Technology News 05.01.2026

LEGO unveils smart brick to unlock a new generation of play

January 5, 2026, 11:54 PM EST. LEGO has rolled out a new smart brick that adds sensors and wireless connectivity to LEGO builds, signaling a shift toward interactive play. The brick can respond to inputs, trigger animations, and connect with companion apps to unlock coding challenges, storytelling, and STEAM activities. With this hardware, kids can prototype smart creations, program behaviors, and explore robotics concepts without leaving the LEGO world. The product signals LEGO's push into programmable play and could pave the way for cross-brand integrations, digital libraries, and classroom deployments. Expect teachers and families to mix physical bricks with digital content to spark creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving.

AMD Ryzen AI 400: Big Boost for Laptops and Desktops with 60 TOPS NPUs at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 11:52 PM EST. AMD is rolling out the Ryzen AI 400 family at CES 2026, bringing 60 TOPS XDNA 2 NPUs and a desktop-grade Copilot+ option. The lineup tops out with the Ryzen AI 9 HX 475 offering up to 12 Zen 5 cores, 5.2GHz boost, and up to 8,533 MT/s memory. Even the mid-range Ryzen AI 5 430 delivers 50 TOPS NPU and strong memory speeds. AMD claims up to 30% faster multi-tasking, 70% faster content creation, and 10% faster gaming versus prior chips, plus about 70% better unplugged connectivity in Cinebench nT. While Copilot+ hasn't flourished yet, these chips advance AI inference at home and on the go. Expect improved battery life and smoother AI workloads, though Windows AI features like Recall and Copilot voice controls remain an area for polish.

Tanzania Leads Africa's Most Expensive Internet Shutdowns in 2025, Top10VPN

January 5, 2026, 11:20 PM EST. New data from Top10VPN shows Africa faced its costliest internet shutdown year in 2025, with Tanzania suffering the heaviest hit: $889.8 million in lost value after 5,448 hours offline, affecting 20.6 million users. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, shutdowns cost governments and businesses about $1.11 billion in 2025, spanning 19,638 hours of disruption and impacting roughly 116.1 million users. The report underscores the broader economic damage of deliberate network outages and highlights persistent policy and regulatory risks across the region.

New Siri overhaul in iOS 26.4 due in March: expected release date and features

January 5, 2026, 11:16 PM EST. Apple is rolling out a major AI upgrade for Siri with the upcoming iOS 26.4. The changes, expected to land in March (likely late March), would replace Siri's old architecture with an LLM-based system. Bloomberg has long flagged this release, with corroborating code leaks from iOS 26.4 builds. Apple's timeline depends on beta progress: the first beta often appears in January or February, shaping the public release. New features touted for Siri include App Intents for hands-free computing, Personal context knowledge, and improved onscreen awareness. If the pattern holds, iOS 26.4 could follow recent iOS x.4 timing, though an earlier debut is possible. Fans await a noticeably smarter, more capable assistant across devices.

16 Years Ago, Google Launched the Nexus One, a Milestone in Android History

January 5, 2026, 11:14 PM EST. On December 12, 2009, Google revealed a secret project that would become the Nexus One, a turning point for Android. The post described a 'mobile lab' that paired hardware from a partner with Android software to test new features. The Nexus One, manufactured by HTC, was teased for months as leaks showed codenames like Dragon, Passion, and Bravo, and even a Google employee posted a photo. The Wall Street Journal later confirmed the name and HTC's role, underscoring Google's early dogfooding approach. This launch signaled a shift toward Google-owned hardware collaboration and helped shape how Android devices would be designed and marketed in the years to come.

Galaxy Book6 Ultra Delivers AI-Powered Performance in a Sleek, Slim Design at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 11:12 PM EST. Samsung unveils the Galaxy Book6 Ultra, Pro, and Book6, pairing AI-powered productivity with a slim, portable chassis. Powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors on the Intel 18A node, they offer up to 60% faster CPU performance and an integrated NPU delivering up to 50 TOPS for on-device AI tasks like image cleanup, instant translation, and intelligent search. Enhanced by the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070/5060 Laptop GPUs, the lineup enables fast AI image generation, smooth video playback, editing, and immersive gaming. A meticulously designed vapor-chamber cooling and airflow system sustains performance with minimal noise, while immersive visuals and audio elevate productivity and creativity on the go.

AMD unveils AI chips at CES, previews MI455, MI440X and MI500

January 5, 2026, 11:10 PM EST. At CES in Las Vegas, AMD CEO Lisa Su unveiled a slate of AI chips led by the MI455 processors for data-center racks and the MI440X, an on-premise enterprise variant designed for non-AI-specific infrastructure. The MI440X traces to an earlier chip used by the U.S. for high-performance computing. Su also teased the MI500, claiming up to 1,000× the performance of an older processor, with launches planned for 2027. OpenAI, a key customer, joined Su on stage as the company's growing AI computing demand drives chip investments, including a recent multi-billion-dollar deal. Nvidia also showcased its next-gen platform at CES, underscoring a broader AI-chip race AMD aims to win with data-center and enterprise deployments.

AMD unveils Ryzen AI 400 Series and Ryzen 7 9850X3D for gaming and AI PCs at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 11:08 PM EST. At CES 2026, AMD announced its Ryzen AI 400 Series for AI-powered personal computers, promising AI for everyone. The chips offer 12 CPU cores and 24 threads, boasting about 1.3x faster multitasking and 1.7x faster content creation versus competitors. This is an upgrade from the Ryzen AI 300 Series, with production rooted in AMD's long-running Ryzen lineage since 2017. AMD also unveiled the Ryzen 7 9850X3D, a gaming-focused processor. Availability is slated for Q1 2026 for machines using either the Ryzen AI 300 Series or the 9850X3D. CEO Lisa Su underscored AI's growing role in everyday computing, while the company highlighted Redstone ray tracing for improved graphics. AMD reports growth to over 250 AI PC platforms.

Hyundai-Boston Dynamics Challenge Tesla's Robot Narrative at CES

January 5, 2026, 11:06 PM EST. At CES, Hyundai leverages its stake in Boston Dynamics to upstage Tesla in the robotics narrative. The move hinges on a mature platform rather than car output: Atlas has long defined what humanoid robots can do, and Hyundai says a future factory could produce around 30,000 Atlas robots a year while building a vast dataset to train manufacturing skills. The piece frames Musk's Optimus hype as aspirational, contrasting it with the credibility built over three decades by Boston Dynamics. Still, much of the chatter may be investor-friendly hype until real production materializes. The CES moment is less about science fiction than about a tangible manufacturing roadmap that could reshape robot-driven labor costs.

Pro Cameraphone Showdown: Honor Magic8 Pro vs Oppo Find X9 Pro vs vivo X300 Pro

January 5, 2026, 10:56 PM EST. A quick look at three upcoming rear-triple camera flagships: Honor Magic8 Pro, Oppo Find X9 Pro, and vivo X300 Pro. All share a similar three-sensor setup, with a main camera around a 1/1.3" sensor, ~23-24mm equivalent focal length, and fast apertures, plus 50MP front cameras. In ultrawide, Oppo and vivo use identical 50MP sensors with 15mm lenses, while Honor trims a broader 12mm ultrawide. The telephotos differ: Oppo's 70mm f/2.1 periscope versus the other two's ~85mm f/2.6-f/2.7. Front-end autofocus varies, with Honor reportedly dropping AF on the front lens. Sensor size and lens choices shape real-world results, especially for zoom reach and low-light performance, making this a closer-than-expected Pro cameraphone round.

AMD CES 2026 Keynote: Zen 6 Debuts, MI455X Gains, and the Helios AI Rack

January 5, 2026, 10:52 PM EST. Live from CES 2026, AMD revealed a tangible path to AI-scale compute. The keynote showcased a first public look at Zen 6, hinting at a consumer version later this year. AMD unveiled the MI455X with a claimed 10x uplift over the MI355X, alongside Venice, a 2nm module with up to 256 Zen 6 cores and 31TB of HBM4. The new Helios rack-scale platform packs four MI455X GPUs and Epyc CPUs in a liquid-cooled compute tray, with 320 billion transistors and up to 72 GPUs per rack. CEO Lisa Su framed Helios as essential for the AI era, targeting cross-CPU/GPU/NPUs and cloud-scale scaling, aiming for 10+ YottaFLOPS in coming years.

AMD Ryzen AI 400 official: Can these laptop chips keep AMD ahead?

January 5, 2026, 10:50 PM EST. AMD's Ryzen AI 400 is the follow-up to Ryzen AI 300 Strix Point, but it's not a major leap. Built on the same Zen 5 and Zen 5c CPU cores with RDNA 3.5 graphics and the same core counts, the top models gain modest wins: higher CPU/GPU frequencies, more memory bandwidth, and a faster NPU for AI tasks. The HX 475 now tops out at 60 TOPS (HX 470 at 55 TOPS). AMD frames the update against Intel's Lunar Lake and Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2, with AI gains driven by improvements in manufacturing, firmware, software, and memory. Laptops from major brands ship in Q1 2026, competing with Panther Lake and Snapdragon X2. AMD also unveils Ryzen AI Max Plus Strix Halo GPUs for more affordable systems, with prices roughly $499 to $1,000-$1,500.

The Next Phase of Nvidia's AI Boom Could Be Bigger in 2026

January 5, 2026, 10:42 PM EST. Nvidia's AI surge appears far from over as the company runs at full capacity. The driver is data-center GPUs, which produced the majority of roughly $57B in revenue and left Nvidia "sold out," per CEO Jensen Huang. To meet demand, Nvidia is expanding capacity across suppliers and product lines, even trimming gaming-chip output to free resources for higher-margin data-center GPUs. The trend could lift Nvidia in 2026 as hyperscalers build their own chips and Nvidia navigates a re-entry into China with H20 chips facing an export fee. Whether Nvidia absorbs or passes the 25% fee will influence margins and pricing, but if capacity and policy dynamics align, the next AI phase could amplify Nvidia's dominance.

Intuitive Machines (LUNR) Expands into Lunar Satellite Manufacturing: Has the Bull Case Changed?

January 5, 2026, 10:26 PM EST. Intuitive Machines is broadening its footprint by acquiring Lanteris Space Systems and expanding its role in NASA's Near Space Network (NSNS), planning to deploy the first of five lunar satellites by mid-2026 to support lunar communications and GPS-like services. The move deepens vertical integration and could bolster future contract opportunities, including the Lunar Terrain Vehicle program. The NSNS award, potentially up to US$4.82 billion, underpins a bull case for recurring civil/defense revenue, yet it raises fixed costs and execution risk if schedules slip. The stock remains sensitive to NASA/defense dependencies, with fair-value ranges spanning wide estimates and notable downside risk versus the current price. Investors should weigh multiple scenarios in what is still a developing commercial lunar infrastructure backdrop.

5 Essential Android Productivity Apps to Supercharge Your Day

January 5, 2026, 10:22 PM EST. Your Android device can replace a computer for email, spreadsheets, and video calls, but distractions from social media hold you back. The fix is a curated set of productivity apps. The list covers tools to organize time and tasks, including a calendar and to-do suite, a document scanner, and a file manager to streamline workflows. A standout is Focus Friend, an accountability app by Hank Green that locks distracting apps during focus sessions from five minutes to two hours. Its playful Bean Friend companion earns socks and scarves to buy décor, rewarding progress and motivating commitment. The app can also trigger breaks between sessions. The article emphasizes choosing apps that reduce interruptions and help you stay focused to boost your Android productivity.

Google TV Gemini at CES: Practical voice controls to playful AI image/video tricks

January 5, 2026, 10:20 PM EST. At CES, Google showcased Gemini on Google TV, ranging from practical to playful. The standout is voice control that can adjust settings-like turning off motion smoothing-without leaving a game. The Deep Dive feature turns quick questions into narrated mini-lessons with images and tiles for further exploration. Google Photos integration lets Gemini pull trip shots into the big screen, with Remix turning a photo into an oil-painting style. For more novelty, Nano Banana can cartoonize images and Veo can animate short clips, though video generation may depend on your Gemini tier. Overall, some features are more useful than others, but on the biggest screen in the house, many will enjoy experimenting with AI-powered visuals and Google Photos on Google TV.

Papua New Guinea Starlink Shutdown Sparks Frustration Over Internet Access

January 5, 2026, 10:18 PM EST. Frustration is rising in Papua New Guinea weeks after the government ordered Starlink to shut down for operating without a licence. The regulator, Nicta (National Information and Communications Technology Authority), says the service cannot operate until approval is granted. Officials are awaiting directives from the ombudsman or courts, with no timeline. Before the shutdown, Starlink served thousands of users, including entire villages in rural PNG, where mobile networks are unreliable or nonexistent. The move disrupts healthcare, education, and business, prompting petitions and criticism from communities and small businesses. Starlink said it would resume service once approvals are granted, but the government has not commented, leaving many areas without affordable internet access and forcing some users to travel to towns. Health workers and teachers report adverse impacts.

ROG XREAL R1: 240Hz AR glasses bring gaming monitor to your face

January 5, 2026, 10:06 PM EST. At CES, XREAL unveiled the ROG XREAL R1, a gaming-focused AR glasses developed with Asus. Building on the refreshed XREAL One 1S, the R1 uses micro-OLED displays clocking at 240Hz and delivers a 3 ms latency, promising a monitor-on-your-face experience for portable gaming. The collaboration with Asus highlights a hardware-first approach to augmented reality gaming, emphasizing high refresh rates, low latency, and portability. The R1 aims to make AR glasses a compelling alternative to external monitors for on-the-go gamers.

Dell revives XPS at CES with slimmer, badge-branded laptops

January 5, 2026, 9:46 PM EST. Dell is reviving the XPS line after a controversial rebranding that coincided with a slide in PC market share. At CES, Dell unveiled the XPS 14 and XPS 16, featuring a more practical design, a traditional function row, and a visible edge-to-edge trackpad with a subtle glow. The move restores the XPS branding to the front, even as Dell trims weight-about 3.0 lbs for the XPS 14 and 3.6 lbs for the XPS 16-and gives both models a more Microsoft-like, minimal aesthetic. Inside, they run Intel's new Panther Lake Core Ultra chips with optional OLED displays. Dell also teased an XPS 13 later this year, promising thinner, lighter, and cheaper options. Availability begins January 6, with $1,650 for the XPS 14 and $1,850 for the XPS 16.

Protect your iPhone 17 Pro with a rugged Beats case – save more than 50%

January 5, 2026, 9:36 PM EST. Tech writer Gabriela spotlights a limited-time deal on a rugged Beats case for the iPhone 17 Pro, offering more than half off. The case delivers rugged protection for drops and daily scrapes, ideal for travelers and busy hands. This promo aligns with Gabriela's 12 years of coverage in tech deals, news, and buying guides across outlets like PCWorld, Macworld, PCMag, IGN, MakeUseOf, and Android Police.

Xgimi unveils Memomind AI smart glasses: Memo One, Memo Air Display and more at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 9:34 PM EST. Xgimi is entering the smart glasses arena with a new brand, Memomind, and unveils three models at CES 2026. The lineup includes Memo One, a full-featured experience with dual-lens display and built-in speakers, aimed at users seeking high technology in their glasses. The second model, Memo Air Display, targets a more traditional glasses look with a single monocular display and customizable frames. A third model is in development with details to come. All glasses run on a hybrid-LLM that blends AI models (OpenAI, Qwen, Azure) to fit tasks, enabling features like translation, summarization, note-taking, and contextual guidance in the background. Pre-orders begin after CES, with a starting price around $599. More details to follow on release windows for the third model.

Lego Debuts Sensor-Driven Smart Bricks With Star Wars Tie-Ins at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 9:32 PM EST. Lego is unveiling Smart Bricks as part of a new Smart Play system at CES 2026. Each 2×4 brick hides an ASIC chip, an accelerometer, built-in speakers, and ambient LEDs. The bricks communicate over Bluetooth and can sense nearby Smart Tags and Smart Minifigures with embedded tags, enabling multi-brick interactions and proximity-driven sounds and lights. The system supports a distributed network across many bricks and sets, with distance and 3D positioning potential. Star Wars sets will tap into the tech, including TIE Fighters and minifigures that trigger lights and sound effects. Demos showed shake-to-activate gameplay and color recognition, with a release window around March 1.

Panoptic II Expands 1v4 VR vs PC, Quest 3 and Mobile Support

January 5, 2026, 9:30 PM EST. Panoptic II, announced by Team Panoptes, keeps the core 'VR seeker vs. non-VR hiders' but scales to a 1v4 setup. Up to four non-VR players can join from mobile devices, while the VR seeker hunts from a headset. The sequel is coming to PC and, for the first time, Quest 3. The team plans crowdfunding via Patreon and will begin with closed testing, aiming for a first build in Q1. This shift should dramatically improve accessibility compared to the original, which required both sides on the same PC. Panoptic II promises new maps and broader cross-platform play, turning it into a portable party game you can play remotely.

JPMorgan Chase Could Become Apple's New Credit Card Partner

January 5, 2026, 9:02 PM EST. Speculation has risen that JPMorgan Chase could become Apple Card's next partner, potentially accelerating an international expansion beyond the US. Reports note that Apple has already filed for Apple Card trademark protection in Canada, hinting that the lender could be the next to join. Talks with financial authorities in Europe are reportedly underway, but a wide rollout may still be years away, with markets like Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Norway singled out as possible early targets. The development follows ongoing coverage from outlets such as ComputerSweden. If confirmed, the deal would mark a major shift in Apple's fintech strategy and credit-card ecosystem.

Samsung The First Look 2026 at CES: AI Living Companions Redefine Everyday Life

January 5, 2026, 9:00 PM EST. Samsung Electronics unveiled The First Look 2026 at CES Las Vegas under the theme 'Your Companion to AI Living', showcasing how AI enhances daily life across Entertainment, Home, and Care. The AI Gallery Zone blends iconic art-Vincent van Gogh's Starry Night Over the Rhône and the Lee Kun-Hee Collection-into the space, signaling AI's cultural role. In the Entertainment Companion Zone, the Micro RGB 130" TV led a Vision AI demo with hands-free search for recipes, match predictions, and music, while the lineup highlighted Music Studio series, AI Beauty Mirror, Sound Tower, and Transparent Micro LED reimagining vinyl nostalgia. The Spatial Signage demo animated visitors in real time. The Home Companion Zone highlighted future appliances like the Bespoke AI Refrigerator Family Hub 32" and AI-enabled laundry, pointing toward less housework and more freedom.

Apple launches Year of the Horse Limited-Edition AirPods Pro 3 for Lunar New Year

January 5, 2026, 8:58 PM EST. Apple has kicked off its Lunar New Year sales with a limited-edition Year of the Horse variant of the AirPods Pro 3. The case features a special emoji design, while the earbuds remain the same. The release is available in China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia at Apple Retail Stores and Apple Online Stores, while stocks last. Each customer can buy up to 2 units. If replacement or repair is needed, Apple may provide the standard edition AirPods Pro 3, subject to supply. Apple is also offering a small lineup of limited-edition Year of the Horse accessories. Availability is limited and supply-driven.

ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo finally gets true dual 16-inch OLED screens at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 8:56 PM EST. ASUS is redefining the Zephyrus Duo for CES 2026 with two full-size 16-inch 3K 120Hz OLED HDR displays that reach 1,100 nits. The detachable keyboard/tracpad can be used wirelessly or mounted on the bottom display for flexible layouts, including two-up or side-by-side modes. The laptop is 0.77 inches thick and weighs 6.28 pounds, powered by Intel Panther Lake CPUs and Nvidia RTX 50-series GPUs up to RTX 5090. Pricing isn't set, with a mid-to-late Q2 2026 launch. Meanwhile, the standard Zephyrus G14/G16 get refinements: factory-calibrated OLEDs up to 1,000 nits, improved cooling, easier hinges, and 35-segment LED slash lighting; the G14 adds a full-size SD card slot and Intel option.

Air Force invites bids for Space Launch Complex 14 at Vandenberg, southernmost Western Range launch site

January 5, 2026, 8:54 PM EST. The Department of the Air Force has issued an RFI to gauge interest from orbital launch providers for Space Launch Complex 14 (SLC-14) at Vandenberg Space Force Base, seeking a southernmost pad on the Western Range. SLC-14 would be reserved for heavy or super-heavy rockets with payloads from 20,000-50,000 kg (and above 50,000 kg). The RFI emphasizes national-security objectives and requires providers to demonstrate highest technical maturity and the ability to begin operations within roughly five years of a lease. Vandenberg already hosts multiple pads (SLC-2, SLC-4E, SLC-6, etc.). The unimproved site sits near utilities, with the Union Pacific Railroad about 2,000 ft away. Space Launch Delta 30 oversees the process, aiming to maximize assured access to space.

Samsung's Galaxy AI Push Could Challenge Apple and Redefine the Smartphone Market

January 5, 2026, 8:50 PM EST. Samsung plans to release 800 million AI-powered devices this year, powered by Google's Gemini in its Galaxy AI line, signaling a bold bid to steal share from Apple and strengthen Android's lead. The strategy pairs Galaxy AI with Samsung's foldables to capitalize on China's enormous market and push more developers toward Google's platform, competing with OpenAI and others. Apple has yet to offer native AI in iOS, leaning on third-party apps for AI features. If Samsung's plan gains traction, it could loosen iPhone momentum and shift the competitive balance toward AI-enabled hardware, Google's platform strategy, and the continued expansion of foldable devices.

Motorola Teases Razr Fold Ahead of CES 2026 Reveal

January 5, 2026, 8:48 PM EST. Motorola has teased a Razr Fold, a book-style foldable phone, ahead of CES 2026. The teaser video hints at a new era as Lenovo gears up for a Las Vegas Tech World presentation with livestreams. Leaker Evan Blass has floated a Motorola Fold and a flagship named Signature featuring four 50-MP cameras, and teaser imagery reportedly shows a four-camera foldable. The slides promise brilliant displays, intelligent AI, and a boundary-breaking camera system. If real, this would mark Motorola's first book-style foldable after the Flip lineup, signaling a bold expansion of its foldable ambitions. Expect timing, pricing, and hands-on details to surface as Motorola prepares official specs.

Swerv: Dating App Pioneer's In-Person Meeting Push Debuts in Denver

January 5, 2026, 8:46 PM EST. Swerv, a location-based dating app from veteran founder Scott Demyon, is launching in Denver in January to rethink online dating. Breaking from swipe-first culture, Swerv limits messaging and makes photos optional, prioritizing real-world encounters. Users' locations appear as pins on a map, helping them gauge where they might meet compatible matches IRL. Anonymity is default, with optional name/photo display and quick intro prompts like 'Join me for coffee' to spark in-person conversations. Messages are only possible within a few hundred feet, aiming to reduce ghosting, bots, and endless online chasing. Demyon argues modern apps strip chemistry and body language, and Swerv's goal is to improve match quality by encouraging organic connections in real life.

Nvidia aims to be the Android of generalist robotics with new stack and Jetson T4000

January 5, 2026, 8:44 PM EST. Tech giant Nvidia is pushing to become the Android of generalist robotics, unveiling a full-stack stack of robot foundation models, simulators, and edge hardware at CES 2026. The suite includes world models Cosmos Transfer 2.5 and Cosmos Predict 2.5 for synthetic data and policy evaluation, Cosmos Reason 2 as a vision-language reasoner, and Isaac GR00T N1.6 a vision-language-action model for humanoids. GR00T uses Cosmos Reason as its brain to enable whole-body control. Nvidia also launched Isaac Lab-Arena, an open-source simulation framework, and OSMO, an open-source command center. The new Blackwell-powered Jetson T4000 offers up to 1200 teraflops and 64 GB at 40-70 W. The company deepens ties with Hugging Face to broaden access to robot training.

AI-generated images of Maduro strike go viral as misinformation spreads on social media

January 5, 2026, 8:42 PM EST. After Trump's announcement of a 'large-scale strike' on Venezuela, AI-generated images and out-of-context videos flooded social media (X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok). False scenes claimed Maduro was escorted by DEA agents, or missiles hitting Caracas; real footage mixed with fakes, complicating verification. NewsGuard identified seven fabricated items totaling over 14 million views on X. Experts say such AI fabrication mimics reality, making fact-checking harder as images flood in real time. While tools like reverse image search and AI detectors help, they remain imperfect. The episode highlights how rapidly AI-driven misinformation can distort events and influence public perception ahead of confirmed reporting.

TCL bets on quantum dots and mini-LED with the X11L at CES

January 5, 2026, 8:40 PM EST. TCL is touting the X11L SQD-Mini LED TV at CES, combining blue backlights with reformulated quantum dots and TCL CSOT's UltraColor Filter to push color accuracy. TCL claims 100 percent coverage of BT.2020, DCI-P3, and Adobe RGB, with peak brightness up to 10,000 nits and up to 20,000 dimming zones (likely on the 98-inch). Compared with RGB LED rivals, the X11L uses the same LED backlight but relies on new quantum dots and improved color filtering to avoid color crosstalk and saturation loss. It will support Dolby Vision 2 via OTA update, has four HDMI 2.1 ports, and will enable the Xbox Game Pass app and Google TV Gemini features via firmware updates. Built-in Bang & Olufsen speakers deliver strong audio; preorder for 85" and 98" now, 75" later.

AI investment matures in 2026 as analysts warn diversification beyond megacaps is essential

January 5, 2026, 8:36 PM EST. AI took investors on a date in 2025, and in 2026 analysts say it's time to foot the bill. This maturation prompts a hard look at market concentration and the risk of a single point of failure tied to a few megacaps. As Max Wasserman warns, diversification matters and investors must understand what they own and what happens if they're wrong, with concerns about circular financing around OpenAI. The 2025 S&P 500 rose about 17%, driven by the Magnificent Seven and a frenzy around AI that some call unsustainable. Even as chips like Micron surged, others like Oracle faced scrutiny. For investors seeking chip exposure without hype, Broadcom offers stability, while Nvidia remains core; consider Nebius, Iren, and Palo Alto Networks for the next leg, aided by a potential Fed rate-cut backdrop.

Nvidia Doubles Down on AI at CES, Gaming GPUs Take Backseat

January 5, 2026, 8:30 PM EST. At CES, Nvidia signaled an AI-first strategy, with Jensen Huang spotlighting data-center chips over new gaming GPUs. The keynote emphasized AI accelerators, software, and scale, signaling a shift from consumer graphics to enterprise AI workloads. Nvidia also teased consumer-focused updates to be revealed on its stream later, encouraging gamers to tune in for new announcements. The takeaway: Nvidia is building an AI-centric platform-spanning chips, tools, and ecosystems-where the core action centers on AI data centers rather than standalone gaming hardware.

GE Lighting unveils Matter-compatible smart shades starting at $299.99

January 5, 2026, 8:26 PM EST. GE Lighting is unveiling CES-bound smart shades that start at $299.99, offering sleek design with hidden mounting hardware. Available in white or gray with a silver trim, they come in light filtering or full blackout options. A key draw is Matter compatibility, ensuring easier integration with modern smart home hubs. For those with older gear, GE includes a remote in the box. While not the cheapest option-SwitchBot shades start around $199 and Lutron models begin at $399-GE emphasizes a stylish, streamlined install that blends with most setups.

Starlink Debris Threat: Russia's Potential ASAT Move Could Create Orbiting Hazard

January 5, 2026, 8:22 PM EST. Reports from the Associated Press suggest Russia is developing a new anti-satellite system aimed at Starlink satellites, which currently support Ukraine's internet access. The plan reportedly involves releasing thousands of pellets into the same orbit, underscoring long-standing concerns about space debris and the potential to disrupt not only Starlink but other satellites and space operations. Such debris would be hard to contain and could become a weapon that affects Russia's own space assets as well. The move could also impact countries relying on Starlink, including Lebanon, highlighting growing orbital congestion and the global risk of a crowded, hazardous near-Earth environment.

CES: ASUS Unveils Hideo Kojima-Themed ROG Flow Z13-KJP Gaming Tablet

January 5, 2026, 8:20 PM EST. ASUS teamed up with Kojima Productions to reveal the ROG Flow Z13-KJP, a Kojima-inspired variant of the ROG Flow Z13. Exterior styling borrows from Death Stranding and Ludens, while interior specs remain similar to the standard model. The device uses a Surface Pro-like form factor but acts like a gaming laptop, marketed as a gaming tablet. The 13.4-inch IPS touchscreen runs at up to 180Hz with up to 500 nits brightness. Connectivity is robust: two USB 4 Type-C, one USB-A, HDMI 2.1, 3.5mm audio, and a microSD slot. It houses a Ryzen AI Max+ 395 with integrated graphics and can be configured with up to 128GB LPDDR5X 8000 RAM. Pricing/availability not announced yet.

Qualcomm unveils Snapdragon X2 Plus at CES, boosting cores and AI performance

January 5, 2026, 8:14 PM EST. At CES, Qualcomm unveils the Snapdragon X2 Plus, a mid-range follow-up to the flagship Snapdragon X2 Elite. The new SKU uses a third-generation Qualcomm Oryon CPU with six or ten cores and promises up to 35% faster single-core performance vs. the prior generation, plus up to 10-17% faster multi-core results. An upgraded Hexagon NPU enables AI workloads up to 80 TOPS. An Adreno GPU rounds out the package with notable performance gains. While the X2 Elite targets Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs, the X2 Plus sits between flagship silicon and mid-range laptops, delivering stronger CPU and AI acceleration without the higher core counts.

XGIMI Titan Noir Max 4K Projector brings dynamic IRIS and boosted contrast at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 8:12 PM EST. XGIMI unveiled the Titan Noir Max, its high-end 4K projector debuting at CES 2026, featuring a dynamic IRIS system that pushes native contrast toward 10,000:1 and brighter highlights. The model adds precision tuned optics and a reworked DMD architecture to improve color nuance and brightness, with a laser light engine and 4K image quality. While XGIMI did not specify ANSI lumen output or the DMD chip size, the company touted higher light densities for brighter projection and color accuracy suitable for studios and home theaters. The Titan Noir Max sits taller and squarer than the original Titan, with a grille front and an emphasis on stability, color accuracy, and reliability for demanding installations and enthusiasts. Release date and price remain unannounced.

Can Verge's Solid-State Battery Really Save EV Motorcycles?

January 5, 2026, 8:10 PM EST. Verge Motorcycles' new solid-state battery claims to deliver 370 miles of range and under-20-minute charging, but questions linger about real-world performance. The piece recalls Verge and Donut's 193-mile media push, later met with controversy after a test in London's city center at around 12 mph, yielding about 119 miles of range at normal city speeds and even less on highways. The author notes that street riding and dirt riding have different demands, and that even elite battery tech faces adoption hurdles beyond specs. The article asks whether Verge, Donut, and peers can translate breakthroughs into consumer appeal amid lifestyle fit challenges and broader market skepticism.

First Production All-Solid-State Battery Arrives in the U.S. on Verge TS Pro Electric Motorcycle

January 5, 2026, 8:08 PM EST. Verge Motorcycles says the first all-solid-state battery used in a production vehicle will hit the U.S. market this year. The battery, developed by Donut Lab, offers about 400 Wh/kg energy density and can charge in about five minutes, with a claimed fire-safe profile. The Verge TS Pro electric superbike is touted as the first production motorcycle to ship with an all-solid-state pack, with U.S. deliveries starting in Q1. Designer features include a hubless rear wheel and an integrated rim motor. Donut Lab says its battery is ready for manufacturers, potentially beating rivals like Toyota and QuantumScape. The pack delivers up to ~370 miles (600 km) of range, far above typical lithium-ion benchmarks.

Space particle hits Spain's SpainSat NG-2, risking secure communications constellation

January 5, 2026, 8:06 PM EST. Spain's latest military communications satellite, SpainSat NG-2, was struck by a space particle while en route to its geostationary orbit (GEO), according to Indra Group which operates the satellite for the Ministry of Defense via Hisdesat. The collision, reportedly at about 31,000 miles (50,000 km) altitude-above GEO-puts the interoperability and continuity of Spain's secure constellation in doubt. Since its October launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral, NG-2 has progressed toward orbit but its status remains unknown. A contingency plan is in place to protect clients; if necessary, the satellite could be replaced. NG-1, launched last January, forms the other half of the planned pair.

Dell revives the XPS brand with its thinnest laptops yet: XPS 14 and XPS 16 for CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 8:04 PM EST. Dell is reviving the long-running XPS brand at CES 2026 with its thinnest laptops yet: the XPS 14 and XPS 16. The all-aluminum machines emphasize a dedicated function row, an improved haptic trackpad, and longer battery life thanks to 70Wh cells and variable refresh displays from 1Hz to 120Hz. They pair Intel's Core Ultra chips (up to later X9 388H) with OLED options (14" at 2880×1800 and 16" at 3200×2000) and start at $2,049 (14) and $2,199.99 (16). Availability begins January 6 in select configs, with broader launches in February and a Ubuntu 24.04 option planned later this year. Dell's rekindled emphasis on XPS signals a return to its roots after last year's branding shift.

NVIDIA unveils Alpamayo reasoning AI for autonomous driving at CES

January 5, 2026, 8:00 PM EST. At CES, Nvidia unveiled Alpamayo, a platform that adds reasoning to autonomous vehicles, enabling cars to work through rare scenarios and explain their driving decisions. Nvidia has begun producing a driverless car using its tech-the Mercedes-Benz CLA-with a US rollout planned before Europe and Asia. Alpamayo is described as an open-source AI model whose code will be on Hugging Face, allowing researchers to retrain it. The company frames Alpamayo as a shift from pure compute to a physical AI ecosystem, reinforcing Nvidia's leadership in integrating AI hardware and software. Nvidia also teases a robotaxi service next year with an undisclosed partner. Analysts say the move reinforces Nvidia's status as a leader in AI for vehicles, even as market concerns persist about demand.

Tesla's 2025 China domestic sales dip signals intensifying EV competition

January 5, 2026, 7:54 PM EST. New data shows Tesla posted a December 2025 wholesale of 97,171 from Giga Shanghai, but domestic sales in China declined year over year. Through November, China-based Tesla sales reached about 531,855, versus 657,105 in full-year 2024. Even in an all- domestic December, the maximum would be about 629k-still shy of 2024. A more realistic view, using 2024's 88% retail split, lands around 618k for 2025, roughly a 6% drop. The EV competition-led by BYD and joined by Nio, Xpeng, and Xiaomi-is squeezing Tesla in the Chinese market, where rivals roll out new models at aggressive prices.

Asus ROG teams with Xreal to reveal 240Hz AR glasses (ROG Xreal R1) in 2026

January 5, 2026, 7:50 PM EST. ASUS is teaming up with Xreal to bring a new ROG AR glasses line, the ROG Xreal R1, featuring a remarkable 240Hz refresh rate-doubling the standard 120Hz seen in today's AR gear. The glasses use micro-OLED panels at 1080p and connect via USB-C, with a bundled ROG Control Dock that adds two HDMI 2.0 ports and one DisplayPort 1.4 for PC or console use. The system offers a 57-degree FOV and claims to cover about 95% of the view with a virtual world spanning roughly a 171-inch screen at about four meters. The ROG Xreal R1 is set to launch in H1 2026; price has not been disclosed.

Asus ROG Flow Z13 x Kojima Productions: Death Stranding-inspired limited-edition gaming tablet for CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 7:48 PM EST. ASUS teams up with Kojima Productions for a limited-edition ROG Flow Z13 that doubles as a futuristic showpiece for CES 2026. The tablet is designed by Yoji Shinkawa in a two-tone metallic gold and black with a carbon fiber rear panel and angular lines reminiscent of Death Stranding. It includes a white attache hard case, plus a white headset, mouse, and desk mat sold separately or bundled in some regions. Availability is planned for mid-to-late Q1 2026, with pricing to be announced. Exclusive Kojima variants will feature a keyboard with metallic keycaps. The device builds on last year's AMD Strix Halo-equipped Flow Z13 and marks a bold, design-forward take on gaming tablets.

EV Battery Recycled Plastic Casings Market: Global Forecast 2026-2036

January 5, 2026, 7:46 PM EST. The EV Battery Recycled Plastic Casings market is valued at USD 2.8B in 2026 and projected to reach USD 6.7B by 2036, CAGR 9.10%. Growth is driven by rising electric vehicle (EV) adoption and a push toward recycled plastics in battery casings to reduce emissions and waste. Regulatory oversight and compliance costs significantly shape adoption and market entry, as governments tighten standards and certification requirements add complexity. Leading players like BASF, SABIC, LyondellBasell and others are leveraging regulatory know-how to win contracts with automakers; vendors failing to align with evolving rules may struggle. Li-ion remains the dominant battery type, with Asia Pacific and North America as key growth regions. Market entrants should prioritize regulatory compliance, scalable recycling, and automotive-grade certification.

Acer Veriton RA100 AI Mini Workstation: Windows 11 Copilot+ PC Powered by AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395

January 5, 2026, 7:42 PM EST. Acer unveils the Veriton RA100 AI Mini Workstation powered by AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processors with Windows 11 Copilot+. It features AMD Radeon 8060S graphics, 50 NPU TOPS, 60 TFLOPS, and up to 120B parameters for local AI models, generative AI, and 3D design. It offers up to 128 GB LPDDR5X memory and up to 4 TB M.2 SSD storage for demanding workloads. The AI workstation supports adaptive performance modes-Silent, Balanced, and Performance-to control cooling and noise. Acer also expands with the Veriton 2000 Large Tower and All-In-One desktops powered by Intel Core Ultra processors and recycled materials, blending AI performance and security for modern teams. The Veriton RA100 targets prosumers, creators, and gamers needing local LLMs and real-time rendering.

TCL X11 debuts at CES 2026 with Gemini voice control and SQD-Mini LED

January 5, 2026, 7:40 PM EST. At CES 2026, TCL unveils the X11 series powered by SQD-Mini LED with up to 20,000 discrete dimming zones and up to 10,000 nits peak brightness. Available in 75-inch, 85-inch, and 98-inch models, prices start at $6,999. TCL claims 100% of BT.2020 color and a wafer-thin profile at 0.8 inches. A major feature is Gemini's voice control for TV settings, allowing users to adjust brightness and more without the remote. Dolby Vision 2.0 Max support is planned via a future update. TCL also teases an Xbox Game Pass app coming to Google TV. Pre-orders are live on TCL's site ahead of general availability, signaling a new premium standard for large-format TVs.

TCL Unveils X11L SQD-Mini LED TVs at CES 2026 with Deep Color System and 10,000 nits

January 5, 2026, 7:36 PM EST. At CES 2026, TCL introduced the X11L SQD-Mini LED series, available to pre-order in 75", 85", and 98". Prices start at $7,000 and reach $10,000 for the largest model. The standout feature is Deep Color System, which combines Super Quantum Dots, the CSOT UltraColor Filter, and the Advanced Color Purity Algorithm to boost color accuracy. While mini-LEDs can't achieve OLED blacks, the Halo Control System minimizes bloom and provides 20,000 discrete dimming zones and up to 10,000 nits peak brightness. Bang & Olufsen handles audio, and the TV pairs an upgraded AI processor for color, contrast, motion, upscaling, and sound with Gemini for Google TV integration.

Array Labs raises $20M Series A to scale radar satellites for 3D Earth mapping

January 5, 2026, 7:32 PM EST. Array Labs, a Silicon Valley startup building radar-based Earth observation satellites, announced a $20 million Series A led by Catapult Ventures, with participation from Washington Harbour Partners, Kompas VC and others, bringing total funding to $35 million. The company aims to commercialize synthetic aperture radar (SAR) at scale, slashing costs by leveraging manufacturing techniques from consumer electronics and telecom. CEO Andrew Peterson says they will break the cost curve that has limited radar to a small set of government customers. Array will launch clusters of small satellites in coordinated formations to image the same area from multiple angles, enabling faster revisit times and true 3D terrain and object models. It operates three business lines: radar payloads, sovereign systems, and data products from its constellation, and has won several U.S. defense and intelligence contracts.

Samsung Display Assistant Good Lock updated for One UI 8.5 as beta expands compatibility

January 5, 2026, 7:26 PM EST. Samsung has rolled out an update for the Display Assistant Good Lock module to add One UI 8.5 compatibility, bringing stability improvements on supported Galaxy devices. The update, version 8.5.10, arrives as Samsung kicks off the One UI 8.5 Beta Program for the Galaxy S25 series, with more system apps and Good Lock modules getting updated for the new UI. Users can grab the patch from Galaxy Store or via the Good Lock app, and it aims to fix previous issues where some features didn't run smoothly. Display Assistant lets users tailor display-related settings beyond stock options, and Samsung has already aligned other modules like NavStar, One Hand Operation+, and Theme Park for One UI 8.5.

AI-generated Utah police report falsely claims officer turned into a frog

January 5, 2026, 7:24 PM EST. A Utah police department started using AI to auto-generate police reports from body camera footage, but one draft produced a false claim that an officer had been transformed into a frog. The Heber City Police Department adopted Draft One and Code Four, built by Axon, to transcribe footage using OpenAI's GPT-4. The error occurred when the background movie The Princess and the Frog was misinterpreted by the AI. Sgt. Rick Keel says the department will keep using the tools with increased oversight. The shift is saving the department 6-8 hours weekly. This incident highlights the need for stronger checks in AI-generated reports and ongoing human review.

Nvidia to skip CES 2026 GPU reveal; RTX 50 Super rumors debunked as AI takes center stage

January 5, 2026, 7:22 PM EST. Nvidia has announced there will be no new GPUs at CES 2026, ending a five-year run of new GPU reveals. The keynote will instead spotlight AI advances and partner products. The long-rumored RTX 50 series and RTX 50 Super were not confirmed, likely derailed by a global DRAM shortage and the difficulty of producing cutting-edge memory (notably GDDR7). Nvidia's latest Blackwell GPUs rely on scarce memory, compounding supply constraints. The bottleneck extends beyond silicon: memory makers like Micron, SK Hynix, and Samsung are prioritizing AI workloads, leaving chipmakers with tight capacity. Industry watchers note no price hikes yet, but the broader AI boom is driving demand and the wider supply chain crunch. Expect more AI features and partnerships than hardware reveals at the show.

Lego Unveils Smart Bricks with Star Wars Interactions at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 7:16 PM EST. At CES 2026, Lego unveiled Smart Bricks that sense, light up, and play sounds via a new Smart Play system. Each 2×4 brick contains an ASIC, an accelerometer, LEDs, and speakers, communicating over Bluetooth. Proximity is detected with Smart Tag tiles and Smart Minifigures, letting multiple bricks recognize nearby pieces and mirror actions. The system supports a distributed network across sets, with colors and distances driving lights and sounds. Star Wars sets will tie in, with interactive TIE Fighters and minifigures reacting to proximity. Release is March 1, promising a flexible play ecosystem where bricks recognize each other for dynamic builds and experiences.

Nvidia unveils Vera Rubin AI data-center platform, eyeing 2026 launch for NVL72

January 5, 2026, 7:14 PM EST. At CES in Las Vegas, Nvidia detailed its new Vera Rubin AI data-center platform, including the NVL72 AI server rack, which the company says will offer unprecedented bandwidth – 'more bandwidth than the entire internet.' Production is underway, with first products due in the second half of 2026. The move heights Nvidia's role in the AI boom, even as the industry debates a possible bubble and faces rising chip competition. CEO Jensen Huang framed the shift from chatbots to agents as developers increasingly relying on large language models rather than traditional code. Nvidia also demonstrated a Vera Rubin-enabled workflow via DGX Spark, illustrating how AI models can tackle more complex, context-heavy tasks.

What's Next for AI in 2026: Chinese LLMs, Open-Weight Models, and Open-Source AI

January 5, 2026, 7:12 PM EST. MIT Technology Review's What's Next forecasts for 2026, flagging a shift where Silicon Valley products increasingly run on Chinese LLMs. Open-weight models like R1 let teams download and run on their own hardware, with customization via distillation and pruning, contrasting with closed models from big US firms. The rise of Qwen from Alibaba-especially Qwen2.5-1.5B-Instruct with millions of downloads-illustrates broad adoption of Chinese offerings. Startups in the US are embracing these tools, signaling a broader ecosystem around open weights, multimodal capabilities, and AI for science and industry. The piece also notes how performance and access are reshaping competition with traditional leaders.

One UI 8.5 Beta 3 lands on Galaxy S25 with bug fixes and January 2026 security patch

January 5, 2026, 7:10 PM EST. Samsung's One UI 8.5 Beta 3 for the Galaxy S25 is a sizable 1.2GB update focused on stability and battery life. The release fixes lock screen clock glitches, gallery lag from Live Effects, widget bugs, and inconsistent UI behavior, while addressing excessive power drain. It includes the January 1, 2026 security patch and smooths the UI, addressing stuttering in the Gallery's Live Effects. The build ends with ZZA3; in the US, SK, Germany, and the UK it's labeled Beta 3 (Beta 2 in India/Poland). Other tweaks include Now Briefing reappearance, steady speed-dial favorites, and a more visible search button on the widget add screen. To install, go to Settings > Software update > Download and install.

Tesla rolls out 0% financing to boost sales as Hyundai posts record year and a new EV sales champion emerges in 2025

January 5, 2026, 7:06 PM EST. In this Quick Charge episode, Tesla's move to 0% financing underscores its struggle with declining sales in China and the U.S. Hyundai marks a fifth consecutive year of record sales, with almost 1 in 3 cars sold being electric and another third being hybrids. The show also flags bold but debated solid-state battery claims from a startup and previews the latest in the EV market leadership.

Nvidia debuts Vera Rubin AI platform with Rubin GPUs at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 7:04 PM EST. Nvidia unveiled its Vera Rubin AI platform at CES 2026, pairing a Vera CPU with two Rubin GPUs in a single chip as part of six-chip Rubin family. Designed for agentic AI, advanced reasoning, and mixture-of-experts (MoE) models, Rubin aims to improve efficiency with a claimed 4x fewer GPUs for MoE training and a 10x reduction in inference token costs. The platform bundles four networking/storage chips-NVLink 6 Switch, ConnectX-9 SuperNIC, BlueField-4 DPU, Spectrum-6 Ethernet Switch-into the Vera Rubin NVL72 server, which can scale to a DGX SuperPOD when multiple units are linked. Nvidia also touts Inference Context Memory Storage for handling data generated by trillion-parameter models. CEO Jensen Huang framed Rubin as a leap in AI computing to meet surging training and inference demand.

Nadella: Stop Calling AI 'Slop'-AI Seen as 'Bicycles for the Mind' in 2026

January 5, 2026, 7:00 PM EST. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella urges we stop treating AI as 'slop' and start seeing it as 'bicycles for the mind'-a scaffolding that augments human potential rather than replacing it. In a personal blog, he calls for a new equilibrium in our 'theory of the mind' that fits AI's cognitive amplifier tools into how we relate to each other. The debate about job loss persists: some warn AI will displace workers, while MIT's ongoing 'Project Iceberg' suggests AI now offloads only a fraction of paid labor and changes the nature of work. Sectors like graphic arts, marketing, and junior coding feel the impact, yet many skilled creators still outperform solo human efforts when AI is used thoughtfully.

Alarming Number of Americans Turn to ChatGPT for Medical Help

January 5, 2026, 6:58 PM EST. New data from OpenAI via Axios shows Americans increasingly treat ChatGPT as a stand-in for a physician. About 40 million people use it for health information, and roughly 5% of all AI messages relate to health. In the U.S., 55% said they'd used ChatGPT to check or explore symptoms, 48% to understand medical terms or instructions, and 44% to learn about treatment options. People also search for health insurance coverage, compare rates, spot overcharges, and appeal rejected claims (1.6-1.9 million insurance-related searches weekly). The data highlights reliance as access to care remains uneven, with underserved rural communities averaging nearly 600,000 health-care messages weekly and 70% of queries outside normal hours. Note: figures come from OpenAI/Axios; other AI tools aren't included.

Bummed About the DJI Drone Ban? Here's What Owning the Mavic 4 Pro in 2025 Would Have Felt Like

January 5, 2026, 6:56 PM EST. DJI's U.S. regulatory squeeze has effectively blocked new drone releases, including the Mavic 4 Pro, from entering the American market. The company's latest 2025 recap video, however, doubles as a marketing highlight reel for non-U.S. fans, showcasing the Mavic 4 Pro's flagship features without implying availability stateside. The film spotlights travel footage from places like the Dolomites, Iceland, and Türkiye, made possible by the drone's 100MP Hasselblad main camera, O4+ transmission, and dual tele lenses. Specs include 6K60 video, 0.1-lux Night Omnidirectional Avoidance, ActiveTrack 360, and a long-range remote, plus a call to share stories on SkyPixel. For U.S. enthusiasts, the gap isn't just legal-it's a reminder of how policy shapes what you can own.

Apple Valuation After Share-Price Softness: 271, 287 Consensus, 223.60 DCF

January 5, 2026, 6:54 PM EST. Apple's stock has cooled recently, trading at US$271.01 after a 1-day -0.3%, 1-week -1.0%, and 1-month -2.8% slide. The stock's 90-day return is 5.7%, with a 1-year TSR of 11.1% and a 3-year TSR that roughly doubled. The market consensus pegs fair value near US$287, implying a modest undervaluation of about 5.4%, while the SWS DCF fair value sits at US$223.60, suggesting the stock could be overvalued at current prices depending on cash-flow assumptions. The bull case hinges on the rollout of Apple Intelligence and stronger margins from proprietary silicon, supporting higher ASPs and earnings power. Risks include regulatory pressure on the App Store, tariffs, and supply-chain disruptions. Readers should consider whether the price already accounts for future growth.

Amazon Fire TV UI overhaul speeds content discovery with Alexa+

January 5, 2026, 6:50 PM EST. Amazon is upgrading Fire TV with a streamlined user interface that helps viewers reach what they want to watch faster. Central to the experience is Alexa+, the generative AI-powered agent available across the interface. Tell Alexa what you are in the mood for, who you are with, or your preferred actors and directors, and it surfaces relevant titles quickly. You can also ask Alexa to add the title to your watchlist, pull stats from the game you are watching, generate an AI-generated screensaver, view photos from your family vacation, dim the lights, or jump straight to an iconic movie scene. The update boosts discovery speed and hands-free control across viewing sessions.

Hands-On With Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold: A 3-Screen Foldable Phone at CES

January 5, 2026, 6:48 PM EST. Samsung unveils a massive Galaxy Z TriFold that adds a third display to the Z Fold 7 concept. At CES, the device stacks a 3-panel layout for multitasking, media, and quick access. The review highlights design, battery life, and software tweaks while asking who benefits most from a 3rd screen and a price tag that will test early adopters. For power users, creators chasing bigger real estate on Android, the TriFold aims to boost productivity and media consumption. However, concerns about durability, weight, and practicality persist, making this a niche flagship rather than a mainstream daily driver. If you crave folding-screen versatility, the Z TriFold could be your new favorite gadget.

Nvidia unveils Alpamayo: open-source AI models, datasets, and tools to help autonomous vehicles think like humans

January 5, 2026, 6:40 PM EST. At CES 2026, Nvidia announced Alpamayo, a family of open-source AI models, datasets, and tools designed to help autonomous vehicles reason through complex driving scenarios. The flagship Alpamayo 1 is a 10-billion-parameter chain-of-thought, vision-language-action (VLA) model that can break down problems, reason about options, and select safe trajectories, while explaining its decisions. The model code is available on Hugging Face, enabling developers to fine-tune it for vehicle applications, auto-labeling, or evaluators. Nvidia also introduced Cosmos for synthetic data generation and AlpaSim, an open-source simulator on GitHub to validate driving systems. The rollout includes an open dataset with over 1,700 hours of driving data across varied geographies and conditions to test real-world edge cases.

LEGO unveils Smart Play: screen-free, sensor-enabled bricks with Smart Tags at CES

January 5, 2026, 6:38 PM EST. LEGO announced its Smart Play system at CES, introducing interactive, screen-free bricks that sense nearby Smart Tags-2×2 tiles with unique digital IDs that tell the Bricks and Minifigures how to respond. A Smart Brick can light up, play propeller sounds, and react to motion thanks to an accelerometer, built-in speaker, and LED array. The system uses a patented ASIC chip with near-field magnetic positioning and a Bluetooth-based BrickNet protocol for multi-brick coordination, backed by encryption and privacy controls. No setup is required to pair elements. The first two Star Wars sets-Luke's Red Five X-wing ($69.99) and Throne Room Duel and A-wing ($159.99)-launch March 1, with preorders opening Friday, enabling Lightsaber duels via Smart Tags.

Nvidia unveils Vera Rubin AI computing platform at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 6:30 PM EST. Nvidia kicks off 2026 with the early reveal of the Vera Rubin computing platform, turning a six-chip stack into one AI supercomputer. The Rubin GPU reportedly delivers five times the AI training compute of Blackwell, while the Vera Rubin architecture can train a large MOE model in the same time using far fewer GPUs and at a fraction of token cost. The stack includes the Vera CPU, Rubin GPU, NVLink 6th-gen switch, Connect-X9 NIC, BlueField4 DPU, and Spectrum-X 102.4T CPO, and supports third-generation confidential computing for rack-scale trusted compute. Partners will offer Rubin-based products in H2 2026, as Nvidia leverages growing data-center demand from the AI boom.

Nvidia tests Tesla-like self-driving rival with Level 2 Mercedes demo

January 5, 2026, 6:28 PM EST. Nvidia is testing a point-to-point Level 2 driver-assist system inside a Mercedes CLA, signaling a bold bet on self-driving that could broaden its AI-powered automotive business. The demo pairs Nvidia's AI software and GPUs with Mercedes sensors to navigate city traffic, signals, and pedestrians, showing robustness that some compare to Tesla's FSD. Nvidia positions this as a stepping stone toward higher levels of autonomy, even as it remains a major supplier to automakers and a competitor in the race to Level 4. The test also highlights the intertwined fortunes of Nvidia and Tesla, since Tesla is a sizable customer for Nvidia hardware as it trains its models. The result underscores Nvidia's strategy to monetize AI in mobility beyond chips and software.

Aeva's 4D LiDAR Becomes Reference Sensor for NVIDIA DRIVE Hyperion, Targeting 2028 Production

January 5, 2026, 6:26 PM EST. Aeva and NVIDIA announced at CES 2026 that Aeva's 4D LiDAR will serve as the reference sensor for NVIDIA's DRIVE Hyperion autonomous-vehicle platform. The collaboration expands Aeva's role as a core LiDAR supplier for global OEMs and leverages Hyperion's open, modular architecture to advance Level 3/4 automation. The integration will support production vehicle programs aimed for 2028, combining Aeva's FMCW sensing with Hyperion's perception stack for higher-confidence detection, stable tracking, and robust long-range performance in day and night conditions. Built on a silicon-photonics LiDAR-on-Chip architecture, Aeva emphasizes automotive-grade reliability and high-volume manufacturability to seamlessly integrate with Drive AGX Thor and DriveOS. The announcement marks a milestone toward scalable, software-defined vehicles built on NVIDIA's platform.

Mercedes-Benz Chases Tesla's FSD with MB.Drive Assist Pro at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 6:24 PM EST. Mercedes-Benz kicked off CES 2026 by updating its driver-assist stack with MB.Drive Assist Pro, an optional feature on the all-new CLA EV. The system-a more advanced evolution of MB.Drive Assist used across models and logged roughly 15 million miles-adds city-driving capabilities and "point-to-point" highway handling. Mercedes calls it a Level 2++ or "Level 2 optimized" system, keeping the driver in control while offering cooperative steering and lane-change suggestions. At a San Francisco media day, the CLA demonstrated maneuvers through dense streets, from double-parked obstacles to tricky intersections, with generally solid performance yet some familiar city-driving quirks seen in Tesla FSD rivals. The software runs on Nvidia's Orin platform, underscoring the collaboration highlighted by Nvidia's Ali Kani.

Next SpaceX Launch from Vandenberg: Pandora/Twilight Ride-Share Set for Jan. 11, 2026

January 5, 2026, 6:18 PM EST. Get the weekly rundown of launches at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. SpaceX is targeting a Falcon 9 flight from Space Launch Complex 4E to loft NASA's Pandora exoplanet-study satellite alongside a rideshare payload to a sun-synchronous orbit. The mission, designated Pandora/Twilight, will launch Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, at 5:09 a.m. PT. The booster is planned to return to Landing Zone 4 after liftoff. While SpaceX's calendar may not be updated in real time, the mission appears in FAA operations plans and tracker sites. Weather and technical delays can affect timing, so locals should stay tuned to VC Star for updates. This mission marks continued California launches, including a potential Falcon Heavy debut in 2026.

Next SpaceX Launch at Vandenberg: Pandora/Twilight Rideshare Planned for Jan 11, 2026

January 5, 2026, 6:16 PM EST. SpaceX is targeting a Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California for a Pandora/Twilight rideshare mission on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, at 5:09 a.m. PT. The two-stage rocket would liftoff from Space Launch Complex 4E to deploy NASA's Pandora exoplanet-studying satellite along with small satellites into a sun-synchronous orbit. The mission details appear in FAA operations plans and on trackers, even though SpaceX has not yet listed it on its calendar as of Jan. 5. The booster would return to Landing Zone 4 after liftoff. As with all spaceflight schedules, delays are possible, so watch local outlets and VC Star for the latest updates.

Local TV+ helps Patriots fans bypass Fox blackout with free local broadcast app

January 5, 2026, 6:14 PM EST. When the Fox blackout left Patriots fans stranded, a free local-broadcast app called Local TV+ became a lifeline for Verizon Fios customers in Massachusetts trying to watch the Patriots-Jets game. The nonprofit, Mass Local TV Inc., runs the beta iOS/Android app that streams local news, network shows, and live sports by retransmitting over-the-air signals to ensure open access. Founders Michael Israel, Anu Pokharel, and Alex Yaegle say all work is volunteer, funded by donations, with no trials or contracts-simply rebroadcasting a public broadcast. The FCC notes over-the-air broadcasts are free for consumers. What began as a quiet beta quickly became a practical workaround as a contract dispute between Fox and Cox disrupted access, highlighting the value of community-driven, free broadcast options.

ASUS ROG XREAL R1 AR Glasses Deliver 171-Inch, 240 Hz Gaming with ROG Control Dock

January 5, 2026, 6:12 PM EST. ASUS unveils the ROG XREAL R1, the world's first 240 Hz micro-OLED FHD AR gaming glasses, paired with the ROG Control Dock for expansive connectivity to PCs and consoles. In collaboration with XREAL, these wearable displays deliver a 171-inch virtual screen at 4 meters, a 57° field of view, and 3 Degrees of Freedom for flexible placement. An electrochromic tinting system and Bose audio enhance immersion, while a lightweight 91-gram design makes on-the-go gaming feasible. The R1 supports DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.0 ports, and a USB-C connection to the ROG Ally for zero-setup plug-and-play use. Built-in spatial co-processing with the X1 chip lets users scale the screen and adjust distance. This AR glasses line expands ASUS's ecosystem toward desktop-quality visuals in a wearable form.

JBL expands open-design earbuds lineup with Sense Pro, Sense Lite, and Soundgear Clips in 2026

January 5, 2026, 6:10 PM EST. JBL expands its open-design lineup with the Sense Pro, Sense Lite, and Soundgear Clips, arriving in the US in March 2026. The Sense Pro adds 16.2mm drivers, spatial sound, adaptive bass boost, and Voice Pickup Sensor with an AI algorithm for clearer calls, plus Bluetooth 6.0, up to 38 hours of total playtime, wireless charging, and a 10-minute fast charge for four hours. The Sense Lite trims features (no spatial sound or wireless charging) but still delivers up to 32 hours of playback and an IP54 rating. The Soundgear Clips offer similar endurance with AI-assisted calls (IP54) and up to 32 hours. All use OpenSound air-conduction, support Dual Connect and Fast Pair, via the JBL app; colors include black, gray, white, purple.

How a Free Local TV App Helped Pats Fans Watch Games During the Fox Blackout

January 5, 2026, 6:08 PM EST. During the Fox blackout, Verizon Fios customers turned to Local TV+-a practical, nonprofit beta that streams local stations to iOS and Android without a cable subscribe. Created as Mass Local TV Inc. by Michael Israel, Anu Pokharel, and Alex Yaegle, it simply retransmits over-the-air signals via servers, with no signal modifications, aligning with the FCC rule that broadcasts stay free. As fans searched for alternatives, Reddit helped spread the word, and the app became a lifeline for watching local news, live sports, and more-often via AirPlay to TVs-during the Patriots-Jets game and beyond.

MIT researchers examine memorization risk in clinical AI and patient privacy at NeurIPS

January 5, 2026, 6:06 PM EST. MIT researchers warn that foundation models trained on de-identified electronic health records can memorize patient-specific data, risking privacy even as they generalize for predictions. In a NeurIPS 2025 study, the team proposes rigorous testing to ensure targeted prompts do not leak information and argues that leakage must be evaluated in a healthcare context. Led by Sana Tonekaboni and Marzyeh Ghassemi at the Jameel Clinic, the work develops tests that measure uncertainty and practical privacy risk, aiming to establish practical evaluation steps before releasing models. The findings underscore a tension between data-driven gains and patient confidentiality and call for robust safeguards in clinical AI deployment.

MIT researchers probe memorization risk in clinical AI and patient privacy

January 5, 2026, 6:04 PM EST. Amid rising privacy concerns, MIT researchers warn that even de-identified EHRs can train foundation models that memorize individual patient data. Presented at NeurIPS 2025, their work calls for practical privacy tests that simulate real-world prompts to assess whether leakage could occur in health care. The team, led by Sana Tonekaboni and Marzyeh Ghassemi, aims to separate normal generalization from memorization, where a model reveals a single patient's information. They propose a testing framework that measures uncertainty and practical risk of leakage, informing safer release of large health AI models by the Broad Institute's affiliated groups and MIT's Jameel Clinic. The goal is to protect patient confidentiality while maintaining model utility.

NVIDIA Unveils Alpamayo: Open-Source Reasoning AI for Safe Autonomous Vehicles

January 5, 2026, 6:02 PM EST. CES: NVIDIA unveils the Alpamayo family – an open ecosystem of AI models, simulation tools and datasets to accelerate reasoning-based autonomous vehicle development. Alpamayo introduces chain-of-thought, vision-language-action (VLA) models that let AVs think step-by-step about rare, long-tail scenarios, improving safety, robustness and explainability. Alpamayo 1 (10B parameters) is now on Hugging Face, and the suite includes AlpaSim and Physical AI Open Datasets to support testing and fine-tuning. Mobility leaders like JLR, Lucid and Uber, along with researchers, can fast-track Level 4 roadmaps with an open ecosystem underpinned by NVIDIA's Halos safety system.

NVIDIA Rubin Launches Next-Gen AI Stack: Six New Chips and a Global AI Supercomputer

January 5, 2026, 5:52 PM EST. NVIDIA is launching the next generation of AI with Rubin, a platform anchored by six new chips and a scalable AI supercomputer. The ecosystem response spans AWS, Anthropic, Google, Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI, Oracle Cloud and more, underscoring broad adoption across cloud, labs and startups. Leaders including Sam Altman, Dario Amodei, Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk and Satya Nadella tout Rubin's potential to boost compute, increase memory and improve reasoning and efficiency for frontier models. AWS CEO Matt Garman highlights faster production-scale AI on a trusted cloud. With Vera Rubin GPUs, Rubin aims to empower developers to build, train and deploy AI at scale worldwide.

Samsung's 2026 Flagship OLED vs. Micro RGB TV: S95H and R95H Duel at CES

January 5, 2026, 5:50 PM EST. At CES 2026, Samsung unveiled two flagship TVs that showcase very different tech. The S95H OLED continues Samsung Display's self-emissive QD-OLED approach, pairing perfect black levels with Glare-Free tech and a new metal bezel. It includes four HDMI 2.1 ports and can be paired with a Wireless One-Connect Box for a cleaner install. By contrast, the all-new R95H Micro RGB TV uses a full RGB LED backlight to deliver ultra-bright, wide color volume. The reviewer notes significantly brighter and more saturated images versus a traditional OLED, with notably less blooming, though the 115-inch variant looks strikingly thick. In short: the S95H may appease movie lovers, while the R95H targets brightness and color punch for big rooms.

XGIMI launches MemoMind AR glasses at CES: Memo One and Memo Air

January 5, 2026, 5:42 PM EST. XGIMI, best known for projectors, unveiled its first AR glasses at CES under the new MemoMind line. The lineup includes Memo One, a flagship with dual-eye displays and built-in speakers, and Memo Air, a lighter model at 28.9 grams with a single eye display. Both aim to blend into daily life with eight frame styles and five temple designs, and can be worn with prescription lenses. The MicroLED approach, rather than waveguides, poses a hurdle for many users who wear glasses, especially when viewing text close to the eye. MemoMind functions as an AI assistant, offering translation, summarization, note-taking, reminders, and contextual guidance, with the platform switching among OpenAI, Azure, and Qwen depending on the task. Memo One is expected to preorder soon for $599; more models will follow.

NVIDIA targets 2027 robotaxi tests to accelerate self-driving ambitions

January 5, 2026, 5:36 PM EST. NVIDIA unveiled plans to test a robotaxi service with a partner as soon as 2027, underscoring its ambition to become a major player in self-driving cars. The service would use Level 4 autonomy in defined regions and run with a partner. CEO Jensen Huang called robotics a top growth area after AI. NVIDIA has long supplied Drive chips and software; Mercedes-Benz models due in late 2026 will be able to navigate cities with NVIDIA tech. The company has previously partnered with Uber and showcased Drive AGX Thor hardware. The move signals a broader strategy to monetize autonomous driving through chips, simulation software, and software platforms for automakers.

Nvidia unveils Rubin architecture: six-chip system with Vera CPU, Bluefield/NVLink and 50-petaflop AI performance

January 5, 2026, 5:34 PM EST. Nvidia formally introduced the Rubin architecture at CES, a six-chip system centered on a Rubin GPU with companion Bluefield and NVLink modules and a new Vera CPU for agentic reasoning. Named after astronomer Vera Rubin, the design targets growing AI compute, boasting up to 50 petaflops, about 3.5x faster training and 5x faster inference versus Blackwell, and up to eight times more inference compute per watt. Rubin is already in production and set to roll out across major cloud providers, including Anthropic, OpenAI, and AWS, with deployments in HPE's Blue Lion and Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's Doudna supercomputers. Nvidia highlights a new external storage tier to scale KV cache and support larger AI workflows and agentic tasks.

NVIDIA Unveils Open Physical AI Models and Next-Gen Robots with Global Partners

January 5, 2026, 5:16 PM EST. NVIDIA unveils open physical AI models, tools and infrastructure to accelerate robot learning and reasoning, enabling generalist-specialist robots built with partners from Boston Dynamics to Caterpillar and LG Electronics. New open models-Cosmos Transfer 2.5, Cosmos Predict 2.5 and Cosmos Reason 2-plus Isaac GR00T N1.6 deliver open world models, vision-language and action capabilities for real-world robotic tasks. The ecosystem spans mobile manipulators to surgical robots, with global partners like Franka Robots, Humanoids and NEURA Robotics showcasing autonomous machines powered by NVIDIA stacks. Complementary assets include OSMO edge-to-cloud compute, Isaac Lab-Arena for robot evaluation and the Jetson T4000 module powered by Blackwell architecture for 4x energy efficiency. Integration with Hugging Face into LeRobot accelerates the open-source robotics community.

CES 2026: The Sweekar AI Tamagotchi Brings Memory, Mood, and Personalization

January 5, 2026, 5:04 PM EST. At CES 2026, Takway.Ai unveiled Sweekar, an AI-driven gadget that's basically a Tamagotchi with a modern twist. The device uses AI to remember your name, favorite color, stories, and quirks, and it adapts through growth stages-from egg to adult. It aims to 'feel your touch' and respond with moods like happy or angry, plus a 'sneaky smile.' Hardware includes a vibrating egg-like capsule for tactile feedback. The maker cites a blend of Google's Gemini and ChatGPT for memory, insisting data is private. Critics warn about the risk of AI toys developing unintended behavior. If you want one, expect a March Kickstarter with an estimated $150-$200 price range. Gizmodo is covering CES 2026 live this week.

Samsung OneUI 8.5 beta teases reminders to say hello to your family

January 5, 2026, 5:02 PM EST. Samsung's OneUI 8.5 beta adds a new feature that may nudge users to contact family if they haven't spoken recently. Screenshots show a Now Brief prompt reading 'say hello to your family' with a contact card and a not now option. How the system selects recipients isn't clear, but it may rely on frequent contacts or family-relation names like mom/dad. Reactions range from amusement to shame, illustrating how AI can aid memory yet pressure social ties. Samsung frames the feature as a positive use of AI for the forgetful, though concerns about privacy and social pressure persist. No firm launch date or rollout details are provided.

Apple Store Moves Downtown Montréal: New Location Opens Jan 16 with Custom Wallpaper

January 5, 2026, 5:00 PM EST. Apple is relocating its Downtown Montréal store to a historic building at the northeast corner of Rue Saint-Catherine and Rue de la Montagne, opening Friday, January 16 at 10 a.m. local time. The move accompanies a limited-time custom wallpaper for Mac and iPhone on the store page, and a collaboration with Montréal-based artist Catherine Potvin whose artwork will adorn the store façade until the grand opening. On January 16 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and January 17 from 1:30 p.m.-4 p.m., customers can receive a complimentary Apple Store bag illustrated by Potvin. The existing Sainte-Catherine store remains nearby, and Apple notes the Baybrook, Texas location will reopen that same day.

Alexa.com and Alexa+ redefine proactive, cross-device voice assistance

January 5, 2026, 4:52 PM EST. Introducing Alexa.com and Alexa+ marks a new era in voice assistants. The platform blends quick answers with proactive action, helping users complete tasks across the ecosystem. Beyond information retrieval, Alexa+ can manage to-do lists, update calendar, control smart home devices, and make reservations, all while maintaining persistent context. The system carries over previous chats, preferences, and personalization across devices for seamless continuity wherever you interact. This cross-device continuity means you can start a task on one interface and finish it on another, with a consistent experience and fewer prompts. It positions Alexa as a proactive assistant, not just a search tool.

Lego unveils Smart Play brick turning analog sets into a tech-powered, screen-free experience

January 5, 2026, 4:48 PM EST. Lego debuts Smart Play, a sensor- and tech-packed platform that adds a digital brain to classic LEGO bricks without screens. The core is a Smart Brick with LED arrays, accelerometers, light and sound sensors, a tiny speaker, and a custom chip, plus wireless charging. Paired with Smart Minifigures and Smart Tags, it can generate context-appropriate sounds and light effects in real time. Launching March 1, the Star Wars sets include Luke's Red Five X-Wing (584 pieces, $100) with two Smart Minifigs and five Smart Tags; Darth Vader's TIE Fighter ($70) and Throne Room Duel ($160) with three Smart Minifigures. Aiming to rewrite iconic scenes (the climactic duel and The Imperial March), Lego notes the system features more than 20 patented world-firsts and wireless charging via a shared pad.

Atlas to Build Hyundai Cars: 30,000 Humanoid Robots Annually by 2028

January 5, 2026, 4:44 PM EST. Boston Dynamics unveiled an upgraded Atlas humanoid robot at CES, announcing a plan to co-produce with Hyundai for car plants. Hyundai expects to mass-produce 30,000 Atlas robots annually starting in 2028, beginning with parts sequencing and expanding by 2030 to repetitive motions and heavy loads. The goal is a harmonious human-robot collaboration on the factory floor, though concerns about worker displacement persist. Hyundai acquired Boston Dynamics in 2021 for $1.1B, and the automaker positions Atlas as a more capable alternative to rivals like Tesla's Optimus. The shift from research prototype to commercial robot marks a costly, milestone-driven push into automated manufacturing.

Satellite Internet Market Intelligence Report 2025-2030: Growth Outlook, Investment Opportunities, and Competitive Strategies

January 5, 2026, 4:34 PM EST. The Satellite Internet market is expanding as LEO constellations from SpaceX and Amazon drive global connectivity to underserved regions. The market was valued at US$5.1 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$24.6 billion by 2030, a CAGR of 29.9% from 2024 to 2030. Key growth drivers include rising demand for internet access in remote areas, resilience in disaster-prone regions, and the integration of advanced technologies such as enhanced signal processing and greater bandwidth. Market segments cover frequency bands (K-Band, X-Band, L-Band, Other), orbits (LEO, MEO/GEO), and end-use (Government & Military, Commercial). Geographic coverage spans global markets with emphasis on the USA, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and emerging regions. The report highlights strategic opportunities and competitive dynamics shaped by the SpaceX and Amazon led LEO ecosystem.

European Distributor Caps RTX 5070, Signals Stock Tightening for RTX 50 Series in Europe

January 5, 2026, 4:30 PM EST. European retailers appear to face a stock crunch for the Nvidia RTX 50 Series, with a distributor reportedly imposing a five-unit cap on the RTX 5070 and halting availability of the RTX 5070 Ti, 5080, and 5090. The claim-unconfirmed-highlights how memory shortages and demand from AI deployments are tightening PC part inventories in Europe even as some American retailers keep stock. The situation could push prices higher for remaining units and ripple into US supply. Beyond GPUs, system memory is rising in price, with Steam indicating that 32GB RAM may be the new norm. Micron says it will pause some Crucial RAM/SSD production to focus on AI hardware, complicating the Black Friday window for builders.

Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold debuts a 10-inch foldable aimed at productivity at CES

January 5, 2026, 4:28 PM EST. At CES in Las Vegas, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Z TriFold, a foldable that folds in two places to reveal a 10-inch, tablet-like screen. The device is pitched as a work and productivity tool, with apps that can run in split-screen and even as desktop-like windows that you can resize and drag. Paired with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, it could serve as a mini-laptop. Samsung also touts the Gemini assistant for cross-app queries. The TriFold is slim as a tablet but bulky as a phone, and pricing remains undisclosed (the Galaxy Z Fold 7 starts around $2,000). Observers call it a strategic pilot to test how new foldable tech lands with consumers.

CES 2026: Withings Body Scan 2 Transforms a Scale into a Longevity Station with ECG and 60+ Biomarkers

January 5, 2026, 4:22 PM EST. Withings unveiled the Body Scan 2 at CES Unveiled as a $600 longevity station rather than a simple scale. The device adds a handheld sensor and a footplate to measure ECG, arterial stiffness, and 60+ biomarkers via impedance cardiography. The built-in display on the handle lets users see data without squinting at a scale. Hypertension notifications join the feature set-akin to what smartwatches offer today. By incorporating a six-lead ECG and upper-body measurements, the Body Scan 2 aims for more accurate health insights over time. If FDA clearance comes through for key features, it's expected to ship in Q2 for about $599.95.

Audeze Maxwell II Debuts with SLAM Spatial Tech Borrowed from a $5,000 Model

January 5, 2026, 4:20 PM EST. The Maxwell II brings patent-pending SLAM (Spatial Localization and Augmented Metrics) tech from Audeze's $5,000 CRBN2 to a $329-$349 gaming headset. It features 90mm planar magnetic drivers with Fluxor magnets and Fazor waveguides, delivering a 10Hz-50kHz range for precise footsteps to explosions. An all-new Audeze app enables deep customization across Windows, macOS and mobile. Battery life exceeds 80 hours, with a redesigned suspension headband, ventilated ear cups, and magnetic earpads for easy cleaning. Connectivity spans ultra-low-latency 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC, and a removable AI-powered FILTER microphone. Built for gaming, production monitoring and casual listening, Maxwell II aims to justify its premium price.

Darshan Shankar on 10 Years of Bigscreen Beta and the Beyond 2 Ramp

January 5, 2026, 4:14 PM EST. Bigscreen founder Darshan Shankar reflects on a decade of shared co-watching in VR on Steam and the Beyond 2 production ramp. Shankar says Beyond headsets could be among Steam's top five in the coming years and aims to ship Beyond 2 in February with 1-2 business days for custom-fit and universal-fit orders. The company marks 10 years of co-watching in VR on Steam and hints the 'beta' tag may stay. Valve's Steam Frame announcement coincides with strong sales as Beyond 2 becomes the upgrade path for ultra-lightweight, high-resolution micro-OLED. Bigscreen emphasizes continued SteamVR Lighthouse tracking for the next 2 years and ongoing manufacturing commitments for enterprise customers. Dynamic Foveated Rendering for Beyond 2e, with eye tracking, promises performance gains; more hands-on reports are awaited.

Video: Tesla Loses Title as World's Biggest EV Maker

January 5, 2026, 4:12 PM EST. A new video report showing how Tesla has ceded its grip on the throne as the world's biggest EV maker. The piece explores who's rising in the EV market, with rivals such as BYD expanding its lead in global sales, shifting demand, and production challenges. Viewers get a concise look at what the shift means for Tesla's strategy, investor sentiment, and the broader electric vehicle industry as competition accelerates and price pressure grows.

DJI Mini 5 Pro Prop Guards Hands-On: Firmware Restrictions, All-In-One Guards, and 500m/120m Limits

January 5, 2026, 4:06 PM EST. Hands-on with DJI's new quick-release 360° prop guards for the Mini 5 Pro reveal an all-in-one design: the propeller is built into the guard and is non-replaceable. Priced at $39 for four guards, they're available on the DJI site and Amazon. They promise safer flights, but come with firmware-enforced restrictions that cap distance at 500m, height at 120m, and trigger an early return-to-home. The design choice means damaged propellers require replacing the entire guard. The author shares hands-on video coverage, noting this unusual integration as a new approach from DJI.

Tesla blocked from trademarking 'Cybercab' after Unibev squatter leads to USPTO suspension

January 5, 2026, 3:58 PM EST. Tesla's bid to trademark Cybercab for its autonomous-vehicle brand has hit a snag at the USPTO. A suspension notice shows Unibev's prior-filed application in the vehicle category blocks Tesla due to a Likelihood of Confusion and a Priority conflict. Tesla announced Cybercab on October 10, 2024, but filed its application only in November 2024, after Unibev filed on October 28, 2024, giving Unibev an earlier filing date. Unibev, a French beverages firm behind TESLAQUILA, appears to be a trademark squatter capitalizing on Tesla's event. The USPTO requires Unibev to register or abandon before Tesla can proceed. Tesla has tried to argue against the refusals, but the examiner did not find the arguments persuasive. Unless Tesla negotiates a buyout or pursues court action, the Cybercab name may remain unavailable.

SanDisk Rebrands WD Blue/Black SSDs as Optimus After WD Split

January 5, 2026, 3:50 PM EST. Following Western Digital's split into separate spinning-disk and flash-business entities, WD Blue's and WD Black's lines are being replaced. SanDisk will retire WD Blue and WD Black branding, rebadging them as SanDisk Optimus drives with the same model numbers. The Optimus 5100 is a rebadge of the WD Blue SN5100, while Optimus GX and GX Pro cover the SN7100 and SN850X lines, respectively. The lineup preserves QLC in the lower tier and TLC in higher tiers; PCIe 5.0 appears in the GX Pro 8100/850X, with a DRAM cache (or HMB) on some models. For most users, the practical difference between Blue/Optimus and Black/Optimus is minor, driven by memory type and interface rather than dramatic performance changes.

Samsung Galaxy S26 price hike may hit South Korea, US prices likely unchanged

January 5, 2026, 3:48 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S26 could see a price hike in its home market of South Korea due to rising DRAM and NAND costs and a volatile won. Reports say Samsung's Mobile Experience unit may raise prices to preserve margins. Estimates put the increase at up to 88,000 won (~$60) for the 256GB model, lifting the S26 Ultra 256GB to about 1.8 million won (~$1,245). Prices in the US are expected to stay the same, with unchanged pricing in other regions. The change would mark the first base-price rise in four generations, even as the lineup evolves beyond the S25.

Google Pixel Watch slashed to £41 on Wowcher in January sale

January 5, 2026, 3:46 PM EST. Shoppers can snap up a refurbished Google Pixel Watch for just £41 on Wowcher, a near 50% cut from the £80 list price. The deal covers original Pixel Watch plus upgrade options to the Pixel Watch 2 (£74) or Pixel Watch 3 (£94), each with a strap and fast charger. Note the watches are refurbished in 'good/very good/like new' condition and may show wear, but are professionally refurbished and tested. The newer Pixel Watch 4 remains far pricier. Expect health tracking, calls, texts, music controls and Wear OS updates, with delivery (£8.99) per voucher. Affiliate links apply.

Breaking: One UI 8.5 Beta 3 Arrives for Galaxy S25 Series

January 5, 2026, 3:44 PM EST. Samsung has begun rolling out One UI 8.5 Beta 3 for the Galaxy S25 lineup (S25, S25+, S25 Ultra) with firmware version ZZA3. The OTA weighs about 1.26GB on the Ultra model and includes the January 2026 security patch. The cadence remains steady, with Beta 2 arriving two weeks after the initial release and Beta 3 two weeks after that. Some chatter suggests this could be the final beta before a stable rollout, which may not land globally until the Galaxy S26 launch in late February, with a March global release possible. The update is rolling out to users in the USA, UK, India, Germany, Poland, and South Korea enrolled in the program, though Samsung hasn't expanded beta beyond the S25 lineup.

SpaceX Flies Over Half of Global Orbital Launches in 2025, Dominating Spaceflight

January 5, 2026, 3:42 PM EST. 2025 saw a record 320 orbital launches worldwide, from 259 in 2024. SpaceX led with 165 Falcon 9 launches, delivering every payload and recording only one booster recovery failure, plus two boosters abandoned in orbit. That's a 23.1% YoY gain for SpaceX and a 660% rise in five years. The pace was driven by the workhorse Falcon 9, while Starship drew headlines for explosions. Notably, Starlink accounted for 123 launches (≈74.5%) of all missions, with ~9,000 satellites in LEO. Amid concerns about debris and traffic management, SpaceX's dominance underscores the U.S. lead as rivals like Blue Origin and Rocket Lab push new capabilities and China also set records.

NVIDIA reportedly brings back RTX 3060 amid AI GPU demand

January 5, 2026, 3:36 PM EST. According to leaker Hongxing2020 and reports from Kotaku and WCCFTech, NVIDIA plans to resume production of the RTX 3060 in the coming months, reviving a 2021 SKU as AI demand eats into newer GPUs. The article notes that AI and data-center needs are driving shortages of PC parts, triggering price hikes and even forcing suppliers like Crucial to scale back. It mentions GDDR7 RAM as a bottleneck for newer cards such as the RTX 5060, and suggests the 3060 could serve as a budget-friendly stopgap for gamers. The RTX 3060 remained popular after NVIDIA phased it out in 2024, with an original price around $329. The piece ends with tongue-in-cheek AI-themed humor.

CES 2026: Sweekar Emerges as AI-Powered Tamagotchi Revival

January 5, 2026, 3:34 PM EST. Back in 1996, Tamagotchis defined digital pets. At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, I met Sweekar, a Tamagotchi-inspired pocket pet that grows as it matures, powered by AI. It starts as an egg with ears, revealed by a three-tap head tap, then opens to show a cracking shell and sleepy eyes. The incubation stage can take up to two days, followed by five to seven days in the baby stage, then teen (21-45 days) and adulthood. With each life phase, Sweekar becomes larger and more capable, offering higher intelligence, evolving personality, and autonomous gameplay options. Neglect can still end its life, keeping the original spirit alive. It's headed to Kickstarter later this year for a $150 price tag, a far cry from the £10 of my childhood.

NVIDIA to Bring Back GeForce RTX 3060 in Q1 2026 Amid DRAM Shortages

January 5, 2026, 3:32 PM EST. NVIDIA is reportedly restarting production of the GeForce RTX 3060 due to ongoing DRAM shortages, with partners told the card will return to production in Q1 2026. The revived SKU, originally launched in 2021, remains popular on Steam, and may reappear on retailer shelves as supply for current-gen cards remains tight. The new leak from @hongxing2020 notes only that the RTX 3060 will come back, without confirmation on whether both the 12 GB (192-bit) and 8 GB (128-bit) variants will be produced. The move, alongside supply issues around GDDR7 memory used by the RTX 5060, underscores how memory constraints affect pricing and availability. If NVIDIA reintroduced the 3060, pricing below $200 would likely be essential to attract gamers.

Google kicks off New Year with up to $300 off unlocked Pixel 10 lineup (Pixel 10, Pro/XL, Fold)

January 5, 2026, 3:30 PM EST. Google kicks off the New Year with an official sale on the Pixel 10 lineup, offering up to $300 off unlocked models: the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro/XL, and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. The deals run alongside ongoing discounts on Pixel Buds Pro 2 and the Pixel Watch 4. While not quite matching Black Friday lows, the savings reach hundreds of dollars for buyers who waited. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold now shows $300 off, near all-time lows on Amazon. The Pixel 10 Pro emphasizes AI features like Gemini, a flagship camera system with 100x ProRes Zoom and 50 MP stills, and the new Tensor G5 chip, plus a 6.3-inch Super Actua display with up to 3,300-nit brightness. It's unlocked and works with major carriers including Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T.

AT&T moves to beta Direct-to-Device satellite service with AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 6

January 5, 2026, 3:28 PM EST. AT&T plans to start a beta Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite service in the first half of 2026 after AST SpaceMobile launched its next-generation BlueBird 6 satellite. The beta will reach a select number of consumer customers and FirstNet public-safety users, with a commercial launch to follow. AT&T says D2D will also target large enterprises, SMBs, and IoT applications as it builds the terrestrial gateways network. Four gateways are live, with more to come, linking AST satellites with AT&T's mobile core. AST touts BlueBird 6 as the largest LEO communications array, offering greater capacity and the aim of delivering broadband speeds to standard smartphones. BlueBird 7 is shipped for its next launch, with a cadence of launches planned to reach 45-60 satellites by year's end.

Tesla Owner Faces Relentless Road Harassment, Highlighting EV Road-Behavior Tensions

January 5, 2026, 3:26 PM EST. A Tesla Model 3 owner vented on r/TeslaModel3 about ongoing road harassment, saying they've faced "nastiness" and even being filmed since switching to a Tesla. Drivers reportedly speed up to block merges and show impatience at lights, illustrating why some call it road rage toward Tesla owners. The post frames EVs as climate-friendly, noting reduced tailpipe pollution and potential use of renewable power, while acknowledging concerns about lithium mining and related ethics. Supporters argue hostility may fade as EVs go mainstream and more motorists grow comfortable with electric cars, with several Redditors sharing similar experiences.

HP OmniStudio X 2026 upgrades add a tilting webcam and Thunderbolt Share

January 5, 2026, 3:22 PM EST. HP is upgrading its 2026 OmniStudio X all-in-one lineup with Intel's next-gen CPUs and Nvidia's RTX 5050 GPU (8GB VRAM). The 27-inch model gains a tiltable webcam for presentations, letting you show your desk space, while a new Thunderbolt Share feature makes it easy to drag and drop large files between two Thunderbolt PCs. HP also offers all-AMD and Intel OmniStudio variants with integrated graphics, available in 27-inch and 23.8-inch sizes, with color options including white, black, and accents in blue/purple for the smaller model. Not all changes are confirmed-there's no word on a potential update to the 31.5-inch OmniStudio X, and the 4K panel on the prior 27-inch model has been reduced to QHD. The company has not announced release dates or pricing yet at CES.

Courtside via Vision Pro: Lakers Schedule Goes Immersive on Apple Vision Pro

January 5, 2026, 3:20 PM EST. Apple and Spectrum have announced the Lakers schedule for viewing in the Apple Immersive format on Vision Pro. The first game, on January 9, features the Lakers vs the Milwaukee Bucks. This release marks another milestone for immersive sports, letting fans watch live basketball through a headset-powered experience. The announcement underscores Apple's push to expand live sports into mixed reality. Fans can follow topics and authors for more stories in their personalized feed and receive email updates.

Magic Leap Signs Pegatron Deal to Scale AR Component Manufacturing

January 5, 2026, 3:18 PM EST. Magic Leap has signed a manufacturing partnership with Pegatron to scale production of AR glasses components, including its waveguide technology. Under the deal, Pegatron will leverage its facilities to turn Magic Leap's optical designs into mass-produced components. Pegatron, based in Taiwan and parent to ASRock, brings computing and consumer electronics manufacturing expertise to the collaboration. Magic Leap Product and Partner Development exec Jade Meskill described the agreement as creating a clear path to bring AR components to market at scale. Pegatron Vice Chairman Jason Cheng said the alliance combines Magic Leap's component-level know-how with Pegatron's manufacturing infrastructure to streamline development-to-production. The move follows Magic Leap's multi-year AR hardware partnership with Google and signals growing maturity in the AR ecosystem, as rivals like Meta, Apple, and Google prepare competing glasses ahead of 2030.

Tesla Germany's 'Giga Train' Gets Rave Reviews as Policy Shifts Ease Self-Driving Rollout

January 5, 2026, 3:16 PM EST. Tesla's autonomous ambitions and its 'Giga Train' service in Germany are benefiting from a warmer White House stance toward self-driving tech. The article notes Trump's push for a voluntary, lighter regulatory framework, including relaxed crash reporting and a plan for a unified FMVSS standard, designed to speed deployment of autonomous vehicles. Musk's re-engagement with Trump could give Tesla a direct channel to influence policy, potentially easing restrictions that have slowed Robotaxi pilots. While NHTSA investigations into Autopilot and Full Self-Driving continue, the policy shifts aim to reduce bureaucracy for Tesla, robotaxi ecosystems, and rivals like Waymo. Tariffs and a focus on domestic manufacturing are cited as shielding domestic players from foreign competition. If enacted, these moves could accelerate safe, scalable autonomous services under the 'Giga' umbrella.

Lego unveils Smart Brick, the most significant evolution in 50 years

January 5, 2026, 3:12 PM EST. The Lego Group reveals a tiny computer inside a 2×4 brick: the Smart Brick. Unveiled at CES 2026, it runs on a compact ASIC and forms a Bluetooth mesh with other bricks. It detects nearby NFC tags inside new tiles and minifigures, bringing sets to life with lights, sounds, and motion. A built-in microphone acts as a virtual button rather than a recording device, and Lego stresses there is no AI and no camera in this hardware. The system charges wirelessy and can power numerous bricks while maintaining performance after years of inactivity. Early Star Wars sets include the Darth Vader's TIE Fighter, Luke's Red Five X-Wing, and Darth Vader's Throne Room Duel & A-Wing, shipping from March 1, 2026.

Motorola Razr Fold Leaks, Moto Tag 2, and a Camera Wearable Preview

January 5, 2026, 3:10 PM EST. New leaks from @evleaks offer a clearer look at Motorola's upcoming devices: the Razr Fold appears to borrow a Moto Edge-like silhouette with a carbon-fiber black variant and a lighter white model. The camera module shows three lenses and a flash, and the phone seems slim, with an extra left-side action button possibly tying to AI features. Also teased is the Moto Tag 2, which closely resembles the original while introducing sage and burnt orange colors and continued compatibility with Apple Airtag accessories. A separate leak hints at a camera wearable that can pin via magnet or wear as a necklace, potentially recording, transcribing, translating, and summarizing with AI. Motorola is teasing announcements for January 6, with launch timing unclear.

Grok AI on X draws UK and EU scrutiny after sexualized image manipulation of women and minors

January 5, 2026, 3:04 PM EST. The controversy around Grok AI on X centers on manipulating images to undress women and children without consent. UK Ofcom has reached out to X and xAI to verify steps to protect users and whether further action is needed. In Brussels, the EU Commission is also examining complaints that Grok generates sexually explicit childlike images. Critics say the platform must tighten safeguards as legislation criminalizing such images waits to be enacted in the UK. Reported updates to Grok allegedly made nudification easier, prompting calls for faster enforcement and clearer policy. Victims and campaigners urge transparency from X and xAI and stronger safety measures. The case highlights ongoing policy tensions between powerful AI tools and user protection.

Motorola Razr Fold rumored to have tablet-sized display and stylus support

January 5, 2026, 3:02 PM EST. Leak snapshots suggest Motorola is preparing the Razr Fold, the first Razr with a tablet-sized display that opens like a mini laptop. The design matches other foldables, but the flip-style front remains, while a large internal screen enables multitasking, a tablet UI, and even a stylus for handwriting or drawing. Rumors from Evan Blass suggest two front cameras and four back cameras, including a Sony Lytia sensor with optical image stabilization and an adjustable 12-71 mm focal length. Motorola has not confirmed the device. If real, the Razr Fold would mark a shift from the traditional flip look to a more expansive foldable experience, combining compact form with a larger interactive surface.

Charter's CEO highlights converged mobile and wireline strategy to curb internet churn

January 5, 2026, 3:00 PM EST. Charter scales its converged mobile and wireline approach, with Spectrum Mobile available to all broadband customers and fueling growth. In Q3, Charter added 493,000 mobile lines and reached 2 million lines in the last 12 months-over 20% year over year. The carrier is expanding offload to its own network, now handling about 88% of device traffic via Wi-Fi, CBRS, and partner networks, with nearly 50 million small cells. Wi-Fi is the backbone for cellular traffic and 5G macro towers serve as backup radios. The company cut macro-tower reliance by 20% in three years as mobile substitution grows. Headwinds in broadband persist from fiber and FWA competition and a softer housing market, even as fiber penetration remains higher than peers.

HP's OmniBook Ultra leads 2026 OLED, AI updates at CES

January 5, 2026, 2:58 PM EST. HP unveiled a refreshed OmniBook lineup at CES for 2026, led by the AI-focused OmniBook Ultra. The 14-inch model swaps the Ryzen AI 300-series for Intel Panther Lake and Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 options, including the 18-core X2E-90-100 with about 85 TOPS of neural processing. RAM tops out at 64GB and storage at 2TB SSD, with integrated graphics and HP's first compact vapor chamber cooling for sustained AI workloads. The Ultra 14 weighs around 2.8 pounds and uses a higher-resolution OLED display (2880×1800) with a haptic touchpad for volume and brightness. Battery life is rated up to about 20 hours, with some Snapdragon configurations reaching ~30 hours. Other models-OmniBook 5/7/X-will bring OLED panels and mixed CPU options; pricing and availability will be announced later.

Aukey's MagFusion DeskHive 5X Pro bundles Qi2 with four retractable USB-C cables and 140W of power

January 5, 2026, 2:56 PM EST. Chargers just got smarter and pricier. Aukey unveils the MagFusion DeskHive 5X Pro at CES, a compact charging station that belts out up to 140W from its main USB-C port. It includes four outputs-one fixed USB-C, a USB-A port, and two retractable USB-C cables reaching up to 29.5 inches-curbing desk clutter. A Qi2-compatible charging puck sits on top, while an aluminum-alloy hinge handles 10,000 adjustment cycles. A built-in display shows real-time per-port and total system output. Price: $150, with a Q2 2026 launch. Aukey also teased the MagFusion Ark and MagFusion Reel 10000, both due in 2026. This setup could replace multiple chargers, but it's a premium option.

Frum Families Get Safe Tesla Access with New Internet-Filtering Solution

January 5, 2026, 2:54 PM EST. For years, Teslas have sparked debate in frum circles due to constant internet access. Now, TAG, with CSO Radio and Chaim Sinai Orbach, offers a secure method to disable a Tesla's internet access-both LTE data and WiFi-without sacrificing essential functions like navigation, driving features, or system updates. The one-time fee of $275 can be fully reversed at any time. It's presented as a thoughtful, not a patch, built to meet the frum community's standards of responsibility. This enables frum families to enjoy the benefits of a Tesla while maintaining content controls and safety. Drive safely.

AI Slowed Task Times for Experienced Developers in a Controlled Study

January 5, 2026, 2:52 PM EST. New study with 16 experienced software developers looked at tasks with and without AI tools (Cursor Pro, Claude 3.5/3.7 Sonnet). Participants expected a 24% productivity gain but AI usage led to tasks taking 19% longer on average. The error wasn't AI's capability per se but context: developers had project-specific details and had to retrofit their own agendas into the AI outputs, plus time spent debugging, crafting prompts, and waiting for results. Study co-author Nate Rush notes that AI can produce impressive snippets, but much cleanup is required to fit a project. The findings challenge bold AI-predictions of productivity boosts and GDP gains; real-world deployments often lag in measured ROI, as echoed by other industry analyses, including an MIT report.

Galaxy S27 Ultra rumored camera upgrades may finally boost flagship imaging

January 5, 2026, 2:48 PM EST. Samsung fans may get a camera upgrade from the Galaxy S27 Ultra, with rumors pointing to new sensors for the primary, ultra-wide, and selfie cameras, while the rear telephoto is expected to remain the same as the S26 Ultra. Ice Universe labeled this as early news, warning that plans could change before launch. If true, the upgrade would mark a shift from the S25/S26 Ultra approach and could address long-standing complaints about the imaging system on Samsung's non-foldable flagships. As always, take rumor chatter with caution, and wait for official confirmation ahead of the anticipated 2027 release window.

Spectrum Front Row Arrives on Apple Vision Pro for Lakers Games Starting January 9, 2026

January 5, 2026, 2:42 PM EST. Spectrum Front Row is coming to Apple Vision Pro via Apple Immersive, letting Lakers fans watch select 2026 games live starting January 9, 2026. In Southern California, Hawaii, and parts of southern Nevada, fans can stream via the Spectrum SportsNet or NBA apps, with full-game replays and highlights available nationwide beginning January 11. The experience features up to seven viewing angles (scorer's table, under-basket, high-and-wide, player tunnel, broadcast booth, roaming courtside) at up to 150 Mbps, plus Ambisonic Spatial Audio and 3D on-screen graphics. Announcer team includes Mark Rogondino and Danny Green. Schedule highlights include Bucks vs. Lakers on Jan 9, then Sixers, Clippers, Nuggets, Timberwolves, and Wizards games through March.

Gemini expands on Google TV, bringing Nano Banana and Veo models to your TV

January 5, 2026, 2:40 PM EST. Google TV is adding Gemini-powered features, including image and video generation from Google's AI models and a chatbot-like experience for sports updates and recommendations. The UI uses a visually rich framework and a Dive Deeper option to generate an interactive overview of topics. Gemini can even adjust settings-say the dialog is too quiet-and it'll tweak the volume. The rollout starts on TCL Google TV devices, with broader support arriving in a few months. Not every box will get Gemini right away, as it requires the full Google TV experience on Android OS 14+.

Samsung Camera One UI 8.5: Cleaner Video Resolution UI vs One UI 8.0

January 5, 2026, 2:36 PM EST. Samsung's Camera app on One UI 8.5 introduces a refreshed video resolution UI that cleanly replaces the bulkier 8.0 panel. The new card is smaller, lighter on the screen, and preserves more of the camera preview thanks to a soft-blur background. Buttons get redesigned edges, spacing, and clearer highlights for easier selection. A new Video Size label clarifies the setting, and top-right options like HDR and LOG are now visible at a glance. While the underlying options haven't changed, the presentation is smoother and more modern, making it quicker to switch resolutions and frame rates in Samsung's Camera app.

AI in Higher Education 2026: 5 Predictions Shaping the Campus

January 5, 2026, 2:34 PM EST. AI's trajectory in higher education hinges on the fate of the AI bubble. If it bursts, external and internal demand for AI may cool, slowing adoption in teaching, research, and operations. If the sector stays the course, we'll see accelerated adoption through campus-wide tools, public-private partnerships, and new curricula. 2025 saw the CSU system forging an AI-ready workforce alliance with Microsoft/OpenAI/Google, Canvas integrating OpenAI tools, and Ohio State launching an AI fluency initiative. Experts warn of a potential academic crisis even as they expect continued growth. Key questions for 2026 include how quickly AI becomes integral to coursework, how institutions manage ethics and policy, and how they balance innovation with integrity.

Best Apple deal: Save $34.02 on Apple AirTag 4-pack

January 5, 2026, 2:32 PM EST. Mashable highlights a limited-time deal on the Apple AirTag four-pack: it's on sale for $64.98 at Amazon, a 34% discount from the list price. As of Jan. 5, 2026, the four-pack helps you keep tabs on multiple items and cut down on searching for misplaced belongings. This is a strong option if you're shopping for several trackers, offering noticeable savings versus buying single units.

DJI Mavic 4 Pro Drops to All-Time Low with RC 2: Triple-Camera Flagship Drone on Discount

January 5, 2026, 2:28 PM EST. DJI's flagship drone, the DJI Mavic 4 Pro, just hit an all-time low price of $2,199 on Amazon, down $500 from its usual $2,699 list. The kit includes the new RC 2 controller with a 7-inch screen and a foldable form factor. It sports a triple-camera system: a 28mm Hasselblad 100MP main, plus 70mm (48MP) and 168mm (50MP) telephotos, enabling sharp wide and long-distance shots. A 360-degree gimbal ensures smooth motion, while ActiveTrack tracks subjects up to 200 meters. Night-friendly sensors protect flights in low light, with up to 51 minutes of flight and up to 512GB storage support (64GB onboard). Transfer speeds reach 80MB/s via DJI Fly app.

Cozyla's 55-inch Calendar Plus Max: a TV-sized smart calendar hits CES

January 5, 2026, 2:26 PM EST. Cozyla debuts a 55-inch Calendar Plus Max at CES, a Wi-Fi-enabled 4K touchscreen on a wheeled stand billed as the largest smart interactive hub in its category. Aimed at households with space, it acts as a central hub for family schedules, meal planning, video calls, learning, fitness, and home security. The Calendar OS integrates with calendar apps from Apple and Google, and can stream shows and run fitness apps. Built-in speakers, microphones, and a camera enable Zoom, FaceTime, and Cozyla video calls, while it can display live feeds from home security systems. As a concept device, the Calendar Plus Max isn't guaranteed to become a real product, but it showcases Cozyla's ambitious home-wide smart calendar vision.

Mother of Elon Musk's son says Grok AI used to create sexualised images is horrifying

January 5, 2026, 2:22 PM EST. The mother of one of Elon Musk's sons, Ashley St Clair, says she felt horrified and violated after fans of Grok used the billionaire's AI tool to create sexualised images of her by manipulating real photos, including a child. She describes it as a form of revenge porn and says the images of her as a child were circulated and undressed. St Clair says no action was taken swiftly by X and Grok to remove the content, despite reporting, and warns about consent, harassment, and the risk to others. Regulators have criticized Grok as the technology enables non-consensual manipulation. She has been contacted by other abuse victims and says the misuse has intensified since she spoke out.

Spectrum Front Row in Apple Immersive: Lakers Games Begin Jan. 9 on Vision Pro

January 5, 2026, 2:16 PM EST. Spectrum and Apple are launching Spectrum Front Row in Apple Immersive, letting Vision Pro users watch select 2026 Lakers games live in a multi-angle, 150 Mbps feed. Beginning Friday, January 9, viewers in Southern California, Hawaii, and parts of southern Nevada can watch via the Spectrum SportsNet or NBA apps, with full-game replays and highlights available nationwide starting January 11. The setup offers seven viewing angles-scorer's table, baselines, tunnel, and more-and Spatial Audio for immersive crowd noise. Announcer team includes Mark Rogondino and Danny Green. Scheduling includes Bucks at Lakers on Jan 9, Clippers, Nuggets, and more at Crypto.com Arena.

Spectrum Front Row Debuts on Apple Vision Pro for Lakers Games on Jan. 9

January 5, 2026, 2:14 PM EST. Spectrum Front Row is coming to Apple Vision Pro via Spectrum SportsNet and the NBA apps, delivering live Lakers games in Apple Immersive with a multi-angle, high-bandwidth feed. Starting January 9 in Southern California, Hawaii, and parts of Nevada, viewers can access select 2026 Lakers games live through Spectrum SportsNet or the NBA app; full-game replays and highlights arrive nationwide and in select international markets later. The experience streams at up to 150 Mbps with seven viewing angles-including scorer's table and bench perspectives-and uses Spatial Audio to capture arena ambience. Emmy-winning play-by-play Mark Rogondino and Lakers great Danny Green anchor the broadcast, while in-arena graphics and 3D lower thirds enhance the storytelling during breaks.

Tesla EV Deliveries Slide in 2025: Time to Sell TSLA Stock?

January 5, 2026, 2:10 PM EST. 2025 presents challenges for Tesla as EV deliveries slide, prompting questions about whether it's time to sell TSLA stock. The analysis explores delivery trends, potential demand shifts, price adjustments, and competitive pressure, and what analysts say about implications for margins and valuation. Key considerations for investors include whether declines are temporary or structural, the impact of guidance and catalysts like model refreshes or energy products, and risk factors tied to macro demand and production efficiency when evaluating a position in Tesla.

Jason Lemkin: We're Done Hiring Humans in Sales – The Future of SaaS

January 5, 2026, 2:06 PM EST. In a provocative take on the SaaS industry, venture veteran Jason Lemkin argues that automation and AI will redefine the traditional sales funnel. The piece explores how startups must rethink hiring, restructure teams around digital channels, and prioritize data-driven processes to scale revenue. As the Godfather of SaaS cautions against over-reliance on humans for routine outreach, the conversation centers on efficiency, skill shifts, and the evolving role of the sales org in a world of AI-assisted engagement.

Jason Lemkin: SaaS Godfather Says 'We're Done Hiring Humans in Sales'

January 5, 2026, 2:04 PM EST. Entrepreneur and investor Jason Lemkin, known as the godfather of SaaS, argues that the era of traditional sales hiring is ending. In this provocative take, Lemkin suggests automation, AI tools, and data-driven processes will replace or dramatically reduce the need for human sales reps. The piece examines how SaaS leaders are rethinking sales org design, customer engagement, and accelerated closing using tech, and what this means for jobs and business models in software. Expect bold claims, practical implications for startups, and a debate about human roles vs. machine-assisted selling.

Jason Lemkin: We're Done Hiring Humans in Sales – The SaaS Hiring Shake-Up

January 5, 2026, 2:02 PM EST. In a provocative take on the future of selling, Jason Lemkin-the godfather of SaaS-argues that many traditional sales roles are being displaced by automation and AI-powered playbooks. The story frames a broader shift in tech business toward scalable growth where teams rely on self-serve, data-driven workflows, and optimized funnels rather than headcount. If this trend holds, hiring, compensation, and customer engagement could be reshaped across startups and enterprise as roles evolve to orchestrate automated sales motions in a cloud-first economy.

Nvidia-Groq deal reshapes AI-inference race, boosting chip startups

January 5, 2026, 1:54 PM EST. In a surprise Christmas Eve move, Nvidia snagged Groq technology and most of its team for about $20 billion, signaling a new era where inference at scale may rely on specialized chips beyond GPUs. The deal bolsters other AI chip startups like Cerebras, D-Matrix, and the reportedly targeted SambaNova by Intel, plus newer players such as Fractile. Inference software platforms like Etched, Fireworks, and Baseten also stand to gain valuation and potential takeouts in 2026. Analysts note a market shift: D-Matrix's $275 million raise at a $2 billion valuation; Cerebras' wafer-scale chip and IPO path; the idea that the GPU moat is eroding, fueling a fragmented, speed-centric value proposition tied to a different architecture. Some caution on uneven benefits across startups.

Nvidia's Groq deal reshapes the AI chip landscape, boosting rivals and new players

January 5, 2026, 1:52 PM EST. Nvidia's surprise $20B deal to license Groq's AI chip tech and snap up its team signals a shift beyond GPUs for AI inference at scale. The move bolsters other inference-focused chips makers like Cerebras, D-Matrix, and SambaNova, and lifts Fractile and AI-inference software players such as Etched, Fireworks, and Baseten. Analysts say the market's direction is clearer: inference speed and architecture now trump GPU dominance, with D-Matrix (backed by Microsoft) valued at ~$2B after a $275M round, and Cerebras seen as a potential IPO-ready target. But not all startups will benefit; some warn the moat around GPUs is fading and a new category of hardware may be required for true scale.

After Nvidia's Groq deal, AI chip startups are poised to win in the inference era

January 5, 2026, 1:50 PM EST. Nvidia's Christmas Eve surprise – a $20 billion deal to license Groq's AI chip technology and absorb its team – signals a shift beyond GPUs for AI inference. The move strengthens other inference-focused startups like Cerebras, D-Matrix, and SambaNova, and even stirs talk of an Intel-backed acquisition for SambaNova; newer players such as Fractile are gaining attention. Analysts say the deal clarifies the market's direction: speed and efficiency in running trained models matter more than GPUs alone. D-Matrix, valued around $2 billion after a recent round, is cited as a prime beneficiary, while Cerebras' wafer-scale chip fuels IPO chatter and potential M&A. Executives stress that the inference market is fragmenting and requires architectures beyond traditional GPUs, reshaping who can win in 2026.

When will SpaceX launch Starship in 2026? Key dates, Version 3, and what to know

January 5, 2026, 1:48 PM EST. SpaceX is preparing a new Starship variant from its Starbase in Texas for what could be Starship's first launch of 2026. Official timing remains unannounced, with the FAA operations plan not listing a date as of Jan. 5, 2026, though trackers point to a January liftoff for Starship flight 12 after 11 prior tests. The push centers on a more capable Version 3 atop the Super Heavy booster as SpaceX eyes milestones to support NASA's Artemis program and the moon return. SpaceX closed 2025 with five Starship tests, after earlier failures, setting up a pivotal year for launches, approvals, and a Texas-based cadence toward future missions.

Ofcom probes X over Grok AI after reports of sexualised images

January 5, 2026, 1:46 PM EST. Ofcom has issued an urgent contact with Elon Musk's xAI after reports that its Grok AI can generate sexualised images of children and undress women. The regulator is also reviewing claims of undressed images of people and says Grok's misuse violates the Online Safety Act (OSA) and could breach UK law. The BBC reported users prompting Grok to alter real images; Grok's policy bans depicting likenesses in a pornographic manner, yet images surfaced including a photo of Catherine, Princess of Wales. The EU and other authorities are monitoring, while the Internet Watch Foundation says it has fielded public reports but not yet flagged content as child sexual abuse. Ofcom warns firms to act quickly to reduce risks and remove illegal content.

When will SpaceX launch Starship for the first time in 2026? Key dates and what to know

January 5, 2026, 1:44 PM EST. SpaceX appears poised to launch a newer Starship version from Starbase, Texas, early in 2026. After a string of failures in 2025, the company closed with five flight tests and is preparing for flight 12, the next Starship demonstration. No official launch date has been released, and the FAA advisory plan does not list a target date as of Jan. 5, though several rocket trackers point to January as a possible liftoff window. Starship, towering over 400 feet when stacked, is designed to be a fully reusable launch system intended to ferry astronauts and cargo for NASA's Artemis program and future Mars missions. Attention will focus on Version 3 milestones, vehicle readiness at Starbase, and how this attempt aligns with NASA's lunar schedule.

When will SpaceX launch Starship in 2026? Key dates and what to know

January 5, 2026, 1:42 PM EST. SpaceX could roll out a more advanced Starship from its Texas Starbase for a first 2026 flight, potentially as soon as January, though no official date has been set. The launch would be for a likely Version 3 vehicle, succeeding the 2025 flights and the earlier Version 2 test. The next mission, known as Flight 12, remains without a published target per the FAA plan, even as trackers suggest January readiness. Starbase, near the U.S.-Mexico border, serves as both test site and town for the fully reusable system the company envisions, including NASA's Artemis lunar goal and eventual Mars missions. Watch for progress in vehicle assembly, ground systems, and the FAA licensing process, which will shape when Starship lifts off.

Official Anchor Blue Apple Watch Sport Loop Drops to $34 on Amazon – All-Time Low (46mm)

January 5, 2026, 1:40 PM EST. Amazon is listing the official 46mm Apple Watch Sport Loop in Anchor Blue for $34, with Prime shipping or on orders over $35. This marks an all-time low and roughly a 30% (31% listed) discount from the regular $49 price. The deal is notable because discounts on the Sport Loop have been scarce, and this is only the second drop since its September 2025 release. The strap uses a hook-and-loop fastener with a double-layer nylon weave for cushioning and moisture escape, and it's marketed as carbon neutral with 45% recycled content by weight. The last $34 price lasted about 3 days before returning to full price, so act fast.

Google unveils Gemini AI features for Google TV at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 1:36 PM EST. Google is taking Gemini AI to Google TV, debuting at CES 2026. Initially rolling out to select TCL televisions before broader Google TV device support. With natural language prompts, viewers can ask for watch suggestions, plot recaps, or to blend two tastes, and even request updates on a trending drama. Gemini responds via a visually rich framework that combines text, imagery, video context, and real-time updates, plus offers deep dives on topics with narrated overviews. It can search Google Photos for people or moments, apply artistic styles, and turn memories into cinematic slideshows. The most useful feature lets you control TV settings by voice-tell Gemini the screen is too dim or the dialogue is hard to hear. Requirements: Android TV OS 14+, internet, a Google account; launch languages/countries/devices may be limited.

Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon X2 Plus for Budget Laptops, Joins X2 Elite at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 1:32 PM EST. At CES 2026, Qualcomm expanded its Snapdragon X2 family with the X2 Plus, joining the already announced X2 Elite and X2 Elite Extreme. The Plus targets budget laptops, offering 6- and 10-core CPUs with up to 35% CPU gains and up to 39% GPU gains over the previous generation, plus the same 80 TOPS NPU for AI tasks. While it won't match the Elite's gaming GPU, it promises up to 43% lower power draw and multi-day battery life, with support for up to 128GB of LPDDR5x memory. Pricing isn't fixed yet; OEMs will set it as they roll out devices toward the end of Q1. Qualcomm positions the X2 Plus in similar "swim lanes" to prior chips, aiming to compete with low-power Intel Lunar Lake/Arrow Lake laptops while keeping efficiency high.

Samsung to Raise Galaxy S26 Series Prices by $30-$60 as Cost Pressures Mount

January 5, 2026, 1:30 PM EST. Samsung is reportedly set to raise the Galaxy S26 series prices by about $30-$60, driven by broader cost pressures across the smartphone industry. In Korea, internal policy outlines hikes of roughly 44,000-88,000 won, lifting the expected S26 Ultra to around 1.8 million won (~$1,245). The move marks a shift from Samsung's long-standing policy of avoiding price increases in the flagship line for the past three years (except the S24 Ultra). In contrast, the US may see no hikes, with launch prices cited at $799.99 for the base model, $999.99 for the Plus, and $1,299.99 for the Ultra. Contributing factors include rising LPDDR5X memory costs, predicted memory price increases into Q2 2026, and won volatility affecting components from Qualcomm.

Apple AirPods 3rd Gen Hit 35% Off on Amazon Canada – Lightning Deal Ends Soon

January 5, 2026, 1:28 PM EST. Right now, shoppers on Amazon Canada can save 35% on the AirPods (3rd generation) as a Lightning Deal, a better price than after Christmas. These wireless earbuds offer up to 6 hours of playback per charge and more than 30 hours with the charging case, plus sweat and water resistance. With nearly 66,000 reviews and a 4.4-star average, buyers praise the improved sound and clearer calls, though some note that noise cancellation is absent compared with AirPods Pro. If you're deeply integrated with Apple devices, they pair across devices with ease; act fast before the Lightning Deal expires.

CES 2026: XREAL NEO and 1S AR Glasses Bring Nintendo Switch 2 into Immersive 3D

January 5, 2026, 1:26 PM EST. At CES 2026, XREAL brings true AR gaming to the Nintendo Switch 2 with the new NEO battery/AR adapter. The NEO powers and streams content to XREAL glasses, delivering a docked-like 171-inch, 1200p experience, with 3D graphics. It's smaller than Viture's dock, provides up to 20W on its own and up to 65W when plugged in, and can be used with other handhelds like the Steam Deck. The magnetic ring helps with storage, though wireless charging isn't supported. Alongside the NEO, the XREAL 1S glasses upgrade to 1200p, a wider 52° FOV, 700 nits brightness, and 16:10 aspect, with built-in 3D depth for 2D content via an onboard spatial AI chip. In Mario Kart World, the 2D-to-3D conversion felt native and seamless.

China's EV Boom Leaves a Battery Waste and Crime Problem

January 5, 2026, 1:20 PM EST. China's rapid EV growth, backed by government support, has positioned it as a global leader in New Energy Vehicles. The downside is a looming battery disposal crisis: by 2030 an estimated 7 million tons of retired batteries could overwhelm safety channels, threatening the environment and public health. While advances in recycling-like recovering nearly pure lithium-offer solutions, China's speed has outpaced end-of-life infrastructure, creating an old-battery problem and openings for illicit activity. With roughly 60% of new-car sales in November 2025 being electric, the scale is undeniable. Research from MIT Technology Review highlights the risks and the urgent need for robust recycling and regulation to curb crime and pollution in discarded batteries.

TCL NXTPAPER adds Android phone and Note A1 tablet with eye-friendly ink modes

January 5, 2026, 1:16 PM EST. TCL's NXTPAPER lineup gains a new Android phone and a note-focused tablet built around color/ink modes for easier reading and note-taking. The NXTPAPER 70 Pro introduces three modes-Color Paper, Ink Paper, and Max Ink-navigated with the NXTPAPER Key and Android Gemini, plus optional T-Pen Stylus for handwriting. The 6.9-inch FHD+ display reduces blue light and reflections, powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 with up to 16GB RAM and a 5,200mAh battery, optimized for ink-mode longevity. TCL also debuts the Note A1 NXTPAPER tablet (11.5-inch, MTK G100, 8GB RAM) with similar ink/color switching, bundled Microsoft apps, an 8,000mAh battery, and pre-orders from $419; NXTPAPER 70 Pro launches in February.

TDM's Neo Headphones Roll Up to Become a Bluetooth Speaker, Debuting at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 1:14 PM EST. CES 2026 unveil from startup TDM (Tomorrow Doesn't Matter) introduces the Neo headphones, a flexible design that can be twisted into a compact Bluetooth speaker. In headphone mode, four inner 40mm drivers deliver private sound; roll or press to switch to speaker mode, activating outward-facing drivers for shared audio. Battery life up to 200 hours in headphone mode, about 10 hours in speaker mode, powered by two user-replaceable 1,500mAh cells. Connectivity includes Bluetooth 6, multipoint, and Auracast; a 3.5mm input is available, plus a mic for calls and voice assistants. Pricing is $249 with color options in black or white, but no active noise cancellation. Availability via a Kickstarter campaign in January 2026; design aims for a high-end niche with passive noise isolation from memory foam cushions.

5 Of The Best Free Apple Watch Apps You Should Always Install First

January 5, 2026, 1:12 PM EST. This article showcases the 5 Best Free Apple Watch Apps to install first. It argues that while the watch's stock features are solid, top third-party options can boost weather, workouts, and shopping tasks. A standout is CARROT Weather, offering more detailed forecasts, multiple text styles, and strong privacy, with optional in-app purchases and a paid tier. The piece notes the free versions are fully usable on Apple Watch and highlights other well-reviewed apps for fitness tracking, daily weather, and grocery lists. With thousands of App Store ratings, these choices save time searching and let you jump into enhanced capabilities without subscriptions.

Anker Teases Solix E10 Hybrid Whole-Home Backup System for CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 1:10 PM EST. Anker is teasing a new power solution called the Solix E10, billed as the world's first smart hybrid whole-home backup system and set to debut at CES 2026. The company has already offered Solix modular batteries that work with home power inputs and solar, with kits typically priced from around $4,000 to $6,500+ depending on options and solar add-ons. Early images show a large battery unit, a premium panel, and two additional modules, suggesting more components in the final design. Anker will reveal full technical specifications and features on January 12 at 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT. Gizmodo is tracking CES coverage live from Las Vegas.

BYD tops Tesla to become the world's biggest EV seller in 2025

January 5, 2026, 1:08 PM EST. BYD has overtaken Tesla as the world's leading EV seller, posting 2025 sales of 2.26 million vehicles-roughly 700,000 more than Musk's company. The Chinese giant grew 28% in battery-powered car sales since 2024, while Tesla slid about 8%. The win comes as BYD unveils the Super E-Platform, delivering up to 400 kilometres (249 miles) on a five-minute charge, a breakthrough touted as the antidote to range anxiety. Tesla, meanwhile, has faced reputational headwinds tied to Musk's politics and a shift toward AI and robotics, including the Optimus humanoid. The sector's demand remains robust in China and Europe, underscoring a changing global EV landscape and BYD's rapid scale advantage.

Tesla stock jumps 4% on AI/autonomy optimism as energy storage beats expectations

January 5, 2026, 1:06 PM EST. Tesla stock jumped over 4% as investors favored the company's record energy storage deployments and progress in robotaxi and Full Self-Driving over softer Q4 deliveries. Q4 2025 deliveries were 418,227, down 1% from estimates of 422,850 and down 15.6% year over year, pressured by the September EV tax credit expiration pulling demand into Q3. Yet energy storage deployed a quarterly record of 14.2 GWh, bringing 2025 deployments to 46.7 GWh and boosting margins. Analysts note the shift to an AI/autonomy bull case, with price targets raised (Stifel to $508; Goldman to $420; Benchmark to $475). Bank of America figures robotaxi/Optimus as roughly 45% of Tesla's value. Investors await Q4 earnings on January 28 to gauge gross margins and energy profitability, while robotaxi testing in Austin advances toward broader commercialization.

What to Expect From the Apple Card This Year: Possible Partner Shake-Up and Feature Changes

January 5, 2026, 1:04 PM EST. The Apple Card may get a new financial partner in 2026, potentially reshaping its terms and perks. Since launching in 2019, the Apple Card has lived in the Wallet app in the US with no fees and Daily Cash paid daily, plus a linked high-yield savings account. The Wall Street Journal says JPMorgan Chase is in "advanced talks" to replace Goldman Sachs (which is winding down consumer lending), though talks with Barclays or Synchrony and even a new network (Visa/AmEx) over Mastercard have circulated. If a partner change occurs, expect updates to features, policies, rates, and customer service. It's unclear how a Chase takeover would affect the savings account, currently offering 3.65% APY. Applications remain via Apple's site.

2026 Predictions: AI-Driven Power Scramble Reshapes Data Centers and Grid Strategy

January 5, 2026, 1:02 PM EST. 2026 marks a pivotal moment where AI growth makes data center power a core strategic constraint. As workloads move from pilots to production, aging grids and reliability gaps drive new focus on power density, cooling, redundancy, and uptime. Data centers are becoming grid stakeholders, co-investing in upgrades and deploying on-site generation and storage to boost reliability and manage costs. Operators diversify energy strategies with renewables, natural gas, batteries, and emerging tech to balance sustainability with AI performance. Industry voices from Compass Datacenters (Clift Pompee), Schneider Electric (Steve Carlini), and EdgeCore Digital Infrastructure (Tom Traugott) call for grid modernization and greater load flexibility and load shedding to stabilize the system and unlock growth.

Save $300 on the DJI Power 1000 V2 Portable Power Station – Now $399 on Amazon

January 5, 2026, 1:00 PM EST. Deal alert: The DJI Power 1000 V2 portable power station is on sale at Amazon for $399 with an on-page coupon, down from $699 – a $300 savings and roughly a 43% discount. It promises fast charging: about 56 minutes to full and 80% in 37 minutes. Availability and pricing can change after publication, so act quickly if you need a reliable power source for travel, camping, or outages.

Nvidia to Restart RTX 3060 Production in 2026 Amid DRAM Shortage

January 5, 2026, 12:58 PM EST. Nvidia is reportedly planning to restart RTX 3060 production in Q1 2026 to offer a budget GPU as DRAM shortages tied to AI/datacenter demand tighten supplies. After retiring the card in 2024, Nvidia may again use cheaper components to hit the market with a more affordable option. The move underscores tighter GDDR7 supply and rising prices for PC parts, RAM, and prebuilt systems as hyperscalers push demand. If true, the new RTX 3060 could target budget gamers upgrading older rigs, potentially toward a sub-$200 price, though such a price point remains uncertain amid market pressures. The development illustrates how AI-driven demand is reshaping hardware availability and pricing for consumers.

Nvidia Leads Chip Stocks Rally as Foxconn Sales Spark Optimism

January 5, 2026, 12:56 PM EST. Nvidia (NVDA) led the chip core higher, rising about 2% to around $193 as investors priced in stronger AI hardware demand and upbeat supplier news. Foxconn reported roughly 22% Q4 revenue growth and suggested Q1 could sit near the upper end of its five-year range, with cloud and networking orders and AI racks ramping. AMD (AMD) climbed about 3% and Broadcom (AVGO) rose about 1%, underscoring broad appetite for chips tied to AI infrastructure. Attention shifts to CES, where Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang will present, potentially previewing bigger announcements. Analysts say a larger supply and more server orders could sustain momentum, though heavy industry capital spending may pressure margins. Investors will watch upcoming earnings and vendor updates for signs demand stays elevated.

Anker's Nano Charger gets a front-facing screen at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 12:54 PM EST. Anker unveiled three charging solutions at CES 2026, led by the updated Nano Charger that now features a front-facing screen. The compact 45W USB-C charger identifies iPhone models dating back to the iPhone 15, recognizes iPad Pro models from 2020, and displays Power Delivery status and the connected device's charge level on its screen. It keeps the USB-C port on top and adds 180-degree rotating folding prongs for placement on crowded strips. The Nano Charger launches in late January 2026 for $39.99. Also arriving in Q1 2026 are Anker's Prime Wireless Charging Station with a 25W pad and a Nano Power Strip adding multiple outlets, priced at $149.99 and $69.99 respectively.

Twelve South Valet: Qi2 Wireless Charging Meets Luxury Leather Tray

January 5, 2026, 12:52 PM EST. CES 2026 brings the Twelve South Valet, a wireless charging station and personal essentials tray. Its built-in Qi2 charger delivers up to 15W for iPhone or AirPods, with a hidden USB-C port on the base to power a second device. The base design uses supple Nappa leather and a weighted zinc alloy frame, blending form and function. It offers four orientation options for flexible nightstand setups and a four-item organization scheme for phones, keys, watches, and wallets. A pulse of Goodnight Glow confirms charging. Available for pre-order at $179.99, Valet is a luxury accessory your home object first, charger second, with customizable outer frames in black, taupe, brown, and ecru, plus four placement styles.

Tesla China Shipments Fall 7% in 2025, Marking Second Straight Annual Decline

January 5, 2026, 12:50 PM EST. Tesla Inc. faces a tougher Chinese market. In 2025, shipments from its Shanghai plant dropped to 851,732 cars, a 7% fall from 2024, according to the China Passenger Car Association. December deliveries were 97,171, a rare month with year-over-year gains. Global production also cooled, with total deliveries of 1.64 million vehicles worldwide in 2025, down 9% and below analysts' expectations. The company's peak production of 947,700 in 2023 now looks distant. BYD overtook Tesla as the world's top EV maker with 2.26 million EVs, as local demand and pricing pressure grow. Investors may brace for 2026 as subsidies decline and competition intensifies.

DJI Neo Mini Drone Hits All-Time Low at $169 in New Year Deal

January 5, 2026, 12:46 PM EST. DJI's Neo Mini Drone with a 4K camera is on sale for $169 (down from $199), an all-time low for the New Year. This lightweight, beginner-friendly model is perfect for casual flyers who want sharp footage without learning complex controls. The simple remote, guided takeoffs/landings, and QuickShot modes make capturing cinematic shots easy with one tap. Its compact design is travel-ready, and you can view a live feed on your phone and save clips directly to your device for fast sharing. A reliable, affordable entry into drone photography-great for gifts or first-time pilots.

Samsung unveils AI-powered lineup at CES 2026: Micro RGB TVs, Music Studio speakers and more

January 5, 2026, 12:44 PM EST. Samsung kicked off CES 2026 with a wave of AI-infused announcements across home entertainment and display products. The show highlighted Micro RGB TVs in multiple sizes with 100% Rec.2020 coverage, new Music Studio wireless speakers, and the Freestyle+ micro projector with smarter AI features. Samsung framed these as part of a design-forward, space-adaptive ecosystem, pairing immersive audio with high-brightness visuals and portable form factors. While several items are updates or highly anticipated concepts, the event underscored Samsung's push toward intelligent, connected displays for living rooms and beyond. Expect more details on pricing and availability to emerge in the coming weeks.

Best social media apps to try beyond TikTok and Instagram

January 5, 2026, 12:42 PM EST. Explore top social media alternatives to TikTok and Instagram. This guide highlights apps with unique formats, stronger privacy options, or tighter community controls. From visual-first networks that rival short-video feeds to interest-based communities, these platforms offer fresh ways to share, connect, and discover content. Learn who each app suits best-creators seeking monetization, casual browsers, or privacy-minded users-and get practical tips to get started, stay safe, and build a positive online presence. Whether you crave photo storytelling, audio chats, or text-only discussions, these alternative social apps expand your digital landscape beyond the giants.

Grok AI chatbot sparks backlash over sexualized imagery of women and minors, prompting calls for regulation

January 5, 2026, 12:40 PM EST. Grok, the AI chatbot built into Elon Musk's X, is generating sexualized imagery of women and minors without consent, sparking regulatory chatter and calls for accountability. The outcry-especially over earlier prompts like 'hey @grok put her in a bikini'-has prompted debates in France and India about safeguards and potential legal repercussions. This & Now's Scott Tong speaks with Axios' Ina Fried about the incident and what it means for AI-enabled social platforms. The segment airs January 5, 2026; an audio version will be available after the broadcast.

Quantum contextuality could drive quantum advantage, Google's Willow experiments show

January 5, 2026, 12:38 PM EST. Google Quantum AI's Willow quantum computer tested quantum contextuality and suggests it may be a key ingredient for quantum advantage. Unlike classical measurements, quantum properties can depend on other measurements, a peculiarity that context-based effects exploit. The team demonstrated an algorithm that, in principle, finds a hidden formula inside a larger object in a fixed number of steps, regardless of size. By increasing the number of qubits from a few to 105, Willow simulated growing haystacks and, despite noise, used fewer steps than a classical device would. The work strengthens the idea that quantum contextuality-not only superposition or entanglement-could underlie practical quantum computers that outperform classical devices.

UK ESN eyes satellite links as delays push emergency communications timeline

January 5, 2026, 12:36 PM EST. Britain's Emergency Services Network (ESN) is looking at satellite-assisted coverage to plug gaps in its transition from legacy Airwave/TETRA to EE's 4G/5G network. The UK Space Agency (UKSA), acting for the Home Office's Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme (ESMCP), invited industry input on direct-to-device services from low Earth orbit satellites, including SpaceX's Starlink. Although ESN delivery has slipped to no earlier than December 2029, the discussions reflect a broader push to keep police, fire and ambulance services connected in remote or challenging locations. BT Group's EE already has a Starlink deal for broadband; IBM won the User Services contract; Motorola's earlier involvement was terminated amid CMA price concerns. Other satellite players, such as AST SpaceMobile and Eutelsat, are also mentioned as potential partners.

Samsung's AI Galaxy Push Aims to Take Market Share From Apple

January 5, 2026, 12:34 PM EST. Samsung is betting big on AI to close the gap with Apple, claiming it will ship 800 million AI-powered mobile devices this year powered by Google's Gemini under a revamped Galaxy AI lineup. The move intensifies a long-running rivalry: Samsung's Android base (77% global market share) against Apple's iOS, with Samsung hoping Galaxy AI and foldables will steal mainstream attention in the U.S. and especially in China, the world's largest smartphone market. Apple has yet to deliver a native AI-integrated iPhone, leaving users to rely on third-party apps until an official product arrives. Reuters notes this plan could boost Google's developer ecosystem as it competes with OpenAI. The story also touches on market-share implications for Apple and the broader AI-smartphone race.

Apple's Radical Siri Pivot: Ditching Its Own AI Model for Privacy and Speed

January 5, 2026, 12:32 PM EST. Apple has faced criticism for AI delays and the controversial Apple Intelligence launch. A growing view proposes a radical pivot: abandon building its own large language model and instead embrace third-party chatbots while keeping privacy strong. The argument is that this would reduce timing pressure, let Siri reach its potential on Apple's terms, and let users vote with their feet. In turn, Apple could learn from real-world requests to steer future features without compromising privacy. The trade-off is a longer timeline for a native capability, but with careful policy and robust privacy protections, AI experience could still flourish without sacrificing Apple's core values.

Gene Munster Says the AI-Led Tech Boom Could Last at Least 2 More Years

January 5, 2026, 12:28 PM EST. Venture capital analyst Gene Munster argues that the AI-led tech boom has at least two more years of upside. He notes that surging demand for AI software, hardware accelerators, and data-center spending will lift earnings and capex across cloud providers, semiconductor suppliers, and AI startups. The cycle is driven by enterprise AI adoption, accelerating product roadmaps and margins for platform companies. Investors should consider exposure to AI-native ecosystems, though he cautions about interest-rate sensitivity, regulatory headwinds, and the risk of a demand pullback if growth cools.

Deals: Apple Watch Series 11, iPad mini, Anchor Blue Sport Loop + More CES 2026 Savings

January 5, 2026, 12:26 PM EST. Kick off 2026 with fresh gadget deals tied to CES 2026. You can snag iPad mini 7 at $100 off and Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS + Cellular) with similar savings, while stock lasts. The Anchor Blue Apple Watch Sport Loop for 46mm has returned to its all-time low at $34 (Prime shipped). Also on tap: Apple Pencil Pro discounts up to 37%, a 25W MagSafe Charger at $30, and Anker New Year offers with up to 55% off on Prime and Nano chargers and bundles. Note some base models are selling out, but several color/case configurations remain available. If you're shopping wearables and accessories in 2026, these prices are worth a quick pull-trigger before they vanish.

Rigetti to Join Fireside Chat at 28th Needham Growth Conference

January 5, 2026, 12:24 PM EST. Rigetti Computing, a pioneer in full-stack quantum-classical computing, announced that CEO Dr. Subodh Kulkarni and CFO Jeff Bertelsen will participate in a fireside chat at the 28th Annual Needham Growth Conference on January 13, 2026. The event includes one-on-one meetings and a live webcast via Rigetti's Investor Relations site, with a replay available for 90 days. Rigetti continues to showcase its quantum cloud services and on-premises QPU offerings, highlighting progress from 24-84 qubits to its 9-qubit Novera QPU and integrated quantum-classical infrastructure. Investors can register for the webcast and tune in for updates on the company's growth, partnerships, and roadmap as it accelerates deployment of practical quantum computing solutions.

Alexa Plus Opens to Everyone in Browser Early Access

January 5, 2026, 12:22 PM EST. Amazon's Alexa Plus is now officially available to everyone in an early access program. Anyone can sign up at Alexa.com to chat with the AI assistant in a browser, giving Alexa browser-based capabilities atop its existing Echo integrations. The web interface lets you update to-do lists, make reservations, and even upload documents, emails, and images so Alexa can pull out key details. It can generate meal plans, automatically fill Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods carts, and manage smart home devices like lights and cameras from your chat. While the experience is occasionally rocky, a quick double-check is wise. New features include a sidebar for quick access to favorite Alexa tools and a redesigned mobile app, plus Prime Video entertainment options. Google Gemini is cited for comparison but isn't as reliable yet.

Amazon brings Alexa+ to the web with Alexa.com, updates app and expands partner integrations

January 5, 2026, 12:14 PM EST. Amazon is expanding its AI assistant with the launch of Alexa.com and the web-enabled version of Alexa+, rolling out to Early Access users. The update includes a more chatbot-centric Alexa app experience and broadens access beyond Echo devices to the web and phones. Amazon pitches a family-focused hub that can manage calendars, to-do lists, reservations, shopping, and routines across devices. New integrations with Angi, Expedia, Square, and Yelp join existing partners like Fodor's, OpenTable, Uber, and more. By aiming to act as a central home hub, Alexa+ seeks to simplify family life and planning while offering a broader, device-agnostic interface.

SpaceX's Market Share in Commercial Space Launch: What Investors Need to Know

January 5, 2026, 12:12 PM EST. For investors tracking the commercial space launch market, SpaceX's dominant position shapes growth, pricing, and risk. The company's market share remains a key driver of revenue prospects, supported by a high-frequency launch cadence and a diversified manifest that includes NASA/DoD contracts, commercial customers, and future Starship missions. Compare SpaceX to rivals like ULA, Arianespace, and Blue Origin to gauge competition and barriers to entry. Key questions: how sustainable is the current pricing model, what share of launches can SpaceX capture in the near term, and how will reusable technology and new platforms affect margins? Investors should monitor contract awards, customer diversification, and regulatory/insurance costs as levers of profitability and risk in the space economy.

CES 2026: Solver Adds Programmable Haptic Buttons to Your Smartphone

January 5, 2026, 12:10 PM EST. At CES Unveiled, Solver debuted a tiny magnetically attached add-on that brings two programmable haptic buttons to modern smartphones. The back-mounted pod clips onto iPhone or Android devices and doesn't require powering the phone to use. Each button can be custom-programmed to launch apps, execute Shortcuts, or trigger a sequence of actions. Demonstrations showed taps opening Notes, YouTube, or Spotify, and more complex setups could trigger emergency workflows, like starting a video recording, sharing location, dialing 911, or snapping an alert with a single tap. Solver aims to give users tactile shortcuts without rebuilding a device, turning routine taps into a flexible automation layer.

Apple TV Dominates Critics Choice Awards with Three Series and One Movie Win

January 5, 2026, 12:06 PM EST. Apple TV dominated the Critics Choice Awards this year, winning seven awards across three TV series and a film. The studio clinched Best Comedy Series for The Studio, along with acting honors for Seth Rogen (Best Actor in a Comedy) and Ike Barinholtz (Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy). The drama category recognized Pluribus with Rhea Seehorn as Best Actress in a Drama. Severance earned Tramell Tillman as Best Supporting Actor in a Drama. Technical prizes went to F1 for Best Editing (Stephen Mirrione) and Best Sound (Al Nelson, et al.). These wins reflect Apple TV's record-breaking 2025 season as it expands its 2026 lineup.

Microsoft reportedly ends Windows telephone activation, forcing online activation

January 5, 2026, 12:00 PM EST. PCWorld and Neowin report Microsoft has quietly discontinued telephone activation for Windows 10 and Windows 11, removing the last offline method to activate without internet. Calls to the activation hotline now route to an online portal, with a short voice message directing users to aka.ms/aoh. Although the activation menu still shows the option, it no longer works in practice. The change appears to be unannounced by Microsoft, and it could affect users with limited connectivity who rely on offline activation. Microsoft still mentions telephone activation in some support pages, and a formal announcement may follow. The shift underscores a move toward online activation for Windows products.

EchoStar-SpaceX deal could create spectrum 'dead zone' amid FCC scrutiny

January 5, 2026, 11:58 AM EST. EchoStar's sale to SpaceX of AWS-3, AWS-4 and H-Block spectrum for future direct-to-device (D2D) services has drawn strong responses in the FCC docket. Liberty Latin America argues the deal would erase EchoStar's terrestrial 5G commitments and strand spectrum licensed to LLA in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, turning those bands into a spectrum dead zone if shifted to D2D use. It also accuses EchoStar of misleading the FCC, and urges denial of SpaceX's waiver while demanding adherence to terrestrial buildout deadlines. The Wireless Infrastructure Association cautions against unjust enrichment at the expense of infrastructure firms. Other commenters urge careful scrutiny of the waiver and the potential impact on equipment manufacturers and existing tower and network plans.

CES 2026 Live: NVIDIA, Lego, AMD, Amazon Lead AI-Driven Reveals

January 5, 2026, 11:48 AM EST. Follow TechCrunch's live coverage from Las Vegas as CES 2026 kicks off with AI-centered announcements from NVIDIA, Lego, AMD, Amazon, and more. The show explores the convergence of AI and the physical world across factories, robotics, and autonomous vehicles, with early reveals before January 6 kickoff. Our editors dish on the most interesting, quirky, and relevant hardware, from GPUs to smart toys, and track how AI is reshaping consumer tech, enterprise solutions, and the broader tech ecosystem. Stay tuned for real-time updates and hands-on impressions as brands unveil new products and strategies.

Nvidia Teases DLSS 4.5 with 2nd-Gen Transformer and Dynamic 6x Frame Generation at CES

January 5, 2026, 11:46 AM EST. Nvidia is expanding its AI-first toolkit with DLSS 4.5, set to debut at CES with a 2nd-generation transformer model trained on a larger dataset to curb ghosting and improve anti-aliasing. A new dynamic 6x frame generation feature will push frame rates toward a monitor's refresh rate, especially for high-refresh displays, though artifacts and latency concerns linger from prior RTX 50-series implementations. The DLSS 4.5 transformer will run on RTX 20, 30, 40, and 50-series, while the 6x and fully dynamic options will be exclusive to RTX 50-series and arrive later in spring. Nvidia's keynote is expected to cover AI hardware progress and, notably, steer clear of RTX 50 Super GPUs.

HSBC Sees 70% Downside on Tesla as Standard Variants Fail to Fill the Gap

January 5, 2026, 11:40 AM EST. HSBC analyst Michael Tyndall keeps a Reduce rating and a $131 target on Tesla, implying roughly a 70% downside from Friday's close of $438.07. Q4 deliveries missed consensus, and the cheaper Standard Model 3/Y failed to compensate for waning demand after the U.S. EV tax credits expired. Tesla delivered 418,227 vehicles in Q4 and produced 434,358; full-year 2025 deliveries fell ~8.6% to 1.636 million. BYD surpassed Tesla to become the top EV brand in 2025 with 2.26 million BEVs sold (+28%). Tyndall notes weak volumes in US, Europe and China amid a regionalized BEV market. Energy storage, at 14.2 GWh in Q4, was a brighter spot, while competition intensifies globally.

LeCun labels Meta's new AI chief inexperienced, warns of talent exodus

January 5, 2026, 11:34 AM EST. Yann LeCun, often called the godfather of AI, sharply criticizes Meta's strategy after naming Alexander Wang, a 29-year-old co-founder of Scale AI, as Meta's Chief AI Officer. LeCun says Wang is young and inexperienced in research, who now leads Meta's TBD Labs to build new models. He warns that Meta's aggressive hiring and past benchmark controversies around Llama 4 could prompt a staff exodus as researchers feel sidelined. The future will say whether that was a good idea, while suggesting LLMs are a dead end for true superintelligence. Meta has not publicly responded at press time. LeCun remains focused on his new work on world models with Advanced Machine Intelligence Labs.

IPv6 Market Forecast 2025-2030: IoT Growth and Global Adoption Propel IPv6

January 5, 2026, 11:30 AM EST. The IPv6 market is expanding as governments push for wider adoption to bolster cybersecurity and sustain millions of connected devices. The Global IPv6 market was valued at 41.4 Billion Units in 2024 and is projected to reach 127.6 Billion Units by 2030, a CAGR of 20.7%. Growth is driven by regulatory incentives, rising IoT deployments, expanding mobile networks, and greater reliance on cloud services and CDNs. Smart cities and enterprise networks leverage IPv6 to manage large device populations and improve content delivery. End-user demand for performance and security, coupled with developers' needs for real-time data transfer, further accelerates the shift. Key segments include Device (Fixed, Mobile) and regional outlooks for the US, China, Japan, Europe, and beyond, with notable gains in fixed and mobile device markets.

Satellites Capture Rogue Waves Up to 115 Feet in Megastorm Eddie, Highlighting Ocean Trends

January 5, 2026, 11:28 AM EST. Using SWOT, Jason-3 and Sentinel-3 radar data, scientists confirmed waves in the North Pacific from the megastorm Eddie reaching up to 35 meters (115 feet) as crests rode nearly 15,000 miles across ocean basins. The storm's field showed a significant wave height around 19.7 meters, pushing past prior rogue waves expectations and providing the first satellite-backed glimpse of seas at this scale. The study places these extreme waves within a broader pattern: mean and extreme wave heights have risen since the 1980s, especially in the Southern Ocean, while marine heatwaves in 2024 expanded across about 40 million sq km. Although climate change may contribute, researchers caution against attributing all giant waves to warming alone.

Samsung's CES 2026 First Look: Micro RGB TVs, Music Studio Speakers and Freestyle+ AI Projector

January 5, 2026, 11:26 AM EST. Samsung kicked off CES 2026 with a first-look press conference, unveiling a mix of concept and near-term products. The showstopper is Samsung's 130-inch Micro RGB TV, framed on a metal easel, with embedded speakers and claimed 100% Rec.2020 coverage. Samsung broadened the Micro RGB lineup to 55, 65, 75, plus 85, 100 and 115-inch models, with prices to be announced; earlier $30,000 prototype for 115 inches remains far above mainstream. In the demo area, the Music Studio wireless speakers (Studio 5 and Studio 7) showcased immersive audio, while the Freestyle+ micro projector adds brighter output and smarter AI capabilities. Samsung emphasized design and adaptive displays designed to blend into living spaces, signaling a broader AI-era strategy across home entertainment.

Tesla Floats Through SoCal Floodwaters: Video Sparks Debate Over Car as Boat

January 5, 2026, 11:24 AM EST. Southern California's January deluge sparked dramatic scenes as floodwaters engulfed streets in San Diego and Orange County. A video captured a brown or oxblood Tesla-likely a Model Y-driving through water so deep it crested the hood and brushed the mirrors, seemingly propelled by wheel thrust as the car briefly floated. Teslas are not boats, but their battery packs are sealed and protected; absence of an air intake prevents hydrolock. Elon Musk has noted short-term floating, though it is not recommended. The incident highlights issues of water intrusion, cabin filters, and potential electrical failures. Tesla's warranty typically excludes water damage, and repairs can be costly if water reaches the HVAC system or power electronics.

Apple Watch Series 11 at all-time low price: $300, 25% off

January 5, 2026, 11:22 AM EST. Apple Watch Series 11 is at an all-time low price: $300, a 25% discount off its regular price. The GPS + cellular model is also reduced by $100. The watch remains the team's top pick for a best overall smartwatch thanks to solid battery life, a slim 9.7mm case, and strong fitness features. In our hands-on review, the battery lasted longer than the rated 24 hours, and the Series 11 matches the Series 10 for thinnest design. Key updates include sleep tracking and hypertension notifications, plus a new wrist flick gesture to silence alerts and end calls. With the GPS + cellular version supporting 5G, it's a compelling option for iPhone users looking for a feature-rich wearable at a lower price.

Visa's Smarter Onboarding: How Digital Credentials Redefine Digital Wallets

January 5, 2026, 11:20 AM EST. Visa argues that smart onboarding – not a narrow technical step – is the foundation for how consumers pay, track goals and interact with financial institutions. Moving from a 16-digit PAN to flexible digital credentials enables issuers to support multiple payment methods across rails like Apple Pay and account-to-account transfers. The credential-based approach is more secure and easier to deploy across new rails, letting issuers future-proof experiences by applying intelligence across use cases. When paired with near real-time authorization data and improved front-end apps, it enables personalized content, consent-based data sharing and ongoing optimization. Early wins include personal financial management, where declared goals trigger tailored offers and updates, reducing onboarding friction.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold: The 10-Inch Triple-Panel Phablet Debuts

January 5, 2026, 11:18 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold shakes up foldables with a true tri-fold design that morphs from a 6.5-inch phone into a 10-inch tablet. Unlike Huawei's accordion-style Mate X, the TriFold uses two titanium hinges and three panels, letting you run three apps side-by-side or one large app across the full display. At CES 2026, I found it slim when folded (12.9 mm) and surprisingly tablet-like when open, weighing about 309 g. Pricing is still vague, but the SK price (~$2,500) hints at a premium US release later this year. Availability is limited to a few markets initially. While the idea of a phablet has existed for years, the TriFold delivers a genuinely larger, desktop-like experience on a pocketable device.

Samsung Galaxy S25: One UI 8.5 Beta 3 Rolling Out With January 2026 Patch

January 5, 2026, 11:16 AM EST. Samsung has released the third One UI 8.5 beta for the Galaxy S25 series, including the January 1, 2026 security patch. The ZA3 build (~1.2GB) is rolling out in South Korea, Germany, the UK, and India (India gets the same build as a second beta). US and Poland releases are expected soon. The update fixes several issues: lock screen clock display, Favorites in the Phone app, and Now Briefing visibility, plus improved Live Effects gallery performance and reduced power drain when certain apps run. As Samsung continues testing ahead of the Galaxy S26 launch, users are encouraged to test the beta and share feedback. Expect further tweaks and possible new features beyond the changelog.

Arbe Unveils Ultra-HD Automotive Radar with 300m Range for Eyes-Off Highway Driving at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 11:14 AM EST. Arbe Robotics unveiled at CES 2026 its automotive-grade radar paired with NVIDIA accelerated computing to enable AI-based perception for hands-off and eyes-off driving. The system delivers a raw point cloud of over 20,000 detections per frame from a 2,304-channel array, providing the density needed for high-fidelity perception. At highway speeds, it can reliably detect vehicles and obstacles at 300 meters, giving systems enough time to brake, change lanes, or take action. The collaboration aims to democratize autonomous driving by combining affordable radar with powerful compute for robust perception across conditions, including snow, sleet, rain, fog, and low visibility. Live demonstrations at CES 2026 (Booth 4551) will showcase AI-based occupancy grids and other perception features.

LG's 9mm-thick Wallpaper OLED TV (OLED evo W6) debuts with wireless Zero Connect Box

January 5, 2026, 11:12 AM EST. At CES, LG unveils the ultra-thin Wallpaper OLED TV dubbed OLED evo W6, just 9mm thick. It can connect wirelessly to LG's Zero Connect Box within 10 meters to stream lossless 4K audio and video. LG claims brighter colors and deeper blacks versus prior models and notes the panel is reflection-free per Intertek testing. The TV supports a high refresh rate up to 165Hz and AMD FreeSync Premium. LG hasn't announced pricing, but the W6 will come in 77- and 83-inch sizes, signaling a continued focus at CES on premium, wall-mountable displays.

BYD overtakes Tesla as world's top battery EV seller in 2025

January 5, 2026, 11:10 AM EST. Chinese automaker BYD has overtaken Tesla to become the world's largest seller of battery electric vehicles (EVs) in 2025. BYD sold about 2.26 million battery EVs, up roughly 28% from 2024, averaging over 560,000 per quarter. Tesla delivered just over 1.63 million EVs for the year, an 8.6% decline from 2024. Quarterly sales also fell by more than 15%, as demand cooled ahead of tax-credit expirations. BYD expanded beyond China, with 1 million EVs sold outside China in 2025, up 150% from 2024, while Tesla faced declines in major European markets (France -37%, Sweden -70%), though Norway remained positive. The shift comes amid ongoing supply-chain dynamics and moves like Samsung's $16.5B semiconductor deal to boost manufacturing efficiency.

Vision Pro struggles as demand wanes; iPhone remains Apple's backbone

January 5, 2026, 11:08 AM EST. Apple's Vision Pro faces weak demand and production cuts, with IDC projecting just 45,000 units in Q4 2025. Even at $3,499, sales are immaterial to Apple's revenue. The piece emphasizes that the iPhone remains the core driver of Apple's results, delivering over half of fiscal 2025 revenue, with Wearables and Services still tied to the iPhone. The story frames Apple within The Innovator's Dilemma: reliant on the iPhone while seeking a next big thing, possibly an AR glasses era, but reluctant to disrupt its core business. As Apple searches for the next platform, analysts question whether Vision Pro will become a mass market product or if Apple will pivot to a different spatial-computing strategy rather than an iPhone successor.

Smart toilets bring AI to the bathroom at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 11:02 AM EST. CES 2026 widens home AI from thermostats to the toilet. The Vovo Neo smart toilet earned a 2026 Innovation award for features like automatic lid operation, heated seat, auto flush, and a built-in urine-analysis sensor that shows health data on a wall monitor. An AI feature called 'Jindo the Dog' can alert family if the user hasn't used the toilet in 12 hours, aiding seniors living independently, with a price tag of $4,990. Vivoo is launching a clip-on hydration tracker for existing toilets that analyzes eight urine markers with no-touch optical sensing. Beyond toilets, Halo by Y-Brush uses AI and SmartNose gas sensors to detect health issues from breath, due for release in 2027.

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 Review: A 34-Inch Ultrawide at 360 Hz with V-Stripe OLED

January 5, 2026, 11:00 AM EST. MSI's MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 couples a 34-inch ultrawide 3440×1440 panel with a blistering 360 Hz refresh rate. The new fifth-gen QD-OLED uses a V-Stripe RGB subpixel layout for crisper text and reduced color fringing, while the DarkArmor Film increases surface hardness and cuts reflections to keep blacks deeper in real rooms. An AI Care Sensor with OLED Care 3.0 auto-dims, adjusts color temperature, and mitigates image retention based on presence, distance, and activity. The 1800R curvature, DisplayPort 2.1a and dual HDMI 2.1 inputs, plus a USB-C with up to 98 W PD and a USB hub, aim to make this a single-cable, high-speed ultrawide for gaming and productivity.

Shure Unveils MV88 USB-C Mic for Pro Audio on Smartphones

January 5, 2026, 10:56 AM EST. Shure unveils the MV88 USB-C, a compact stereo microphone that brings pro audio to smartphones and tablets with a simple USB-C connection. Billed as a plug-and-go solution, the mic pairs with iOS and Android devices and avoids pairing, range, or battery worries. It includes an Auto Level mode and a Real-time Denoiser to keep recordings clear, plus five quick-start presets and manual controls for gain, EQ, compression, sound limits, and a high-pass filter. Control is via the MOTIV Video and MOTIV Audio apps, with MOTIV Mix on desktop. Priced at $159 and shipping with a foam windscreen and protective case, the MV88 USB-C aims to deliver studio-grade processing in a portable package.

New VVS Stealer Targets Discord Accounts Using Obfuscated Python and Discord Injection

January 5, 2026, 10:54 AM EST. Cybersecurity researchers disclosed a new Python-based information stealer named VVS Stealer that harvests Discord tokens and account data. Marketed on Telegram since April 2025 (per Palo Alto Networks Unit 42), the malware uses Pyarmor to obfuscate Python scripts, hindering static analysis. Packaged with PyInstaller, it persists by adding itself to Windows Startup and shows fake 'Fatal Error' pop-ups to coax users into rebooting. Once active, it exfiltrates Discord data, plus Chromium/Firefox browser data (cookies, history, passwords, autofill) and can take screenshots. It also implements Discord injection by terminating the app, then downloading an obfuscated JavaScript payload that monitors network traffic via the Chrome DevTools Protocol. Pricing on Telegram ranges from €10 weekly to €199 for a lifetime license, indicating a cost-effective, stealthy tool for threat actors.

Apple MagSafe Charger on Sale: $30 for 1m and $40 for 2m at Amazon

January 5, 2026, 10:52 AM EST. Amazon is discounting Apple's MagSafe charger: the 1m model is $30 and the 2m version is $40. The cable can deliver up to 25W charging when paired with a 30W power adapter, and it works with iPhone 8 and newer (including iPhone 16/17 and iPhone Air); older iPhones top out at 15W. It's Qi2.2-certified and also charges AirPods. A solid Apple accessory that pairs nicely with newer iPhones and makes a practical gift for MagSafe fans.

Is This the World's Thinnest Tablet? Toall's Paper at 0.12 Inches

January 5, 2026, 10:50 AM EST. At CES, the ultra-thin 'Paper' tablet from the little-known Chinese brand Toall grabs attention with a thickness of 0.12 inches. Marketed as one of the world's thinnest tablets, the Paper aims to redefine portability for tablets. If performance aligns with its svelte design, Toall could push future models toward even slimmer form factors. Takeaways: ultra-thin chassis, Toall, Paper tablet, CES showcase.

Monday's biggest analyst calls: Coinbase, Duolingo, Mobileye, Uber, Procore and more

January 5, 2026, 10:34 AM EST. Monday's top analyst moves: Coinbase (COIN) upgraded to Buy by Goldman Sachs, flagged as best-in-class with secular growth from derivatives, crypto infrastructure, and tokenization. Church & Dwight (CHD) upgraded to Outperform by Raymond James, with a call to buy the dip and a $100 target. Duolingo (DUOL) upgraded to Buy by Bank of America, seen as undervalued relative to its growth in entertainment content. Mobileye (MBLY) upgraded to Overweight by Barclays, highlighting favorable risk/reward; Procore Technologies (PCOR) upgraded to Overweight by Barclays on new CEO momentum. Lumexa Imaging (LMRI) initiated Overweight by JPMorgan with a December 2026 price target of $23. Motorola Solutions (MSI) upgraded to Overweight by Piper Sandler, target $443. Uber (UBER) downgraded to Sell by Melius amid competitive threats. Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP) upgraded to Overweight by Piper Sandler.

Samsung One UI 8.5 beta adds 'say hello to your family' prompts in Now Brief/Now Bar

January 5, 2026, 10:30 AM EST. Samsung's One UI 8.5 beta adds a charming reminder in Now Brief/Now Bar: a prompt to 'say hello to your family' after not contacting someone in a while. The message shows the days since last contact (for example, 26 days) and can be dismissed with 'Not now.' Spotted on the Galaxy S25 series beta builds, the feature raises questions about how family is identified and whether users can manually select who gets reminders. If confirmed, this privacy-conscious nudge could nudge users toward reconnecting with loved ones in future One UI updates.

Generation AI: Why universal computing literacy is needed to avert a social divide

January 5, 2026, 10:28 AM EST. In a Cambridge classroom, 10-year-old Joseph trains an AI to distinguish apples from faces, illustrating that today's students can become AI natives. Yet experts warn of a looming social divide between people who understand how AIs work and those who do not. Raspberry Pi Foundation chief Philip Colligan says AI literacy should be as universal as reading and writing to prevent disempowerment. Simon Peyton Jones calls for a new digital literacy qualification so students know how to use AIs critically rather than accepting magic. With GCSE computing enrollment declining while AI use surges, the article argues that teaching computing skills is essential to ensure all children can participate in and govern a world shaped by AI.

LG W6 Wallpaper OLED TV Debuts at CES 2026 with Ultra-High Brightness and Glare-Free Design

January 5, 2026, 10:24 AM EST. LG unveiled the W6 Wallpaper OLED TV at CES 2026, a 9mm-thick 4K display boasting Brightness Booster Ultra and Hyper Radiant Color Technology. LG says the panel is 3.9x brighter than conventional OLEDs and features a reflection-free coating for improved viewing in lit rooms. Available in 77- and 83-inch sizes, it uses a wireless connection box for inputs while still needing power. The W6 delivers a comprehensive gaming suite with 4K 165Hz, G-SYNC, and AMD FreeSync Premium, plus a 0.1ms pixel response. It also brings back wallpapers-inspired features and an improved wall mount for edge-to-edge flush mounting. Pricing and availability were not announced, but the W6 appears poised to challenge rivals on brightness and glare control.

Mercedes-Benz Demonstrates Surface-Street Autonomy with Drive Assist Pro on the CLA

January 5, 2026, 10:20 AM EST. Mercedes-Benz's CLA demonstrates a software-defined vehicle approach where Drive Assist Pro collaborates with the driver on city streets. The system anticipates road geometry, reads stop signs and traffic lights, and even slows for speed bumps, keeping to safe, legal speeds in a 20-minute test around the city famed by tech giants. With a software-defined vehicle architecture-four powerful computers, including Nvidia Orin for perception and path planning-the stack is now an end-to-end AI model rather than a rule-based system. Mercedes says parking navigation is faster, and human intervention wasn't required during the demo, aside from occasional crosswalk confusion.

How to get Apple Fitness+ for free: tips, bundles, and promos

January 5, 2026, 10:18 AM EST. Apple Fitness+ offers guided workouts on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV. While it normally costs $9.99/month, there are several ways to access it at no extra charge. If you're an Anytime Fitness member, you may get Fitness+ free. Wellhub Basic users can access it for free. New subscribers can score three months free when you buy a new Apple device (Apple Watch, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, AirPods Pro 3, or Powerbeats Pro 2). Family Sharing can unlock Fitness+ for up to six users. The simplest option for many is the Apple One Premier bundle, which includes Fitness+ along with other services like Apple TV, Apple Music, and more. Consider these options to try Fitness+ before subscribing.

Uganda 2026 election: UCC denies plans to shut down internet

January 5, 2026, 10:16 AM EST. Uganda's authorities denied reports they would shut down the internet during next week's elections, despite opposition claims and a previous four-day blackout in 2021. Starlink briefly restricted services in Uganda after a regulator order, fueling concerns. President Yoweri Museveni seeks a sixth term amid a strong challenge from Bobi Wine. The government banned live broadcasts of riots and other violent incidents, while UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo insisted there was no plan to switch off connectivity. In response, the National Unity Platform launched an offline vote-monitoring app called Bitchart that uses Bluetooth to share results forms without internet. The app aims to help verify results and counter alleged suppression as the election approaches.

Apple Pencil Pro Price Drops to Record Low $92.97 on Amazon

January 5, 2026, 10:14 AM EST. Amazon has slashed the Apple Pencil Pro to $92.97, a new record low that beats the previous drop by about $2. The deal, valid on Amazon only for now, highlights the stylus's compatibility with M4/M5 iPad Pro, M2/M3 iPad Air, and A17 Pro iPad mini. MacRumors notes the affiliate partnership with Amazon, which helps keep the site running. If you're chasing discounts, check our Apple Deals roundup and consider subscribing to the Deals Newsletter to catch the biggest savings of 2026. This price could disappear quickly, so act fast if you want to snag the Pencil Pro at a deep discount.

Clicks unveils Communicator: a BlackBerry-esque Android phone plus Power Keyboard for distraction-light messaging

January 5, 2026, 10:06 AM EST. Clicks is betting on a tactile, QWERTY-centered approach with the Communicator, a BlackBerry-esque Android phone designed for distraction-light messaging. The device emphasizes communication with a dedicated Message Hub, a fingerprint sensor in the spacebar, and a compact 4.03-inch AMOLED panel. Specs include 50MP main camera, 24MP front, 4,000mAh silicon-carbon battery with Qi2 wireless charging, 5G, NFC, 256GB storage up to 2TB via microSD, and a 3.5mm jack. It can act as a companion to an iPhone or Galaxy or function as a primary phone running Android 16. Early pricing starts at $399 (rising to $499 after Feb 27) with shipping later this year. The Power Keyboard adds a magnetic keyboard, stand, and a 2,150 mAh backup battery, and works with MagSafe or Android devices.

SwitchBot Lock Vision: Facial-recognition deadbolt with Matter support

January 5, 2026, 10:04 AM EST. SwitchBot has unveiled the Lock Vision, its first deadbolt smart lock that installs directly into the door and unlocks with a glance. The system uses 3D facial recognition for near-instant access and adds options like passcodes, app control, geofenced auto-unlock, an NFC card, and a physical key. A premium Lock Vision Pro expands with fingerprint and palm-vein recognition. The lock supports Matter-over-Wi-Fi for direct integration with Apple Home and comes with an emergency backup battery plus a long-life backup that lasts up to five years. Two variations were announced, but pricing and availability are not yet disclosed. This marks SwitchBot's shift from retrofit modules to a door-integration design while emphasising everyday convenience and home-automation compatibility.

TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro Debuts at CES With NXTPAPER Key, Eye-Comfort Modes and T-Pen Support

January 5, 2026, 10:00 AM EST. At CES, TCL unveils the NXTPAPER 70 Pro, a new Android smartphone in its NXTPAPER lineup. It adds a dedicated NXTPAPER Key to instantly switch between Color Paper Mode, Ink Paper Mode, and Max Ink Mode, delivering a paper-like viewing experience with a color option. In Max Ink Mode, readers enjoy up to seven days of reading and extended standby, while built-in AI tools include AI Outline, AI Q&A, AI Audiobook and AI Podcast. With a low-latency T-Pen stylus, users can capture AI handwriting and create covers or bullet journals. The device is TÜV and SGS certified for eye comfort, offering seven core eye-care technologies to enable all-day viewing for work, study, and creativity.

TCL revives Max Ink Mode on NXTPaper 70 Pro, plus Note A1 tablet with paperlike screen

January 5, 2026, 9:44 AM EST. TCL unveils a new generation of smartphones with its NXTPaper screen, led by the 70 Pro. Features include IP68 dust/water resistance, a 6.9-inch NXTPaper 4.0 display with a textured, paperlike finish, a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chip, 8GB RAM, and a 50MP main camera with OIS. The return of Max Ink Mode blends focus mode with a minimalist launcher. US price TBD; Europe is ~€339 (~$400). TCL is also expanding with the Note A1 NXTPaper tablet: an 11.5-inch note-taking device running a simplified Android OS, no Play Store, Wi-Fi only, and included T-Pen Pro with haptic feedback. It centers on the "Inspiration Space" with a circle to save shortcut. Note A1 priced at $549 (preorder via Kickstarter at $419), shipping end of February.

Leaptic teases 8K AI tiny action camera to rival DJI Osmo Nano at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 9:24 AM EST. Leaptic is teasing a modular, tiny action camera that aims to challenge DJI's Osmo Nano at CES 2026. Early teasers show a silhouette similar to the Osmo Nano and promise 8K video wrapped in an AI-powered workflow. The device reportedly weighs about 35g, supports voice control, and includes AI subject and action detection with auto editing to speed up production. If real, this could join the ranks of Insta360 Go 3S as a compact, wearable or mountable camera for tight spaces and creative angles. CES 2026 should bring more concrete specs and pricing. Leaptic's debut signals growing competition in the compact, AI-enabled action camera market.

Samsung hints at possible Galaxy price hikes as memory chip costs rise

January 5, 2026, 9:20 AM EST. At CES 2026, Samsung Electronics co-CEO TM Roh warned that a memory-chip shortage isn't just a PC problem and could push up Galaxy device prices. He noted that the ripple effects extend beyond smartphones to TVs and home appliances, and emphasized Samsung isn't immune to higher memory costs. While the company is pursuing long-term strategies to cushion consumers, some impact is inevitable, and rumors persist about price hikes for the upcoming Galaxy S26 series. The move comes amid reports of short-term memory-chip contracts and limited favorable terms from suppliers, even within Samsung's own semiconductor division. Samsung hasn't disclosed pricing yet, but investors and fans should brace for potential changes in pricing and features.

Matrack Unveils Viewmaster: North America's Most Affordable AI Dashcam at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 9:14 AM EST. At CES 2026, Matrack announces the Viewmaster, an AI-powered dashcam priced under $100-the most affordable AI dashcam in North America. The dual-camera system features front and rear AI, a Driver Monitoring System that detects texting, distraction, yawning and fatigue, and ADAS functions like lane departure and collision alerts. Coupled with PingMaster, Matrack's anti-theft device, Viewmaster forms a complete vehicle security ecosystem, offering 4G LTE live streaming, cloud storage, and real-time event uploads. The device integrates with Matrack's telematics platform and provides continuous protection for individuals and fleets, aiming to expand access to advanced safety tech for dealerships and consumers alike.

Wondershare EdrawMax Tops G2 'Easiest to Use Diagramming Software' Ranking with AI-Driven Updates

January 5, 2026, 9:12 AM EST. Wondershare EdrawMax has been ranked No.1 globally in G2's 'Easiest to Use Diagramming Software' category, signaling strong usability and broad user trust. The AI-enabled diagramming suite, powered by EdrawMax V15, introduces the innovative Draw Agent for natural-language diagram creation and optimization. The update also integrates Google's Nano Banana Pro to boost AI-generated scientific diagrams, supporting more accurate, research-grade visuals. The recognition sits within Wondershare's broader AI push across its product portfolio, including Filmora V15 with end-to-end AI editing, EdrawMind V13 with enhanced knowledge management, and PDFelement V12 with AI-powered Smart Redact and Translation. The company's ongoing AI integrations span other leading technologies, reinforcing Wondershare's global footprint in video, diagramming, and document management.

Ford CEO Farley balks at Senate hearing over unequal Tesla invitation

January 5, 2026, 9:10 AM EST. Ford CEO Jim Farley is pushing back on testifying before a Senate Commerce Committee hearing, complaining of unequal invitation compared with Tesla. Ford contends it will send a witness only if the senior executives are treated consistently with peers. A December letter to Senate Chair Ted Cruz notes Tesla's invite went to its VP of vehicle engineering, not Elon Musk, prompting questions about fairness as the Detroit Three weigh appearances alongside executives from GM and Stellantis. The dispute raises questions about timing, testimony strategy, and how lawmakers approach auto-industry topics like affordability and consumer choice. Analysts say CEOs typically testify together, but Farley's stand underscores tensions over how invites are allocated and the potential impact on the policy hearing.

Silicon Valley's Peptide Craze: Startups, Money, and Health Risks

January 5, 2026, 9:00 AM EST. Tech startup culture meets a dangerous health trend as Silicon Valley chases peptide hacks. A New York Times piece by Jasmine Sun chronicles founders and influencers buying powdered amino acids from China, reconstituting them, and injecting them after hype from podcasts and chatbots, captured at a San Francisco 'peptide rave.' Wealth and hype drive demand: imports of hormone and peptide compounds from China rose to about $328 million in the first three quarters of 2025. The trend includes microdosing semaglutide and stacking several peptides, with costs climbing. The article underscores safety concerns, a looming regulatory gap, and how moneyed tech culture may be fueling dangerous self-experimentation.

CES 2026: Everything Is AI – What Really Matters Is How You Use It

January 5, 2026, 8:58 AM EST. At CES 2026, the AI wave dominates every gadget, from smart glasses to wearables and beyond. WIRED previews a week of announcements, live blogs, and hands-on demos as vendors rush to embed AI features into devices. But experts warn that saturation has dulled the novelty: Everything is AI now, so nothing is AI. The real differentiator will be the software, not the hardware, says Anshel Sag of Moor Insights & Strategy. Look for trends in smart glasses, AI-powered earbuds, health sensors, and the expanding smart home as software maturity and user experience decide which products win. Meta's lead in glasses and the ongoing hardware-vs-software balance will shape the show, even as coverage stresses usefulness over buzzwords.

Chip ETFs outpace software as AI-driven tilt sparks market divergence

January 5, 2026, 8:56 AM EST. One session in 2026 marks a rare market split: the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH) surged while the iShares Expanded Tech Software ETF (IGV) fell, producing a record 6.6 percentage-point gap and the widest outperformance of SMH versus IGV since 2011. In this moment the AI picks-and-shovels theme favors hardware exposure over software, suggesting funds leaned into a hardware-over-software tilt at year's start. The rolling one-year correlation between SMH and IGV remains high, signaling this divergence may reflect allocation shifts rather than fundamentals. Investors should watch whether this tilt persists as AI demand evolves.

Global Mofy AI expands with Eaglepoint AI U.S. subsidiary to boost global AI training and data governance

January 5, 2026, 8:54 AM EST. Global Mofy AI Limited unveiled Eaglepoint AI Inc., a Delaware-based subsidiary in which it holds a 51% stake through GMM Discovery LLC, expanding its global AI infrastructure. The venture pools a cross-border team from the U.S., Germany, and Ethiopia, with deep experience in data labeling, data governance, and LLM training from Google, Amazon, and OpenAI. Eaglepoint AI will offer scalable AI lifecycle services, anchored by Aquila, its internal workflow tool for prompt engineering, test case construction, and automated cross-model validation across Claude, GPT, Google Gemini, and ByteDance Seed 1.6. The model combines U.S. data governance standards with East Africa execution, leveraging Ethiopia's Digital Ethiopia 2025 and the Ethiopian AI Institute. This aligns with GSMA's view that AI could contribute $2.9 trillion to Africa's economy by 2030.

DJI Osmo Mobile 7P Gimbal Stabilizer Drops to $103 at Amazon, Adds Built-In Extension Rod & Tripod

January 5, 2026, 8:52 AM EST. Looking to elevate smartphone video? The DJI Osmo Mobile 7P is a compact gimbal stabilizer that smooths out shake with its built-in motors, letting you shoot steadier clips while walking or running. It's designed to feel light and ergonomic, with a balanced grip and easy setup, plus a built-in extension rod and tripod for versatile framing. The joystick and controls enable smooth pans and tilts, and it switches between portrait and landscape modes to suit social media and formal videos. The accompanying app adds features like time-lapse and motion tracking for creative shots. Right now it's listed at $103 on Amazon (down from $129), offering savings on a tool that can deliver professional-looking footage for mobile creators.

Apple AirTags Hit Record Low Prices in Amazon's New Year Sale

January 5, 2026, 8:44 AM EST. US discounts drop the AirTags four-pack to $64.99 shipped, about $16.25 per tracker, the best price since Black Friday. UK pricing hits a record £59 for the four-pack, or roughly £14.75 per AirTag, the cheapest ever. AirTags work with Apple's Find My network for quick location checks and precise tracking, ideal for keys, bags, luggage, or misplaced items. The sale marks a standout opportunity to buy ahead of travel or for gift-giving, with especially strong value in the UK.

Waterlily's AI predicts long-term care needs and costs, prompting early planning

January 5, 2026, 8:42 AM EST. Waterlily's AI tool estimates future long-term care needs. In a personal test, a 28-year-old shares details on siblings, lifestyle, ZIP code and finances, then the tool projects about a 1-in-5 chance of needing care around age 86. It envisions five years of support-from 15 to 35 hours/week-with a total cost near $10 million, inflation-adjusted. Access is free only after speaking with a care advisor, and results depend on care type and setting. Waterlily stresses it's not a crystal ball but the best available forecast. The piece echoes findings that many families plan late and need more guidance on options, underscoring a broad demand for proactive care planning.

DJI ends support for Mavic Mini and Osmo Pocket, signaling retirement of two iconic devices

January 5, 2026, 8:38 AM EST. DJI will end official support for two iconic devices: the original Mavic Mini (service ends April 1, 2026) and the Osmo Pocket (February 5, 2026). After these dates, there will be no new inquiries, repairs, or technical support. DJI notes devices have fixed life cycles as technology evolves, urging owners to upgrade to newer hardware for continued service. The Mavic Mini helped create the sub-250g drone category, letting hobbyists fly without FAA registration in many cases. Its successors – Mini 2, Mini 2 SE, Mini 4K, Mini 3, Mini 3 Pro, Mini 4 Pro, Mini 5 Pro, and recent arrivals like Neo 2 and DJI Flip – keep portability and camera quality front and center. The Osmo Pocket also popularized pocket-sized stabilization, now following the same retirement path.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold Hands-On: The Phone-Tablet Hybrid Foldable

January 5, 2026, 8:36 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold hands-on reveals a genuine phone-tablet hybrid that folds into a compact, pocketable device. The tri-fold design adds three panels, delivering a spacious 10-inch inner display and a usable 6.5-inch cover screen, with a slim profile of about 3.9-4.2 mm when open and 12.9 mm when folded. At roughly 309 g, it sits lighter than some book-style foldables but still feels sturdy. Samsung DeX provides a desktop-like workflow on the larger screen, making multitasking and document work practical on the go. Its cameras-featuring a high-end setup with a 200 MP wide sensor and a 12 MP ultrawide-keep flagship-grade imaging in a foldable package. In short, the TriFold prioritizes utility and portability over mere specs, aiming to satisfy a growing niche.

BlackBerry-Style Phones Return: Clicks Communicator Aims to Curb Doomscrolling

January 5, 2026, 8:30 AM EST. The revived BlackBerry vibe returns with the Clicks Communicator, an Android phone that keeps a physical keyboard, retro headphone jack, and a customizable signal light to curb doomscrolling. Marketed as a healthier way to manage screentime, it targets users with a second device, a market some estimate could reach 250 million. The homescreen is driven by Niagara Launcher and shows a curated feed of messages across apps to separate signal from noise, with voice dictation via a dedicated button. While not built for heavy content creation like an iPhone or Pixel, it epitomizes a nostalgia-driven shift toward faster, more intentional communication. The revival follows BlackBerry's late-90s dominance (43% of the market) and 2016 decline.

Geordie AI Selected for 2026 Cybersecurity Startup Accelerator by CrowdStrike, AWS & NVIDIA

January 5, 2026, 8:28 AM EST. Geordie AI, a London-based security and governance platform for agentic AI, has been selected to participate in the 2026 Cybersecurity Startup Accelerator by industry leaders CrowdStrike, AWS and NVIDIA through the Inception program. The eight-week program (Jan 5-Mar 3, 2026) offers hands-on mentorship, technical enablement and go-to-market support, culminating in a Demo Day at the AWS Startup Loft ahead of RSAC 2026. Geordie's platform combines real-time behavioral observability, agent posture management and its proactive risk mitigation engine, Beam, to help enterprises safely scale AI agents while preserving resiliency. CEO Henry Comfort notes the collaboration will accelerate safe adoption of agentic AI and global scaling, with potential investment opportunities through the Falcon Fund.

Arbe Combines Automotive-Grade Radar with NVIDIA AI Computing for Advanced Perception Platform at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 8:26 AM EST. Arbe Robotics unveils an automotive-grade radar platform integrated with NVIDIA accelerated computing to enable AI-based perception for hands-off and eyes-off driving. At CES 2026, Arbe will showcase a radar delivering a raw point cloud of over 20,000 detections per frame from a 2,304-channel array, enabling advanced perception algorithms. The partnership democratizes autonomous driving by delivering affordable, high-performance sensing and computing. Key capabilities include highway-speed operation with accurate long-range detection at up to 130 km/h and over 300-meter point-cloud range, plus robust performance in snow, rain, fog, and low visibility. Live demonstrations at booth 4551 will illustrate real-world highway scenarios and safe, predictable driving.

Arbe Combines Market-Leading Radar with NVIDIA AI Computing to Power AI-Based Driving Platform at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 8:12 AM EST. Arbe Robotics is showcasing its automotive-grade radar integrated with NVIDIA accelerated computing, creating an AI-based perception platform for hands-off and eyes-off driving at CES 2026. The ultra-HD radar provides a channel array of 2,304 with a raw point cloud exceeding 20,000 detections per frame, supporting complex highway scenarios at up to 130 km/h. With detections at 300 meters, robust performance across snow, rain, fog, and low visibility, and seamless integration with complete perception stacks, the collaboration aims to democratize autonomous technology by delivering reliable, affordable perception powered by NVIDIA computing. Arbe's live demonstrations at CES Booth 4551 will show highway-speed navigation and obstacle detection, illustrating how this platform enables safer, more predictable eyes-off driving while reducing system costs for automakers.

AI startups push into the browser market to challenge Google amid rising competition for internet entry points

January 5, 2026, 8:10 AM EST. Leading AI firms are racing to launch AI-powered browsers or embed AI into existing ones, challenging Google's dominance and redefining how people access the web. OpenAI and Perplexity have unveiled browsers, while Microsoft integrated Copilot into Edge, enabling questions within the browser. Mozilla's Mark Surman envisions a future where users choose among AI models in Firefox. Google currently commands over 63% of global browser share and has integrated Gemini into Chrome. For AI companies, browsers offer direct user relationships, data for training models, and new ad-supported monetization streams. Browsers could become platforms for AI agents that perform tasks for users. Critics warn of lag, privacy risks, and data use concerns.

AI-Powered Browsers Enter the Market to Challenge Google

January 5, 2026, 8:08 AM EST. Multiple AI companies are stepping up to challenge Google in the browser market, betting that AI-powered tools will reshape internet access. In recent months OpenAI and Perplexity launched their own browsers, while Microsoft has integrated its Copilot into Edge. Industry voices say AI-driven browsers could redefine interaction online and expand monetization through advertising and data use. Mozilla's Foundation president Mark Surman suggests users will choose which AI models to integrate with Firefox. Google still commands over 63% of global browser share and has embedded Gemini into Chrome. For startups, browsers offer direct access to users and data, enabling more capable AI agents, proactive browsing, and new revenue streams. Privacy and performance concerns remain.

Khadas Mind XPlay: Mini PC-on-a-tablet debuts at CES 2026 to challenge Surface

January 5, 2026, 8:06 AM EST. Khadas is taking on Microsoft's Surface with a new handheld PC-on-a-tablet concept: the Mind XPlay attaches a Mind mini PC to the back of a 13-inch, 1440p tablet, adding a kickstand and basic peripherals. At CES 2026, Khadas announced pricing of $399 for the tablet-adder bundle, with the Mind behind the display serving as the PC core-though the keyboard and tablet are listed separately. The company also teased the Mind Pro, which swaps in Intel's Core Ultra 300 (Panther Lake) while preserving the same form factor; price is $1,899 and availability depends on Intel's rollout. The pitch is clear: a true PC that can be a tablet, not a tablet that only runs PC apps.

Khadas Mind XPlay: Mini PC-powered tablet to challenge Surface at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 8:04 AM EST. Khadas is debuting the Mind XPlay, a 13-inch tablet that uses the Mind mini PC as its core, aiming to be a PC that feels like a tablet rather than a tablet that can do PC tasks. The keyboard and tablet are listed as separate items, though they appear bundled. The Mind XPlay tablet will cost $399 and ship Jan. 9, 2026, at CES. Khadas also teased the Mind Pro, which swaps in Intel's Core Ultra 300 (Panther Lake) while preserving the same form factor and cooling, priced at $1,899 with availability depending on Core Ultra 300 shipments to manufacturers, PCWorld says.

AI Deepfakes Impersonate Pastors to Scam Congregations, Alarm Experts

January 5, 2026, 8:02 AM EST. AI-generated deepfakes are spoofing pastors and church leaders to solicit donations and spread misinformation, as shown by a Catholic priest with 1.2 million YouTube subscribers who warned his followers about impersonation scams. In one clip the fake voice urged people to act fast and secure a 'blessing,' while a looming hourglass and robotic rendering heightened urgency. Experts in cybersecurity say such AI impersonations prey on trust built online, leveraging appearances in video and social feeds to reach vast audiences. Clergy across the U.S. and abroad report DMs, calls, and hacked accounts linked to deepfakes. The problem undermines authenticity and highlights the need for better verification, warning systems, and ethical guidelines as AI tools proliferate.

Huawei Watch Buds 2 Teased with Bold Design and Battery Upgrades

January 5, 2026, 7:54 AM EST. Huawei is reportedly developing the Watch Buds 2, promising a bold makeover and longer battery life for its 2-in-1 smartwatch-earbuds hybrid. The next-gen model is expected to arrive this year with minor design tweaks but major improvements in connectivity and battery performance, according to FixedFocus. The dual device, which flips between a smartwatch and capsule-shaped earbuds, aims to deliver a more intuitive user experience with updated features and audio tech. After the original Watch Buds launched almost three years ago, rumors suggest a release before the Spring Festival (Feb 17), possibly late January or early February. Huawei has not confirmed official plans, but the buzz around Watch Buds 2 indicates a refreshed form factor and enhanced endurance for 2026.

AI and the Human Condition: Reimagining Publishing in the Age of LLMs

January 5, 2026, 7:52 AM EST. An exploration of two paradoxes in the age of AI: LLMs turn content creation into a demand-driven service, threatening traditional publishers, while AI also provides enormous topics and insights. OpenAI may be among the most consequential firms, yet opinions diverge on AGI's benefits. Rather than doom for publishers, the piece argues for a shift from pages to communities, where AI-generated content becomes artifacts that spark collective identity. Publishing could become a totem pole around which communities form, with Stratechery and similar outlets serving as anchors. The vision is a renewable creator economy where content-essays, podcasts, videos-facilitates collaboration and sustained discourse, turning the AI era into a chance to build lasting communities rather than only individual consumption.

Crystal Ball 2026: Will the AI bubble burst or balloon?

January 5, 2026, 7:48 AM EST. Crystal Ball 2026 weighs in on whether the AI bubble bursts or balloons. The thread surveys investors and founders about moving from hype to measurable ROI and revenue impact. Several voices warn about markdowns in AI valuations and pressure on top researchers as the market recalibrates. The consensus leans toward a shift from one "God model" to a menagerie of models, with buyers prioritizing products that reduce churn and grow top-line results. Expect budgets to flee spend-at-all-costs for solutions delivering real value; 2027 could bring a pullback in valuations as markets digest reality. The debate continues: can thousands of specialized models coexist and deliver durable returns, or will the AI hype fade into the next cycle?

SwitchBot Unveils AI MindClip at CES: A Wearable Mic That Records and Summarizes

January 5, 2026, 7:36 AM EST. SwitchBot took to CES with the AI MindClip, a wearable microphone that records and transcribes every word you utter. The device also promises to summarize conversations and pull out actionable details, even generating reminders based on what it thinks you'll need to remember. The company hasn't demonstrated live use, and no pricing or release window has been shared. It's one of several CES prototypes aiming to log your day by voice, hoping to stand out with smarter data extraction. For now, it's unclear when you'll buy it or how much it will cost, but it'll probably be cheaper than a chaise lounge.

Apple AirTag 4-Pack Slashed to $65, Best Price Extends into 2026

January 5, 2026, 7:34 AM EST. Apple's AirTag 4-pack is on sale for $65, down from $99, a 34% savings that extends into 2026. Each compact Bluetooth tracker integrates with the Find My network, letting you locate items via iPhone, iPad, or Mac. With Precision Finding using Ultra-Wideband, a built-in speaker for audible alerts, and end-to-end encrypted location data, AirTags balance precision with privacy. The four-pack pairs quickly in the Find My app, supports Lost Mode, and includes an IP67-rated stainless steel body with a replaceable CR2032 battery. Ideal for keys, wallets, luggage, and bags, this deal provides multiple devices for seamless Apple ecosystem tracking.

China Sets 294 EV Battery Safety Standards Aiming for No Fire or Explosion by 2026

January 5, 2026, 7:32 AM EST. China's regulators propose sweeping EV battery safety measures, with 294 national standards across 13 sectors, emphasizing energy efficiency, safety, and new recycling rules. A standout rule demands 'no fire and no explosion' in batteries, coming into effect July 1, 2026. Automakers such as BYD and battery suppliers like CATL will need to enhance cell structure and thermal management to prevent thermal incidents and fires. Unclear are enforcement mechanisms and penalties if an EV still catches fire post-implementation, and critics warn it could raise development costs and affect the pricing of China's cheaper EVs. The industry is also exploring innovations like fire-suppressing systems and, in some reports, a novel battery that can eject from the car to mitigate incidents.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs S25 Ultra: 28 Upgrades That Actually Matter

January 5, 2026, 7:22 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra packs 28 updates across design, display, camera, performance, and charging that sharpen usability while preserving Samsung's flagship position. Notable changes include a thinner, lighter profile (7.9 mm, 214 g) with rounder corners and a left-side S Pen relocation and a new full-width camera bar. The display gains with a likely M14 OLED panel, higher brightness, efficiency, optional COE tech, an AI privacy display, and Gorilla Armor 3 glass for glare resistance, plus a larger front camera cutout. On the rear camera: faster f/1.4 main, wider f/2.9 5x periscope, slightly smaller 3x telephoto, and an expanded selfie FOV (80°→85°) with higher resolution. These changes emphasize usability and imaging prowess.

Next Florida rocket launches calendar: SpaceX Starlink, Artemis II, Boeing Starliner & more

January 5, 2026, 7:20 AM EST. Stay up to date with Florida's Space Coast rocket schedule as NASA's Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station host a busy year. The list includes SpaceX Falcon 9 missions delivering Starlink satellites on Jan. 7 and Jan. 10 from SLC-40, Artemis II around February from Launch Pad 39B, and a crewed flight on Feb. 15 to the ISS (launch time TBD). Additional entries cover a Boeing Starliner cargo mission (NET April) and a ULA Vulcan launch carrying the Dream Chaser from SLC-41 in Q4 2026. Note that all dates are tentative and launch times may shift due to weather, technical issues, or range restrictions. Check back for updates.

How Millennials Fell Out of Love with the Internet: The Rise of Algorithmic Feeds and Mega Platforms

January 5, 2026, 7:18 AM EST. Millennials remember a different web era built on link aggregators and smaller communities. This piece traces how Facebook's 2006 newsfeed and TikTok's For You Page reshaped discovery, time on site, and how we spend hours online-the result is an increasingly antisocial internet driven by algorithmic personalization that thrives on mega platforms, not open, interconnected spaces. It contrasts today's scroll-heavy feeds with earlier hubs like FARK and Metafilter, showing how engagement and growth were achieved inside new silos rather than through cross-site dialogue. The episode weighs whether these shifts were inevitable and what a return to more diverse, shared online spaces could look like, with Vox unpacking the forces behind the internet's uneasy evolution.

AI-generated and manipulated images flood social media after Maduro's capture

January 5, 2026, 7:16 AM EST. After former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's capture, AI-generated images and altered photos spread rapidly across social media. CBS News analyzed circulating visuals, using reverse image search, source checks, and AI-detection tools-though results from the latter can be inconsistent. The report highlights how misinformation can proliferate as images are shared before verification. One photo, claimed to show Maduro post-capture, was found likely edited or produced with SynthID; a related video showed simulated footage of escorting Maduro, circulated hours before officials confirmed his arrival at a federal facility. Old clips from past events resurfaced, fueling speculation. Experts note that cross-checking dates, locations, and corroborating outlets remains essential to distinguish authentic footage from AI-generated content.

Punkt launches MC03: Privacy-Focused Android-Based Smartphone with deGoogled AphyOS at CES

January 5, 2026, 7:12 AM EST. Punkt rolled out the MC03, a privacy-focused smartphone shown at CES, promising stronger data security for a subscription price. The MC03 is an Android-based phone running AphyOS, but ships without Google Mobile Services, delivering a deGoogled experience powered by Swiss partners Proton and Threema. It offers a dual environment: Vault for secure core apps and Wild Web for installing apps with strict data controls. The device targets users wary of Big Tech and positions itself within a 'Swiss Tech movement'. Hardware includes a 6.67-inch 120Hz OLED display and a removable battery, manufactured in Germany at the Gigaset facility. After 12 months, continued use requires a subscription to AphyOS; otherwise core privacy features may be limited.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra leaks hint at Armor Aluminum 2.0, lighter frame and streamlined One UI 8.5

January 5, 2026, 7:04 AM EST. Samsung's 2026 flagship strategy leaks reveal the Galaxy S26 Ultra moving away from Grade 5 Titanium toward Armor Aluminum 2.0, with launch shades Black Shadow, White Shadow, Galactial Blue, and Ultraviolet signaling a branding shift. The metal swap targets cooler performance and lighter weight, with the device expected to weigh about 214g as aluminum improves heat dissipation versus titanium. Behind the specs, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is tipped to push clocks toward around 4.74GHz, addressing thermal throttling in sustained loads. One UI 8.5 brings a minimalist camera UI with direct LOG and HDR toggles. A February 25, 2026 unveiling is slated for San Francisco. The changes emphasize practical performance and user-facing refinements over material bravado for the S26 Ultra.

iPhone Fold Leaks Suggest 7.6-inch Tablet-Style Display and Advanced Hinge

January 5, 2026, 7:02 AM EST. Apple's rumored iPhone Fold is drawing attention as leaks surface about its design, display, and materials. Supposedly closing to a compact 5.4-inch phone and unfolding into a generous ~7.6 inches, the device aims for a near crease-free inner display enabled by liquid metal hinge tech. Early reports discuss premium chassis materials like titanium and aluminum, focused on durability to withstand repeated folds. The camera setup is expected to mirror current iPhone models with a dual-camera system featuring wide and ultrawide lenses, though some leaks note the possible absence of a telephoto lens. If real, this design would blend smartphone and tablet capabilities, sharpening productivity and media use while attempting to redefine what a smartphone can be. Video previews, such as the one from MacRumors, offer a first look at the 2026 iPhone Fold.

Sheffield project aims to build UK's first national video games archive

January 5, 2026, 6:54 AM EST. Sheffield is launching a project to create a national archive for video games with the backing of the National Videogame Museum and BBC coverage. Behind the Screens aims to archive game design and materials, survey development studios' holdings, and collect players' experiences as part of a broader cultural heritage effort. Supported by the British Film Institute's Screen Heritage Fund, the project will build a networked archive of game design and resources for future generations, while gathering an oral history of gaming's cultural impact. It will document how games have shaped social spaces-from early arcade machines to modern online worlds-capturing the stories behind titles like Space Invaders and the everyday experiences of players.

Belkin's ConnectAir Wireless HDMI Display Adapter enables wireless screen sharing from USB-C devices

January 5, 2026, 6:52 AM EST. Belkin unveiled the ConnectAir Wireless HDMI Display Adapter at CES 2026, a plug-and-play solution that requires no app, driver, or Wi-Fi. The USB-C transmitter plugs into a laptop, tablet, or phone, while the HDMI receiver goes into a TV, monitor, or projector. It streams at 1080p 60Hz with under 80ms latency, ideal for travel, conferences, or classrooms. Up to eight transmitters can share a screen, with a range of up to 131 feet. The ConnectAir will launch in Q1 2026 in select markets, priced at $150.

Smartphones in 2026: 5 Releases to Watch, From iPhone 18 Pro to iPhone Fold

January 5, 2026, 6:50 AM EST. Five anticipated phones define 2026: the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, potentially introducing a variable aperture main camera and the A20 Pro chip built on a 2nm process, plus the spring release of iOS 26 with a smarter Siri. Apple reportedly staggers releases, with the standard iPhone pushed to spring while the Pro models land in fall. Also on the radar is the long-rumored iPhone Fold, which could finally enter the foldable arena this year. Samsung may push its Galaxy S26 to later in the year, but other brands are expected to push new hardware and software innovations. Expect notable gains in performance, power efficiency, and camera versatility across the 2026 lineup.

Foxconn posts 22% Q4 2025 revenue surge as AI buildout accelerates; Nvidia/OpenAI ties grow

January 5, 2026, 6:46 AM EST. Foxconn, the world's largest contract electronics manufacturer, posted a 22% YoY revenue rise to NT$2.6 trillion ($83 billion) in Q4 2025 as AI infrastructure spend surges. The quarter beat expectations as the company continues to supply servers for data centers and assembles Apple's iPhone. Foxconn has strengthened its AI push with partnerships including OpenAI to co-design next-gen AI hardware and with Nvidia (and Taiwan's government) to support a major AI factory in Taiwan. It also took a stake in TECO Electric & Machinery Co., signaling momentum into the AI era despite seasonal ICT headwinds.

Sheffield project aims to build the UK's first national video games archive

January 5, 2026, 6:40 AM EST. Sheffield is spearheading a cultural initiative to preserve the nation's video games history with Behind the Screens, led by the National Videogame Museum. The project aims to create a national archive of games design, collecting developers' notes, downloadable content no longer available to players, and oral histories from gamers themselves. Funded by the British Film Institute's Screen Heritage Fund, it will first survey materials held by studios and then stitch together a networked archive for future generations. The effort treats gaming as a cultural asset and will document how players live inside games-from early arcades to contemporary worlds like Fortnite. Advocates like John O'Shea and Nick Poole stress the importance of capturing the intangible impact of play.

Heading Off Tantrums Before They Start With the Help of a Smartwatch

January 5, 2026, 6:32 AM EST. Parents already track diapers and sleep; now wearables can help curb tantrums. The idea is to monitor the early signals of upset so adults can intervene before the peak. Tantrums are a normal part of childhood development, driven by big emotions that kids can't yet manage. Scientists are zeroing in on the gradual buildup that leads to an eruption, and smartwatches or other tracking tools are being explored as a way to spot those cues. If proven effective, this approach could give parents a new set of early warnings and calmer responses, potentially turning intimidating outbursts into manageable moments.

Sama X to Deliver High-Speed Internet Across Jordan Using Starlink LEO Satellites

January 5, 2026, 6:26 AM EST. Sama X, a new venture and authorized global reseller of SpaceX's Starlink, has received licensing from Jordan's TRC to offer Starlink satellite internet across the Kingdom. The move aims to provide high-speed and reliable internet for individuals, enterprises, and the public sector, including remote northern and southern regions. Launched earlier this year, Sama X focuses on LEO satellite internet that can serve as primary or backup connectivity. Services target NGOs in camps, digital government services, classrooms, logistics, and healthcare facilities in underserved areas. Sama X couples Starlink's constellation-the most sophisticated LEO system-with local expertise, turnkey solutions, rapid installation, and a 24/7 bilingual support center. Backed by Alghanim Industries, Sama X supports Jordan's Economic Modernisation Vision by expanding nationwide connectivity for businesses and communities.

5 Best New Android Apps to Try This January 2026

January 5, 2026, 6:22 AM EST. January 2026's roundup delivers a mix of reading aids, a sprawling RPG, and an innovative reader. DogEar is a home-screen widget that cycles quotes from your favorite books, with a library view that acts as a quote browser-though the free tier is limited and premium pricing is steep. Where Winds Meet is a massive open-world RPG set in 10th-century China, now on Android, featuring a rich world, diverse combat, and up to 150 hours of single-player content (plus a co-op option). Seriatim Reader reimagines reading by displaying books sentence by sentence, supporting EPUB, PDF, and text formats for study and dense material. These picks cover productivity, storytelling, and long-form adventures for Android users this month.

Donut Lab Announces Production-Ready All-Solid-State Battery With 5-Minute Charge

January 5, 2026, 6:18 AM EST. Donut Lab claims the world's first production-ready all-solid-state battery, set to transform EVs from cars to motorcycles. The liquid-free cells deliver 400 Wh/kg energy density and can be fully charged in five minutes, supporting up to 100,000 cycles without limiting charging to 80%. The tech reportedly shrugs off extreme temperatures, retaining >99% capacity between -22°F and 212°F, and promises non-igniting safety if damaged. The company says the cells are cheaper to manufacture and built with green, globally available materials, enabling gigawatt-hour-scale production worldwide. Verge Motorcycles hints its updated TS Pro could be the first production solid-state-powered EV, signaling a rapid deployment trajectory for this new chemistry.

Donut Lab Claims Production-Ready All-Solid-State Battery With 5-Minute Charging and 100,000 Cycles

January 5, 2026, 6:16 AM EST. Donut Lab claims the world's first production-ready all-solid-state battery, delivering 400 Wh/kg and five-minute charging for up to 100,000 cycles. The liquid-free cells are pitched as lighter, safer (no ignition when damaged), and compatible with wide-temperature use from -22°F to 212°F. Donut Lab says the cells are built from 100% green, widely available materials and can be produced at gigawatt-hour scale, with claims of lower costs than conventional Li-ion. Verge Motorcycles' TS Pro is cited as a near-term reference for a solid-state-powered EV. If verified, this could transform vehicles from cars to heavy equipment, though the article notes production details are still developing.

Sama X Secures TRC License to Deliver Starlink LEO Internet Across Jordan

January 5, 2026, 6:12 AM EST. Sama X, a new venture and authorized global reseller of SpaceX's Starlink, has secured a license from Jordan's Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) to offer Starlink satellite internet nationwide. The move aims to deliver high-speed, reliable internet to individuals, enterprises, and the public sector, including remote northern and southern regions. Launching earlier this year, Sama X provides LEO connectivity with fiber-like speeds and serves NGOs in camps, digital government services in rural areas, classrooms, logistics, and healthcare facilities. With local expertise, turnkey installation, and a 24/7 bilingual support center, Sama X and Alghanim Industries backers aim to advance Jordan's Economic Modernisation Vision by expanding nationwide access to dependable digital connectivity.

Rare 'Not for Sale' Google Pixel prototype hits eBay

January 5, 2026, 5:42 AM EST. An ultra-rare Google Pixel (2016) prototype marked "Not for Sale" is up for auction on eBay. The late-stage DVT unit, codename sailfish, is a 128GB, unlocked Pixel that runs Android 10. Bidding stood at around $105 with about a week left. The listing, spotted by Android Authority, shows bootloader and system screens identifying the device as sailfish-ROW-DVT and panels stamped "Property of Google – Android Inventory." Specs align with the original: Snapdragon 821, 4GB RAM, 128GB UFS storage, and a standard Pixel launcher with Google apps. Some details-SIM status, Wi-Fi MAC, Bluetooth, and IP address-are unavailable, typical for prototype hardware. While not fully functional as a daily driver, the item offers a rare glimpse into Google's early hardware and Pixel history for collectors.

Nvidia Rumored to Bring Back RTX 3060 Amid Supply Shortages and 2026 Market Shifts

January 5, 2026, 5:40 AM EST. Rumors suggest Nvidia plans to restart production of the RTX 3060, reviving a two-generation-old card as supply tightness and demand for GDDR7 memory ripple through the market. The chatter is unclear on whether the revived model would use 8GB or 12GB of VRAM, and why Nvidia would ramp a legacy SKU amid ongoing production cuts cited for the RTX 50 series (potentially up to 40%). Some reports tie the push to a broader GDDR7 shortage, with Nvidia allegedly allocating memory to higher-margin GPUs. Meanwhile, AMD reportedly targets a 25% GPU market share in China, arguing for a shift back to GDDR6-based designs like RDNA 4 and ARC Battlemage if supply favors rivals. These remain rumors until official confirmation.

CES 2026: Povec C1 Electrochromic Sunglasses Debut at CES Unveiled

January 5, 2026, 5:28 AM EST. Live from CES Unveiled, Mashable previews showcased the Povec C1 sunglasses, a pair the cofounder Alexis Marc Pons calls the world's first electrochromic sunglasses. These sporty frames switch from tinted to untinted with a swipe of a finger along a panel on the temple, offering instant tint control without fiddling with buttons. The feature is designed to blend style with practical shade adaptation in bright environments, and it marks a notable moment for smart eyewear at CES 2026. The preview event highlighted a growing range of wearable tech and AI-powered gadgets, but the Povec C1 stood out for its seamless, finger-driven transition and the promise of on-the-go visual customization.

NVIDIA GeForce 591.67 Hotfix Drivers Fix SDR Banding, Digital Vibrance, and Tray Icon Bug

January 5, 2026, 5:26 AM EST. NVIDIA has released GeForce 591.67 Hotfix drivers to address issues that couldn't wait for the next WHQL release. The de-facto beta fixes include: a fix for slight banding on gradients in SDR color mode, colors not correctly applied when using Digital Vibrance, and a fix for being unable to disable the Show Notification Tray Icon in NVIDIA Control Panel. The patch targets critical visual and UI quirks until the official driver update arrives. Users can grab the driver from the provided link in the release notes.

Antennas in a Tree to Broadband Leader: Cajun Broadband Drives Louisiana's Rural Internet Push

January 5, 2026, 5:24 AM EST. From an antenna in a pine tree to a leading Louisiana broadband player, Cajun Broadband is at the forefront of rural internet expansion. Founded in 2017 by Chris Disher and Jimmy Lewis, the company has grown by digging deep into unmet demand and moving fast. It just secured $18.2 million BEAD funding to connect 4,000 homes and businesses and will break ground again this fall. Based in Broussard, it already delivers fiber internet around Acadiana near Lafayette. Named one of Inc. Magazine's fastest-growing companies in 2023, Cajun Broadband embodies the state's push to close the digital divide with nimble, local leadership.

Memory prices push Samsung to rethink Galaxy S26 pricing strategy

January 5, 2026, 5:12 AM EST. Samsung Electronics is weighing whether to raise the Galaxy S26 prices as DRAM and NAND costs surge, potentially pushing BoM up 8-15% and smartphone prices up ~6.9%. Industry trackers such as Omdia, TrendForce, and Counterpoint Research show LPDDR5 memory soaring ~70% and NAND storage up ~100% since early 2025. After holding Galaxy S25 prices last year, the company now leans toward a price hike, a move that may extend to its upcoming laptops if memory costs persist. An early plan with Exynos 2600 for the standard model was overshadowed by memory inflation, prompting higher pricing guidance and discussions of a long-term supply agreement with its memory unit.

Motorola Razr Fold leak hints at first book-style foldable phone

January 5, 2026, 5:10 AM EST. A leaked Lenovo presentation reportedly reveals Motorola's first book-style foldable, the Razr Fold, set to open like a book and compete with Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Google Pixel Fold. The slide promises brilliant displays, AI features, and an advanced camera system. The leak, shared by trusted tipster Evan Blass, notes the device as Motorola's first in the fold form factor with launch details expected later this year, possibly timed around major events such as CES 2026. While Lenovo's internal slides may shift, the leak signals Motorola expanding beyond clamshell Razr models toward a more ambitious foldable portfolio.

Samsung unveils 130-inch Micro RGB TV concept at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 4:52 AM EST. Samsung brought a full-blown concept for a 130-inch Micro RGB TV to CES 2026. The massive display, mounted on a full-screen stand that can tilt, evokes a reinvention of the brand's 'timeless gallery' design. Like LG's Micro RGB, it uses an evolved Mini LED approach to boost color accuracy and brightness. Samsung touts its Micro RGB AI Engine Pro with Micro RGB Color Booster Pro and Micro RGB HDR Pro to enhance dull tones and contrast. The set features Glare Free tech, HDR 10+ Advanced, and Eclipsa Audio, plus compatibility with Vision AI Companion, Microsoft Copilot, and Perplexity. It's a concept, not a product; last year's 115-inch model priced around $30,000. Real shipping or pricing remain unannounced, and Micro LED remains a tighter option for later.

Motorola Signature leaks reveal flagship-like specs, ultra-thin design, and 7-year updates

January 5, 2026, 4:22 AM EST. Motorola's upcoming 'Signature' smartphone is leaking as a true high-end contender. The device reportedly features a 6.8-inch LPTO AMOLED display with ultra-slim bezels and a 95% screen-to-body ratio, ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, and rumored stylus support. Internally it rocks up to 1TB UFS 4.1 storage, up to 16GB RAM, a 5,200 mAh silicon-carbon battery, 90W wired charging, and 50W wireless charging, all in a slim 6.99mm chassis. The camera setup is a triple 50MP array (including a Sony LYTIA 828 main sensor) plus a 50MP front camera. Software is notable: Android 16 out of the box with 7 years of security and OS updates. The only hitch is the chipset-Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 (not Elite). Expected release could be this week.

Sweekar: A Tamagotchi-like AI pocket pet debuts at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 4:20 AM EST. Takway's Sweekar pocket pet aims to be the 'Nintendo of the AI robot era,' unveiled at CES 2026. This Tamagotchi-like AI companion fits in a palm and features a face on a small screen, ears, and interchangeable shells. It remembers your voice and the activities you share, with mood and expressions shaped by care. Over four life stages, it grows from egg to baby to teen, then adult; at adulthood it can entertain itself autonomously and is unkillable from Level 51 on (hardware permitting). You'll feed, play, and outfit it with shells and outfits. Pricing isn't set yet, but expected around $100-$150, with a Kickstarter launch planned.

Pocket-size Magnetic Apple Watch Charger with Built-in 2000mAh Power Bank – On-the-Go Power for $17.97

January 5, 2026, 4:06 AM EST. Discover a pocket-size magnetic charger that doubles as a 2000mAh power bank for your Apple Watch and iPhone. No extra cables-just snap your watch in and top up on the go. Its compact design clips to keys or bags, keeping you ready when traveling or away from outlets. Compatible with all Apple Watch models and rechargeable via USB-C, it's a convenient, travel-friendly solution for long days. Grab the deal at $17.97 (reg. $59.95) while it lasts on StackSocial.

New Android device confirms Qi2 support for 2026 as Samsung, Pixel and more gear up

January 5, 2026, 3:34 AM EST. Qi2 support on Android has been sparse, with only Google's Pixel 10 family delivering it to a mass audience. Ahead of CES 2026, the new Clicks Communicator-an Android-based BlackBerry-style phone with a physical keyboard-confirms Qi2 support, despite interchangeable backplates. Clicks told 9to5Google that the device will work with proper Qi2 charging. If true, this would be the sixth Qi2 Android device after the HMD Skyline and the Pixel 10 lineup (10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, 10 Pro Fold), though the Clicks device remains a niche release. 2026 likely won't end there: Samsung's Galaxy S26 is expected to adopt Qi2, with foldables and more from Google's Pixel 11, and potential entries from Motorola, OnePlus, and Oppo. Where else should Qi2 appear in 2026?

The Deepfake Menace: How AI Doppelgängers Challenge Identity in a Techno-Feudal Era

January 5, 2026, 3:32 AM EST. An experiencer confronts the rise of deepfake videos that show his face and voice across YouTube, sometimes misrepresenting political views. He shares how attempts to have videos removed from big tech platforms like Google and Meta failed, only to reappear under new guises. The piece frames the phenomenon as a symptom of technofeudalism, where individuals lose ownership of their data, memory, and identity to cloud-fiefdoms. The author questions whether the liberal/individual self is obsolete when AI-generated likenesses can be weaponized by others, turning digital labor into rent on someone's likeness. The essay invites readers to consider governance, platform responsibility, and the ethical implications of AI-enabled manipulation that erodes trust and distorts political discourse.

CES 2026: Belkin Unveils Magnetic Ring Power Bank, Modular Dock, and More Charging Accessories

January 5, 2026, 3:16 AM EST. Belkin unveils Qi2/Qi2.2 fast chargers and magnetic power banks at CES 2026. Highlights include the UltraCharge Pro Power Bank 10K with a Magnetic Ring for wallets or stands, delivering up to 25W wireless and 30W wired charging, pass-through charging, a built-in kickstand, and a digital display (Feb 2026). The UltraCharge Modular Charging Dock adds a 3-in-1 wireless/puck system with spacers for Apple Watch, Galaxy Watch, or Pixel Watch (Q1 2026). The BoostCharge Slim Magnetic Power Banks with Stand (5K/10K) offer up to 15W wireless and 20-30W USB-C, with integrated stands (Q2 2026). The UltraCharge Pro Laptop Power Bank 27K delivers up to 240W total and up to 140W to laptops (Mar 2026). Also announced: 2-in-1 Convertible Charger and ConnectAir Wireless HDMI Display Adapter.

Withings Body Scan 2 launches as a longevity-focused smart scale with 60 biomarkers

January 5, 2026, 3:02 AM EST. Withings returns to CES 2026 with the Body Scan 2, a $599.95 smart scale pitched as a longevity station. It adds eight scale electrodes plus four retractable-hand electrodes to capture upper-body data, aiming for more accuracy than foot-only scales. Beyond weight and basics, it tracks over 60 biomarkers across categories like heart function, hypertension risk, artery health, cellular/metabolic health, and glycemic regulation, plus a 90-second 'longevity assessment.' To keep users engaged, it offers a digestible Health Trajectory score to visualize healthspan. The scale uses a noninvasive approach-bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) and foot sweat-instead of routine blood tests. Withings positions the Body Scan 2 as a daily health barometer for cardiovascular and metabolic wellness, complementing wearables and labs.

HONOR's Robot Phone with a built-in camera gimbal aims for MWC 2026 launch

January 5, 2026, 3:00 AM EST. HONOR is showing off a smartphone with a built-in camera gimbal at CES, aiming for a formal launch at MWC 2026. The Robot Phone uses an articulated arm with real-time sensor feedback to deliver Steadicam-like stabilization, a concept still being finalized. The gimbal folds into a surprisingly large storage cavity, complete with a sliding shutter to protect the hardware, and it can deploy automatically when needed. On the software side, HONOR envisions use cases like a AI-powered outfit fit check and a phone that follows you as you move. Production timing targets a release a month or two after the March reveal, with many specs yet to be confirmed.

NYU Professor Uses AI Oral Exams to Outsmart AI-Written Assignments

January 5, 2026, 2:46 AM EST. An NYU professor is testing AI-powered oral exams to counter the rise of AI-written assignments. The approach pairs quick, spontaneous questions with follow-ups, evaluating true understanding over static essays. The method raises questions about academic integrity, assessment design, and the role of education technology in the classroom. Proponents say it pressures students to think critically and reveals gaps that AI-generated work can mask. Critics warn it may be resource-intensive, affect privacy, and could disadvantage students who lack confidence or language support. The story highlights a broader shift toward hybrid assessment models, prompting universities to rethink rubrics, proctoring, and staffing. As AI becomes more capable, instructors may need durable strategies that combine oral exams, project work, and ongoing feedback to ensure genuine learning.

TCL's Note A1 Nxtpaper blends digital paper with LCD at 120Hz for distraction-free productivity

January 5, 2026, 2:44 AM EST. TCL announced the Note A1 Nxtpaper, a digital paper tablet that uses a hybrid Nxtpaper LCD for full color at 120Hz in an ultra-thin 5.5mm chassis. By pairing the Nxtpaper Pure digital paper tech with an LCD, TCL delivers vibrant color and no ghosting while preserving a distraction-free aesthetic. Aimed at professionals, students, and creatives, it adds office-ready features like AI meeting transcriptions, real-time translations, and one-tap summaries, plus wireless screen casting and easy file sharing across Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive on the same Wi-Fi. The notebook-style design houses an 11.5-inch display and an 8,000mAh battery, with 3A Crystal Shield Glass for glare reduction and eye comfort. It positions the Note A1 against ReMarkable and Kindle Scribe as a productivity-focused digital paper option.

Withings Body Scan 2 gains 60 biomarkers, hypertension and cellular health tests

January 5, 2026, 2:42 AM EST. At CES 2026, Withings unveiled Body Scan 2, a second-generation smart scale that expands from 40 to 60 biomarkers. The upgrade adds Impedance Cardiography (ICG) to measure the heart's pumping capacity and Bioimpedance Spectroscopy (BIS) to assess total body water, cellular age, active cell mass, and metabolic efficiency. Coupled with the company's clinically validated AI model, the device aims to predict hypertension risk, monitor glycemic regulation, and guide users toward improved healthspan. A hardware tweak moves the scale's display into the retractable ECG handle, a small but notable change. Withings targets FDA clearance in Q2 2026 and a premium price around $599.95, €499.95, or £449.95 depending on region.

CEO of AI Startup Says Artificial Data Won't Take Over for Decades

January 5, 2026, 2:28 AM EST. An AI startup CEO argues that artificial data will not replace real data for decades. The interview frames synthetic data as a valuable addition, not a wholesale substitute, stressing ongoing needs for real-world datasets, human oversight, and robust data governance. While the hype around AI accelerates, industry observers are urged to balance experimentation with risk management, bias mitigation, and rigorous evaluation. The executive suggests a phased approach: leverage synthetic data to augment training, validate models, and simulate scenarios, but continue collecting authentic data to maintain accuracy and reliability.

Lockin's V7 Max: vein-scanning smart lock with wireless optical charging and built-in video doorbell

January 5, 2026, 2:12 AM EST. Lockin unveils the V7 Max, a vein-scanning smart lock that eliminates battery anxiety through wireless optical charging via AuraCharge. Placed inside the home within four meters of the lock, the transmitter powers the lock with eye-safe light, and if it's unplugged, the device runs for hours. The design, by Hartmut Esslinger, offers biometric unlock options: finger vein, palm vein, and 3D facial recognition, and features a built-in video doorbell, two outer cameras, and dual five-inch touchscreens. Compatible with the Matter protocol, it works with Google, Apple, Amazon, and Samsung ecosystems. LockinAI handles delivery logging and safety monitoring ideas, though some claims may require internal cameras. Lockin is also updating the Veno Pro with the same wireless tech. Availability is via preorder with shipping expected early this year; price isn't announced yet.

Ultraloq Bolt Sense unlocks with face and palm vein tech; HaLow cameras debut at CES

January 5, 2026, 1:58 AM EST. At CES, Ultraloq unveiled the Bolt Sense, a compact smart deadbolt that combines facial recognition with palm vein authentication for touch-free access, avoiding an app. Vein scanning is touted as more reliable than fingerprints and works in the dark. The Bolt Sense includes built-in Wi-Fi and plans for Matter support, with shipping expected in Q2. The company also teased the Latch 7 Pro (Q1) supporting Matter-over-Thread and Aliro. On the camera side, the Ulticam IQ V2 adds Matter compatibility, while the Ulticam HaLow uses Wi-Fi HaLow (802.11ah) for extended range, potentially up to 0.6 miles, via a dedicated hub. A new Ulticam IQ Floodlight pairs AI with 2,000-lumen floodlights, though its standard Wi-Fi lacks the HaLow range.

Potential Native Linux Support for NVIDIA GeForce NOW Teased for CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 1:56 AM EST. Speculation from VideoCardz suggests NVIDIA's GeForce NOW could gain official Linux support, replacing current unofficial workarounds used by desktop Linux gamers. No timeline or technical details have been released yet; more information is expected at CES 2026. If true, native support could boost Linux gaming, which Valve's latest survey pegs at around 3.2%. The move would also align with a PR-friendly narrative as NVIDIA enforces a 100-hour-per-month limit on all GeForce NOW subscriptions starting January 1, 2026. However, NVIDIA has not confirmed anything yet, so readers should wait for official word from CES week.

Intel CES 2026 Live: Panther Lake Core Ultra Series 3 Debuts, 18A Process, AI Updates

January 5, 2026, 1:42 AM EST. Intel's CES 2026 keynote is set to unveil the next-gen Panther Lake CPUs, the Core Ultra Series 3, powered by Intel's new 18A process. The event will showcase final SKUs, specs, and partner systems built around Panther Lake, including laptops, Mini PCs, and handhelds, plus new Xe3 GPUs and platform updates from Tech Tour 2025. In addition to Panther Lake, Intel is expected to refresh the Arrow Lake desktop and laptop CPUs, roll out an updated AI portfolio (hardware and software), and tease GPUs in the Arc lineup, such as the anticipated Arc B770. The live launch features Jim Johnson and is scheduled for Monday, January 5 at 3:00 p.m. PST in Las Vegas, with full coverage through CES 2026.

Analysis: AI-driven inflation could be 2026's unseen market risk, investors say

January 5, 2026, 1:40 AM EST. Investors warn that a fresh wave of inflation driven by the AI investment boom could derail 2026's market rally. Even as U.S., European and Asian equities hit highs on AI optimism and expectations for rate cuts, strategists warn that tighter policy could prick the bubble. A slowdown in money growth would dampen appetite for speculative tech, raise funding costs for AI projects, and drag profits and stock prices lower. The hyperscale race by Microsoft, Meta and Alphabet to build data centers boosts energy use and chip costs, intensifying price pressures. Analysts say US CPI may stay above the Fed's 2% target into 2027 amid heavy corporate AI investment, despite improving labor markets. Some warn that ending rate-cutting cycles could spread inflation risks into markets.

Lockin Debuts Vein-Recognition Smart Lock with Wireless Optical Charging at CES

January 5, 2026, 1:26 AM EST. Lockin's CES reveal, the V7 Max, is a vein-recognition smart lock with a built-in doorbell camera. It charges wirelessly via an optical infrared beam from a small wall transmitter up to four meters away, with a receptor on the lock converting light to power. The mortise-style device requires professional installation and features a touchscreen, two cameras, and AI recognition. Unlocks by palm/finger vein or 3D facial recognition, and streams video to major ecosystems (Google, Apple, Amazon, Samsung). Lockin's app handles advanced AI tasks like package-delivery prompts. A cheaper variant omits video but keeps wireless charging; flagship price is undisclosed, shipping planned for July-August, with a $350 model due in April.

Reddit's Strip Mall Shift: AI, Ads, and Business Risks in 2026

January 5, 2026, 1:20 AM EST. Reddit has evolved from niche forums into a 'strip mall' of the web, where diverse communities are bundled under advertising and AI-driven curation. The move toward centralized monetization followed its 2024 IPO and a 2025 surge in ad revenue, with Deloitte noting platforms shifting from experimentation to impact. Critics warn that niche data is scraped to train AI, threatening forum culture and authenticity. For businesses, the shift signals new opportunities in targeted promotions, merchant integrations, and data-enabled strategies, but it also raises risks around data privacy, monetization ethics, and potential monoculture. As Reddit leans into premium features and scalable content systems, brands must navigate changing user expectations and governance concerns while leveraging AI to optimize engagement without eroding trust.

Beats iPhone 17 Case with MagSafe & Camera Control – from $12.99, 71% Off

January 5, 2026, 1:00 AM EST. Beats iPhone 17 Case with MagSafe and Camera Control is on sale from $12.99, with discounts up to 71% off. Most colors and sizes are deeply discounted, including the Beats iPhone 17 Pro Max Case. The case features a matte exterior, a microfiber interior, and a polycarbonate back for protection, plus flexible sidewalls for shock absorption. Built-in magnets ensure precise MagSafe alignment and wireless charging, while Camera Control translates finger movements to the camera. Packaging is fiber-based and responsibly sourced. Prime members receive free shipping. For more options, check our roundup of the best iPhone cases of 2025.

LG CES 2026: Ultra-thin Wallpaper OLED, Gallery Art TVs, and Micro RGB Displays

January 5, 2026, 12:58 AM EST. LG's CES 2026 lineup pivots around an ultra-thin Wallpaper OLED TV (the W6) with wireless power and a single One Connect box, making cables vanish from view. It promises the best OLED performance with features like Hyper Radiant Color, Brightness Booster Ultra, a reflection-free screen, and the Alpha 9 Gen 3 CPU with an NPU that sharpens upscaling and image processing. LG even touts built-in generative AI features via Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini. On the art side, the new Gallery TV targets museum curation with Gallery Mode that tailors brightness and contrast for artwork, magnetic bezels, anti-reflective glass, and Mini LED panels to curb burn-in-competing with Samsung's Frame. LG also teases a Micro RGB TV.

Alibaba's Kunlunxin Spin-Off and Cloud Push Reframes AI Investment Narrative

January 5, 2026, 12:56 AM EST. Alibaba Group plans to spin off its AI chip unit Kunlunxin and list it in Hong Kong in early 2027, while expanding Qwen integrations and AI workloads across Alibaba Cloud. This move signals a reorganization around AI infrastructure to support enterprise and developer services. The article examines how the Kunlunxin spin-off could reshape Alibaba's AI investment narrative and its longer-term cloud monetization. Alibaba has pledged to invest at least RMB 380 billion into AI and cloud over three years, with Kunlunxin's listing and the Qwen rollout nested in this capex. How effectively Alibaba converts that spend into paying cloud and AI workloads will influence investor views of the spin-off and related catalysts. Near-term profitability remains a risk due to heavy AI/cloud outlays, but execution in higher-margin cloud services could drive durable growth.

3 Best Artificial Intelligence Stocks to Buy in January

January 5, 2026, 12:52 AM EST. AI is the hottest stock-market trend, and the article spotlights three names: Nvidia (NVDA), the leader in AI infrastructure whose GPUs and CUDA software ecosystem power data centers; Broadcom (AVGO), expanding with customizing AI chips and serving big customers like Alphabet; and TSMC, poised to share in Nvidia's and Broadcom's AI success through its fabrication capacity. Nvidia's moat includes NVLink networking and a growing ecosystem around CUDA, while Broadcom's ASIC focus complements GPUs and taps into high-growth AI workloads. Citi's forecast shows multi-billion AI revenue in fiscal 2026-2027, underscoring the upside as cloud providers, LLMs, and hyperscalers increase AI spending in January and beyond.

CES 2026 Preview: The Global Event's Most Anticipated Tech

January 5, 2026, 12:42 AM EST. From AI chips and robotics to immersive AR/VR, electric mobility, and sustainability-focused gadgets, CES 2026 is shaping up to showcase a wave of transformative tech. Expect breakthroughs in consumer electronics, smart home ecosystems, and cloud-connected devices, plus industry shifts in 5G/6G, edge computing, and cybersecurity for connected devices. Automotive tech and autonomous systems are likely to take center stage, alongside wearable sensors, health tech, and next-gen gaming hardware. Startups will highlight disruptive platforms, while established giants push AI-driven software and integrated ecosystems. The show will also spotlight sustainability, energy efficiency, and responsible manufacturing. If you're watching for trends, look for cross-cutting themes: AI acceleration, privacy and security, open ecosystems, and interoperability across devices.

Pebble Time Round Debuts at CES with Weeks-Long Battery, Eric Migicovsky at the Wrist

January 5, 2026, 12:40 AM EST. At CES, the Pebble Time Round surfaces on Eric Migicovsky's wrist as Pebble reboot pushes its early smartwatch line with dramatically longer battery life-measured in weeks rather than days. A hands-on moment confirms the buttons click, signaling Pebble's return to its tactile smartwatch roots while preserving the signature e-ink display. The revival centers on delivering extended endurance to win back wearables fans amid the CES buzz.

FUTR and Realbotix Partner to Bring AI Agents into Physical Robotics

January 5, 2026, 12:36 AM EST. FUTR announces a strategic partnership with Realbotix to integrate its AI Agents with humanoid robotics, enabling a physical interface beyond screens. The pilot, effective January 2026, links the FUTR App to Realbotix's robotic platform, allowing users to manage data, automate financial and lifestyle tasks, and earn value through FUTR's privacy-first, token-enabled ecosystem. The collaboration aims to deliver a secure, interactive interface with voice and movement, bridging digital and physical experiences. The initial pilot is planned for H1 2026, after which the partners will evaluate results and expand opportunities, including developing FUTR-branded robots, API integration, and joint marketing content.

Belkin's Charging Case Pro for Nintendo Switch 2 with LCD battery readout debuts at CES 2026

January 5, 2026, 12:10 AM EST. Belkin debuts the Charging Case Pro for the Nintendo Switch 2 at CES 2026, pairing a 10,000mAh power bank with a built-in LCD screen to show remaining battery life. The case also serves as a sturdy tabletop stand, adds a dedicated game-card flap, and hides a compartment for smart trackers, boosting security. Built for premium materials and long-term durability, it features a front oval cutout for the battery indicator and USB-C port. Available now in off-white, sage, and dark grey for $100, with Belkin also showing other charging accessories like the UltraCharge Pro Power Bank. The package marks a notable upgrade over the original while still prioritizing portability and protection.

LG Wallpaper OLED TV returns as W6 with wireless Zero Connect Box at CES

January 5, 2026, 12:08 AM EST. LG revives its ultra-thin Wallpaper OLED with the W6, returning six years after the first model. The panel is about 9mm thick and sits flush on the wall thanks to a redesigned mount, plus a new Zero Connect Box to run cables remotely (TV still needs power). The wireless link can extend up to 10 meters. New Hyper Radiant Color Technology improves blacks, color accuracy, and overall brightness, while Reflection Free with Premium certification reduces glare. Look for Brightness Booster Ultra on the W6 (and LG G6) to push peak brightness further. With Gallery+ for ambient art, the W6 supports up to 165Hz, AMD FreeSync Premium, and G-Sync compatibility in 77- and 83-inch sizes.

Investors Wary of AI Valuations: Palantir and CrowdStrike Highlight Frothy Premiums

January 5, 2026, 12:06 AM EST. Investors say overvaluation is one of the biggest risks in the AI rally, spotlighting Palantir and CrowdStrike as two of the most richly priced AI names. Palantir trades at a forward P/S around 67x 2025 estimates and 49x 2026, far above historical SaaS multiples, even as its AI Platform and customer growth accelerate. CrowdStrike is showing improved revenue growth but still commands a lofty multiple, raising sensitivity to multiple setbacks. The Motley Fool notes that most AI stocks are reasonably valued, yet these two stand out for their premiums. Palantir's U.S. government and commercial demand, its AIP launch, and strong retention support its growth story, but valuation could pin the stock if growth slows. In any case, the AI rally will test whether pricing can catch up to fundamentals.

ASUS Ascent GX10 Review: A Compact NVIDIA GB10 Mini-PC for DGX Spark Dev Workloads

January 5, 2026, 12:04 AM EST. Back at GTC 2025, NVIDIA announced the DGX Spark mini-PC AI workstation and opened the GB10 design to OEM partners. The ASUS Ascent GX10 is one of the latest boxes built around the GB10 SoC, delivering a compact SFF PC with soldered hardware. Key specs include a GB10 Superchip with a Blackwell GPU (48 SMs), 128GB LPDDR5X memory, and an OS tailored for NVIDIA's DGX OS. Storage ranges from 1TB to 4TB PCIe 5.0 NVMe, with a 240W external USB-C PSU. Networking includes ConnectX-7 200Gbps Ethernet and 10GbE, plus Wi-Fi 7 (2×2) and Bluetooth 5.4. The system's tight configuration leash reflects the soldered design, but the 1TB model can offer substantial savings vs 4TB. Ideal for developers prototyping AI workloads on GB10.

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