: Exposing Surveillance in the Digital Age
December 24, 2025, 6:20 AM EST. Ronald Deibert, founder of the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto, travels light to dodge surveillance, yet relentlessly investigates digital abuses in the public interest. His team has exposed surveillance, state cyberoperations, and privacy violations that threaten civil liberties worldwide. The lab operates independently from governments and corporations, funded by grants and philanthropy, and acts as a counterweight to overreaching powers. As he notes, the pillars of democracy are under assault-and the United States, once a standard, now faces challenges to constitutional norms. From documenting campus drone activity at Columbia to tracing global spyware networks, Deibert argues for cyber security as a public good, rooted in watchdog reporting, cross-border collaboration, and a skeptical eye toward state power and corporate influence.
Nvidia Stock Soars in 2025, but Micron Could Be the Next AI Semiconductor Stock to Buy in 2026
December 24, 2025, 5:46 AM EST. Nvidia's stock has surged on the AI hardware boom, but Micron Technology is another AI semiconductor name drawing attention. Micron is up about 229% in 2025, outpacing Nvidia's gains, and Wall Street analysts overwhelmingly rate it a buy for 2026. The company's HBM3E data-center solution offers ~50% more capacity and ~30% less energy, with a ramp to HBM4E that could deliver up to ~60% more capacity and further efficiency. Micron says its 2026 supply is already sold out, highlighting strong AI-driven demand for memory in data centers, PCs, and smartphones. CEO Sanjay Mehrotra expects the HBM market to nearly triple to $100 billion by 2028, a backdrop supportive of Micron's expanding role in AI-era infrastructure.
Huawei Mate 80 GTS rumored to bring cooling fan upgrade and high-end specs
December 24, 2025, 5:36 AM EST. Rumors suggest the Mate 80 GTS is in the works to finally bring a cooling fan upgrade, ending fans' absence on flagship lines like the Mate 80 Pro Max and RS Ultimate. A Weibo tipster says Huawei is prepping a micro cooling fan that fits compactly and could boost the Kirin chip's performance. The edition is tipped to include 20GB RAM, a 16:10 panel, and advanced features, with a possible March debut alongside the Pura X2 foldable. Take these leaks with caution until official confirmation.
Porsche's AI-Free Christmas Ad Sparks Debate About Advertising and AI
December 24, 2025, 5:32 AM EST. The 2025 Porsche Christmas ad is being hailed for possibly being AI-free, prompting a broader debate about how brands use artificial intelligence in ads. The spot blends hand-drawn and CGI 2D animation to evoke classic car culture, and Porsche/Parallel Studio haven't clearly confirmed AI usage. Critics and fans alike celebrate an AI-free approach amid comparisons to the polarizing McDonald's AI spot and recent Taco Bell work. Coverage from Gizmodo and the advertising blog 80 Level has amplified the conversation about whether brands should promote AI-free campaigns next season. While uncertainty remains about whether AI was involved, the piece argues that fewer AI-duds would be welcome, making the Porsche ad's potential stance an interesting anti-AI statement for the industry.
DJI Osmo Action 6 firmware unlocks 8K30, cloud uploads and new features (01.02.05.21)
December 24, 2025, 5:18 AM EST. DJI's Osmo Action 6 gets a major firmware update (01.02.05.21) unlocking 8K30 video and a slew of refinements. The update brings 8K capture at up to 30 fps, closing the gap with rivals like Insta360 Ace Pro 2. It also adds an Upload feature to cloud destinations (Baidu Netdisk, Quark Netdisk, OneDrive, Google Drive) and NAS, plus Focus Peaking when a macro lens is attached. New film-style tone presets in Photo mode, QS button customization (Screen Off/Zoom), and Custom mode support for macro or FOV Boost lenses. Other enhancements include Gesture control for webcam/live streaming, improved grid overlay, better Image Quality Priority, and various bug fixes. These updates push the Action 6 higher on our Best Action Cameras of 2025 list.
DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Pro rumored for spring launch with dual cameras; standard Osmo Pocket 4 tipped for January
December 24, 2025, 5:16 AM EST. New chatter surrounds DJI's Osmo Pocket 4 lineup. The standard model is tipped for a January launch, while the Osmo Pocket 4 Pro-boosted by a second camera lens-is said to target a spring release. A YouTuber claims official confirmation places the Pro after April, signaling a late-spring window.
Duquesne Light studies AI to improve grid reliability
December 24, 2025, 5:14 AM EST. Duquesne Light is researching how artificial intelligence can optimize its electric grid to boost reliability, resilience, and efficiency. The utility's efforts focus on applying AI and machine learning to monitor grid health, predict outages, optimize asset maintenance, and enhance demand response. By analyzing real-time sensor data and weather patterns, the program aims to reduce outages, speed restoration, and lower operating costs while supporting safer, more reliable energy delivery. The initiative reflects a broader push by utilities to deploy digital twins, predictive analytics, and automated controls to modernize the grid.
Samsung SDI and KG Mobility Sign MoU for 46-Series EV Battery Packs
December 24, 2025, 4:58 AM EST. Samsung SDI and KG Mobility have signed a memorandum of understanding to co-develop advanced EV battery pack technologies built around Samsung SDI's 46-series cylindrical cells. The collaboration aims to deliver next-generation battery packs for KG Mobility's upcoming electric models and to extend joint R&D on market trends and future pack architectures. Samsung SDI describes the 46-series as a high-energy-density solution designed for longer ranges and fast charging, featuring NCA cathodes with Silicon Carbon Nanocomposite anodes, a tabless design to reduce resistance, and strengthened thermal management to boost safety and reliability. The two companies also plan to share perspectives on the global battery market and pursue long-term development projects. Separately, reports suggest Samsung SDI is in talks to supply energy storage systems to Tesla.
Samsung SDI and KG Mobility ink strategic EV battery pack partnership
December 24, 2025, 4:28 AM EST. Samsung SDI and KG Mobility have sealed a strategic partnership to co-develop next-generation EV battery packs built around Samsung SDI's 46-series cylindrical cells. They signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on December 22 in Seoul, outlining joint R&D, testing, and eventual commercialization for future KG Mobility EVs. The 46-series cells deliver high energy density, enabling longer range and faster charging, with improved safety thanks to advanced NCA cathode chemistry and Silicon Carbon Nanocomposite (SCN) anodes. Beyond cell choice, the deal paves the way for a deeper alliance: sharing market insights, coordinating electrification strategies, and expanding into integrated pack solutions. For KG Mobility, the partnership accelerates EV battery engineering; for Samsung SDI, it expands from cell supply to broader pack development, signaling a stronger Korean EV supply chain.
DJI Osmo Action 6 gains 8K video and cloud uploads via firmware update
December 24, 2025, 4:24 AM EST. DJI's Osmo Action 6 just got a major upgrade with a firmware update that unlocks 8K video and adds a new Upload feature for direct cloud transfers to Google Drive and OneDrive. The update, v01.02.05.21, also brings film-style tone presets in Photo mode and QS button customization (assigning Screen Off or Zoom). Fans using macro or FOV Boost lenses gain Custom mode aspect ratio support and Focus Peaking. Gesture control now works for webcam and live-streaming. There's a refinement in Image Quality Priority mode and several bug fixes plus grid-overlay tweaks. In the broader scene, 8K remains niche, with rival 8K options from some 360 cameras, but DJI continues to push what creators can shoot, share, and reframe.
Samsung Exynos 2600 brings UFS 4.1, APV, and Heat Path Block for Galaxy S26
December 24, 2025, 4:18 AM EST. Samsung's new Exynos 2600, built on a 2nm GAA process, is a deca-core chip clocked up to 3.8 GHz. It pairs a Xclipse 960 GPU powered by AMD with APV for higher detail, and introduces HPB to curb overheating. Samsung also unveiled the Heat Path Block packaging, aimed at reducing thermal throttling. The chip adds UFS 4.1 support, signaling faster storage after Qualcomm's Gen 5. The Galaxy S26 series will likely mix Exynos and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 across models, with about 25-30% of S26/S26 Plus using Exynos and the S26 Ultra via Snapdragon. Launch is targeted for late February or early March.
Italy's antitrust watchdog orders Meta to halt WhatsApp terms blocking rival AI chatbots
December 24, 2025, 4:14 AM EST. Italy's antitrust authority AGCM has ordered Meta to suspend terms in WhatsApp that could bar rival AI chatbots, as it investigates potential abuse of a dominant position. Meta calls the decision flawed and will appeal. The regulator says the contractual conditions could restrict output, market access, or technical development in the AI chatbot market and exclude competitors from WhatsApp. The probe-opened in July and widened in November-forms part of a broader EU push against Big Tech, with coordination with the European Commission. Regulators say the move could harm consumers and fair competition.
Druckenmiller Exits Nvidia and Palantir, Bets Big on Hottest Drug Stock Ahead of 2026
December 24, 2025, 4:10 AM EST. Billionaire Druckenmiller's Duquesne Family Office sold Nvidia and Palantir after years linked to the AI rally and has piled into one of Wall Street's hottest drug stock for five straight quarters ahead of 2026. The move appears in early 13F disclosures that reveal where the biggest funds stood. While Nvidia and Palantir thrived on AI demand-Nvidia's GPUs and Palantir's Gotham/Foundry platforms-Druckenmiller's shift marks a pivot toward biopharma momentum. Since the start of 2024, the drug stock has surged roughly 191%, underscoring the ongoing debate about when AI-driven gains give way to other growth engines in portfolios.
TCL Note A1 NXTPAPER: An 11.5-Inch E-Note That Blends Color LCD With a Paper-Like Finish
December 24, 2025, 3:54 AM EST. TCL's Note A1 NXTPAPER is an 11.5-inch eNote tablet designed to merge reading comfort with productivity. It blends a full-color LCD on a paper-like surface, backed by 3A Crystal Shield Glass for anti-glare, anti-reflection, and eye-friendly TÜV Rheinland certification. The device centers on handwriting, featuring a stylus with dual tips, an eraser, and haptic feedback to mimic pen-on-paper. It adds AI-assisted tools: audio-to-text transcription, real-time translation, and summaries, plus writing helpers for rewriting and grammar. An infinite canvas and split-screen mode support simultaneous reading and note-taking, while Wi-Fi/cloud syncing (Dropbox/Drive/OneDrive) and wireless casting aid collaboration. At about 500 g and 5.5 mm thick, it targets heavy readers and writers seeking a paper-leaning, capable slate.
Nvidia Stock Faces a Bullish Inflection: Why $275 Could Be On the Table in 2026
December 24, 2025, 3:42 AM EST. NVIDIA's rise from a gaming-chip maker to the backbone of AI, data centers, and autonomous tech has reshaped the market. As demand for GPUs, CUDA, and data-centered workloads grows, analysts see 2026 as an inflection year. Despite a recent pullback, Nvidia's dominant position and expanding AI and cloud demand create a pathway to a bullish price target around $275. The story hinges on sustained chip-price discipline, China access, and the pace of AI infrastructure spending, with the stock trading on growth potential, not just momentum. Investors weigh near-term skepticism against a multi-year runway for GPU-driven AI applications and a governance-led push toward a new era of computing.
iPhone 17e: Early-2026 launch with A19, targeting Apple's cheapest iPhone in years
December 24, 2025, 3:40 AM EST. Rumors point to an iPhone 17e launching in the first half of 2026, continuing Apple's budget-focused line. It's expected to be another budget-friendly model at about $599, potentially the only lower-cost iPhone Apple releases in 2026. The device is said to use the A19 chipset from the standard iPhone 17, enabling flagship-level performance at a lower price. Early benchmarks show the iPhone 17e delivering strong Geekbench results compared with some Android rivals like the OnePlus 15. The release plan might involve a staggered schedule with iPhone 18 Pro in fall and regular iPhone 18 in spring 2027. While midrange devices aren't known for big tricks, the A19 upgrade could make the 17e a bigger deal than expected.
Quantum Christmas Advantage: How Quantum Computing Could Optimize Holiday Logistics, Gaming, and Retail
December 24, 2025, 3:38 AM EST. Quantum technologies are moving from metaphor to practical tools that could improve holiday logistics, gaming, retail, and personalization. Hybrid quantum-classical optimization is being explored to improve supply-chain routing, inventory management, game design, and retail operations by evaluating complex choices faster and at greater scale than classical methods alone. While broad quantum advantage remains years away, early deployments in optimization and analytics suggest quantum tools could incrementally reshape how goods are delivered, games are built, and shopping experiences are managed during peak seasons. Companies like Quantum Research Sciences are applying quantum optimization to real-world logistics, pairing AI warning models with quantum engines to juggle supply, cost, and lead time faster than traditional methods. The promise lies in scanning multiple route configurations simultaneously for more resilient, efficient holiday networks.
TikTok divestiture could unlock North American smartphone competition in 2026
December 24, 2025, 3:28 AM EST. US smartphone history remains dominated by Apple and Samsung, with little brand variety for consumers. A potential TikTok divestiture, driven by U.S. policy and precedent, could unlock space for more players and set a template for North America. Even though TikTok is an app, regulators' actions could nudge Chinese brands such as OnePlus, Oppo, Vivo, Xiaomi, and Honor to expand presence with local operations. If more US-based entities emerge, we could see increased competition, better pricing, and longer software support across the region. Realistically, change won't happen overnight, but the 2026 outlook could be brighter for consumers as regulatory moves and market dynamics loosen the grip of the two incumbents.
AI at the Crossroads: The Real Potential of LLM-Based Machine Learning
December 24, 2025, 3:26 AM EST. At the intersection of the future, two or three things are unfolding in real time. The author highlights a genuine critical mass in LLM-based machine learning, which they prefer to call machine learning rather than the broad, sometimes overblown term AI. This field has produced tangible capabilities that are already transformative across work and tech. The author remains skeptical about what lies beyond this core development, acknowledging uncertainty about how far it will go, even as it expects growth. The piece emphasizes that, for now, the most reliable way to understand today's tech is to focus on LLM-based ML and its evolving capabilities, while watching for how broader narratives around AI unfold.
CFOs Predict AI Transformation in Finance for 2026
December 24, 2025, 3:22 AM EST. CFOs across major firms say 2026 will mark AI moving from pilots to enterprise-wide impact. The consensus: AI will reinvent finance as a proactive, strategic driver, not just a cost-saver. Success hinges on trusted data, governance, modern architectures, and strong human judgment. Leaders predict AI-enabled automation of close, forecasting, and analysis, real-time insights, and better decision quality, with CFOs evolving from gatekeepers to transformational architects. The shift balances pilot programs with scalable deployments, prioritizing data governance and a durable AI portfolio. Executives from ServiceNow, HPE, and Workday emphasize measurable ROI, risk management, and the need to redesign decision processes to leverage AI at scale, embedding AI into planning, capital allocation, customer service, and risk management. In 2026, AI is a catalyst for proactive finance leadership.
Tesla Slips in Europe as BYD's 222% Surge Reshapes the EV Market
December 24, 2025, 2:52 AM EST. Tesla's share of Europe's EV market fell 11.8% YoY to 22,801 cars in November, while BYD deliveries jumped 221.8% to 21,133. Tesla's regional market share slipped from 2.5% to 2.1%, even as BYD's stake rose from 0.6% to ~2%. Analysts link the decline to rising competition, a sparse hybrid lineup, and political headwinds around Elon Musk. BYD's mix of affordable electric and hybrid models is attracting cost-conscious buyers amid a shaky economy. Despite a slowdown in Tesla's overall sales, sentiment remains cautious: a Hold consensus and price targets imply further downside from current levels.
AI CEOs say automation with AI is harder than it looks
December 24, 2025, 2:50 AM EST. Top executives in tech and business argue that automating processes with AI is more complex than desired. The lesson from recent trials is that real-world automation requires more than flashy models: it demands reliable data, governance, and cross-functional buy-in. AI CEOs say successful adoption hinges on clear problem framing, measurable ROI, robust risk management, and scalable infrastructure. Challenges include data quality, integration with legacy systems, software/vendor lock-in, and ensuring explainability and security. While early pilots show promise in routine tasks, widespread value creation depends on iterative piloting, change management, and skilled talent. The takeaway: a thoughtful strategy that aligns technology with business goals is essential for durable impact of AI-driven automation.
Josh Ross's 2025 Gear: Pixel Watch 4, Velo Videos, Strava, and WorldTour Bike Adventures
December 24, 2025, 2:30 AM EST. Reflecting on 2025, Josh Ross's gear story is a blend of sharper video work, smarter wearables, and pedal-powered exploration. At Velo, his videos are faster and more polished, and formats like the Strava-centered piece helped connect with viewers. On wearables, he touts the Pixel Watch 4 for improved battery life, while chasing a single, cohesive data stream that merges watch metrics with his bike-computer numbers. In cycling hardware, a 600km weekend ride aboard a Colnago Y1RS keeps the dream alive, even as he eyes a true 500km challenge. He's still chasing great camera setup and storytelling, while inviting reader comments and ideas to shape future videos.
Top Links 960: The Smartphone Shock, the Chinese Factory, and Platform Winners
December 24, 2025, 2:02 AM EST. A curated roundup from Chartbook Newsletter by Adam Tooze, spotlighting the smartphone shock, the Chinese Christmas factory dynamics, the CFR v. TFR debate, and a fever-dream of risk in a world dominated by platform businesses and the smartphone revolution.
Shocking AI Effect: Hiring Freezes Hit Tech and Finance Firms
December 24, 2025, 1:50 AM EST. Several top tech and finance firms in the US are not expanding headcount and are choosing not to replace employees who depart, signaling a broader hiring freeze. Executives point to accelerating AI adoption as the driver, as automation handles routine tasks and reduces the need for growth in staff. The trend is not tied to US policies or visa rules, but to a strategic shift toward cost efficiency and operational changes. For job seekers, including citizens and green card holders, the message is caution: securing a new role may take longer than expected. Even firms still hiring could hit saturation as AI takes over more duties by 2026. To mitigate risk, many companies are restricting public AI tools at work and building private AI systems to protect data and reduce reliance on human effort, potentially foreshadowing broader cuts later.
Samsung One UI 8.5 Beta adds Pro camera controls with Minimum shutter speed and Maximum ISO
December 24, 2025, 1:48 AM EST. Samsung's One UI 8.5 Beta 2 introduces an updated Camera Assistant with new Pro mode controls. The Advanced Pro options add Minimum shutter speed and Maximum ISO, alongside existing White balance and Exposure value controls. The update also enables Dual Recording and Single Take toggles for more flexible shooting. The ZYLH update is rolling out in six countries, with the official version expected around May 2026. A stable One UI 8.5 release is planned to accompany the Galaxy S26 series in Q1 2026, with rollout to existing devices continuing afterward. Availability currently centers on devices running One UI 8.5, with initial access on the Galaxy S25 family.
ABRP: The Free EV Route Planner for Apple CarPlay That Outshines Apple Maps
December 24, 2025, 1:34 AM EST. EV roadtrippers now have a powerful, free alternative to Apple Maps. A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) adds real-time EV-specific routing, showing charging stops, outlet types, stall availability, prices, and nearby amenities like restaurants and restrooms. Available on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ABRP lets you customize routes to your vehicle and battery, making long trips more predictable with charging times ranging from 20 minutes to hours. While Apple Maps covers general navigation, ABRP excels at EV-aware planning, letting you input your model and destination to generate a complete itinerary with optimized charging stops. In short, ABRP is a valuable Maps alternative for EV drivers seeking a smoother, more efficient road trip.
Soyuz to Launch First Obzor Radar Satellite (Obzor-R No. 1)
December 24, 2025, 1:32 AM EST. Russia is set to launch the long-delayed Obzor-R all-weather radar satellite aboard a Soyuz rocket from the military site at Plesetsk on 2025 Dec. 24. The first Obzor-R mission, developed by RKTs Progress under the civilian-military program, follows a decade-long planning in Russia's FKP-2025 space plan. Weighing about 4,000 kilograms, the satellite targets a sun-synchronous orbit around 654 kilometers with an inclination of roughly 97.97 degrees for day-and-night imaging. The program faced repeated delays with instruments such as Kasatka-R, but launch readiness has advanced toward a 5-year operational life. The broader mix of assets includes Kondor-FKA, Meteor, and potentially Pion-NKS/Neitron satellites. A December launch window was announced with backups through mid-December.
Ikea trims prices on Matter-compatible smart home devices
December 24, 2025, 1:14 AM EST. Ikea has cut prices on a selection of its Matter-compatible smart home devices, making it cheaper for households to adopt a cross-brand ecosystem. The price cuts come as the Matter standard gains traction, with Ikea highlighting continued focus on affordability and compatibility across platforms. The move could accelerate adoption of Matter-enabled gear and reinforce Ikea's position in the budget-friendly side of the smart home market. By lowering entry costs for connected lights, sensors, and hubs, Ikea aims to simplify setup and interoperability for users who want reliable control across brands.
China conducts second reusable-rocket test in three weeks as Long March 12A reaches orbit
December 24, 2025, 1:00 AM EST. China conducted its second reusable-rocket flight in three weeks, with the Long March 12A lifting off from Jiuquan and the upper stage reaching a predetermined orbit. The methane-fueled first stage did not complete a braking burn for a recovered landing near the Gobi Desert. Yet the mission yielded critical engineering data under real-flight conditions, and CASC said it will analyze the flight to optimize the recovery plan and advance reusable-technology verification. The result mirrors LandSpace's Zhuque-3: orbit achieved, but its booster crashed downrange. Both efforts underline China's push in space-tech and rocket reuse as part of its broader aerospace program.
Tech Groups Shift $120B of AI Data Center Debt Off Balance Sheets
December 24, 2025, 12:58 AM EST. Tech groups are moving vast liabilities tied to AIdata centers off their books, a strategy that may improve reported leverage while raising questions about risk, transparency, and capital allocation. The move involves off-balance-sheet financing, securitization, and other debt-management tactics, reshaping how investors gauge exposure to AI infrastructure. While lenders may gain access to flexible funding, stakeholders should scrutinize long-term costs, covenants, and the potential for hidden liabilities. The shift underscores the growing scale of AI infrastructure and the financial engineering that surrounds it, with implications for regulators, lenders, and technology companies pursuing rapid AI deployment.
iPad Pro vs iPad Air: 3 Key Differences You Might Not Know
December 24, 2025, 12:42 AM EST. Apple's iPad lineup splits into the iPad Air and iPad Pro, with the Pro positioned for professionals and power users. The Air uses the M3 chip, while the Pro sports the newer M5. Display differences go beyond size: the Air relies on an IPS LCD with a 60Hz refresh rate, whereas the Pro delivers a ProMotion 120Hz experience and brighter performance. The Pro also uses Tandem OLED panels for enhanced brightness and color accuracy, with an Ultra Retina XDR label and up to 1600 nits of HDR peak brightness. Both come in 11-inch and 13-inch options, but the price gap remains: $599 for Air vs $999 for Pro. Bottom line: the Pro offers higher raw performance and a more advanced display; the Air offers a balanced, more affordable option.
ISRO's LVM3-M6 Launch Carries AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird Block-2, Heaviest LEO Satellite
December 24, 2025, 12:30 AM EST. ISRO successfully launched LVM3-M6 carrying AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird Block-2, the heaviest payload to orbit in ISRO's LVM3 history. Weighing 6,100 kg, the satellite aims to deliver direct-to-mobile cellular broadband from low Earth orbit, enabling 4G/5G voice, video, texts, and data globally. The mission was conducted under a commercial agreement with NSIL and follows AST's prior BlueBird satellites to expand a global space-based cellular network. The 43.5-meter LVM3 uses two S200 boosters and a cryogenic third stage to place the satellite into around 600 km LEO. AST SpaceMobile plans more launches with partners across the globe to extend mobile connectivity coverage.
UK regroups on AI bill as public calls for independent oversight
December 24, 2025, 12:16 AM EST.UK government shifts away from a single, comprehensive AI bill, choosing to regulate in targeted chunks. Nudification apps will be banned under a new Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy, AI chatbots are reviewed via the Online Safety Act, and there will be legislation for AI Growth Labs to let firms test products pre-market. In Parliament, ministers say they'll act where needed rather than pass a big bill. The team handling frontier AI regulation has reportedly been reassigned. Polling by the Ada Lovelace Institute shows mass appetite for an independent AI regulator with enforcement powers, and a focus on fairness, safety, and social impact. Some studies warn that framing AI as geopolitical competition doesn't resonate with voters, complicating calls from Tony Blair for leadership, a challenge for Keir Starmer.
LG Display teases Tandem OLED/WOLED refresh ahead of CES 2026
December 24, 2025, 12:12 AM EST. LG Display teased a future of OLED with a simplified 'Tandem' branding for panels and WOLED, signaling higher brightness, longer durability, and improved efficiency. The teaser points to a CES 2026 reveal of next-gen panels and a branding refresh to clarify the multi-layer pixel tech versus rivals like Samsung Display's QD-OLED and RGB-Mini-LED options. The W in WOLED denotes white light sources that boost brightness, while RGB Tandem 2.0 is expected in future sets. Teasers also show Tandem OLED/WOLED gaming monitors, including a 39-inch 5K panel and a 27-inch high-ppi unit, plus a 540 Hz 1440p model. More details will surface at CES 2026.
FCC's Foreign Drone Ban Hits DJI, Sparks National-Security and US Market Debate
December 24, 2025, 12:10 AM EST. The FCC has added foreign-made uncrewed aircraft systems and components to its Covered List, effectively barring imports of DJI drones and other foreign gear deemed a risk to national security. The list covers data-transmission devices, flight controllers, sensors, cameras, batteries, motors and more. Drones already in US hands are not affected. DJI pushed back, saying concerns lack supporting evidence and highlighting openness to a security audit. The move follows a 30-vote to close loopholes enabling removal of tech considered a national-security risk and mirrors past actions against other firms. Officials cite upcoming mass events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics as reasons to safeguard airspace. A separate TP-Link router ban was discussed but not included. The industry watches how future products will be cleared or restricted.
India's LVM3 Launches AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird-6, Expanding Direct-to-Device 5G in LEO
December 24, 2025, 12:06 AM EST. India's LVM3 launched AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird-6 on a rocket from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, deploying the largest commercial LEO antenna to date. At ~6,100 kg, BlueBird-6 is the heaviest satellite lifted from Indian soil by an Indian launcher, with a 223 m² phased array that is ~3.5x larger than BlueBird-1-5. The mission kicks off a phased rollout of dozens of spacecraft designed to connect directly with standard mobile phones, leveraging 10 GHz of onboard processing bandwidth per satellite for up to 120 Mbps peak data rates. AST aims to launch 45-60 satellites by end-2026 to deliver full text, voice and 5G data in the US and other markets, alongside a multi-provider launch plan including SpaceX and Blue Origin.
Korea's Hanbit-Nano first commercial space launch fails after liftoff in Brazil
December 24, 2025, 12:02 AM EST. Korea's private aerospace firm Innospace saw its Hanbit-Nano hybrid rocket fail shortly after liftoff from the Alcântara Space Center in Brazil. Lift-off occurred at 10:13 a.m. Korea time, with the first-stage ignition proceeding as planned before an in-flight anomaly triggered a large flame and what appeared to be an explosion. Innospace said the vehicle was brought down within the secured ground safety zone and that there were no casualties. The mission aimed to deploy eight small satellites into a low Earth orbit (~300 km) for Brazilian and Indian customers, marking Korea's first commercial launch led by a private company. Data analysis results will be disclosed later.
Windows 11 gains native NVMe driver via registry edits, boosting random writes up to 85% in some setups
December 24, 2025, 12:00 AM EST. Windows 11 can tap native NVMe performance by enabling a registry-based driver. Microsoft added a native NVMe driver in Windows Server 2025, but it isn't active by default in consumer Windows 11; users can force it on via registry edits. In tests, an SK Hynix Platinum P41 2TB on 25H2 and a Crucial T705 4TB in an MSI Claw 8 AI+ showed improved random read/write, with random writes up to ~85% higher on some hardware. Results vary by drive and system. Registry changes carry risk (data access loss possible); proceed with caution and revert if issues. No official rollout yet; PCIe 6.0 SSDs are still nascent. More on storage here: Kioxia Exceria Plus G4 review.
