Technology News 15.10.2025

Coastal Construction Leverages Togal.AI to Accelerate the Pendry Project in Tampa

October 15, 2025, 7:42 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying its own AI tool, Togal.AI, to measure, plan and design large projects such as the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa. By uploading blueprints and other design data, the system calculates wall areas, materials, and counts, speeding tasks that used to take weeks. Senior project engineer Nate Ripkey notes Togal.AI can label window types, provide sources, and answer questions via a ChatGPT-powered interface for materials or project specifics. The approach aims to cut pre-construction and planning time by about 20-25%, helping reduce costs and accelerate the build schedule across a project that includes a 38-story hotel and condo tower.

Tampa builder uses Togal.AI to speed pre-construction and cut costs

October 15, 2025, 7:40 AM EDT. Tampa-based Coastal Construction is deploying Togal.AI to measure, plan, and design major projects, including the Pendry Tampa. The AI platform reads blueprints, calculates wall center lines, perimeters, and areas, and supports Togal.CHAT questions about materials. By converting weeks of manual counting into near-instant data, the system aims to shrink pre-construction time and costs by a substantial margin. The move highlights how AI in construction can streamline estimations, improve planning accuracy, and accelerate decisions for a 38-story luxury hotel and residences project on Ashley Drive.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Up Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 7:38 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa is deploying AI from Togal.AI to speed up the pre-construction phase of major projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. The system uploads blueprints and automatically computes measurements, wall areas, net/gross areas, and material counts, replacing lengthy manual counting. It also offers a ChatGPT-powered Q&A to clarify questions about materials, windows, and storefronts. By reducing planning time and enabling rapid changes, the tool aims to cut pre-construction time and cost by about 20-25%, accelerating timelines for a project that blends luxury hotel, residences, and amenities.

Tampa project uses Togal.AI to speed planning and cut construction costs

October 15, 2025, 7:36 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI-an AI-powered tool designed to measure, plan, and design a major project. The Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive will rise 38 stories with hotel, condos, parking, and more. The system can ingest blueprints and automatically compute wall lines, area, and material counts, letting estimators move from weeks of manual work to near-instant results. It also includes Togal.CHAT, a ChatGPT-powered assistant for questions about materials or windows. Coastal says the tech can shorten pre-construction time by about 20-25% and reduce costs while improving accuracy and owner communication.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Up Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 7:34 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is using Togal.AI to speed up measurement, planning and design for major projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. The system lets teams upload blueprints, input measurements and material counts, and instantly generate quantities and cost estimates-reducing weeks of manual counting of doors, drywall, windows and more. With Togal.CHAT, engineers can ask questions about materials and project details and get precise answers, such as window types and labels. The goal is to compress pre-construction time and costs by roughly 20-25%, accelerating the timeline from planning to construction while preserving oversight.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Tampa Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 7:32 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is using Togal.AI to streamline measure, plan and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive. The AI reads blueprints, calculates wall center lines, perimeters, and areas, and can answer material questions via Togal.CHAT, reducing weeks of manual counting to near-instant results. Project engineer Nate Ripkey notes the system can identify 24 exterior storefront windows and provide labels and sources, streamlining change management. CIO Patrick Murphy says AI cuts pre-construction time and costs by about 20-25%, helping two-to-three-year planning timelines. The approach shows how AI-powered tools are reshaping construction project efficiency and cost control.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Up Pendry Tampa Project

October 15, 2025, 7:30 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI, an AI-powered platform, to measure, plan and design on major projects like Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. The system can upload blueprints, compute wall areas, materials counts and other details, and even answer questions about building components through Togal.CHAT. Officials say the tech can replace laborious manual counting and reduce pre-construction time by roughly 20-25%, potentially shortening planning phases that typically run two to three years. With Togal.AI, estimators can move from printed plans to instantaneous calculations of wall center lines, perimeters and areas, helping Coastal cut costs while keeping owners informed.

Tampa Builder Coastal Construction Deploys Togal.AI to Speed Pre-Construction on Pendry Tampa

October 15, 2025, 7:28 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa is using Togal.AI to speed measurement, planning and design on major projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. The AI reads blueprints, counts materials, and calculates wall center line, wall perimeter, and areas, letting estimators replace weeks of manual counting with instant data. The platform's Togal.CHAT lets teams ask questions about materials or details like window types, with labeled results and source links. Coastal says this AI-driven pre-construction work can cut time and costs by roughly 20-25%, helping teams shorten the planning phase within a multi-year construction timeline. The project showcases AI's role in construction analytics rather than replacing human labor.

Tampa Project Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Construction Planning

October 15, 2025, 7:26 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is adopting AI tech from Togal.AI to speed up estimating, planning and design for major projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. By uploading blueprints and detailed plans, the system calculates wall center lines, perimeters, areas, and other material needs, reducing weeks of manual counting to near-instant insights. The platform's ChatGPT-powered tool also answers questions about materials and window types, helping crews collaborate more efficiently. Company leaders say this AI approach cuts pre-construction time and costs by about 20-25%, while preserving essential oversight for a multi-year build.

Tampa Construction Firm Deploys Togal.AI to Accelerate Projects and Cut Costs

October 15, 2025, 7:24 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa is using Togal.AI to streamline measuring, planning, and design for the Pendry Tampa project. The system reads blueprints, counts installations, and outputs metrics like wall perimeter, area, and material lists, enabling near-instant pre-construction updates. With Togal.CHAT, a ChatGPT-powered feature, estimators can ask material questions and receive labeled, sourced answers, reducing hours of manual counting. The approach aims to compress pre-construction time and drive cost savings while maintaining human oversight. The downtown project-Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa-illustrates how AI and digital tools are transforming construction workflows in major developments.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Up Tampa's Pendry Tampa Project

October 15, 2025, 7:22 AM EDT. Coastal Construction is using Togal.AI to speed up planning and cut costs on the Pendry Tampa project in downtown Tampa. The platform lets engineers upload blueprints, count materials, and compute wall areas, centers, and perimeters-replacing slow manual estimations with precise data. Through Togal.CHAT, teams can ask questions about materials or specs and get quick answers. The 38-story Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa, on Ashley Drive, began construction in late 2023. CIO Patrick Murphy says the system compresses pre-construction time and reduces costs by about 20-25%, helping designers and builders adjust plans more rapidly rather than wading through paper plans.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Up Tampa Project Planning

October 15, 2025, 7:20 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying its own AI tool, Togal.AI, to speed up measuring, planning and design for major projects, including the Pendry Tampa tower on Ashley Drive. Founded by Patrick Murphy, Togal.AI lets teams upload blueprints and instantly compute wall lengths, areas and material counts, replacing tedious manual estimates that used to take weeks. The system can also power Togal.CHAT, answering questions about materials and specifics like window types, with references. The result is a shorter pre-construction phase-Murphy says pre-construction can account for about 20-25% of a project's time and cost-and overall faster project delivery. This showcases how construction tech and AI are reshaping planning for large downtown developments.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Prep for Pendry Tampa Project

October 15, 2025, 7:18 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa Bay is deploying Togal.AI, an AI-powered construction tool, to measure, plan and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. The 38-story project will mix residential, hotel, parking, retail and dining. Togal.AI lets users upload blueprints-reading wall center lines, areas and counts-to quickly generate quantities and costs. Togal.CHAT, a version of the tool, can answer questions about materials, like window types, with labeled options and sourcing links. The company says the system can cut pre-construction time and costs by about 20-25%, reducing tedious manual planning. Murphy founded Togal.AI to streamline estimators' work and deliver faster project planning for large-scale developments in the construction industry.

Tampa Pendry project uses Togal.AI to speed construction planning

October 15, 2025, 7:16 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying AI technology from Togal.AI to streamline measurement, planning and design for major projects, including Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa. By uploading floor plans and blueprints, the system calculates wall center lines, perimeters, areas, and material counts, turning what used to take weeks into near-instant insights. The tool also features Togal.CHAT, a ChatGPT-powered assistant that answers questions about materials and building details, such as window types. The company says the approach can cut pre-construction time and costs by about 20-25%, helping crews move from planning to construction more quickly. The Pendry project on Ashley Drive remains a central example of this AI-enabled workflow in a high-rise development.

Coastal Construction Deploys Togal.AI to Accelerate Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 7:14 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is adopting its AI-driven platform Togal.AI to speed up measurement, planning and design for major projects, including Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. Founded by Patrick Murphy, Togal.AI reads blueprints and plans to calculate wall center lines, perimeters and areas, then generates quantities and cost estimates. The system also powers Togal.CHAT, enabling project teams to query building materials or specifics. By replacing manual counting of doors, drywall, windows, and other details, the tool can dramatically cut pre-construction time and costs-reductions of around 20-25%. Uploads of detailed plans allow faster communication and real-time plan adjustments.

Tampa's Pendry project leverages Togal.AI to cut pre-construction time and costs

October 15, 2025, 7:12 AM EDT. Coastal Construction is using Togal.AI to accelerate measurements, planning, and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive. By uploading blueprints, the AI reads floor plans to deliver wall metrics, areas, and material counts, and Togal.CHAT can answer questions about windows and materials. Estimators previously counting doors and drywall can now get near-instant results, slashing pre-construction time and cost. Officials say the technology can reduce pre-construction time and cost by about 20-25%, speeding the path from plans to buildable work. This showcases how AI in construction is transforming complex downtown developments in Tampa.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Tampa Project Planning for Pendry Tampa

October 15, 2025, 7:10 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is using AI technology from Togal.AI to speed up measurements, planning and design on large projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. Founded by Patrick Murphy, Togal.AI lets users upload blueprints and instantly compute wall center lines, perimeters, areas, and material counts. The system can read plans, count doors, drywall, baseboards and windows, and even answer material-related questions via Togal.CHAT, a ChatGPT-powered tool. The approach is designed to cut pre-construction time and costs-Murphy says it can compress pre-construction time by roughly 20-25% of a typical job. The technology supports faster changes and clearer communication with on-site teams.

Coastal Construction Deploys Togal.AI to Accelerate Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 7:08 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI, an industry-specific AI tool, to accelerate measurements, planning, and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive. The system can upload blueprints, compute wall metrics (center lines, perimeters, areas), and identify storefront window types, delivering instant, data-driven estimates. With Togal.CHAT, teams can ask questions about materials or project specifics, reducing manual review. The goal is to shorten pre-construction time and cut costs-roughly a 20-25% impact-while translating plans into precise build instructions. The 38-story luxury hotel and condo tower, which broke ground in late 2023, illustrates how AI is changing workflows in major urban construction.

Tampa construction uses Togal.AI to speed planning and cut costs on Pendry Tampa

October 15, 2025, 7:04 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI, an AI-powered tool, to measure, plan, and design large projects like the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa. The CIO Patrick Murphy founded Togal.AI to streamline pre-construction by letting teams upload blueprints and receive detailed metrics such as wall center lines, perimeters, and areas. The system can read plans, count materials, and generate pricing, reducing what used to take weeks to a matter of minutes. Coastal workers can also query Togal.CHAT for materials and project specifics, e.g., window types, with labeled results and source links. The goal is to compress pre-construction time and lower costs-Murphy estimates a 20-25% decrease. The Pendry project on Ashley Drive is a 38-story mixed-use tower that broke ground in late 2023.

Coastal Construction uses Togal.AI to accelerate Tampa Pendry project

October 15, 2025, 7:02 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI to measure, plan and design components of its Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive. The tool lets crews upload blueprints and automatically compute wall center lines, perimeters, areas and material counts, replacing weeks of manual counting with near-instant results. The system's ChatGPT-powered capability (Togal.CHAT) helps answer questions about window types and other on-site details, improving communication between estimators and field teams. The approach aims to shorten pre-construction time-traditionally a major portion of a project's cost and schedule-while keeping human oversight in place for final decisions.

Coastal Construction Deploys Togal.AI to Speed Up Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 7:00 AM EDT. In Tampa Bay, a construction firm, Coastal Construction, is using Togal.AI to speed up measurements, planning and design on major projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa. The system lets teams upload blueprints and automatically computes wall center lines, perimeters and areas, reducing manual counting and weeks of pre-construction work. It also offers Togal.CHAT to answer questions about materials and project specifics, making it easier to identify window types and other details. The goal is to cut pre-construction time and costs, while preserving accuracy and collaboration across the project team.

Tampa Construction Firm Uses Togal.AI to Speed Up Pre-Construction and Cut Costs on Pendry Tampa Project

October 15, 2025, 6:58 AM EDT. Coastal Construction is leveraging Togal.AI, a ChatGPT-powered construction AI, to measure, plan, and design the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project in downtown Tampa. By uploading blueprints and floor plans, the system reads plans and outputs wall center lines, areas, and material counts, enabling near-instant estimates instead of weeks of manual counting. Project engineers note that the tool can identify window types, storefronts, and other details, with links to source data. The goal is to compress pre-construction time and reduce costs by about 20-25%, while still relying on human oversight for decisions. The 38-story project will include hotel, residences, parking, retail, and dining.

Tampa Construction Firm Deploys Togal.AI to Streamline Pendry Tampa Project

October 15, 2025, 6:56 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is using Togal.AI, an AI tool, to measure, plan, and design major projects such as Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa. Founded by Patrick Murphy, Togal.AI reads blueprints to compute wall center lines, perimeters, areas, and material counts, enabling near-instant estimations and reducing pre-construction time by an estimated 20-25%. The system supports Togal.CHAT for questions about materials and project specifics, and lets teams update plans without flipping through paper drawings. This technology aims to streamline multi-year projects (two to four years), including the 38-story luxury hotel and condominium tower on Ashley Drive.

Tampa project goes AI-first: Coastal Construction uses Togal.AI for faster pre-construction

October 15, 2025, 6:54 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is using Togal.AI to accelerate measurement, planning and design on its largest projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa. By uploading blueprints, the system reads floor plans to produce detailed metrics-wall center lines, perimeters, areas-and identify components such as doors and windows. The AI-powered tool also offers Togal.CHAT, a ChatGPT-powered feature that answers questions about materials and project specifics, reducing the need for manual lookups. Executives say these capabilities can cut weeks, if not months, from pre-construction by streamlining takeoffs and pricing. The Pendry Tampa project, a 38-story mix of luxury hotel, residential space, and amenities, serves as a showcase for how AI-driven tooling is being integrated into the construction workflow to trim costs and timelines.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Pre-Construction for Pendry Tampa Project

October 15, 2025, 6:52 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa is adopting Togal.AI, the AI tool created by its CIO Patrick Murphy, to measure, plan and design major projects like the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. The system can upload blueprints, read floor plans, and output precise metrics such as wall center lines, perimeters and areas, enabling near-instant estimates. Builders can also query Togal.CHAT for material types and other project details, with answers that include labeled window types and references. The aim is to compress pre-construction time by roughly 20-25%, reducing costs while preserving rigor, and still relying on human oversight for the actual construction.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 6:50 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI, an AI-powered construction tool, to measure, plan, and design components of major projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. By uploading blueprints, measurements and materials counts, Togal.AI can compute wall center lines, perimeters and areas, and even answer questions about materials via Togal.CHAT, a ChatGPT-powered feature. The system aims to cut pre-construction and planning time-and costs-by roughly 20-25%, turning weeks of manual work into near-instant insights. The 38-story luxury hotel and condo tower broke ground in late 2023. Coastal Construction's CIO Patrick Murphy and Senior Project Engineer Nate Ripkey discuss how AI can streamline estimator tasks and communications with on-site teams.

Tampa project uses Togal.AI to speed planning and cut costs for Pendry Tampa

October 15, 2025, 6:48 AM EDT. Coastal Construction is deploying Togal.AI to measure, plan and design major projects in downtown Tampa, including Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa. The system can upload blueprints and instantly compute wall center line, wall perimeter, wall area, gross area and net area while identifying door and window types. In addition to measurement and design, the AI-powered tool can answer material questions and link to source labels, reducing the need to flip through plans. Estimators previously counting doors, drywall, baseboards and sockets can now rely on the technology to shorten pre-construction time by roughly 20-25% of a typical job, potentially cutting costs and accelerating scheduling for these multi-year projects.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 6:46 AM EDT. Coastal Construction is using its AI tool Togal.AI to speed up measuring, planning and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive. The system reads blueprints or floor plans, counts doors, windows and materials, and outputs wall center lines, areas and other quantities to forecast costs. It also powers Togal.CHAT, a ChatGPT-based assistant that answers material questions and helps with selections. By uploading plans, tasks that used to take weeks can be completed quickly, reducing pre-construction time and costs by an estimated 20-25%. The effort aims to streamline coordination across design, permitting and construction.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 6:44 AM EDT. Coastal Construction is leveraging Togal.AI, an AI-powered platform, to tackle measurement, planning, and design for the Pendry Tampa project. The tool can read blueprints, calculate wall area and material counts, and identify windows and doors, enabling faster estimates with less manual work. Project engineers can use Togal.CHAT to query materials and specs, cutting pre-construction time and costs. The Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa are a 38-story hotel and condo tower on Ashley Drive; the AI approach aims to streamline the process from blueprint to build, accelerating timelines while reducing labor and maintaining accuracy.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Up Tampa Projects and Cut Costs

October 15, 2025, 6:42 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI to speed up measurement, planning and design for large projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. The AI platform can read blueprints, count materials, and generate detailed metrics (wall center lines, areas, window counts) to produce price estimates faster than traditional methods. Togal.CHAT lets teams ask questions about materials or specs, streamlining decision making. Operators say the system can cut pre-construction time and costs by a significant margin, with two- to three-year planning cycles transitioning toward faster execution. Patrick Murphy, Coastal Construction's CIO, founded Togal.AI to serve construction, aiming to shorten planning and improve accuracy for complex builds in downtown Tampa.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Tampa Project Planning

October 15, 2025, 6:40 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is adopting Togal.AI to speed up estimates, planning and design on major projects like the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa. The system lets teams upload blueprints and automatically compute wall measurements, material counts and area metrics, replacing hours of manual counting. Togal.CHAT also lets project staff query materials and specifications in real time, such as window types and storefronts, with references to sources. The CIO Patrick Murphy notes the tech can shorten pre-construction time by about 20-25% of project costs, enabling faster decisions and fewer bottlenecks. By digitizing plan review and measurement, Coastal aims to cut construction planning time and costs on multi-year builds.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Pre-Construction for Pendry Tampa Project

October 15, 2025, 6:38 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is using Togal.AI to speed measurement, planning and design for a major project. The firm uploads blueprints to Togal.AI, which analyzes plans to calculate wall center lines, perimeters, and areas, and even powers Togal.CHAT to answer questions about materials. This replaces weeks of manual counting-doors, drywall, windows, and more-with near-instant data. The system helps support the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive, a 38-story luxury hotel and condo tower that broke ground in late 2023. CFO Patrick Murphy notes the tool can compress pre-construction time and costs by about 20-25%. By streamlining measurements and planning, Coastal Construction aims to reduce tedious tasks and accelerate construction timelines, while still relying on human expertise where needed.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Up Tampa Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 6:36 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI to accelerate planning and reduce costs on the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project, a 38-story luxury tower on Ashley Drive. The system lets teams upload blueprints and automatically computes wall lengths, areas, materials, and quantities, replacing weeks of manual counting. With Togal.CHAT, project staff can query about materials and window types, getting specific labels and sources. The goal, according to CIO Patrick Murphy, is to trim pre-construction time by about 20-25% and shorten overall planning, enabling faster project timelines for a project that runs roughly two to four years in construction.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 6:34 AM EDT. Coastal Construction is applying AI technology from Togal.AI to speed up measurement, planning and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive. By uploading blueprints, the system calculates wall lengths, areas and material quantities, and even labels window types, reducing weeks of manual counting and planning. The Togal.CHAT feature lets on-site teams ask questions about materials and project specifics, further streamlining decisions. The CIO Patrick Murphy says the approach can cut pre-construction time and costs by roughly 20-25% of a typical job. The project's 38-story luxury hotel and condo tower-featuring residential space, hotel, parking, retail and dining-benefits from more accurate estimates and faster planning, potentially shortening timelines for this major downtown development.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 6:32 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI, an AI-driven tool to measure, plan and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive. The 38-story luxury tower will include residential space, hotel, parking, retail and dining. Patrick Murphy, Coastal's CIO and Togal.AI founder, says the system can ingest blueprints and counts to compute quantities, wall metrics and areas, delivering detailed estimates fast. The platform's Togal.CHAT lets teams query about materials and openings, with labeled results and source links. The technology reduces tedious pre-construction tasks and cutting planning time and cost by an estimated 20-25%, accelerating progress from planning to construction on a project that began in late 2023.

Coastal Construction Deploys Togal.AI to Speed Up Tampa Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 6:30 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is using Togal.AI to accelerate measuring, planning and design on major projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. The system lets teams upload blueprints and automatically computes wall center lines, perimeters and areas (gross/net) and even handles material counts for pricing. Its Togal.CHAT feature answers questions about materials and specifications, for example detailing window types. By replacing hours of manual counting of doors, drywall and baseboards, the tech can shorten pre-construction time and cut costs. Founder Patrick Murphy says the goal is faster pre-construction, not to eliminate human roles.

Tampa construction firm uses Togal.AI to streamline Pendry Tampa project

October 15, 2025, 6:28 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying AI technology from Togal.AI to speed up measurement, planning, and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project. The 38-story development on Ashley Drive is using Togal.AI to read blueprints, count materials, and provide detailed metrics like wall area and storefront window types, reducing weeks of manual work to near-instant results. With Togal.CHAT, project teams can ask questions about materials and assembly, getting labeled components and sources. CIO Patrick Murphy notes the system can compress pre-construction time by about 20-25% of cost and duration, though it does not replace human estimators. The project has been underway since late 2023 and aims to cut planning time for large-scale builds.

Tampa Construction Firm Leverages Togal.AI to Accelerate Planning and Cut Costs

October 15, 2025, 6:26 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa Bay is deploying Togal.AI to measure, plan and design major projects like the Pendry Tampa. The AI platform reads blueprints, counts materials, and computes wall areas, volumes and other metrics, letting estimators replace weeks of manual counting with instant insights. The system even answers questions about materials and window types via a ChatGPT-powered interface, reducing pre-construction time by an estimated 20-25%. This use case highlights how AI is reshaping construction workflows and project delivery in downtown Tampa.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Tampa's Pendry Tampa Project

October 15, 2025, 6:24 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is speeding up major projects and trimming costs by using Togal.AI, an AI tool built for the construction industry. The firm feeds blueprints, measurements and material counts into Togal.AI and receives detailed quantities, wall metrics and planning data in seconds, reducing typical pre-construction time by about 20-25%. The Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive, a 38-story hotel-and-condo tower, are among the projects benefiting. Senior engineer Nate Ripkey notes the system can identify window types, store label references, and answer material questions via Togal.CHAT, helping estimators avoid manual plan reviews while maintaining accuracy. This approach aims to cut time and costs across planning-to-build phases without replacing human oversight.

Coastal Construction uses Togal.AI to speed up pre-construction for Pendry Tampa project

October 15, 2025, 6:22 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa is using Togal.AI to speed up measurement, planning and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive. The 38-story luxury hotel and condo tower broke ground in late 2023. Togal.AI founder Patrick Murphy explains the system lets teams upload blueprints and automatically compute wall center lines, perimeters and areas, replacing weeks of manual counting of doors, drywall and windows. The platform's Togal.CHAT lets estimators ask questions about materials or specs, with results and links to sources. By streamlining pre-construction, Murphy says the technology can cut planning time and costs by about 20-25%, while still preserving expert oversight.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Pre-Construction on Pendry Tampa Project

October 15, 2025, 6:20 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa is using its own AI tool, Togal.AI, to speed up measurement, planning, and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive. Chief Investment Officer Patrick Murphy says the system can read blueprints, calculate wall areas, materials counts, and even identify window types, dramatically reducing the time spent on pre-construction tasks. The technology includes Togal.CHAT, a ChatGPT-powered feature that answers questions about materials and building specifics. The goal is to cut pre-construction time and costs by roughly 20-25%, accelerating timelines for a 38-story luxury hotel and residential tower. This showcases how AI is helping developers and contractors streamline complex projects in downtown Tampa.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 6:18 AM EDT. Coastal Construction is deploying an in-house AI tool, Togal.AI, to speed up measurements, planning and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive. By uploading blueprints and material counts, the system automatically calculates wall area, center lines and other metrics, helping estimators produce estimates faster. The platform's ChatGPT-powered assistant answers questions about materials, such as window types, with labeled results and source links. By replacing manual blueprint counting with digital analysis, the project aims to cut pre-construction time and costs, with estimates of a 20-25% reduction. Officials say this approach lets the team adjust designs and communicate requirements more efficiently, potentially accelerating the timeline for this 38-story luxury tower.

Tampa Construction Firm Adopts Togal.AI to Accelerate Planning and Cut Costs

October 15, 2025, 6:16 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa is using Togal.AI to measure, plan and design major projects, including the Pendry Tampa development. The system lets teams upload blueprints, reads measurements, calculates wall areas and materials, and even answers questions about building components through Togal.CHAT, a ChatGPT-powered feature. This approach replaces weeks of manual counting of doors, drywall, and windows with near real-time data, speeding pre-construction and improving accuracy. CIO Patrick Murphy says the technology can cut pre-construction time and costs by roughly 20-25%, improving efficiency and collaboration on large projects like Ashley Drive.

Tampa Construction Firm Uses AI Tool Togal.AI to Speed Up Projects and Cut Costs

October 15, 2025, 6:14 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying AI technology from Togal.AI to speed up measurement, planning, and design on major projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. The system lets teams upload blueprints and automatically outputs wall lines, areas, and material counts, while its Togal.CHAT feature answers questions about materials and project specifics. This approach turns tasks that used to take weeks into near-instant updates, cutting pre-construction time and costs by an estimated 20-25%. CEO Patrick Murphy says the goal is to compress pre-construction and planning time while preserving accuracy, reducing repetitive counting of doors, drywall, windows, and other components through automated data extraction.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Pre-Construction on Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 6:12 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI to measure, plan, and design for major projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive. The 38-story luxury hotel and condo tower will span residential, hotel, parking, retail and dining space. Founder Patrick Murphy says Togal.AI can read uploaded blueprints or detailed plans and compute wall center lines, perimeters, areas and more, while a senior project engineer notes it can identify window types and labels via Togal.CHAT. The system also lets teams update plans without flipping through paper, speeding tasks that would take weeks and cutting pre-construction time and costs-roughly 20-25% in some cases-without replacing essential human expertise.

Tampa Builder Uses Togal.AI to Speed Up Pre-Construction on Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 6:10 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa is deploying Togal.AI to streamline measurement, planning and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project. The system uploads blueprints and derives wall lines, areas and material quantities, while Togal.CHAT, a ChatGPT-powered tool, answers questions about materials and specs. Estimators previously counted doors, drywall and windows by hand; now details are produced almost instantly, reducing pre-construction time and costs by roughly 20-25%. The tech supports faster collaboration across teams, with on-screen plan changes and live material data, helping Coastal tighten schedules and budgets on the Ashley Drive project.

Tampa Pendry project uses Togal.AI to speed planning and cut costs

October 15, 2025, 6:08 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa Bay is deploying Togal.AI to measure, plan, and design major projects, including Pendry Tampa on Ashley Drive. CIO Patrick Murphy founded Togal.AI to automate counting doors, drywall, windows, and other blueprint items, turning weeks of manual work into near-instant results. The system can upload plans and deliver detailed metrics-wall center line, wall perimeter, wall area, and gross/net areas-and even run Togal.CHAT to answer questions about materials. By streamlining pre-construction tasks, the technology aims to trim the pre-construction phase and cut costs; Murphy says it can compress planning time by around 20-25%. The Pendry project, a 38-story luxury hotel and condo tower, illustrates how AI tools are reshaping collaboration between designers, builders, and owners in large downtown developments.

Tampa Construction Firm Adopts Togal.AI to Speed Up Pre-Construction and Cut Costs

October 15, 2025, 6:06 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI to streamline measuring, planning, and design for major projects, including the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa. By uploading blueprints, measurements, and material counts, the AI can calculate wall center lines, perimeters, areas, and quantities, helping estimators price work faster. The tool also offers Togal.CHAT to answer questions about materials and project specifics, such as window types. This approach aims to cut pre-construction time and cost, reducing weeks of manual work. Project leaders say the system reads plans, relays requirements to crews, and speeds decision-making-while human oversight remains essential for complex builds.

Tampa Pendry project uses Togal.AI to speed pre-construction

October 15, 2025, 6:04 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in Tampa Bay is deploying Togal.AI, an AI-driven tool, to measure, plan and price a major Pendry Tampa project on Ashley Drive. CIO Patrick Murphy founded Togal.AI to automate counting doors, windows, drywall and other materials from blueprints, dramatically reducing manual pre-construction time. Engineers can upload floor plans and get wall center lines, perimeters, and areas, while Togal.CHAT answers questions about materials and window types. The Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa will be a 38-story luxury complex with residential, hotel, parking, retail and dining. Officials say the AI system can compress pre-construction time by roughly 20-25% of project cost and time, accelerating planning ahead of construction.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Speed Up Tampa's Pendry Project

October 15, 2025, 6:02 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI to speed up measurement, planning and design on the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa project on Ashley Drive. The 38-story luxury hotel and condo tower broke ground in late 2023. Founder Patrick Murphy explains that by uploading blueprints and design data, the system can compute needs and generate precise metrics like wall center line, wall perimeter, wall area, gross area and net area. The platform also hosts Togal.CHAT to answer questions about materials, such as window types, helping avoid manual counting of doors, drywall and fixtures. This approach aims to compress pre-construction time and reduce costs, turning weeks of work into near-instant insights while keeping human oversight where needed.

Coastal Construction Deploys Togal.AI to Speed Up Pendry Tampa Project

October 15, 2025, 6:00 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is using Togal.AI, founded by Patrick Murphy, to accelerate pre-construction by uploading blueprints and letting the tool measure wall areas, counts of doors and windows, and materials, then generate quantities and cost estimates. The system's Togal.CHAT lets project teams ask questions about materials or details, replacing weeks of manual counting with near-instant data. The approach supports projects like Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa on Ashley Drive, aiming to cut pre-construction time and costs by about 20-25%. This illustrates how AI is reshaping construction workflows for multi-use developments.

Coastal Construction Uses Togal.AI to Accelerate Pre-Construction on Pendry Tampa Project

October 15, 2025, 5:58 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is using Togal.AI, an AI tool, to speed up measurements, planning and design for the Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa projects on Ashley Drive. By uploading blueprints and detailed plans, the system reads floor plans and provides wall center lines, perimeters and areas, reducing manual counting of doors, drywall, windows and other components. The platform also offers Togal.CHAT, a ChatGPT-powered feature that answers questions about materials and project specifics. Officials say this pre-construction workflow can cut planning time and costs by about 20-25%, accelerating the transition from planning to construction. The 38-story luxury tower will include residential space, hotel, parking, retail and dining.

Coastal Construction uses Togal.AI to speed planning and cut costs on Tampa's Pendry project

October 15, 2025, 5:56 AM EDT. Coastal Construction in the Tampa Bay area is deploying Togal.AI, an AI-powered tool, to speed measurement, planning and design for major projects such as Pendry Tampa and Pendry Residences Tampa. The system lets teams upload blueprints and input measurements and materials so it can calculate wall center lines, perimeters, areas and other quantities, then generate estimates for owners. Togal.CHAT further allows asking questions about materials and specifications. By replacing manual counting of doors, drywall, windows and baseboards, the technology aims to cut pre-construction time and costs by roughly 20-25%. The Ashley Drive project is a 38-story luxury tower; if successful, it could shorten planning cycles for similar developments.

BCE Inc. Stock Rebounds After 56% Dividend Cut and Bold Turnaround Plan

October 15, 2025, 5:55 AM EDT. BCE Inc. shares cooled after a dramatic dividend cut but rebounded as Bell unveiled a bold three-year plan focused on fiber expansion, wireless growth, and AI-driven services. The 56% dividend cut to C$1.75 creates a ~5.3% yield and aims to bolster cash flow and reduce debt. Management targets roughly C$1.5 billion in cost savings by 2028 and an annualized capital intensity of about 14% of revenue, freeing cash for reinvestment. The move comes amid competitive pressure from Telus and Rogers. Analysts are divided, with some seeing upside as BCE resets toward growth, while others warn the payout won't be raised soon. The stock trades around the low-mid C$30s, with a consensus Hold and targets near C$35.

Fitbit Versa 4 on sale for $134: affordable smartwatch deal you shouldn't miss

October 15, 2025, 5:54 AM EDT. Looking for an affordable smartwatch? The Fitbit Versa 4 is on sale for $134 at Walmart, about $66 off its regular $200 price. It covers the basics with 24/7 heart rate, GPS, sleep tracking, and 40+ exercise modes, plus the mature Fitbit app. The watch measures 40.5mm with a color touchscreen and durable aluminum frame. It's water-resistant up to 50m and supports on-wrist Bluetooth calls, Alexa, Google Wallet, and Maps. Expect up to six days of battery life (GPS off); with continuous GPS, around 12 hours. Includes a free six-month premium membership for personalized insights. Colors: Black, Pink Sand, Waterfall Blue. Deals like this beat Amazon's pricing today and make the Versa 4 a compelling value in 2025.

HMD Touch 4G blends hotspot and phone in a budget, compact hybrid

October 15, 2025, 5:52 AM EDT. HMD Global's Touch 4G is a $48 hybrid that blends a mobile hotspot with a basic phone. Its 3.2-inch display recalls early smartphones, while a UNISOC T127 chip with 64MB RAM and 128MB storage (expandable to 32GB) runs RTOS Touch with many smart features via HMD's Cloud Phone platform. The standout is the built-in 4G hotspot that doubles as a portable Wi-Fi and communication device for areas with limited smartphone affordability. Calls, video chats, and messages go through Express Chat across Android and iOS. Yet the device's cloud dependency raises long-term concerns: discontinue cloud services and core functions could falter. The 0.3MP front and 2MP rear cameras, a 1950mAh battery, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS Beidou, and IP52 splash resistance reflect a budget-minded design for markets like India seeking affordable entry to connectivity.

Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold explodes during JerryRigEverything durability test

October 15, 2025, 5:51 AM EDT. Tech YouTuber JerryRigEverything's durability test of Google's Pixel 10 Pro Fold ended in disaster when the foldable failed under stress and its battery shorted, causing a fire. In the video, the device snapped along the same antenna line near the hinge-an issue he says has plagued Pixel Fold generations-and the hinge allegedly accumulated debris, failing the IP68 dust-resistance claim. The test concluded with the phone smoking and, reportedly, a rare explosion in his decade of testing. He criticized Google for repeating the same vulnerable hinge placement across generations, calling the Pixel 10 Pro Fold the weakest folding smartphone he's tested.

OpenAI to allow erotic content for verified adults as it relaxes ChatGPT restrictions

October 15, 2025, 5:50 AM EDT. OpenAI announced a plan to relax ChatGPT restrictions, allowing erotic content for verified adults under a 'treat adult users like adults' principle. The update will let users customize their assistant's personality-more human-like responses, heavy emoji use, and friend-like behavior. A December rollout will add age-gating that would permit adult erotic content, though details on verification and safeguards remain unclear. The company already operates an under-18 experience with automatic redirection and is developing behavior-based age-prediction tech to estimate whether a user is over 18. Sam Altman said tighter safety controls had made ChatGPT less useful for some, arguing new safety tools enable easing restrictions while addressing mental health risks. Regulators, including the FTC, are scrutinizing AI's impact on youth.

SpaceX Forms Starbase Volunteer Fire Department, Tightening Emergency Response at Brownsville Site

October 15, 2025, 5:49 AM EDT. SpaceX is quietly forming the Starbase Volunteer Fire Department, a nonprofit with headquarters at 1 Rocket Road in Brownsville, to systematize emergency response at its launch-and-manufacturing Starbase complex. The certificate names two SpaceX employees as directors and a SpaceX attorney as signer, and the group says it will aid, promote and provide for the establishment of systems and facilities for public safety education, and fire prevention and suppression services. Historically, SpaceX handled fires with an internal team and help from local departments; it's unclear how the new department will interact with Cameron County's 911 system or other agencies, and it's not regulated by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. The move comes as Starbase formally incorporated as a city and gains more local authority.

How AI Is Changing Online Marketing for Small Businesses

October 15, 2025, 5:48 AM EDT. AI has the potential to level the playing field for small businesses by automating marketing, speeding lead generation, and trimming costs. The piece notes that AI tools mirror large enterprises, leveraging cloud-based, no-code platforms to boost efficiency across ops, marketing, and accounting. For many SMBs, Google Ads remains the core channel, but bidding complexity and targeting can erode ROI. Adrian Aidid argues that Google's ecosystem moat-built on Gmail, YouTube, Chrome, and Search-gives Alphabet a durable advantage, making AI-driven shifts uncertain. Still, tools such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and Google's Gemini are promising for copywriting, ad creation, funnels, and landing pages. As AI matures, SMBs may accelerate growth from seed to Series rounds by automating processes and sharpening advertising, sales, and financial workflows.

Windows 10 support ends: what you need to know and your upgrade options

October 15, 2025, 5:47 AM EDT. Microsoft has ended automatic security updates and end of support for Windows 10, impacting millions of PCs. If your device can run Windows 11, upgrade to stay secure, as Windows 10 will not auto-update. For older machines that can't upgrade, options exist: about $30 for one year of extended security updates (business pricing is higher). A free Microsoft option is available but requires connecting OneDrive and enabling cloud backup; beware free storage limits, which may force paid storage anyway. If upgrading isn't feasible, you may switch to a different OS, such as Chrome Flex or Linux Mint, noting some programs may be incompatible. You can install yourself or seek a repair shop. Visit Microsoft.com for details.

Inside NVIDIA's org chart: 36 leaders reporting to CEO Jensen Huang at the world's most valuable tech company

October 15, 2025, 5:45 AM EDT. An in-depth look at how NVIDIA's leadership is structured, revealing the 36 leaders who report directly to CEO Jensen Huang. The org chart highlights how NVIDIA blends hardware prowess with software and platform ambitions to power AI, GPU, and data-center growth. From gaming to enterprise and research, the piece explains how strategic leadership decisions steer product roadmaps, partnerships, and execution at the world's most valuable tech company.

Amazon's Project Kuiper reaches 153 satellites after latest 24-satellite launch

October 15, 2025, 5:44 AM EDT. Amazon's Project Kuiper added 24 more low-Earth-orbit satellites, bringing its fleet to 153 as it advances toward service in early 2026. The Falcon 9 launch from Cape Canaveral was the sixth Kuiper flight and the third with SpaceX, following earlier missions with ULA. Amazon says the network could total about 3,200 satellites and is on track to offer internet in the United States in 2026, aligning with BEAD program goals. The company emphasizes ongoing partnerships and milestones, noting that deployment beyond 578 satellites would further unlock BEAD timelines. This latest flight underscores Amazon's ambition in low-Earth-orbit broadband and the growing role of private-space partnerships in expanding internet coverage.

Apple Releases Third iOS 26.1 Public Beta With Automatic Security Improvements and Local Capture

October 15, 2025, 5:43 AM EDT. Apple released the third public beta of iOS 26.1, adding practical features like automatic Security Improvements, a configurable Remove & Restart, and a new Local Capture setup. In the beta, devices can download and install Security Improvements automatically, with the option to uninstall via Remove & Restart if issues arise. Apple compares this to Rapid Security Responses (RSR), though RSR hasn't seen updates since iOS 16.5.1. The update also introduces a dedicated Local Capture settings page to choose a save location and toggle audio-only recording during calls, plus the ability to add Local Capture to Control Center. A new Accessibility option lets users prefer single-tap actions over sliding actions. Note this is beta software, so test on non-primary devices and expect potential bugs and battery impact.

AI-Generated Content Reaches 52% of New Articles, Study Finds

October 15, 2025, 5:42 AM EDT. New data from Graphite, highlighted by Axios, suggests that AI-generated content now accounts for about 52% of newly published English-language articles. The 65,000-article sample used the Surfer detector to classify pieces with 50%+ AI writing as AI-generated. The trend rose from roughly 10% in 2022 to over 40% by 2024, then plateaued toward a near 50/50 split by 2025. Researchers caution detectors aren't perfect: misclassifying human content, and some AI-written pieces slipping through. Blocking Common Crawl by paywalled sites may undercount human articles. Why the plateau? Some content farms may be evading crawlers, while writers increasingly use AI tools without triggering the detector.

Stocks Volatile on China, Powell; Walmart Leads New Buys

October 15, 2025, 5:41 AM EDT. Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq futures were mixed after the close as traders weigh U.S.-China tensions and Powell comments that boost rate-cut expectations. The broader market rally remained volatile, with small caps climbing to a record breadth while Nvidia slid back below a buy point. The session highlighted diverging tech signals: some AI names remain buoyant on strength, while others pull back as investors rotate toward more defensive plays. Walmart emerged as a leader in new buys, underscoring continued interest in retail and consumer stocks amid a shifting macro backdrop. Market participants will watch for guidance on policy outlook and additional earnings in coming sessions.

Washtenaw Community College Opens EV and Battery Lab to Drive Mobility Tech Innovation

October 15, 2025, 5:40 AM EDT. Washtenaw Community College has unveiled a new EV and battery lab to give students hands-on experience diagnosing, servicing, and working on modern electric vehicles. The facility aims to meet growing industry demand for mobility technology and to cultivate talent for the sector. Dr. Brandon Tucker, WCC's Director of Instruction, says the lab reflects feedback from industry partners who emphasize that EVs and hybrids are happening now, not in the future. The initiative could be boosted by the Washtenaw Intermediate School District's CTE millage, which may help younger students acquire skills and be well-prepared for college programs in this field.

Accenture CEO Julie Sweet on AI adoption, upskilling, and responsible AI

October 15, 2025, 5:39 AM EDT. Julie Sweet explains how clients are weaving AI into their operations, noting that AI is easy to try but hard to scale. Accenture helps with the shift by reimagining how work is done and by building an upskilling agenda (via LearnVantage) and a talent rotation to manage the transformation. She emphasizes training that keeps pace with changing technology and leadership that blends technical fluency with change management. On trust and responsible AI, she says trust is foundational and that responsible AI must be embedded in every engagement to enable scaling. A practical example is a product that automatically retrains all AI to align with updated compliance policies across the enterprise, ensuring consistency between policies, humans, and agents.

Google and World Bank Partner on AI-Powered Public Infrastructure in Emerging Markets

October 15, 2025, 5:38 AM EDT. Google and the World Bank are partnering to deploy AI-powered public digital infrastructure in emerging markets, combining Google Cloud's capabilities with the World Bank's development expertise. The plan centers on interoperable networks, enabling citizens to access services in more than 40 languages via Open Network Stacks and touchpoints in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and skilling. A pro bono pilot in Uttar Pradesh helped smallholder farmers boost profitability. Separately, AI agents are being developed to extract insights from research to help allocate trillions in aid and investments. Google.org notes over $200 million in AI for social good funding in five years, and its AI Collaboratives initiative now targets Wildfires and Food Security to scale societal impact.

Intel bets on AI push with Crescent Island GPU and rack-scale design in turnaround strategy

October 15, 2025, 5:36 AM EDT. Intel is introducing a new data-center GPU called Crescent Island and a rack-scale reference design based on its Goudy 3 PCIe-based systems. This aligns with the company's broader turnaround as it pushes deeper into AI workloads and aims to grow beyond the client PC space, complementing its foundry efforts. The design resembles Nvidia/AMD rack concepts: modular, plug-in parts that can slot into servers or even regular PCs. While it may not create the same hype as rivals, the move signals progress in Intel's strategy to diversify into AI and scale its data-center offerings. Taken with ongoing foundry work, it marks the early innings of a turnaround in Intel's tech trajectory.

Apple's Vision Pro May Spur Smart Glasses With visionOS, Tied to iPhone or MacBook

October 15, 2025, 5:35 AM EDT. Apple may turn the Vision Pro into a smarter pair of smart glasses. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says visionOS will run on glasses, with two modes: a lightweight on-the-go mode when paired with an iPhone, and a more capable MacBook-connected mode for compute-heavy tasks. The move could position Apple against Meta's Ray-Ban Display and even offer a laptop-like experience in a glasses form factor. The UI would likely leverage hand and eye tracking for spatial computing, though the exact input method remains uncertain. If accurate, the glasses would extend visionOS beyond the Vision Pro, highlighting Apple's strategy to monetize its software ecosystem via lighter hardware and new use cases like entertainment and gaming.

Apple's Week of Launches: M5 MacBook Pro, Apple TV 4K, HomePod mini 2 and More Rumored Arrivals

October 15, 2025, 5:33 AM EDT. Apple is gearing up for a week of launches, with several rumored arrivals teased by executives. The centerpiece appears to be the M5 MacBook Pro-likely arriving in a refreshed blue, while M5 Pro and M5 Max models are reportedly delayed to 2026. A new Apple TV 4K is expected, packing an A17 Pro chip, Apple Intelligence, and an N1 wireless chip, with a possible Center Stage camera. The HomePod mini 2 should join the lineup, powered by Apple Intelligence and the N1 chip, plus audio upgrades. The M5 iPad Pro is rumored as a spec bump with the M5 chip, N1, higher RAM (12GB/16GB). Finally, AirTag 2 could bring an Ultra Wideband upgrade and stronger privacy, while Vision Pro remains on the horizon.

DJI Appeals DoD Chinese Military Company Designation; Court Upholds Partial Findings

October 15, 2025, 5:32 AM EDT. DJI has appealed a U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ruling on the Department of Defense's designation of DJI as a Chinese Military Company. The district court upheld the designation but rejected most of the DoD's allegations. The court maintained only two non-arbitrary findings: DJI's NETC status and that DJI products have substantial dual-use applications-neither implying Chinese military affiliation. DJI asserts it operates independently with no government or military ties and continues to defend the integrity of its technology. The company notes it has implemented measures to prevent misuse of its drones and denounced combat use. The appeal signals ongoing legal contention over tech policy, security, and foreign designation.

Oracle bets on AMD GPUs as a potential Nvidia challenger

October 15, 2025, 5:30 AM EDT. Oracle is betting big on AMD by planning to deploy 50,000 of its AI GPUs starting next year, a move that further positions AMD as a potential Nvidia alternative. The segment recalls AMD's prior deal with OpenAI, which involved thousands of GPUs and equity options. Dan Howley notes that powering hundreds of thousands of homes with a gigawatt helps illustrate the scale of these deployments. While the 50,000 GPUs for Oracle underscores AMD's growing traction in the AI market, Nvidia still dominates with broad partnerships (OpenAI, Microsoft, Google, Meta, XAI) and a deep ecosystem. The upshot: AMD is gaining ground, but Nvidia isn't ceding leadership yet.

SpaceX's Starship Version 3: What's Next After Flight 11 Success

October 15, 2025, 5:29 AM EDT. SpaceX wrapped up Flight 11 of Starship, a milestone for the world's largest rocket, as both the Super Heavy booster and Ship returned to Earth. The flight also featured Ship relighting an engine in space and deploying dummy payloads. SpaceX says the upcoming Starship Version 3 (V3) will be taller and include a full propulsion and systems overhaul, including the move to Raptor 3 engines, redesigned fuel transfer plumbing, larger energy storage, and extensive avionics upgrades. V3 aims to enable longer missions, in-space propellant transfers between ships, and an integrated hot stage for rapid reuse. New docking adapters will enable fuel transfer between Starships in orbit for deeper space missions.

Cheap gear lets researchers intercept sensitive data from geostationary satellites, study finds

October 15, 2025, 5:28 AM EDT. Researchers from the University of Maryland and UC San Diego demonstrate that with cheap, commercially available equipment, they could passively scan 39 geostationary (GEO) satellites and intercept unencrypted data from the U.S. military, telecoms, and major businesses. The study reveals that many organizations treat satellites as internal links, with IPSec encryption not widely adopted on private networks. Across seven months and 25 longitudinal points, the researchers show that satellite communications backhaul and in-flight Wi-Fi can leak information if end-to-end security isn't universal. The findings underscore the need for stronger encryption standards and robust security practices for satellite networks and their backhaul connections.

K2 Space Targets Trinity Mission: Three-Orbit Satellite Deployment on Falcon 9

October 15, 2025, 5:27 AM EDT. K2 Space unveiled the Trinity mission to deploy three satellites via a SpaceX Falcon 9 rideshare, operating across LEO, MEO, and GEO. The company frames Trinity as a blueprint for agile, scalable multi-orbit satellite operations, and plans Gravitas, its in-house 20 kW electric propulsion demonstrator, to perform orbit-raising from LEO to MEO. Both missions will support U.S. government and commercial partners, with SES already partnering to test a software-defined payload on Pathfinder missions in 2026-27.

Skip the smartwatch: iHealth Track BP Monitor tracks 99 metrics on Amazon

October 15, 2025, 5:26 AM EDT. Don't need a pricey smartwatch to monitor your health. The iHealth Track Smart Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor is trending on Amazon, priced around $35 with a 30% discount. It syncs with a free smartphone app, delivers color-coded readings, and sends real-time alerts, even sharing data with your doctor. Reviewers praise its accuracy and ease of use, including seniors. Clinically validated and listed on the U.S. Blood Pressure Validated Device Registry, it offers long-term trend reports to track heart health over weeks, months, or years. Beyond blood pressure, it tracks 99 health metrics and presents results on a backlit display with a one-touch design. A simple, affordable alternative to a smartwatch for staying informed about your health from home.

OpenAI to Ease Restrictions, Allow Erotica for Verified Adults Amid Policy Debates

October 15, 2025, 5:24 AM EDT. OpenAI plans to ease ChatGPT content restrictions in coming months, allowing erotica for verified adults and introducing age verification. CEO Sam Altman signaled more human-like responses, emojis, and a conversational tone, while OpenAI revisits mental health guardrails. The shift comes as Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed Assembly Bill 1064, which would have tightened minors' access to AI tools, arguing that banning use won't prepare youth for a future with ubiquitous AI. In December, OpenAI plans to roll out adult-content prompts for verified users and nudge toward more personalized chats, with broader product updates on the horizon. The policy move highlights the tension between safety safeguards and expanding the AI-driven software economy.

Apple teases powerful MacBook Pro, fueling M5 chip rumors

October 15, 2025, 5:23 AM EDT. Apple teases a 'something powerful' in a new X post from marketing VP Greg Joswiak, showing the side profile of a blue MacBook Pro. The hints sharpen speculation about an M5-powered lineup, with the MacBook Pro in a V shape-an implicit nod to the Roman numeral five. Joswiak's 'Mmmmm' caption adds another clue toward the M5 chip. No official specs beyond 'coming soon' are shared, but rumors from Bloomberg point to multiple new products: an M5 MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Vision Pro, with the base model first and higher-end M5 Pro/Max variants arriving early next year. Readers are asked what they'll upgrade from and to. FTC disclaimer included.

Google Gemini powers Help Me Schedule in Gmail to streamline meeting invites

October 15, 2025, 5:22 AM EDT. Google's Gemini AI is bringing a new Gmail feature called Help Me Schedule. As you type, Gmail recognizes when you are planning a meeting and shows a Help Me Schedule button to launch an AI-powered widget. The AI suggests possible times that fit the email context and are available in your calendar, generating an inline meeting widget for the recipient to choose. The initial release will not support group invites. Google says Gemini is expanding across products, including the nano banana image model and the Veo video model, with Gemini features also appearing in Photos, YouTube, and Google Home for AI-assisted notifications and activity summaries.

Apple Eyes Latest Buy Point Amid Market Volatility

October 15, 2025, 5:21 AM EDT. During a volatile session, Apple (AAPL) and peers such as Alnylam (ALNY), Hims & Hers Health (HIMS), and Zscaler (ZS) were among the best names to watch as the Dow Jones Industrial Average and other indexes traded mixed. With benchmarks pulling back from record highs, investors are advised to patiently await new breakouts using the IBD Methodology. The report highlights disciplined entry timing and risk management as tech stocks navigate volatility and seek the latest buy points.

Yes, We're in an AI Bubble – No, It Doesn't Feel That Way

October 15, 2025, 5:20 AM EDT. Despite headlines about an AI bubble, investor enthusiasm and company valuations are not in a single, uniform collapse. The reality is more nuanced: persistent demand for AI tools across industries, disciplined capital allocation, and ongoing breakthroughs keep funding flowing even as hype subsides. The so-called bubble reflects a surge in speculation, valuation, and exuberance, but also real progress in machine learning, automation, and product-market fit. In practice, some segments are overheated while others are solving tangible problems with enterprise-grade solutions, open-source ecosystems, and robust go-to-market strategies. The takeaway: stay focused on fundamentals, differentiate between short-term excitement and long-term value, and watch how policy, regulation, and risk management shape the next phase of AI adoption.

AI Job Cuts Reach New Heights in September as Tech Layoffs Surge

October 15, 2025, 5:19 AM EDT. AI-driven layoffs are accelerating, with Challenger, Gray & Christmas reporting about 7,000 AI-related job cuts in September and more than 20,000 roles affected by broader tech advances. This surge follows roughly 10,000 AI-related layoffs in the first seven months of 2025. The takeaway: bolster your career now by using AI at work to become a superworker and by starting a proactive job search. Keep personal finances in order and watch for common red flags that signal a coming layoff. If you're laid off, Forbes contributors offer practical steps to reclaim control of your career, and you can tune in to expert discussions on how to AI-proof your path. Stay informed and prepared.

SpaceX's Starship Version 3: Bigger, Bolder, and Aiming for Orbit

October 15, 2025, 5:18 AM EDT. SpaceX has retired Version 2 of Starship after its latest test on Monday, Oct. 13, at Starbase in Texas, paving the way for the next-generation Version 3. The upcoming vessel could stand about 408 feet tall when fully stacked, with a larger upper stage and significant internal changes aimed at higher performance. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and company officials have teased the new design as a path to orbit, with potential missions to the Moon and Mars. The version 3 concept would work with multiple Super Heavy boosters and is central to NASA's Artemis program, which envisions Starship ferrying astronauts from an Orion capsule to the lunar surface as early as 2027. Production of V3 vehicles is already underway at SpaceX's Starbase facility in Texas.

Amazon Deals: iPhone Chargers 3-Pack, Shark Vacuum, LEGO Sets on Sale

October 15, 2025, 5:17 AM EDT. Amazon's top deals include: iPhone MFi Certified 3-pack charging cords for $6.99 (53% off); Shark MessMaster Portable Wet/Dry Vacuum for $79.99 (47% off); LEGO sets from $5.19 (DreamZzz and City lines). Other discounts cover Apple AirTag 4-pack, a compact umbrella, and more. See all deals on Amazon.com.

DJI appeals Pentagon blacklist ruling over Section 1260H list

October 15, 2025, 5:15 AM EDT. DJI, the Shenzhen-based drone maker that dominates the US commercial drone market, has appealed a federal court ruling that it should remain on the Pentagon's blacklist of firms allegedly linked to China's military. The appeal was filed with the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit after DJI argued it is not owned or controlled by the Chinese military and does not contribute to China's defence industrial base. First added to the Section 1260H list in 2022, the designation signals heightened scrutiny for US entities, though it does not immediately ban business. DJI says the decision stigmatizes it as a national security threat and has cost it deals with multiple US federal agencies.

Apple AirTags 4-Pack on Sale for $65: Easy Tracking with Find My Network

October 15, 2025, 5:14 AM EDT. Amazon is offering a four-pack of Apple AirTags for $65, a strong deal for Apple's location-tracking tags. AirTags leverage the Find My network to locate items even when far from your iPhone, and setup is as easy as tapping the tag to your iPhone. The four-pack is compact enough for a keychain or purse, and you can share with up to five family members for collaborative tracking. Apple emphasizes privacy with alerts if an unlinked AirTag is near you, plus periodic beeps when not near any Find My devices. Note the caveat: AirTags work with iPhone (not Android), but still offer reliable tracking at a low price per tag.

Walmart Teams Up with OpenAI to Bring ChatGPT-Powered Shopping and Instant Checkout

October 15, 2025, 5:13 AM EDT. Walmart is partnering with OpenAI to let shoppers use ChatGPT to browse and pay in online shopping, expanding the company's Sparky AI assistant with Instant Checkout. The rollout aims to make ecommerce more personalized, contextual, and multi-media. Shoppers and Sam's Club members can chat to plan meals, restock essentials, or discover new items, with the chatbot surfacing relevant products and enabling a one-tap Buy flow that can use saved payment details. Etsy and Shopify are listed as initial merchants for single-item purchases, with multi-item carts coming later. Walmart describes the move as a key step in AI-enabled shopping that could simplify everyday purchases while raising questions about reliability and privacy.

Best Budget Smartwatches 2025: Huawei, Xiaomi, Samsung & Apple

October 15, 2025, 5:12 AM EDT. Discover the best budget smartwatches of 2025, with top picks under £250/$250. From Huawei and Xiaomi to Samsung and Apple, these wearables deliver notifications, fitness tracking, and even mobile payments without the premium price. The Huawei Watch Fit 4 is highlighted as the Best Overall, offering an elegant design, healthy feature set, and solid battery life. Some models compromise on certain staple smartwatch features, but they offer strong value and everyday performance. The guide directs readers to broader rundowns of the best smartwatches, plus guides to fitness trackers and smart rings. Expect price updates via the Best Prices Today section and clear pros/cons to help shoppers decide.

China targets online pessimism with two-month censorship drive

October 15, 2025, 5:11 AM EDT. China's Cyberspace Administration has launched a two-month campaign to curb online posts that excessively exaggerate negative and pessimistic sentiments, aiming to 'rectify negative emotions' and create a more civilised online environment. The effort targets narratives like 'studying is useless' and 'world-weariness', amid economic slowdown and youth unemployment. Officials say the move could reshape online discourse, as authorities have previously sanctioned influencers and platforms. Critics warn it risks suppressing legitimate discussion and deep social tensions, while supporters say it promotes a rational digital space. The campaign follows high-profile censors and a crackdown on so-called Android jokes during livestreams, highlighting how humor intersects with control in China's tech policy.

Afghanistan: Internet Restored After Taliban Blackout

October 15, 2025, 5:09 AM EDT. Afghan residents celebrated the return of the internet and telecom services after a Taliban-ordered blackout that disrupted flights, banking, and emergency services. NetBlocks documented a partial restoration, while BBC Afghan reported networks coming back online and Afghans streaming calls with relatives. Officials cited the restoration as a government decision, though the Taliban offered no formal explanation. The outage intensified fears over women's rights, economic instability, and isolation, echoing concerns voiced by the UN that Afghanistan was cut off from the world. As markets reopened and travel resumed, many cited the relief of daily life resuming, even as critics warned that such shutdowns threaten media freedom, humanitarian aid, and long-term development.

Enchem backs out of $152M electrolyte plant project in Brownsville, Tenn.

October 15, 2025, 5:08 AM EDT. South Korean battery-component maker Enchem America has withdrawn its plan for a $152.5 million electrolyte manufacturing facility in the I-40 Advantage Industrial Park in Brownsville, Haywood County. The project would have created about 190 jobs and been near BlueOval City-Ford and SK On's EV campus. Enchem cited a shift in demand from key North American customers as the primary reason for the mid-September withdrawal. The company had planned to receive incentives, including a $2 million recruitment grant in 2023, which are now being terminated while the site is re-marketed with the Tennessee Valley Authority and state support. The site has already undergone preliminary grading under the Select Tennessee Certified Sites program. Ford's BlueOval City production is delayed to 2028, but the EV market remains dynamic.

Samsung devices eligible for security updates (October 2025)

October 15, 2025, 5:06 AM EDT. As of October 2025, Samsung delivers monthly security updates to flagship and newer mid-range devices, with fixes sourced from Google and partners, plus Samsung-authored patches. Not all models receive updates every month; priority goes to recent flagships. Samsung also lists quarterly updates for a wide range of phones and tablets, including numerous Galaxy A, M, F, Tab series, and Z Fold/Flip devices, while a smaller group gets semi-annual updates. The complete list below shows devices meeting the cadence as of October 2025. In addition, Samsung updates wearables on roughly a quarterly cadence; currently eligible: Galaxy Watch8, Watch Ultra (2025/2024), Watch7, Watch6, Watch5, Watch4, and Watch FE.

Samsung Issues Emergency Galaxy Update as CISA Warns Federal Staff About WhatsApp Zero-Day

October 15, 2025, 5:05 AM EDT. Samsung issued an emergency update for all Galaxy phones after a new exploit, tracked as CVE-2025-21043, was found in the wild, enabling remote code execution via libimagecodec.quram.so in image parsing and affecting WhatsApp on Galaxy devices. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) warned federal staff to install the patch or discontinue using Galaxy phones by Oct. 23, highlighting the three-week gap between Samsung's and CISA's warnings. With billions of users and a broad attack surface, this marks another wave of mobile-focused vulnerabilities affecting Android and iPhone ecosystems. Samsung has released the October update following September fixes; however, no new critical fixes are listed. The situation underscores ongoing patching challenges and comparisons to Apple's new silent background update model, and Google's omni-update ambition.

5 Hidden iPhone Settings That Actually Improve How You Use Your Phone

October 15, 2025, 5:04 AM EDT. Discover five hidden iPhone settings you can enable in Settings to dramatically improve daily use. In Accessibility > Display & Text Size, turn on Reduce White Point to dim the screen beyond the minimum brightness. Turn on Sound Recognition in Accessibility to alert you to important sounds like doorbells or alarms, even with headphones. Use Back Tap (Settings > Accessibility > Touch) to trigger shortcuts with a double- or triple-tap on the back of your device. Enable direct timers from Control Center so you can stay in the app you're using. The piece highlights practical, built-in tools that transform how iPhone users interact with their device.

Google hosts Gemini Founders Forum for 53 AI startups in Mountain View

October 15, 2025, 5:02 AM EDT. Google, with DeepMind and Google Cloud, is hosting the first Google for Startups Gemini Founders Forum, a two-day in-person summit in Mountain View on November 11-12. The event brings 53 selected AI startups from nearly 1,000 applications to accelerate growth, tackle technical challenges, refine product strategies, and scale globally with Google's expertise. The cohort covers AI agents, GenAI-native platforms, healthcare AI, cybersecurity, legal tech, robotics, and more, spanning the U.S., UK, Israel, India, Portugal, Brazil, and Spain. Attendees will work with Google experts to leverage Gemini and the infrastructure of Google Cloud to advance their solutions, underscoring Google's commitment to supporting the next generation of builders.

Pixel Camera app 10.1 brings Material 3 Expressive UI to older Pixel phones

October 15, 2025, 5:01 AM EDT. Google is rolling out Pixel Camera app 10.1 to older Pixel models, adding the Material 3 Expressive redesign first seen with the Pixel 10. The update weighs in at about 1.47GB. Changes include a redesigned shutter button – now a solid circle with a transparent ring – and new button layouts tucked in rounded squircles. The image preview and dual-camera controls move from circular buttons to rounded squares, with a new animation for the preview and a left-right flip control. Fonts for zoom indicators are larger, and the app keeps the dirty lens warning to remind users to wipe the lens. The update also enables FPS auto-adjustment on Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 9 series. Pixel Camera 10.1 is live on the Google Play Store for supported devices.

Google AI Studio Rolls Out Rate Limit Dashboard Ahead of Gemini 3.0 and Veo-3.1

October 15, 2025, 5:00 AM EDT. Google AI Studio shifts focus from flashy model launches to practical developer tooling with a new rate limit dashboard. The tool offers real-time visibility into API quotas, request volumes, and usage patterns, helping engineers manage capacity in production. For enterprises, it translates to better resource planning and lower deployment risk as AI features scale. The update underscores the importance of infrastructure reliability alongside Gemini 3.0 and Veo-3.1 progress, suggesting Google aims to smooth adoption when those models ship. While not as glamorous as model breakthroughs, the dashboard lays a solid foundation for reliable AI deployments and fewer surprises during peak load.

Galaxy S25 series gets first post-One UI 8.0 update with October 2025 patch

October 15, 2025, 4:59 AM EDT. Samsung is rolling out the October 2025 security patch to international Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra variants, currently live in Thailand. This marks the first update for devices after the launch of One UI 8.0 (Android 16). The package weighs 561.43MB and carries firmware version S93xBXXS6BYIF. To install, go to Settings > Software update > Download and install. Samsung is expected to widen the rollout to other regions in the coming days. The next major update is One UI 8.5, which already leaked for the Galaxy S25 Ultra and promises visual changes and new features; it may debut with the Galaxy S26 lineup in February 2026.

Navitas Semiconductor spikes after unveiling Nvidia-ready data center power products

October 15, 2025, 4:58 AM EDT. Navitas Semiconductor jumps after unveiling purpose-built power products designed for Nvidia's forthcoming data center architecture, signaling stronger demand for Nvidia-friendly infrastructure. The move comes as tech stocks tied to AI data centers trade mixed, with investors weighing China-US tensions that dent supplier visibility. Names such as Arista Networks, Seagate, Western Digital and Dell faced early declines due to supply-chain exposure, while Nvidia and Broadcom were down after AMD announced a new deal to deploy its chips in Oracle data centers. The broader AI rally remains fragile as the market assesses supply chains, manufacturing risks, and potential bandwidth of the new Nvidia platform.

Pokémon Legends Z-A Mega Starters Leaked: Mega Evolutions and Stats Revealed

October 15, 2025, 4:54 AM EDT. Leaked ahead of launch, the Pokémon Legends Z-A Mega Starters reveal their Mega Evolutions and stats. Mega Meganium sports a flower collar; Mega Emboar wears a crown-like mane and wields a fire spear; and Mega Feraligatr sports a red helmet. Datamined movesets show: Mega Meganium: HP 80, Atk 92, Def 115, Sp. Atk 143, Sp. Def 115, Speed 80; Mega Feraligatr: HP 85, Atk 160, Def 125, Sp. Atk 89, Sp. Def 93, Speed 78; Mega Emboar: HP 110, Atk 148, Def 75, Sp. Atk 110, Sp. Def 110, Speed 75. Early impressions vary on which starter is best, and with no gym system, type advantages remain uncertain.

Samsung Galaxy S25 and S24 Receive October Security Patch Ahead of One UI 8.5

October 15, 2025, 4:53 AM EDT. Samsung pushes the October security patch to the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S24, with CYJI (S24) and BYIF (S25) firmware around 455MB and 500MB. The update is live in Thailand and is expected to roll out to more regions soon, mainly delivering security fixes and minor optimizations after the stable One UI 8 release. Samsung's October bulletin is now available outlining patched vulnerabilities. Looking ahead, One UI 8.5 is in the works for the S25 and older flagships, rumored to bring major UI changes and be based on Android 16 QPR2, potentially kicking off a beta program before year's end with broader device support early next year.

How Apple Built the New Center Stage Front Camera on iPhone 17

October 15, 2025, 4:52 AM EDT. Apple's lineup now centers on the redesigned Center Stage front camera, built around a new square image sensor for the iPhone 17 family. In interviews with Jon McCormack and Megan Nash, Apple describes how the selfie camera enhances eye gaze, vertical holding, and social sharing across the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, and iPhone 17 Pro. With the global habit of taking about 500 billion selfies a year, the team designed the system to better frame self-portraits and group shots, including friends, landmarks, and video calls. The new Center Stage automatically expands its field of view to keep everyone centered, reducing the need for workarounds like selfie sticks or switching to the ultra-wide. Years in the making, it aims to make mobile photography more personal and social.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A Timeline Revealed – Five Years After X and Y

October 15, 2025, 4:51 AM EDT. The embargo is lifted on Pokémon Legends: Z-A, revealing a direct sequel that takes place just five years after Pokémon X and Y. Rather than time travel, Z-A continues in Kalos' Lumiose City, with familiar faces returning in new roles. We meet AZ, a 3,000-year-old figure, and Mable as the new Pokémon professor, guiding your challenges. Other characters from X and Y reappear in updated forms, underscoring a concrete link rather than a vague crossover. This explicit continuity is a rare treat for fans, contrasting with Legends: Arceus' time-warp storytelling. Stay tuned for my full review next week, plus notes on Nurse Joy's evolving role in Z-A.

NVIDIA DLSS 4 Multi-Frame Generation Expands to Pax Dei, Keeper, Fairlight84 and More

October 15, 2025, 4:50 AM EDT. DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation is expanding to a fresh batch of titles this month, with RTX 50 Series GPUs taking full advantage. Pax Dei (PC and Xbox Game Pass on Oct 16), Keeper from Double Fine (Oct 17, also on Game Pass), and Fairlight84 (Oct 16) all launch with DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation support. Last week brought Battlefield 6 and Little Nightmares III into the fold, and ARC Raiders will run DLSS 4 during its server slam ahead of its Oct 30 launch. The week also adds NBA2K26 with DLSS Super Resolution and a GeForce Rewards key for Borderlands 4. Looking ahead, The Outer Worlds 2 (Oct 29) and Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 (Oct 21) will ship with DLSS 4 support.

Fiber Internet and Rural Healthcare: Telehealth, Access, and Care Coordination

October 15, 2025, 4:48 AM EDT. Fiber internet is reshaping rural healthcare by enabling reliable telehealth, fast access to medical records, and real-time sharing of imaging and lab results. With high speeds and low latency, video visits with doctors and specialists become clearer and more consistent, reducing travel for seniors and mobility-impaired patients. Enhanced bandwidth supports patient portals, remote monitoring, and digital health tools, helping patients stay informed and receive timely treatment. For providers, fiber improves coordination across clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies, speeding diagnoses and emergency responses. In areas with few specialists, fiber bridges the gap by connecting patients to experts nationwide. The expansion of fiber networks-like Surf Internet's rollout in the Illinois Valley-could attract healthcare investment and bring better care closer to home.

Gemini 3 leaks: launch date rumored and 5 upgrades Google needs to beat ChatGPT

October 15, 2025, 4:47 AM EDT. A new leak suggests Google's next-gen Gemini, Gemini 3.0, could debut as soon as October 22, with the idea it must outpace ChatGPT. The article flags Gemini's 1.5/2.0/2.5 milestones and frames Gemini 3 as Google's best shot at becoming the everyday AI assistant. It outlines five upgrades Google must nail, focusing on: 1) memory that remembers ongoing tasks and past details, not just short term context; 2) response speed that balances rapid answers with deeper reasoning; 3) better grasp of user intent to avoid misinterpretation. If successful, Gemini 3 could feel more like a helpful assistant than a distant chatbot, edging closer to beating ChatGPT in daily use.

Internal RAW in Cameras: Hype or Essential for Your Workflow?

October 15, 2025, 4:46 AM EDT. Is internal RAW recording in cameras a real workflow game changer or hype? This CineD poll dives into why brands like Blackmagic, Panasonic, Canon, Nikon, SIGMA and RED offer internal RAW options. Since the Pocket Cinema Camera (2013) popularized cinemaDNG, filmmakers debate when internal RAW adds value: as a safety net for exposure and white balance, especially in lower-budget productions, or as unnecessary overhead for high-end crews. Proponents argue it preserves flexibility for color grading and post, while critics cite larger card needs and tougher processing. The author's view: internal RAW should be available on more cameras as a core feature, enabling flexible, higher-quality results for indie projects. How do you use internal RAW in your workflow-hype or essential tool?

Space42 and e& Partner to Deliver Satellite-to-Phone 5G NTN via Equatys in UAE

October 15, 2025, 4:45 AM EDT. Abu Dhabi's space tech firm Space42 and e& unveiled a plan to bring satellite internet directly to mobile devices through the Equatys venture with Viasat, announced at Gitex Global 2025 in Dubai. The project aims to extend 5G NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks) coverage beyond traditional towers, enabling standard smartphones and IoT devices to connect via satellites, especially in deserts, offshore, or mountainous regions. The collaboration follows disruptions to UAE internet and aligns with global efforts from operators like Starlink and AST SpaceMobile. Unlike siloed satellite networks, Equatys would operate as a shared satellite network for multiple operators, reducing costs and accelerating deployment. UAE-based leader e& expects the service to be operational by end-2028, strengthening its long-term network strategy and resilience.

The internet's obsession with the same AI prompts is backfiring

October 15, 2025, 4:44 AM EDT. A Kapwing study analyzing 4.9 million public prompts across Midjourney reveals that users repeatedly lean on famous artists, directors, franchises, and brands to steer generated images and videos. From Alphonse Mucha to Wes Anderson and McDonald's, these recurring references form recognizable aesthetics that help users skip long descriptions. The data highlight categories such as fine art, directors, cities, and franchises, with standout prompts like Star Wars, New York City, and Akira. But the downside is model collapse: over time outputs risk looking alike as AI systems train on each other's content. Creators spar with this trend-illustrators like Greg Rutkowski are cited in lawsuits over unpermitted style use-raising questions about originality and permission in AI-driven creativity.

Satellite Data Exposed: Unencrypted GEO Links Risk T-Mobile and Other Providers

October 15, 2025, 4:43 AM EDT. The study, to be presented at the Annual Computer Security Applications Conference, shows that satellite internet services, including T-Mobile's, transmitted data in the clear, enabling interception with about $800 of gear. Researchers from the University of Maryland and UC San Diego found that calls, texts, and sensitive data from military and corporate transmissions could be exposed. The full paper, Don't Look Up: There Are Sensitive Internal Links in the Clear on GEO Satellites, is available online. Following coverage by Wired, some providers fixed the flaw while others remain unpatched. The researchers warn that unencrypted transmissions across GEO satellites can affect in-flight Wi-Fi and mobile networks.

Pokemon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 vs Switch 1 graphics and 60 FPS boost

October 15, 2025, 4:39 AM EDT. A graphics comparison shows Pokemon Legends: Z-A running on Nintendo Switch 2 at 60 FPS versus Switch 1 at 30 FPS. On Switch 1, docked resolution tops at 1080p, with a common near 800p. Switch 2 reaches a scaled 2160p with a typical 1080p output. Additional benefits on the newer console include sharper textures and reduced pop-in. Digital Foundry and other outlets are expected to dive deeper soon. The game launches on both systems this Thursday, and a roundup of initial reviews is available.

Are markets in an AI bubble? Two strategists clash over hype vs. reality

October 15, 2025, 4:38 AM EDT. Two strategists clash over whether AI stocks are in a bubble. One argues the surge is unsustainable, citing OpenAI revenue momentum and hyperscaler capex. The other sees pricing in performance, not mania, warning that execution remains key. The discussion also notes Google's huge data-center investment, continued demand for AI infrastructure plays, and the potential impact of tariffs on earnings. While markets edge lower, AMD climbs on a chip deal with Oracle, underscoring ongoing demand for AI tech. The takeaway: investors must distinguish between speculative hype and durable AI growth and corporate execution rather than chase headlines.

Leak From the Sky: Unencrypted Satellite Data Over North America

October 15, 2025, 4:37 AM EDT. Researchers warn that a significant portion of geostationary satellite traffic over North America is unencrypted, exposing data from mobile carriers and the military. The finding highlights a risky gap in satellite security and could enable eavesdropping, traffic analysis, or data manipulation by criminals or adversaries. Experts urge operators and policymakers to implement end-to-end encryption, stronger key management, and routine security audits for ground and space segments. The report underscores how encryption gaps in space-based communications can undermine privacy, civilian networks, and national security, and it calls for updated standards, transparency, and rapid mitigation across the satellite ecosystem.

Goldman Sachs unveils OneGS 3.0 with AI-driven overhaul as it trims jobs

October 15, 2025, 4:36 AM EDT. Goldman Sachs is trimming roles as it rolls out OneGS 3.0, an AI-driven overhaul aimed at modernizing its technology stack and client workflows. According to the internal memo, the bank will consolidate legacy platforms, accelerate automation, and rethink its operating model to win efficiency and scale. The plan emphasizes re-skilling staff for higher-value tasks while reallocating roles to frontier tech and data science. Executives describe the move as part of a broader digital transformation that could reshape business lines and client delivery. The job cuts signal a hard pivot toward AI-enabled services, process automation, and a leaner cost base, with implications for talent strategy across the firm.

Could Tim Cook and Labubus be a match made in heaven?

October 15, 2025, 4:34 AM EDT. Speculation surrounds whether Tim Cook could partner with Labubus, signaling a potential shift in tech strategy. This look at a hypothetical collaboration weighs possible synergies in hardware and software, the impact on privacy, and how regulation could influence cross-industry alliances. It also considers Apple's preference for tightly integrated ecosystems, supply-chain resilience, and sustainability, and how Labubus might complement or challenge that approach. While details are scarce, the piece outlines the business and policy questions such a match would raise for shareholders, rivals, startups, and consumers in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Police warn of AI-generated 'Homeless Man' prank on TikTok, citing safety and legal risks

October 15, 2025, 4:33 AM EDT. Salem police warn that a viral TikTok trend uses AI-generated images of a disheveled stranger to simulate an intruder at home. The so-called AI Homeless Man Prank has spawned videos where targets believe there's a real intruder, prompting 911 calls, stressful police responses, and potential harm. Authorities say the prank dehumanizes the homeless, wastes police resources, and could endanger recipients and officers. Pranksters risk legal trouble for transmitting false information to public safety, with penalties up to 2.5 years in prison or a $1,000 fine. Officials urge participants to consider the consequences before posting and to avoid dangerous, deceptive content on TikTok.

Salesforce to invest $15B in San Francisco to accelerate AI

October 15, 2025, 4:32 AM EDT. Software giant Salesforce will invest $15 billion in its hometown over five years to bolster AI innovation, job creation, and community growth in San Francisco. The plan centers on a new campus hub to support workforce development and training, part of a broader push that includes a $100 million gift to UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital and a $39 million commitment to AI education in local districts. Salesforce estimates the Dreamforce conference will draw about 50,000 attendees, generate roughly $130 million in city revenue, and support about 35,000 local jobs. The push aligns with rising AI investments, even as experts discuss automation's impact on roles in support and software engineering, and the broader AI readiness of metro areas.

Google tests I am feeling lucky in AI Studio alongside a new usage dashboard

October 15, 2025, 4:31 AM EDT. Google is rolling out a redesigned usage dashboard for AI Studio, giving project owners real-time visibility into token and rate-limit across workspaces. The change helps teams monitor consumption, spot spikes, and optimize resources as AI-powered apps scale. In a separate teaser, Google hints at an upcoming I am feeling lucky button in Build mode that auto-generates a random app prompt by combining Gemini capabilities and pre-built components, plus a building blocks composer to simplify integration. Other updates include a Nano Banana image-generation component easy-to-add to prompts, and a tooltip in the model selector signaling future unlocks of additional models. Taken together, the updates emphasize accessibility, faster onboarding, and enterprise-grade controls for varied AI workflows.

Goldman Sachs signals AI-driven overhaul with layoffs and productivity push

October 15, 2025, 4:30 AM EDT. Goldman Sachs is preparing for another round of layoffs as part of a sweeping internal overhaul powered by AI. In a companywide memo, CEO David Solomon's team said they would constrain headcount growth through year-end and carry out a limited reduction in roles, even as the firm posted record Q3 profits. The move accompanies the launch of the OneGS 3.0 framework, aimed at transforming the operating system of the firm. Goldman plans to boost productivity and re-engineer processes across divisions, with six goals including enhancing the client experience, improving profitability, and strengthening risk management. The firm notes that the next growth phase depends on AI-driven efficiency, while overall headcount may still see a net increase for the year.

DJI appeals Pentagon drone ban as court keeps its military-linked listing

October 15, 2025, 4:29 AM EDT. DJI has filed an appeal after a US district court upheld the Department of Defense's decision to place it on the Section 1260H list as part of the Chinese Military Company designation. The court rejected most DoD claims that DJI is owned or controlled by the CCP or operates from a military-civil fusion base, but kept the company on the list on two narrow grounds: its NETC status suggesting government support, and the dual-use nature of its drones. DJI says these rationales are flawed and emphasizes it operates independently with no military or government affiliation. The ruling keeps DJI on the blacklist, limiting federal contracts and chilling private partnerships in its largest US market, while the company vows to defend its integrity and continue the legal fight against the Pentagon's designation.

Frisco Expands License Plate Camera Network to Boost Public Safety

October 15, 2025, 4:27 AM EDT. Frisco approved a new agreement with TxDOT to install additional automated license plate recognition cameras citywide, expanding the LPR network for crime prevention and investigation. Funded by the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority (MVCPA) and maintained by the Frisco Police Department, the cameras will be placed at major intersections such as U.S. 380 and Preston Road. The project builds on last year's partnership with Flock Safety and aims to improve interagency collaboration and rapid tracking of felony suspects. The city also approved a Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program, equipping officers with drones, cameras, and software to support emergency responses and vehicle-crime investigations, operated by trained pilots from Frisco's RTIC. Together, these tech initiatives position Frisco as a leading North Texas public-safety tech hub.

Tesla Dog Mode: How It Works and Whether It's Useful for Pet Owners

October 15, 2025, 4:25 AM EDT. Tesla's Dog Mode is a cabin-preservation feature designed to keep dogs safe when drivers step away. It automatically or manually maintains a set cabin temperature using the vehicle's climate control, and displays a message on the screen that the owner will return and the pet is safe. The Tesla app adds a live cabin camera view and lets you monitor temperature and receive alerts if Dog Mode encounters issues. You can use Dog Mode while charging, though you should still check the battery level and cabin temperature periodically. The feature addresses real concerns about heatstroke, but it relies on proper use and nearby chargers. For pet owners, Dog Mode adds peace of mind but should not replace supervision. Driving with pets remains safest when you plan, ventilate, and never leave animals unattended in extreme heat.

Newsom Signs 16 AI Bills, Vetoes Most-Watched Children's AI Measure

October 15, 2025, 4:24 AM EDT. California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed 16 AI-related bills this session while vetoing the most-watched children's AI bill, signaling a political balance amid Silicon Valley lobbying. With California home to many leading AI firms, the state pursues a mix of industry-friendly rules and child-safety protections. Notable moves include SB 243, softening limits on AI chatbots for kids, a provision that drew advocacy groups away from support for fear of a dangerous precedent. Newsom also approved an amended SB 53 after lobbying battles. The package strengthens enforcement in AB 621, allowing victims of deepfake pornography to sue, and advances AB 56 with warning labels on social media. Supporters, including Tom Steyer, say the package shields families while maintaining innovation.

Save $574 on the Sony a7 IV with Today's Deal – Plus Beats Powerbeats Pro & MX Keys Mini Discounts

October 15, 2025, 4:23 AM EDT. Today's deals spotlight the Sony a7 IV, with shoppers saving an impressive $574 on this premium camera. The post also carousel-highlights other tech markdowns, including Beats Powerbeats Pro wireless earbuds at more than 35% off and the Logitech MX Keys Mini keyboard at about 30% off. Featured under Walmart's Deals of the Day, these price cuts illustrate how premium gear can become more accessible. If you're upgrading your photography or streaming setup, this is a great window to seize the Sony a7 IV deal and explore additional discounts on popular gadgets today.

Army pilots AI-powered HR with IPPS-A to cut paperwork

October 15, 2025, 4:22 AM EDT. The Army is expanding its Integrated Personnel and Pay System-Army (IPPS-A) with an AI-driven pilot called the HR Intelligent Engagement Platform. The goal is to reduce soldiers' paperwork by allowing AI to bridge disparate HR systems and, in the future, initiate HR transactions from a prompt. Project leaders describe an agentic AI tool that could serve as a help desk within the IPPS-A mobile app and may eventually draft and approve leave forms through conversational prompts. IPPS-A managers plan to award a contract for the pilot within the year and emphasize flexibility as technology evolves. Since going live in 2023, IPPS-A has faced feedback-driven updates, with rollouts such as mobile DD-214 previews and plans to streamline unit assignments and detachment processes.

Santa Ana Explores Dash Cams for Police Cars to Boost Accountability and Cut Costs

October 15, 2025, 4:20 AM EDT. Santa Ana officials have directed staff to study the cost and potential benefits of installing dashboard cameras on more than 50 police vehicles. The move comes amid ongoing questions about police accountability, a looming budget deficit, and a powerful police union influence in local elections. Councilwoman Jessie Lopez urged the investigation, arguing dash cams could reduce lawsuits and improve transparency. Staff will report back in January with findings on pricing, rollout, and implementation. The proposal highlights the city's balancing act between accountability measures and fiscal pressures.

Nvidia Unveils DGX Spark: The World's Smallest AI Supercomputer Hand-Delivered to Elon Musk

October 15, 2025, 4:18 AM EDT. Nvidia unveils the DGX Spark, billed as the world's smallest AI supercomputer. About the size of origami paper and 1.99 inches thick, it aims to deliver one petaflop of performance with 128GB of unified memory for around $4,000. By comparison, the 2016 original DGX offered 170 teraflops in a much larger chassis and higher price. To mark the launch, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang hand-delivered a signed DGX Spark to Elon Musk at SpaceX in Starbase, Texas. Orders begin October 15 on Nvidia's website, signaling a shift toward compact, affordable AI hardware for developers and researchers.

Nvidia debuts DGX Spark: a tiny desktop AI computer with 128GB unified memory

October 15, 2025, 4:16 AM EDT. Nvidia unveils the DGX Spark, an ARM-based desktop AI computer running DGX OS (Ubuntu-based) with Nvidia's CUDA libraries and NIM microservices preinstalled. Priced from US $3,999, it aims to undercut traditional AI workstations while delivering GPU-like capability. The unit offers 128GB unified memory, enabling much larger models than a consumer GPU, though at slower speeds than a top-tier card. The on-paper GPU performance is roughly equivalent to an RTX 5070 (limited to 12GB VRAM), with larger models such as a 120B-parameter GPT-oss requiring around 80GB memory. Nvidia's Jensen Huang delivered one of the first units to Elon Musk at SpaceX's Starbase-a nod to the DGX-1/OpenAI era that helped launch ChatGPT.

iPhone Inside? How Apple's A-Series Chips Could Power a Budget MacBook

October 15, 2025, 4:15 AM EDT. Speculation swirls around whether Apple's household A-series processors could underpin a future budget MacBook. The idea hinges on bridging the gap between iPhone-class silicon and a lightweight, affordable laptop, potentially delivering solid efficiency, graphics, and longer battery life without relying on the higher-cost M-series chips. Proponents argue an A-series-powered MacBook could appeal to students and casual users seeking portability over raw desktop performance, while keeping macOS features like native apps and iCloud tight integration. Critics warn about heat, performance ceilings, and limited expandability. If true, Apple would reshape its Mac lineup by threading iPhone-style silicon into a cheaper chassis, signaling a broader strategy of unifying architectures across devices and ecosystems.

DJI Appeals DoD's 'Chinese Military Company' Designation in U.S. Court of Appeals

October 15, 2025, 4:14 AM EDT. DJI has appealed a U.S. District Court ruling that upheld the Department of Defense's designation of the company as a "Chinese Military Company". The appeal to the D.C. Circuit follows a decision that rejected most DoD allegations, noting only two points-National Enterprise Technology Center status and the dual-use nature of some products-without finding military ties. DJI says it operates independently with no government or military affiliation and remains committed to civilian drone tech. The case highlights ongoing U.S. policy tensions: restrictions on DJI in federal use and efforts to strengthen domestic drone supply chains through programs like Blue UAS. The ruling could shape how Chinese Military Company status is defined and how foreign participation is regulated in the American drone market.

Apple rolls out iPadOS 26.1 public beta 3 with new Apple TV icon and Local Capture

October 15, 2025, 4:13 AM EDT. Apple has released public beta 3 for iPadOS 26.1 (alongside tvOS 26.1 and watchOS 26.1). The update highlights a revised Apple TV icon across platforms as part of Apple's rebranding of Apple TV+. A notable change for iPad users is the new Local Capture option in Settings → General, letting you choose where recordings save in Files and enabling an Audio Only toggle. Beyond that, beta 3 emphasizes bug fixes and performance tweaks ahead of a late-October public launch. One remaining quirk: Slide Over continues to support a single app at a time. Public beta 3 follows a day after developer releases, signaling the near arrival of the wider rollout. Readers are invited to share discoveries in the comments.

Few bad documents can poison the largest AI models, study warns

October 15, 2025, 4:12 AM EDT. New research from Anthropic, in collaboration with the Alan Turing Institute and UK AI Security Institute, shows that a mere 250 bad documents can create a covert backdoor vulnerability in large language models. The finding challenges the assumption that bigger models are inherently more resistant to data poisoning, revealing that both small and very large models can be compromised by a tiny fraction of malicious data. While the study uses a harmless demonstration, the risk is real: attackers could trigger models to ignore safety protocols or tailor responses to specific groups by implanting particular patterns. Researchers warn that safety training can be quietly unwound, underscoring the need for robust data vetting and defense against poisoning at scale.

How Leonardo Lopez Is Building AI to Free Human Creativity

October 15, 2025, 4:11 AM EDT. Leonardo Lopez, an 18-year-old software engineer from a small town in southern Spain, is shaping the next era of AI in Silicon Valley. Now at Delphi, a startup that helps people create digital versions of themselves, he works on the idea of digital minds that internalize knowledge and share advice in a person's own voice, beyond real-time availability. Lopez's journey began in a local robotics club, progressed through pandemic-era coding, and included a ChatGPT-powered Discord bot that drew 700,000 users before scale constraints forced shutdown. His leap across the Atlantic from Europe to the Bay Area illustrates a broader story of how AI can democratize access to expertise and reshape how information flows globally.

Nvidia Stock Falls 4% as U.S.-China Tensions Rattle AI Chip Investors

October 15, 2025, 4:09 AM EDT. NVIDIA shares slipped about 4% to $181 after renewed U.S.-China tensions and rising competition in the AI hardware market. The move followed reports that China's transport ministry is reviewing a U.S. probe into Chinese shipping firms, heightening trade jitters. Broadcom dipped while the broader chip sector cooled on the race to supply computing power to major cloud players like Meta and Alphabet. Nvidia highlighted the competitive dynamic by touting a new DGX Spark compact AI supercomputer for developers, expanding its data-center stack to smaller environments. Broadcom's own AI accelerator deal with OpenAI underscored the intensifying race. Analysts call the weakness temporary, noting Nvidia's robust developer ecosystem and software platform supporting its longer-term outlook.

Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian: 'much of the internet is now dead' sparks debate

October 15, 2025, 4:08 AM EDT. Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian argues that much of the internet is now dead, reflecting concerns about centralization, moderation, and the erosion of open web debate. In a broader critique of digital platforms and algorithmic feeds, Ohanian highlights how platform power can fragment communities and push creators toward monopolies. The debate touches on user agency, privacy, and the future of free expression online, as tech leaders weigh how to preserve an open web in an era of shadowbans, policy shifts, and changing monetization models. While critics say the internet isn't dead, the conversation underscores the tension between platform business models and the promise of a decentralized, interoperable web.

Google's Gemini-Powered 'Help me schedule' Automates Meeting Planning in Gmail and Calendar

October 15, 2025, 4:07 AM EDT. Google is rolling out a Gemini-powered feature called 'Help me schedule' that automatically suggests meeting times inside Gmail when you're emailing someone outside your organization. The tool analyzes your calendar and the email context to surface ideal 30-minute blocks, which you can tweak and drop into your message. When the recipient picks a time, the meeting is added to both calendars. Designed for quick, one-to-one scheduling rather than multi-person links, this feature marks another step in Google's plan to embed AI across Gmail and Google Calendar with the goal of reducing scheduling friction. The rollout adds to Gemini's growing role in everyday work tasks.

Gmail and Google Calendar gain Gemini-powered 'Help me schedule' to streamline meeting invites

October 15, 2025, 4:06 AM EDT. Google's Gmail now surfaces a Gemini-powered feature called Help me schedule in the bottom toolbar to coordinate meetings with Google Calendar. When composing, it suggests ideal times by checking your availability and the email context, so you can edit, insert into the message, and automatically add a calendar invite once the recipient picks a time. Initially available for individual contacts only, this AI-assisted scheduling aims to reduce back-and-forth emails and streamline the process of finding a slot that fits everyone's calendar. It builds on Add to Calendar, tying together Gmail, Calendar, and Gemini for smoother coordination.

Foundations launch Humanity AI with $500M to put human needs at the center of AI development

October 15, 2025, 4:05 AM EDT. Ten philanthropic foundations have launched Humanity AI, a coalition pledging $500 million over five years to keep AI development aligned with human interests. The effort aims to shift power away from moneyed developers and place people at the center of AI's integration into daily life. Members must fund at least one priority area: advancing democracy, strengthening education, protecting artists, enhancing work, or defending personal security. The coalition includes MacArthur Foundation, Packard Foundation, Mellon Foundation, Doris Duke Foundation, Ford Foundation, Omidyar Network, Mozilla Foundation, and Siegal Family Foundation. Mozilla's Nabiha Syed says the group will back participation over control and open by design systems. Critics note harms from deepfakes, misinformation, energy use, and job displacement.

Google's Gemini-powered 'Help me schedule' AI makes Gmail Calendar meeting planning easier

October 15, 2025, 4:03 AM EDT. Google is adding a Gemini-powered feature called Help me schedule to Gmail that surfaces suitable meeting times from your Google Calendar availability and inserts them into emails. Designed for one-on-one meetings, the tool: 1) appears as a Help me schedule button in Gmail's compose window, 2) shows a selection of time slots, editable before sending, and 3) automatically creates calendar invites on both sides when a time is chosen. It uses Gemini's AI to consider the email context (e.g., requesting a 30-minute slot next week) and propose slots that fit your schedule. The feature sits within Google Workspace's AI push alongside Gemini features in Slides, Gems, NotebookLM, and more. It's a convenience for coordinating meetings without leaving Gmail.

Walmart and OpenAI Pair Up to Turn Chat Into a Shopping Engine

October 15, 2025, 4:02 AM EDT. Walmart and OpenAI are linking ChatGPT to Walmart and Sam's Club for instant checkout, turning conversation into a shopping destination. The move anchors what Walmart calls agentic commerce, letting users surface meal ideas, add ingredients, build a cart, and complete orders without leaving the chat. The approach signals a shift from a traditional search-based flow to a native AI shopping experience, with investors lifting Walmart stock on the prospect. The partnership builds on Walmart's internal Sparky assistant and aligns with OpenAI's push to embed ChatGPT in retail for discovery, intent, and conversion. Questions remain about data rules and consumer hesitancy, but the direction is clear: the prompt is increasingly becoming a purchase.

AirTag 4-Pack drops to $65: unbeatable deal for travel, luggage, and everyday tracking

October 15, 2025, 4:00 AM EDT. With the holidays looming, the AirTag 4-pack is on sale for a record-low $65, a 34% discount. The piece explains how the Find My network and UWB enable pinpoint tracking of items like luggage, wallets, keys, and even crowded-place essentials. AirTags are tiny, simple to use, and compatible with a wide range of aftermarket cases, making them a versatile tool for travelers. The author shares personal uses-from tracking bags and remotes to keeping tabs on kids in crowds-highlighting why many iPhone users reach for AirTag over other Bluetooth trackers.

K2 Space unveils Trinity: three-satellite demo to validate a true multi-orbit bus across LEO, MEO and GTO

October 15, 2025, 3:59 AM EDT. K2 Space unveiled its Trinity mission for 2027, a three-satellite demonstration on a SpaceX Falcon 9 that will deploy to different orbital regimes from a single launch to prove a true multi-orbit bus. Two satellites will operate in LEO and MEO, while a third heads to GTO (geostationary transfer orbit). One LEO satellite will later raise to MEO, the other to MEO within 90 days, and the third will go directly to GTO. CEO Karan Kunjur says the plan shows what's possible with the K2 platform. The effort builds on in-orbit tests and follows the 2026 Gravitas mission funded by the U.S. Space Force, a Mega-class satellite in MEO with 12 payloads and a SES pathfinder.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A delivers a fantastic return to form for the series

October 15, 2025, 3:58 AM EDT. Pokémon Legends: Z-A marks a fantastic return to form for Nintendo's monster-collecting RPGs. Building on the tremors of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, Z-A refines the series' battle and catching systems and expands the open-world experiment into a more focused experience. While Scarlet and Violet stumbled with technical issues and uneven storytelling, Z-A keeps the fresh energy without sacrificing polish. Set in the Kalos region's capital, Lumiose, under redevelopment by Quasartico, the game blends familiar landmarks with new Wild Zones and a more immersive city vibe. In short, Z-A demonstrates how the Legends approach could become the new standard-evolving the formula while preserving the thrill of discovering new Pokémon.

Google Meet debuts AI-powered makeup filter with 12 styles

October 15, 2025, 3:57 AM EDT. Google Meet has introduced an AI-powered makeup filter to level up its video calls, offering 12 styles accessible under the Appearance > Portrait touch-up setting (a feature since 2023 that includes complexion smoothing, under-eye lightening, and eye whitening). The filter is designed to stay in place as you move, making the effect look more natural. It is disabled by default and can be turned on before or during a call. Once applied, your choice is remembered for future meetings. The rollout began on October 8 for mobile and web, as Google aims to compete with Microsoft Teams and Zoom in virtual makeup features.

Nvidia's DGX Spark: A Personal AI Supercomputer Arrives at $3,999

October 15, 2025, 3:54 AM EDT. Nvidia launches the DGX Spark, a desktop-sized 'personal AI supercomputer' for $3,999 available Oct 15. It packs the GB10 Grace Blackwell Superchip-a 20-core Arm CPU paired with a Blackwell GPU and 128GB unified memory in one address space. You can load models up to 200B parameters locally, with ~1 petaflop of AI inference and ~8,000 tokens/sec on Llama 3.1 8B. The 1.2kg box draws 240W, far leaner than data-center rigs. Memory bandwidth tops at 273 GB/s, a bottleneck for the heaviest workloads. It ships with DGX OS and Nvidia's AI software stack and can scale via DGX Cloud; clustering uses ConnectX-7 for distributed workloads. It targets rapid iteration, local development, and private inference, not sole throughput.

Samsung revamps Bixby with a redesigned overlay as One UI 8.5 approaches

October 15, 2025, 3:53 AM EDT. Samsung isn't giving up on Bixby yet. Fresh leaks show a redesigned onscreen overlay for Bixby alongside visual tweaks that mirror the One UI 8.5 refresh and hints of a new Gemini overlay. While the changes are visual, insiders had already flagged improved integration with Modes and Routines. In practice, Gemini remains strong when online, with tighter sync to core apps like Calendar, Reminders, and Notes on newer devices. Samsung is expected to roll out One UI 8.5 later this year, with a beta possible by end of November and a broader release to the Galaxy S26 era devices early next year. The Galaxy S25 series still anchors Bixby's role; whether performance gains accompany the UI refresh is yet unproven.

iPhone 17 Introduces Tap-to-Rotate and Tap-to-Zoom for Faster Selfies

October 15, 2025, 3:52 AM EDT. Apple's iPhone 17 adds on-device software controls for the front camera: Tap to rotate and Tap to zoom. Available on the iPhone 17 lineup and iPhone Air, these taps rotate the capture orientation and tighten the crop without twisting the phone, unlike the traditional gyro rotation. The feature supports front-camera face detection to keep subjects centered. Real-world use spans car mounts, gimbals, tight spaces, and one-handed selfies for Stories. A quick 30-second workflow is outlined: open Camera -> Photo -> front camera, hold steady, Tap to rotate if needed, Tap to zoom, then shutter. Tips include consistent zoom steps for thumbnails, reducing motion blur, and using a countdown. Note compatibility: older models (e.g., iPhone 16) don't support these controls.

iPhone 17's best upgrade: Center Stage selfie camera with auto-framing and stabilization

October 15, 2025, 3:50 AM EDT. Despite the buzz around the iPhone 17's 4x telephoto and vapor cooling, the standout upgrade is the 18MP Center Stage selfie camera with auto-framing and ultra-stabilized video. The new sensor is included in every model, enabling landscape selfies and reliable framing across apps, including WhatsApp, Zoom, and other third-party software. The feature's strength is a quality-of-life improvement rather than a raw megapixel leap, keeping you in frame whether you're moving or multitasking. With auto zoom/rotate in the viewfinder and broad app support, Center Stage is a practical upgrade many users will notice daily across the entire iPhone 17 lineup.

Samsung's One UI 8.5 may throttle network performance with Network Battery Saver and Personal Data Intelligence

October 15, 2025, 3:49 AM EDT. Leaked One UI 8.5 code hints at a Network Battery Saver that uses Personal Data Intelligence to curb network performance when the phone is idle (e.g., during sleep), in future Samsung Galaxy devices. The feature, reportedly based on Android 16 QPR2, would help save battery by limiting data activity while allowing users to manage apps and services via Settings. APK teardown reveals strings like 'Network battery saver' and 'Turn on Personal data intelligence.' While ambitious, it's unclear if the feature will ship in final builds or how it affects app behavior and privacy. Still, the leak signals Samsung's move toward AI-driven power management in Samsung Galaxy devices.

Google Photos 7.49 trials Instagram-like text editor for Android videos

October 15, 2025, 3:48 AM EDT. Google Photos for Android is testing a new video editor in version 7.49 that adds Instagram-like text overlays. The update introduces multiple fonts, alignment options, and richer color choices-expanding beyond the current single font and limited palette. A highlight option behind text and more precise positioning aim to give creators finer control over on-video text. The changes are in a trial phase and not yet rolled out broadly; users will receive a notification when the updated editor becomes available.

Rumored iOS 26.0.1 revision (23A357) could bring iPadOS tweaks, but changes unclear

October 15, 2025, 3:47 AM EDT. Apple released iOS 26.0.1, and now rumors swirl about a revised build. An anonymous leaker claims a new iOS 26.0.1 with build number 23A357 could arrive, separate from the original 23A355. But these reports are unconfirmed, and 9to5Mac notes the leaks have mixed accuracy. If anything changes, it might be iPadOS revisions tied to the expected release of the M5 iPad Pro later this month, meaning iPhone users might not notice any difference. In short: keep expectations cautious, as the specifics of a revised build remain unclear and largely speculative.

Walmart and OpenAI Partner to Bring ChatGPT Shopping to Customers

October 15, 2025, 3:45 AM EDT. Walmart and OpenAI said they will let customers and Sam's Club members shop directly inside ChatGPT using the chatbot's Instant Checkout feature. The move, which follows similar AI partnerships with Etsy and Shopify, signals Walmart's push to embed AI into the shopping experience and cut costs. The retailer has been moving to roll out AI-powered 'super agents' to improve the shopping journey and streamline operations. Walmart shares rose about 3% in early trading after the announcement. The deal underscores how big retailers are expanding AI-enabled shopping tools to boost convenience and efficiency.

Nvidia's DGX Spark AI mini-PC goes on sale Oct 15 with up to 1 petaFLOP AI inference

October 15, 2025, 3:44 AM EDT. Nvidia is finally selling the DGX Spark AI mini-PC on October 15 after CES delays. The system pairs a Grace CPU with a Blackwell GPU and pools 128GB of LPDDR5X memory to deliver up to 1 petaFLOP of AI inferencing (with FP4 sparsity). It supports up to ~200-billion parameters and can be doubled by linking two units via the built-in Nvidia ConnectX 7 NIC. Running the DGX OS (a Ubuntu fork) and the CUDA stack, DGX Spark targets local AI development and inference, not gaming. It competes with Ryzen AI mini-PCs like Strix Halo but is Linux/ARM-first for toolchain and CUDA compatibility. Availability is through Nvidia and partners (Dell, Asus, MSI, HP).

GM Faces Nearly $2B Hit as EV Push Slows Under Policy Shifts

October 15, 2025, 3:41 AM EDT. General Motors warned it will take about a $1.6 billion hit in Q3 tied to its electric-vehicle (EV) program, part of a broader reassessment of its EV capacity. The loss includes $1.2 billion in non-cash charges and $400 million in contract cancellations and settlements related to past EV investments. GM also cautioned that future similar charges remain possible. The move comes amid shifts in U.S. policy and references to the end of the $7,500 federal tax credit for EV purchases. Management says the policy changes could slow EV adoption, though GM's adjusted earnings aren't affected on its NYSE reporting. The company continues its energy strategy, including a planned $4 billion U.S. investment to build plants in Kansas and Tennessee and expansion of its energy arm.

Quantum computing on the verge: a look at the quantum marketplace today

October 15, 2025, 3:40 AM EDT. Quantum computing is moving from lab demos to a burgeoning marketplace, with roughly 400 competing players and a mosaic of qubit platforms. Industry leaders gathered in London for the Royal Society on the future of quantum information as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology 2025 kicks off. While foundational principles are secure, experts say practical quantum advantage is approaching, spurring a race to deliver usable hardware, software stacks, and services. The market features competing qubit platforms, high-fidelity gates, and commercial deployments aimed at solving real problems, from optimization to chemistry, as the industry matures into a full-fledged tech marketplace.

Zoom Into Savings: Canon EOS R7 Gets $360 Off plus Other Daily Tech Deals

October 15, 2025, 3:38 AM EDT. Today's deals spotlight the Canon EOS R7 DSLR with a $360 off price, along with notable discounts in Amazon's Deals of the Day. Also on sale: the TP-Link Tapo Wire-Free MagCam security camera at a significant markdown and the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max at nearly 35% off. The savings, dated October 14, 2025, cover cameras, smart home security, and streaming gear, making it a strong day for shoppers looking to upgrade gear without breaking the bank.

How to Spot and Stop AI-Driven Phishing Scams, Says Cybersecurity Expert

October 15, 2025, 3:35 AM EDT. AI phishing scams use AI to craft convincing emails, voices and videos. Cybersecurity expert Kurt 'The CyberGuy' Knutsson shares practical tips to avoid falling for them, and a report notes North Korean agents posing as IT workers to funnel funds into a nuclear program. A real case: a woman lost ~$850,000 after an AI-generated impersonation. Spot AI-driven scams by watching for red flags: a suspicious sender address, generic greetings, urgent demands, and unsolicited attachments or links. Even with tools like ChatGPT, attackers can produce flawless copy and deepfake media, including voice clone and deepfake video scams. Verify identities, hover links, and proceed cautiously. Stay vigilant and report suspicious activity.

Nvidia and AMD Could Be Biggest Winners as AI Startups Like Groq Drive Chip Demand

October 15, 2025, 3:34 AM EDT. The AI boom is reshaping hardware demand, with Groq challenging Nvidia and AMD not by dethroning them, but by expanding the market for specialized chips. Groq's language processing unit (LPU) targets AI inference, delivering speed and efficiency that complements GPUs used for training. The shift toward inference boosts overall chip demand, benefiting Nvidia and AMD as customers expand beyond traditional GPUs to NPUs and other accelerators. Groq recently raised about $750 million, valuing it near $7 billion, and OpenAI has signed deals with both Nvidia and AMD for AI compute. The result: a rising tide for incumbents and a broader ecosystem of AI hardware, where startups help validate demand and push incumbents to innovate faster.

Samsung pauses One UI 8 update for Galaxy S22 series

October 15, 2025, 3:32 AM EDT. Samsung has paused the One UI 8 rollout for the Galaxy S22, S22 Plus, and S22 Ultra worldwide after a suspected firmware issue, according to SamMobile. The update had already arrived on these 2022 flagships after the public rollouts for other Galaxy devices, but users are advised to stay on One UI 7 for now. While many may worry about glitches, SamMobile notes there were no obvious problems in their tests. Samsung previously released One UI 8 for the Galaxy S24 and S23 lines, and the company hinted that future updates like One UI 8.5 based on Android 16 could still come to the S22 series. This pause could impact owners awaiting the final software refresh.

Pokemon Legends: Z-A review – fast real-time battles and a world that finally feels like the anime

October 15, 2025, 3:31 AM EDT. Pokemon Legends: Z-A finally makes the anime feel alive with its fast, real-time combat and a world worth exploring. Building on Legends: Arceus, this entry shifts toward battles, overhauling the combat system with a real-time, cooldown-based action. Players train alongside Chikorita and master moves like Razor Leaf, Tackle, and Tail Whip, while a dodge roll keeps you safe in tense encounters and boss fights. Encounters are more strategic, with multiple wild Pokémon and the trainer at risk, making careful positioning essential. The game stays accessible but offers deep systems for veterans, delivering a fresh, tactical take that pushes the Pokemon series forward and finally brings the anime to life.

NVIDIA GeForce 581.57 WHQL Game Ready Drivers: Day-One DLSS 4 Optimizations

October 15, 2025, 3:30 AM EDT. NVIDIA today delivers the GeForce 581.57 WHQL Game Ready drivers with day-zero optimizations for ARC Raiders, Pax Dei, The Outer Worlds 2, and Vampire: The Masquerade-Bloodlines 2, plus DLSS 4 support. The update fixes multiple issues across titles, including Steam Overlay stability, Hell is Us visual glitches, a graphical glitch in Black Myth: Wukong after R580, and Madden 26 stability. It resolves crashes with Smooth Motion on games containing Chinese text, plus graphics corruption in Total War: Warhammer III, and stability issues in Delta Force. Other fixes cover Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 display artifacts, a black screen on the Alienware AW2524H, and DxO Photolab 9 AI-masks issues. Known issues remain for Counter-Strike 2 text distortion and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth flicker.

Google Bundles Gemini into an Enterprise Platform with Agent Toolkit and Cross-Platform Protocols

October 15, 2025, 3:29 AM EDT. As platforms consolidate tools, Google is folding its Gemini AI suite into an enterprise platform called Gemini Enterprise, positioned as a front door to its growing AI tools and services. Highlights include the Agent Development Kit, an open-source framework unveiled at NEXT 2025 to accelerate production-grade, agentic AI apps; Agent2Agent (A2A) for agent collaboration; and Agent Payment Protocol (AP2) to enable cross-platform agent transactions. The stack spans from Vertex AI development and infrastructure (GPUs and TPUs) to an AI Agent Marketplace for building, buying, and selling agents. The move mirrors broader platformization trends in AI and cybersecurity, aiming to simplify integration and speed deployment for enterprises.

Tesla Cybertruck vs Chevy Silverado: Which Has Higher Monthly Costs?

October 15, 2025, 3:28 AM EDT. EVs promise lower fuel costs, but monthly expenses vary widely. Using 1,500 miles as a baseline, a Silverado at 17 mpg with gas at $3.10/gal costs about $274, while a Cybertruck consumes ~0.399-0.429 kWh/mile, translating to roughly $105-$112 at home electricity and up to about $300 if charged exclusively at a Supercharger. The real difference hinges on where you charge, energy prices, and how you drive (towing and colder weather cut range). Plus, the sticker price-roughly twice a Silverado-means payback timing often exceeds a decade. Regional gas prices and home electricity costs add more variability. Bottom line: total monthly cost depends on your charging habits, usage, and incentives.

Vergecast ranks Google's Pixel lineup: A-series first, Tablet last

October 15, 2025, 3:27 AM EDT. On The Vergecast, The Verge hosts rank Google's Pixel lineup using a new Rank-o-meter. The six products considered are Pixel phones, the Pixel A-series, the Pixel Fold, the Pixel Watch, the Pixel Buds, and the Pixel Tablet. After weighing price, competition, and "immeasurable awesomeness," the final order is: 6th Pixel Tablet, 5th Pixel Fold, 4th Pixel Buds, 3rd Pixel phones, 2nd Pixel Watch, and 1st Pixel A-series. The hosts argue there's no simple conversion chart, but conclude the Pixel A-series leads the pack this year, with the Pixel Watch close behind and the rest fighting for rank. The discussion also touches the Light Phone and the "anti-smartphone" movement, and invites listener feedback via hotline and email.

Galaxy Watch FE discontinued as Walmart launches $99 Wear OS sale

October 15, 2025, 3:26 AM EDT. The Galaxy Watch FE, Samsung's budget entry to Wear OS, launched in June 2024 as a redux of the Galaxy Watch 4. Now effectively dead, Samsung no longer lists it and direct links redirect to the Galaxy Watch 8. Support remains, with a recent software update pointing toward continued compatibility and a potential upgrade to Wear OS 6 via One UI 8 Watch. The fire sale is real: Walmart is selling the Galaxy Watch FE for just $99 with no trade-in required, making it the best price yet seen for a brand-new Wear OS smartwatch. It remains an option alongside discounted Galaxy Watch 7 or refurbished Galaxy Watch 6.

Study Finds Large Volumes of Unencrypted Data on GEO Satellite Links Exposing Private Traffic

October 15, 2025, 3:25 AM EDT. Researchers from UC San Diego and the University of Maryland scanned IP traffic on 39 GEO satellites across 25 longitudes and found that about half carried cleartext data. They intercepted unencrypted private voice calls, texts, and consumer internet traffic, including cellular backhaul and in-flight Wi-Fi. The study also revealed unencrypted data for military tracking and police operations, plus sensitive retail and banking information. After disclosure, operators such as T-Mobile reportedly enabled encryption. The paper notes a systemic failure to encrypt at multiple protocol layers: only a minority of downlinks used MPEG scrambling, just 6% consistently employed IPsec, and encryption is not widely deployed across satellite links. The findings urge operators to tighten security practices and rethink threat models for satellite communications.

JPMorgan launches $1.5 trillion Security and Resiliency Initiative to boost critical industries

October 15, 2025, 3:24 AM EDT. JPMorgan Chase unveiled a Security and Resiliency Initiative committing up to $1.5 trillion over the next decade to finance and invest in industries deemed vital to national economic security. The plan expands on a prior goal and targets 27 sectors, including critical minerals, mining, solar, nuclear energy, battery storage, nanomaterials, and defence, to strengthen US supply chains amid geopolitical risk. The bank will offer tailored financing, advisory services, and partnerships to boost domestic production, and will invest up to $10 billion in direct equity and venture capital to back select US companies. CEO Jamie Dimon called for streamlined permitting and reduced bureaucracy to accelerate growth, innovation, and resilience.

Broadcom AVGO Slips After Launching Thor Ultra, Nvidia AI NIC Rival

October 15, 2025, 3:23 AM EDT. Broadcom's stock (AVGO) dipped over 3% after unveiling the Thor Ultra, a 800G NIC designed to power large-scale AI data centers and compete with Nvidia. The chip supports 800 Gbps speeds and full UEC compliance with Advanced RDMA, signaling Broadcom's push into AI networking alongside its data-center processors. Analysts note an AI opportunity valued at roughly $60-$90 billion by 2027, split across networking chips and data-center products. Broadcom cites interoperability and openness as key advantages over incumbents. The company also announced a collaboration with OpenAI to roll out custom chips starting in 2026, underscoring its AI growth strategy. Despite the launch, AVGO trades lower today, with a Strong Buy consensus on TipRanks and a median price target near $389.48.

Windows 10 reaches end of support today, but the clock isn't done ticking

October 15, 2025, 3:22 AM EDT. Today marks the official end of support for Windows 10. That doesn't make PCs stop, but it means no more regular security patches unless you opt into Extended Security Updates (ESU)-a one-year option for home users or up to three years for IT fleets. The shift comes as Windows 11 remains the preferred path for compatible machines, while many older PCs have no official upgrade route. Microsoft Defender and core apps like Edge will still receive updates through ESU. For many consumers, the practical advice is to upgrade to a supported system or new PC; a handful of workarounds may delay that decision, but not indefinitely.

Eugene to Disable 57 Flock License Plate Cameras on Oct. 14 Amid Privacy Concerns

October 15, 2025, 3:21 AM EDT. The city of Eugene, Oregon will turn off its 57 license plate reader cameras on October 14 after residents and the City Council raised privacy and data-access concerns about the vendor, Flock Safety. City Manager Sarah Medary announced the disabling is temporary, pending a deeper council discussion on the surveillance technology and the contract terms. Police Chief Chris Skinner will continue negotiating changes with Flock Safety for presentation next month. Critics argue the system intrudes on civil liberties and data control, while supporters cite potential crime-solving benefits. The move highlights ongoing tech policy debates about how cities deploy and regulate surveillance technology and third-party data access.

Sheryl Sandberg-backed Flint aims to autonomously build and update websites with AI

October 15, 2025, 3:20 AM EDT. Michelle Lim, who led Warp's growth marketing, launched Flint, an AI platform that lets startups set up websites that update themselves. Flint auto-generates design and layout, interactive elements, and ad optimization, with pages learning from visitors and market trends. It can run self-initiated A/B tests and tailor pages to individual visitors, reducing the need for design cycles. Currently, users supply copy; AI-written content is planned for the future. Flint emerged from stealth with $5M in seed funding led by Accel and participation from Sandberg Bernthal Venture Partners and Neo. The product is still in early stages, and developers say page creation can take about a day.

Apple Narrowly Trails Samsung in Global Smartphone Shipments as iPhone 17 Spurs Premium Upgrade Push

October 15, 2025, 3:17 AM EDT. Apple is narrowing Samsung's lead in global smartphone shipments thanks to the iPhone 17 lineup. IDC's Q3 data show Apple at 18.2% share vs Samsung's 19%, a closing gap driven by premium hardware-software integration, trade-in programs, and flexible financing. Apple shipped about 58.6 million iPhones, a 2.9% YoY rise, while Samsung shipped 61.4 million. The strategy centers on ecosystem loyalty and accessibility rather than price cuts or budget devices. If momentum persists, Apple could reclaim the top spot in global shipments, signaling a shift toward premium devices and refined upgrade paths.

Afghanistan social media ban triggers 35,000% VPN surge as authorities restrict access

October 15, 2025, 3:16 AM EDT. Following an October 7 social media restriction in Afghanistan, internet access has been increasingly throttled, with residents turning to VPNs to reach blocked platforms. Proton VPN reported a staggering +35,000% rise above baseline usage, while Top10VPN notes a 574% jump against the prior 28-day average. Taliban government sources confirmed restrictions on major sites but offered little formal explanation. NetBlocks shows widespread blocks on Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok, and Snapchat, plus regional internet shutdowns in Kandahar. The prior 48-hour nationwide outage on September 29 is part of a broader government effort to curb content. Experts describe VPNs as a way to bypass censorship by routing traffic through foreign servers. Proton VPN and other free services have seen continued surges amid ongoing restrictions.

Lenovo Tab One Review: Can a $100 Tablet Really Cut It?

October 15, 2025, 3:14 AM EDT. At around $100, the Lenovo Tab One packs a MediaTek Helio G85 with 4 GB RAM and 64 GB storage, expandable via MicroSD, and even the Wi-Fi model includes GPS (LTE is optional). In benchmarks it trails midrange tablets: CPU performance is similar to the Tab and Redmi Pad SE, while GPU trails the Galaxy Tab A9. In practice it's fine for one app at a time, YouTube, and light web browsing, but multitasking stutters. For gaming, Asphalt Legends runs smoothly on low, PUBG Mobile is decent, and some titles like Fortnite won't run; Blasphemous tends to lag on startup. The 8.7-inch IPS panel at 1340×800 (~720p) is serviceable but text isn't sharp. Overall, a compelling budget option for casual use.

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) Prime Day Deals: 40mm and 44mm Wi-Fi + Cellular Models Slashed to $170-$220

October 15, 2025, 3:12 AM EDT. Prime Day shoppers can snag the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) at deep discounts on both 40mm and 44mm models. The standard Wi-Fi version drops from $249 to $170, while the larger 44mm falls to $200. Cellular versions follow a similar pattern, with the 40mm down from $299 to $220 and the 44mm from $329 to $220, offering independent calling/texting. The watch sports an OLED Retina display at up to 1000 nits, swim-proof design, and fitness tracking from heart rate monitoring to Sleep and activity rings. It also includes Safety features like Crash Detection and Emergency SOS. Whether you're chasing better sleep, gym goals, or just staying connected, this is a strong Prime Day buy for Apple fans.

Galaxy Watch 7 Gets One UI 8 Update in the US

October 15, 2025, 3:11 AM EDT. Samsung is rolling out One UI 8 to the Galaxy Watch 7 in the US today. The update is landing on Verizon LTE models, with the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi version expected to follow. Build numbers are L305USQU1BYI4 (40mm) and L315USQU1BYI4 (44mm). What's new in One UI 8? If you read the Galaxy Watch Ultra update, you'll find many of the same changes, including custom Tile creation, low-light mode on select watch faces, a Running Coach, and mood tracking. The rollout is active now, and Verizon also hints at a fresh update for the Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro tomorrow. Update (10/14): the Watch 5 series patch is not One UI 8; it's a monthly patch with builds R925USQU1CYI1 (Watch 5 Pro), R905USQU1CYI1 (40mm), R915USQU1CYI1 (44mm).

Apple AirPods Pro 3 review: refined design, stronger ANC, and seamless ecosystem integration

October 15, 2025, 3:10 AM EDT. Apple's AirPods Pro 3 arrive as a refined evolution rather than a reinvention, priced at Rs 25,900. The design is slightly more compact with a secure fit, foam-infused silicone ear tips, and an improved seal that sharpens noise cancellation (ANC). The dual sensors enable skin detection to save battery and prevent accidental playback. Inside, the H2 chip powers richer sound, smarter health-tracking, and tighter ecosystem integration. The case gains a UWB (Find My) chip for Precision Finding, IP57 durability, and easy controls via capacitive touch. Overall, the AirPods Pro 3 offer premium sound, comfort, and smart features that may set a new benchmark for wireless earbuds.

Vivo X300 Pro 5G vs X300: Key camera, size & battery differences

October 15, 2025, 3:09 AM EDT. Vivo's X300 Pro 5G and X300 share Zeiss optics and the Dimensity 9500, but diverge in key specs. The X300 Pro carries a 50MP Sony LYT 828 primary sensor, while the X300 uses a 200MP Samsung HPB primary sensor, with the HPB used as the Pro's telephoto lens and a 50MP Samsung JN1 ultra-wide. Selfies are 50MP JN1 on both. Size-wise, the Pro is larger (6.78 inches vs 6.3 inches) though both use glass-aluminium bodies with IP68/IP69 ratings. Battery differs too: 6,510mAh with 90W fast charging on the Pro, versus 6,040mAh on the X300. Expect similar overall performance but a distinct camera experience and ergonomics due to the size and sensor choices.

Anduril Unveils EagleEye XR Headset in Collaboration with Meta for Military AR

October 15, 2025, 3:08 AM EDT. Anduril Industries has unveiled the EagleEye hardware, an XR headset built with Meta to deliver augmented reality and virtual reality systems for soldiers. The demo shows a behind-the-lens view with a heads-up mini-map, Low Light and Thermal displays, an overhead drone feed, and AI-driven tracking markers to keep friendlies visible. The hardware appears to be AR glasses with an optional shroud. EagleEye ties into the Lattice battlefield platform, merging RF signatures, rear-view cameras, non-emissive lasers, biometric and environmental sensors, and real-time alerts to enhance perception, connectivity, and survivability. The release comes as Anduril competes for a U.S. Army contract against Rivet, in the wake of the previous IVAS project awarded to Microsoft.

Vivo X300 Pro proves 2025's best camera phone with Zeiss T coatings and VS1 Imaging Chip

October 15, 2025, 3:07 AM EDT. Vivo's X300 Pro stacks a 50-MP main camera on a 1/1.28-inch sensor plus a 50-MP ultra-wide and a 200-MP periscope telephoto, all with Zeiss T coatings. The new VS1 Imaging Chip handles color processing, tone mapping, and multi-frame HDR, delivering consistent results across the entire zoom range-from 1x to 100x. In real use, 3.5x stays sharp while 10x images are surprisingly detailed and color-accurate, with stable framing. The external Zeiss telephoto converter pushes reach to a 5400mm equivalent, offering distances hard to imagine on a phone. Vivo's ecosystem approach, including the Photographer Kit, shows how hardware and software work together to redefine mobile photography in 2025.

IONQ vs Rigetti vs QBTS: Which Quantum-Computing Stock Is Best?

October 15, 2025, 3:05 AM EDT. Quantum computing stocks have rallied as the AI boom fuels investment. This analysis compares IonQ (IONQ), Rigetti (RGTI), and D-Wave (QBTS) to identify the standout opportunity. Year-to-date gains are substantial: IonQ up about 96%, Rigetti around 260%, and D-Wave about 383%. IonQ emphasizes a trapped-ion approach with higher gate fidelity (2-qubit fidelity 99.97% vs Rigetti's 99.5%), plus strong revenue growth and a recent $1 billion equity raise to fund expansion and acquisitions like Oxford Ionics and Vector Atomic. Rigetti markets a full-stack cloud platform (QCS) around superconducting chips for scalable development. QBTS offers a different path with its own architecture. The piece weighs momentum vs. risk as investors assess the sector's long-term potential.

Timber Merger, Walmart-OpenAI AI Shopping, Dimon's Credit Warning: Tech Policy Roundup

October 15, 2025, 3:04 AM EDT. Timber giants Rayonier and PotlatchDeltic announce an all-stock merger creating a roughly $7.1B forestry company (up to $8.2B with debt) that would control about 4.2 million acres, second only to Weyerhaeuser; Rayonier CEO Mark McHugh will lead in a 'merger of equals.' Walmart partners with OpenAI to let shoppers browse and buy on ChatGPT, expanding AI into retail; a 'buy' button links to Walmart and Sam's Club inventory, spanning apparel, entertainment and food. JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon cautions that auto sector bankruptcies reflect looser lending and could signal the end of a 14-year credit bull market, with more credit troubles in a downturn.

Korea warns subsidies could be suspended as nearly 4,500 Teslas report battery errors

October 15, 2025, 3:03 AM EDT. Nearly 4,500 Teslas in Korea have logged 4,637 battery management system errors (BMS_a079) since 2017, with many drivers unable to charge as the system caps at 50% to prevent fires. Over half of the replacements used remanufactured batteries, sparking consumer outrage over reliability and Tesla Korea's accountability. The Korean Environment Ministry has warned that continued inaction could suspend government subsidies for electric vehicles. Data show most cases occurred in 2021 models (about 65%), especially Model Y. Critics accuse Tesla of lacking transparency; the company has not issued a formal response. If Tesla remains unresponsive, authorities say they may pursue recalls or public-fund withdrawals. The situation highlights questions about battery lifecycle, warranty coverage, and the role of public subsidies in accelerating EV adoption.

GrapheneOS to expand beyond Pixel with major OEM Snapdragon-powered devices

October 15, 2025, 3:02 AM EDT. GrapheneOS, the security-focused Android ROM, will not stay Pixel-only for long. The team says a major OEM will soon join the project, bringing Snapdragon-powered devices to GrapheneOS. As with Pixel support, users will be able to install GrapheneOS on hardware that ships with a different OS, with a reference to Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and a device that has yet to be released. The most likely candidate discussed is OnePlus, though recent bootloader-security changes make that uncertain; GrapheneOS also says it isn't Fairphone. The post stresses that the collaboration is serious and ongoing with a major Android OEM. If realized, this would expand GrapheneOS beyond Pixel while preserving its security-first philosophy.

Google to Open India's First AI Hub and Data Centre in Visakhapatnam, Boosting Digital Growth

October 15, 2025, 3:01 AM EDT. Leaders across government and industry welcomed Google's plan to invest ₹87,520-crore (USD 15 billion) to establish India's first AI hub and data centre in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. PM Narendra Modi called it a milestone for a more Viksit Bharat, emphasizing AI for All and expanded digital services. Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan highlighted Visakhapatnam as a catalyst for youth, farmers, doctors, and entrepreneurs to access AI-powered tools. Google CEO Sundar Pichai said the hub would merge compute power, subsea connectivity, and clean energy to spur nationwide innovation. Partners like Adani, Bharti Airtel, and others will add GPU/TPU infrastructure, a subsea gateway, and local data-centre capabilities, underpinning India's path to scalable AI and global tech leadership.

Google updates Search and Discover with collapsible ads and AI-powered features

October 15, 2025, 2:59 AM EDT. Google is rolling out updates to Search and Discover, adding AI-powered features and new navigation. A new Hide sponsored results button lets you collapse ads on Search (the Sponsored label stays visible as you scroll). Text ads still exist, with a cap of four per group, and Sponsored labels will also appear for Shopping ads as "Sponsored Products." A new What's New button in sports search surfaces trending updates. On mobile, the Discover feed gains an AI-powered feature that shows short previews of trending topics with expandable details. The changes begin in the US (and other regions soon), with broader rollouts ahead.

Power Integrations and Nvidia partner to accelerate 800 VDC power transition with PowiGaN for AI data centers

October 15, 2025, 2:58 AM EDT. Power Integrations is collaborating with Nvidia to accelerate the transition to 800 VDC power architectures using its PowiGaN gallium-nitride technology. Unveiled at the 2025 OCP Global Summit in San Jose, the collaboration aims to support megawatt-scale racks as AI workloads drive higher power demands. The approach promises simpler rack design, more efficient use of space, and reduced copper usage. Power Integrations notes that 1250 V and 1700 V PowiGaN devices are well suited for main and auxiliary power supplies in 800 VDC data centers, delivering the necessary efficiency, reliability and power density. The partnership underscores a broader push toward higher-voltage DC infrastructure to meet growing AI power requirements.

Gemini 3: The Most Powerful Front-End Development Model Yet

October 15, 2025, 2:57 AM EDT. Leak reveals Gemini 3 shines in front-end development and SVG generation, with stronger multimodal abilities. It can auto-generate its own intro webpage from a short prompt, render a black-hole visualization in Chrome, animate SVGs, and even compose an original piano piece. Netizens hail it as the best front-end/web development model yet, with two rumored variants: Gemini 3.0 Pro and Gemini 3.0 Flash. The Pro version reportedly uses MoE with trillions of parameters, a widened context window, built-in in-depth thinking mode, and native multimodality. In tests like ARC-AGI-2 and HLE, Gemini 3.0 Pro scored around 35% and 32.4%, outperforming GPT-5 (high) and Grok 4. Real-world tests also show strong programming and multimodal prowess.

Nothing Phone 4a: Leaks, Specs, Design, Price & Release Date in India

October 15, 2025, 2:56 AM EDT. Nothing Phone 4a is the next rumored mid-range from Nothing, with a potentially 6.82-inch AMOLED display, 120Hz refresh rate, and 3000 nits peak brightness, protected by Panda Glass. The design reportedly brings a new rear pattern and keeps Nothing's iconic Glyph interface. Camera setup is rumored to include a 64MP main, 50MP telephoto and 8MP ultra-wide, plus a 32MP front camera. Under the hood, expect Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, and Android 16 with up to three major OS updates. In India, launch is tipped for January 2026 or possibly late Q1 2026, with a price range around ₹26,000-₹30,000. Note: all details are leaks and unconfirmed until Nothing officially announces the device.

Windows 10 end of support today: how to get a free extra year with ESU

October 15, 2025, 2:55 AM EDT. Microsoft has moved Windows 10 to end-of-life, but your PC can still run it for now. The downside: security updates stop by default. You have three options to stay protected: upgrade to Windows 11 for free if your device is compatible; buy a new PC with Windows 11 (or switch to another OS); or enroll in the free path for Extended Security Updates (ESU) to get one more year of security updates. Here's how to enroll: Step 1 – ensure your PC is up to date. Step 2 – sign in with an administrator account. Step 3 – check whether you can upgrade to Windows 11. Step 4 – go to Settings > Update & Security and click the Enroll Now link to join ESU. If you don't see it, update Windows 10 first. ESU is a temporary resilience while you transition to a supported OS.

Windows 10 End of Life: ESU enrollment, upgrade options, and Windows 11 considerations

October 15, 2025, 2:54 AM EDT. With Windows 10 reaching end of support, businesses and individuals should consider Extended Security Updates (ESU) enrollment to receive security patches until 2026-10-13, even though the enrollment deadline is not strictly fixed. The last ESU updates will arrive before the consumer end date, giving time to plan a migration. If you're on an older PC, you may evaluate Windows 11 upgradability carefully; while some 2016-2017 devices run it with ease, older hardware can encounter driver issues. Microsoft cautions against forcing the upgrade on unsupported PCs, though you can manually install newer Windows 11 builds to stay secure. Overall, Windows 11 offers improved security, battery life, and a cleaner interface, making a transition worth considering if hardware supports it.

Palmer Luckey previews Anduril's AI-powered EagleEye headwear ahead of AUSA reveal

October 15, 2025, 2:53 AM EDT. Palmer Luckey previews Anduril's AI-powered EagleEye helmet and digitally-enhanced eyewear, with roughly 100 units headed to select U.S. Army personnel in Q2 next year. Luckey told reporters that the system is an extremely powerful capability that will get cheaper over time as production scales, ahead of a major reveal at the AUSA conference. EagleEye fuses a rugged helmet with AI-enabled optics and battlefield data to boost troops' situational awareness. This marks a continued shift from Luckey's Oculus roots to national-security tech, following Anduril's rise as a defense-focused startup. The program echoes past Army efforts like the IVAS project, underscoring a broader push to integrate wearable hardware, AI, and real-time decision support on the battlefield.

Federal agency investigates Tesla door-handle failures amid family lockouts and redesign talks

October 15, 2025, 2:52 AM EDT. A Florida mother recounts a terrifying moment when her 2014 Tesla Model S locked with a child inside after the key fob and phone were left in the car, forcing her to break a window. The incident highlights concerns about door handles and key-detection systems. Federal investigators are examining 2021 Model Y vehicles and related complaints, prompting a potential redesign of the mechanism. Bloomberg found about 140 complaints in the NHTSA database of doors that get stuck or fail to open. Tesla has not publicly responded, while families seek answers and safer solutions before more children are affected.

One UI 8 rollout paused for Galaxy S22 as Samsung unveils October 2025 software roadmap

October 15, 2025, 2:50 AM EDT. Samsung's October 2025 software rollout roadmap shows a continued shift from monthly to quarterly (and then biannual) updates. The headline indicates the One UI 8 rollout for the Galaxy S22 is paused for now. Premium devices will still receive monthly security patches for a period, while many mid-range and budget models move to quarterly updates to maintain security. The plan aims to deliver at least two new security patches within about six months to extend device lifespans. The roadmap covers Galaxy Z Fold/Flip, Galaxy S23-S25 lines, and broader A/M/F/Tab series, detailing which models stay on monthly updates and which switch to quarterly schedules. Users of affected devices should monitor the official Samsung roadmap for exact timing and eligibility.

Samsung halts One UI 8 rollout for Galaxy S22 amid possible firmware issue

October 15, 2025, 2:49 AM EDT. Samsung has paused the global rollout of One UI 8.0 to the Galaxy S22 lineup after starting in early October. The reasons remain unconfirmed, but the move typically signals a firmware issue and a temporary rollback. Samsung reportedly removed the One UI 8 update from update servers, restoring devices to One UI 7 for now. If you've already updated, there's no simple revert-owners must wait for a hotfix or resume of the rollout. Early impressions on affected devices have been mixed, with no widespread issues observed yet. The update path remains Android 16-based, with One UI 8.5 planned next year for the S22 family. New hardware options include the Galaxy S25/S26 lineup on the horizon.

Google Gemini 3.0 Launch Rumor: October 22, 2025 Leak Points to Marketing Milestone

October 15, 2025, 2:48 AM EDT. Rumors suggest Google's next AI model, Gemini 3.0, could launch on October 22, 2025, according to a leaked table shared on X (formerly Twitter). Google has not publicly announced any specifics about Gemini 3.0. The leak comes from an account called @chatgpt21 and follows arrivals of Gemini 2.5, 2.5 Pro, Flash, and Flash-Lite. The document's authenticity is unverified, though editor-at-large Mishaal Rahman said it appears genuine. The note ties the date to a Marketing milestone and a potential public rollout on a Wednesday. Officials are expected to comment in the coming week if a formal announcement is planned. Readers should treat this as unconfirmed until Google confirms details.

Nothing Phone (3a) Lite rumored to launch this year with affordable specs

October 15, 2025, 2:47 AM EDT. The Nothing saga continues as rumors point to a Nothing Phone (3a) Lite arriving before year-end. The Lite variant is expected to come in a single configuration-8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage-likely offered in Black and White. As the lightest member of the Phone (3a) family, it would trim specs and price to appeal to the budget-conscious crowd, possibly resembling the Phone (2a) with a simpler camera setup. If true, it would push for a global launch before year-end and could set the stage for a broader Phone (4a) lineup in 2026. Rumors suggest a 5,000mAh battery, a 6.7-inch display, and a dynamic refresh rate.

Pixel Watch 4 earns unprecedented repairability with iFixit 9/10

October 15, 2025, 2:46 AM EDT. Google's Pixel Watch 4 flips the script on tiny-device repairs. iFixit awarded the smartwatch a groundbreaking 9/10 for repairability, thanks to a glue-free design and screws instead of fixed adhesives. The exterior two screws feature their own O-rings to preserve IP68 water/dust resistance, while the interior layout uses a straightforward mix of screws, connectors, and ribbons. The result: easier disassembly, fewer traps, and the potential for DIY or quick official service. This contrasts with most smartwatches that rely on glue and hard-to-reach components. The Pixel Watch 4's circular chassis and gasket strategy echo dive-watch thinking, and if spare parts follow, it could redefine repairability for wearables. The earlier Pixel Watch 2 scored 4/10 due to adhesive hindrances.

Belkin PowerGrip: magnetic iPhone camera grip with built-in 15W charger

October 15, 2025, 2:44 AM EDT. Belkin's PowerGrip combines a camera-style grip and a built-in 15W battery for long iPhone shoots. It attaches magnetically and adapts to portrait or landscape orientation, with a physical shutter button that works over Bluetooth. The 15W pack can charge your iPhone up to 1.6x, and a retractable USB-C cable plus a second USB-C port keeps gear powered or lets you charge other devices. A 1/4-inch tripod thread lets you mount it on a tripod, and it doubles as a phone stand. All of this is offered at $80.

Nothing Phone (3a) Lite tipped as next Nothing phone with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage

October 15, 2025, 2:43 AM EDT. Rumors suggest Nothing Phone (3a) Lite could be Nothing's next smartphone, not the (4a) Pro. Tipster claims it will offer 8GB RAM + 128GB storage and come in Black and White. A global launch this year is possible, with India also in scope. The chatter aligns with earlier hints from leakers like Sudhanshu Ambhore and Yogesh Brar about a Lite or T-branding at the cheaper end of the lineup. CEO Carl Pei previously implied the Phone (3) may be the final mainline, but the file suggests Nothing could again expand the family. Expect more details as certification and insider posts continue.

Can an AI data center be green? Prometheus Hyperscale blends renewables, fossil fuels, and future modular reactors

October 15, 2025, 2:40 AM EDT. Prometheus Hyperscale aims to build a flagship AI data center in southwest Wyoming with on-site power, water recycling, efficient cooling, and heat reuse to grow microgreens and farm shrimp. The site sits amid solar and wind projects; potential customers include Google, Meta, and OpenAI. While the vision is 'Sustainable infrastructure for the age of AI,' Thornock says the near-term power will come largely from fossil fuels and Wyoming natural gas, with plans to transition to small modular reactors in the long run. The project highlights the tension between being green and meeting energy realities, and points to ongoing policy and industry interest in cleaner AI infrastructure.

RGTI Stock Surges on JPMorgan Quantum Push: What Investors Should Know

October 15, 2025, 2:39 AM EDT. Rigetti Computing's stock (RGTI) surged about 25% after JPMorgan Chase announced a $10 billion Security and Resiliency Initiative spanning 27 industries, including quantum computing. The news boosted the quantum sector and lifted peers such as D-Wave Quantum and IonQ. The rally aligns with a broader argument that RGTI could see substantial upside if the sector gains commercial traction. However, a 185% monthly gain underscores valuation risk and potential profit-taking in a still-evolving field. Investors should weigh institutional interest against timeline uncertainty for quantum commercialization. For risk management, consider diversified strategies like the High Quality Portfolio or the RV Portfolio, which target steadier returns and reduced single-name exposure compared with holding a lone stock like RGTI.

Tesla Cybertruck Slumps in Q3 2025 as SpaceX and xAI Fleet Orders Surface

October 15, 2025, 2:38 AM EDT. The Cybertruck posted weak Q3 2025 results: 5,385 units sold, down 63% year over year, with total around 16,000 for 2025 so far. Cox Automotive data underscore a split between retail demand and fleet activity. The original half-million-unit vision has faded, and the broader EV pickup market remains soft. Yet reports indicate SpaceX and xAI have received hundreds of Cybertrucks for fleets, a pattern that could help move inventory even as consumer demand stalls. As the year forecasts trend lower, the debate centers on whether fleet buys from Musk-linked companies can compensate for weak consumer demand and how this affects Tesla's long-term strategy for the Cybertruck.

Apple's M5 Upgrades Rumored for iPad Pro, Vision Pro, and 14-Inch MacBook Pro This Week

October 15, 2025, 2:37 AM EDT. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says Apple will update several devices this week via press releases on the Apple Newsroom, not an event. Expected updates: iPad Pro powered by the M5 with at least 12GB RAM and a minor design change (no back "iPad Pro" inscription); rumors of two front cameras remain unconfirmed. Geekbench suggests the M5 has a 9-core CPU and up to 12% faster multi-core and 36% faster GPU versus M4. The Vision Pro may get an M5 and possibly an R2 chip on a 2nm process, plus a Dual Knit Band and a Space Black color; Wi-Fi 6 remains. A base 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5 is reportedly ready for launch, ahead of higher-end Pro/Max models. Also notes ongoing questions about a next-gen Vision Pro and Vision Air.

Harvard's AI Teaching Playbook: Traffic-Light Rules and AI as a Thinking Partner

October 15, 2025, 2:36 AM EDT. At Harvard's HILT conference, educators outlined a practical playbook for integrating generative AI into teaching. The aim is AI as a thinking partner that enhances deep learning, not a substitute. A Harvard Kennedy School lecturer introduced a traffic-light framework: Green permits broad AI use, Yellow allows limited use, and Red bans AI for tasks where learning objectives could be compromised. Red-light tasks often precede in-class debates where students defend arguments; green-light tasks encourage experimentation with AI tutors and tools. Other innovations include AI-facilitated oral exams, and a two-stage assignment where students first create a data visualization in Excel, then use AI to enhance it and finally audit the output for accuracy. Students also co-develop class AI policies to boost transparency and ownership.

Samsung halts Android 16 rollout for Galaxy S22 after just one week

October 15, 2025, 2:34 AM EDT. Samsung has paused the Android 16/ One UI 8 rollout for the Galaxy S22 after just one week, pulling the OTA and reverting handsets to One UI 7. The pause follows reports of issues, including battery drain, though no clear pattern has emerged. The update had begun in Europe and had reached other regions such as India, with the US not yet included. Samsung has not issued an official explanation. Android 16 is expected to be the final major upgrade for the 2022 flagship, which Samsung promised four OS upgrades and five years of security patches at launch. The incident highlights the challenges of early firmware releases and regional rollout variability.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A – How the OG Switch version stacks up to Switch 2

October 15, 2025, 2:33 AM EDT. Pokémon Legends: Z-A arrives on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 with reviews that appear based on the Switch 2 build. As of release, Metacritic sits around 81, but reviewers note there's little public data on how the game runs on the original Switch. The Switch 2's technical leap lets it run ports with fewer compromises, making it the likely superior version, while the OG Switch version is presumed to be more constrained. Critics like Eurogamer and GameRadar report visuals and frame rate vary, with Eurogamer saying the Switch 2 looks substantially better and GameRadar praising Butterfree smooth performance for Switch 2. IGN published an incomplete review because the Switch 1 version wasn't playable pre-release. In short: there are clear differences between versions.

The AI Boom Lifts Markets but Masks Economic Weakness, Analysts Warn

October 15, 2025, 2:32 AM EDT. Global AI spending is projected to reach $375 billion in 2025 and exceed $500 billion by 2026, fueling GDP growth and market optimism. But economists warn the AI surge could mask underlying weakness, with Deutsche Bank noting that GDP and earnings gains are tied to a wave of investment. Unlike the dot-com era, today's AI giants generate cash flow, yet funding the infrastructure may rely on debt, as firms like Oracle, Meta and CoreWeave raise capital for data centers. Critics warn the S&P 500 is skewed, increasing vulnerability if AI-driven growth falters. Optimists see long-term upside from the AI build-out across chips, data centers, and the digital grid-the 4th Industrial Revolution.

Amazon Canada shoppers get $142 off Apple Watch Series 10 for Prime members

October 15, 2025, 2:31 AM EDT. Amazon Canada shoppers can grab the Apple Watch Series 10 at a Prime member-exclusive price with $142 off. The latest smartwatch boosts health tracking with a larger display and thinner, lighter design, plus ECG, heart rate and sleep metrics. The built-in Workout app delivers advanced metrics, while features like Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS bolster safety. It's water-resistant to 50 metres and available in multiple sizes and colours, with crack- and dust-resistant durability for daily wear. Reviewers praise its comfort, longer battery life, and a brighter, smoother display, though one note mentions a screen scratch risk and suggests a protective case. Act fast before the deal ends; Prime members only.

Walmart and OpenAI to bring ChatGPT-powered shopping to customers

October 15, 2025, 2:28 AM EDT. Walmart is teaming up with OpenAI to let shoppers use ChatGPT to purchase items, with the feature described as coming soon. The partnership aims to move beyond a traditional search bar toward an AI-powered shopping experience, integrating ChatGPT into Walmart's online platform. The move positions Walmart in a competitive race with Amazon and its Rufus shopping assistant, and follows Walmart's broader push to embed AI into daily operations. The deal also raises questions about privacy and potential glitches when AI suggests unrelated or off-target items. Analysts note the partnerships form a web of circulating investments among major AI and chip players. If successful, the collaboration could expand OpenAI's reach and bring a mass market AI shopping experience to everyday purchases.

Leak hints Google Gemini 3.0 could launch on October 22

October 15, 2025, 2:23 AM EDT. A leaked image of Google's internal milestone calendar suggests Gemini 3.0 could be announced on October 22, following the release of Gemini 2.5 Pro. The post shows milestones from internal testing to an official announcement, though it's unclear if availability would align with the reveal. The credibility of the leak is questionable, as the calendar image lacks a traceable digital trail. Google has signaled continued development of its AI model family, with 2.5 Pro having introduced more advanced post-training capabilities. If authentic, the October date would mark a milestone for the Gemini line; if not, a formal reveal may still be forthcoming soon. FTC disclosure noted but not essential to the tech emphasis.

Fitbit Inspire 3 deal drops to $79.93, a bargain entry into Fitbit's ecosystem

October 15, 2025, 2:22 AM EDT. A new Amazon deal lowers the Fitbit Inspire 3 to about $79.93, from $99.95, making the humble tracker a strong bargain for entry into Fitbit's ecosystem. Key strengths include a color AMOLED display, accurate sleep tracking with a Sleep Score, reliable steps and Active Zone Minutes tracking, and onboard SpO2 and temperature sensors that unlock the Health Metrics dashboard. It lacks built-in GPS (uses your phone) and the small screen isn't ideal for notifications. Most granular insights require Fitbit Premium. Still, for an affordable, comfortable tracker with solid core features, this deal is a smart buy for bargain hunters.

Walmart and OpenAI partner to enable purchases directly in ChatGPT

October 15, 2025, 2:20 AM EDT. Walmart has struck a deal with OpenAI to let shoppers complete purchases directly through ChatGPT, signaling a new era of in-chat shopping. The collaboration builds on OpenAI's Instant Checkout initiative announced in September, initially supporting single-item purchases from Etsy as a test. The move positions Walmart alongside its Sparky AI shopping assistant and underscores a broader push toward multimedia, personalized, and contextual shopping experiences as consumers increasingly discover products via AI chat. Financial terms were not disclosed, but OpenAI has signaled it will charge merchants for transactions. The deal highlights the growing role of AI in retail and could reshape how shoppers find and buy items online.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang hand-delivers DGX Spark to Elon Musk at SpaceX Starbase

October 15, 2025, 2:19 AM EDT. Nvidia's DGX Spark portable AI supercomputer was hand-delivered by CEO Jensen Huang to Elon Musk at SpaceX's Starbase in Texas, marking another milestone in Nvidia's collaboration with leading tech pioneers. The meeting occurred as SpaceX prepared for the 11th test of its Starship rocket. According to Nvidia's blog, the compact unit-designed for developers, researchers, and creators-delivers up to 1 petaflop of performance and weighs about 1.2 kilograms, packing the Grace Blackwell Superchip, 128GB unified memory, and fast connectivity via NVLink-C2C. Nvidia notes the DGX Spark builds on the OpenAI collaboration and comes preloaded with Nvidia's AI software stack for local model training and inference. Availability begins October 15 through Nvidia and partners.

What I Learned Watching a Humanoid Robot Do Laundry – Insights on Figure AI and the Robotics Boom

October 15, 2025, 2:18 AM EDT. An on-the-ground look at a humanoid robot attempting to load laundry exposes real limits even as the AI and robotics boom accelerates. At Figure AI's headquarters, the Figure 03 debuts amid hype and a $39 billion valuation after a $1 billion funding round. Eyewitness reporting contrasts with glossy videos, suggesting the robots aren't yet as reliable as promo material implies. The piece uses AI scaling laws to ask whether humanoid workers could arrive in the workforce within years, not decades, while highlighting the optimism fueling billions into the field. Read the full feature for deeper context and perspective on the robotics race.

Microsoft ends Windows 10 support, but millions keep using it

October 15, 2025, 2:17 AM EDT. Windows 10 is officially reaching end of support, but the OS remains deeply popular a decade after launch. Despite Windows 11 overtaking it in usage only recently, Microsoft is still enforcing an end-of-support cutoff and offering limited extended security updates for consumers for another year. The change affects those who can't upgrade or choose not to, including businesses that may still rely on Windows 10. StatCounter puts usage around 40%, with PC gamers on Steam representing about 30%. A key driver is hardware: Windows 11's higher requirements – including TPM and newer CPUs – have left many machines behind. As a result, millions will stay on Windows 10 while awaiting new hardware or future upgrades, with Microsoft leaning into AI features for the platform.

Waymo hires Tesla audio engineer to lead in-car audio and infotainment

October 15, 2025, 2:16 AM EDT. Waymo has poached Tesla audio engineer Nikhil Satish to become the Technical Leader of Audio Systems at Waymo. Satish announced on LinkedIn that he is starting a new role overseeing the in-car audio and infotainment experience. His career spans NVIDIA, Amazon, and Tesla (joined 2021). At Tesla, he led the audio engineering for the Cybertruck and later contributed to the Semi truck and humanoid robot programs. The move underscores how Waymo is expanding beyond core autonomous driving tech to enhance the in-cabin experience as passengers look to entertainment and information while on the road.

FIU researchers deploy blockchain-based federated learning to guard AI from data poisoning

October 15, 2025, 2:15 AM EDT. Florida International University researchers are tackling data poisoning attacks on AI with a blockchain-based federated learning (BCFL) framework. Led by Dr. Hadi Amini, a FIU associate professor, the team of 10 Ph.D. students demonstrates how poisoned data can mislead AI systems-even causing autonomous vehicles to misread traffic lights. BCFL leverages decentralized blockchain tech so cameras and sensors across devices can agree on decisions rather than rely on a single source. If one input is poisoned, others can reject it, likened to referees reviewing a foul. The approach adds multi-layer verification before data reaches a car's system. Real-world testing with industry partners is underway, with full deployment anticipated in coming years.

Louisiana Gov. Landry Bans State Use of AI Tools Tied to Hostile Nations

October 15, 2025, 2:14 AM EDT. Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry signed an executive order prohibiting public schools, universities, and state agencies from using AI tools developed or operated by hostile foreign governments. The order bars new AI contracts through Dec. 15 unless approved by the chief information officer, who will set security and data policies. Agencies must review existing AI contracts and verify datasets are accurate and free of sensitive information. The move mirrors national efforts to curb foreign access to U.S. data and follows bans by the U.S. Commerce Department and other states. Landry says the measure protects state institutions from dangerous influence and empowers the Office of Technology Services to enforce compliance across all state entities and higher education systems.

HONOR MagicPad 3 review: premium 13.3-inch tablet that almost nails the pad partner

October 15, 2025, 2:13 AM EDT. The HONOR MagicPad 3 is the brand's largest tablet yet, packed with premium hardware and an expansive 13.3-inch display. It delivers color accuracy with DCI-P3, supports 1.07 billion colors, and carries IMAX Enhanced certification, aided by a slim bezel and a bright LCD panel. Paired with the Magic-Pencil 3, you get pixel-perfect precision for photo editing in apps like VSCO, Snapseed, and Lightroom for Android, plus smooth video work using CapCut or Canva. A single USB-C port can read external SSDs, making mobile editing feasible, though software limits prevent desktop-grade workflows. It's great for splicing and color-grading, but isn't a full laptop replacement yet.

Apple explains why iPhone 17's selfie camera changed so much – Center Stage and silicon-powered upgrades

October 15, 2025, 2:12 AM EDT. Apple's iPhone 17 introduces a drastically redesigned selfie camera centered on Center Stage, with executives explaining the move was driven by user friction-from arms-length selfies to awkward angles. In interviews with camera software chief Jon McCormack and product manager Megan Nash, Apple cites years of work and the necessary silicon to make the camera understand what you're trying to capture and adjust automatically. Key tech details include the high-speed Apple Camera Interface (ACI) tying the sensor to the A19/A19 Pro chip, the larger sensor and overscan area enabling improved stabilization and video quality, and automatic Action mode for selfie videos. The goal is to make the camera invisible to users, keeping shots in portrait orientation and simplifying framing even in motion.

LineageOS 23 Officially Released for Xiaomi Based on Android 16 (Primetime Release)

October 15, 2025, 2:11 AM EDT. LineageOS has officially released its first mainline build based on Android 16, known as the Primetime Release, numbered 23.0 since Google hasn't published QPR1 yet. Built on Android 16 (QPR0) with public security patches, patches may lag due to Google's cadence. Core upgrades include OpenZFS build optimizations, migration to Soong (Android.bp), and updated apps like SeedVault and Etar. WebView now uses Chromium 140.0.7339.51, with added VirtIO virtualization support. Charging controls have been refined. The Aperture Camera app is rewritten, adding JPEG Ultra HDR, RAW, and RAW+JPEG support with new UI indicators. Release improves device longevity, including the Xiaomi 9T.

Pebble's comeback: first smartwatches ship as Appstore relaunches

October 15, 2025, 2:09 AM EDT. Pebble's revival moves forward as founder Eric Migicovsky confirms the first batch of new smartwatches will ship to pre-orders this month. Production kicked off at the end of September, with nearly 3,000 white Pebble 2 Duos en route to fulfillment centers; black models follow after a brief delay. The revival is paired with the official relaunch of the Pebble Appstore, now serving both new devices and Pebble's vast legacy ecosystem. The Rebble community, long keeping the legacy platform alive, is being officially compensated to maintain the store, underscoring Pebble's community-first ethos. The device aims for a simple, uncluttered experience with an e-paper display, physical buttons, and multi-day battery life, prioritizing usability over health sensors. The team is eager to test the Pebble 2 Duo and Pebble Time 2.

Save 43% on the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Tablet – £114.99 with a 2-year guarantee

October 15, 2025, 2:08 AM EDT. Final hours to save 43% on the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablet, now £114.99 (was £199.99). This kid-friendly tablet is built to survive drops up to five feet and comes with a bumper case, plus a two-year worry-free guarantee. It shines with robust parental controls that let you manage screen time and which apps, games and videos your child can access. Amazon also bundles free and ad-free children's books, games, educational apps and videos, plus 32 GB of storage (expandable via microSD) for hundreds of titles. Designed for ages 3-7, it blends learning and play in a durable, kid-focused package-perfect for quiet time, travel, or daily discovery.

Nvidia Stock Dips as AI Rivalry Grows; Top Analyst Sees Strong Upside

October 15, 2025, 2:07 AM EDT. Nvidia (NVDA) stock fell about 3.5% after a session driven by geopolitical jitters and rising AI-infrastructure competition. Investors weighed China transport ministry probes and Broadcom's 10-GW AI accelerator partnership with OpenAI, underscoring a hotter race for AI computing than ever. Yet Piper Sandler's Harsh Kumar remains optimistic, citing robust demand outpacing manufacturing capacity and clear non-circular financing for NVDA's customer investments, including OpenAI and others. Kumar emphasizes the $100B OpenAI deal is a strategic stake, not contingent on investments, and frames Nvidia as enabling hyperscale AI factories. Management suggests every GW of AI infrastructure could be worth $35B-$40B in TAM, implying meaningful upside with an Overweight rating and a $225 target.

Google to Build Its Largest AI Hub Outside the US in Vizag

October 15, 2025, 2:06 AM EDT. Google on Tuesday announced its second-largest AI hub outside the US, to be built in Vizag, Andhra Pradesh. The $15 billion investment over five years will deploy Google's full AI stack and expand a data-centre campus in partnership with AdaniConneX and Airtel, delivering gigawatt-scale compute capacity for Indian businesses. The project includes a new international subsea cable landing in Visakhapatnam to boost internet speed and global connectivity. The hub, part of Google's global network of AI centres in 12 countries, marks its biggest investment in India and comes after signing an MoU with the Andhra Pradesh government. Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian said it will scale to multiple gigawatts, reinforcing India's digital connectivity and supporting PM Modi's Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

DJI Appeals Court Ruling on Pentagon 'Chinese Military Company' Label After Most Allegations Rejected

October 15, 2025, 2:05 AM EDT. DJI is appealing a D.C. Circuit ruling that kept the DoD's designation as a Chinese Military Company on the company, even though the district court rejected most of the government's claims. The court upheld only two factors: DJI's NETC status and the existence of dual-use applications for its products, with no evidence of actual military use. The decision preserves the label, affecting federal contracts and private partnerships despite DJI's insistence that it operates independently of the Chinese government. With DJI controlling a large share of the U.S. consumer drone market, the case underscores ongoing regulatory pressure on the broader drone industry and policy debates around national security and supply chains.

NASA workers on Artemis missions to stay on the job during shutdown with SpaceX and Blue Origin

October 15, 2025, 2:04 AM EDT. NASA tells employees working on Artemis missions with SpaceX and Blue Origin to remain on duty during the shutdown furlough, with pay deferred until after reopening. Staff should record their time. About 15,000 federal workers are expected to be furloughed, while roughly 3,000 will continue, part-time or full-time, to support planned operations including the ISS and active satellite work. NASA says Artemis operations will be sustained during any funding lapse, drawing on contractor staff for those projects. The notices underscore the role of SpaceX and Blue Origin in Artemis and the broader goal of lunar exploration with future Mars missions.

Honor Magic8 Ultra Rumored to Feature Triple Rear Cameras and 200MP Telephoto Sensor

October 15, 2025, 2:03 AM EDT. Rumors out of China suggest the Honor Magic8 Ultra will stick with a triple rear camera array, mirroring the Magic7 Pro. Tipster Smart Pikachu reiterates that the Ultra will sport a new 200MP sensor for the telephoto camera and use an OmniVision sensor for the main rear camera. The Magic8 and Magic8 Pro are expected to launch later this month in China, while the Magic8 Ultra and a Magic8 Mini are tipped for a 2026 debut. All variants are said to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC.

Android Auto 15.2 Bug Breaks Taskbar Widgets; Fix Pending as Google Investigates

October 15, 2025, 1:58 AM EDT. Android Auto 15.2 introduces a bug that hides taskbar widgets and reorients the bar to a left, vertical layout. The issue surfaced in late September during the staged rollout, with many users on Pixel and Samsung devices reporting that toggling Taskbar widgets does not restore the elements, and the UI briefly redraws before reverting. Some workarounds-clearing cache/data or reverting to older builds-offer only temporary relief. Google has opened an investigation but has not provided a timeline. A clearer path is expected with the Android Auto 15.4 beta, but for now users should wait for a stable update or temporarily roll back. The episode shows how even polished interfaces can stumble around core UI elements.

Google blocks Pixel IMS VoLTE hack; developer releases workaround

October 15, 2025, 1:57 AM EDT. Google's October 2025 Pixel update blocked the 'shell' workaround used by the Pixel IMS app to enable VoLTE and VoWiFi on unsupported carriers, breaking functionality for importers. The patch targeted an internal API call that overrides carrier config – a capability Pixel IMS exploited via the open-source tool Shizuku to run with elevated shell privileges. In response, the developer released a new workaround that bypasses the restriction by laundering the API call through another component so the system doesn't detect it as coming from shell. The episode highlights the ongoing tug-of-war between device flexibility, carrier support, and platform security, and how developers react when patches close holes.

Experts warn about kids getting smartphones too early – how to handle it

October 15, 2025, 1:56 AM EDT. New Pew Research Center findings show most parents of kids ages 11-12 report their child has a smartphone, even as many experts urge delaying social media access until about age 16. The study highlights how smartphones are just part of a broader rise in kids' screen time: 85% watch YouTube, including more youngsters under 2 than in 2020. While 86% of parents have rules for screen use, only 19% consistently enforce them, and 80% worry that the harms of social media outweigh the benefits. The article offers practical approaches: stay in touch without a smartphone via a dumbphone or a child-friendly watch; use a family device that's shared with a parent; and befriend other parents to coordinate norms. The takeaway: rethink techniques for managing kids' tech while keeping them connected.

Honor appoints Nicholas Tse as Future Technology Experience Officer and contrasts Magic8 Pro with iPhone 17 Pro in night photos

October 15, 2025, 1:55 AM EDT. Honor has appointed Nicholas Tse as its Future Technology Experience Officer ahead of the Oct 15 unveiling of the Magic8 lineup. The actor and multimedia icon features in a promo image that spotlights the device's AI self-evolution concept, designed to learn habits and optimize over time. Honor also released a promo video comparing the Magic8 Pro with the iPhone 17 Pro in high-altitude night shots captured from a helicopter, claiming the Magic8 Pro comes out on top. Teased specs include a 50 MP main camera, a 50 MP ultrawide, and a 200 MP periscope telephoto (85mm, f/2.6, 1/1.4" sensor).

NVIDIA Ships DGX Spark, the World's Smallest AI Supercomputer, to Elon Musk

October 15, 2025, 1:53 AM EDT. NVIDIA says its DGX Spark, billed as the world's smallest AI supercomputer, ships from Oct 15 for $3,999. CEO Jensen Huang delivered the first units to Elon Musk. DGX Spark bundles NVIDIA's entire AI stack-GPUs, CPUs, networking, CUDA libraries-into a compact system delivering a petaflop of AI performance with 128 GB of unified memory. Powered by the GB10 Blackwell Superchip, it can run inferences on models up to 200 billion parameters and fine-tune up to 70 billion parameters. It enables local AI agents and advanced software stacks. Pre-orders open on NVIDIA's site, with partners like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, MSI. Other tech giants-Microsoft, Google, Hugging Face, Meta-are testing DGX Spark to optimize their tools.

Zacks Analyst Blog Highlights IonQ, Rigetti, D-Wave, and IBM in Quantum Equity Moves

October 15, 2025, 1:52 AM EDT. Zacks highlights the latest moves by leading quantum firms IonQ, Rigetti Computing, D-Wave Quantum, and IBM as Q3 approaches. Firms boosted liquidity through equity offerings in June-July to extend runways amid rising R&D and commercialization costs, signaling a long-term capital play rather than short-term profits. Milestones include Rigetti Computing's 36-qubit multi-chip quantum computer and IBM's deployment of the Quantum System Two at RIKEN in Japan, plus Xanadu's on-chip, error-resistant photonic qubit. Partnerships grew with Quantinuum's new collaborations and IBM's hybrid quantum-classical initiatives. For investors, momentum centers on strategic progress, such as IonQ's Tempo system achieving #AQ 64 and its acquisitions of Oxford Ionics and a deal to acquire Vector Atomic, expanding sensing and PNT capabilities.

iPhone 17 Preorders Surge as Global Smartphone Shipments Rise Amid Tariffs

October 15, 2025, 1:50 AM EDT. Global smartphone shipments rose 2.6% in Q3 2025, per IDC, signaling resilience despite tariffs. IDC data show the quarter was led by premium devices, with iPhone 17 preorder momentum outpacing last year and Apple selling 58.6 million iPhones (+2.9%). Samsung remained the market leader with 61.4 million units (19% share), driven by Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7. Total shipments reached 322.7 million, up from 314.6 million a year earlier. The trend underscores ongoing demand for high-end phones amid economic strain, fueled by financing options, aggressive trade-ins, and other measures that remove purchase friction, even as tariffs persist.

LineageOS 23 Brings Android 16 to 100+ Devices Despite Google Delays

October 15, 2025, 1:49 AM EDT. LineageOS 23, built on Android 16, is rolling out to over 100 devices as a 23.0 release, sidestepping Google's incomplete QPR1 source. It carries core Android 16 features like predictive back navigation, enforced edge-to-edge display, and improved app adaptivity, plus support for advanced protection devices. The built-in apps see upgrades: Aperture adds Ultra HDR and RAW capture; Twelve gains shuffle mode and extended Jellyfin integration; Catapult arrives as an ad-free TV launcher. Under the hood, there's groundwork for QEMU virtualization and better mainline Linux kernel support. Some items-Material 3 Expressive, Desktop Mode-are limited due to reliance on QPR1. Security patches follow Google's risk-based cadence, while Pixel day-one status fades. Older 21.x exits; 23.0 roster grows.

Pokemon Legends: Z-A Review – Gameplay Impressions and Visuals

October 15, 2025, 1:48 AM EDT. Pokemon Legends: Z-A extends the Arceus-driven evolution with improved gameplay, graphics, exploration, and QoL features, making it a strong entry for newcomers and veterans alike. The title blends mechanics from across the series while maintaining a distinct rhythm that rewards real-time decisions rather than traditional turn-based turns. Players hold the ZL button to issue battle commands, then wait for replenishment as both sides act, with items boosting recharge and elevating the importance of the speed stat. Mega Pokémon return as a high-stakes boss mechanic, complemented by Plus Moves that trigger after time. While some may miss classic formulas, Z-A's emphasis on battling and experimentation demonstrates why the Legends format remains a vital evolution for the franchise.

Apple nearly matches Samsung in Q3 IDC market share as iPhone 17 drives premium phone demand

October 15, 2025, 1:45 AM EDT. IDC calls the third quarter's performance a remarkable achievement as Apple's iPhone 17 lineup helped narrow the gap with Samsung in the global smartphone market. IDC estimates Apple at 18.2% share vs Samsung's 19% for Q3, with Samsung selling 61.4 million units and Apple 58.6 million, a 2.9% year-over-year rise. Preorders for the iPhone 17, launched last month, outpaced last year's iPhone 16. Apple remains in close contention with Samsung, while premium devices-costing $800 to nearly $2,000-benefit from financing and trade-in programs. IDC senior researcher Nabila Popal credits not only hardware/software innovation but also financing models that reduce purchase friction, calling the upgrade cycle a "no-brainer" for consumers. Tariffs haven't yet visibly dented demand.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A vs. Pokémon Conquest: the weirdest Pokémon spinoff you should try

October 15, 2025, 1:44 AM EDT. While anticipation builds for the new Pokémon Legends: Z-A, this piece shines a spotlight on Pokémon Conquest, Koei Tecmo's 2012 DS spinoff that pairs Pokémon with Nobunaga's Ambition. Set in the fictional Ransei region, it blends a quirky, strategy-focused crossover where warlords recruit Pokémon and fight on grid maps. Battles emphasize tactical thinking, type matchups, and quick, diorama-like skirmishes reminiscent of Final Fantasy Tactics. The game's strength lies in its kingdom management and the odd-but-charming premise of uniting 17 realms under one banner. If you crave a bold departure from traditional JRPGs, this weirdest spinoff deserves a revival-or at least a modern port-on mobile or modern hardware.

Honor Magic 8 Pro tops iPhone 17 Pro in helicopter nightography test

October 15, 2025, 1:43 AM EDT. During a helicopter nightography test, the Honor Magic 8 Pro reportedly delivers clearer, brighter night shots than the iPhone 17 Pro, despite motion at altitude. Honor showcased a promo video comparing the two flagship cameras, highlighting AI-powered image processing and a 200MP AI telephoto night camera that aims to preserve detail in dim light and from long distances. Although both devices showed stability and sharpness, Honor claimed superior color richness and brightness in its night images. The company outlined the key imaging improvements for its sensor and processing pipeline. The Magic 8 Pro is set to launch tomorrow, with full specifications and performance details to be revealed in its official debut and video releases.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang addresses employees after Avinatan Or's release from Hamas captivity

October 15, 2025, 1:42 AM EDT. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang sent a heartfelt letter to NVIDIANs after the release of Avinatan Or, a Nvidia Israel research center engineer held captive by Hamas for 738 days. Or, kidnapped during the October 7 attack at the Nova music festival, was freed as part of a ceasefire and hostage deal. Huang emphasizes the company's unity with Or and his family, honoring the memory of colleagues who suffered losses, including Amit Chayut, and the broader grief across Nvidia's global staff. The note recognizes the pain endured by Jewish, Druze, and Arab families and calls for peace, healing, and resilience as Nvidia remains committed to safety and recovery for its people.

SpaceX's Starship rebounds with back-to-back tests as NASA targets Moon and Mars

October 15, 2025, 1:41 AM EDT. SpaceX notched a second straight success for Starship, the most powerful rocket, on Monday in South Texas, advancing from explosive test flights to controlled results. The flight marks the end of Starship Version 2 and the rise of Version 3, a larger prototype SpaceX aims to perfect for crewed missions to Mars and NASA's Moon landings in 2027. The mission also showcased Super Heavy's splashdown and the potential for a future booster catch at the launch tower. Starship lit up its six engines to deploy dummy Starlink satellites, hinting at orbital capabilities. Still, SpaceX cautions that real-world readiness remains distant, with technical risks and timelines tightening as the space race accelerates.

Android 15 Tablet with Gemini 2.0 AI, 10-Inch 120Hz Display, 12GB RAM

October 15, 2025, 1:38 AM EDT. Discover the Android 15 Tablet: a faster, cleaner, and more secure Android experience with effortless multitasking and enhanced privacy controls. The AI Tablet with Gemini 2.0 acts as your personal assistant for translation, summarization, scheduling, and learning, making it ideal for students, remote workers, and families. Enjoy an ultra-responsive 10-inch display with 120Hz touch sampling, plus 12GB RAM and 128GB ROM (expandable up to 2TB) to keep apps and files ready. Stay connected with 5G WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0. Comes with a 2-year warranty and 24/7 customer care for peace of mind. Deals from retailers like Overclockers UK, Scan Computers, and more-your next level of performance in a single powerful Android tablet.

JPMorgan backs Pattern: AI-powered e-commerce accelerator eyed for 29% upside

October 15, 2025, 1:37 AM EDT. JPMorgan initiated coverage on Pattern (PTRN) at an overweight rating with a $18 price target, signaling ~29% upside from recent levels. Pattern, an AI-powered e-commerce accelerator and leading Amazon reseller, debuted on the Nasdaq last month after pricing at $14. The stock hovered near $13.97 as of Monday. Analyst Doug Anmuth argues Pattern leverages proprietary tech, AI, and on-demand expertise to drive traffic, clicks/conversions, pricing, and inventory. With 46T+ e-commerce data points and a 200+ brand partner base across 60+ marketplaces in 100+ countries, Pattern could benefit from the secular shift toward e-commerce, which the bank estimates represents ~23.5% of 2025 global retail and a market over $4 trillion. Growth drivers include marketplace expansion, new brand partners, and deeper product selection. Other banks (Stifel, KeyBanc) also started coverage with $18 targets.

Tesla Cybertruck Sales Plummet in Q3 2025, Down 62% to 5,400 Units

October 15, 2025, 1:36 AM EDT. Tesla's Cybertruck continues to struggle, with Q3 sales falling about 62.6% year over year to roughly 5,400 units, according to Cox Automotive data. Through 2025, the stainless steel pickup has moved about 16,000 units, far behind its rival Ford F-150 Lightning, which cleared 10,000 in Q3. The slide hits even as the broader EV market set records ahead of the federal tax credit expiration. Analysts and executives have pointed to pricing, early skepticism, and branding-embodying Elon Musk as much as the vehicle itself-as factors dampening demand for the Cybertruck.

Ulanzi TH04 Desktop Camera Arm: A Space-Saving Tool for Home Studios

October 15, 2025, 1:35 AM EDT. Discover the Ulanzi TH04 desktop camera arm, a reliable, space-saving tool for anyone running a home studio or tight workspace. It can hold up to 2 kg overhead and uses a built-in ball head for versatile angles. The system uses modified Arca-Swiss plates for quick setup, though it accepts only Ulanzi plates. Ideal for tabletop product shoots, remote work, and small offices, this arm helps you avoid bulky tripods in cramped spaces. The included setup video demonstrates installation and multiple uses, making it easy to get stable, adjustable overhead shots without sacrificing room.

Best tablet deal: Save $175 on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10+

October 15, 2025, 1:34 AM EDT. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10+ is a powerful Android tablet with a wide feature set, making it a strong pick for productivity, media, and creativity. As of Oct. 14, Mashable reports a savings of $175, bringing the price to $824.99 from $999.99-an 18% discount. If you want Android flexibility over iPad, Samsung's tablet lineup delivers laptop-like versatility for work and play. This deal spotlights the Tab S10+ as a top option in the Android tablet space, with availability fluctuating, so act quickly to lock in the price through trusted retailers like Amazon.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A Shines on Nintendo Switch 2 with Real-Time Battles

October 15, 2025, 1:33 AM EDT. Pokémon Legends: Z-A reimagines the core series with real-time battles, autonomy for Pokémon actions, and a bold shift from traditional turn-based combat. Set in a region that nods to Kalos, it fuses the franchise's heritage with a modern, open-feel world. On the Nintendo Switch 2, the game runs with fewer bugs and bigger, more cinematic battles, offering a fresh ladder system from Z to A and a new cooldown-based resource model that replaces Power Points. Whether you chase the Mega Evolution spectacle or explore Lumiose City-inspired locales, PLZA feels like a generational leap for Pokémon.

Google to invest $15B to build AI hub and subsea gateway in India

October 15, 2025, 1:30 AM EDT. Google unveils a $15B AI hub project in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, including a 1GW data center and a new international subsea gateway. The plan, disclosed by Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian, marks Google's largest investment in India to date and the company's largest AI hub outside the U.S. The project, financed via Google's Indian subsidiary Raiden Infotech, will span three campuses and a new subsea cable landings to improve India's digital backbone. An independent analysis from Access Partnership suggests the hub could generate over $15B in U.S. GDP over five years through cloud and AI adoption, with benefits for inclusive growth and cross-border AI collaboration. The initiative aligns with government support from Andhra Pradesh and underscores plans for AI, startups, and digital infrastructure in India.

BYD Aims at Tesla with Ultra-Fast Charging and Global Expansion

October 15, 2025, 1:29 AM EDT. BYD is widening its assault on Tesla by pushing super-fast charging technology and broader global expansion. CNBC notes BYD aims to capture more of the EV ecosystem, not just vehicles, with charging that could deliver about 250 miles in roughly five minutes-faster than Tesla's current 200 miles in 15 minutes. The company reported 2024 revenue of 777 billion yuan, well ahead of Tesla's $97.7 billion, underscoring BYD's scale. In Europe, especially the UK, BYD has surged in monthly sales and opened a UK facility to service electric buses. Beyond cars, its chargers could support data centers and other industrial uses. However, access to the U.S. market remains hampered by Biden-era tariffs, limiting BYD's competitive edge there.

DJI Appeals U.S. Court Ruling Upholding Pentagon 'Chinese Military Company' Designation

October 15, 2025, 1:28 AM EDT. DJI has appealed a U.S. court decision that keeps it labeled a 'Chinese Military Company' by the Pentagon. After losing its lawsuit, the drone maker filed an appeal with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit on October 13. While the court rejected most DoD claims of ownership or control by the Chinese government, it also ruled that the DoD has broad authority to designate companies. DJI argues the designation harms its ability to win U.S. contracts and notes it maintains NETC status and that its products have dual-use applications, which are common in many industries. In a statement, DJI reaffirmed it operates independently with no government or military affiliation and said it will defend its integrity as it weighs further legal options.

Pavlov Media Expands Fiber Internet Construction in Will and Cook Counties, Illinois

October 15, 2025, 1:26 AM EDT. Pavlov Media is expanding its fiber network across Will and Cook Counties in Illinois, bringing reliable home and business broadband to thousands. Construction is underway as part of the company's ongoing infrastructure investment following recent builds in Monee, Peotone, and Manteno. Campus Communications Group (CCG) will manage planning, design, and construction for both counties. CEO Cory Douglas notes the expansion aims to strengthen communities by delivering fast, affordable connectivity for families, schools, and local businesses. Once complete, residents can expect up to 8 Gbps speeds, no data caps, no installation or modem fees, and 24/7 local technical support. Sign up at pavlovmedia.com/il for updates.

Why cable and satellite TV are courting cord-cutters with apps, bundles, and ad-supported options

October 15, 2025, 1:25 AM EDT. Cable and satellite providers are doubling down on cord-cutters with consumer-friendly moves. Spectrum and DirecTV recently pitched new strategies to add value rather than raise prices. Spectrum launched an app store that bundles ad-supported streaming apps such as Disney+, Hulu, AMC+, and ESPN with traditional channels, with ad-free options at a discount. DirecTV rolled out smaller "genre packages" and streaming bundles tailored to interests like sports, news, kids, and Spanish speakers. Early indicators show younger viewers responding, even as Spectrum reports quarterly losses from cord-cutting. The moves follow high-profile friction, including Disney's carriage disputes and CEO Bob Iger's push toward direct-to-consumer distribution. Taken together, these programs aim to slow the decline of traditional pay TV by offering choice, flexibility, and integrated streaming options.

WPP boosts AI marketing with $400mn Google deal

October 15, 2025, 1:24 AM EDT. WPP is expanding its AI marketing capabilities through a $400mn deal with Google, signaling a push toward data-driven campaigns and more efficient media spend. The partnership aims to blend Google's ad-tech with WPP's scale to accelerate experimentation, improve targeting, and deliver measurable results across channels. For clients, the agreement could unlock faster access to AI-powered creative testing, automated optimization, and tighter integration between media buying and performance analytics. As brands navigate a crowded digital landscape, the tie-up reinforces a trend toward large, tech-enabled collaborations that tilt toward measurable impact and agile marketing at scale.

AI Era Cybersecurity: Why Basic Internet Safety Isn't Enough and How Surfshark One Protects You

October 15, 2025, 1:23 AM EDT. As threats grow smarter and more human-sounding, basic tips aren't enough. AI-powered phishing, data leaks, and scams demand a holistic defense. Surfshark One offers an integrated toolkit: Surfshark Alert for breach-early warnings; Alternative ID and number to register anonymously with a temporary identity; Surfshark Antivirus with real-time and cloud-powered malware detection; and Surfshark VPN to build a private, encrypted tunnel. The suite protects personal data across sites, apps, and devices, deflects spam and robocalls, and reduces exposure from credential leaks. In short, a single paid package can provide multi-layer protection against modern, AI-driven threats.

Aura Expands Automated Data Removal to Help Delete Personal Information From the Internet

October 15, 2025, 1:22 AM EDT. Aura is expanding its online-safety tools to shrink your digital footprint. CEO Hari Ravichandran says the data broker market fuels scams, spam and identity theft, making manual privacy fixes impractical. Aura reports more than 92 million data removals, saving members an average of 21 hours each. New features automate removal of Google PII from search results, with choices on which links to remove. It supports automated removal from over 140 data brokers sites, and offers Assisted Removals for tougher sites that can complete a removal in as little as a minute. Clear self-service removal instructions and an Inbox Scan help map forgotten accounts and how services handle data. Aura also offers a free Data Broker Opt-Out tool.

Google TV Streamer Fourth Update Brings August 2025 Patch, Two Months Behind

October 15, 2025, 1:21 AM EDT. Google's fourth software update for the Google TV Streamer, labeled UTTK.250729.004, finally includes the August 2025 security patch – about two months behind the latest patch cycle. Since launch, the streamer has received three updates; 2025 patches arrived in February (from August 2024 to January 2025) and May (April 2025). The new release weighs 227 MB and shows a sparse changelog: 'Security Patch Updates to August 2025' plus other bug fixes and performance improvements. Critics note the slower update cadence for TVs vs. smartphones, and that this update arrives five months after the previous one. Users can install it via Settings > System > About > System updates as it rolls out.

Researchers Find Half of Geostationary Satellites Carry Unencrypted Data, Including Calls and Critical Infrastructure

October 15, 2025, 1:20 AM EDT. Security researchers from UC San Diego and the University of Maryland found that as many as half of geostationary satellites in Earth's orbit carry unencrypted data, including private voice calls and text messages, plus consumer internet traffic from in-flight Wi-Fi. Using a $800 off-the-shelf satellite receiver, they monitored three years of transmissions and uncovered traffic related to critical infrastructure such as energy and water systems and offshore platforms. The findings prompted some operators, including T-Mobile and AT&T in Mexico, to start encrypting data, but remediation is incomplete and vast amounts of satcom traffic will remain exposed for years. The study highlights long-standing security gaps in space communications and the need for broader encryption adoption.

Evil AI Is Boring Now – Why Screen Villains Don't Scare Us Anymore

October 15, 2025, 1:19 AM EDT. Across Tron: Ares, Megan 2.0, and Mission: Impossible: Dead Reckoning, the familiar evil AI trope struggles to spark buzz even as real-world AI advances raise alarms (AI 2027, Schmidt). The piece traces how iconic AI antagonists from HAL 9000 to Ex Machina helped frame fear, but today AI is ubiquitously useful-planning vacations, diagnosing skincare, even drafting breakup texts-making a cinematic threat feel less credible. Audiences have grown skeptical of doom-laden AI narratives, while studios wrestle with how to render a sentient entity that feels fresh. The result: filmmakers face the challenge of turning AI into a compelling character again, rather than a familiar screen saver or killer robot.

Scientists Warn Military Satellite Data Could Be Easily Intercepted

October 15, 2025, 1:18 AM EDT. Initial findings underscore vulnerabilities in satellite communications that could expose sensitive military data. The implications span defense, satellite security, and cybersecurity policy, pressuring agencies to strengthen encryption, authentication, and key-management across space-based links. Experts warn that even encrypted channels can be at risk if endpoints, ground stations, or supply chains are compromised. The potential for interception raises questions about risk assessment, incident response, and international norms governing space-based intelligence. Recommendations include adopting end-to-end encryption, quantum-resistant protocols, robust key management, regular security audits, and tighter oversight of vendor ecosystems. While the study highlights a serious threat, it also offers a roadmap for hardening space assets and improving resilience against evolving threats in space.

Fund managers warn AI stock rally may be a bubble, BofA poll shows

October 15, 2025, 1:17 AM EDT. Bank of America poll finds growing concern that AI stocks are in a bubble: about 54% of fund managers in October say tech stocks are overvalued, and 60% say global equities are too expensive. The rally has been fueled by OpenAI deals with Nvidia, Oracle, AMD, and Broadcom, pushing shares to record highs. Critics warn that vendor financing and lofty valuations echo the dot-com crash. Oxford Economics notes that investment scale raises risk, while AI remains the biggest tail risk for portfolios. As Sam Altman warned, the frenzy could overshoot fundamentals, resembling the late-1990s bubble.

Apple TV Rename and OpenAI/Broadcom AI-Chip Push Signal a Hardware-Software Shift

October 15, 2025, 1:16 AM EDT. Apple quietly shifts branding by dropping the '+', turning 'Apple TV+' into 'Apple TV' and raising questions about a broader home-tech strategy. In tech hardware news, OpenAI and Broadcom unveiled a plan to build in-house AI chips, with first units expected in the second half of next year and a scale to about 10GW of power. The deal is straight cash, with no equity ties, and Broadcom's stock jumped on the news. The commentary also surveys TBPN's rise as a more tech-positive media voice, echoing the evolution of outlets like TechCrunch. Taken together, the moves underscore a moment when major players push toward deeper integration of hardware and software in a rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Microsoft Ends Windows 10 Support: What It Means and Your Upgrade or ESU Options

October 15, 2025, 1:14 AM EDT. Microsoft has officially ended support for Windows 10, with feature updates and direct technical assistance winding down as of Oct 14, 2025. For users still on Windows 10, Microsoft offers an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program that continues security patches for a limited time-through Oct 13, 2026. If your PC meets the requirements, you can upgrade to Windows 11 for free, although some older machines may not qualify. Those who don't want or can't upgrade can enroll in ESU by paying a one-time or annual fee (options noted as starting at $30) or through free enrollment methods such as syncing settings to Microsoft OneDrive. As of Sept 2025, roughly 41% of Windows users were still on Windows 10. To stay protected, review your device specs, consider Windows 11 hardware requirements, and act before support ends to avoid security risks.

Google to Build AI Data Centre in Visakhapatnam, India with $15B Investment

October 15, 2025, 1:13 AM EDT. Google plans to expand its AI data centre footprint with a new facility on India's east coast over the next five years, investing around $15 billion. When operational, the Visakhapatnam campus in Andhra Pradesh will add a complete gigawatt-scale infrastructure for creating and delivering AI applications, powered by renewable energy and a fiber optic network. Google says it will be the largest AI hub investment outside the US, underscoring India's role as a major cloud and AI market. Developed with AdaniConneX and Airtel, the project aims to support services from Search, Workspace to YouTube and other products, meeting growing demand for digital services worldwide.

Apple Watch SE 3 review: The best budget smartwatch for iPhone users with premium features

October 15, 2025, 1:12 AM EDT. The Apple Watch SE 3 is the standout budget smartwatch for iPhone users. At a starting price of $249, it adds a new Apple S10 chip, an always-on display, and many health features found on pricier models. It competes with the Series 11 in performance while staying affordable. Choose GPS or GPS+Cellular; the latter adds 5G for standalone calls and data, though it means extra carrier fees. Cellular is especially handy for hikers and workouts away from your iPhone. Color options are limited (Midnight or Starlight Aluminum), but you can customize with bands. Pros: upgraded features, same $249 price, 5G support, strong health tracking. Cons: limited colors, slower walk detection, not Android-compatible. Overall, it's the best value for most iPhone users.

Oracle to Deploy AMD Instinct MI450 Chips, Intensifying Rivalry With Nvidia

October 15, 2025, 1:10 AM EDT. Oracle's Cloud Infrastructure will deploy tens of thousands of AMD Instinct MI450 AI chips, expanding a long-running partnership and intensifying competition with Nvidia as demand for AI infrastructure grows. The rollout starts in Q3 2026 and plans broaden in 2027 and beyond, with terms undisclosed. The deal underscores a broader push to scale next-generation models beyond current limits. AMD's move follows its OpenAI partnership to supply gigawatts of chips, and a wave of multi-billion-dollar AI infra deals across the sector. Shares: AMD rose on the news while Oracle's stock slipped. The broader market is pricing in a continued race to provision AI compute at scale.

AI Investment Boom Shields US From Sharp Slowdown, IMF Warns

October 15, 2025, 1:09 AM EDT. Global AI investment is helping the US withstand a potential slowdown, according to the IMF. The agency argues that sustained funding for AI research, data infrastructure, and modernization lifts productivity, supports labor demand, and underpins consumer spending. Spillovers across cloud computing, semiconductors, and health tech reinforce the economy's resilience even as global risks persist. Policy makers are urged to maintain pro-growth measures, invest in workforce transition, and safeguard digital competition to maximize the gains from the AI boom. While cyclical headwinds remain, the IMF says the AI investment boom is a meaningful buffer for the US economy and a driver of future growth.

Broadcom Unveils Thor Ultra: 800G AI Ethernet NIC Sets Benchmark for Scale-Out Data Centers

October 15, 2025, 1:08 AM EDT. Broadcom unveiled Thor Ultra, the industry's first 800G AI Ethernet NIC, aimed at data centers with 100,000+ XPUs. The card delivers 800 Gbps speeds and is fully compliant with the Ultra Ethernet Consortium, featuring Advanced RDMA to boost low-latency AI workloads. Broadcom bills Thor Ultra as a breakthrough for scale-out AI clusters, offering interoperability and reduced lock-in. The move tightens Broadcom's end-to-end Ethernet AI platform alongside the Tomahawk and Jericho switch families, following the debut of Tomahawk 6 – Davisson, a 102.4 Tbps co-packaged optics solution for AI deployments. Shares traded modestly lower in premarket trading after a prior surge tied to AI accelerator deals. Broadcom also announced Wi-Fi 8 silicon solutions for the wireless edge, broadening its AI-enabled network footprint.

iPhone 17 Pro cameras prove it can still battle the best of Android

October 15, 2025, 1:07 AM EDT. Android Authority reviewer Ryan Haines puts the iPhone 17 Pro's camera system to the test and finds Apple finally backing its marketing with real hardware gains. The new camera bump houses a larger telephoto sensor (1/2.55 in from 1/3.06 in) and a 48MP sensor that now enables an 8x optical crop, with a 100mm equivalent (4x) zoom-more portrait-friendly than before. The 48MP primary and ultrawide stay similar to the iPhone 16 Pro, while software and processing push color and detail. He also notes Google's Pixel strengths in stills and the magic of Magic Editor, but concedes the iPhone's video chops remain formidable. Overall, the hardware refresh narrows the gap with Android flagships, making the iPhone competitive across stills and video, even as marketing speak about 16x magnification feels overstated.

GM Pulls Plug on Hydrotec Hydrogen Cars, Refocuses on Scalable EV Tech

October 15, 2025, 1:04 AM EDT. GM is ending next-generation hydrogen fuel-cell development for passenger vehicles, citing high costs, sparse refueling infrastructure, and an uncertain path to a sustainable business. The company scrapped a $55 million Hydrotec production plant in Detroit and about 140 planned jobs, though it will continue collaborating with Honda on hydrogen for commercial applications like data-center power. Honda reportedly unveiled a more powerful next-gen fuel cell. GM states hydrogen may serve niche, high-demand industrial uses, but consumer adoption remains hampered by limited stations (61 nationwide vs 250,000 charging points). The move signals GM's pivot toward technologies with a clearer path to scale and value for customers.

DJI Osmo Action 4 Now Available on Amazon for $219 – A Top Pick for Vlogging and Travel

October 15, 2025, 1:03 AM EDT. DJI's Osmo Action 4 is now available on Amazon for $219, offering a compelling balance of cinematic capability and practical usability for vloggers and travelers. It features a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor for better low-light performance and wider dynamic range, plus 10-bit color with D-Log M for richer grading. The camera uses RockSteady 3.0+ stabilization and a magnetic quick-release system for fast mount swaps. With dual touchscreens for self-recording and control, and robust build including underwater depth rating of 18 meters and temperature resilience, the Osmo Action 4 stands out as a capable tool rather than a typical budget cam.

Backscatter's 2025 Guide to the Best Smartphone Housings: DIVEVOLK, Kraken, Oceanic+, SeaLife

October 15, 2025, 1:02 AM EDT. Backscatter reviews the best smartphone housings for 2025, evaluating four options: the DIVEVOLK SeaTouch 4 MAX PLUS, Kraken KRH07, Oceanic+, and SeaLife SportDiver Ultra. The piece compares them side-by-side across five criteria-phone compatibility, ergonomics, setup, app performance, and accessories-to help shooters decide whether a phone can truly replace a dedicated underwater camera. It's complemented by a detailed video featuring Thomas Anderson. The article also guides you to Backscatter's shop for trays, arms, wet lenses, filters, and video lights, and notes that DIVEVOLK sponsors this year's DPG Masters Underwater Imaging Competition with multiple SeaTouch 4 MAX PLUS housings up for grabs. If you're shopping for underwater mobile gear, this guide highlights each housing's strengths, weaknesses, and real-world use cases.

Google tests Gemini 3 ahead of release; SVG prowess and AI Studio updates

October 15, 2025, 1:01 AM EDT. Google is ramping up for a rumored October Gemini 3 release, with early testers reporting a major SVG generation upgrade over Gemini 2.5 and rivals like Sonnet 4.5. The buzz surrounds broader use in software dev and technical workflows, plus teased updates like Veo 3.1 and a new Nano Banana model built on Gemini 3 Pro. Rumors point to an enhanced AI Studio experience, the rebranding of "apps" to connected apps, and tighter integration of Google services. Behind the scenes, work on Agent Mode with browser control aims to bring browser automation closer to ChatGPT/Copilot-grade control. A livestream on October 9 invites developers to see how Google AI could streamline business tasks, while new UI refinements like My Stuff promise easier access to generated assets.

Prime Day Alert: Motorola Edge hits all-time low price with strong battery, display and camera features

October 15, 2025, 1:00 AM EDT. Prime Day brings the Motorola Edge to its lowest price ever, making it a strong mid-range pick. The 6.7-inch pOLED display, 5,200mAh battery with fast charging, and a triple camera system, plus 8GB RAM, deliver solid multitasking and versatile photography. A MediaTek Dimensity 7400 chipset powers the experience, with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling. The deal shines for shoppers after long battery life, fast charging, and a budget-friendly price under $350. Downsides include only two years of OS updates and performance that's not flagship-tier. The Edge's vegan leather back and value-for-money proposition keep it competitive on Prime Day, even if it isn't perfect. If you want a feature-rich Android phone without flagship pricing, this discount is hard to ignore.

Google Prepares Gemini 3 Launch to Rival GPT-5, Reports Say

October 15, 2025, 12:59 AM EDT. Google is gearing up to unveil its next multimodal AI model, Gemini 3, during a livestream on October 9, aiming to challenge OpenAI's GPT-5. Reports say the update will boost reasoning, coding accuracy, and creative generation. A separate briefing claims Gemini 3 has outpaced Anthropic's Claude 4.5 in handling vector graphics and structured outputs. If confirmed, the launch could sharpen the race among major AI labs and influence how developers leverage multimodal capabilities across coding, graphics, and complex tasks.

Pixel 10 Pro Fold: The gearless hinge that reshapes foldables

October 15, 2025, 12:58 AM EDT. Pixel's 10 Pro Fold introduces a gearless hinge that replaces traditional gears with spring-loaded cams across the hinge, so when one half opens the other follows in sync. The architecture shift enables a thinner device, with the inner display expanding to eight inches and a smaller-bezel 6.4-inch outer display. Removing gears also frees space for a larger, longer-lasting battery-our biggest battery on a foldable device yet, capable of more than 30 hours. Aesthetics were addressed with a polished aluminum CMF and hinge finish to match the pro look. The team ran extensive drop tests and iterative prototypes to validate the concept, resulting in a phone-first design that blends larger display real estate, performance, and battery life.

JPMorgan Bets $10B Over a Decade to Boost US Tech and National Security

October 15, 2025, 12:57 AM EDT. JPMorgan Chase unveiled a decade-long plan to invest $10 billion in US-based companies advancing critical sectors, including supply chain resilience, energy independence, defense, and strategic technologies such as AI and quantum computing. The strategy, funded from JPMorgan's capital and venture investments, aims to unlock about $1.5 trillion of growth over 10 years and bolster domestic production of medicines, minerals, and microchips. CEO Jamie Dimon warned that the US has become too reliant on volatile sources for essential goods, tying the move to tensions with China amid tariffs and rare-earth controls. The bank will hire more investment staff, form an external council, and push for greater self-reliance in technology and manufacturing. JPMorgan shares rose modestly in premarket trading.

Samsung begins stable One UI 8 rollout (Android 16) to Galaxy A53 5G and A33 5G, Korea leads

October 15, 2025, 12:56 AM EDT. Samsung has started rolling out a stable One UI 8 update based on Android 16 for the Galaxy A53 5G and Galaxy A33 5G. South Korea is first, with firmware GYI2 for the A53 and GYI3 for the A33. The update should reach other regions in coming days. Beta packages are ~160 MB; regular users may download several gigabytes. Key changes include an updated design of the interface, improvements to Samsung apps, new personalization options, and enhanced performance and security. It includes the September 2025 security patch. Global rollout isn't complete; Samsung is already testing One UI 8.5, planned after the Galaxy S26 launch, with both A53 and A33 receiving 8.5. Other devices like A56/A36/A34 and S22/S23 lines have already got 8; One UI 8 Watch is rolling out to Galaxy Watch7.

Android Auto 15.2 breaks Quick Controls on vertical taskbars

October 15, 2025, 12:55 AM EDT. Android Auto 15.2 is rolling out, but for some users the Quick Controls widget no longer works on displays with a vertical taskbar. The feature used to show media controls or navigation while in another app; Google shifted to app shortcuts after a dashboard redesign. With 15.2, the toggle no longer moves the bar, leaving users unable to access controls in this orientation. Reports started in late September as the stable update landed, with discussions on Reddit and Google forums. It's unclear if this is an intentional change or a bug; Google has not confirmed a fix timeline. Expect updates in future releases.

Apple to Present Eight ICCV 2025 Papers, Keynotes, and Workshops in Honolulu

October 15, 2025, 12:54 AM EDT. Apple confirmed its participation in ICCV 2025 in Honolulu, October 19-23, where the company will showcase eight papers in both poster and oral formats. In addition to presentations, Apple will feature in the keynote lineup with Dr. C. Thomas, Applied Research Manager for Machine Learning, at the 3rd Workshop on Vision-based Industrial Inspection (VISION). The schedule includes a 9:15 a.m. session on Sunday, October 19. Apple researchers will also take part in the Women in Computer Vision Workshop, with mentors Patricia Vitoria Carrera and Tanya Glozman at the post-workshop dinner. The event underscores Apple's ongoing focus on computer vision, machine learning, and AI research.

Android Auto 15.2 Breaks Quick Controls for Some Users

October 15, 2025, 12:53 AM EDT. Android Auto 15.2.9 is leaving some users with unresponsive Quick Controls, even though the option appears in the menu. Reports vary, suggesting this is more likely a bug than a deliberate change, with the Android Auto team weighing in but offering no official fix yet. There's no universal solution beyond waiting for an update or manually rolling back to a previous app version. To prevent recurrence, users can disable automatic updates so they don't get re-pushed to 15.2. In short, affected drivers should monitor official guidance and consider staying on the older build if Quick Controls are essential.

Gemini 3.0 launch date leak hints Oct 22, 2025

October 15, 2025, 12:52 AM EDT. A leak circulating on social media hints that Google's next-gen AI, Gemini 3.0, could debut around October 22, 2025. The post shows a milestone table with an entry labeled 'Marketing milestone' aligned to Gemini 3.0's launch moment. Google has not confirmed any details; sources like Mishaal Rahman say the document looks plausible, but veracity is unclear. The report notes past releases since Gemini 2.5 and the subsequent 2.5 Pro/Flash iterations. If real, the announcement could come next week, with a formal reveal following. Readers should stay tuned for official confirmation.

Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay+ review: budget hybrid with dual lenses and selfie camera

October 15, 2025, 12:51 AM EDT. Fujifilm's Instax Mini LiPlay+ is a budget-friendly hybrid that blends digital capture with instant prints. It adds a rear-facing selfie camera alongside the traditional front lens and gives you the option to save shots before printing, plus a retake feature to avoid wasted film. The LiPlay+ arrives with a refreshed boxy design, a solid color finish, and simple controls that suit casual shooters. Its megapixel count remains modest, so you're trading high resolution for nostalgic charm and quick, tangible prints. Priced around $235, it sits near the Mini Evo and wider Evo, not as budget as the original LiPlay, but appealing to selfie enthusiasts and retro camera fans alike.

Oracle debuts Iceberg-compatible Autonomous AI Lakehouse to boost cross-cloud analytics

October 15, 2025, 12:50 AM EDT. Oracle unveils an Iceberg-compatible Autonomous AI Lakehouse, prioritizing flexibility and interoperability for enterprise analytics. By adding an Iceberg backbone and a unified catalog that spans clouds, data lakes, databases, shares, and catalogs, Oracle signals a shift from a single-cloud model to cross-cloud, vendor-neutral analytics. Analysts highlight alignment with Microsoft Fabric and Google BigLake, plus plug-and-play SQL with catalogs like Databricks Unity, AWS Glue, and Snowflake Polaris to support multi-cloud and hybrid deployments across OCI, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and Exadata Cloud@Customer. The move benefits customers pursuing open-table lakehouse analytics without abandoning Autonomous Database or Exadata, expanding Oracle's interoperability-focused strategy.

Google fixes Pixel 10 app crash nightmare with server-side patch

October 15, 2025, 12:49 AM EDT. Over the weekend, Pixel 10 owners faced random app crashes, worsened over time and driving users to uninstall the latest Google Play services update as a workaround. About 24 hours later, Google rolled out a server-side change that appears to fix the issue. Android Police founder Artem Russakovskii shared logs with Google, helping them investigate. The company classified the bug as an incident, a high-priority, unplanned interruption affecting quality. Google will conduct an internal review to understand what went wrong. For now, users are advised to restart their device and stay on the latest Play services build. The problem was isolated to Pixel devices.

JPMorgan's $1.5 Trillion Bet: Dimon Targets Supply Chain, Defense, Energy, and Frontier Tech

October 15, 2025, 12:48 AM EDT. Jamie Dimon's JPMorgan Chase unveils a $1.5 trillion, decade-long bet on four strategic sectors: supply chain and advanced manufacturing, defense and aerospace, energy independence and resilience, and frontier and strategic technologies. The plan includes up to $10 billion in equity or venture investments for select companies, signaling deeper private-public convergence as government support can accompany co-investments or offtakes. Executives cite AI-driven digitization, safer and more efficient infrastructure, and a US catch-up posture amid mineral supply risks. The move could amplify impact beyond JPMorgan, with talent hunts under way and widespread industry chatter. Dimon's annual letter and a solid Q3 beat add weight to the bet, underscoring how technology and finance are shaping policy and growth.

AI and Web Applications: How AI Accelerates Reconnaissance-and Why It Matters for Security

October 15, 2025, 12:47 AM EDT. AI is accelerating reconnaissance in web applications, enabling attackers to map environments by analyzing login flows, JavaScript, errors, API docs, and code. It speeds up early/middle stages of the attacker workflow-gathering, enriching, and plotting plausible paths-while humans remain in the loop. This expands exposure, since seemingly harmless details can become actionable. An outdated library can reveal framework usage and narrow attack paths. AI shines at parsing unstructured data at scale, correlating website content, DNS, headers, SSLs, and tech stacks, and overcoming language barriers. It enables contextual matching: identifying frameworks, risks, and techniques quickly by cross-referencing data. Ultimately, AI changes what attackers decide to inspect, not how they breach, highlighting the need for proactive defense and comprehensive monitoring.

State Department CIO Drives AI-Enabled Modernization and Cybersecurity in Diplomacy

October 15, 2025, 12:45 AM EDT. Dr. Kelly Fletcher, the State Department's Chief Information Officer, is steering AI-powered modernization across 100,000 users in 190 countries. Her remit spans enterprise services, mission apps and cybersecurity, with a focus on rapid detection, response and recovery beyond traditional prevention. She led a China-backed Microsoft email intrusion response and champions a reorganization that folds technologists into Diplomatic Technology to gain scale while preserving mission voice. The bureau embeds technology chiefs at every post, enabling edge capabilities-from generative AI dashboards to fiber repair and post-authentication access. Through a revised directory model and device strategy, staff carry government laptops across assignments, reinforcing persistent identity and access. The effort aims to accelerate diplomacy with secure, user-centered tech while balancing risk in a unique, mission-driven operating environment.

AST SpaceMobile Could Revolutionize Satellite Connectivity

October 15, 2025, 12:43 AM EDT. Free teaser: AST SpaceMobile could revolutionize satellite connectivity, with the headline hinting at major potential for the stock ASTS. The snippet notes this is a free article whose opinions may differ from The Motley Fool's Premium Investing Services, inviting readers to learn more by subscribing for top analysts and resources. The focus is on how a telecom/space venture could transform coverage and connectivity, while the finance takeaway centers on weighing risks and opportunities in space-based communications and related stocks. Stay tuned for updates on partnerships, regulatory developments, and market reception as this story unfolds.

JPMorgan Unveils $1.5 Trillion Plan to Bolster U.S. National Security and Strategic Industries

October 15, 2025, 12:42 AM EDT. JPMorgan Chase chief Jamie Dimon announced a $1.5 trillion plan, the Security and Resilience Initiative, to invest over a decade in strategic industries critical to national security. The fund will include up to $10 billion in equity capital and venture investments, aimed at U.S.-based companies to strengthen the economy and the nation's resilience. Dimon warned that a strong America underpins global security, noting investments won't be purely philanthropic and should deliver a return as investors and the government focus on resilience and energy security, including LNG supply chains in Europe. The move signals a closer tie between finance, policy, and technology-driven growth as JPMorgan seeks to bolster the U.S. economy and global security while supporting smaller and middle-market firms.

Tesla faces Korea subsidy risk as 4,500 battery faults threaten EV subsidies

October 15, 2025, 12:41 AM EDT. Tesla is under pressure in South Korea after the Korea JoongAng Daily reported that about 4,500 Model 3 and Model Y EVs are affected by a Battery Management System error (BMS_a079) that caps charge at 50%, shortening range. The fault, concentrated in 2021 cars, has logged 4,637 cases across 4,351 vehicles and has recurred after battery replacements in hundreds of cases. Many owners face repair bills once warranties expire. Civil groups are calling for a full recall, while regulators weigh next steps. The Environment Ministry warns that ongoing failures could jeopardize lucrative EV subsidies. Officials say Tesla must respond, or subsidies could be suspended, underscoring Korea's push to expand EV adoption while protecting consumers.

Dow Futures Slide as U.S.-China Tensions Rise; Nvidia and Tesla Lead Tech Stock Sell-Off (Live Coverage)

October 15, 2025, 12:40 AM EDT. U.S. stock futures edged lower Tuesday as renewed U.S.-China tensions weighed on sentiment. Dow Jones Industrial Average futures fell about 0.7%, S&P 500 futures slipped 0.9%, and Nasdaq-100 futures were down roughly 1.2% in premarket trading. In early action, Nvidia (NVDA) and Tesla (TSLA) posted losses as investors digested the macro backdrop. The move to the downside ahead of the open highlights a cautious mood for tech and growth stocks as geopolitical headlines keep volatility elevated.

DJI launches FlightHub 2 AIO: the all-in-one on-prem drone management device

October 15, 2025, 12:38 AM EDT. DJI unveils FlightHub 2 AIO, an on-premises all-in-one drone management device pre-loaded with FlightHub 2 On-Prem, Cloud Modelling Module, and 4G Enhanced Transmission software. The compact unit combines hardware and software for quick deployment, strong security (local data storage), and flexible operation across offices, vehicles, and server rooms. It enables fast 2D/3D modelling with a high-performance GPU and the DJI Terra engine, delivering rapid geospatial visuals and updates – such as a 3D model produced within five minutes from 500 images in emergencies. With multi-scenario deployment-in-vehicle, server-room, and office-FlightHub 2 AIO aims to unify drone data workflows while keeping deployments private and secure.

Richard Culatta to Explore AI and Humanity at URI Honors Colloquium

October 15, 2025, 12:37 AM EDT. Richard Culatta, a leading thinker in education technology, returns to the University of Rhode Island to discuss how AI reshapes learning. At the 2025 Honors Colloquium, Culatta will present Using AI to Become Better at Being Human, outlining the skills students must demonstrate before graduation to thrive in an AI world. The talk, free and open to the public, will take place Oct. 21 at Edwards Hall and will be livestreamed. Culatta, CEO of ISTE+ASCD and former U.S. DOE Office of Educational Technology, has influenced digital equity, personalized learning, and responsible AI use in education. The event is part of URI's fall colloquium series, Education, Behind the Curtains, with additional speakers continuing Oct. 28 and a year-end panel on Rhode Island education.

Rimac Unveils Solid-State Battery Platform and High-Density EV Drive Units to Expand Beyond Supercars

October 15, 2025, 12:32 AM EDT. Rimac Technology revealed a bold expansion beyond its hypercars at IAA Mobility, introducing a Solid-State Battery Platform built with ProLogium cells and Mitsubishi Chemical Group materials. The Next-Gen battery aims for higher energy density, safety, and reduced weight, signaling Rimac's move into energy storage and the EV supply chain. Alongside, Rimac rolled out Evo and Hybrid pack lines for near-term production, using 46XX Gen2 NMC cells and a modular thermoplastic housing created with Kautex Textron. The company also unveiled SINTEG 300 and 550 e-axles with ultra-light rotors, high power density (>8 kW/kg) and torque (>90 Nm/kg), plus a larger XXL dual-motor axle with >11,000 Nm torque slated for 2026. With dual Croatian sites and a €200M campus, Rimac aims to be a key EV supplier, not just a boutique maker.

SpaceX Falcon 9 Launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base at 4:12 p.m. PT on Oct. 14

October 15, 2025, 12:31 AM EDT. SpaceX is targeting a 4:12 p.m. PT liftoff Tuesday, Oct. 14, using a two-stage Falcon 9 from Launch Complex 4E at the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The mission will deploy the second of 10 Tranche 1 satellites for the Space Development Agency to power a global military network. A backup window is expected the next day if weather or vehicle issues delay liftoff. As with most SpaceX missions, the launch will stream on the SpaceX website and the X TV app about 10 minutes before liftoff. Viewers can watch from various spots in Santa Barbara County, depending on the south/east trajectory.

Can you spot SpaceX's Falcon 9 from Arizona? When and how to watch the Vandenberg launch

October 15, 2025, 12:30 AM EDT. SpaceX is preparing a Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base to deploy SDA's Tranche 1 Starlink satellites. The 230-foot two-stage rocket targets 4:12 p.m. PT on Tuesday, Oct. 14, with a backup window the next day. The mission will depart from Launch Complex 4E on a south or southeast trajectory, potentially making the rocket visible across Arizona, weather permitting. Live coverage will stream on SpaceX's site and X TV, with updates on X. Postponements due to weather or technical issues can occur. If you're in Arizona, keep an eye on the afternoon sky for a bright streak and check azcentral for updates.

Broadcom-OpenAI chip deal lifts shares as banks kick off earnings season and car prices top $50K

October 15, 2025, 12:28 AM EDT. Broadcom's stock jumped nearly 10% after OpenAI confirmed a multi-year, 10-gigawatt custom AI accelerator deal, signaling OpenAI's deeper foray into chipmaking and potentially turning it into a major hyperscaler competitor. Analysts wagered OpenAI could be the unnamed $10 billion customer, while Broadcom executives said it's a separate client. The news lifted tech names and helped buoy the market as banks kicked off earnings season on a positive note. In other headlines, the average price of a new car rose above $50,000 for the first time, underscoring inflationary pressures on consumers.

Oracle and AMD expand AI partnership with 50,000 GPUs to scale an AI supercluster

October 15, 2025, 12:26 AM EDT. Oracle and AMD are expanding their joint AI initiative by deploying 50,000 AMD GPUs beginning in the third quarter of 2026, with further expansion planned. The effort centers on an interconnected AI supercluster designed to operate as a single system to accelerate next-generation models that may outgrow current infrastructure. The companies did not disclose any dollar figures for the expanded partnership. Market reaction saw AMD shares jump about 3% pre-market, while Oracle slid around 1.8%. The move underscores the push to scale high-performance computing for advanced AI workloads amid growing demand for more capable, scalable infrastructure.

DJI Mini 5 Pro: Big Camera Upgrades Amid Near-250 g Weight and UK Rules

October 15, 2025, 12:25 AM EDT. DJI's Mini 5 Pro brings a big camera upgrade – a 1-inch sensor with 50 MP output in Quad Bayer, nudging image quality toward the Air lineup in a pocketable package. But the trade-off is weight. DJI lists a design weight of 249.9 g with a tolerance of ±4 g, putting it in the infamous near-250 g zone that triggers stricter rules in many markets. In the UK, that threshold dictates where you can fly in parks, beaches, and built-up areas, though changes expected in 2026 may alter the calculus. The company notes the US won't see an official Mini 5 Pro launch amid regulatory tensions, including a DJI ban. Despite the weight, the camera upgrade makes this a compelling option for travelers who want pro-like quality in a tiny drone.

Tim Cook's China Visit Boosts iPhone Air Launch as China Trials eSIM

October 15, 2025, 12:24 AM EDT. Apple CEO Tim Cook's latest China visit coincides with the mainland launch of the iPhone Air, as China's three major operators begin eSIM trials on smartphones. Apple's China site lists pre-orders for the iPhone Air from 9am Friday, with shipments starting next Wednesday and a starting price of 7,999 yuan. The move marks a milestone for eSIM in China, enabling thinner designs and secure device authentication on networks. Cook also promotes the iPhone 17 series in a Douyin live stream, underscoring domestic release plans. Domestic makers like Huawei and Oppo are expected to roll out eSIM-enabled phones soon as regulators and operators advance the transition.

Oracle and NVIDIA Accelerate Sovereign AI for Abu Dhabi's AI-Native Government

October 15, 2025, 12:23 AM EDT. Oracle AI World highlighted a deepened collaboration with NVIDIA to accelerate sovereign AI and government digital transformation. By pairing NVIDIA AI Enterprise on Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), Abu Dhabi's DGE (with Deloitte and Core42) can build secure, AI-first systems for proactive citizen services. The initiative advances Abu Dhabi's goal of an AI-native government by 2027, scalable worldwide. The stack includes 160 AI tools, a high-performance accelerated cluster, and NIM microservices in a secure, sovereign environment. The 2025-2027 Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy, backed by 13-billion AED, envisions 100% sovereign cloud adoption, full digitization, and automated approvals. Key services: multilingual AI assistants (over 15 languages) and instant handling of 77% of queries, enabling proactive government.

Tesla Stock Rises as Analysts Call It a Must-Own AI Era Play

October 15, 2025, 12:20 AM EDT. Tesla (TSLA) stock jumped more than 5% after Melius Research initiated coverage with a Buy rating and a $520 target, calling the automaker a must-own stock in the AI era. The note argues the company has a structural lead in automation and computing efficiency versus traditional automakers, aided by its close ties to Elon Musk ventures SpaceX and xAI, which are expanding AI infrastructure and data-center capacity. Wertheimer says Tesla's autonomous driving effort is its first major real-world AI application, and that Tesla could outpace peers thanks to its control of hardware and data. However, near-term results may face pressure from weak EV demand as the company balances production costs with pricing.

Tesla Seen as 'Must Own' as AI and Self-Driving Hype Persists Ahead of Musk's Call

October 15, 2025, 12:19 AM EDT. Tesla (TSLA) is being labeled a 'must own' by a firm that kicked off coverage as third-quarter earnings loom after strong quarterly deliveries. The stock narrative is increasingly centered on AI and self-driving capabilities, even as broader auto news swirls. A Melius Research note argues the name offers growth with potential margin expansion, appealing to investors seeking exposure to autonomous tech. Shares cooled slightly on Tuesday after Monday's rebound, reflecting cautious sentiment ahead of earnings. Key questions remain: how quickly production scales, how AI software monetizes in practice, and what insights Musk may share during an upcoming call. The coming week will be decisive for whether sentiment maintains momentum into the post-earnings period.

Planet Labs PBC Valuation Spotlight: AI Satellites, Navy Contract, and Geospatial Growth

October 15, 2025, 12:18 AM EDT. Planet Labs PBC is in the spotlight as renewed US Navy contracts, new satellite launches, and expanded AI analytics lift its position in the Earth Observation and geospatial data space. Recent data show dramatic stock momentum: ~55.9% over the last month, ~284.1% YTD, and a 571.8% one-year TSR, underscoring investor optimism rooted in tangible contracts and product momentum. A popular narrative questions whether fair value (as low as $11.31) justifies the run-up, highlighting potential risks like slowing government contract growth and competition in satellite analytics. The story also points to Planet Labs' equity stakes in startups leveraging its data, suggesting additional upside from the expanding EO startup ecosystem. For investors, the question remains: is there more upside or has much of the value already been priced in?

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Drops to $269 in Limited-Time Deal – Best Low-Light Action Camera

October 15, 2025, 12:17 AM EDT. DJI's Osmo Action 5 Pro just dropped to $269 (from $339), a limited-time deal for a camera that truly shines in low light. Boasting a 1/1.3in sensor bigger than the GoPro Hero 13 Black, it captures cleaner dusk and indoor footage. Key specs: 4K at 120fps, dual OLED touchscreens (front/back), 13.5 stops of dynamic range with SuperNight mode, and waterproofing without a case. The Essential Combo adds extra batteries and mounts, boosting all-day shooting. Note the camera tops out at 24mm; for ultra-wide you will want a lens mod, and microSD is the only storage. Gloves can hinder the touchscreen. Compared options: GoPro Hero 13 Black at $399 and Insta360 Ace Pro at $379. If you shoot in varied lighting, the sensor upgrade justifies the cost. Grab it before the deal ends.

Iran Drafts Anti-Espionage Law Threatening Death Penalty for Using Starlink

October 15, 2025, 12:16 AM EDT. Iran's draft anti-espionage law would punish the personal use of Starlink and other unauthorised satellite Internet services, with the death penalty for acts against the state. The bill also bans the use, possession, purchase, sale, or import of unlicensed devices and allows equipment confiscation; penalties include six months to two years in prison. Western reporting has noted rising Starlink usage in Iran amid ongoing Internet restrictions, and authorities have attempted signal jamming. The measure underscores the government's push to tighten control over digital communications and could criminalize ordinary users of satellite Internet.

Palantir Surges 300% in a Year as AI Demand Drives Record Growth

October 15, 2025, 12:15 AM EDT. Palantir Technologies has surged about 300% in the last year as demand for its AI platforms accelerates. The company reported a quarterly revenue of $1.004 billion, its first billion-dollar quarter, with a 68% increase in U.S. revenue and a 93% rise in domestic commercial sales, highlighting uptake of the Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP). Outlooks vary: Mizuho fixed a Neutral rating with a $165 target, while Bank of America raised its target to $215 with a Buy rating. Analysts forecast Q3 EPS of $0.17 and Q3 revenue above $1.09B. For the year, Palantir guides $4.14-$4.15B in sales, driven by stronger U.S. commercial growth. The question remains whether the AI-led momentum can sustain.

Study Finds Half of Geostationary Satellite Signals Unencrypted, Exposing Private and Military Data

October 15, 2025, 12:14 AM EDT. A three-year study by UC San Diego and the University of Maryland found that roughly half of geostationary satellite signals are left unencrypted, enabling eavesdropping with under $800 of off-the-shelf gear. Using a $185 dish, a $140 roof mount, a $195 motor, and a $230 tuner card, researchers intercepted private communications ranging from consumer calls and texts to airline Wi-Fi and even some military traffic. The signals blanket more than 40% of the planet at any moment and are typically used for telecom backhaul. The researchers say the industry has relied on the assumption that no one would look up to check, a risky security posture that could expose critical infrastructure and national security data.

Tesla Musk Incentive Package: A Governance Masterclass Aligning Pay with Shareholders' Long-Term Value

October 15, 2025, 12:13 AM EDT. Dr. Shane Goodwin, a governance advisor to Tesla's Special Committee, argues the proposed incentive plan is a disciplined, governance-driven design. It is 100% contingent on measurable milestones-market capitalization and operational milestones-that align Elon Musk's incentives with shareholders' interests. Critics misinterpret the plan as risky; in reality, it emphasizes long-term value over promises. The approach treats leadership retention as essential during Tesla's shift toward AI, robotics, and sustainable energy. By tying pay to performance, the plan seeks to maximize shareholder outcomes while maintaining rigorous accountability and a principled governance process.

Apple Watch Series 11 vs Series 10: Upgrade Guide, Pricing and Design

October 15, 2025, 12:12 AM EDT. Apple's Series 11 largely looks like the Series 10, but with a few upgrades worth considering. Pricing remains the same at $399 aluminum or $699 titanium, with a $100 cellular option and higher prices for non-rubber bands. You can't buy the watch case alone-you must choose a band, even if you already have one. The Series 11 comes in 46mm and 42mm sizes and is slightly heavier (46mm: 37.8g vs 36.4g; 42mm: 30.3g vs 30.0g). Color and finish options expand to a new space gray aluminum, plus titanium in slate, gold, and natural. The Series 11 replaces the Series 10, though refurbished Series 10s remain available. A premium Apple Watch Hermès titanium option also exists. If you're happy with Series 10, you can wait; otherwise, the upgrade is modest in design but meaningful in options.

Oracle Cloud to deploy 50,000 AMD AI chips, signaling new Nvidia competition

October 15, 2025, 12:10 AM EDT. Oracle Cloud Infrastructure will deploy 50,000 AMD GPUs starting in H2 2026, using the MI-450 chips that can be combined into a rack-sized system enabling 72 chips per rack. The move adds to growing competition with NVIDIA as cloud providers seek alternatives for AI workloads, especially in inferencing. Karan Batta, SVP of Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, says customers will embrace AMD in AI workloads. OpenAI has broader relationships with AMD through multi-year power deals and cloud arrangements, underscoring a push to diversify suppliers beyond NVIDIA, which still dominates the data-center GPU market. At Oracle AI World, Larry Ellison is set to speak, signaling strategic positioning as OpenAI explores multiple suppliers and in-house chip design efforts.

California Signs AI Safety and Social Media Bills Targeting Big Tech

October 15, 2025, 12:09 AM EDT. California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a package of bills aimed at child online safety amid concerns about AI and social media risks. The centerpiece, SB 243, requires chatbots to disclose they are AI and to urge minors to take a break every three hours, plus tools to curb harmful behaviors and to flag certain incidents to a crisis hotline. Another measure, AB 56, pushes device makers and platforms to implement age-verification tools. The moves echo a broader push to hold Big Tech accountable while keeping California at the forefront of AI regulation. Newsom framed the bills as balancing innovation with safety; companies like OpenAI welcomed the steps. The legislation signals a shift in how states regulate AI and online platforms, with potential ripple effects for national policy.

Tesla vs. Rivian: Which EV Stock Has More Upside Ahead of Q3 Earnings

October 15, 2025, 12:08 AM EDT. Tesla (TSLA) and Rivian (RIVN) face investors ahead of Q3 earnings as they chart the next phase of EV demand. Tesla remains a market leader with a large global footprint, delivering solid results and a stock up about 100% over the past year and ~7.9% YTD. Analysts expect Q3 2025 earnings around $0.53 per share and revenue of about $26.14 billion, with deliveries already beating expectations. Melius Research's Rob Wertheimer initiated coverage with a Buy and a $520 price target (roughly +19%). TD Cowen's Itay Michaeli raised his target to $509. Rivian, in earlier growth stage and not yet profitable, is forecast for a Q3 2025 loss of $0.74 per share and $1.52 billion in revenue, with a Hold rating and a $14 target. Investors will watch margin, cash burn, and production milestones.

Federal judge fines and reprimands attorney for using AI to draft court filings

October 15, 2025, 12:07 AM EDT. In Alabama, U.S. District Judge Terry Moorer fined and reprimanded Loxley attorney James Johnson for using AI to draft court filings containing bogus case citations. The 18-page order says the misconduct is more than recklessness and that inserting fake citations is 'just wrong.' Johnson was fined $5,000 and ordered to alert current and future clients about the error, with the court's advisory panel weighing removal from the list of attorneys eligible for court-appointed criminal cases. The judge stressed that reliance on generative AI can hallucinate and urged tougher deterrence, noting similar errors across the legal profession.

Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Review: Affordable, but with key compromises

October 15, 2025, 12:06 AM EDT. Samsung's Galaxy S25 FE aims to bridge the gap between affordable A-series and premium S smartphones, with a notable price drop that puts the 128 GB model under $550. It offers a bright 120 Hz AMOLED display, strong cameras, long-term updates, and a lighter, sleeker build with Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection. Yet it sacrifices several premium cues: an optical fingerprint sensor instead of an ultrasonic one, an LTPS panel rather than LTPO, and the Exynos 2400-leading to weaker performance. Its biggest caveat is the battery life within the S25 family, plus occasional heat and a higher PWM dimming frequency. On the upside, it has a larger battery with faster charging, Android 16, and thinner bezels. If you can live without peak battery life, the standard Galaxy S25 often matches this at the same price.

Space Pioneer raises $350M as China's commercial space launch boom accelerates

October 15, 2025, 12:04 AM EDT. Space Pioneer has raised about $350 million in a pre-D and D funding round, backing the development of its Tianlong-3 rocket and next-generation propulsion. The nearly 2.5 billion yuan round, led by a mix of state-backed firms and asset managers, will fund mass-production prep for rockets and engines and advance new-generation engines and launch vehicles as China expands its commercial space ecosystem. Following the success of Tianlong-2, Space Pioneer is targeting a test orbital flight of Tianlong-3 after completing a launch pad at Jiuquan. The round signals continuing government-aligned capital support for commercial space, alongside peers such as Landspace and Geely's Geespace, as China builds a broader FFSC/rocket program.

Archibald: What happened when I Googled myself – AI-generated fiction and the risk of misinformation

October 15, 2025, 12:03 AM EDT. An opinion column where Archibald recounts Googling his name and encountering AI-generated fiction about him. The piece cites Geoffrey Hinton and his fears about the future of AI, then shows how a fabricated AI summary claimed a long-ago controversy that never happened. It grapples with how AI can manufacture stories about real people, how some outlets publish questionable sources to make room for AI-driven content, and why this irritates readers and threatens trust in the news. The author calls for accountability and skepticism in online speech as we navigate a world where AI reshapes information.

HPE Analyst Day: AI Growth Outlook and Juniper Deal Impact

October 15, 2025, 12:02 AM EDT. At the upcoming HPE investor day, analysts will parse the AI growth outlook and the strategic impact of the Juniper Networks deal. After hitting record highs on market optimism, HPE faces questions on long-term targets, with estimates for mid-to-high single-digit revenue growth aided by Juniper and an AI backlog of about $3.7 billion. Analysts expect a fiscal 2026 outlook and a three-year framework, with EPS growth in the low-double digits to low-teens, and a focus on capital returns versus debt paydown. Investors will also watch for Dell Technologies competition in AI servers, and how the DoJ clearance of the $14 billion deal could influence margins and the core server business.