News News: 26 July 2025 - 29 July 2025

October 26, 2025, 3:46 PM EDT. Quantum computing is pushing cryptography to a crossroads. The shift to standards like Crystals-Kyber signals governments preparing for a future where current public-key cryptography could be cracked by a quantum machine. The idea is chilling: a breakthrough could unlock data stored by banks, intelligence agencies, and private firms. Yet the story isn't doom: researchers point to post-quantum cryptography and new standards that may outpace attackers exploiting Shor's algorithm. Companies like Google claim quantum advantage on tasks beyond classical reach, while startups such as Oxford Quantum Circuits install machines in data centers. The timeline-2035 or 2040-remains debated, but the move to quantum-resistant encryption is already underway, with nations mapping countermeasures and opportunities in materials science and drug discovery alongside the security race.

October 26, 2025, 3:44 PM EDT. Nvidia is expanding its footprint in Israel with a new, roughly 3,000 square meter Beersheba R&D site at Gav-Yam's high-tech park, tripling the current facility and aiming for full capacity by the end of H1 2026. The Beersheba center will add hundreds of roles for chip developers, hardware and software engineers, architects, students, and graduates, complementing existing hubs in Tel Aviv, Ra'anana, Yokneam, Mevo Carmel, and Tel Hai. The teams will build AI-focused hardware and software, including Spectrum-X Ethernet, Quantum-X InfiniBand, NVLink, ConnectX, and BlueField DPUs, plus data-center CPUs. Nvidia employs over 5,000 people in Israel; since acquiring Mellanox in 2020, the workforce has more than doubled. The expansion strengthens Nvidia's commitment to the Negev and to global AI innovation.

October 26, 2025, 3:42 PM EDT. An AI gun-detection system at Kenwood High School in Baltimore County flagged an empty Doritos bag as a possible firearm, leading to the handcuffing of student Taki Allen. Police quickly determined there was no weapon; the alert was canceled after a district review. The episode underscores risks of AI in school safety and potential misidentifications. Omnilert, the vendor, said its system flags threats for rapid human verification, not a final judgment. Officials are calling for a review of how the system is deployed and how alerts are communicated to families and students, to prevent similar incidents while maintaining safety.

October 26, 2025, 3:40 PM EDT. ZDNET says the Pixel Watch 3 remains one of the best smartwatches of 2025, even as the newer Pixel Watch 4 hits the market. Right now, Walmart and Best Buy have the Pixel Watch 3 on sale, with most configurations discounted. The standout offer is the Wi-Fi 45mm model in the Matte Hazel Aluminum case with the Haze Band, listed for about $230, roughly a $170 discount. In total, about 11 of 12 configurations are discounted, with discounts around 45% off the original price. Improvements over the Pixel Watch 2-larger 45mm display, slimmer bezels, longer battery life, a dynamic refresh rate, and snappier UI-continue to win praise. Deals can sell out or expire, so act fast and check ZDNET for updates.

October 26, 2025, 3:38 PM EDT. Walmart slashes prices on the Pixel Watch 3, offering up to $210 off across configurations, with the 45mm Wi-Fi model (Matte Hazel aluminum with Haze band) often seeing the deepest cuts. The watch delivers a larger display, brighter screen, taller bezels reduction, improved haptics, and all-day battery with an always-on display. It includes Fitbit health tracking: continuous heart rate, ECG, SpO2, skin temperature, stress, sleep, and safety features like fall detection and Emergency SOS. Great for Android users and Wear OS fans, with Google Wallet, Maps, and Assistant integration. The sale positions the Pixel Watch 3 as a refined Wear OS option at a price that outpaces many flagship rivals, particularly for those seeking deep Google app integration.