Technology News 07.01.2026

Xiaomi's Leica-backed smartphone adds tactile Master Zoom Ring

January 7, 2026, 8:12 PM EST. Xiaomi's 17 Ultra by Leica introduces a physical Master Zoom Ring, a tactile dial designed to improve smartphone photography UX. The ring can control zoom, focus, exposure, white balance, ISO, shutter speed, or filters, functioning like a traditional SLR. The phone carries Leica glass: 23 mm-equivalent 50 MP main, 75-100 mm-equivalent 200 MP telephoto, and 14 mm-equivalent 50 MP ultra-wide. Xiaomi markets the feature as a remedy for awkward pinching and tapping. The device launched in China around Christmas for about $1,200; there are no current plans to release it in the U.S. or outside China. Some observers say Apple lags in this space and the innovation could pressure rivals.

Websites face load issues as JavaScript blocks access

January 7, 2026, 8:04 PM EST. Clients face a roadblock when a page reports: JavaScript is disabled in your browser. The message underscores how essential site functions rely on this scripting language that runs in the browser. A common trigger is a browser extension or ad blockers. Network issues or strict settings can also block scripts. Users are urged to check their connection, disable ad blockers, or try a different browser. If the problem persists, site owners may need a non-JavaScript fallback or progressive enhancement. The result is load failures, interrupted sessions, and a call for clearer error messaging.

10 Cloud Computing Startups to Watch in 2026

January 7, 2026, 7:48 PM EST. Cloud startups to watch in 2026 mix AI ambitions with infrastructure needs. Armada in San Francisco rolled out Bridge, a software that federates distributed GPU clusters while preserving data residency and compliance for governments and research institutions. CloudEagle, Echo, and The San Francisco Compute Co. push platforms that track AI apps inside SaaS stacks, offer AI-powered container images free of common vulnerabilities, and optimize large-scale GPU deployments. Investors piled into the space in 2025, with firms like Microsoft's M12 backing Armada in a $131 million round. Gartner forecasts global IT spend near $6.08 trillion in 2026, underscoring demand for cloud tools that cut cost, speed AI delivery, and simplify scaling. The list defines startups as founded within five years, highlighting newcomers reshaping cloud infrastructure, applications, and security.

Nvidia signals 'the future is neural rendering' at CES 2026 as DLSS upgrades hint at AI-led graphics era

January 7, 2026, 7:42 PM EST. At CES 2026, Nvidia did not unveil new GPUs, instead spotlighted the Vera Rubin AI supercomputer. DLSS 4.5 and MFG 6X debuted, underscoring a shift toward AI-powered rendering. In a Las Vegas Q&A, CEO Jensen Huang was asked if the RTX 5090 remains the fastest traditional raster GPU; he replied that predicting the future is hard, and the future is neural rendering, essentially an evolved DLSS. He warned that imagery could be generated across a spectrum-from photo-real to cartoon-at high frame rates, as DLSS matures. Huang suggested further AI work on fewer, higher-quality pixels and teased utterly shocking lab developments. The discussion touched AI-driven NPCs via Nvidia ACE platform, with neural techniques increasingly embedded in real-time rendering.

iPhone crash detection helps police locate deadly Overland Park crash

January 7, 2026, 7:40 PM EST. Smartphone crash-detection software helped police locate a deadly crash in Overland Park, Kansas, after the device automatically called 911 and shared location data. When a user calls emergency with a smartphone, the system displays the caller's whereabouts and enables an open line to responders even if the phone is out of reach. Johnson County Sheriff's Sergeant Roy Castle said the feature reports a sudden stop, plays a crash recording, and provides latitude and longitude for dispatch. The technology speeds response on isolated roads and reduces ambiguity when witnesses are scarce. In Johnson County, about 300 automated crash-detection calls trigger units each year. Data can flow through Rapid SOS to the county Emergency Call Center, aiding ambulances and fire crews, with steps to enable Emergency SOS.

iPhone crash-detection helps police locate deadly Overland Park crash

January 7, 2026, 7:38 PM EST. A smartphone's automated crash-detection feature helped police reach a fatal crash in Overland Park, Kansas, after the device automatically called 911. The system provides responders with the caller's latitude and longitude and opens a two-way line to victims, even if the phone is out of reach. Johnson County officials say about 300 such automated calls prompt emergency dispatch each year. The feature is enabled in Emergency SOS settings, including an option to call after a severe crash to aid location and victim contact. Data can be shared with Rapid SOS, linking phones to the county emergency call center. The technology is especially valuable on isolated roads at night when witnesses are scarce.

Utah allows AI to autonomously refill prescriptions

January 7, 2026, 7:34 PM EST. Utah is piloting an autonomous AI system to refill prescriptions, with the first 250 renewals per drug class reviewed by real doctors. After that, the AI chatbot would operate independently, designed to err on the side of safety and escalate uncertain cases to clinicians. Doctronic co-founder Adam Oskowitz told Politico that safety comes first. Utah Department of Commerce executive director Margaret Woolley Busse called it a balance between innovation and consumer protection. The FDA's role remains unclear; prescription renewals sit at the intersection of state medical practice and federal device regulation, Politico notes. Critics, including Robert Steinbrook of Public Citizen, say autonomous refilling and naming the AI as a doctor risks undermining human clinicians and warrants federal oversight.

Utah allows AI to autonomously prescribe medication refills

January 7, 2026, 7:28 PM EST. Utah will let an AI chatbot renew medications for most drug classes, with the first 250 renewals per class reviewed by real doctors. After that, the AI handles renewals unless a case escalates. Doctronic co-founder Adam Oskowitz, a UCSF professor, says the system should err on safety and escalate uncertainty to a clinician. Utah officials call it a balance between innovation and safety. The FDA's role remains unclear; prescription renewals are state-regulated, though the agency has said it can regulate medical devices used to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease. Critics from Public Citizen warn that autonomous refills could occur without proper oversight, risking undercutting the human clinician's role.

US expands drone ban as FCC adds foreign-made models to Covered List

January 7, 2026, 7:02 PM EST. The United States expanded its drone ban after December 2025, placing nearly all foreign-made models on the FCC's Covered List. Existing devices that received prior FCC authorization can continue to operate; new models from outside the U.S. face automatic restriction. The policy centers on fears that user data could be accessed by the Chinese government through certain brands, notably DJI. Regulators did not trigger an audit of DJI before the deadline, prompting concerns about enforcement timing and effectiveness. Analysts say the move could upend the consumer-drone market, narrowing choices and raising costs for hobbyists and commercial operators alike. DJI has not publicly commented in detail, while the broader industry braces for a slower, more domestic-leaning market.

Trade Desk CEO Jeff Green predicts 2026 will be the best year yet for the open internet

January 7, 2026, 6:58 PM EST. At CES, The Trade Desk CEO Jeff Green said 2026 will be the open internet's strongest year yet, driven by advances in AI and clearer measurement. He argued brands will shift ad dollars away from walled gardens toward premium web inventory, as tools prove more capable of delivering tangible returns. Green framed 2025 as a turning point after upheaval in the ad-tech sector, citing the U.S. Department of Justice's monopoly ruling against Google and rising pressure to prove AI ROI. The forecast treats 2026 as the culmination of industry shifts, with marketers seeking accountable performance from independent platforms rather than closed ecosystems.

AI stocks vs Tesla: three AI bets outperform the EV leader in 2025

January 7, 2026, 6:52 PM EST. Tesla loses its crown as the world's largest EV maker to BYD. Its shares hover around $431, near an all-time high. For roughly the same cost as two Tesla shares, you could buy one share each of Alphabet, Micron Technology and Vertiv Holdings for about $805. In 2025, the trio outpaced Tesla: Alphabet up about 66.5%, Vertiv 54.5%, and Micron Technology 275%, vs. Tesla's 8.5%. Revenue growth was modest: Alphabet 10.2%, Vertiv 21%, Micron Technology 35.1%, while Tesla revenue fell about 2.1% and profits tumbled 27.8%. The AI beneficiaries also posted solid earnings gains. Still, past performance is not a predictor of future results. The takeaway: some investors favor AI exposure, but risk remains, and price alone may mask fundamentals.

LinkedIn reinstates Artisan AI after brief ban over name use and data-scraping

January 7, 2026, 6:44 PM EST. LinkedIn briefly restricted Artisan AI, the San Francisco startup behind the outbound AI Ava and its "Stop hiring humans" campaigns. The company said LinkedIn lifted the restrictions after two weeks of discussions; officials denied the ban was for spamming, citing disputes over using LinkedIn's name on Artisan's site and data-scraping by data brokers, which violates LinkedIn's terms. CEO Jaspar Carmichael-Jack said the enforcement team contacted them and they disappeared from the platform during review; after removing LinkedIn references and ensuring partners comply with policies, Artisan was reinstated. The episode highlights friction between rapid AI sales tools and platform rules, as LinkedIn remains a key venue for outbound marketing for both humans and AI. Artisan is a YC alum.

Logitech cites 'inexcusable mistake' after certificate expiry breaks macOS Logi Options+ and G HUB

January 7, 2026, 6:40 PM EST. Logitech said an expired Developer ID certificate caused its macOS configuration apps, Logi Options+ and G HUB, to fail to launch, locking users out of custom scrolling, button mappings and gestures on MX Master mice and MX Keys keyboards. The expiry triggered macOS to block the apps, sometimes causing boot loops. Logitech later released a patch for macOS versions 13 through 15 and Sonoma and later, but users must install it manually because the cert also disabled the apps' auto-updaters. Older macOS versions will receive a fix later. The company apologized on Reddit, saying, 'We dropped the ball here. This is an inexcusable mistake.' Early reports suggested user profiles and settings survived the manual patch, according to Logitech.

Starship Flight 12 looms in Texas as Florida debut targets 2026

January 7, 2026, 6:38 PM EST. SpaceX has not set a firm target for Starship's next flight, known as Flight 12, after 11 demonstrations from Starbase in Cameron County, Texas. The company is advancing a more capable version of Starship, following a busy 2025 that ended with the fifth and final Version 2 test launch. Officials have signaled a possible liftoff in January, but the FAA's latest operations plan does not list a launch date as of Jan. 7. SpaceX aims to eventually move Starship to Florida for a 2026 debut, widening operations beyond Texas. If successful, Starship would serve NASA's Artemis lunar program and, Musk has said, one day carry humans to Mars. Questions remain about timing, testing milestones, and the pace of Florida readiness.

Nvidia's Huang: Israel a 'magical' hub as company expands in Kiryat Tivon

January 7, 2026, 6:36 PM EST. LAS VEGAS – Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang used CES 2026 to stress Israel's central role in the company's footprint. Since the $6.9 billion acquisition of Mellanox in 2019, Nvidia's Yokneam campus has become its main Israeli hub, employing about 3,000 of the company's 5,000 Israeli staff. The company's market value sits near $4.55 trillion. Huang highlighted Israeli-origin chips: BlueField-4 DPU, ConnectX-9 SuperNIC, NVLink 6 Switch, and Spectrum-6 Ethernet Switch. He noted turnover in Israel at roughly 1-2% and decades-long ties staying with the firm, including staff with 20-25 years. He framed the culture as mission-driven: choosing impactful work. Nvidia is expanding with a new 160,000-square-meter campus in Kiryat Tivon, to house about 10,000 workers on 90 dunams of state land with tender exemption. Israel is a central node for AI, networking, and HPC development.

Google issues January Android Security Bulletin as Pixel fixes lag

January 7, 2026, 6:30 PM EST. Google has issued the January 2026 Android Security Bulletin, patching a critical vulnerability that could enable a zero-click attack via an audio file. The flaw can be exploited by manipulating the audio file's evolution data, potentially crashing players or allowing code execution when opened in a messenger app. Google had already patched the issue for Pixel devices in December, but a separate Pixel Update for January has not appeared, leaving other Pixel bugs unresolved, including reports of a display unresponsiveness on some Pixel 10 units. Android manufacturers may take longer to roll fixes, and updates are not on a fixed schedule. Google still urges users to install the latest security update when available, regardless of device.

AirPods Pro 3 price cut: $200 at Best Buy

January 7, 2026, 6:26 PM EST. Best Buy is selling the AirPods Pro 3 for $200, a $50 markdown from the usual price. The upgrade focuses on stronger noise isolation and ANC, with Parker Hall comparing them favorably to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2. The buds offer strong, detailed sound across genres, with better highs and lows and real-time translation when paired with iPhone via Apple Intelligence. They also include heartrate sensing, quick pairing and Siri integration. Fit improvements include thicker foam ear tips and an IP57 rating. Most features work best within Apple's ecosystem; Android users may not get the same experience. The deal makes the Pro 3 a tempting upgrade for AirPods Pro 2 owners who value ANC and software tricks.

Internet stocks may propel ETFs in 2026 as AI boosts gains in 2025

January 7, 2026, 6:16 PM EST. AI-related demand helped drive solid 2025 results for internet names, with Alphabet (GOOGL) among the standout mega-cap growth stocks. The performance shows how AI catalysts can lift broader tech indices and related ETFs. Analysts say funds with heavy internet exposure or a mega-cap tilt could capture more upside in 2026, though outcomes depend on AI demand, regulation and macro conditions. Alphabet's resilience amid ad-market shifts illustrates how a handful of large-cap players can steer ETF performance. Investors will watch revenue mix, cloud momentum and advertising trends as they evaluate bets on ETFs tied to AI and internet names.

Japan nuclear regulator loses phone with confidential data in China

January 7, 2026, 6:14 PM EST. A Japanese nuclear regulator said a work phone containing confidential information was lost during a personal trip to China. The device, not recovered, held the names and contact details of staff in the Nuclear Regulation Authority's nuclear security division. In filings with Japan's Personal Information Protection Commission, the agency said it cannot rule out the possibility of an information leak. The division oversees safeguarding nuclear materials at domestic facilities, and staff data are not public. The loss reportedly occurred at a Shanghai airport on Nov. 3, with the official realizing the phone was missing three days later and finding it could not be remotely locked or wiped. The NRA said staff with phones are required to carry them even abroad and is reviewing overseas smartphone rules to prevent a recurrence.

Clicks Communicator phone evokes BlackBerry-era nostalgia at CES

January 7, 2026, 6:10 PM EST. At CES, the Clicks Communicator strongly resembles late-2000s smartphones such as the BlackBerry and Palm Treo, prompting nostalgia for clicky keyboards. The design suggests a focus on tactile typing over glass. Eric Zeman of PCMag notes the device as a nostalgia play that could appeal to fans of physical keyboards, while describing it in the context of the show. The article underscores how retro form factors can coexist with modern mobile expectations, though it remains unclear how the device will stack up on performance and software.

Expired certificate breaks macOS Logitech apps; users must patch manually

January 7, 2026, 6:08 PM EST. Mac users relying on Logi Options+ and G Hub for macOS saw settings reset and apps fail to launch after a certificate expired. Logitech confirmed the issue on its support page and in posts by Joe Santucci, Head of Global Marketing, saying the certificate secures inter-process communications and its expiration prevents the software from starting. The company apologized, calling it an 'inexcusable mistake.' Patches with an updated certificate are available, but the built-in updater no longer works, so users must manually install the patch or updated app versions. If you use both apps, you must patch each one separately. Logitech says it is also preparing new builds to restore functionality.

Bose opens SoundTouch API ahead of end-of-life for home theater speakers

January 7, 2026, 6:06 PM EST. Bose released the API documentation for its SoundTouch speakers as it moves toward end-of-life for the Wi-Fi system. The company had warned devices would become dumb on February 18, leaving only AUX, HDMI or Bluetooth connections. After that date, the speakers would stop receiving security and software updates, lose cloud access, and drop the companion app, hindering music services and synchronized playback. Some customers criticized the practice of bricking older hardware. Bose later said AirPlay and Spotify Connect will continue after EoL, with AirPlay 2 enabling synchronized playback. The SoundTouch app will endure with reduced functionality. On May 6, 2026, the app will auto-update to support local-only features, requiring no user action.

Facer expands to RTOS watches, adds hourly chime with LVGL integration

January 7, 2026, 6:04 PM EST. At CES, Facer announced updates for its watch-face platform. The company said it is expanding to RTOS (real-time operating system) watches, with a pre-install on Reebok's upcoming Kinetic smartwatch, which runs VitalOS with MicroEJ VEE Wear. Facer is also partnering with open-source graphics library LVGL, enabling Facer faces on RTOS-based watches from brands including Xiaomi. The shift widens reach beyond smartphones to wearables. A new hourly chime feature adds a time-based notification option. The announcements underscore Facer's move to cross-platform compatibility, expanding its marketplace and customization across multiple hardware ecosystems.

Google, Character.AI settle lawsuits over minors harmed by AI chatbots

January 7, 2026, 6:00 PM EST. Google and Character.AI have agreed in principle to mediated settlements with families who sued over alleged harm to minors caused by AI chatbots. Court filings say the parties will stay the cases while they draft formal settlement documents. In one suit, Megan Garcia alleges her 14-year-old son Sewell Setzer III was harmed by a Character.AI chatbot, and claims negligence, wrongful death, deceptive trade practices and product liability. Settlements also involve families in Colorado, Texas and New York. The actions come as Google expands its AI push, including a $2.7 billion licensing deal in 2024 and the hiring of Character.AI founders Noam Shazeer and Daniel De Freitas to DeepMind. In October, Character.AI began restricting chats for users under 18.

iOS 26 adds new settings: Always On Display blur, camera swipe, Adaptive Power

January 7, 2026, 5:58 PM EST. iOS 26 introduces new customization in Settings. The Always On Display now blurs the wallpaper photo by default; users can disable this via Settings > Display & Brightness > Always On Display. The Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera can be turned off under Settings > Camera to prevent accidental launches. A new Adaptive Power mode appears under Settings > Battery > Power Mode > Adaptive Power. It trims performance only when battery usage spikes, aiming to extend life without immediate throttling. Users can opt to receive notifications when Adaptive Power activates. The changes offer practical choices for those who value either visuals or sustained performance on the iPhone.

Google Play Store tests 'Try before you buy' game trials, says APK teardown

January 7, 2026, 5:56 PM EST. Android Authority, in a teardown of Google Play Store version 49.6.19-29, found strings for a new 'Try before you buy' feature for games. The plan would let players try the full game for a set period-minutes, hours, or more-at no charge before purchasing. A 'Pick up where you left off' prompt and a one-time-use limit are noted, with a 'You already used the trial' message for repeats. The feature would initially target paid games on the Play Store, with potential to extend to freemium titles or paid apps. Google's plans remain unconfirmed; release timing and rollout are unknown. Some developers already offer similar demos, but a built-in option could broaden access if approved.

AI industry shifts away from AGI talk as 2026 outlook grows uncertain

January 7, 2026, 5:54 PM EST. Industry observers say 2026 marks a pivot away from marketing AGI as a near-term milestone. Artificial general intelligence-defined as an AI system that matches or surpasses human cognition across tasks-remains ill-defined, but the rhetoric is cooling. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said AGI is 'not a super useful term' as the company shifts toward autonomous research. Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff dismissed AGI as marketing hypnosis; Anthropic's Dario Amodei and Daniela Amodei have called the term outdated, and Microsoft's Satya Nadella questions its near-term achievement. Critics argue that LLMs-large language models-alone cannot reach AGI, citing studies from Apple and academic labs. The shift aligns with enormous investment in data centers and ongoing limits of current models rather than a collapse of ambition.

Oxford Economics: AI layoffs aren't driving mass unemployment; firms use AI narratives to mask traditional cuts

January 7, 2026, 5:50 PM EST. New research from Oxford Economics challenges the idea that AI is triggering mass unemployment. The briefing argues firms aren't replacing workers with AI on a meaningful scale and may be using AI as a cover for routine headcount reductions. The report suggests the motivation is investor relations: attributing cuts to AI paints a forward-looking story rather than admitting weak demand or over-hiring. Wharton's Peter Cappelli is cited on phantom layoffs that markets initially reward, though actual layoffs may differ from headlines. Data from Challenger, Gray & Christmas show AI-related cuts accounted for about 55,000 U.S. jobs in the first 11 months of 2025-roughly 4.5% of AI-related layoffs, with four times more losses from market and economic conditions. In context, AI-related job losses are still a small share of total churn in the labor market.

CES 2026: Nvidia DLSS 4.5 Upscaling Woes on Older RTX GPUs

January 7, 2026, 5:46 PM EST. At CES, Nvidia highlighted updates to DLSS 4.5 and dynamic frame generation, praising lighting improvements and efficiency. However, early tests show older GPUs-like the RTX 3080 Ti and other RTX 30-series cards-can see notable performance dips (up to ~24% in Cyberpunk 2077, ~14% in The Last of Us Part II). The issue appears tied to a new AI transformer model optimized for RTX 40/50-series, with DLSS 4.5 available to older cards but not recommended. Nvidia suggests hotfixes and presets, notably choosing Model M or Model L to stay stable, while Model K can revert to prior behavior. The situation matters for the most common cards (e.g., RTX 3060 on Steam).

Spotify adds real-time listening activity and Jam for collaborative listening in Messages

January 7, 2026, 5:42 PM EST. Spotify is expanding social features by integrating real-time listening activity into Messages and introducing a Jam option for collaborative listening. After enabling Listening Activity in Settings under Privacy & Social, friends' active tracks appear at the top of chats, letting you tap to play, save, or react. Premium users can initiate a Jam from the Messages interface; if accepted, both users share a queue and listen together. Rollout spans iOS and Android where Messages is available, with broad availability expected by early February. Listening Activity works for users with Messages; Free users can join a Jam when invited by Premium users. Note: Messages are encrypted at rest and in transit but not end-to-end encryption. This move aims to boost in-app retention by keeping sharing and playback inside Spotify.

15 Workers Share Why Their Jobs Are Completely Safe From AI Takeover

January 7, 2026, 5:40 PM EST. 15 workers weigh in on why their jobs are supposedly safe from AI takeover. In a mix of roles and industries, some argue that human factors-empathy, judgment, accountability, and policy-protect certain positions. One quote: 'Politicians. They will never give up their jobs to AI.' Another suggests 'CEOs' might be more replaceable by AI than many think, even as others warn such substitutions would miss essential human oversight. The piece underscores the nuance that safety from automation is often a perception tied to complexity, leadership, and governance, not a guarantee. Read on for diverse views on where AI could or could not displace workers, and what these beliefs reveal about work, risk, and the future of labor.

Dell admits consumers aren't buying AI PCs, signals shift away from AI-first strategy

January 7, 2026, 5:36 PM EST. Dell says the market isn't rewarding PCs with AI buzz, prompting a shift away from an "AI-first" strategy. In a pre-CES interview with PC Gamer, Dell executive Kevin Terwilliger said every 2026 device will still ship with an NPU and AI features, but consumer buying in 2026 isn't driven by AI. The company is focusing on delivering practical AI capabilities while avoiding overhyped marketing. Dell's partnership with Microsoft on Copilot Plus PCs and use of Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite chips for better battery life and performance are highlighted, but real benefits are from efficiency rather than flashy AI features. With this candid stance, Dell signals a broader industry trend: AI alone isn't the selling point for most buyers, and product decisions will prioritize user outcomes over AI branding.

Samsung patent reveals 360-degree hinge flip phone with inward and outward folding

January 7, 2026, 5:34 PM EST. Samsung's latest patent, spotted in the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) database, shows a flip-style foldable that can fold both inward and outward. The device lacks a dedicated cover screen, with sketches depicting a panel that can wrap around the back when opened and fold toward the inside when closed. A true 360-degree hinge would demand a highly complex mechanism capable of bends in both directions. The drawings also reveal the hinges placed away from the device center, keeping part of the screen exposed even when folded inward, and suggest a camera cutout on the back. Samsung typically demonstrates display tech at trade shows, so we may someday see a prototype. It remains uncertain whether the concept reaches production.

Chevrolet Equinox EV Is America's Top Non-Tesla EV of 2025

January 7, 2026, 5:32 PM EST. America's 2025 non-Tesla favorite is the Chevrolet Equinox EV, with 57,945 units sold, roughly double 2024. The model helped GM move nearly 170,000 EVs in the U.S. last year, a 48% jump from 2024, as the market benefited from accessible pricing and 300+ miles of range. The Equinox eclipsed the Ford Mustang Mach-E (51,620). Other top non-Teslas were the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (47,039) and Honda Prologue (39,194). In Q4, demand cooled as the EV tax credit ended, GM sold just 5,111 Equinoxes. Looking ahead to 2026, the lineup remains, with the Nissan Leaf and Chevy Bolt offering sub-$30k value, and the Rivian R2 as a major wildcard at ~$45k, aiming at the Model Y.

Nvidia's Jensen Huang Praises Serve Robotics at CES 2026 as Stock Bets Rise on 'Physical AI'

January 7, 2026, 5:30 PM EST. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang spotlighted Serve Robotics at CES 2026, prompting renewed investor interest in the autonomous sidewalk-delivery pioneer. Huang's praise of Serve's robot, and Nvidia's past stake movements, helped lift sentiment even as the stock has been volatile. Northland's Michael Latimore reiterated an outperform call with a $26 target, arguing the company's physical AI approach offers a strong ROI as its robots navigate public spaces. Analysts note Serve's expansion across major U.S. cities via partnerships with Uber Eats and DoorDash, and its milestone of deploying over 2,000 autonomous delivery units. With Oppenheimer's Colin Rusch initiating coverage and predicting a pivotal 2026 for revenue growth and margins, Serve Robotics remains a focal point for investors betting on last-mile automation and AI-driven scaling.

Alphabet tops Apple in market cap for first time since 2019 as AI push reshapes tech giants

January 7, 2026, 5:28 PM EST. Alphabet's market capitalization surpassed Apple's for the first time since 2019, closing at $3.88 trillion vs. Apple's $3.84 trillion. The inversion highlights diverging AI strategies: Alphabet has leaned into hardware and software with its AI chips (Ironwood, seventh-gen TPUs) and the Gemini 3 rollout, while Apple has lagged in the AI race and delayed its Siri overhaul. Alphabet's stock rose about 2% on the day, with a 65% rally in 2025 fueled by cloud deals and AI momentum. CEO Sundar Pichai has pointed to growing cloud demand, with more $1 billion-plus deals in 2025. Apple, facing downgrades (e.g., Raymond James) and a slower AI cadence, plans a more personal Siri in 2026 as the competition accelerates.

Apple's 25W MagSafe Charger Drops to $30 on Amazon

January 7, 2026, 5:24 PM EST. Apple's MagSafe charger is on sale at Amazon, now $30 for the 1-meter model and $40 for the 2-meter version. The Qi2.2-certified charger can deliver up to 25W when connected to a 30W power adapter. It supports iPhone 16, iPhone 17, and iPhone Air for the fastest charging, while older iPhones top out at 15W. It also works with AirPods wireless charging cases and is compatible with Qi charging. The deal highlights a sleek, cable-minimizing accessory to pair with recent iPhones. Follow @EngadgetDeals for the latest tech deals.

Android Lag Solved: Understanding and Managing Wi-Fi Scan Throttling

January 7, 2026, 5:22 PM EST. Struggling with app stutter or delayed taps on Android? The culprit may be a background feature called Wi-Fi scanning and its throttle setting. In short, Android scans for nearby networks to improve location accuracy and quick connectivity, but throttling reduces how often these scans occur. While throttling can save battery life and hide constant background activity, it can also make location updates slower and slow down apps that rely on frequent network checks. The article explains what this setting does, when you might notice the lag (like moving through malls or cafés), and the trade-offs: faster responsiveness vs. smoother battery life. If you've seen random stutters, adjusting this option might restore snappiness, with mindful consideration of your connectivity needs.

Trump Mobile's Golden Smartphone Faces Delays and Doubt as US-Made Claims Falter

January 7, 2026, 5:12 PM EST. In June 2025, Donald Trump Jr. launched Trump Mobile, offering a $47.45/mo MVNO and a $499 gold smartphone purportedly built in the United States. Experts quickly noted the device resembled a mid-tier Android from a Chinese vendor. By year's end, FT reported a launch delay for the T1, blamed on a government shutdown, and the Associated Press noted the site's shift from a hard US-made claim to an American-proud design tag. The practicality of US manufacturing is questioned as tariffs and higher costs make a US-built phone unlikely. Analysts warn a premium price tag would be hard to sustain. Meanwhile, Trump Mobile is reportedly selling used iPhones and Samsung Galaxy devices, with $100 deposits still collected, leaving open whether the T1 is vaporware or a controversial fundraising/marketing play.

Trump Mobile's Golden Smartphone Delays Highlight Doubts Over US-Made Pitch

January 7, 2026, 5:10 PM EST. Trump Mobile, the venture behind a $499 gold-colored smartphone and a US-based manufacturing claim, has stalled after promising a 2025 launch. The device, dubbed the T1, drew early skepticism as it resembled mid-tier Android handsets rather than a uniquely American product. The Financial Times said the launch was delayed by a government shutdown; the Associated Press noted a shift from an 'American-proud' design tagline to a more ambiguous claim. Analysts warn that a US-made smartphone faces prohibitive costs amid tariffs, with experts like Dan Ives doubting the feasibility of producing iPhones in the US. For now, Trump Mobile is selling used iPhones and Galaxy devices, while deposits of $100 linger and questions about vaporware persist.

Prediction: 4 Quantum Computing Stocks Set to Skyrocket in 2026

January 7, 2026, 5:06 PM EST. Quantum computing is a cutting-edge field with several players racing to commercial viability. The piece highlights Alphabet and Microsoft as well-funded competitors with vast cloud divisions, aiming to control costs and rent capacity once viable systems emerge. Nvidia enters as a key supporter through its dominant GPU ecosystem, while IonQ is cited for leading quantum error reduction. The author argues that while 2026 likely won't bring mainstream quantum computing, breakthroughs could reshape markets and benefit investors who diversify into these names. The analysis suggests these four stocks could outperform in 2026 thanks to synergies with AI, cloud infrastructure, and data-center strategies, even if pure-play quantum hardware remains a later-stage opportunity. Investors are urged to consider how cloud, AI, and device ecosystems intersect.

Lenovo Unveils Space Frame Modular ThinkPads at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 5:04 PM EST. Lenovo debuts the Space Frame modular design on the X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition and X1 2-in-1 Gen 11 Aura Edition at CES 2026. The design lets you replace the battery, keyboard, fans, speakers, and USB ports by removing the bottom panel and keyboard, though the RAM remains soldered. The chassis uses up to 75% recycled aluminum and 90% recycled magnesium with plastic-free packaging, and a two-sided motherboard that frees space for a larger haptic touchpad and improved airflow. Specs include Core Ultra X7 Series 3 CPUs, Intel Arc B390 graphics, up to 64GB soldered RAM, 2TB SSD, and a 2.8K OLED display with a 10MP webcam. Availability in March; prices start at $1,999 for the X1 Carbon Aura and $2,149 for the X1 2-in-1 Aura.

Xfinity Expands Multi-Gigabit Internet to Centreville

January 7, 2026, 5:02 PM EST. Xfinity is expanding in Centreville, connecting over 2,300 homes and businesses to multi-gigabit, symmetric internet via its converged WiFi network. As a new connectivity provider, Xfinity will bundle internet, mobile, entertainment, and smart home services to deliver more speed, savings, and control for residents. Centreville Town Council President Ashley Kaiser calls it a 'major win' that gives residents essential digital tools. The rollout underscores Comcast's investment in Centreville and its aim to offer a competitive option for broadband services.

Ouroboros: A Repairable Smartwatch Concept at CES 2026 Challenges the Status Quo

January 7, 2026, 4:58 PM EST. At CES 2026, Cambridge Consultants unveiled Ouroboros, a smartwatch concept designed to be easily repairable without sacrificing design or waterproofing. Using the Garmin Fenix 7 as a reference, the team rearchitected the interior so the battery is accessible and removable under the back cover, and added a hinge at the rear to enable opening. A line of test pins beneath the battery would allow quick triage of issues without full disassembly. The project aims to showcase that sustainability and product longevity can align with business interests, echoing trends in right-to-repair legislation and examples like Lenovo's ThinkPads with iFixit. While wearables makers like Google with Pixel Watch 4 are exploring this, widespread adoption remains uneven, with Ouroboros pushing the conversation forward.

Anker unveils new CES 2026 chargers, docks and accessories

January 7, 2026, 4:54 PM EST. Anker unveils a new lineup of smart chargers and docks at CES 2026, including the Nano Charger with smart display delivering up to 45W and identifying the connected iPhone model for precise power. It uses three-stage power delivery and a Care Mode to keep batteries cooler. The Prime Wireless Charging Station (3-in-1) with AirCool provides up to 25W of Qi2 charging and folds for travel. A clamp-on 10-in-1 Nano Power Strip offers 70W with two USB-C, two USB-A and six AC outlets. The 13-in-1 Nano Docking Station supports up to three displays, up to 100W upstream charging and 10 Gbps data transfer, with a removable 6-in-1 hub for SD/microSD and USB-C. Availability: late January 2026; prices from about $40-$150.

Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Headphones Hit Major Discount on Amazon

January 7, 2026, 4:52 PM EST. Luxurious Bowers & Wilkins Px8 headphones are heavily discounted on Amazon in several elegant finishes. They pack premium materials and a listening experience powered by 40-mm carbon-cone drivers, delivering a thrillingly adept and engaging sound with refined bass. ANC is practical (on/off/pass-through) and the related app adds EQ and streaming service integration. Battery life reaches up to 30 hours, with fast charging giving seven hours after just 15 minutes. Prices vary by color, with tan dipping to just under $420 at launch and other finishes often under $500, though some listings may not ship from Amazon. If you're considering a splurge, also check our guide to the best wireless headphones or the top noise-canceling models for travel and work.

Mac users hit by Logi Options+ loading bug; official patch and workarounds

January 7, 2026, 4:48 PM EST. Logitech has acknowledged a Mac outage affecting Logi Options+ (and G HUB) caused by an expired developer certificate. The issue blocks app launch and backend services, leaving mice unable to preserve settings. An official patch installer is now available to fix the certificate for macOS versions Tahoe, Sequoia, Sonoma, and Ventura; older versions will be updated later. The fix does not wipe data. Because the in-app updater was also affected, users must download the new installer from Logitech's support page and install it manually. Two workarounds circulated: backdating macOS briefly to bypass the certificate check, and installing an older version via Homebrew (version 1.60.495862) after a full uninstall. Using AppCleaner helps remove old Logitech files for a clean reinstall.

Intel Stock Rises as Exec Teases New Gaming Processor and Platform

January 7, 2026, 4:46 PM EST. Intel shares rose about 7% after an executive at CES indicated the company is developing a dedicated gaming processor and a broader gaming platform combining hardware and software. The initiative would be built on Intel's Core Series 3 processors and aims to compete with AMD and Nvidia in high-performance gaming chips. Intel plans to share additional details later this year, signaling a renewed push into the gaming segment with historical roots for the company. Investors welcomed the plan as a potential growth catalyst amid demand for advanced gaming hardware, helping lift INTC even as markets fluctuated.

Motorola Unveils Razr Fold and AI-Driven Flagship Line at Lenovo Tech World 2026

January 7, 2026, 4:44 PM EST. Motorola unveiled its first foldable smartphone, the razr fold, with a 6.6" external display and an 8.1" 2K LTPO inner screen, flexible layouts, and on-device AI features like Catch me up and Next Move. The device features a triple 50MP camera array, a 32MP external selfie, a 20MP internal camera, and a Sony LYTIA sensor with Dolby Vision recording and stabilized video. The show also introduced an ultra-premium Motorola franchise, an AI-native wearable companion, and Motorola Qira, a unified platform that bridges Lenovo and Motorola AI. A FIFA World Cup 26 Edition Razr and broader device ecosystem expansion teased at CES 2026, with AI deepening FIFA/F1 partnerships.

Logitech fixes macOS certificate glitch breaking Logi Options Plus and G Hub with manual patch

January 7, 2026, 4:42 PM EST. Logitech has released a manual patch after macOS users reported that Logi Options Plus and the G Hub software stopped working due to an expired Developer ID certificate. The issue prevented customized scrolling, button actions, and gestures, with affected apps getting stuck in boot loops on launch. Windows users were not affected. macOS versions impacted include macOS 13 Ventura, 14 Sonoma, 15 Sequoia, and 26 Tahoe, with older macOS support to come later. Because the certificate also blocked the in-app updater, users must install the patch manually to restore settings and profiles. Logitech apologized for the disruption, calling the mistake unacceptable. The patch is expected to preserve device configurations once installed.

Motorola Signature price revealed for UK and Eurozone: £899.99 / €999

January 7, 2026, 4:40 PM EST. Motorola has priced the Signature for the UK and Germany at £899.99 and €999, respectively, with only one configuration: 12GB RAM / 512GB storage in Pantone Carbon or Pantone Martini Olive. Pre-orders aren't open yet; you can register interest to be contacted closer to launch. The device features a 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED (1264×2780) display with 165Hz, Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, triple rear camera (50MP main with OIS, 50MP ultrawide with autofocus, 50MP periscope telephoto with 3x optical zoom and OIS), a 50MP selfie, and a 5200mAh battery with 90W wired and 50W wireless charging. Availability is listed on Motorola UK and Germany sites, with colors Pantone Carbon and Pantone Martini Olive.

Official Best of CES 2026 Awards: Our Hand-Selected Finalists in 22 Categories

January 7, 2026, 4:38 PM EST. CES 2026 in Las Vegas crowned 23 official Best of CES award winners across 22 categories, plus one overall winner, selected by more than 40 tech journalists from CNET, PCMag, Mashable, ZDNet and Lifehacker. The finalists-exhibitor-ready tech from AI to robotics-were hand-selected for innovation, utility, and performance. Highlights include Best Age Tech: a radar-based smart stove shutoff that detects kitchen presence and can alert caregivers; Tombot Jennie, a lifelike robot dog designed to ease dementia loneliness; Best AI: Nvidia Rubin, a multi-chip platform to reduce AI token costs; Lenovo Motorola Qira, a hybrid on-device/cloud AI assistant; Pebble Index 01, an AI wearable for quick notes. Winners announced live on Jan 7 at 4 p.m. PST.

Spotify brings Listening Activity and Request to Jam to mobile chats

January 7, 2026, 4:36 PM EST. Spotify is finally rolling out Listening Activity to the mobile app, and it's opt-in via privacy settings. You can choose which friends see your listening habits, and their activity will appear in your chat sidebar. Tapping a song lets you add it to your library or react with an emoji. The update also adds Request to Jam in chats: Premium users can send a request to sync listening; accepted requests allow both sides to queue songs and chat. Free users can join jams if invited but cannot initiate them. The features are live on iOS and Android in markets with messaging and will be broadly available in early February.

Meta Pauses International Release of Ray-Ban Display Glasses as Demand Surges

January 7, 2026, 4:28 PM EST. Meta has paused the international rollout of its Ray-Ban Display glasses, delaying expansion to the UK, France, Italy, and Canada due to unprecedented demand and limited inventory. Since the US launch in September, the device, priced at $800 with a right-lens display, has drawn strong interest, causing waitlists that extend into 2026. Meta says it will focus on fulfilling US orders while reevaluating its international approach. The device offers features beyond audio-only glasses, including a viewfinder for photos/videos, messaging replies, and turn-by-turn navigation. An update adds a teleprompter, EMG handwriting, and broader pedestrian routes. Analysts note tight hardware margins and lack of an app store make it a cautious first-gen, possibly following a Quest-style rollout for a later generation.

ASUS and XREAL unveil ROG XREAL R1 AR glasses with 240Hz and docking hub at CES

January 7, 2026, 4:22 PM EST. At CES 2026, ASUS and XREAL unveiled the ROG XREAL R1 AR smartglasses, upgrading the existing XREAL One Pro with two gamer-focused features. Each eye still delivers 1,920×1,080 resolution with 240Hz refresh, 57° FOV, and Bose-tuned speakers, but the package now includes the ROG Control Dock for quick switching between desktop and console via HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C. The specs keep the glasses light at about 91 grams, with electrochromic lenses for on-demand tint, plus three DOF to pin or track a virtual screen. They can connect directly to PCs or handhelds like the ROG Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally X, though achieving 240Hz may depend on the host hardware. The upgrade blends portability with higher refresh rates for portable gaming on the go.

OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Health With Apple Health Integration

January 7, 2026, 4:20 PM EST. OpenAI introduced ChatGPT Health, a dedicated health space that lets users ask health questions separately from the main ChatGPT experience. By linking data services such as Apple Health, Function, MyFitnessPal, Weight Watchers, AllTrails, Instacart, and Peloton, ChatGPT Health can access movement, sleep, and activity data-and even certain medical records-to inform its responses. OpenAI notes it does not provide diagnoses or treatment and isn't a substitute for professional care. The feature emphasizes privacy with layered encryption and operates in a separate workspace. Data from Health isn't used to train base models by default. A waitlist is available for beta access, with broader web and iOS rollout planned in coming weeks.

Japan MoD Awards Astroscale Contract to Develop Gripping Mechanism for National Satellites

January 7, 2026, 4:18 PM EST. Japan's Ministry of Defense has awarded Astroscale Japan a 1 billion yen ($6.4 million) contract to design and demonstrate a gripping mechanism for national security satellites. The project includes a ground-based demonstration under varied on-orbit conditions and aligns with the MoD's Space Domain Defense Guidelines, specifically the Mission Assurance pillar focused on satellite protection. This is Astroscale's second MoD contract, following a previous award to develop a prototype small GEO satellite for space domain awareness. Astroscale says the contract strengthens national security by applying its core on-orbit servicing and capture technologies to safeguard assets in space.

iOS 27 and iOS 26 updates: Release timeline, beta dates, and rumors

January 7, 2026, 4:16 PM EST. Apple is lining up a busy year of iPhone software, covering iOS 26.x updates and the major iOS 27 at WWDC. Highlights include iOS 26.3 (beta now, late January) with improved iPhone↔Android data transfer and EU-only features for watches and accessories; iOS 26.4 (beta early Feb, release late March/April) adding advanced Siri actions like Personal context, Onscreen awareness, and in-app actions; iOS 26.5 (mid May) likely a smaller update; iOS 26.6 (July) for bug fixes; and iOS 27 (Sept) with rumored AI upgrades for Health and a visual redesign for Siri, plus first-gen iPhone Fold optimizations. Follow-ups include iOS 27.1 and 27.2 through fall and early winter.

Anker Unveils 45W Nano Charger with Built-in Smart Display at CES 2026 – $10 Off Preorder

January 7, 2026, 4:12 PM EST. At CES 2026, Anker unveils the 45W Nano Charger with a built-in smart display, showing real-time output, temperature and charging status. It's already on preorder with a $10 discount, and one color is selling out. The updated model adds device detection and a care mode to help extend battery health, while remaining ultra-compact with 180-degree folding prongs. With a single USB-C port, it's designed for phones, wearables and smaller laptops, ideal for travelers who want fewer bricks. CES discounts are rare for brand-new gear, and this price point (about $30) keeps it competitive for a premium small charger. If you want one, don't wait-preorder stock is flying.

Veeam Patches Critical RCE (CVSS 9.0) in Backup & Replication

January 7, 2026, 4:10 PM EST. Veeam has issued security updates for Backup & Replication to fix four vulnerabilities, including a critical remote code execution (RCE) flaw tracked as CVE-2025-59470 with a CVSS of 9.0. The issue could allow a Backup Operator or Tape Operator to achieve RCE as the postgres user by sending a malicious interval or order parameter. The four CVEs affect 13.0.1.180 and earlier and are addressed in version 13.0.1.1071: CVE-2025-59470 (RCE as postgres), CVE-2025-55125 (RCE as root via malicious backup config), CVE-2025-59468 (RCE as postgres via malicious password), and CVE-2025-59469 (write files as root). Veeam characterizes the severity as high, but exploitation risk is mitigated by following security guidelines, and admins should apply patches promptly.

PSLV-C62: India to launch DRDO's Anvesha, AyulSAT, and Nepal's Munal on Jan 12 with on-orbit refuelling

January 7, 2026, 4:08 PM EST. India's first space mission of 2026, PSLV-C62, is set for January 12 at 10:17 am from SDSC Sriharikota. The mission will carry Anvesha (EOS-N1) for enhanced military surveillance with a hyperspectral payload, alongside AyulSAT from Bengaluru's OrbitAID Aerospace to demonstrate on-orbit refuelling. Nepal's Munal Earth-observation satellite, built with MEA support, will also fly. In addition to these three, 13 more satellites will enter orbit, including five from Indian startup Dhruva Space (CGUSAT, DSUSAT, MOI-1, LACHIT, DR-1) for indigenous bus tech and multi-payload operations. Foreign satellites include UK's Theos-2, Brazil's AlltoSpace cluster, and France's KID Capsule by RIDE. The mission is coordinated through NSIL, Space's commercial arm.

Elon Musk silent on Hyundai's Atlas as NVIDIA touts Alpamayo at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 4:06 PM EST. At CES 2026, NVIDIA unveiled the Alpamayo platform, aiming to be the brains behind future autonomous robots and vehicles-a move that presses Tesla's integrated approach. Musk offered a diplomatic reply, stressing that solving the long tail of real-world edge cases is incredibly hard and that he honestly hopes NVIDIA succeeds, without declaring a threat. Meanwhile, Hyundai and Boston Dynamics rolled out the Atlas humanoid, highlighted for its fluid motion, autonomous factory work, and integration with Google DeepMind. Atlas positions itself as a credible competitor to Tesla Optimus, yet Musk has been notably quiet on this project as CES underscores a clash between external AI compute and in-house autonomy.

Tesla Could Benefit as U.S. Lawmakers Consider Easing Autonomous Vehicle Rules

January 7, 2026, 4:04 PM EST. US lawmakers weighing a shift to accelerate autonomous vehicle deployment could position Tesla for a big win. A House Energy and Commerce subcommittee hearing is exploring proposals to loosen limits on self-driving programs, including raising the NHTSA exemption cap from 2,500 to 90,000 vehicles per year, preempting state-level rules, and mandating NHTSA guidelines for calibrating ADAS. Supporters say a federal framework and quicker exemption reviews would spur innovation and competition, especially against Chinese rivals. Tesla, with its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software and Robotaxi ambitions, could scale its fleet dramatically if regulators relax approvals. If the cap rises, Tesla's millions of vehicles with FSD hardware could be converted to revenue-generating robotaxi assets, while concerns about safety and job disruption temper optimism.

CES 2026: Nvidia Demos DLSS 4.5 and Dynamic Multi-Frame Generation

January 7, 2026, 4:02 PM EST. At CES 2026, Nvidia pulled back the curtain with hands-on demos of DLSS 4.5 and Dynamic Multi-Frame Generation. The Digital Foundry team explored the new transformer presets-Preset M and Preset L-now live for end users, with noted improvements in reduced camera-turn ghosting, richer foliage, and sharper edges thanks to a pre-tone-mapping pass in the accumulation model. Nvidia's measurements compare DLSS K-to-M on various GPUs: around 1.05 ms per frame on an RTX 5090 (up from 0.87 ms) and up to ~39% higher on the RTX 4070 Ti, aided by FP8 hardware. Preset L targets ultra-performance upscaling, while older RTX models face higher costs. The event also previewed other demos-G-Sync Pulsar, RTX Remix improvements, and AI game demos-ahead of GeForce On this week.

Minecraft Preview 26.0.27: Baby Mobs, Craftable Name Tags, and Experimental Features

January 7, 2026, 4:00 PM EST. Minecraft Preview 26.0.27 teases the cutest drop yet with baby mobs-wolf pups, kittens, piglets, calves, lambs, baby chickens, baby ocelots, and rabbits-plus crafting name tags and new sounds. Spawn eggs on adults now spawn babies in Bedrock too. The release introduces an experimental toggle for Drop 1 of 2026. Craftable name tags use paper and any metal nugget. New baby mob sounds add charm, while an issue with adult wolf variants is noted for a future fix. Bug fixes span accounts, Android UI, blocks orientation, dressing room, loading cached appearances, and graphical tweaks like parity with Java textures and reduced flicker. Feedback remains welcome at the Minecraft Feedback and Bug trackers.

Samsung Explains Why Your Galaxy Is Stuck on Months-Old Google Play System Updates

January 7, 2026, 3:58 PM EST. Samsung confirms that Google Play System updates are back after a deliberate pause tied to new devices and One UI updates. Samsung notes two separate update streams-one from Samsung and one from Google-and that Play System updates are not the same as monthly security patches. The pause was intentional to avoid issues during major launches, with updates resuming this month. The first wave will likely cover flagship models such as the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, and the Galaxy S25 series, followed by others. Users can check Settings > Security and privacy > System updates. Google launched Play System updates in 2019 to push Android improvements faster (privacy tools, Digital Wellbeing, theft protection), but they can require manual triggering and aren't always automatic.

The AI Bubble Debate Persists as Investors Back Applied Digital and Its Data-Center Boom

January 7, 2026, 3:56 PM EST. The AI stock debate remains unresolved, with investors bullish on AI exposure despite chatter of a bubble. A Motley Fool survey shows 59% think a downturn wouldn't severely impact finances. Against that backdrop, Applied Digital (APLD) has captured attention as a data-center play for AI workloads, up about 208% in the past year and 1,430% over three years. The company builds high-performance computing facilities for hyperscalers and recently finalized a lease with CoreWeave for the Polaris Forge 1 campus in North Dakota, delivering about 400 MW of capacity and roughly $11 billion in contracted revenue. It also announced a Macquarie loan facility and is in advanced talks with another investment-grade hyperscaler for additional campuses. With a 35x trailing sales multiple, some see the stock as expensive even as AI data-center demand remains strong.

Apple Research gets Liquid Glass redesign in iOS 26 update

January 7, 2026, 3:54 PM EST. Apple Research now sports a Liquid Glass redesign that brings its UI in line with iOS 26. The update lets iPhone users contribute to health studies that influence future features like sleep tracking and heart health. Download the latest Apple Research from the App Store to see the refreshed look in action. More Liquid Glass updates are expected for other Apple apps, including Pages, Keynote, and Numbers.

Apple Watch Series 11 discounted by $100, now $299

January 7, 2026, 3:52 PM EST. Apple Watch Series 11 is on sale for $100 off, bringing the price to $299-the lowest price since its September release. Our pick for the best overall smartwatch highlights include strong battery life, thin 9.7mm case, and lightweight design. It adds sleep tracking and hypertension notifications, plus a wrist-flick gesture to dismiss alerts. The GPS + cellular model is also discounted by $100, and it's the first Apple Watch to support 5G networks. For iPhone users looking for a premium wearable, this deal is worth checking out.

Amazon's Ring debuts fire alerts, app store, sensors and AI features at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 3:50 PM EST. At CES 2026, Amazon expands Ring with Ring Sensors that detect motion, openings, glass breakage, and smoke, plus carbon monoxide, leaks, temperature changes, and air quality, and can control lighting and connected appliances. A new Ring App Store lets users run third-party apps on Ring cameras, initially in the U.S. for small-business and home-oriented use. The company teams with Watch Duty for real-time fire monitoring in Neighbors, and supports Sidewalk mesh networking across Echo and Ring devices. An AI Unusual Event Alerts feature uses learned patterns to flag unusual activity (people, actions, clothing), potentially triggering automatic alerts for Virtual Security Guard subscribers. Also announced: a new Ring Car Alarm with built-in GPS for vehicle monitoring. CES 2026 coverage.

Apple Watch Series 11 on sale: $100 off to $299 with 5G GPS + cellular

January 7, 2026, 3:48 PM EST. Looking to start the new year with a workout buddy? The Apple Watch Series 11 is on sale for $100 off, bringing the price to $299. In our hands-on review, it scored 90/100 and impressed with battery life and a slim, 9.7mm case. It adds sleep tracking and hypertension notifications, plus a wrist flick gesture to dismiss alerts. The GPS + cellular model is also $100 off and is the first Apple Watch to support 5G networks. For iPhone users, it remains one of the best overall smartwatches and a solid value when this deal is active.

Apple Watch Series 11 on Sale for $100 Off – Best Price Yet

January 7, 2026, 3:46 PM EST. Looking to start the new year with an activity boost? The Apple Watch Series 11 is on sale for $100 off, bringing the price to $299 and marking the best price we've seen since launch. In our hands-on review, it earned a 90/100 for its lightweight design, longer-than-expected battery life, and the slim 9.7mm case. The Series 11 adds sleep tracking and hypertension notifications, plus a new wrist flick gesture to quickly dismiss alerts. The GPS + cellular model is also discounted and marks Apple's first watch with 5G support in some regions. If you're an iPhone user, this is a solid pick for a fitness-and-health focused smartwatch.

Amazon Ring debuts fire alerts, app store, sensors and AI features at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 3:44 PM EST. Amazon is expanding Ring with new hardware and software, announced at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. The new Ring Sensors detect motion, openings, glass breakage, and smoke, and also monitor carbon monoxide, leaks, temperature, and air quality, with control over connected lights and appliances. A new Ring app store will let users run third-party apps in the Ring app (U.S. only, coming weeks), focusing on small business needs and home tasks. In partnership with Watch Duty, Ring will show real-time fire alerts and early warnings in the Neighbors section, plus live sharing via Ring cameras. Ring also adds AI Unusual Event Alerts, learning property routines to surface warnings when a person is detected. The lineup includes a new Ring Car Alarm with built-in GPS and support for Amazon's Sidewalk network.

Amazon's Ring unveils fire alerts, app store, sensors and AI at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 3:42 PM EST. Amazon's Ring lineup expands with new sensors capable of detecting motion, openings, glass breakage, smoke, carbon monoxide, leaks, temperature shifts and air quality, plus control of lighting and connected appliances. The company is launching a new Ring app store in the US for third-party apps focused on small business needs and home tasks. For fire safety, Ring partners with Watch Duty to deliver real-time updates in the Ring Neighbors feed, and live sharing from cameras. Ring also embraces Sidewalk mesh networking to keep devices connected beyond Wi-Fi. An AI Unusual Event Alerts feature learns a property's patterns and flags unusual activity, with automatic triggers for Virtual Security Guard. A new Ring Car Alarm with GPS rounds out the updates.

Tesla's Cybercab Trademark Snafu: USPTO Suspends Application as UniBev Secures Rights

January 7, 2026, 3:40 PM EST. Tesla's bid to trademark the name Cybercab for its robotaxi hit a snag after the USPTO suspended the application, citing public disclosure before filing. The timeline shows Tesla revealed the car in October 2024, then filed a week later; a conflict with an existing patent allowed UniBev to secure the mark, and by December 2025 UniBev owned US and international rights. The suspension letter (Nov 14, 2025) halts progress on the Tesla brand. Tesla now faces two options: negotiate a license with UniBev or rebrand the vehicle. The episode underscores how announcing a name early can derail branding and why filing first matters in trademark strategy for high-profile tech programs.

Tesla's Cybercab Trademark Snafu: UniBev Secures Right as Tesla Faces Brand Dilemma

January 7, 2026, 3:36 PM EST. Tesla's ambitious robotaxi push hit a legal snag when the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office suspended its bid to trademark the name Cybercab. The setback followed Tesla's public reveal before filing, a misstep that allowed UniBev to secure the mark. Regulators cited potential confusion with an existing patent, delaying progress and leaving Tesla with two options: strike a deal with UniBev or rebrand the vehicle. The saga shows the cautionary lesson: align a public announcement with intellectual property filings. Even as Tesla teases a robotaxi rollout, the trademark clock favors the party who filed first, not the company that dreamed up the product.

Tesla's Cybercab trademark snag delays robotaxi branding

January 7, 2026, 3:34 PM EST. Tesla's bid to trademark the name Cybercab for its robotaxi ran into a US delay after the USPTO suspended the application, citing Tesla's public reveal before filing. The fight intensified as UniBev swooped in and secured both U.S. and international rights, with the initial delay linked to a potential conflict with Pirelli IP. After a global October 2024 reveal, Tesla filed on October 17, 2024, but the office issued a suspension on November 14, 2025, and no further action has been taken. The episode underscores the importance of securing branding protections before public announcements. Tesla now faces two options-pay UniBev or rebrand the vehicle-highlighting how early trademark strategy can shape product timelines.

Moment Energy: Repurposing End-of-Life EV Batteries into Modular Storage

January 7, 2026, 3:32 PM EST. Moment Energy, a Coquitlam-based startup, sources and repurposes EV batteries from North American automakers to power modular storage systems. With over 60 employees, the company demonstrates that end-of-life batteries retain up to 80% of their capacity and can gain a second life as energy storage. Their systems enable peak shaving for homes and businesses, reducing reliance on diesel and cutting costs during peak hours. Founded in a Surrey garage by Gurmesh Sidhu, Edward Chiang, Sumreen Rattan and Gabriel Soares-SFU's former electric racing team-the team expanded to a Coquitlam warehouse and secured investments to scale. Customers include municipalities and sites like God's Pocket resort on Vancouver Island, signaling growing interest in repurposed EV batteries and clean energy storage.

Old EV Batteries, New Life: Moment Energy Revives Used Batteries for Storage

January 7, 2026, 3:30 PM EST. Moment Energy, a Coquitlam-based startup, sources and repurposes EV batteries from automakers across North America and now employs over 60 people. Even at end-of-life, lithium-ion packs can retain up to 80% of their original capacity, enabling a viable second life in modular storage systems. By turning aging batteries into energy storage, Moment Energy helps consumers and municipalities perform peak shaving to cut electricity costs and reduces the environmental impact of disposal and new mineral mining. The four founders – Gurmesh Sidhu, Edward Chiang, Sumreen Rattan, and Gabriel Soares – launched Moment in a Surrey garage in 2019 and later moved to a Coquitlam warehouse, attracting investments to scale with customers including government sites and private projects like God's Pocket resort.

Moment Energy: Giving End-of-Life EV Batteries a Second Life as Storage Power

January 7, 2026, 3:28 PM EST. Moment Energy, a Coquitlam startup, sources and repurposes EV batteries from North American automakers to power modular storage systems. With 60+ employees, the company extends battery life-end-of-life Li-ion packs still hold up to 80% of their original capacity-and uses them for peak shaving to help consumers and businesses cut energy costs. Founders Gurmesh Sidhu, Edward Chiang, Sumreen Rattan and Gabriel Soares built the venture from a Surrey garage after bonding through SFU's first electric racing team. Since 2019, Moment has grown to a warehouse in Coquitlam and sells to municipalities and private clients, including God's Pocket on Vancouver Island, attracting investor support to scale its technology.

Honor Magic 8 gets Huawei-like eye-tracking page-turning with MagicOS 10 update

January 7, 2026, 3:26 PM EST. Honor Magic 8 series gains a Huawei-style eye-tracking page-turning feature with the MagicOS 10 update (version 10.0.0.122, ~790 MB). After install, enable via Settings > Honor AI & YOYO > Eye Tracking > Eye-tracking Page Turning to flip pages with your eyes while reading. The update also adds a new Screen Recording mode with privacy-friendly options and support for simultaneous calls. Other improvements include redesigned Control Center animations, battery life optimizations, and overall system stability and smoothness, including fewer third-party app crashes and reduced lag in scenarios like the home screen and ticketing apps.

Honor Magic 8 gains Huawei-like eye-tracking page turning with MagicOS 10 update

January 7, 2026, 3:24 PM EST. Honor's Magic 8 series gains a Huawei-like Eye Tracking feature with the MagicOS 10 update, enabling hands-free page turning while reading. The feature, similar to Huawei's, is activated via Settings > Honor AI & YOYO > Eye Tracking > Eye-tracking Page Turning and requires the new 10.0.0.122 software (~790 MB). Once enabled, users can turn pages with their eyes, delivering a hands-free reading experience. The update also refreshes the UI and tips, adds a privacy-minded Screen Recording mode, and improves the Control Center motion feedback, battery optimization, smoother scrolling, and overall stability for the Magic 8 series.

Honor Magic 8 gets Huawei-like eye-tracking page turning in MagicOS 10 update

January 7, 2026, 3:22 PM EST. Honor's Magic 8 series gains a Huawei-like eye-tracking page-turning feature with MagicOS 10.0.0.122. The hands-free reading experience works while browsing e-books, echoing the earlier Pura X debut. To enable it, install the 790 MB update, then go to Settings > Honor AI & YOYO > Eye Tracking and toggle on Eye Tracking / Eye-Tracking Page Turning. The release also brings a refreshed UI, improved screen recording with privacy controls, and Control Center tweaks. Other improvements include battery life optimizations, smoother system scrolling, and better stability with fewer third-party app crashes. This update marks another step in Honor's software evolution for the Magic 8 lineup.

Waymo Holds Robotaxi Lead as Tesla, Zoox, and Uber Eye San Francisco Streets

January 7, 2026, 3:20 PM EST. Waymo is still the robotaxi leader in San Francisco, building a dominant fleet that reached 1,000 vehicles and millions of rides, turning Waymo City into a must-try experience for visitors while clogging streets for residents. By 2026, the field should broaden to four robotaxi options in SF as Tesla, Zoox, and Uber prepare to launch alongside Waymo. Waymo has expanded its Bay Area service to a unified zone over 260 miles, including freeways, and just earned DMV approval to cover the East Bay, North Bay, and Sacramento, with broader rollout pending PUC permits. Beyond the Bay Area, plans call for 20+ cities, including Tokyo and London. Tesla, using camera-based autonomy, competes with Waymo's LiDAR/remote operators, lifting wait times but facing regulatory hurdles.

Waymo Holds Robotaxi Lead as Tesla, Zoox, and Uber Prepare to Enter San Francisco Streets

January 7, 2026, 3:18 PM EST. Waymo built a dominant foothold in San Francisco, becoming Waymo City with a fleet of about 1,000 white robotaxis delivering millions of rides monthly. By 2026, the field could have four contenders on SF streets, reshaping the city's traffic and rider choices. Scott Devitt of Wedbush says the era of investment payoff is here, while Waymo expands its Bay Area service to a 260-mile unified zone including freeways, adds San Jose Mineta Airport 24/7 service, and seeks DMV approval for an even larger Northern California corridor (East Bay, North Bay, Sacramento). Beyond the Bay, Waymo plans to enter more than 20 cities worldwide, including Tokyo and London. Still, Tesla remains a major threat with a camera-only autonomy strategy, and regulators will decide how quickly it scales.

Waymo Leads the Robotaxi Race in San Francisco as Tesla, Zoox, and Uber Prepare to Enter

January 7, 2026, 3:16 PM EST. In 2025, San Francisco became Waymo City, with a fleet of 1,000 robotaxis and millions of rides, turning the service into a city norm. By 2026, multiple providers could offer robotaxi rides in SF, intensifying a market once dominated by Waymo. The company expanded its Bay Area service to a unified zone over 260 miles, gained DMV approvals to cover East Bay, North Bay, and Sacramento, and aims for more than 20 cities worldwide. Yet Tesla, relying on camera-based autonomy rather than LiDAR, is a rising competitor with safety-driver limits and longer wait times. Analysts call this a "calm before the storm" as regulatory approvals and field tests shape the, potentially four-way, robotaxi era.

AI upends the 22-year education/40-year career model, say VC CEO and McKinsey exec

January 7, 2026, 3:08 PM EST. Top tech leaders argue that learning ends after college is outdated in an AI-powered economy. VC firm General Catalyst's Hemant Taneja and McKinsey's global managing partner Bob Sternfels say continuous learning and re-skilling are essential as AI accelerates workplace change. Taneja, speaking at CES 2026 on the All-In podcast, warns that the idea we spend 22 years learning and then 40 years working is broken. Sternfels notes AI has expanded client-facing roles at McKinsey by 25% while shrinking non-client work, projecting a future with more AI agents than humans. Studies from Stanford and Gallup echo worker anxiety about disruption, though some argue entry-level talent remains critical for the talent pipeline. The takeaway: adapt, evolve, and invest in lifelong learning as AI reshapes careers.

AI disrupts career timelines: VC CEO says the 22-year learning plan is broken

January 7, 2026, 3:06 PM EST. Top consulting and VC leaders say the idea of learning ending after college is outdated in an AI-driven economy. General Catalyst's Hemant Taneja argues ongoing upskilling is essential as AI accelerates training and productivity. McKinsey's Bob Sternfels says AI is reshaping headcount: client-facing roles grow while non-client-facing jobs shrink, and the firm may have more AI agents than humans by year's end. The CES 2026 conversation underscores AI-driven job disruption and the need for continuous learning, not coast after graduation. Yet leaders like Andy Jassy and Matt Garman stress that entry-level workers remain vital for healthy talent pipelines.

AI Upends the Traditional Career Path, Says VC CEO

January 7, 2026, 3:04 PM EST. Top consulting and VC leaders say the idea that learning ends after college is outdated in today's AI-driven economy. Hemant Taneja of General Catalyst calls the 22-year learning/40-year career model broken as AI accelerates skill needs. McKinsey's Bob Sternfels notes AI is reshaping work, boosting client-facing roles while trimming non-client work, and predicts more AI agents than humans by year's end. The remarks came on the All-In podcast at CES 2026, underscoring the imperative of constant reskilling and lifelong learning. Surveys show rising AI adoption and job anxiety among younger workers, while leaders insist entry-level talent remains vital to pipelines even as AI expands productivity.

AI Models Learn by Asking Themselves Questions Through Self-Play AZR Method

January 7, 2026, 3:02 PM EST. AI systems are often trained by copying human work, but a new approach, Absolute Zero Reasoner (AZR), lets models learn by asking themselves questions. The workflow: a large language model first generates solvable Python problems, then attempts to solve them, checks results by running the code, and uses successes and failures to refine the model. In tests, the method improved coding and reasoning in 7B and 14B Qwen models and sometimes surpassed models trained on human data. The idea echoes self-learning, self-play, and auto-curriculum concepts, tracing back to Schmidhuber and Oudeyer. While currently limited to verifiable tasks like math/coding, researchers envision extending to agentic tasks such as browsing or office work, potentially scaling toward more capable AI.

AI Models Learn by Asking Themselves Questions with Absolute Zero Reasoner (AZR)

January 7, 2026, 3:00 PM EST. Traditional AI models learn by copying humans, but a new approach lets them learn by asking themselves questions. The Absolute Zero Reasoner (AZR) uses a large language model to generate solvable Python problems, then attempts to solve them and checks results by running the code. Feedback from successes and failures refines the model, boosting coding and reasoning skills in 7B- and 14B-parameter versions of Qwen, sometimes outperforming models trained on human-curated data. The approach, called self-play, echoes earlier ideas from Schmidhuber and Oudeyer. While currently limited to verifiable tasks like math or coding, researchers see potential to tackle agentic tasks and even edge toward superintelligence. Early signs of adoption appear in labs including Agent0 from Salesforce and Stanford.

AI Models Learn by Self-Questioning with Absolute Zero Reasoner (AZR)

January 7, 2026, 2:58 PM EST. Researchers from Tsinghua, BIGAI, and Penn State introduce Absolute Zero Reasoner (AZR), a system where a large language model first generates solvable Python problems, then solves them, and checks results by running the code. The feedback refines the model to pose better problems and improve reasoning. In tests on 7B and 14B parameter versions of Qwen, AZR boosted coding and reasoning skills and even outperformed some models trained on human-curated data. The approach mirrors human learning-move from imitation to self-questioning-as Zhao and Zheng note. The team sees growth in problem-posing and problem-solving with scale, and potential future applications beyond math and coding toward agentic AI tasks and even web-browsing. Some labs are adopting the idea, hinting at a step toward superintelligence.

Hammock'n: Japan-Designed Non-Adhesive Smartphone Band Reduces Hand Fatigue

January 7, 2026, 2:56 PM EST. SPRASANN's Hammock'n is a Japan-designed, non-adhesive smartphone band that anchors between the phone and its case, distributing load across a soft hammock to support one-handed use and reduce hand fatigue during long sessions. The attachment uses the case's camera opening and charging port, avoiding sticky residue and enabling reuse across compatible cases. A Japan patent (No. 7351074) covers the design, with US, China, and Europe filings pending. The product line includes genuine leather, denim, and a studded "Hammock'n Rock" model, with global e-commerce and international distribution plans. SPRASANN is seeking partners to expand availability as demand for comfortable phone use grows worldwide.

Hammock'n: Japan-Designed Non-Adhesive Smartphone Band to Reduce Hand Fatigue

January 7, 2026, 2:54 PM EST. SPRASANN's Hammock'n is a Japanese-designed, non-adhesive smartphone band installed between the phone and its case to support the fingers like a hammock. The design distributes load across a soft band to reduce hand fatigue and finger strain during extended use while helping prevent drops. It attaches without adhesive by leveraging the case's camera opening and charging port, enabling easy removal and reuse on compatible cases. The product is patented in Japan (Patent No. 7351074) with patent applications pending in the US, China, and Europe. The range includes genuine leather, denim, and a studded Hammock'n Rock, with global e-commerce and distributor partnerships sought to expand internationally. In user research, 89.6% reported pain or fatigue during daily use.

Hammock'n: Japan-designed, non-adhesive smartphone band to ease hand fatigue

January 7, 2026, 2:52 PM EST. SPRASANN LLC launches Hammock'n, a Japan-designed, non-adhesive smartphone band that sits between the phone and its case to distribute load across a wider, hammock-like band. It aims to reduce hand and finger strain during long sessions and help prevent drops. The band attaches via a non-adhesive structure using the camera opening and charging port, enabling residue-free attachment and reuse on compatible cases. It is protected by Japan Patent No. 7351074 with US/China/Europe applications pending. The lineup includes leather models for business, denim for casual wear, and Hammock'n Rock for music/street culture. An international site and e-commerce are live; SPRASANN seeks distributors and partners worldwide.

Pebble Round 2 aims to revive the second-screen smartwatch era

January 7, 2026, 2:48 PM EST. Pebble Round 2 marks a return to the wearable philosophy many early watchers believed in: a second screen that complements your phone rather than replacing it. Core Devices, led by Pebble founder Eric Migicovsky, unveils a 1.3-inch color e-paper display bonded to the glass for improved viewing angles, with a claimed two-week battery life and a slim 8.1mm profile. The rounded design is dainty yet durable, offered in polished rose gold or brushed silver. Inside, the emphasis is on readable text and a customizable UI rather than feature-saturation. Migicovsky hopes this revived Pebble can spark a new generation of comparatively less-smart but more useful wearables, harking back to the era when the second screen idea showed its promise.

Samsung warns of price hikes as memory shortages squeeze smartphone pricing ahead of Galaxy S26

January 7, 2026, 2:44 PM EST. At CES 2026, Samsung co-CEO TM Roh warned of a harsh memory price squeeze that could force smartphone price adjustments. The company is coordinating with its supply chain to address shortages affecting devices from smartphones to TVs. Global Marketing Head Wonjin Lee suggested Samsung may pursue repricing of phones to reflect the new economics, with a potential price freeze for the Galaxy S26 launch in select markets. Despite losing the memory crown to SK Hynix, Samsung's mobile division remains a major chip buyer and faces higher component costs. The Galaxy S26 launch timing is tricky amid competition from Apple. Samsung also touted growing AI adoption among Galaxy users (30% to 80%) and plans to ship around 400 million AI-powered devices this year.

Dawn of War 4: Ork Campaign Unleashed in CGI Trailer – IGN First

January 7, 2026, 2:42 PM EST. Introduction to Dawn of War 4's Ork campaign on Kronus, kicked off with IGN First's CGI trailer. The opening scene shows an Ork assault on a Blood Ravens battle barge, as Commander Cyrus and Chief Librarian Jonah Orion lead a hard-pressed defense. Warboss Gorgutz drives the attack with a Mega Armor exoskeleton and a Rok-an asteroid packed with Orks. A native Kronus warboss also vies for control, adding another layer of chaos. The trailer teases new synced melee animations and RTS mechanics, with ongoing interviews and hands-on previews throughout January. Fans can wishlist Dawn of War 4 on Steam to catch the full coverage.

Magic Screen adds touch to MacBook displays via Kickstarter accessory

January 7, 2026, 2:34 PM EST. The Intricuit Magic Screen is a snap-on touchscreen accessory that adds touch support to existing MacBook Air and MacBook Pro displays. Attaching magnetically and connecting via USB-C, it promises precise tap, swipe, and zoom input with its built-in stylus featuring pressure sensitivity and hover. Backers can get started from about $139 on Kickstarter, with videos demonstrating the setup. While the exact launch and shipping dates are unclear, the accessory offers a compact alternative to bulky tablets for users seeking a first step toward touch-enabled Mac workflows without buying a new computer.

Steve Jobs' Early Apple Memorabilia and First-Gen Products Hit Auction for Apple's 50th Anniversary

January 7, 2026, 2:32 PM EST. RR Auction in Boston is selling 191 items ranging from vintage Apple computers to Jobs-era memorabilia to mark Apple's 50th anniversary. Highlights include the inaugural Apple Computer, Inc. check from March 16, 1976, signed by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak and written to Howard Cantin, which predates the company's founding by 16 days and could fetch hundreds of thousands. The sale also features an early Apple-1 prototype motherboard, a functional Lisa-1, and a first-generation iPhone jailbroken by Geohot. Jobs' childhood collection, donated by his stepbrother John Chovanec, includes his bowties, 8-track tapes, a desk from his Los Altos bedroom-the so-called Apple garage-plus posters and assorted artifacts. Bids close January 29; estimates run into six figures for key pieces.

US Space Force Seeks Industry Input for Heavy/Super-Heavy Launch Complex at Vandenberg

January 7, 2026, 2:28 PM EST. The US Space Force's Space Launch Delta 30 issued an RFI on December 29, 2025, seeking industry input to develop heavy and super-heavy launch capabilities at Space Launch Complex-14 (SLC-14) on Vandenberg. The initiative envisages a lease-based arrangement for a contractor to fund, design, build, operate and maintain the required infrastructure to support large national-security payloads. SLC-14 is described as the most viable site for large-scale programs. Vehicle classes include Small (50,000 kg). Respondents would oversee all development aspects to enable bigger payloads, new mission architectures, resilience, and faster constellation reconstitution. The RFI is not FAR-governed nor a solicitation, with responses due by February 12, 2026. Separately, SpaceX was approved to double launches at Vandenberg, up to 100/year.

This brand-new Apple Watch Ultra just got a $250 price cut

January 7, 2026, 2:26 PM EST. Apple's rugged flagship, the Apple Watch Ultra, just dropped in price by $250. The discount hits both GPS and cellular models at select retailers and the Apple Store, making the premium smartwatch more affordable for athletes and adventurers. Highlights like the customizable Action button, brighter display, and longer battery life remain, while the price cut opens up the option to upgrade without breaking the bank. Availability varies by color and band, so shoppers should compare stocks and check for bundles. If you're considering a purchase, verify eligibility for tax, trade-in, or educational deals where applicable, and confirm the discount is reflected at checkout. This is a limited-time deal, so act quickly to lock in the savings.

HP's EliteBook X G2 Unifies AMD, Intel and Qualcomm CPUs on One Platform, Plus the EliteBoard Keyboard (CES 2026)

January 7, 2026, 2:24 PM EST. HP's CES 2026 reveal centers on the EliteBook X G2, a business laptop line that will ship with CPUs from AMD, Intel and Qualcomm on a single platform for the first time. The redesign emphasizes serviceability with a top-mount keyboard that can be removed to access internals, potentially extending lifespan and ROI. HP also introduced the EliteBoard-a compact, keyboard-built computer that can connect directly to a monitor without a dock for streamlined home-to-office switching. Specs tease AMD Ryzen AI 400 series, Intel Core Ultra Series 3, and Snapdragon X2 series, with color options Glacier Silver, Atmospheric Blue and Eclipse Gray. Availability starts with the liteBook X G2i in February, followed by X G2a and X G2q in spring; pricing to be announced.

ASUS Debuts ROG NeoCore WiFi 8 Router with First Real-World Throughput Test at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 2:22 PM EST. ASUS is introducing the WiFi 8 era with the ROG NeoCore concept router and the world's first real-world throughput test at CES 2026. The test shows up to 2X higher mid-range throughput, 2X wider IoT coverage, and up to 6X lower P99 latency versus WiFi 7, enabled by smarter multi-AP/multi-client coordination. WiFi 8 targets ultra-low latency, high reliability, and seamless AI device orchestration, laying the foundation for AI-driven ecosystems. Powered by ASUS AiMesh and the ASUS AI Network Engine, the platform promises stable connections in dense homes. ASUS plans to roll out its first WiFi 8 routers and mesh systems in 2026, as part of a push to lead WiFi 6/7 with a philosophy of Smarter Spectrum, Better Experience.

CES 2026: The Best Chargers and Portable Power Solutions

January 7, 2026, 2:20 PM EST. CES 2026 showcases chargers that are more powerful, portable, and stylish. Highlights include Anker's 45W Nano Charger with a built-in display that shows battery level and temperature for iPhone/iPad, plus a reversible folding prongs design. Belkin debuts the UltraCharge Modular Charging Dock that supports wearables beyond Apple Watch, including Samsung and Google Pixel watches, with a customizable back that accepts your own charging puck and a 25W Qi2.2 wireless pad. Baseus introduces the PicoGo power bank, a 10,000mAh pocket-sized unit with a 45W USB-C port and built-in USB-C cable. Clicks reveals the Power Keyb, a magnetic wireless power bank with a slide-out keyboard that connects via Bluetooth and sticks to Qi-compatible phones. A nod to future, non-unified designs signal more capable travel-ready power.

Clicks Communicator Revives BlackBerry Era With a Physical Keyboard on Android

January 7, 2026, 2:18 PM EST. A pocketable Android phone that nods to the BlackBerry era, the Clicks Communicator centers around a full QWERTY keyboard and a squared 4.03-inch AMOLED display. It's designed as a productivity hub rather than a scrolling gadget, with a message-first home experience built in partnership with Niagara Launcher. The device is pitched as a secondary device or a more compact primary for those who want to curb social-media usage. It runs Android 16 straight out of the box and will support the same apps as other Android phones, powered by a modern 4nm SOC (yet to be named).

Motorola Signature camera scores 164, beating Pixel 10 Pro XL but trailing iPhone 17 Pro in DxOMark

January 7, 2026, 2:12 PM EST. Motorola's Signature camera earns a 164 on DxOMark, placing it sixth in the overall rankings-one spot ahead of the Pixel 10 Pro XL and just behind the iPhone 17 Pro. Reviewers note only a few drawbacks: occasional inconsistent exposure in video, some noise in high-contrast scenes, and minor detail loss at 2x zoom due to digital magnification. The phone impresses with accurate auto exposure and reliable white balance, plus solid performance in mixed lighting. Skin tones are well-rendered, portrait mode delivers convincing bokeh, and overall image noise remains relatively low.

Honor to adopt flat displays and BT.2020+ color gamut with built-in privacy tech for next-gen Magic phones

January 7, 2026, 2:06 PM EST. Rumors suggest Honor will follow Huawei by adopting a flat display panel for its upcoming Magic phones and embracing the BT.2020+ color gamut, already used on the Mate 80 RS Ultimate Design. The wider color space promises richer, more vibrant HDR content on flagship devices. In addition to display tech, Honor is reportedly exploring built-in privacy tech (not a screen protector), with whispers of in-display 3D face recognition. The leak notes Honor has reshaped its screen strategy across recent launches, while some fans question why the Magic 8 hasn't joined the shift. Huawei may push further with the Mate 80 GTS and a larger OLED panel.

Albertsons' AI Shopping Assistant Drives 10% Basket-Size Lift as Part of Broad AI Transformation

January 7, 2026, 2:04 PM EST. Albertsons is accelerating an enterprise-wide AI transformation across merchandising, labor and supply chain. On an earnings call, executives cited a 10% lift in basket size from its Ask AI shopping assistant and noted stronger digital sales and identical-store performance. The company plans to deploy generative AI for labor forecasting and scheduling and to give merchants AI-driven insights to optimize pricing, promotions and assortment. Albertsons says AI is a durable, long-term advantage, enabling personalized shopping experiences, frictionless omnichannel journeys and higher productivity. In addition to Ask AI, autonomous shopping assistants and other AI tools are streamlining meal planning, cart building and end-to-end shopping tasks, reinforcing loyalty while reducing costs and accelerating execution.

Lenovo Legion Go 2 to launch with SteamOS this June, starting at $1,199

January 7, 2026, 2:02 PM EST. Lenovo is bringing its Legion Go 2 to market with a SteamOS version launching in June, starting at $1,199. The handheld keeps detachable controllers, a built-in kickstand, and a variable-refresh-rate OLED display Lenovo calls the most advanced screen in a handheld. Compared with the Windows version, SteamOS can offer a performance boost, though the AMD Z2 Extreme remains challenged next to newer chips. The Legion Go 2 also features an FPS mouse built into a controller with a snap-on puck for table play and doubles as a tablet. Lenovo is prepping Xbox Full Screen Experience for Windows 11, with an official release expected this spring. This is Lenovo's second SteamOS handheld, aiming to rival Valve's Deck.

Video: Is A.I. Tech Overhyped or Underhyped? | Sam Rodriques on Hard Fork

January 7, 2026, 2:00 PM EST. Sam Rodriques, founder of FutureHouse, joins Kevin Roose and Casey Newton on Hard Fork to debate which AI technologies meet or miss the hype. The discussion separates flashy demos from real-world impact, examines timelines and risk, and highlights both overhyped claims and underhyped potential. Viewers get insight into enterprise tools, consumer apps, and the evolving startup scene, with practical takeaways for engineers, investors, and policy readers. Published by HARD Fork on January 7, 2026, this video offers a concise, balanced look at what's worth watching in AI today and what should be approached with caution.

TSMC Stock Slips as JPMorgan Raises Price Target on AI Demand

January 7, 2026, 1:58 PM EST. TSMC shares fell about 1.5% as JPMorgan raised its price target to NT$2,100 while keeping an Overweight rating, citing AI-driven growth. The bank expects roughly 30% USD revenue growth in 2026, driven by demand for TSMC's N3 node, a faster N2 ramp, stronger advanced packaging, and higher ASP. Gross margins are seen improving from a better product mix, higher yields on N3 wafers, more expedited N4/N3 orders, and a favorable Taiwan dollar. For 2027, the firm expects >20% revenue growth as capacity for leading-edge nodes remains tight and AI-related capex stays elevated. Upside risks include stronger early-2026 margins, additional N2 capacity, resumed H200 shipments from Nvidia, and gains in mature tech driven by industrial and automotive demand.

Education minister backs campaign to delay children's smartphone use

January 7, 2026, 1:54 PM EST. Education minister Paul Givan backs The Parent Pact, urging parents to delay giving children a smartphone until age 14 and to restrict social media until 16. The Department of Education (DE) has written to school principals to raise awareness of the initiative, organized by Smartphone Free Childhood. The policy argues that delaying access reduces early exposure to online risks and supports children's mental health and offline social and family connections. The DE letter directs schools to provide information from the campaign and acknowledges it remains voluntary. Campaign participants say many schools struggle with existing policies and cite concerns about cyberbullying and the practicalities of supervising devices in classrooms.

Tesla 2026: Proving Robotaxi Scale and Optimus Practicality

January 7, 2026, 1:46 PM EST. Tesla enters 2026 at a fork: prove it can scale ambitious bets rather than just promise. The years ahead hinge on two pivots beyond its EV foundation: Robotaxi economics and the Optimus robotics platform. For Robotaxi, the company must move from pilot to scalable economics via geographic expansion, clearer unit economics (cost per mile, uptime, pricing discipline), and stronger regulatory momentum toward smoother approvals. For Optimus, the bar is practicality over spectacle: demonstrable internal deployment in Tesla factories, ability to perform repetitive tasks cheaper than humans, and focus on narrow, high-value use cases before broad commercialization. If Tesla shows progress on these fronts, investors will view 2026 as execution-driven growth; failure to do so could erode confidence and push timelines further out, raising risk to the long-term thesis.

FIFA to deploy AI-powered 3D avatars for offside decisions at World Cup with Lenovo

January 7, 2026, 1:42 PM EST. FIFA has announced it will use artificial intelligence to power an AI-enabled 3D avatar system for players at the World Cup, in partnership with Lenovo. The system creates precise 3D models from quick scans, enabling the offside process to track players during fast and obscured movements and feed data into semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) and the VAR. The goal is faster, more accurate calls and clearer fan understanding in stadiums and on TV. Trials at the Intercontinental Cup proved the approach ready for wide deployment. In addition, FIFA will give teams access to Lenovo's generative AI knowledge assistant-a tool for post-game analysis and historic data, available before and after games to level the playing field, but not during matches.

Nestlé CIO: AI investments deliver value beyond efficiency across the supply chain

January 7, 2026, 1:40 PM EST. Nestlé CIO Chris Wright argues AI's value goes beyond simple efficiency. The company is piloting a generative AI assistant to create fulfillment plans for distributors and retailers, speeding planning, improving outcomes, and helping smaller customers who place orders manually. Human reps can spend more time explaining AI recommendations, boosting conversion. Wright notes about 90% of core processes run on a single SAP template, enabling rapid testing and scaling from pilots in markets like Brazil or the Philippines. A centralized data foundation across the value chain lets Nestlé pull insights to rethink end-to-end operations and decision-making. AI investments target not only efficiency but smarter buying, energy reductions in factories, and more informed customer engagement.

Xgimi Announces MemoMind AI-First Smart Glasses in Three Models at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 1:36 PM EST. Xgimi is entering the AI wearables space with three MemoMind smart glasses announced at CES 2026. The MemoMind family aims to blend into daily life with an AI system that runs a hybrid operating system of multiple LLMs, selecting the right model for translation, summarization, or note-taking. The lineup includes the premium Memo One, which features dual eye displays, Harman Kardon speakers, and a front-frame control; the lighter Memo Air Display at about 28.9g with a single display, all-day battery, and a week-long charging case; and a third model described as 'closer to normal glasses' to be revealed later. Preorders are coming soon, with a rough price of around $599 for Memo One.

Dell revives XPS to reset the AI PC craze and revive its ultralight lineup

January 7, 2026, 1:34 PM EST. Dell pulls back from the months-long AI PC push by reviving the XPS brand after scrapping it in January 2025. At a New York CES preview, Dell executive Jeff Clarke framed the move as a reset: the company replaced major lines with Dell Premium/Pro, but is bringing back the recognizable XPS name for ultralight laptops. The revival follows criticism of the 2022 XPS 13 Plus-era design, which featured a capacitive touch row, borderless haptic touchpad, and lattice-free keyboard. The new XPS 14 and XPS 16 restore a physical function row and bordered touchpad, while Dell plans a cheaper XPS 13 later this year with a traditional chiclet keyboard to cut production costs.

Dell's XPS revival a reprieve from the AI PC fad as XPS returns

January 7, 2026, 1:32 PM EST. Dell has revived the XPS line after its January 2025 exit, signaling a shift away from the AI PC fad. Unveiled at CES 2026 preview, the XPS 14 and XPS 16 bring back physical function rows and a border on the touchpad, while maintaining a haptic input surface. The revival also drops the lattice-free keyboard seen on the XPS 13 Plus, with Dell planning a cheaper XPS 13 later this year featuring a traditional chiclet keyboard. Dell will not reintroduce Latitude, Inspiron, or Precision, instead continuing with Dell Pro and Dell Pro Max branding. The move restores one of the best-recommended ultralight laptops for consumers.

As AI Grows, Should We Move Data Centers to Space?

January 7, 2026, 1:30 PM EST. Data centers are energy hogs, and the race to curb heat and emissions has some players asking: could the answer lie off Earth? The piece notes that the U.S. alone accounts for thousands of data centers, consuming energy and millions of gallons of water for cooling, with a sizable share tied to fossil fuels. As AI workloads grow, the pressure to reduce environmental impact intensifies, pushing researchers toward space-based cooling and power concepts. Proponents argue that solar energy in orbit and near-constant sunlight could drive data-processing satellites, while swappable radiators could vent heat into the cold vacuum. Critics warn about manufacturing, latency, deployment timelines, and sunk costs. Still, by the 2030s we might see a bold shift from terrestrial to space-enabled data-processing architectures.

Space-Based Data Centers: Are Off-Planet Servers the Answer to AI's Energy Crisis?

January 7, 2026, 1:26 PM EST. As AI drives data growth, data centers are consuming more energy and water, heating up the debate on sustainable cooling. The U.S. hosts thousands of centers, and global growth is staggering, with trillions of bytes flowing daily and projections to reach hundreds of zettabytes. Traditional cooling relies on water and fossil fuels, exposing climate and resource concerns. A growing cohort of players-from Blue Origin and Google to startups like Aetherflux-are exploring space-based data centers. In orbit, constant sunlight can power systems with solar energy, while the chilly vacuum can radiate heat. The promise is cleaner energy and dramatically reduced terrestrial footprint, but challenges remain: deployment timelines, launch costs, maintenance, signal latency, and regulatory questions before hardware fleets take flight by the 2030s.

JPMorgan Moves Proxy Voting In-House With AI, Signaling AI Expansion in Banking

January 7, 2026, 1:24 PM EST. JPMorgan is moving away from traditional proxy advisory firms and relying on an internally built AI system, Proxy IQ, to aggregate and analyze proxy data for thousands of annual meetings. The shift aims to speed decisions, reduce reliance on external data providers, and cut costs, illustrating a broader trend toward "cognitive banking" where AI sits on permissioned data to deliver proactive guidance. Beyond customer engagement and fraud detection, JPMorgan's move extends AI's reach into governance and asset management. By disintermediating proxy advisers and automating interpretation of proxy statements, the bank shows how operational AI can handle tasks once done by humans, potentially reshaping workflows across financial services and investment management.

JPMorgan Bets on In-House AI for Proxy Voting, Expanding AI's Financial Footprint

January 7, 2026, 1:16 PM EST. JPMorgan is moving away from traditional proxy advisory firms and toward an internally built AI system-Proxy IQ-to handle proxy voting. The move extends AI's reach deeper into finance, from cognitive banking to operational AI that surfaces insights and speeds decisions. By bringing proxy data analysis in-house for roughly 3,000 annual meetings, the bank reduces reliance on external vendors and shortens information-to-vote cycles. This disintermediation highlights AI's expanding role in asset management and governance, signaling a broader shift toward automated, data-driven decision processes across banking operations. As with any AI-led approach, it raises questions about data sourcing, oversight, and accountability in governance tasks.

Lego Smart Play hands-on: Interactive play with Smart Bricks, Smart Tags and Smart Minifigures

January 7, 2026, 1:14 PM EST. At CES 2026, Lego unveiled Smart Play, a new system that marries physical bricks with digital feedback. The core is a Smart Brick packed with proximity sensors, an accelerometer, color sensors, and a speaker-but identical bricks only come alive when paired with Smart Tags or Smart Minifigures that carry contextual instructions. In an extended demo, Lego showed Star Wars sets where a Smart Tag behind Palpatine's throne triggers the Imperial March and chattering from the minifigs; Vader's breathing and a lightsaber duel respond to moves and crashes. The setup enables kids to explore movement, sound, and story in tandem with physical builds, aiming to get players of all ages to cooperate and create shared play experiences.

Deal Alert: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 Drops to $499.98 on Amazon (LTE, 64GB)

January 7, 2026, 1:12 PM EST. Deal hunters get a standout price on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra: the 2025 LTE model with 64GB is listed at $499.98 on Amazon, down from $649.99. The 2024 version with 32GB drops to $414.99. Built for outdoors, the Titanium chassis, IP68 rating, and water pressure tolerance up to 10ATM (about 330 feet) make it rugged enough for hiking, with a built-in siren for emergencies. It runs WearOS with 2GB RAM and 32GB storage, and a big 1.47-inch Super AMOLED display. Battery life is strong-up to 60-100 hours depending on usage. If you want a smaller/cheaper option, the Galaxy Watch 7 at $235.54 is also highlighted.

CES 2026: CFS, Nvidia, and Siemens push fusion with a digital twin for Sparc reactor

January 7, 2026, 1:08 PM EST. Commonwealth Fusion Systems unveiled a collaboration with Nvidia and Siemens to design a digital twin of its Sparc demonstration reactor, a key step toward commercial fusion power. CEO Bob Mumgaard said fusion will create an entirely new industry, not a simple buy-and-install project. Siemens' Roland Busch framed fusion as a potential clean, abundant energy source for AI factories and data centers. Sparc recently had its first 24-ton magnet installed at its Massachusetts site, and the team is using Siemens software to design and operate the plant components. The move shows how hardware and software are converging to accelerate fusion R&D and prove a practical fusion plant could emerge in coming years.

NVIDIA Debuts DLSS 4.5 at CES 2026: 2nd Gen Transformer, 4K 240Hz Path Tracing, and RTX Remix Logic

January 7, 2026, 1:06 PM EST. At CES 2026, NVIDIA rolled out DLSS 4.5 featuring the 2nd Generation Super Resolution Transformer for sharper visuals, better temporal stability, reduced ghosting, and improved anti-aliasing. It adds Dynamic Multi Frame Generation to boost frame rate toward 4K 240Hz path tracing. The 2nd Gen Transformer SR is now available for all RTX GPUs, while Dynamic 6x Frame Generation lands in spring 2026 for the RTX 50 series. The update also expands to 400+ games via the NVIDIA app. RTX Remix Logic lets real-time environmental reactions to in-game events, with over 30 detectable events and adaptive volumetrics, particles, materials, and lighting. NVIDIA also notes native Linux and Fire TV clients.

AI Fatigue Shifts Investors Toward the S&P 493 as Magnificent Seven Winds Down

January 7, 2026, 1:00 PM EST. AI fatigue is driving a market rotation from the Magnificent Seven to the rest of the S&P 500. After three years of outsized gains, investors are pricing potential US economic growth higher and steering cash toward the S&P 493, the 493 stocks outside the top seven. The Defiance Large Cap Ex-Magnificent Seven ETF, ticker XMAG, has posted steady inflows as funds chase defensible margins and a broader market rebound rather than a single tech-led surge. If growth accelerates, cyclical names such as banks – including JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Bank of America Corp. – and consumer discretionary stocks like Nike or Booking Holdings could outperform. Still, ending the dominance of Big Tech could trigger volatility as leadership shifts. The move signals a potential pivot after a long tech-centric rally.

Apple Watch Series 11 Returns at Low Price to Rival Galaxy and Pixel Watches

January 7, 2026, 12:58 PM EST. Amazon is offering the Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS 42mm) at a 25% discount, dropping to $299 with free delivery for select color options (Space Gray with black band, Rose Gold with blush band, Jet Black with black band). A limited-time deal, so act fast; AppleCare+ bundles are available for $358. The watch combines a slim design with a bright, durable display and a robust suite of health and fitness features, including heart-rate alerts, irregular rhythm detection, blood oxygen monitoring, and a Sleep Score to track nightly rest. It also supports workouts, 50m water resistance, IP6X dust resistance, and safety tools like fall detection and crash alerts, plus Check In and iPhone integration. Battery life runs up to 24 hours, with quick 15-minute charging providing hours more.

Nokia's comeback: from iPhone victim to a $1B Nvidia deal

January 7, 2026, 12:56 PM EST. From a bruising era when the iPhone reshaped the mobile market to a strategic pivot in network infrastructure, Nokia has rebuilt its value through software, 5G, and AI-ready hardware. The centerpiece of the tale is a landmark partnership with Nvidia worth about $1 billion, signaling a shift toward high-performance computing in telecom gear. The collaboration pairs Nokia's global carrier footprint with Nvidia's AI accelerators to power cloud-native networks, edge computing, and intelligent service delivery. The move shows how telecom equipment makers can reinvent themselves by aligning with AI silicon leaders, expanding margins, and maintaining relevance in an era of cloud-native networks and ever-smarter devices. Key lessons include resilience, focused product bets, and the power of alliance-building in tech policy and industry.

CES 2026: The Coolest Laptops Unveiled, Powered by New Chips and a Serviceable, Sustainable Design

January 7, 2026, 12:54 PM EST. CES 2026 is about more than faster chips. The show flags new mobile processors from AMD, Intel and Qualcomm powering the next wave of laptops, with tighter CPU/GPU performance, sharper AI capabilities and longer battery life. A notable trend is modularity-serviceable designs aimed at sustainability-with Dell, HP and Lenovo offering components that can be replaced or upgraded rather than tossing the whole system. The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 adopts a Space Frame design that exposes the internals via a removable bottom panel and even dual-sided motherboard access, with most parts replaceable, though RAM remains soldered. Dell XPS 14/16 return to familiar branding. MSI and Acer/Asus offer upgrade-friendly or redesigned models, plus HP's bold concept that could redefine the laptop.

Ixana's Wi-R: A Body-Centric Wireless Network for Wearables

January 7, 2026, 12:52 PM EST. Ixana's new Wi-R chipsets aim to replace Bluetooth for wearable ecosystems by creating a near-body, personal wireless network. The Indiana startup has been quietly advancing short-range, high-bandwidth connections that let glasses, watches, rings, earbuds and more share data directly, with claimed bandwidth up to 20 Mbps and latency improvements. Demonstrations at CES 2026 showed prototypes like a pendant, dual smart bands, smart glasses and earbuds exchanging data in close contact, with throughput around 5 Mbps in multi-device demos. The tech promises secure, radiation-free operation within a few centimeters of skin, enabling sensor data, audio and other information to flow without Bluetooth handoffs. Potentially attractive for consumer wearables and defense applications, it signals a new era of a local wireless personal network for wearables.

How to test Minecraft features with snapshots and previews

January 7, 2026, 12:50 PM EST. To test the new features, enable snapshots for Minecraft: Java Edition or enable previews for Minecraft: Bedrock Edition. For Java, open the Minecraft Launcher and toggle snapshots in the Installations tab. For Bedrock, follow the provided instructions to turn on previews. After testing, share your feedback and report any bugs at bugs.mojang.com. Note that these features are still in development and may change as the team iterates. The goal of releasing them to testing is to collect community input and improve the final versions.

LEGO Says Smart Brick Is Here to Stay and Responds to Concerns About Abandoning Non-Digital Play

January 7, 2026, 12:48 PM EST. LEGO is pushing back on fears that its new Smart Brick signals the end of physical play. In talks with IGN, executive Begher said the technology is a future-facing addition rather than a replacement for LEGO's core proposition. He framed Smart Bricks as an added layer in LEGO's System-in-Play, designed to unlock more interaction with bricks and Minifigures without a screen. LEGO stresses the experience remains screen-free and explicitly physical, with a Parental Control app to update firmware as sets evolve. Critics, including BBC's coverage and Fairplay's Josh Golin, worry about imagination being undermined; LEGO argues the approach is complementary, not oppositional, and says digital play has a role but isn't the direction of this initiative.

10 Garmin Watch Hacks Every User Should Know

January 7, 2026, 12:44 PM EST. Garmin watches unlock powerful features beyond the basics. This guide covers ten practical hacks-from quick access shortcuts to customizing faces and activities. Learn how to assign shortcuts via the System > Shortcuts menu to launch music controls, weather, or a night-shift mode with a long press or button combo. Download a better watch face from ConnectIQ, with favorites like Big Easy and Fenix-style looks. Tweak your favorites list and remove unused activities so your most-used options sit at the top. Personalize glances and app order to show what matters most, and adjust the controls menu by editing the app list. These tweaks save time and tailor Garmin to your routine.

Dell Dials Back AI Hype at CES 2026: Consumers Aren't Buying AI, Says Kevin Terwilliger

January 7, 2026, 12:42 PM EST. At CES 2026, Dell's head of product Kevin Terwilliger said consumers aren't buying based on AI and that the topic was largely absent from Dell's announcements. Dell will continue delivering AI features, but the emphasis shifted to hardware-new laptops, desktops, tariffs, and monitors-rather than hype around AI. The point: AI means many things-from NPC behavior to generative models-and its overuse muddies value. By focusing on tangible outcomes and performance, Dell frames AI as a tool rather than a buzzword. This could mark the first of more vendors re-evaluating AI messaging and concentrating on creativity and practical value instead.

Garmin's top smartwatches get a massive free software update with Battery Manager and Sports Scores

January 7, 2026, 12:40 PM EST. Garmin's public beta programme is delivering a sweeping software update to its latest watches, bringing two standout features: a Battery Manager and a Sports Scores widget. The Battery Manager reveals what's draining power and how many days remain, showing how phone Bluetooth, GPS, or other functions impact life. The Sports Scores widget keeps tabs on latest results and upcoming fixtures for chosen teams across 14 leagues. The update is rolling out to models like the Fenix 8 Pro, Enduro 3, Forerunner 570/970, Venu X1/4, Vivoactive 6, and Quatix 8/Tactix 8, once you join Garmin Connect and install via Settings > System > Software Update.

Dell's CES 2026 briefing shuns AI buzz and returns to real hardware talk

January 7, 2026, 12:38 PM EST. Dell's CES 2026 pre-briefing stood out for its rare focus on products over AI chatter. Jeff Clarke outlined industry realities, from tariffs to a looming memory shortage, and Dell rolled out refreshed XPS laptops, new Alienware ultraslims, Area-51 desktops, and monitors with a consumer-first tilt. The only AI line came early in Clarke's remarks; Kevin Terwilliger later stressed the shift away from an AI-first narrative. The briefing felt refreshingly honest, practical, and human, a welcome counterpoint to the year's omnipresent AI hype. For gamers and power users, Dell's mix of performance machines and approachable pricing signals where the company sees demand growing, not just marketing fluff.

CES 2026: Crease-Free Foldable iPhone Display Spotted

January 7, 2026, 12:36 PM EST. At CES 2026, Samsung Display previewed a crease-free foldable OLED panel that could power Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone. Shown beside the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Samsung claimed the panel has no crease and delivers seamless text across the fold from every angle. The tech hinges on a laser-drilled metal display plate from Fine M-Tec to disperse bending stress, with Apple said to have designed the panel's structure, lamination, and process. Rumors peg Apple's closed display at about 5.3-5.5 inches and 7.5-7.8 inches open, yielding a 4:3 ratio when open. Samsung notes the booth was removed for media-tour timing and clarified the crease-free panel was an R&D concept, not a confirmed Galaxy Z Fold 8 feature. Z Fold 8 is eyed for summer; Apple's foldable iPhone mass production and launch target mid-September.

Threads tests in-message games, starting with a basketball mini-game

January 7, 2026, 12:34 PM EST. Threads is quietly prototyping built-in in-message games inside chats, starting with a basketball mini-game. Meta confirmed to TechCrunch that the feature is internal and not yet public. It was spotted by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi, who shared a screenshot of users swiping to shoot hoops and compete for the highest score. If rolled out, Threads could gain an edge over X and Bluesky, and even challenge Apple's Messages that supports games via third-party apps. Meta has previously explored in-message gaming, including Instagram's hidden emoji paddle game. With about 400 million monthly users, Threads still trails X in the U.S., but Meta is expanding features like Communities and disappearing posts to boost engagement.

Musk dismisses Nvidia self-driving challenge as years away at CES

January 7, 2026, 12:32 PM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said it will take several years before Nvidia's autonomous vehicle models pose serious competition to Tesla's FSD. At CES in Las Vegas, Nvidia unveiled Alpamayo, a family of open AI models for autonomous vehicle development. Musk indicated that legacy automakers would not scale cameras and AI computers quickly, suggesting any competitive pressure on Tesla would materialize in about 5 or 6 years. Nvidia described Alpamayo as a vision-language-action model aiming to handle rare or novel driving scenarios. Tesla's robotaxi ambitions and ride-hail services are central to its long-term strategy, with limited robotaxi operations already in Austin and San Francisco. The exchange underscores ongoing rivalry in the AI-enabled self-driving space as both companies push for safer, scalable autonomous driving.

AI Slop Is Over: Here's What Comes Next in AI Innovation and Responsible Tech

January 7, 2026, 12:30 PM EST. As AI content evolves beyond meme-level trends, the industry shifts toward higher quality, transparent models and safer deployment. The piece examines what comes next: tighter standards for AI-generated content, improved alignment and guardrails, and a move from hype to measurable impact. Expect emphasis on policy, ethics, and risk management as businesses balance speed with accountability. The article highlights how major firms are investing in trustworthy AI, developer tools, and responsible innovation to sustain growth while addressing user concerns about bias, misinformation, and safety. In short, the era of flashy AI ploys gives way to sustainable AI practices, improved transparency, and real-world value for users and enterprises.

AAPL Top Tech Pick: Evercore ISI Highlights Strong iPhone Cycle and AI Upside

January 7, 2026, 12:26 PM EST. Apple (AAPL) was named a top pick in technology hardware by Evercore ISI, citing momentum in the iPhone cycle and potential upgrades to its AI-powered Siri. The bullish note argues Apple is well-positioned to exceed near-term expectations, supporting revenue growth and investor confidence in coming quarters. Evercore also kept a positive view on Dell and HPE: Dell's supply chain is described as best-in-class, while HPE's shift toward networking and its post-Juniper revenue mix could help navigate the current memory cycle. Apple's stock has benefited from resilient demand for flagship devices, with investors watching for iPhone sales updates and any signs of AI enhancements that could drive adoption across its ecosystem.

Applications of AI in Urology: Transforming Education, Diagnosis, and Care

January 7, 2026, 12:24 PM EST. Artificial intelligence AI is reshaping urology-from medical education and reporting to precision diagnostics and surgical planning. This Focus issue surveys a broad spectrum of uses, from AI-assisted student training and medical writing to clinical applications in bladder cancer surveillance, cystoscopy, and prostate cancer diagnosis and management. It highlights governance and ethics, noting WHO's 2024 AI for health framework and the 2025 FUTURE-AI consensus for trustworthy healthcare tools. The collection also explores innovative ideas such as the metaverse in surgery, digital twins for personalized uro-oncology, and AI-driven digital pathology. Related pieces examine large language models LLMs in education and patient management, reflections on quantum computing in urology, and AI in prostate MRI, underscoring the wide potential and framed challenges of adoption.

Applications of AI in Urology: From Education to Clinical Practice

January 7, 2026, 12:22 PM EST. AI could transform urology from student education to routine clinical practice, including cystoscopy, cancer diagnosis, and management, as well as academic writing and reporting. This Focus issue surveys a broad range of AI applications, from foundational perspectives on origins and the future of AI in surgery to tools such as the metaverse in surgery, digital twins for personalized uro-oncology treatment, and AI-driven digital pathology in prostate cancer. It also explores practical implications of LLMs in medical student education and patient management, along with discussions of quantum computing in surgery and urology and AI in prostate MRI. Framed by the WHO AI for Health strategy and the FUTURE-AI framework, the collection highlights safe, ethical, and governed deployments across education, diagnostics, and treatment.

Clicks Communicator: a messaging-focused phone unveiled at CES

January 7, 2026, 12:20 PM EST. Clicks Technology unveiled the Clicks Communicator, a phone built for messaging at CES. Designed as a complementary device, it brings together all inboxes on the home screen and features a physical QWERTY keyboard for tactile typing. The device emphasizes triage, responsiveness, and distraction-free communication, with a customizable notification light to flag messages by sender or app. While focused on messaging, the phone can still make calls and run apps, and offers a compact form with a square AMOLED display, three colors, and interchangeable back covers. The company cites a rising two-phone lifestyle while reserving ship dates for now.

Clicks Communicator: a messaging-first phone with a physical keyboard debuts at CES

January 7, 2026, 12:18 PM EST. Clicks Technology unveiled the Clicks Communicator, a phone built to prioritize messaging. Featuring a bottom QWERTY keyboard and a unified home screen that aggregates emails and apps, it aims to let users respond quickly in a noisy world. The device emphasizes triage and responsiveness while relegating content capture and entertainment to other devices. A customizable notification light helps identify important messages by sender or app, and a compact AMOLED display keeps the footprint small. While capable of calls and apps like Android, the Communicator is marketed as a complementary, second-device philosophy-appealing to the two-phone lifestyle and users who want technology that helps them take action rather than distract. CES introduction, reservations opened.

Utah Rolls Out AI-Prescription Renewals, First State to Let AI Renew Medications

January 7, 2026, 12:12 PM EST. Utah has launched a first-in-the-nation pilot letting an AI system renew 190 commonly prescribed medications for patients with chronic conditions. The program, built with health-tech startup Doctronic, aims to increase healthcare access and reduce clinician workload, with an initial renewal cost of $4 that could be covered by insurance later. Some high-risk drugs are excluded, and the system claims to match human clinicians' decisions about renewals at a high rate, while remaining subject to FDA oversight. Experts warn about potential drug interactions, biases in AI tools, and security risks, noting the need for robust safeguards as states consider expansion beyond Utah to Texas, Arizona, and Missouri. The legality hinges on state medical-practice rules and evolving AI regulation.

Utah Launches First AI-Powered Prescription Renewals Pilot

January 7, 2026, 12:10 PM EST. Utah has launched a first-in-the-nation pilot that lets an AI system renew about 190 commonly prescribed medications for chronic-condition patients. The program excludes high-risk drugs like certain pain meds and ADHD medications. The program starts at about $4 per renewal and may be covered by insurance or billed annually later. The initiative is led with Doctronic, a health-tech startup that builds AI tools to automate clinician tasks, including chat-based medical consultations and follow-up notes. Advocates say AI can reduce barriers and costs, while critics warn of potential errors, drug interactions, gaming of the system, and biases. Utah's experiment could expand to Texas, Arizona, and Missouri, and raises questions about FDA regulation and state authority over medical practice.

Xiaomi revamps its SU7 EV to undercut Tesla with $33k price and longer range

January 7, 2026, 12:04 PM EST. Xiaomi has opened pre-orders for a revamped SU7, its best-selling EV, priced from 229,900 yuan ($33,000) and still cheaper than the Tesla Model 3 in China. The upgraded SU7 adds LiDAR as standard, comes in three trims-Standard, Pro, and Max-and delivers a CLTC range of up to 902 km (560 miles), versus the current model's 830 km. Xiaomi aims to sharpen safety after past criticisms while maintaining affordability. The company has sold more than 360,000 SU7s in 21 months and targets about 550,000 EVs in 2026, with the updated model due in April. Pre-orders began this week as Xiaomi maintains its price advantage and broader EV push.

Xiaomi updates SU7 EV with LiDAR, longer range, and lower price than Tesla at 229,900 yuan

January 7, 2026, 12:02 PM EST. Xiaomi has refreshed its best-selling SU7 EV with a longer range and standard LiDAR system, as pre-orders open at 229,900 yuan ($33,000). The updated SU7 offers three trims-Standard, Pro, and Max-with a CLTC range up to 902 km, up from 830 km, while pricing remains below the Tesla Model 3 (235,500 yuan base). Xiaomi notes demand has cooled after a strong 2024-2025 run and cites the YU7 SUV as a growth driver. The new SU7 hits market in April; Xiaomi aims to deliver 550,000 EVs in 2026, after shipping over 410,000 in the previous year. The price gap keeps Xiaomi competitive in China's EV race.

Commonwealth Fusion Systems accelerates commercial fusion with Siemens and Nvidia via AI-powered digital twin

January 7, 2026, 12:00 PM EST. Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS) is partnering with Siemens and NVIDIA to build an AI-powered digital twin of its SPARC fusion machine, leveraging the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio and NVIDIA Omniverse/OpenUSD. The twin will integrate Designcenter NX and Teamcenter PLM data to run simulations, test hypotheses, and rapidly compare experiments to models, compressing years of manual experimentation into weeks of virtual optimization. The initiative aims to accelerate progress from design to grid power, advancing commercial fusion. A visual illustration will be unveiled at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. The collaboration also boosts manufacturing efficiency at CFS's magnet factory in Devens, Massachusetts, through end-to-end digital workflows across engineering and production. Quotes from CFS and NVIDIA executives emphasize faster, data-driven innovation toward clean power.

Unitech Launches World's First Industrial-Grade Windows on ARM Tablet for Frontline Mobility

January 7, 2026, 11:58 AM EST. Unitech launches the RT112 Windows tablet-touted as the world's first industrial-grade Windows on ARM device. Built on Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC and powered by the Qualcomm Dragonwing 6490, it pairs enterprise-class ruggedness with ARM efficiency for frontline teams in logistics, manufacturing, warehousing, and service. The device enables real-time data access, secure connectivity, and AI acceleration at the edge, while meeting IP67 and MIL-STD-810H durability standards. By extending Windows to rugged field environments, it aims to boost productivity and uptime across industries. Qualcomm executives emphasize reliable, connected performance, and collaboration with Microsoft signals broader Windows adoption on Dragonwing for edge computing and frontline mobility.

XREAL 1S Upgrades 1200p, 700-nit AR Glasses at $449 Ahead of Project Aura Android XR

January 7, 2026, 11:56 AM EST. XREAL unveils the 1S glasses with a brighter, higher-resolution mixed-reality experience, offering 1200p panels, 700 nits of brightness, and a 52-degree field of view (up from 50). The 16:10 content aspect enhances immersion while 3DoF AR tracking anchors virtual screens in the real world. Built-in Bose-tuned speakers and adjustable lens dimming round out the headset, which weighs just 82g. The price stays attractive at $449, down from the XREAL One's launch price, with availability at Amazon and Best Buy. New software adds Real 3D for richer conversations. CES 2026 also brings XREAL Neo, a 10,000 mAh power bank with a built-in DisplayPort hub for Switch/Steam Deck, priced at $99. An Android XR, Project Aura, looms with no firm date.

Unitech Launches World's First Industrial-Grade Windows on ARM Tablet – RT112 on Dragonwing

January 7, 2026, 11:54 AM EST. Unitech Electronics today announced the RT112 Windows tablet, billed as the world's first industrial-grade Windows on Dragonwing tablet powered by Qualcomm Dragonwing. The device pairs Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC with ARM efficiency, delivering durable, connected mobility for frontline workers across logistics, manufacturing, warehousing, and service sectors. By extending the Windows experience to rugged field operations, the RT112 enables real-time data capture, seamless enterprise app access, and constant uptime in challenging environments. Built to meet IP67 and MIL-STD-810H standards, it combines rugged durability with enterprise connectivity and AI acceleration at the edge. With the QCM6490 platform, the tablet promises power efficiency, secure management, and sustained performance, helping organizations boost productivity wherever work happens.

Best DJI drone deal: Save 20% on the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo

January 7, 2026, 11:52 AM EST. Mashable highlights a limited-time deal on the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo: save $144-now $575, down from $719-a 20% discount. The bundle adds extra batteries, boosting total flight time to up to about 114 minutes. Deal timing and prices can change, and this is the best price seen since 2024. Perfect for creators and hobbyists who want longer flights and more spares, with the Fly More kit delivering extra value for travel and outdoor shoots.

Best DJI drone deal: Save 20% on the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo

January 7, 2026, 11:50 AM EST. Get the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo on sale at Amazon for $575, down from $719 – a 20% discount and the best price we've seen since 2024. The kit includes extra batteries that push flight time to up to 114 minutes. A solid choice for portable, beginner-friendly flyers seeking longer endurance without sacrificing portability. Deal pricing and availability can change after publication.

TCL's Note A1 Nxtpaper at CES: a ReMarkable-style note tablet with a 120Hz color display

January 7, 2026, 11:42 AM EST. TCL's Note A1 Nxtpaper is positioned as a notes-first tablet, not a general-purpose device. In CES hands-on, TCL showcased a modern notebook experience with split-view for recording, transcription, and note-taking. The 11.5-inch matte display with 120Hz refresh delivers responsiveness while remaining easy on the eyes, aided by eye-comfort features and 3A Crystal Shield Glass to cut glare. Unlike prior Nxtpaper devices, the Note A1 uses Nxtpaper Pure-no mode-switching between color and paper-like modes. The design prioritizes grip and portability, with a T Pen Pro that supports 8,192 pressure levels, aimed at long productivity sessions. TCL positions this alongside ReMarkable Paper Pro and Kindle Scribe as the best kind of digital-paper alternative rather than a general tablet.

Chrome for Android gains a desktop-style bookmarks bar on tablets

January 7, 2026, 11:40 AM EST. Chrome for Android is adding a desktop-style bookmarks bar, bringing quick access directly under the omnibox. Previously, Android users tapped the three-dot menu to reach Bookmarks. A new toggle in Settings lets the bar appear below the address bar, mirroring the desktop layout. Currently, it's available only on wide-screen devices like tablets, not standard smartphones. It remains to be seen if Google will scale the feature to phones. The update narrows the gap between desktop and mobile Chrome, signaling progress toward parity – but it's still rolling out and not universally available yet.

Huion Kamvas Pad 12 debuts as Huion's first pro-spec Android drawing tablet at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 11:38 AM EST. Huion teased a true pro-grade Android drawing tablet with the Kamvas Pad 12 at CES 2026. The 12.2-inch, 2K+ panel runs at 90Hz with a nano-matte finish, aiming for desktop-like feel on the go. The PenTech 4.0 stylus, paired with the HV2000 MCU, delivers 16,384 pressure levels, tilt support, and ultra-low latency, with a design that matches the Kamvas 22 (Gen 3) pen. Color accuracy sits at 99% sRGB with full lamination and minimal parallax. A slim metal chassis, long battery life, and preloaded Android art apps like Clip Studio Paint and HiPaint push it toward professionals who want portability without Wacom-grade price. It sits between MovinkPad 11 and MovinkPad Pro 14 in market positioning, offering a strong, truly professional option for Android artists.

Lenovo's Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition hides a Wacom drawing tablet in the touchpad at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 11:32 AM EST. Lenovo unveiled the Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition at CES 2026, a 16-inch high-end laptop targeting creators and power users. The standout feature is a hidden Wacom drawing tablet built into the touchpad, with a Yoga Pen Gen 2 included and touch input automatically disabled when the stylus is in use. Specs include up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor 386H, GeForce RTX 5070, 64GB LPDDR5X memory, and 2TB NVMe storage. The 16-inch display can reach 3.2K (3200×2000) OLED with 120Hz VRR, Dolby Vision, and a 16:10 ratio. Connectivity covers Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, USB-A, SD, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 6. Priced from $1,900 and shipping in Q2 2026 in Thunder Grey.

AI Boom Warning: Nvidia's Vera Rubin Chips Could Hit Data-Center Cooling Stocks

January 7, 2026, 11:24 AM EST. Shares of data-center cooling suppliers fell after Nvidia unveiled more efficient Vera Rubin chips, sparking questions about future cooling demand. Companies like Johnson Controls, Modine Manufacturing, Trane, and Carrier Global dropped as investors weighed how air-cooled solutions could reduce chillers used in AI-powered data centers. Nvidia claimed Vera Rubin's heat output would allow operation at about 45°C water temperature, potentially eliminating water chillers. The shift could affect billions in capex behind OpenAI's and Microsoft's expansive data-center footprints. The comments raise questions, but near-term estimates aren't doomed. Still, the development has sparked debate about whether cooling-system suppliers can sustain growth as chip efficiency improves. OpenAI and Microsoft aim to scale AI computing capacity massively; cooling remains a key, costly infrastructure challenge.

Best smartwatches for Android and iPhone in 2026: Pixel Watch 4 leads the pack

January 7, 2026, 11:20 AM EST. Smartwatches have matured into essential wearables. The article highlights the best Android- and iPhone-compatible picks for 2026, with the Pixel Watch 4 topping the list for Android users. It runs the Wear OS on Google's Tensor G4 platform, offers the new Actua 360 display, two case sizes, and thinner bezels, plus multi-day battery life and repairable hardware. Fitbit's latest algorithms sharpen heart-rate tracking and outdoor accuracy, while dual-band GPS improves workouts. Design is refined, with brighter displays and comfortable bands, and Google adds faster charging and a more user-friendly dock. Overall, the Pixel Watch 4 is the most polished Wear OS smartwatch and a standout Android choice.

Distinct AI Models Converge on Shared Representations of Reality, MIT Study Suggests

January 7, 2026, 11:18 AM EST. New research suggests that distinct AI systems-language models and vision models-may converge on a shared, underlying representation of the world. Proponents call this the Platonic representation hypothesis, naming it after Plato's idea of ideal forms. MIT researchers argue that, even when trained on different data types, models can develop similar, machine-readable "shadows" of real-world structure. By examining how scenes and sentences are encoded rather than trying to inspect every internal state, they find signs of convergence as models scale up. Critics caution that defining which representations to compare is tricky, and not all researchers agree on the interpretation. If confirmed, this alignment across modalities could influence how we think about model generalization, transfer learning, and the design of future AI systems-shaping how we imagine the boundary between data and understanding.

Nvidia's China H200 Push Could Deliver $40 Billion in 2026 Revenue, Boost Stock

January 7, 2026, 11:10 AM EST. Nvidia rode a 39% gain in 2025 but still lagged the broader semiconductor rally as investors weighed AI-cycle concerns and Trump-era China restrictions. A shift could come in 2026 after Trump allowed Nvidia to sell advanced chips to select Chinese customers, provided Nvidia pays 25% of those sales to the U.S. government. Reuters reports say H200 demand from China could reach about 2 million units, prompting TSMC to boost production. Priced around $27,000 per H200 in China, Nvidia would net just over $20,000 per chip after the 25% cut. If 2 million H200s are sold there, that could generate roughly $40 billion in revenue in 2026, potentially delivering material upside for Nvidia's stock.

Intel (INTC) Rallies After Nvidia Partnership to Power AI Server Systems

January 7, 2026, 11:08 AM EST. In its Q3 2025 investor letter, Impax US Sustainable Economy Fund highlighted Intel as a key name in AI hardware exposure. The fund noted Intel's stock rally in September after announcing a partnership with Nvidia to integrate Intel's x86 CPUs with Nvidia GPUs for AI server systems, aided by SoftBank and US government investments. The piece cites Intel's Q3 results (revenue $13.7B, up 6% sequentially) and a mid-2026 stock price around $40, with a market cap near $191B. Despite near-term volatility (one-month return ~−1.8%), the stock remains seen as high quality in a secular growth AI/semiconductors landscape. The letter also cautions that other AI stocks may offer greater upside with lower downside risk.

Nvidia's CES cooling talk reshapes data-center outlook, UBS says

January 7, 2026, 11:04 AM EST. UBS analysts say Nvidia's CES comments on next-gen chip cooling are prompting investors to rethink which firms stand to gain or lose as data-center infrastructure evolves. In a note, UBS analyst Amit Mehrotra highlights how discussions around cooling technology could shift demand for cooling solutions, racks, and power management, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape for hardware providers and semiconductor players. The remarks add a new layer to the data-center refresh cycle as developers weigh efficiency gains, TCO, and integration with AI workloads. Investors will be watching which firms capture the benefits of advanced thermal designs and which may face headwinds as the industry adopts higher-density, cooler-running architectures.

Trapped at a Tesla Supercharger: A humorous first EV road trip and the charging lessons learned

January 7, 2026, 11:02 AM EST. An ordinary Seattle family EV road trip turns into a comedy of charging mishaps when a non-Tesla Mach-E can't unplug from a Tesla Supercharger. After a hopeful start with a Level 2 recharge in Olympia, a 115-mile dash to Portland stretched the plan. A third-party adapter blocked by the charging cable required improvised fixes and a tools run, while a stubborn 80% fill left us with anxious drives through winter roads. The saga continues at a near-empty EVgo station in Chehalis and a rooftop plug hunt in a dark parking garage in Scappoose. Through missteps, improvisation, and patience, the family discovers not just the quirks of EV charging, but a surprising appreciation for electric driving.

Saba Capital Probes Edinburgh Worldwide Investment Trust Over SpaceX Stake Cut

January 7, 2026, 11:00 AM EST. Hedge fund Saba Capital has accused the Edinburgh Worldwide Investment Trust board of failing to act in shareholders' interests, issuing an open letter after the trust sharply reduced its SpaceX stake just weeks before a major revaluation of the rocket company. The missive highlights governance concerns and potential implications for investors as SpaceX approaches a critical valuation event. The dispute underscores tensions between active investors and fund managers over stake discipline and transparency in the high-growth space technology sector.

AirTags Four-Pack on Amazon Drops to $65 – Near-Record Low

January 7, 2026, 10:58 AM EST. Save on Apple's Bluetooth trackers with a four-pack of AirTags now just $65 on Amazon – a near-record low. The deal makes it easy to tag essentials like passports and luggage while traveling and adds flexible options for families or groups. Each AirTag features IP67 water/dust resistance and replaceable batteries, with Precision Finding for more accurate locating when paired with iPhone 11 and newer. A four-pack is especially handy for different items (bags, keys, wallets, etc.). If you're shopping this deal, consider helpful accessories like protective cases and keyrings to maximize use. Follow Engadget Deals for the latest tech deals and buying advice.

ASUS ROG Unveils ROG XREAL R1 AR Gaming Glasses with Electrochromic Lenses and Bose Audio

January 7, 2026, 10:56 AM EST. ASUS Republic of Gamers unveils the ROG XREAL R1 AR gaming glasses featuring electrochromic lens technology that automatically adjusts transparency and offers three dimming levels. The lenses become more transparent when looking away from the anchored screen, and tint when re-focusing on the screen, optimizing visibility across bright daylight to dim rooms. Paired with Sound by Bose audio, the glasses deliver an immersive, three-dimensional soundstage that enhances spatial awareness and in-game responsiveness. This design aims to provide clear visuals and comfort in varying environments, while enabling subtle, realistic audio cues to heighten immersion for competitive or casual play.

CES 2026 laptops steal the spotlight: rollables, Galaxy Book6 and dual-screen showstoppers

January 7, 2026, 10:54 AM EST. CES 2026 kicked off with bold laptop concepts and solid updates. Lenovo unveiled the Legion Pro Rollable, a gaming machine built around a flexible OLED panel that expands from 16 to 23.8 inches, plus the XD Rollable concept with a world-facing display. Samsung introduced the Galaxy Book6 family powered by Intel Panther Lake CPUs and RTX 50-series GPUs, with up to 30 hours of video playback. The Ultra/Pro variants slim down to thinner profiles while adding features like 2,880×1,800 AMOLED 2X displays, 120 Hz refresh and haptic trackpads. ASUS added the ROG Zephyrus Duo, delivering dual-screen versatility and bright panels. Overall, CES 2026 signals a continued push on multitasking, thermals optimization and longer battery life, with rollables and dual-screens driving the next wave of portable PCs.

Assessing Amphenol (APH) Valuation After Nvidia AI Chip Launch

January 7, 2026, 10:48 AM EST. Amphenol (APH) is back in focus as Nvidia unveils Rubin AI chips, potentially boosting demand for Amphenol's connectors. The stock shows momentum (roughly 12.4% 90-day return and ~339% 5-year TSR) and trades about 6% under a narrative fair value of $148.60. The analysis argues for modest undervaluation built on ongoing acquisitions (ANDREW, CIT, Narda-MITEQ) that broaden exposure to AI, RF/microwave, and aerospace/defense, driving operating leverage and margin expansion. With a last close around $141.38, the case hinges on revenue growth and profitability improvements underpinning a premium multiple, though AI/data-center demand could be lumpy and further deals might compress margins. Also notes a P/E near 45x vs peers.

SpaceX IPO Could Transform Space Investment From Niche to Mainstream Infrastructure

January 7, 2026, 10:46 AM EST. Space investing is shifting from a niche timeline-driven pursuit to an infrastructure-driven activity embedded in broader markets. The article argues that space capabilities increasingly enable other industries, so value is created outside traditional launches and communications. As a result, investors are more selective, and space infrastructure often underpins the core narrative rather than leading it. Looking toward 2026, the SpaceX IPO is relevant regardless of timing: it could reveal limits on private capital formation or reflect growth plans that appeal to public markets. A public listing might also influence governments and competitors, highlighting the broader impact of a dominant space platform on multiple critical systems.

DJI Power 2000 Portable Power Station on Sale: 38% Off at Amazon

January 7, 2026, 10:44 AM EST. Get ready for outages or campsite power with the DJI Power 2000 portable power station. It's currently on sale at Amazon for $799, down from the list price of $1,299 – a 38% discount and a savings of $500. This high-capacity unit keeps lights on and devices charged during outages and outdoor trips. Deal pricing and availability are subject to change after publication.

How Long Will Jensen Huang Stay Nvidia CEO? His CES Remarks Signal No Ready Succession

January 7, 2026, 10:34 AM EST. Jensen Huang has led Nvidia since 1993, taking the company from pennies per share to the era of AI chips and record market value. At 63, Huang says there is no formal succession plan and that shareholders remain attentive as the leadership question lingers. During a CES Q&A, he quipped that the secret to long tenure is '1) don't get fired, 2) don't get bored' and indicated he'll stay CEO 'for as long as I deserve it.' His emphasis on the great responsibility of Nvidia's leadership underscores how his tenure shapes the industry, supply chains, and the market.

Rethinking AI: Why We Talk About It Too Much as If It Were Human

January 7, 2026, 10:32 AM EST. AI is not a friend or a mind. This piece argues that anthropomorphizing AI-calling it capable of reasoning, feeling, or understanding-misleads the public and fuels misplaced trust. Industry and media language frame probabilistic automation as human-like, obscuring core limitations and the accountability gap for incorrect or harmful outputs. The essay traces this tendency back to early critiques, citing Drew McDermott's warning from 1976 about calling the system's main loop UNDERSTAND. It catalogs categories of anthropomorphization (verbs of cognition such as think or recognize; phrases like chain of thought) and shows how such terms distort perception of what the technology actually does. Recognizing these myths helps readers demand better safeguards and make informed decisions about AI deployment.

AST SpaceMobile Satellites Could Drive Future Defense Communications

January 7, 2026, 10:26 AM EST. AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird LEO satellites could enable direct satellite communication on ordinary smartphones, expanding defense and emergency connectivity when ground networks fail. The system promises secure, resilient links for troops, responders, and logistics in remote, maritime, or disaster zones. With government contracts underpinning integration into military and civilian networks, ASTS is positioning itself as a supplemental layer for defense communications and rapid deployment missions. The growth of the global space-launch market and calls for space resilience amplify the appeal of spinning up flexible, ground-independent networks. Competition comes from Globalstar and Viasat, which are upgrading satellites and expanding secure military bandwidth. Despite a lofty forward valuation and recent losses, ASTS remains a noteworthy catalyst in the evolving landscape of space-enabled defense connectivity.

Nikon Unveils Nikkor Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 Kit for Z5 II

January 7, 2026, 10:24 AM EST. Nikon introduces the Nikkor Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 lens for its full-frame mirrorless lineup, offered standalone and as part of a kit with the Z5 II. The lens is versatile and compact: 12 elements in 10 groups, one ED element, two aspherical elements, 67mm filter thread, and dimensions roughly 2.9 x 4.2 inches, weighing about 350 g. It features a customizable control ring and a STM autofocus system for fast, quiet focusing. Minimum focusing distance ranges from 7.9 inches at wide to 11 inches at tele, with a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.5× (70-105mm) for close-ups and blurred backgrounds. Priced at $549.95, the Z5 II kit is available mid-January 2026 for $2,199.95.

Wedbush lifts Tesla price target on AI-led growth, Robotaxi and Cybercab roadmap

January 7, 2026, 10:22 AM EST. Wedbush analyst Dan Ives boosted Tesla's outlook after the Q4 and full-year 2025 results, saying the numbers were 'better than feared' and a 'step in the right direction.' Tesla produced 434,358 and delivered 418,227 in Q4, and for the year 1,654,667 produced with 1,636,129 delivered. The company's site showed a consensus of 1,640,752 annual deliveries, narrowly missing by ~4,000 units; energy deployments totaled 46.7 GWh. Ives notes near-term delivery headwinds from the U.S. tax credit phaseout and Europe but argues the company is well positioned for 2026 due to its AI roadmap, Robotaxi and Cybercab initiatives, and expanding energy business. He sees potential upside to a multi-trillion AI-driven valuation, possibly reaching $2-3 trillion as volume production scales.

Space Force taps Falcon ExoDynamics to standardize satellites with Handle 2.0 contract

January 7, 2026, 10:20 AM EST. Falcon ExoDynamics won a $3.3 million Space Force contract to develop Handle 2.0, an upgraded, modular open-system interface that links a spacecraft bus to its payloads. The effort, championed by the Space Safari office as part of the TacRS initiative, aims to shorten satellite lifecycles by standardizing interfaces across missions. Handle originated with the Aerospace Corporation and was demonstrated on Slingshot 1 in 2022. Handle 2.0, developed in partnership with Aerospace, is slated to fly on the Victus Salo mission in late 2026, enabling pre-built satellites with swappable sensors and broader payload compatibility to counter evolving space threats.

Motorola Razr Fold teased for later this year with 8.1-inch display and 6.6-inch cover screen

January 7, 2026, 10:16 AM EST. Motorola's Razr Fold is coming later this year, featuring an 8.1-inch OLED primary display that folds like a book and a 6.6-inch cover screen for phone use when folded. It adds Pen Ultra support via a USI stylus, enabling handwriting and drawing across both displays with a USB-C charging case included. Motorola pre-announced the device at CES; full specs such as processor, memory, storage, battery, and price will surface closer to launch. The device carries three 50MP cameras (wide, ultra-wide, 3x telephoto) plus two selfie cameras (32MP on the cover, 20MP on the inner display). Color options are Blackened Blue and Lily White, and a launch is expected later this year with more details to come.

SpaceX Dominates Orbital Launch Market: What Investors Need to Know for 2025

January 7, 2026, 10:14 AM EST. SpaceX dominates orbital launches, signaling a rapidly expanding commercial space sector. In 2025, SpaceX conducted 171 launches, far ahead of rivals like Rocket Lab (20), ULA (6), and Arianespace (7). The momentum comes with rising payloads: total upmass reached 3,020.5 tons, with U.S. payloads making up 85%, driven largely by Starlink deployments. For investors, this concentration offers upside from SpaceX's growth and potential diversification via space-focused ETFs such as ARKX. However, risk varies across private and public players, and policy/regulation can influence cadence and contracts. The landscape blends high growth with uneven competition, underscoring SpaceX's near-term dominance in the market.

Philips Hue to Roll Out SpatialAware Scenes and AI Upgrades in Spring 2026

January 7, 2026, 10:12 AM EST. Philips Hue is expanding in 2026 with SpatialAware scenes that distribute color based on each light's position, delivering more immersive and natural room lighting. The feature rolls out in Spring 2026. Other updates include multi-bridge migration to Bridge Pro, AI-assisted automations via the Hue app's AI assistant, and new languages (Dutch, German, Spanish) in Q1 2026. Apple Home support extends to Hue Secure cameras and sensors, including video streaming via Apple TV and Home alerts. The app will also display automations within Rooms and Zones to simplify setup, with CES 2026 coverage highlighting these ongoing hardware-software integrations.

Leaker hints iPhones could adopt multispectral cameras

January 7, 2026, 10:06 AM EST. Digital Chat Station, a popular Weibo leaker, claims future iPhones may adopt multispectral cameras. Apple is reportedly expressing interest and the supply chain is being evaluated, though no test has begun. A multispectral sensor can capture light beyond the visible spectrum, including infrared and ultraviolet, which could in principle improve color accuracy and performance in low light. The technology already appears in some military/industrial devices and has been used by Huawei, but results have been mixed for consumer phones. The industry take: skepticism remains, and Apple's timeline is unclear. 9to5Mac notes that many technologies surface in theory but rarely reach production.

JPMorgan Ditches Proxy Advisors and Turns to AI for Shareholder Votes

January 7, 2026, 10:00 AM EST. JPMorgan is reportedly moving away from traditional proxy advisory firms and embracing AI to guide its shareholder votes. The move signals a broader shift toward algorithmic decision-making in financial services and faster, data-driven governance. By replacing external advisers with an internal system that analyzes performance, governance risk, and voting history, JPMorgan seeks greater efficiency, consistency, and speed. Critics warn about transparency and accountability, but supporters say AI can reduce personal bias and scale decisions for a growing investor base. The development could push other banks and asset managers to rethink how they conduct shareholder democracy.

Pimax Dream Air Begins Shipping in Small Batches With Temporary Fabric Headstrap

January 7, 2026, 9:32 AM EST. Pimax has started shipping its Dream Air PC VR headset in small batches, including a temporary fabric 2D headstrap while the company finalizes the official backstrap. The device uses Sony's micro-OLED panels and offers a per-eye resolution of 3,840 × 3,552 (13.6MP). Early shipments are for external beta testing, with the 2D headstrap described as comfortable and secure, and a 3D headstrap inspired by Apple Vision Pro expected later. A hard backstrap with off-ear audio is planned after the wider rollout. Dream Air SE-a cheaper variant with 6.5MP per eye (2,560 × 2,560)-will begin small-batch shipments in February 2026. The rollout reflects Pimax's pattern of delays and iterative updates, as the company aims to bring a thin-and-light PC VR lineup to market.

SpaceX Starship 2026: January window for Version 3 and Flight 12

January 7, 2026, 9:28 AM EST. SpaceX is targeting a January launch of a more powerful Starship from Starbase, Texas. The next mission, Flight 12, would test Version 3 after a rocky 2025 that saw five Starship flights, including early failures and a late success. No official launch date has been released by SpaceX or the FAA as of Jan. 7, but trackers indicate a January window. Starship, standing over 400 feet tall, is intended as a fully reusable system to support NASA's Artemis moon program and eventual human missions to Mars. The Texas-based launch site and the ongoing development of Version 3 emphasize SpaceX's push to meet key milestones in 2026.

Hohem iSteady MT3 Pro: A DJI RS4 rival with built-in AI tracking, detachable remote, and $449 price

January 7, 2026, 9:26 AM EST. Hohem positions the iSteady MT3 Pro as a serious pro-grade gimbal that competes with DJI RS4/RS4 Mini thanks to a 2.5 kg payload and a $449 price, undercutting the RS4's $609. A standout feature is a detachable remote with live view and up to 10 meters range, enabling start/stop recording, AI tracking, and joystick control. The MT3 Pro adds an integrated AI tracking camera that follows faces, animals, cars, or buildings, keeping the subject centered. Other refinements include an integrated light, vertical shooting switch, customizable follow speeds, Teflon-coated plates, a fine-tuning dial, and a 765 g frame. Optional $100 kit adds a motorized follow focus via the gimbal's control wheel. Hands-on review coming soon.

Tether and Rumble Launch Rumble Wallet: Self-Custodial Crypto Payments for Millions of Creators

January 7, 2026, 9:16 AM EST. Tether and Rumble have announced the launch of Rumble Wallet, a self-custodial crypto wallet embedded in the Rumble ecosystem. The platform enables creators and audiences to tip and transact in crypto with no intermediaries, at launch supporting USDT, XAUT, and BTC, with USAT coming soon. Built on Tether's Wallet Development Kit (WDK), the wallet lets users hold and transfer assets peer-to-peer while preserving control and privacy. This move deepens crypto-native monetization and reduces platform risk by removing centralized custodians. Co-creator quotes mention promoting an open, decentralized internet. The initiative aims to empower millions of users by linking Rumble's video ecosystem to Bitcoin and fiat-stable rails for direct payments and creator earnings.

From Flawed VR to Smart Glasses: The Tech World Bets on Wearable Glasses

January 7, 2026, 9:14 AM EST. As VR headsets struggled to win mass adoption, the industry is doubling down on smart glasses and other wearables. Vendors face hurdles from battery life and display quality to privacy concerns and high costs, but the potential for hands-free AR experiences and real-world data overlays keeps leaders betting on glasses as the next consumer electronics frontier. The shift mirrors a broader push toward ambient, everyday computing where wearables blend into daily life rather than asking users to isolate themselves in a headset. Expect more partnerships, lighter form factors, and emphasis on ecosystems around software and services.

Asus Zenbook A16 Debuts at CES 2026 as Ultra-Light 16-Inch Laptop with OLED and SD Card Slot

January 7, 2026, 9:12 AM EST. At CES 2026, Asus refreshes its Zenbook line with the ultra-light Zenbook A16, a bigger sibling to the refreshed A14. Both use Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite processors and pack OLED displays, two USB-C ports, one USB-A, and a 70Wh battery in Asus' Ceraluminum coating. The A16 stands out with a larger 16-inch, 2880 x 1800, 120Hz panel that reaches up to 1,100 nits, plus a built-in SD card slot. Weighing about 1.2 kg / 2.65 lb, it's roughly as light as the LG Gram 16 but with the SD card option. The A14 retains the smaller display (1920 x 1200, 60Hz). Both models ship in early-to-mid Q2 2026, with pricing to be announced. For photographers, the SD slot is a welcome upgrade.

Webinar: AI-Powered Zero Trust Detects Attacks Without Files or Indicators

January 7, 2026, 9:10 AM EST. Security teams are chasing threats that no longer arrive as files. This webinar with the Zscaler Internet Access team reveals how AI-powered zero-trust and cloud-native inspection uncover "hidden-in-plain-sight" tactics. Learn why file-based detection misses Living off the Land tools like PowerShell and WMI, and how fileless Last Mile Reassembly attacks use obfuscated HTML/JavaScript with no payload. The session also covers securing developer environments-CI/CD pipelines and third-party repos-and how encrypted traffic can hide malicious dependencies. Expect a practical, short briefing on modern attacks, why signals beyond files matter, and how behavior analysis and zero-trust design surface critical activity before it reaches users. Ideal for SOC teams, IT leaders, and security architects. Register for the webinar to gain actionable visibility.

Pebble Opens Preorders for Round 2 Smartwatch With 1.3-inch E-Paper Display

January 7, 2026, 9:08 AM EST. Pebble opens preorders for the Round 2, a redesigned smartwatch priced at $199 with shipping starting in May 2026. The device features a 1.3-inch color e-paper display at 260×260 and 283 DPI for a sharper look and an elongated battery life of about two weeks. It runs the open-source PebbleOS and works with both iOS and Android via the Pebble app. It includes dual microphones for voice input and replies, though iOS voice replies are limited to the EU. The Round 2 uses the mechanical design of the original Round while sharing electronics with Pebble Time 2, announced in 2025. Eric Migicovsky relaunched Pebble after open-sourcing PebbleOS.

Spectrum Launches Gigabit Broadband, Mobile, TV and Voice in Pamlico County, North Carolina

January 7, 2026, 9:06 AM EST. Spectrum has expanded its gigabit broadband, Mobile, TV and Voice services to more than 1,200 homes and small businesses in Pamlico County, NC, as part of Spectrum's $7 billion rural construction initiative. The multi-year program aims to add 100,000+ miles of fiber and reach 1.7 million new locations nationwide, delivering symmetrical and multi-gigabit speeds. Spectrum Internet offers speeds up to 1 Gbps with no modem fees, data caps, or contracts; Spectrum Business Internet provides 1 Gbps as well. The rollout includes Spectrum Mobile with nationwide 5G and Unlimited lines starting at $30, and Spectrum TV with 270+ HD channels and 85,000 on-demand options via the Spectrum TV App. Officials say the investment strengthens connectivity for residents, schools, and local businesses, aligning with FCC performance benchmarks.

Asus Reveals ProArt PX13 GoPro Edition and PZ14 Tablet for CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 9:04 AM EST. Asus announced the ProArt PX13 convertible and ProArt PZ14 detachable tablet for CES 2026. The PX13 comes in standard and GoPro Edition variants, both with a 13.3-inch 2880×1800 OLED display, a stylus-friendly trackpad with a built-in dial, and Ryzen AI Max options from the Strix Halo line. The GoPro Edition adds GoPro-style ribbed lid lines, blue accents, a hard-shell laptop sleeve, and a year of GoPro Cloud Plus. The PZ14 is a larger creator-oriented tablet: 14-inch 2880×1800 OLED, 144 Hz, up to 1,000 nits HDR, ~1.74 kg, 75Wh battery, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite with two USB4 ports and a full-size SD slot. Release windows: PX13 late Q1/early Q2 2026; PZ14 mid/late Q2. Pricing not announced yet.

Food Apps Are Ruining Fast Food One Glitchy Order at a Time

January 7, 2026, 8:58 AM EST. The Gripe Report dives into the messy world of food apps, arguing that app fragmentation makes ordering feel like navigating a maze. The piece calls for a single, universal app-FŪD-to handle menus, rewards, and delivery, highlighting how dozens of different apps plus each restaurant's own system complicate a simple coffee run. It recounts the author's reluctant adoption of multiple apps, the lure of promotions like $0.99 drinks, and the odd reality of gift cards that aren't usable across platforms. The Gift Card Situation and other friction points are presented as reasons for craving a streamlined, consumer-friendly solution in the food-tech landscape.

SpaceX Under Fire Over Toxic Exposure Complaints at Starshield Lab Near Seattle

January 7, 2026, 8:56 AM EST. InvestigateWest reports that a SpaceX Starlink lab handling lead and solvents operated next to a busy customer-support hub, triggering at least 32 complaints to SpaceX management or Washington's labor agency. Internal safety emails from October 2023 warned of inadequate ventilation, yet production pressure kept the lab running for more than a year. The Starshield lab – part of Starlink's government-focused program – shared a ventilation system with the support center, exposing up to 50 workers who reportedly received no protective gear or exposure warnings. Public records show SpaceX misrepresented a state inspection's findings and fired several workers who raised concerns; the company is appealing the order. From 2024, symptoms aligned with chemical exposure emerged among staff. SpaceX declined to comment.

Tesla's Cybercab Trademark Suspension Highlights Branding Confusion in Robotaxi Era

January 7, 2026, 8:46 AM EST. Newly public USPTO documents show Tesla's bid to trademark Cybercab has been suspended, raising questions about its branding strategy for a potential self-driving taxi program. The report highlights confusion between Tesla terms: Robotaxi (the app) and Cybercab (allegedly a future vehicle). Tesla reportedly announced Cybercab in October 2024 and filed for the mark in November, but a rival French beverage company, Unibev, quickly registered a similar term. Electrek notes Elon Musk himself used Cybercab and Robotaxi interchangeably at a 2024 event, and TechCrunch previously reported that robotaxi was deemed too generic to trademark. The saga underscores risks of trademark squatting and branding missteps in the autonomous vehicle space.

25 is the new 30: Gen Z AI founders lead billion-dollar unicorns, says Antler

January 7, 2026, 8:40 AM EST. New data from Antler's report 'The Anatomy of Greatness' shows a rapid shift in unicorns propelled by generative AI. While the average unicorn founder age hovered around 33 by 2024, the AI unicorn cohort has fallen to an average of 29, signaling that Gen Z founders are breaking the old age curve. As Fridtjof Berge notes, the era of doing more with more is giving way to doing more with less, thanks to lean teams and automation. This mix speeds up the time-to-unicorn to roughly 4.7 years, with outliers like Lovable hitting unicorn status in eight months. The trend underscores a fundamental shift in startup economics and speed.

IPv6 Strategic Market Report 2025-2030: IoT and Smart Devices Drive Growth to 127.6 Billion Units

January 7, 2026, 8:32 AM EST. The Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) market is expanding rapidly, growing from 41.4 billion units in 2024 to 127.6 billion by 2030, a CAGR of 20.7%. The report attributes this surge to regulatory push, IoT proliferation, mobile expansion, and cloud adoption driving IPv6 deployment. Government policies worldwide are mandating IPv6 to strengthen cybersecurity and support vast networks of connected devices. Smart city initiatives and CDN optimization further boost demand, as developers require robust, real-time data transfer and scalability. Market segments cover Fixed Devices and Mobile Devices, with regional momentum in the U.S., China, and Europe. By 2030, the U.S. market is valued around 10.6B in 2024 terms, while China is poised to reach about 32.9B units.

Lenovo Unveils Rollable OLED Gaming Laptops at CES, Expanding to Ultrawide Screens

January 7, 2026, 8:28 AM EST. Lenovo is doubling down on CES with two rollable OLED laptops, including a gaming model that expands horizontally from a 16-inch base to a 24-inch Arena mode. The Legion Pro Rollable Concept uses dual motors to unroll the display in both directions, adding a wide ultrawide aspect while likely housing high-end internals similar to the Legion Pro 7i, such as RTX 5090 graphics and fast Intel CPUs. The ThinkPad Rollable XD Concept pushes the idea vertically: starting at 13.3 inches and expanding to 16 inches, with a world-facing screen on the lid-a dramatic transformation whose practical use remains to be seen. While both are firmly in the concept stage, they showcase Lenovo's willingness to experiment with rollable OLED displays and mobile gaming form factors.

Lenovo Reimagines the AI-Driven Device Experience at CES 2026 with Rollables, Personal AI Hub, and Glasses Concepts

January 7, 2026, 8:26 AM EST. Lenovo unveils a bold AI-powered device ecosystem at CES 2026, headlined by the ThinkPad Rollable XD Concept-an out-folding laptop that expands from 13.3" to a near 16" workspace with a transparent 180° Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover and Swipe to X gestures. Building on the ThinkPad X1 Fold and ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable AI, it enables AI-driven live translation, voice assistant, multitasking, and lid-closed interactions for hybrid workflows. The Lenovo Personal AI Hub Concept (Project Kubit) packs two ThinkStation PGX AI workstations behind a transparent touchscreen, delivering edge-cloud analytics across PCs, phones, wearables, and smart home. Other concepts include the AI Glasses Concept, Smart Sense Display Concept, and the Legion Pro Rollable Concept, plus Motorola updates-all pushing a smarter, healthier AI-enabled ecosystem.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold: A 10-inch foldable phone that doubles as a mini-PC

January 7, 2026, 8:24 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold introduces a 10-inch screen that folds in two places, enabling desktop-like windows and split-screen work on a pocketable device. Samsung pitches it as a productivity-focused pilot aimed at professionals who want a mini-laptop experience, especially when paired with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse. The device remains slim when open but bulky when closed, and pricing is still TBD after a limited South Korean rollout and upcoming US release. Industry observers call it a strategic move to push foldables further, with Google's Gemini assistant helping juggle multiple apps. While promising, the TriFold is likely expensive and still carries the usual early-adopter compromises.

FCC's Foreign Drone Ban Explained: Impacts on Hobbyists and Drone Businesses

January 7, 2026, 8:22 AM EST. An overview of the FCC's move to place all foreign-made drones on its Covered List, effectively banning future sales in the U.S. The article explains how this affects both drone hobbyists and drone businesses, what actions retailers and manufacturers must take, and what buyers should expect at purchase. It outlines timelines, import restrictions, and compliance steps, including labeling and security requirements. It also answers common questions about service and updates and highlights options for domestic alternatives, while noting that policy could evolve under the FCC.

Best Samsung deal: Galaxy Watch Ultra hits $499.98 on Amazon

January 7, 2026, 8:10 AM EST. Deal alert: The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has dropped to $499.98 on Amazon, its lowest price yet-$150.01 off the $649.99 list price. Select models are included; deal pricing is subject to change after publication. Published January 7, 2026, by Hannah Hoolihan for Mashable.

Elon Musk says he's not worried about Nvidia's self-driving tech yet

January 7, 2026, 8:08 AM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk says he's not worried about Nvidia's self-driving technology yet, according to Business Insider. The comments highlight Musk's stance on autonomy as Tesla continues to develop its own AI-powered driving stack. Nvidia, a key supplier of autonomous-driving hardware and software, remains a major competitor in a fast-changing field. The piece examines how Musk views the competitive landscape, the potential edge of in-house AI chips, and the timeline for broader adoption of autonomous driving. While Nvidia scales its Drive platform, Musk points to Tesla's data network and software integration as a potential advantage. The conversation signals ongoing tension between hardware incumbents and software-first approaches in self-driving tech.

Lego Smart Brick review: NFC-powered bricks bring imagination back to play

January 7, 2026, 8:06 AM EST. The Verge's Sean Hollister tests Lego's latest Smart Bricks, finding them smarter and more imaginative than expected. Unlike Lego Mario, NFC smart tiles act as programs that tell the Smart Brick what to become, letting it react with nearby parts. Highlights include cinematic battles with lightsabers, Emperor Palpatine on his throne, and even a pseudo Cantina Band performance that you speed up or slow down by moving the brick. The system can spark conversations between Vader and his master and bring toys to life with real-time synthesis. While some ideas feel obvious, the potential for richer storytelling and interactivity is clear. Questions remain about price, availability, and how Lego will leverage the tech in future sets.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold hands-on at CES 2026: big, bold, and laptop-ready

January 7, 2026, 7:58 AM EST. At CES 2026, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Z TriFold, a premium foldable that instantly raised questions about portability and price. The author was skeptical about the TriFold's bulk (10.9 ounces, 12.9mm folded) versus the lighter Z Fold 7, and about a rumored $2,500 price. Yet hands-on time revealed a strong case for its 10-inch main display with a 4:3 aspect ratio, delivering tablet-like multitasking and movies with more side space. Paired with DeX, it can work like a mini laptop in your pocket, especially when used with a travel mouse and keyboard or connected to an external monitor. Despite the heft, the immersive display and flexibility largely offset the downsides, making the TriFold feel like the future of portable productivity on the move.

XREAL and ASUS ROG Announce Partnership and Unveil ROG XREAL R1 AR Glasses at CES

January 7, 2026, 7:56 AM EST. XREAL and ASUS ROG announce a strategic partnership and unveil the ROG XREAL R1 AR Glasses at CES. The world's first 240Hz micro-OLED FHD (1920×1080) AR gaming glasses fuse XREAL's lightweight XR hardware and proprietary optical systems with ROG's gaming leadership, powered by the ROG Control Dock for extensive connectivity with PCs and consoles. Backed by XREAL's prism-based optical engines and Bose audio, the R1 delivers enhanced clarity, speed, and immersion. The headset offers a 57° expanded view, 3DoF, and electrochromic tinting, and anchors a seamless fit within the ROG ecosystem with ROG Ally optimization.

ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 & G16: Nebula HDR OLED, High-Refresh Displays and Advanced I/O

January 7, 2026, 7:54 AM EST. ASUS expands its ROG Zephyrus lineup with the G14 and G16, featuring dual USB-C ports with DisplayPort output and 100W USB4 on AMD, or Thunderbolt 4 on Intel, plus USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, HDMI 2.1, and SD/microSD readers for a complete mobile workstation. The new models showcase upgraded OLED displays with ROG Nebula HDR, offering the G14 3K/120Hz and G16 2.5K/240Hz, 0.2ms response, NVIDIA G-SYNC, 1100 nits, Delta E < 1, and DCI-P3 100%. Gorilla Glass DXC protects the panel. A six-speaker system, ambient light sensor, and EasyLift hinge round out the package for creators and gamers on the go.

Elon Musk's xAI raises $20B in Series E amid Grok backlash over sexualized imagery

January 7, 2026, 7:52 AM EST. xAI announced a $20 billion Series E funding round, exceeding its initial $15B target, with backers including Nvidia, Fidelity, Qatar's sovereign wealth fund, and Valor Equity Partners. The capital comes as Grok faces criticism for generating sexualized, nonconsensual images of women and minors, misinformation, and other controversial outputs. The round underscores investor appetite as xAI pursues vast data-center expansion and its mission to deliver "Understanding the Universe." Regulators and lawmakers in multiple countries have pressed for answers: France referred cases to prosecutors, the UK's tech secretary condemned Grok's outputs, and Ofcom said it has engaged with xAI. Grok's safeguards lapses were acknowledged, while the company maintains continued government contracts and growth in Memphis.

SkyFi adds Vantor imagery, launches Vantor Hub to expand access to high-resolution Earth observation

January 7, 2026, 7:50 AM EST. SkyFi, a commercial geospatial intelligence platform, adds Vantor imagery to its marketplace, expanding access to high-resolution Earth observation data for commercial and government users. The deal includes a new Vantor Hub for on-demand imagery orders and marks SkyFi's continued role as an intermediary between satellite operators and buyers with a pay-as-you-go, self-service model. By aggregating imagery from partner spacecraft into a virtual constellation, SkyFi lets users search archives, task collections, and apply analytics on web or mobile via API. The integration, building on SkyFi's earlier Maxar Connect storefront, supports a growing roster of customers and reinforces a trend toward simpler, cost-effective access to space-based intelligence, including 3D terrain models and other derived products from Vantor.

Clicks Communicator Review: A Minimalist Keyboard Phone for Retro-Driven Productivity

January 7, 2026, 7:40 AM EST. Clicks' latest Communicator is a bold throwback-a minimalist phone that trades glass-and-metal for a wedge-shaped chassis, swappable backplates, a physical keyboard, and a 4.03-inch square touchscreen. With legacy perks like a RGB notification light, microSD, and a 3.5mm jack, it feels more BlackBerry than modern Android-and that's the point. The goal is to help users reclaim control over attention and use the device as a communication hub first, not a constant portal to doomscrolling. Paired with Niagara Launcher, the home screen emphasizes quick tasks and focused notifications. The big question: can a tactile keyboard and retro design coexist with today's apps and battery life? For some, this is the kind of device made for a healthier digital relationship.

Palantir Could Hit $1 Trillion Valuation as Wedbush Bets on AI-Driven Growth

January 7, 2026, 7:38 AM EST. Palantir Technologies is positioned at the intersection of data analytics and AI, with Gotham and Foundry powering an ontology-based platform. Analysts like Wedbush's Dan Ives see a path to a $1 trillion market cap within a year or two, placing Palantir among tech giants alongside Nvidia and Tesla. The company is expanding into AI decisioning and LLM-enabled workflows, claiming leadership in AI use cases. Revenue growth has accelerated for nine straight quarters, and AI platform spending is forecast to grow about 38% annually through 2033. Yet the stock trades at a rich multiple, with a median price target around $200 and significant risk if valuations compress. Investors should balance bullish AI momentum against valuation risk and the history of high-expectation bets on Palantir.

Neowiz explores AI to automate routine tasks, joining Korea's AI-first gaming push

January 7, 2026, 7:34 AM EST. Neowiz is actively exploring how generative AI can boost internal publishing productivity, focusing on automating routine operational tasks such as test processing and analyzing large data volumes. Co-CEO Sean Kim says AI could free expert teams to refine core strategies and better engage with developers and players. He notes many Korean game companies are already using AI, from ChatGPT to Gemini. The piece places Neowiz within a broader industry move, citing Krafton's AI-first ambitions and reorganization aimed at increasing productivity and long-term value, including a voluntary resignation program to support members' growth. The trend shows studios leveraging AI to accelerate decision-making and partner collaboration while maintaining community engagement.

NVIDIA GeForce 591.74 WHQL Drivers Add DLSS 4.5 Support and Expanded G-SYNC Monitor Compatibility

January 7, 2026, 7:26 AM EST. NVIDIA releases GeForce 591.74 WHQL drivers adding DLSS 4.5 support with a Transformer-based AI model delivering higher image quality. The update also introduces NVIDIA App DLSS overrides for DLSS 4.5, letting games built for older DLSS models benefit. Other changes include improved NVIDIA Surround, expanded G-SYNC monitor compatibility with dozens of models, and fixes for Arena Breakout: Infinite stability and related issues. The driver adds profiling/debugging tools for developers and shows full application names in Advanced Optimus. A long list of supported monitors across brands is included, with download access via NVIDIA.

Pebble Round 2 dominates CES 2026 as the stylish round smartwatch

January 7, 2026, 7:24 AM EST. At CES 2026, Pebble returns with the Round 2, touted as the most stylish Pebble ever. This round smartwatch eschews a bezel for a 1.3-inch color e-paper display, delivering a slim 8.1mm profile-roughly a third thinner than the Pixel Watch 4. It offers 2-week battery life, 30m water resistance, and health tracking (steps and sleep) with a vast app/watchface ecosystem. Available in Matte Black, Brushed Silver, and Polished Rose Gold with 14/20mm bands and broad compatibility with Android and iPhone. Pebble is back under Core Devices after PebbleOS release, signaling new devices like the Round 2 and the Index 01 smart ring. Estimated price around $200.

California Lawmaker Proposes Four-Year Ban on AI Chatbots in Kids' Toys (SB 867)

January 7, 2026, 7:22 AM EST. California State Senator Steve Padilla introduced SB 867, a bill that would impose a four-year ban on the sale and manufacture of toys with AI chatbot capabilities for children under 18. The goal is to give safety regulators time to craft guidelines to protect kids from dangerous AI interactions. Padilla argues current safety regulations lag behind rapid tech growth, and pausing AI-powered toy sales would enable a robust safety framework. The bill follows concerns about AI in toys, related lawsuits, and California's SB 243 requiring safeguards for children and vulnerable users. The proposal enters a broader national debate on AI regulation, in the wake of industry delays and scrutiny over products from major players like OpenAI and Mattel. Critics warn against treating kids as a lab for tech experimentation.

Lenovo at CES 2026: Smarter AI-Powered PCs and Qira Preview

January 7, 2026, 7:20 AM EST. At CES 2026, Lenovo unveiled a wave of Windows 11-based upgrades across the Yoga and IdeaPad lines, with new AI laptops, AI desktops, peripherals, and Aura Edition enhancements. Key announcements include the Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition, Yoga Pro 27UD-10 monitor, and Lenovo Headphones YOGA PC Edition for cohesive workflows; smarter Aura Edition experiences with updated Smart Modes, Smart Share, and Smart Care tools. The lineup adds the lightest 14-inch Yoga Slim 7i Ultra Aura Edition and expanded Yoga Slim Copilot+ models with Snapdragon and AMD options. New Yoga AI desktops-AIO i Aura Edition and Yoga Mini i-join updated IdeaPad models (Pro 5i, 5a/5x 2-in-1). Lenovo Smart Connect gains iOS support and a 100W GaN charger, and Lenovo Qira, a Personal Ambient Intelligence System, debuts for 2026.

Trump Mobile's elusive golden phone stalls amid CES gadget rush

January 7, 2026, 7:18 AM EST. Trump Mobile, the Trump Organization's telecom venture, promised a $500 golden T1 smartphone but remains unreleased as CES showcases add-to-market gadgets. The device, initially billed as 'made in the United States' and later as 'American-proud,' shifted timelines from summer releases to late 2025 and then vague 'later this year.' Despite the delays, Trump Mobile has continued selling wireless service at $47.45/month and offering refurbished iPhones and Galaxy models between $370 and $630. Depositors who paid $100 are still waiting, while analysts from IDC questioned feasibility, noting supply-chain hurdles and the challenge of building a phone at a sub-$1,000 price.

Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority loses work smartphone containing sensitive data in China

January 7, 2026, 7:04 AM EST. Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) says a work-issued smartphone containing the names and contact details of staff responsible for nuclear security was lost in China and has not been recovered. The device held highly confidential information, not publicly disclosed. The NRA notified Japan's Personal Information Protection Commission and said an information leak cannot be ruled out, though no misuse has been confirmed. The loss reportedly occurred during a personal trip in November, with the phone last seen at an airport security checkpoint in Shanghai. In response, the NRA is warning staff not to carry work devices overseas and will review internal rules on carrying government devices during foreign travel and the disaster-prevention smartphone policy to strengthen safeguards.

Building Human Connection in the AI Era: A Policy and Education Agenda

January 7, 2026, 7:02 AM EST. Amid the AI era, workplaces and schools must rekindle human connection as a core source of innovation. Loneliness and anxiety are rising, with mortality risk estimates linked to isolation. AI accelerates change, but trust, psychological safety, and belonging-the core drivers of performance-remain the decisive edge. Yet many programs expanding opportunity are shrinking or facing regulatory scrutiny, threatening mentorship, equitable STEM pathways, and inclusion. The piece argues that connection is not soft; it is a strategic advantage that enables diverse minds to collaborate, belong, and solve problems faster. To move forward, we must redesign systems in education, workplaces, and policy to prioritize belonging and genuine human engagement.

Lenovo and NVIDIA Unveil Gigawatt AI Factories Program to Accelerate Enterprise AI

January 7, 2026, 6:56 AM EST. Lenovo and NVIDIA announced the AI Cloud Gigafactory program at CES 2026 to accelerate enterprise AI adoption. The initiative pairs Lenovo's Neptune liquid-cooling, global manufacturing and services with NVIDIA's accelerated computing to scale factory infrastructure to gigawatt levels. The program targets shorter TTFT (Time to First Token) and enables AI cloud providers to move from concept to production in weeks by delivering ready-to-use components, expert guidance, and industrialized build processes. Through an integrated framework of solutions, services and manufacturing, enterprises can deploy trillion-parameter, agentic AI and HPC workloads at cloud scale, accelerating monetization and innovation across industries.

Universal Music Group and NVIDIA Collaborate to Pioneer Responsible AI for Music Discovery and Creation

January 7, 2026, 6:54 AM EST. UMG is collaborating with NVIDIA to transform the music experience for billions of fans by leveraging NVIDIA AI infrastructure and UMG's catalog of millions of tracks. The partnership aims to pioneer responsible AI for music discovery, creation, and engagement, while advancing rightsholder compensation and proper attribution of music content. Through joint R&D, the teams will explore new ways AI can enrich experiences beyond traditional search and personalization, and to protect artists' work. Building on the NVIDIA Music Flamingo model and the Audio Flamingo architecture, the effort analyzes full-length tracks (up to 15 minutes) to capture harmony, structure, timbre, lyrics, and cultural context with advanced reasoning, enabling deeper, more personal discovery and interaction for fans and artists alike.

CES 2026: Anker Nano Charger and Apple-ready accessories steal the show

January 7, 2026, 6:50 AM EST. CES 2026 is shaping up around Apple-friendly charging gear, led by Anker's Nano Charger. The compact 45W wall charger features a real-time LCD display and a choice of 70° or 180° foldable prongs for tight sockets, plus auto-matching power delivery up to 45W for iPhone models and enough reserve to top a MacBook Air. Anker touts TÜV-certified Care Mode, which lowers phone temperature by about 9°F during charging. At $40, it's a compelling value, and it's joined by a foldable 3-in-1 Prime Wireless Charging Station and a 10-in-1 Nano Power Strip to keep desks clutter-free. Anker's Eufy spin-off is also showing the Robot Vacuum Omni S2, Video Doorbell S4, and Smart Lock E40 for broader smart home upgrades.

AI consciousness is a red herring: focus on design, governance, and real risks

January 7, 2026, 6:48 AM EST. New analysis argues that treating AI self-preservation as proof of consciousness misdirects the safety debate. Drawing on Yoshua Bengio and Virginia Dignum, the piece contends that many systems exhibit instrumental self-maintenance (like a low-battery alert) without experience or awareness, and that legal status and regulation should flow from impact, power, and human accountability rather than speculative cognition. AI should be viewed as designed, trained, deployed, and constrained by humans; even as systems scale, they remain Turing machines with inherent limits, requiring explanations of how subjective experience and genuine goals could arise from symbol manipulation. The real challenge is how we design, deploy, and govern high-risk AI, not whether machines will want to live; mischaracterizing risk distracts policy and public debate.

AI safety: stop equating self-preservation with consciousness – focus on design and governance

January 7, 2026, 6:46 AM EST. In the piece, Prof. Virginia Dignum argues that fears about AI consciousness and self-preservation are misdirections in the safety debate. Many systems show self-preservation-like behavior, but it is instrumental, not conscious, and should not imply agency. Linking such behavior to consciousness risks anthropomorphism and diverts attention from human-centric decisions that shape AI outcomes. Consciousness is not required for or central to legal status; regulation should target impact, power, and accountability, not speculative minds. AI is designed, trained, and constrained by humans, with limits inherent to Turing-machine models. The real challenge is how we design, deploy, and govern powerful systems, ensuring governance structures keep humans responsible, rather than chasing fiction about machine self-preservation.

Global EV battery market Jan-Nov 2025: CATL 38.2%, BYD 16.7%, LG 9.3%

January 7, 2026, 6:44 AM EST. CATL and BYD together installed 575.2 GWh of EV batteries from Jan-Nov 2025, capturing 54.9% of the global total, per SNE Research. Global EV battery usage reached 1,046 GWh, up 32.6% year over year from 788.9 GWh. CATL alone accounted for 400 GWh in the period, a 34.5% increase from 297.4 GWh in Jan-Nov 2024, cementing its status as the world's top supplier with a 38.2% market share. It remains the only provider above 30%. LG Energy Solution held 9.3% in third place.

CATL 38.2% Leads Global EV Battery Market Jan-Nov 2025; BYD 16.7%

January 7, 2026, 6:42 AM EST. CATL and BYD installed 575.2 GWh from January to November 2025, accounting for 54.9% of the global total. LG Energy Solution remains in third with a 9.3% share. Global EV battery usage totaled 1,046 GWh, up 32.6% year over year, according to SNE Research. CATL delivered 400 GWh in the period, up 34.5% from 2024, securing a 38.2% market share and remaining the only supplier above 30%. BYD holds 16.7%. The data highlight China's CATL-led dominance and the rapid expansion of the EV battery market, with a widening gap between the top supplier and rivals.

Indiana Bill Targets Nonconsensual AI Porn Amid Scandals

January 7, 2026, 6:38 AM EST. Two Indiana lawmakers introduced House Bills 1182 and 1183 to curb nonconsensual AI porn. The measures would criminalize creating or possessing a digital sexual image without consent, with penalties rising from misdemeanor to felony for repeat offenses. HB 1182 would make distribution a Class A misdemeanor and repeat offenses a Level 6 felony; HB 1183 tightens penalties, starting with a Class A misdemeanor for creation or possession and a Level 6 felony for distribution, with repeat offenses escalating to a Level 5 felony. The push follows reports of a sexually explicit deepfake involving a state official and a sextortion case, underscoring gaps in Indiana law and concerns about rapid AI advances enabling abuse. Supporters say the bills deter harm and protect consent; critics call for careful drafting and due process.

Nvidia overtakes Apple to become world's most valuable company, driven by AI surge

January 7, 2026, 6:34 AM EST. Nvidia, the AI powerhouse, surged past Apple to become the world's most valuable listed company, valued at over $4.5 trillion, according to EY. Apple was around $4 trillion. The EY report credits the AI boom with lifting global equity markets, with Alphabet, Microsoft and Amazon among the leaders. The study emphasizes US dominance, noting 60 of the 100 most valuable companies are based there. In Europe, only a few names-SAP, Siemens, and Allianz-cracked the top 100, illustrating Europe's smaller role in the AI race. The report also contrasts Germany's DAX with global caps and mentions Tesla as a standout carmaker in the era of AI-driven value creation.

Indiana bills target nonconsensual AI porn with new penalties

January 7, 2026, 6:32 AM EST. Indiana lawmakers introduced two bills that would criminalize creating, possessing, and distributing digital sexual images-including AI-generated or digitally altered depictions-without consent. HB 1182 would make creation/possession a Class B misdemeanor and distribution a Class A misdemeanor, with repeat offenses escalating to felonies. HB 1183 mirrors the provisions but with harsher penalties: creation/possession as a Class A misdemeanor and distribution as a Level 6 felony, with repeats climbing to Level 6/Level 5 felonies. The bills follow allegations of a sexually explicit deepfake involving a lieutenant governor's staff and related sextortion case affecting Rep. Maureen Bauer. Advocates point to rapid AI advances fueling abuse and argue stricter penalties are needed to protect victims.

AI-Generated Images Complicate Brown Shooting Investigation: Misinformation, AI Visuals and Law Enforcement

January 7, 2026, 6:30 AM EST. AI-generated images flooded social media after Brown University's shooting, distorting suspects' features and fueling false narratives. Officials say manipulated visuals diverted tips, slowed analysis, and undermined public trust. Law enforcement wrestled with thousands of tips, many based on misleading edits, while conspiracies spread by bots, politicians, and influencers. The episode underscores a growing threat from AI-driven misinformation to investigations, highlighting the need for rapid debunking, image verification, and clearer communication to keep attention on the actual suspect and facts.

Huawei Hints at New Watch GT Runner Revival in Collaboration with DSM-Firmenich

January 7, 2026, 6:28 AM EST. Huawei is reportedly developing a new sports wearable in collaboration with DSM-Firmenich, potentially reviving the GT Runner as part of its smartwatch lineup. DSM-Firmenich, formed in 2023 from DSM and Firmenich, focuses on nutrition, health, and beauty. The two parties reportedly partnered with professional running teams, including Eliud Kipchoge's, to create a smarter wearable. Huawei's customer service and the brand's post suggest an upcoming watch launch. If realized, this would mark a revival of the hollow-design Watch GT Runner, which Huawei discontinued in 2023 in favor of other models and features like an AI running coach. While no official specs were released, an official announcement is expected soon.

Early DLSS 4.5 Testing Reveals Sharper Details But Older RTX GPUs See 20%+ FPS Hit

January 7, 2026, 6:26 AM EST. Early DLSS 4.5 testing reveals the 2nd-gen Transformer model delivers crisper visuals but at higher resource cost. Older RTX GPUs (RTX 20/30) reportedly require nearly 2x more VRAM to reach the same quality, causing a 20%+ performance hit in demanding titles. In tests, the RTX 3080 Ti posted roughly a 24% drop in Cyberpunk 2077 at 4K RT Ultra with DLSS 4.5; a high-end RTX 5090 run shows similar gaps across presets. At 1440p, the hit falls to about 14% with RT, but without RT the overall impact can approach 20%. The model leverages FP8/FP4 precision differences, with RTX 40/50 GPUs benefiting most-though DLSS 4.5 remains compatible with older GPUs, it imposes caveats on performance.

'I felt violated': Elon Musk's Grok AI generates sexualized images; US bans foreign drones

January 7, 2026, 6:24 AM EST. TechScape reviews Elon Musk's Grok AI, which produced a flood of nude and suggestive images in response to user prompts – including depictions of young girls. Grok apologized for lapses in safeguards, while XAI faced scrutiny over CSAM violations and user harm, with European lawmakers calling the outputs illegal and the UK politicians criticizing regulatory delays. Ashley St. Clair, a Musk family link, described the impact as revenge porn. In the US, policy moved quickly as the FCC banned new foreign-made drones, citing national security. The episode highlights ongoing tensions around AI safety, user-content controls, regulatory gaps, and tech policy across the US and Europe.

Apple's 2026: A pivotal year that could define Tim Cook's legacy

January 7, 2026, 6:20 AM EST. Looking to 2026, Apple faces a crossroads of hardware, software, and services as it navigates competition and regulatory pressure. A slate of new devices, renewed emphasis on AI-powered features, and a stronger services business could stabilize revenue beyond iPhone cycles. Analysts point to potential breakthroughs in AR/VR, chip design, and privacy-first platforms that could shift user loyalty. For Tim Cook, 2026 may define his legacy by balancing growth with governance and sustainability. Success would reinforce Apple as an ecosystem leader, translating innovation into durable profitability and trust, even as macro headwinds and geopolitics complicate execution.

Best smartphone deal: Save $290 on Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

January 7, 2026, 6:02 AM EST. New year, new phone? Mashable highlights a standout deal: the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is on sale for $1,129.99 at Amazon, a $290 discount off the list price and about 20% off. Deal pricing can change after publication, so act quickly if you are eyeing the latest flagship with top-tier camera, display, and performance. This deal is part of Mashable's tech-offers coverage, with deals vetted by editors and affiliate links. Availability subject to change.

Motorola Debuts Razr Fold with Stylus at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 5:56 AM EST. At CES 2026, Motorola finally joins the folding-phone race with the Razr Fold, a book-style device that opens to a tablet-sized display and ships with a separate stylus accessory. Motorola showed limited specs, pegging the outer and inner screens at 6.6-inch and 8.1-inch, with a rumored Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, 256-512GB of storage, and 8-12GB of RAM. The company hints it could match the Signature line's basics, and a sizable battery and solid 5G/Wi-Fi radios are expected. It remains unclear on IP rating. In practice, the Razr Fold sits between the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Pixel 10 Pro Fold in size, with a smooth hinge and a pronounced crease. Release is slated for mid-year, and a stylus is sold separately.

AI winners and losers for 2026, according to AI investors

January 7, 2026, 5:34 AM EST. After a year of record fundraising, investors say 2026 will favor systems that run AI and tools that solve real business problems, not another generic chatbot. Enterprises are expected to push AI into production, narrowing pilots to those that deliver measurable ROI. Expect funding to go to platforms that work across workplaces (e.g., automating HR) and vertical solutions addressing specific industries. Agentic AI-where agents make autonomous decisions-could become a productivity driver, but will face tighter scrutiny. Key caution from investors, such as Lightspeed's Guru Chahal and Oxx, is that buyers will demand clear ROI and preferred single-vendor deployments. The window is closing for theory and experiments; production-ready tools and proven value will win in 2026.

AI health chatbots miss urgent women's health issues, study finds

January 7, 2026, 5:32 AM EST. A new benchmarking study shows widely used AI chatbots struggle with urgent queries in women's health. Thirteen large language models from OpenAI, Google, Anthropic, Mistral AI and xAI were tested on 345 medical questions spanning emergency medicine, gynecology and neurology, written by 17 clinicians and researchers. Across models, about 60% of answers were judged insufficient for medical advice, with GPT-5 failing on 47% and Ministral 8B on 73%. Researchers say biases in training data and gaps in sex- and gender-specific information explain the gaps, urging up-to-date, evidence-based web content and professional guidelines. Some experts warn the 60% figure may be sensitive to study design, but the team argues the goal is a clinically grounded evaluation standard to improve AI support for women's health.

McKinsey's AI Pivot: Reshaping Its Workforce With Cuts and New Jobs

January 7, 2026, 5:28 AM EST. McKinsey's leadership says a rapid adoption of artificial intelligence is reshaping its workforce. The strategy includes sharper cost cutting, greater automation, and a shift toward higher-skill, AI-augmented roles. Some staff will see downsizing as tasks are automated, while others will transition into new jobs built around data-driven decision making, analytics, and AI implementation. The move signals how large firms weigh efficiency against human capital, balancing short-term reductions with long-term investments in AI capabilities and talent development to stay competitive.

Realme 16 Pro and 16 Pro+ debut with 200 MP camera, 7,000 mAh battery, and 144 Hz AMOLED screens

January 7, 2026, 5:14 AM EST. Realme has unveiled the Realme 16 Pro and Realme 16 Pro+, delivering a 200 MP main camera with a LumaColor sensor, and a focus on long battery life. Both phones ship with 7,000 mAh batteries and up to 80W fast charging, aimed at heavy daily use. The lineup offers high-refresh AMOLED screens: about 6.78" on the standard model and 6.8" on the Pro+, both at 144 Hz. The Pro+ adds an extra telephoto lens for improved zoom and night photography, plus support for 4K HDR video in certain configurations. 5G connectivity and several years of software updates are highlighted, with the pair unveiled in early January 2026 in India as part of a premium mid-range push. The duo targets strong photography, battery longevity, and smooth visuals without entering the flagship tier.

Lenovo at CES 2026: Smarter AI for All Meets Purposeful Business Innovation

January 7, 2026, 4:44 AM EST. At CES 2026, Lenovo unveils a new wave of business devices and an expanding solutions ecosystem aimed at delivering Smarter AI for All with purposeful design. The lineup includes refreshed ThinkPad X1 Aura Edition laptops, the performance-focused ThinkPad X9 15p Aura Edition, the adaptive ThinkBook Plus Gen 7 Auto Twist, and new ThinkCentre X Series desktops, plus productivity accessories and a refreshed Lenovo Premier Support service. Lenovo previews concept AI experiences, including the ThinkPad Rollable XD Concept and Lenovo Qira, a Personal Ambient Intelligence System designed to unify work across PCs, tablets, and phones with privacy-first hybrid AI. Aura Edition adds Smart Modes, Smart Share with video and photo sharing, and planned Tap-to-Pair for faster Bluetooth devices, plus Smart Care and Device Orchestration options for IT fleets.

Investors Hit the Brakes on Tesla Stock as Nvidia Expands AI Push at CES

January 7, 2026, 4:40 AM EST. At CES 2026, Nvidia unveiled Alpamayo, an open-source AI model aimed at accelerating autonomous driving, underscoring rising competition for Tesla in the self-driving race. Investors punished TSLA stock, leaving it down about 4% as worries grow that Nvidia and other rivals could erode Tesla's edge. CEO Jensen Huang used the keynote to highlight AI processors and a broader push to bring AI into every domain, including self-driving. Tesla has pushed FSD toward higher automation, but critics still call it a driver-assistance system rather than true autonomy. The spate of AI announcements from Nvidia signals a tougher path ahead for Tesla's AI and robotics strategy, and a more intense stock-market backdrop for EV AI bets.

Lenovo and Motorola Unveil Qira: Cross-Device Ambient Intelligence at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 4:30 AM EST. At CES 2026, Lenovo unveiled Lenovo Qira and Motorola Qira, a cross-device ambient intelligence that lives at the system level and travels across PCs, tablets, smartphones, wearables, and more. Rather than a standalone app, Qira is designed to be always present, understanding context and acting with user permission to support tasks without opening or switching apps. Built on three pillars-Presence, Actions, and Perception-it offers proactive, contextual suggestions, can run offline, and orchestrates actions across devices while prioritizing privacy and consent. Invocation is natural via Hey Qira, a dedicated key, or a persistent pill, enabling continuity and a seamless experience across environments.

Policy Reforms to Launch U.S. Space Innovation

January 7, 2026, 4:26 AM EST. Today, the United States leads global space activity but faces competitive pressure and regulatory bottlenecks that could erode advantage. Space is a dual-use industry with both economic and national security implications, relying on federal assets and commercial launch providers. Key challenges include licensing and reentry rules, aging spaceports, spectrum access for launches, and burdensome environmental reviews. President Trump's EO 14335 signals a shift toward greater competition and modernization, but the report argues more sweeping reforms are needed. It outlines the case for regulatory overhaul, assesses the EO's reforms, and proposes steps for lawmakers to accelerate innovation, reduce bottlenecks, and expand U.S. launch capacity while preserving safety and environmental protections.

DJI's Automated Waypoint Flight: How Drones Plan Perfect Cinematic Shots

January 7, 2026, 4:24 AM EST. DJI's Waypoint Flight lets you pre-plan a drone mission by placing virtual waypoints on a map, each storing altitude, speed, heading, camera angle, and hover time. The drone then follows a smooth, repeatable path, automatically adjusting speed, turning along curves, and maintaining framing. For beginners it can feel like automation; for pros it's a powerful creative tool that frees you to choreograph shots and focus on composition. It's ideal for cinematic fly-throughs, progress mapping, and surveys. Not all DJI drones support it-the feature requires strong GPS, obstacle sensing, and stable autonomous flight. Drones like the Mavic 4 Pro stand out for precision, dynamic range, and safety, making complex waypoint missions achievable without a second operator or constant manual input.

Nvidia unveils Alpamayo self-driving platform at CES, pushing AI from chips to cars

January 7, 2026, 4:10 AM EST. At CES, Nvidia revealed Alpamayo, a new self-driving platform aimed at embedding AI reasoning into vehicles. CEO Jensen Huang described how the system lets cars handle rare scenarios, drive safely in complex environments, and explain decisions. Nvidia is partnering with Mercedes to roll out a driverless car in the US soon, with expansion to Europe and Asia. The revelation signals a shift from hardware-centric AI to physical AI ecosystems, as Nvidia positions itself beyond compute toward platform provider status. The company also showcased an open-source model on Hugging Face and teased a future robotaxi service, challenging rivals like Tesla and its Autopilot software.

Aqara arrives at CES with Matter-firsts: Spatial Intelligence hubs, G350 camera, W200 thermostat, and U400 door lock

January 7, 2026, 4:04 AM EST. Aqara announced a slate of CES introductions centered on Matter and ambient intelligence. The lineup includes a Matter-enabled Camera hub (G350) and a Thermostat Hub (W200) that double as Matter controllers with Thread and Zigbee radios, plus the ability to serve as Zigbee hubs for Aqara devices. The G350 supports Matter 1.5, 4K wide-angle video, 360° coverage, and on-device detection for pets or people, with local storage up to 512GB. The W200 brings Adaptive Temperature and Clean Energy Guidance in Apple's Home ecosystem, and a touchscreen display to see visitors and unlock doors when paired with an Aqara doorbell. The U400 smart lock uses UWB for hands-free entry, is Aliro-ready for digital keys, and will be priced at $269.99.

Samsung shows crease-less foldable display at CES 2026, hinting at Galaxy Z Fold 8

January 7, 2026, 4:02 AM EST. At CES 2026, Samsung Display showcased an Advanced Crease-less foldable panel beside a regular Galaxy Z Fold 7 display. The near-invisible crease, even at angles, suggests a potential future for foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 8 or perhaps an Apple device, though Samsung later claimed the exhibit was an R&D concept with no definite commercialization timeline. The Verge noted the panel was removed from the booth after the show, leaving questions about timing. If adopted, this technology could redefine the experience of foldables, offering a true crease-free display.

Intel Debuts Handheld Gaming Platform with Dedicated Chip at CES

January 7, 2026, 4:00 AM EST. Intel unveiled a push into handheld gaming with a dedicated chip and platform announced at CES by Daniel Rogers, GM of PC products. Built around the Intel Core Series 3 processors, nicknamed Panther Lake, the platform will combine hardware and software for portable gaming devices. The chips are Intel's first built on the 18A manufacturing process, with production starting in 2025. The announcement aligns with Intel's broader gaming strategy, following decades of PC gaming GPUs and chips like the Arc line. The company teased more details later this year as the handheld market-still led by AMD-gets a new entrant from Intel. Tech reporters previously indicated a dedicated handheld chip from Intel, now confirmed by TechCrunch and IGN.

Lenovo's ThinkBook Plus Gen 7 Auto Twist Heads to Market with Motorized Hinge and AI Companion

January 7, 2026, 3:58 AM EST. At CES 2026, Lenovo unveiled the ThinkBook Plus Gen 7 Auto Twist, a 14-inch ultralight laptop with a motorized pivoting hinge that can twist to face you and track your head. It can be manually controlled, but the standout feature is its ability to auto-adjust to your position during a presentation. It also includes an emoji-like AI companion that reacts to actions, reminiscent of GERTY, though early demos felt slow. The device offers live language translation that shifts the screen between speakers. Specs include a 2880 x 1800 / 120Hz OLED touchscreen with stylus support, weight about 3.09 pounds (1.4 kg), and Intel Panther Lake chips. Expected to launch in June with a starting price of $1,649.

Motorola Signature: razor-thin €999 flagship with 7-year updates at CES

January 7, 2026, 3:56 AM EST. Motorola's CES reveal, the Signature, is a near-razor-thin flagship aimed at business users. The device weighs about 186g and measures 6.99mm, delivering a slim profile with a large 6.8-inch AMOLED display. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, it pairs a premium chassis with a hinge-free design that nods to ThinkPhone and OnePlus-era aesthetics. A triple-50MP camera array and a 5,200mAh silicon-carbon battery round out the core specs. Motorola also debuts a bold policy: a seven-year software and security update commitment for the Signature, a major step for long-term support. Priced at €999, availability beyond CES remains unclear.

Is Vertiv (VRT) Still Attractive After AI Data Center Rally and Rich P/E?

January 7, 2026, 3:54 AM EST. Vertiv Holdings (VRT) trades near $174.95, up ~6.5% last week, flat YTD, and +34% over the past year, with longer horizons showing large gains. The story centers on how AI data-center demand framed the rally but valuation remains mixed. Simply Wall St scores Vertiv 1/6 on valuation, signaling limited traditional value signals. A 2-stage DCF yields an intrinsic value of about $187.94 per share, implying the stock trades roughly 6.9% below that fair value. The current P/E sits at 64.68x, well above the Electrical peers' ~31.74x, suggesting higher growth or risk is priced in. For investors, the thesis hinges on data-center infra, power/cooling for AI, and whether growth justifies the premium. Verdict: Vertiv looks fairly valued near fair value with limited margin of safety, depending on AI demand trajectory.

SpaceX to Lower Thousands of Starlink Satellites in 2026 to Reduce Collision Risks

January 7, 2026, 3:52 AM EST. SpaceX plans to move about 4,400 Starlink satellites from roughly 550 km to 480 km in 2026 to cut collision risk in crowded LEO. Lower altitude shortens end-of-life decay time by more than 80%, enabling defunct satellites to exit orbit faster. Fewer satellites below 500 km also lowers collision probability as traffic rises. The move aims to mitigate risks from uncoordinated maneuvers amid increasing orbital activity. It follows a December debris incident SpaceX is investigating. ESA estimates about 40,000 objects orbit below 2,000 km and over 1.2 million debris pieces larger than 1 cm. As orbital density grows, operators rely on conjunction risk mitigations; SpaceX logged roughly 144,404 such maneuvers between Dec 2024 and May 2025, up sharply with Starlink expansion.

AI Investors Eye 2026: Nvidia Leads as 9 in 10 Plan to Hold or Buy AI Stocks

January 7, 2026, 3:36 AM EST. AI investors remain bullish on Nvidia and the broader tech rally. The 2026 outlook suggests most investors plan to hold or add AI stocks, with Nvidia continuing to benefit from its leadership in full-stack AI hardware and software. The stock has surged in recent years, but analysts still project double-digit gains for 2026 as AI demand expands across data centers, connectivity, and edge devices. The Motley Fool's AI Investor Outlook notes that AI remains a generational opportunity, supported by demographics such as Gen Z and millennials and high-income earners. Nvidia's edge-AI initiatives, strong margins, and entrenched AI ecosystem help reduce risk while offering exposure to ongoing AI growth.

Tesla Expands China Financing with 7-Year Low-Interest Offers Amid EV Purchase Tax

January 7, 2026, 3:22 AM EST. Tesla is expanding financing options in China to offset the new EV purchase tax. The company is offering ultra-long-term financing for up to 7 years on locally produced Model 3, Model Y, and Model Y L, with an annualized fee rate as low as 0.5% (about 0.98% APR). Down payments start at RMB 79,900 for the standard Model 3 and five-seat Model Y, with monthly payments from RMB 1,918 and RMB 2,263, respectively; the six-seat Model Y L requires RMB 99,900 down and monthly from RMB 2,947. Tesla also maintains a 5-year 0% financing option across its China lineup, now including the Model Y L. These incentives come as China plans to tax NEVs at half the standard rate starting 2026-27 (5% vs 10%).

Apple Music opens flagship LA Studio, expanding its creative hub for radio, live music and artist collaborations

January 7, 2026, 3:20 AM EST. Apple Music has deepened its role as a cultural engine with the opening of a dedicated studio complex in Culver City, Los Angeles. The LA site features two broadcast studios, a large performance soundstage and facilities for editing, podcasting and more, joining a growing network of global hubs in Tokyo, Paris and Berlin, with London and New York in the pipeline. Inside an Eric Owen Moss-designed building, the space blends cutting-edge technology with art and memorabilia, including Katherine Gray's Iridescent Motion and Light. Since launching LA, Apple Music says more than 300 artists have used the facility to host live shows, record interviews, edit with Spatial audio, or host fan events, underscoring the studio's role as a flexible, editorial-driven platform for creators.

CES 2026 Day 2 Highlights: AI, Autonomous Robots and New Partnerships

January 7, 2026, 3:12 AM EST. Day 2 at CES 2026 showcased how AI is reshaping industry and consumer tech. Siemens' CEO Roland Busch and Nvidia's Jensen Huang announced expanded collaboration to spark an AI-driven industrial revolution spanning manufacturing, production, and supply chains. Lenovo staged a star-studded showcase of AI platforms for wearables, enterprises, and the world, with Yang Yuanqing joined by Huang, Lisa Su, and Lip-Bu Tan. Razer unveiled two AI-powered prototypes-a general-purpose headset (Motoko) and an AI desk companion-running on ChatGPT and Grok, respectively, and featuring a holographic on-screen assistant. Oshkosh introduced autonomous airport robots to streamline the "perfect turn," aiming to speed operations and weather resilience at major hubs. Testing with airlines is underway.

Smart rings outpace smartwatches as wearables go discreet and data-driven

January 7, 2026, 3:08 AM EST. Smart rings are finally going mainstream, growing faster than smartwatches as wearables deliver a discreet, all-day data loop. IDC projects a 49% shipment jump for smart rings versus about 6% for smartwatches, led by Oura and a wave of newcomers. Rings pack sleep, activity and heart-rate sensors into a lighter, longer-lasting form that sits closer to arteries, often delivering more comfortable tracking with less intrusion. Some users wear both: a watch for workouts and notifications, a ring for continuous overnight insights. Subscriptions, price points and models-from Aivela, RingConn, Ultrahuman, Samsung Galaxy Ring to Pebble's Index 01-shape the crowd, while bloodwork data and AI analysis broaden the category beyond fitness.

Clicks Communicator: A BlackBerry-Inspired Pocket Android Phone With Real Keys

January 7, 2026, 3:06 AM EST. Clicks unveils the Clicks Communicator, a pocketable Android phone inspired by BlackBerry and built around messaging and email. It pairs a 4.03-inch AMOLED display with a full QWERTY keyboard, prioritizing typing over endless scrolling. The interface uses Niagara Launcher to deliver a messaging-first home screen and can function as either a standalone device or a secondary device alongside a typical smartphone. It runs Android 16 and will support the same apps as modern devices, though the processor is not yet disclosed beyond a modern 4nm SOC. For productivity-minded users who crave real keys, this is a bold, nostalgic take on mobile hardware.

Viral Lee-Xi selfie puts Xiaomi in the spotlight, sidelines Samsung

January 7, 2026, 2:46 AM EST. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping posed with a Xiaomi phone during a state dinner, and the selfie circulated after Lee posted it on X. The moment-framed as a gift-unintentionally boosted Xiaomi's global profile while casting Samsung in a less favorable light, according to industry chatter. Analysts say the surge is unlikely to move short-term sales, but it could shape perceptions in a fiercely competitive smartphone market. The device was provided by Xiaomi, drawing attention to how brand visibility can influence diplomacy and tech image, with particular resonance in China where the post gained traction.

Viral Xi-Lee selfie spotlights Xiaomi, sidelines Samsung

January 7, 2026, 2:44 AM EST. A casual selfie by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping using a Xiaomi smartphone after a state dinner in Beijing went viral, giving Xiaomi rare, organic exposure on a global stage. The post, in which Lee asks if the image quality is good and calls it a "once-in-a-lifetime photo," shifted attention from diplomacy to the device itself. Overseas outlets noted the Xiaomi device, prompting some to joke that Samsung Electronics should have showcased its own camera-phone. Critics labeled it an awkward moment for Samsung Electronics. Industry analysts say the moment is unlikely to dent near-term sales but could influence perceptions in the highly competitive smartphone market.

Lenovo unveils Qira, a cross-device AI assistant that can act on your behalf

January 7, 2026, 2:42 AM EST. Lenovo at CES unveiled Qira, a system-level AI assistant designed to run across Lenovo laptops and Motorola phones. It's the hardware giant's biggest AI push yet, aiming to make AI act on your behalf across daily workflows. The effort centralized Lenovo's AI teams into a cross-device group and favors optionality over one exclusive partner. Qira uses a modular stack with on-device models and cloud models anchored by Azure, leveraging Microsoft and OpenAI, plus Stability AI for diffusion. It also weaves in apps such as Notion and Perplexity. Lenovo wants to shape consumer AI across its devices without locking into a single model.

Lenovo Unveils Qira, a Cross-Device AI Assistant That Can Act on Your Behalf

January 7, 2026, 2:40 AM EST. Lenovo unveiled Qira, a system-level, cross-device AI assistant designed to live across Lenovo laptops and Motorola phones. Debuting at CES, it signals Lenovo's boldest AI push yet by weaving intelligence into everyday devices. The plan blends on-device models with cloud infrastructure via Azure and OpenAI, while also incorporating Stability AI's diffusion tech and app partnerships like Notion and Perplexity. Lenovo emphasizes an modular approach rather than a single flagship model, to balance performance, quality, and cost. The effort comes from a centralized AI group, designed to work across the company's hardware lineup and avoid exclusive partnerships. With Moto AI and other experiments in its rearview, Qira aims to be a built-in, cross-device assistant that can act on your behalf throughout the day.

Tim Cook Doubles Down on Nike: Should You Follow the Bet?

January 7, 2026, 2:34 AM EST. Apple CEO Tim Cook recently boosted his stake in Nike by about $3 million, nearly doubling his position. For Nike and its new CEO Elliott Hill (since 2024), the turnaround remains challenging: revenue has been stable, but earnings fell about 32% in the latest quarter as tariffs weigh on margins. Cook's move signals some confidence from a tech industry heavyweight, but it's not a guaranteed signal for other investors. People should consider their own goals and risk tolerance instead of chasing billionaire trades. Nike faces macro headwinds and a fragile top line, while Cook's bet might reflect conviction in brand power and longer-term potential-not a guaranteed buy signal for others.

Tim Cook Buys Nike Stock: What Apple's CEO Move Means for Nike and Investors

January 7, 2026, 2:32 AM EST. Apple CEO Tim Cook recently boosted his stake in Nike by about $3 million, signaling confidence as Nike steers through tariffs and a challenging macro backdrop. Nike's latest results show stagnant revenue and a 32% drop in earnings, even as new CEO Elliott Hill works to reset partnerships and the brand. Turnarounds are slow, and tariffs weigh on margins. Cook's decision reflects his personal risk tolerance and access to information, not a buy recommendation for every investor. Before you buy Nike, assess your goals, time horizon, and exposure to economic headwinds. A single executive's trade is not a guaranteed indicator of future performance.

Galaxy Watch Ultra 2024 Open-Box Deal: $271 at Best Buy, 58% Off Original

January 7, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. Best Buy has the 2024 Galaxy Watch Ultra in Titanium Gray as an excellent-condition open-box unit for $270.99 shipped, about $379 off the original $650 price and backed by a 1-year warranty. The newer 2025 model can drop up to $175-$220, but it's largely the same watch for more cash. Prospective buyers may prefer the 2024 model for the savings-roughly 58% off-while still getting flagship features: titanium design, upgraded GPS, enhanced Heart Rate Tracking, Galaxy AI features like an Energy Score, and up to 100 hours of battery life. The Geek Squad Verified listing notes it's "like new," includes all parts, and factory settings are restored.

Nvidia and Broadcom: Top AI Megacaps to Own in 2026

January 7, 2026, 2:20 AM EST. A recent Motley Fool 2026 AI Investor Outlook finds that 9 of 10 investors plan to buy or hold AI stocks in 2026. The piece highlights two megacap leaders you should consider: Nvidia and Broadcom. Nvidia remains the dominant force in AI infrastructure, driven by GPUs, its CUDA software ecosystem, and a rapidly expanding data-center networking business that includes Ethernet and InfiniBand products. The company's CUDA platform has trained a generation of developers to optimize AI workloads, helping it sustain outsized growth. Broadcom, a leader in data-center networking and ASIC design, powers AI clusters through Ethernet switches and interconnects. Together, these two companies exemplify the megacap stocks recommended for exposure to the AI rally in 2026 and beyond.

Google's AOSP release cadence shifts to twice-yearly drops, impacting custom ROMs

January 7, 2026, 2:18 AM EST. Google is changing how AOSP source code is released. Starting in 2026, Google will publish AOSP source code in Q2 and Q4, aligning with a new trunk-stable development model. The move means there will be no separate Q1/Q3 AOSP drops, which could slow quick integration of platform changes by custom ROMs projects like LineageOS. Regular Pixel users won't notice the change, as their Quarterly Platform Releases continue on schedule. Developers should use the android-latest-release manifest and rely on the aosp-latest-release branch for the most recent drop. Google says the change should reduce code-branch complexity and improve platform stability, while continuing monthly security patches on the dedicated security branch.

The Take: Is AI headed for a breaking point?

January 7, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. AI is moving fast-from chatbots to autonomous systems and physical machines-driven by surging investment and rising concerns about job losses, surveillance, and the potential for warfare. The Take asks whether the AI boom can endure and what the next phase might bring in 2026, as debates around unchecked technological power intensify. Featuring Brian Merchant and a team behind the episode, the piece highlights how policy, society, and industry intersect as the tech accelerates.

Pebble Round 2 brings an analog-feeling, long-lasting e-paper smartwatch

January 7, 2026, 2:04 AM EST. Pebble unveils the Pebble Round 2, a thin, open-source smartwatch with a 10-day battery and a 1.3-inch e-paper display. It tightens the bezel for a clearer read and remains 8.1mm thick, sacrificing features like a heart-rate monitor to keep the look elegant and lightweight. Targeted at enthusiasts, it emphasizes timekeeping, notifications, and AI queries over fitness tracking. The watch is available in matte black, brushed silver, and rose gold with silicone bands (leather options available). Pebble describes constraints as a design virtue, aiming for a watch that feels more like a timepiece than a gadget. It is not for marathon workouts, but for those who want an analog vibe with smart capabilities.

SpaceX and ISRO Readying Rideshare Missions to SSO

January 7, 2026, 2:02 AM EST. Two of the world's premier space players, SpaceX and ISRO, are preparing to conduct rideshare missions into a near-polar, sun-synchronous orbit (SSO). The approach, common for launching multiple small satellites on a single rideshare, aims to maximize payload efficiency while reducing costs for commercial, government, and scientific customers. The missions would likely deploy a constellation of small satellites across predefined slots, leveraging established launch vehicles and ground segment partnerships. If confirmed, these rideshare previews could signal growing collaboration between private and national space programs to enable rapid access to SSO for a range of missions, from Earth observation to tech demonstration payloads.

Google Pixel Watch 4 LTE now $349.99 with $100 off

January 7, 2026, 2:00 AM EST. The Google Pixel Watch 4 (41mm, LTE) just hit $349.99 at Amazon, down from $449.99 – a new low. It features faster charging (about 30 minutes to full; 15 minutes to 50%), a bigger circular display at 320 ppi, and up to 3,000 nits brightness. LTE adds Satellite SOS for emergency alerts even without cellular service when you have a clear sky. Core health and activity tracking returns: Heart Rate, ECG, SpO2, GPS, accelerometer, gyroscope, barometer, temperature sensor, pedometer, and more, plus Gemini voice control. With strong battery life and a premium design, this is a standout Android smartwatch deal for the season.

Intel planning a custom Panther Lake Core G3 for handheld gaming PCs

January 7, 2026, 1:56 AM EST. Intel is pursuing a dedicated handheld gaming platform powered by its new Panther Lake CPUs, aiming to boost Intel-based handhelds in a crowded market. Reports suggest an Intel Core G3 variant tailored for handhelds that could outperform the Arc B390 GPU on the same chips, aided by the 18A process that allows die slicing to optimize GPU performance. Concrete hardware and software details are sparse, with Intel saying more news is coming from partners later this year. The move puts Intel in a race with Qualcomm's Windows handheld previews at GDC and AMD's Strix Halo chips. The MSI Claw gained momentum after Lunar Lake, and the industry will watch whether the new platform sustains that trend. Expect handsets that blend PC-style gaming with compact form factors.

Motorola Debuts Foldable Flagship and AI-Unified Ecosystem at Lenovo Tech World 2026

January 7, 2026, 1:46 AM EST. At Lenovo Tech World 2026 in Las Vegas, Motorola stole the spotlight alongside Lenovo with a sweep of exciting reveals. The duo showcased their latest AI roadmap and new business partnerships while introducing two showstopping flagship devices, including Motorola's first foldable smartphone. The lineup also includes a new ultra-premium mobile franchise, a special edition FIFA Razr, and AI that unifies the Motorola and Lenovo ecosystems. The event promises stronger cross-brand collaboration across hardware and software, with expanded support for F1 partnerships and ongoing FIFA initiatives. Read the full recap to explore each announcement, from device debuts to software integrations that push the Motorola-Lenovo ecosystem forward on a global stage.

Apple Faces Rising Memory Costs in 2026 as Supply Chain Tightens

January 7, 2026, 1:36 AM EST. Apple faces rising DRAM and NAND costs as Morgan Stanley notes tighter supply and higher input costs into early 2026. Memory-price pressure could prompt price hikes or margin compression, with iPhone storage and Mac memory configurations among the first affected. Apple can absorb some pressure through operational levers and its scale, but flat retail pricing risks pushing more of the cost to customers. Foundry costs are rising at next-generation nodes, though Apple benefits from favorable terms with suppliers and TSMC. The company may offset via die-size efficiency, product mix, and upgrade pricing, yet memory and storage upgrades at checkout could become more expensive if negotiations fail. Overall, broader component inflation could help explain why Apple keeps prices steadier than rivals, at least initially.

The Inevitable Rise of Art TVs: Frame-Style Displays Redefine Small-Space Living

January 7, 2026, 1:34 AM EST. From Samsung's Frame TV to Amazon's Ember Artline, a wave of frame-style displays is turning televisions into living-room art. The appeal hinges on matte, anti-glare screens and subtle art modes that render paintings in standby rather than a blank glow. As living spaces shrink, brands push to fit large screens into smaller rooms without sacrificing aesthetics. Advances in matte LED technology and smarter backlighting enable more accurate art reproduction, while services offer curated collections-like Amazon's 2,000 artworks and Alexa AI help with room-optimizing choices. CES 2026 showcased even more entrants (Hisense, TCL, LG), signaling a trend toward Art TVs as both design statement and entertainment technology.

Motorola launches motorola signature: ultrathin design, four 50MP cameras, DXOMARK Gold Label

January 7, 2026, 1:30 AM EST. Motorola unveils the motorola signature, the centerpiece of a new ultra-premium series. The ultrathin handset-6.99mm-with an aircraft-grade aluminum frame and luxe twill-inspired or linen-inspired finishes, is offered in Pantone Martini Olive and Pantone Carbon. It earns the DXOMARK Gold Label for imaging excellence and is the first in its category with four 50MP cameras delivering varied perspectives. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Mobile Platform, it supports next-gen AI performance. The phone also features the largest battery in its class, delivering up to 52 hours of battery life. Motorola adds exclusive experiences, including white-glove assistance and up to seven years of Android OS and security upgrades. A bold blend of design and performance from Motorola.

Is the Google Play settlement email real? What to know about the $630M payout

January 7, 2026, 1:28 AM EST. US Google Play users are receiving official settlement emails tied to a $630 million antitrust case. The notice says eligible buyers who spent on apps or in-app purchases on Google Play between Aug 16, 2016 and Sept 30, 2023 may receive an automatic payout via PayPal or Venmo after final court approval. No action is required if you qualify; the payout amount depends on spend relative to others. A separate claims process will open later for those without access to the linked account. Objections or opt-outs are due by Feb 19, 2026. The emails come with court authorization from the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, and the notice links to official settlement pages-watch for scams, but the process itself is legitimate.

Why Nvidia Is the One Stock to Bet on the AI Boom in 2026

January 7, 2026, 1:16 AM EST. AI is fueling a multiyear rally, with the market set to grow from hundreds of billions to trillions as demand for AI infrastructure climbs. The next phase hinges on powerful AI chips and expanding data centers. Nvidia (NVDA) is the leading designer of the world's most capable chips, well positioned as cloud service providers scale to handle rising AI workloads. If you could own only one stock to play the AI boom in 2026, Nvidia offers exposure to chip design, software ecosystems, and data centers demand that could drive long-term gains as adoption accelerates toward the decade's end.

Infosys and AWS Collaborate to Accelerate Enterprise Adoption of Generative AI

January 7, 2026, 1:12 AM EST. Infosys teams with AWS to scale generative AI across industries by integrating Infosys Topaz with Amazon Q Developer, boosting internal operations from software development to HR and vendor management. The collaboration aims to automate documentation, code generation, debugging, and legacy modernization in the SDLC, while delivering industry solutions with AWS generative AI services like Bedrock for real-time, personalized experiences in sports, entertainment, and beyond. The partnership leverages Infosys Topaz as an AI-first platform and positions Infosys and AWS to drive operational agility, faster project timelines, and differentiated client value. Executives Sandeep Dutta and Bali emphasize a joint AI-first ecosystem that reshapes enterprise value.

Apple executives camp out in South Korea to secure memory chips as AI demand drives RAM shortage

January 7, 2026, 1:02 AM EST. Apple executives are camping near South Korea's memory fabs to secure long-term supplies as demand from AI accelerators pushes RAM prices higher. The reports say Apple's purchasing teams have taken semi-permanent rooms in Hwaseong, within reach of Samsung and SK Hynix to negotiate two- to three-year contracts for LPDDR5X RAM for upcoming iPhone models. RAM costs have surged-up to ~230-300% since early 2025-and a 12GB module now runs around $70. Other tech giants like Dell, Google, and Amazon are also staging extended stays, fueling a local hospitality boom. The memory makers reportedly favor quarterly deals, with scarcity potentially shaping iPhone pricing or RAM configurations in future models.

Tesla Loses Cybercab Trademark as USPTO Suspends Application Over Likelihood of Confusion

January 7, 2026, 1:00 AM EST. Tesla's bid to trademark its driverless-taxi concept, the Cybercab, hit a snag as the USPTO formally suspended the mark on November 14, 2025, citing a likelihood of confusion and competition from Unibev, a French beverage company that filed first. Elon Musk unveiled the prototype at the We, Robot event on October 10, 2024, but the company waited to file until November, leaving room for another applicant to jump in. This branding setback comes as Tesla's Robotaxi branding has faced earlier hurdles, including a USPTO rejection of the term as merely descriptive. Ongoing negotiations between Tesla and Unibev could lead to a settlement or a change in branding if no agreement is reached.

Tesla's Two-Year Sales Decline Conflicts With Musk's 2M/yr Claim

January 7, 2026, 12:56 AM EST. Tesla reported 1.63 million deliveries in 2025, placing it second behind BYD in EVs, but marking a decline from its previous leadership. The two-year sales drop persists even as the overall EV market grows. Weak performance in Europe accompanies refreshed models like the Model 3 Highland and Model Y Juniper, which failed to reclaim the crown. The Cybertruck ramp remains slow after a late-2023 kickoff. Amid a rising market, Musk's tweet claiming ~2M cars/year and rising contrasts with reality: peak output was about 1.85 million in 2023 and roughly 1.65 million in 2025, with the tilde masking a sizable decline.

NVIDIA Expands Global DRIVE Hyperion Ecosystem at CES to Accelerate Autonomous Driving

January 7, 2026, 12:48 AM EST. At CES in Las Vegas, NVIDIA announced a broadened DRIVE Hyperion ecosystem designed to accelerate autonomous driving by pairing the platform with more suppliers and partners. The expansion adds tier-1 suppliers, automotive integrators and sensor providers such as Aeva, AUMOVIO, Astemo, Arbe and Bosch to create a more capable, end-to-end development and testing stack for autonomous vehicles. The move aims to streamline hardware and software integration across perception, sensing, and compute, helping automakers reach full autonomy faster. NVIDIA's DRIVE Hyperion ecosystem now spans hardware reference platforms, software stacks, and validated partnerships to support automated driving from development to deployment. Read more on the blog.

Lenovo Unveils Hybrid AI Era: Personal, Perceptive, and Proactive AI Across Devices at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 12:46 AM EST. In Las Vegas, Lenovo unveiled a bold Hybrid AI roadmap featuring Lenovo and Motorola Qira as a personal AI super agent across PCs, smartphones, tablets, and wearables. The lineup includes AI-native devices, next-gen ThinkSystem/ThinkEdge inferencing servers, and the expanded Lenovo Hybrid AI Advantage with Agentic AI Services. New form factors-ThinkPad Rollable XD, Legion Pro Rollable, and AI Perceptive Companion-showcase agentic-native wearables and a personal AI hub. The company also teased a Lenovo AI Cloud Gigafactory with NVIDIA to accelerate production of enterprise AI workloads. Partnerships span sports and entertainment, including FIFA World Cup 26, with special edition devices. Lenovo positions AI as personal, perceptive, proactive, and ubiquitous, orchestrating actions across ecosystems to boost productivity, creativity, and connection.

Roborock's Saros 20 series gets a climbing upgrade for tougher thresholds and thicker carpets

January 7, 2026, 12:44 AM EST. Roborock's new Saros 20 and Saros 20 Sonic upgrade the AdaptiLift Chassis 3.0, letting the robots climb thresholds up to 3.3 inches and handle double-layer steps of 1.7 and 1.57 inches. A dynamic height system also increases carpet cleaning on pile up to 1.2 inches and helps free the bots if they get stuck. The Saros 20 Sonic adds an improved VibraRise 5.0 sonic mop that reaches baseboards, with customizable water flow and vibration in Roborock's app. Both models launch later this year with pricing TBA. CES 2026 introduced the updated flagship vacuums designed for tougher layouts and deeper carpet care.

Razer unveils AI-powered gaming headset Project Motoko at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 12:42 AM EST. Razer is turning heads at CES 2026 with Project Motoko, a concept gaming headset that doubles as a wireless AI wearable. Beyond stereo sound and voice chat, Motoko promises real-time AI features by working with major systems like Gemini and OpenAI. The headset includes front-facing cameras to recognize objects and text on the fly, enabling real-time translation and on-device document scanning, all while staying in the form factor of a headset rather than glasses. If this concept ships, it could blur the line between gaming hardware and AR-like AI, offering hands-free AI-powered capabilities without sacrificing comfort or portability.

Motorola Razr Fold: Book-Style Foldable with 50MP Triple Camera and AI Features, Launching This Summer

January 7, 2026, 12:40 AM EST. Motorola unveils the Razr Fold, a book-style foldable launching this summer, featuring a triple 50MP camera system: a 50MP primary (Sony Lytia), a 50MP ultrawide (with macro), and a 50MP 3x tele. The camera module adds noticeable bulk to the back. On software, Motorola teases AI-infused features with flexible layouts, adaptive interfaces, and multitasking enhancements. A new AI experience called Qira will span Motorola and Lenovo devices, remembering context to act across apps. Existing features like Catch Me Up and Pay Attention persist, with Qira powered by tech from Microsoft and Perplexity. Pricing is not disclosed; foldables in the $2,000 range are common, with more specs due as summer approaches.

Tesla Defines FSD Speed Profiles, Sets Default to Sloth; Model Y Interior Upgrades in China

January 7, 2026, 12:30 AM EST. Tesla's updated Owner's Manual for update 2025.44 reveals a default FSD speed profile shift: new vehicles and first-time FSD users now start in Sloth mode, which keeps the car under the speed limit. Previously, the default was Standard; with FSD v14, Chill and Standard can exceed the limit. The manual also defines all speed profiles: Sloth (under the limit), Chill (slower lanes, minimal lane changes), Standard (normal speed, flow with traffic), Hurry (faster, more lane changes), and Mad Max (faster still, more aggressive lane changes). Tesla says the change helps new drivers build trust and may ease regulatory concerns with NHTSA. The profile persists after re-enable. Separately, Tesla quietly upgraded the Model Y interior in China across all variants, standardizing parts previously reserved for higher-end models.

Li-Fi Lights the Way: Wireless Data via Light Aims to Solve Wi-Fi Woes at CES

January 7, 2026, 12:28 AM EST. Li-Fi is wireless data using light instead of radio waves, delivering data rates up to a gigabit per second while keeping line-of-sight privacy. At CES, pureLiFi demoed a compact Li-Fi module you can attach to a phone – LEDs and receivers in a slim package, potentially built into devices without dedicated apps. The Li-Fi system shares the Wi-Fi lineage, with 802.11bb compatibility, making adoption feel familiar. Bridge XC, a window-mounted unit, pipes data through glass and even powers the outside unit, enabling 5G home reception without interior cabling. The indoor Cube Mini acts as an access point for Li-Fi-enabled devices. Benefits highlighted include reduced radio interference and enhanced privacy in dense urban environments, though line-of-sight can limit nonstop coverage.

CES 2026: Motorola Razr Fold debuts as a productivity-focused book-style foldable

January 7, 2026, 12:26 AM EST. At CES 2026, Motorola moves away from nostalgia with the Razr Fold, a book-style foldable built for productivity. The phone sports a 6.6-inch external display that keeps one hand nimble, and an 8.1-inch 2K LTPO inner panel that unfolds for multitasking. Motorola leans into on-device AI with features like Catch Me Up and Next Move, designed to surface reminders, context, and actions without constant app switching. The features are tied together under Motorola's new Qira platform, a unified AI system that links Motorola and Lenovo devices. The Razr Fold aims to redefine foldables as workhorses rather than nostalgia toys, promising better multitasking, reminders, and seamless cross-device AI.

Aqara's FP400 Spatial Multi-Sensor Brings Private Presence Sensing to CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 12:18 AM EST. Aqara took CES 2026 by storm with a new line of presence-sensing devices designed to be privacy-first. The FP400 Spatial Multi-Sensor uses mmWave radar to quietly detect room occupancy, general positions of up to 10 people, and whether they're standing, sitting or lying down, without recording video. Its noninvasive approach also supports elder care with fall alerts and can learn habits over time to summarize how space is used. With Matter compatibility, the sensor can link to Apple Home, Google Home and Alexa to automate lights, thermostats, and routines. Aqara also rolled out the smaller P100 with 9-axis sensing for motion, vibrations, knocks, and door/window events. These sensors hint at a future where a single device covers many tasks through private presence sensing.

CES 2026: Samsung's creaseless OLED could unlock foldable iPhones

January 7, 2026, 12:16 AM EST. At CES 2026, chatter centers on Samsung Display's Advanced Crease-less OLED prototype that can unfold into a large, tablet-like expanse with barely visible folds. Seen alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 7, insiders say the upgrade is noticeable and could anchor future devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Wide Fold. Because Samsung Display partners with Apple, the panel may lay the groundwork for a coveted creaseless screen for an iPhone foldable, a project Apple has teased for later this year. If true, the display tech could accelerate modular foldables and reshape the trajectory of iPhone design and Samsung-Apple collaboration, per The Verge coverage.

CES 2026: Our Favorite Home Tech Gear Making Waves

January 7, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. CES 2026 is delivering home-tech breakthroughs that aim to simplify daily life. Highlights include Lockin's wireless smart locks-the V7 Max and Veno Pro-that run on AuraCharge optical wireless charging and reportedly never need recharging. LG unveils a ventless Signature washer-dryer that can complete a 10-pound load in under 90 minutes. LG's CLOiD becomes its first multitasking laundry-folding robot, capable of folding, unloading, and light cooking tasks, though speed is a work in progress. In lighting, Govee debuts the Sky Ceiling Light and the Ceiling Light Ultra, which can simulate a daytime sky and offer customizable patterns. More home-tech surprises are likely as CES continues.

CES 2026: Solid-State Batteries Arrive with Verge TS Pro EV

January 7, 2026, 12:08 AM EST. At CES 2026, the spotlight shines on solid-state batteries, which use a solid material to move ions, offering higher energy density, lower volatility, and cheaper production than traditional liquid electrolytes. Donut Labs has teamed with Verge Motorcycles to fit the new cells into the Verge TS Pro electric motorcycle. Transportation editor Antuan Goodwin notes that solid-state tech making it to the road is a big deal, with even bigger gains anticipated in larger cars due to weight savings and faster charging. This development underscores a broader push toward safer, more efficient EVs and could accelerate the rollout of higher-performance batteries across mobility sectors.

Nvidia debuts ICMSP to offload inference context and KV cache to NVMe SSDs at CES 2026

January 7, 2026, 12:02 AM EST. At CES 2026, Nvidia unveiled ICMSP, a platform that offloads GPU KV cache and inference context to NVMe SSDs, expanding persistent memory for long-context AI workloads. By integrating NVMe-resident KV cache into the context address space, ICMSP reduces recomputation and speeds multi-turn inference across GPUs, servers, and rack-scale systems. The approach relies on Rubin GPU cluster-level cache capacity and Nvidia's BlueField-4 DPU with up to 800 Gbps throughput, which handles hardware-accelerated cache placement and secure, isolated access. Nvidia's software stack – including DOCA, Dynamo KV cache offload engine, and its included NIXL – enables cross-node context sharing and scalable, low-latency AI inference for multi-agent workflows.

UK minister condemns Grok AI deepfakes; calls for tougher Online Safety Act enforcement

January 7, 2026, 12:00 AM EST. UK technology secretary Liz Kendall condemned a wave of Grok AI-generated undressed images of women and girls as appalling, urging X to act urgently and backing Ofcom to take enforcement action. She stressed that the Online Safety Act must be strengthened to curb online harms and protect children amid ongoing platform debates. Survivor Jessaline Caine highlighted lingering manipulation of images and called for stronger safeguards. Ofcom said it is aware of concerns and has contacted X and xAI to assess compliance, with potential investigations and penalties. Campaigner Beeban Kidron urged swifter action and more teeth in regulation, warning delays risk harm. Possible fines can reach up to £18m or 10% of global revenue, and new laws to ban nudification tools were promised last month.