Technology News 28.10.2025

DJI's $15 Mobile Receiver: Smartphone Audio Boost, Yet Unavailable to U.S. Creators

October 28, 2025, 11:48 PM EDT. Youtuber iPhonedo uncovers DJI's stealth release: the DJI Mic Series Mobile Receiver, a tiny $15 device that adds wireless mic input to smartphones. Available in China since Oct 15, 2025 and in select European stores, it remains unavailable in the U.S. amid upcoming regulatory bans. The pocket-sized receiver weighs 6.5 g, connects via USB-C or a Lightning adapter, and can pair with two transmitters from the DJI Mic family, though it doesn't support the original DJI Mic. Creators face premium prices on resale (roughly $40 on eBay) due to import hurdles and policy uncertainty. The move highlights how regulatory tensions can mute accessible audio tools for American creators while rivals proceed.

Trump Signals Discussing Nvidia Blackwell Chips with Xi Jinping

October 28, 2025, 11:46 PM EDT. President Trump says he may raise Nvidia's Blackwell AI chips with Chinese President Xi Jinping, calling them the super duper chip. The claim centers on Nvidia's latest AI chip architecture and its role in expanding a competition over China's access to advanced hardware. The remarks come as the U.S. tightens export controls that have limited Nvidia's sales of its most advanced chips to China and even as Beijing bans imports. Nvidia has said it is currently 100% out of China with no market share there, though Beijing could use market access as leverage in trade talks. The comments add fuel to the debate over technology policy, supply chains, and the leverage of big AI firms in geopolitics.

DJI Enterprise Teases Zenmuse L3 LiDAR Payload Ahead of November 4 Launch

October 28, 2025, 11:14 PM EDT. DJI Enterprise has dropped a teaser for a November 4, 2025 launch at 7 AM EST, hinting at a new LiDAR payload-likely the Zenmuse L3. The cryptic tagline "See Through, Far and True," plus pink/purple display visuals in teaser footage and leaked hardware, point to enhanced surveying and mapping capabilities. If true, the Zenmuse L3 could boost detection range, penetration, and accuracy for professional drone operators. The potential upgrade would impact land surveyors, forestry managers, and infrastructure inspectors who rely on drone-mounted LiDAR. As with prior DJI releases, official specs remain scarce, but images suggest a focus on precision, range, and streamlined workflow for enterprise users.

Quantum Computing Puts Asia's Financial Systems at Risk

October 28, 2025, 10:58 PM EDT. Asia's financial infrastructure faces a potential disruption from quantum computing, with analysts warning that many institutions are ill prepared. While economies such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore are developing strategies to guard critical systems, a large portion of the region's banks and payment networks remain vulnerable as digital wallets and real-time payments expand. Quantum computing can crack public-key cryptography and the digital signatures that underpin secure transactions, threatening stored data, digital identities, and interbank settlements. Anndy Lian cautions that Asia's financial sector faces an existential risk if quantum-safe infrastructure is not built quickly, particularly in ASEAN. Once powerful quantum machines arrive within five to ten years, attackers could compromise confidential records and payment rails even before upgrades are complete.

Foxconn to Deploy Humanoid Robots at Houston AI Server Plant for Nvidia

October 28, 2025, 10:32 PM EDT. Foxconn (Hon Hai Precision Industry) said it will deploy humanoid robots at its Houston AI-server plant to produce servers for Nvidia, using the NVIDIA Isaac GR00T N model on production lines. The move, first reported earlier this year, targets the first quarter of 2026 as Foxconn and Nvidia push a world-leading AI smart factory benchmark. Foxconn also plans to scale AI server output across Texas, Wisconsin, and California to meet rising demand. Chairman Young Liu says the initiative strengthens Foxconn's position in delivering advanced AI data center solutions for leading customers in the AI race. The announcement follows Nvidia's developer conference in Washington, D.C., underscoring closer collaboration between hardware makers and the chip-AI ecosystem.

Elon Musk launches AI-powered Grokipedia to counter Wikipedia

October 28, 2025, 10:30 PM EDT. Elon Musk has unveiled Grokipedia, an AI-powered online encyclopedia designed to counter Wikipedia. NBC News' Gadi Schwartz and New York Times tech reporter Kate Conger explain how the site works and how it differs from the traditional encyclopedia, signaling Musk's push into AI-driven information platforms and fueling debate about reliability and governance in online knowledge.

Quest v83 PTC Brings Evolved Horizon OS Navigator UI Teased at Connect 2025

October 28, 2025, 10:28 PM EDT. Meta's Horizon OS v83 PTC introduces an evolved Navigator UI for Quest headsets, teased at Connect 2025. The Public Test Channel delivers a pre-release Horizon OS build with an updated Worlds tab for Horizon Worlds destinations and a redesigned Library that omits worlds from app lists in favor of interleaving offset rows similar to visionOS. Navigator now adds an overlay-level People tab and a You tab to manage friends and active status. The overhaul also brings a single, dim background when the overlay appears and a streamlined way to launch apps, with 2D windows remaining accessible alongside immersive content.

CNBC Daily Open: AI Boom, Bubble, and Market Bets Keep Investors Gripped

October 28, 2025, 10:26 PM EDT. Tech investors remain hooked on AI as Nvidia reveals a $1 billion stake in Nokia to fuel its AI push, while OpenAI completes restructuring and keeps Microsoft's stake in the for-profit arm near $135 billion. SK Hynix reports a record profit on AI fueled memory demand. U.S. indexes hit fresh highs as tech leads gains, lifting Apple and Microsoft above the $4 trillion market cap milestone. Nvidia's stake and OpenAI's reshaping highlight big bets on AI infrastructure. Analysts debate whether the rally is a boom or a bubble, while traders watch the Fed rate cut trajectory as gold enters correction territory and eyes on where it could go.

DJI Mini 3 Drone Deal: 20% Off at Amazon – $335 (Was $419)

October 28, 2025, 10:24 PM EDT. Grab the DJI Mini 3 drone at a rare Amazon deal. As of Oct. 10, the compact flyer is $335, down from its usual $419, a solid 20% off. This small-but-mighty drone blends portability with capable imaging, ideal for travelers and hobbyists. Act fast-deal pricing and stock can change after publication. Always verify current price on Amazon before checkout. Deals like this tend to sell out quickly, so if you've had your eye on the DJI Mini 3, this is a prime opportunity to save.

Samsung Exynos 2600 Benchmarks Claim 75% GPU Lead Over Apple A19 Pro, 6x NPU Boost

October 28, 2025, 10:22 PM EDT. Samsung's bid to revive the Exynos line centers on internal benchmarks that reportedly show a strong edge in AI and graphics. The Exynos 2600's NPU allegedly delivers over six times the performance of Apple's A19 Pro, while its multi-core CPU runs about 14% faster and the GPU is up to 75% stronger. When compared with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, the NPU and GPU are also said to outperform by 30% and 29%, respectively. Analysts caution that such tests were conducted in controlled environments and may not translate to real-world usage, where thermal throttling could dampen gains. Samsung's production plans and potential dual-sourcing add further market intrigue.

iOS 26: Pros and cons of the Liquid Glass redesign

October 28, 2025, 10:20 PM EDT. iOS 26 lands with the boldest design shift in years, introducing the Liquid Glass look and a host of features. But the upgrade is divisive: many users praise the refreshed UI and new capabilities, while others report increased battery drain and quirks. The update delivers notable pros like improved widgets, smarter automation, and developer-friendly changes, yet skeptics warn that once you go Liquid Glass there may be no going back. The decision to upgrade comes down to your device age, tolerance for first-generation bugs, and how much value you place on the new visuals versus battery life and app stability. If you rely on performance and longevity, you may want to wait; if you crave the latest design and features, iOS 26 could be worth it – at least for now.

Adobe Unveils AI Assistant in Express for Enterprise Creativity and Brand Control

October 28, 2025, 10:14 PM EDT. Adobe debuts an AI Assistant in Adobe Express aimed at enterprise workflows, enabling self-serve, on-brand content creation and collaboration across teams. New capabilities include template locking, batch creation, and a streamlined approval process, expanding the content supply chain for everyone. Customers including Workday, dentsu, and Lumen praised faster, higher-quality visuals created by simply describing what is needed, with non-designers and pros alike benefiting from the tool. Adobe emphasizes a creator-friendly, responsible approach to generative AI, viewing it as a tool that enhances creativity rather than replaces it. Availability starts with a beta on desktop for Express Premium, moving to GA for all Express customers via the Firefly credit system, plus purchasable credit packs to unlock more generation.

Galaxy S26 may pack Bluetooth 6.1 via new Exynos S6568 chip

October 28, 2025, 10:12 PM EDT. Samsung's Galaxy S26 lineup is expected to ship with the Exynos 2600 in most regions and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in others. A new chipset, the Exynos S6568, has appeared on the Bluetooth SIG site with Bluetooth 6.1 and Wi-Fi support to accompany an Exynos Application Processor, such as the Exynos 2600. Bluetooth 6.1 was announced in May and promises better security and power efficiency than 6.0, though no devices have adopted it yet. If true, offloading Bluetooth and Wi-Fi duties to the S6568 could improve the power efficiency, performance, and thermals of the 2600, potentially boosting battery life and reducing heat. Samsung is rumored to launch the Galaxy S26 in March 2025, but details remain speculative until more certifications surface.

Hidden iOS 26 features Apple didn't tell you about – and why you should try them now

October 28, 2025, 10:10 PM EDT. Apple's iOS 26 hides a suite of practical tweaks that quietly boost daily use. You can finally set any snooze duration, craft custom ringtones right from Files or Voice Memos, and copy only the exact text you need in Messages. Maps now tracks your visits locally under Visited Places, and you can see charging estimates on the Lock Screen and in Battery settings to plan quick top-ups. Adaptive Power Mode balances speed and efficiency without manual toggles. Screenshots gain context with Visual Intelligence-tap the preview to send to ChatGPT, perform image searches, or trigger actions like Add to Calendar. Live Call Screening on iPhone lets you preview unknown calls with a real-time transcript before answering.

LG Energy Solution Launches 5-Minute EV Battery Check with B.once Diagnostic Platform

October 28, 2025, 10:08 PM EDT. LG Energy Solution unveils B.once, a 5-minute battery diagnostic platform for EVs. Using its industry-leading BMS engineering and a patent portfolio of over 10,000, B.once monitors key health metrics – remaining capacity, voltage, and temperature – at 5-minute intervals. The service has two modules: Quick Scan, which delivers results in about 5 minutes by plugging into the vehicle and turning on the engine; and Power Scan, which analyzes charging data to produce a detailed report in roughly 30 minutes. Targeting warranty programs and battery-based insurance, the platform supports high-throughput used-car markets and service centers while expanding LG's global software-and-services strategy alongside hardware to mature the EV ecosystem.

Palantir and NVIDIA Team Up to Operationalize AI – Turning Enterprise Data into Dynamic Decision Intelligence

October 28, 2025, 10:06 PM EDT. Palantir teams with NVIDIA to embed GPU-accelerated processing into Palantir Ontology, powering the Palantir AI Platform (AIP) with CUDA-X libraries and Nemotron open models. The joint stack aims to deliver operational AI – including analytics, reference workflows, automation features, and customizable AI agents – to complex enterprise and government systems. By uniting Ontology with NVIDIA's accelerated computing and route-optimization tools, customers gain context-aware reasoning to turn data into decision intelligence across retailers, healthcare, financial services, and the public sector. Lowe's is piloting the approach to create a dynamic digital replica of its supply chain, enabling continual AI optimization. Executives highlight a shared vision of turning enterprise data into action, driving agility, cost savings, and better customer experiences.

Feds Probe Tesla's 'Mad Max' Mode as Regulators Review Self-Driving Safety

October 28, 2025, 10:04 PM EDT. Federal regulators are scrutinizing Tesla after a firmware update added the Mad Max mode to its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. While Sloth slows down, Mad Max allegedly ignores speed limits and can drift into oncoming lanes. The NHTSA has opened a new investigation, asking for details about the mode and noting that the human driver remains responsible. The probe follows dozens of Autopilot incidents and a recent wrongful death lawsuit in which a Tesla reportedly ran a stop sign at 62 mph and struck a couple. Critics claim Tesla prioritizes aesthetics and sales over safety. Regulators warn against dangerous automation and remind manufacturers of their duties.

Apple Maps EV routing expands to Toyota 2023+ BEVs in CarPlay

October 28, 2025, 10:02 PM EDT. Apple announces EV routing with Apple Maps in CarPlay and today expands to Toyota BEVs from 2023 and newer. The feature tracks your vehicle's charge while you drive, analyzes elevation and other factors, and identifies charging stations along the route, including real-time availability for supported providers in select regions. If your charge drops too low, Maps offers a route to the nearest compatible charger. Because integration with a vehicle's battery status is required, automaker participation has been incremental. The latest rollout follows Toyota's 2026 bZ launch and covers the bZ and its predecessors. This marks another step in broader EV routing adoption across automakers.

Slate Truck Gains Tesla Supercharger Access With Factory NACS Port

October 28, 2025, 10:00 PM EDT. Slate confirms its truck will access Tesla Superchargers via a factory-installed NACS port located on the driver's-side rear, letting owners plug in without a dongle. The port's placement mirrors Tesla's, enabling normal parking at stations. This makes Slate one of several automakers adopting the NACS ecosystem and gaining broader charging options. The truck supports up to 120 kW charging with a base range of 150 miles, upgradeable to 240 miles. While not a long-range road-trip vehicle, the Slate should be more convenient for city and suburban use, with increased charging flexibility contributing to a smoother ownership experience.

NVIDIA Unveils NVQLink: Quantum-Integrated Hybrid Computing for Future Science

October 28, 2025, 9:58 PM EDT. At NVIDIA's GTC, Jensen Huang unveiled NVQLink, a hybrid architecture that fuses classical GPUs with early quantum systems to accelerate science. The program joins private partners such as Atom Computing, Quantinuum, Rigetti, QuEra, IonQ, Silicon Quantum Computing, Quantum Circuits, and others to provide stabilized qubits and hardware. NVIDIA, Oracle, and Energy Secretary Chris Wright plan two AI-ready supercomputers at Argonne National Laboratory-Solstice (100,000 GPUs) and Equinox (10,000 GPUs)-targeted for operation in H1 2026. Huang framed this as a platform shift toward GPU-based computing and quantum-classical integration that will power future science. The effort spotlights a move to hybrid computing, enabling improved error correction and shared data between quantum processors and GPU supercomputers.

The best iPhone experience in 2025 doesn't come from Apple – Oppo Find X9 Pro shines

October 28, 2025, 9:56 PM EDT. OPPO's Find X9 Pro is a standout flagship that overdelivers. It combines top-tier hardware with real-world performance that can rival the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The phone wears a sturdy build with IP69 water resistance, Gorilla Glass on front and back, and a light, slim 224-gram frame. Oppo adds a Snap Key and a Quick Camera button for fast shortcuts, while ColorOS 16 borrows Apple's clean UI cues to feel familiar yet flexible. The piece argues Oppo's software-hardware balance delivers an "unapologetic homage to iOS" that actually works, making the Find X9 Pro a compelling alternative to the iPhone. In short: aggressive specs, thoughtful extras, and a refined experience redefine what a premium Android flagship can be.

Nvidia bets on national security with Palantir, 6G partnerships

October 28, 2025, 9:52 PM EDT. Nvidia says it is expanding its role in national security by teaming up with defense contractor Palantir Technologies and pursuing AI-native 6G telecom systems for the United States. CEO Jensen Huang outlined the plan at GTC DC in Washington, signaling a deeper push into defense and telecom infrastructure where AI chips power advanced analytics, cyber defense, and secure communications. The partnerships with Palantir Technologies aim to accelerate data integration and mission-ready intelligence, while the 6G initiative focuses on AI-enabled networks designed for critical government and defense applications. Nvidia frames these moves as bolstering national security through advanced hardware and software, leveraging its AI chips to support U.S. strategic priorities.

Quantum Stocks Slump as Nvidia-DOE AI Supercomputer Pact Emerges

October 28, 2025, 9:50 PM EDT. Nvidia unveiled an NVQLink architecture to connect quantum computers with GPU supercomputers for error correction, calibration, control, and simulations. The company framed it as a future-enabled partnership between QPUs and GPUs. Rigetti Computing and IonQ were cited as partners in Nvidia's press release, but shares reversed course after Jensen Huang announced a DOE partnership to build seven AI supercomputers. The move isn't a direct quantum product but a complementary effort, analysts say. The selloff reflects a misreading that AI supercomputers and quantum machines are in head-to-head competition. As traders shift from perpetual optimism to caution, the quantum-stock rally appears to have cooled despite ongoing dialogue about synergy between GPUs and QPUs.

Apple Joins The Game Awards Advisory Board as 14th Member

October 28, 2025, 9:48 PM EDT. Apple has been named the latest member of The Game Awards Advisory Board, becoming the 14th company on the board that helps guide the show's mission without influencing nominees or winners. The update on The Game Awards site lists Apple alongside Activision, AMD, EA, Epic Games, Kojima Productions, Xbox Game Studios, Nintendo, Riot, Rockstar Games, SIE, Tencent, Ubisoft, and Valve. Apple has stepped up its gaming push with a dedicated iOS app, Apple Games, and Apple Arcade. The company's first-ever acquisition of a video game developer happened this summer, though officials say it signals no shift in strategy. The Game Awards will stream from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Thursday, December 11, 2025, following last year's record 154 million livestreams and host Geoff Keighley.

AFP develops AI tool to decode Gen Z slang to curb online exploitation

October 28, 2025, 9:46 PM EDT. The Australian Federal Police will develop an AI tool with Microsoft to interpret emojis and Gen Z and Alpha slang in encrypted communications, with the aim of spotting sadistic online exploitation and disrupt the so-called crimefluencers. AFP commissioner Krissy Barrett will outline at the National Press Club how networks of young men groom vulnerable girls, trading content and pushing more extreme acts for online status. The prototype is designed to make it quicker to identify offenders and rescue children from harm. Authorities note arrests of offenders aged 17-20 and place emphasis on parental involvement and practical safety steps. Barrett also links youth radicalisation to broader security concerns, highlighting how AI is increasingly shaping cybercrime prevention and child protection efforts.

Louisiana residents clash with rising energy costs as Meta builds massive AI data center

October 28, 2025, 9:42 PM EDT. Residents of Richland Parish in Louisiana are voicing concerns as Meta builds its largest AI data center in the country, a $10 billion project that could spike energy costs and utility bills. Construction noise and traffic have turned quiet evenings into disruptions, while state regulators note the center's power demand could lift bills for about 1.1 million Entergy Louisiana customers. Officials say the site could consume roughly three times the electricity the city of New Orleans uses annually. Some households report small bill increases – about $13 more per month – adding to worries about nationwide impacts as new data centers come online. Meta counters that it is reducing bill impacts with aid programs and pledges infrastructure investment and partnerships with local schools, while regulators weigh steps to protect consumers.

'Peacetime CEO': Microsoft and OpenAI Resolve Major Dispute Ahead of Earnings

October 28, 2025, 9:40 PM EDT. Microsoft and OpenAI have reportedly settled a major dispute ahead of earnings, ending tensions that threatened their AI partnership. The so-called 'peacetime' moment signals renewed collaboration as both companies prepare to report results. Investors had feared friction over pricing, governance, or access to models; management now emphasizes stability and a clearer roadmap for Azure integration and ongoing AI innovation. The settlement may influence the enterprise go-to-market strategy, licensing terms, and the fiscal impact on upcoming earnings, while underscoring the evolving dynamics between tech platforms and AI startups in shaping the industry's growth trajectory.

Nvidia unveils blueprint for AI factories and AI-native 6G towers

October 28, 2025, 9:38 PM EDT. At its GTC keynote, Nvidia laid out how it plans to embed AI across everyday life-from powering data centers to building AI factories that rival Oracle, Microsoft and Google in scale. Nvidia's roadmap includes a new blueprint for how to construct gigascale AI data centers, and the company will open an AI Factory Research Center in Virginia. Beyond infrastructure, Nvidia announced a partnership with T-Mobile and Nokia to deploy AI-native 6G cell towers, featuring its Aerial RAN computer, chips and software. CEO Jensen Huang argues there's no AI bubble, claiming AI is profitable as users pay for advanced tools. The move signals Nvidia's ambition to become central to wireless networks, robotics, and autonomous systems while facing competition and policy hurdles.

NHTSA Probes Tesla Mad Max Mode as Driver Must Remain in Control

October 28, 2025, 9:36 PM EDT. Tesla's Mad Max driving profile has drawn regulatory scrutiny as the NHTSA opens a probe, requesting details on the Speed Profile and reiterating that the driver must stay in ultimate control. The piece compares Mad Max to other high-performance modes, noting it is optional and requires attentive operation, unlike Full Self-Driving (Supervised). The author discusses personal experience using Mad Max since its Early Access Program, describing aggressive lane changes and rapid acceleration, while still feeling reasonably safe. The article also references a tweet praising Tesla's FSD v14.1.2 testing, illustrating ongoing debate over automation vs. human oversight and the safety implications for drivers.

Wheelhome's Dashaway eRC evolves from Tesla rooftop pod to universal micro-camper trailer

October 28, 2025, 9:34 PM EDT. British camper specialist Wheelhome has expanded its Tesla-friendly rooftop pod into a more universal micro-camper trailer. The Dashaway eRC (electric roof camper) originally clung to the Model 3's arched roof, but the new Dashaway eCT can be towed by virtually any vehicle. Weight-conscious design features a compact fiberglass shell, replaced gelcoat with two-layer bed liner paint to save weight, and a total mass around 330 lb (150 kg). Inside, a standing-height cabin emerges from the Model 3's rear, with a two-seat sofa that converts into a 75 x 47 in bed, plus shelves, a portable power station, and room for appliances and a sink. A hidden portable toilet and cabinet space add practicality. The result blends aerodynamics, versatility, and off-grid camping in a compact package.

Elon Musk launches Grokipedia to rival Wikipedia: what to know

October 28, 2025, 9:32 PM EDT. Elon Musk has launched Grokipedia, a crowdsourced encyclopedia positioned as a rival to Wikipedia. Promoted on X as aiming for truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, the site is minimalist and reportedly powered by the same xAI model behind Grok. Unlike Wikipedia's volunteer editors, it's unclear how Grokipedia articles are produced, and some entries appear adapted from Wikipedia. Grokipedia lists about 885,000 articles, far fewer than English Wikipedia's multi-million corpus. While Wikipedia emphasizes primary-source citations, Grokipedia's sourcing varies in depth. The move highlights how AI-assisted knowledge platforms may shape information ecosystems, raising questions about bias, transparency, and the role of AI in public access to knowledge.

US tightens rules on Chinese telecom gear amid national security concerns

October 28, 2025, 9:30 PM EDT. The FCC voted to block new approvals for devices containing parts from companies on its Covered List and to empower removal of existing equipment in certain cases. The move could bar devices from Huawei, Hikvision, and other Chinese firms from American networks, as they are deemed a threat to national security. Officials say many such devices are tied to foreign adversaries and could enable surveillance or disruption of communications. The rule closes the modular transmitter loophole, preventing insecure Huawei, Hikvision, or other Covered List transmitters from being used as components within lawful devices. This action highlights the broader U.S.-China tech rivalry and ongoing security reviews ahead of high-level talks.

Nvidia CEO eyes AI factory partnerships with Samsung, Hyundai in Korea this week

October 28, 2025, 9:26 PM EDT. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said he expects to announce partnerships with prominent South Korean companies during his visit for the APEC CEO Summit. He highlighted ongoing ties with Samsung Electronics and Hyundai, saying they will invest in AI factories. Huang named other Korean players-LG, Naver, SK-as deep partners and suggested the announcements would please both the President Trump and Korea. The comments came as Nvidia prepared for the Nvidia Developer Conference in Washington and as Trump planned to meet Korean President Lee Jae Myung in Gyeongju. Huang characterized Korea as a dense partner ecosystem and indicated more news would come in coming days.

China's Battery Recycling Standards Hit 99%+ Recovery Rates, Reshaping EV Materials

October 28, 2025, 9:10 PM EDT. New pilot recycling program, backed by a 22-national-standard regulatory framework and a newly formed national technical committee, led by Chinese researchers, raises battery recycling efficiency to unprecedented levels. The standards unify supply, production, recycling, dismantling, and chemical processing across EVs, marine, and energy-storage sectors. The rules include titles like 'Vehicle power battery recycling and dismantling specification' and 'Vehicle power battery remaining energy detection,' providing clear procedures for retired batteries. Early results show recovery rates of 99.6% for nickel, cobalt, and manganese, and 96.5% for lithium, surpassing previous goals. If scaled, this could cut virgin mining, unlock domestic materials, and create jobs, while making used batteries a predictable source of critical materials. Critics point to policy gaps elsewhere, while the numbers speak to potential.

Sohn conference ideas: AI data-center bets, bitcoin ETF trade, and Coupang growth thesis

October 28, 2025, 8:52 PM EDT. At the Sohn San Francisco conference, managers pitched ideas spanning AI to a bitcoin long/short. Freestone Grove's Ravi Paidipaty highlighted Semtech Corporation as a winner in next-gen AI data center connectivity, forecasting roughly 65% EPS growth mid-term and margin expansion under new CEO Hong Hou. Another idea pairs a long/short bitcoin trade: buy a bitcoin ETF and short Strategy, a cloud software and bitcoin treasury company with about $70 billion in crypto, which trades at a sizable premium to its bitcoin holdings. Strategy's near 50% premium drew skepticism. On the e-commerce side, Louis Chang of Gavilan spotlighted Coupang as Korea's leading and rapidly growing platform with a virtuous flywheel; he sees shares potentially doubling in 3-5 years in the base case and tripling in the upside.

Why the Quantum Computing Hype Cannot Last for IonQ, Rigetti, and QBTS

October 28, 2025, 8:40 PM EDT. The article argues that the current rally in quantum computing stocks-IonQ (IONQ), Rigetti (RGTI), and D-Wave (QBTS)-is driven by cheaper capital, policy tailwinds, and real milestones, but the hype may not last. Recent gains ride on milestones like a reported 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity and a regulatory push via the Oxford Ionics M&A, fueling sentiment beyond fundamentals. Q3 results show continued growth targets for 2025 but also heavier losses as the company expands, and valuation remains rich (roughly 229x expected 2025 sales) with profitability years out. The piece cautions that earnings visibility and policy developments will be decisive, while analysts show a mix of Strong Buy signals and caveats.

AI Job Cuts Spark Debate: Is Artificial Intelligence Replacing Workers?

October 28, 2025, 8:38 PM EDT. Amazon's decision to slash thousands of corporate jobs, along with Chegg's 45% workforce cut and Salesforce's 4,000 call-center redundancies, has intensified warnings that AI is reshaping employment. UPS has also cut 48,000 roles over the past year, raising questions about whether AI is the driver or broader business dynamics. Critics like Martha Gimbel of Yale caution against drawing conclusions from company announcements alone. Some occupations seem more exposed, with a St. Louis Fed study linking higher AI prevalence to unemployment shifts, while Morgan Frank (Univ. of Pittsburgh) finds the impact is uneven: admin roles show effects after ChatGPT, but computer and maths jobs do not. The debate points to a broader pattern: long-running hiring cycles, rate fluctuations, and sector dynamics complicating attribution to AI.

Celestica CEO: AI boom is real – building AI infrastructure with Broadcom

October 28, 2025, 8:36 PM EDT. Celestica CEO Rob Mionis told CNBC's Jim Cramer that the company is laying the tracks for the AI boom by designing and manufacturing the infrastructure that powers AI. He argues the AI surge isn't a bubble but a shift from a nice to have to a must have. The company beat earnings and lifted its full-year outlook, helping the stock rally to a 52-week high. Celestica continues to pivot away from commodity markets toward design and manufacturing, enabling scalable execution. In data-center work, the company builds high-speed networking and storage systems for hyperscalers and digital-native customers. A key driver is its Broadcom partnership, using Broadcom silicon (e.g., Tomahawk 6 at 1.6 TB) to co-develop products for major hyperscalers.

Artemis 2 preparations at risk as government shutdown drags on

October 28, 2025, 8:34 PM EDT. NASA's Artemis 2 preparations could stall if the nearly month-long US government shutdown continues, industry officials warned. Work on the Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion is ongoing but faces growing risk as furloughs rise and contractors confront late payments. The shutdown's continuity of appropriations plan exempts Artemis tasks, yet Lockheed Martin's Kirk Shireman warned the impact could become significant soon. Smaller suppliers, he noted, may not survive unpaid periods. Potential spillovers include air-traffic delays as controllers work without pay, and funding pressures that could slow parts delivery. Meanwhile, Aerojet Rocketdyne expects to run hot-fire tests of RS-25 engines at Stennis Space Center, but the broader effects loom. A NASA Artemis 2 panel was canceled at the conference, shifting to industry-only discussions.

Gemini for Google TV expands to Streamer and more devices this winter

October 28, 2025, 8:32 PM EDT. Google is expanding Gemini for TV. Gemini for Google TV is rolling out this winter to more devices, starting with TCL QM9K on Google TV and extending to the Google TV Streamer, Walmart onn. 4K Pro, 2025 Hisense U7/U8/UX models, and 2025 TCL QM7K/QM8K/X11K. The experience is optimized for large screens, enabling free-flowing conversations, the ability to specify viewing preferences, search by description, and a recap feature with reviews. It can surface related YouTube videos for new topics, and Google promises more Gemini capabilities on TV coming soon. This marks a broader push of Gemini into living-room entertainment alongside other Google TV features.

Apple's iPhone 20 Rumored to ditch physical buttons for solid-state controls in 2027

October 28, 2025, 8:30 PM EDT. An unconfirmed report from leaker Instant Digital on Weibo claims future iPhones may eliminate physical buttons in favor of solid-state controls with local haptic feedback. The post, translated by 9to5Mac, says power, volume, operation, and camera controls would become tactile on-device sensors rather than mechanical switches, with mass production planned for the iPhone 20 in 2027. Apple did not respond to comment requests. The idea isn't new-Android phones have experimented with touch-sensitive surfaces, and HTC's U12 Plus in 2018 used haptic equivalents. Analysts like Patrick Holland at CNET note that haptic buttons reduce breakage risk and keep familiar feedback through vibration. Instant Digital's reliability is varied, but past rumors about buttonless iPhones surfaced for the iPhone 13 and iPhone 15 Pro.

Emma Thompson Slams AI Interference in Her Writing on The Late Show

October 28, 2025, 8:28 PM EDT. On The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Emma Thompson vented about AI intruding into her creative process. The Oscar-winning actress said she still writes by hand because she believes there's a link between the brain and the hand, then pastes her work into Word, which she says now constantly asks to rewrite. Thompson exclaimed, 'Just… off!' when asked to reveal how she copes with these prompts. She recalled a past scare when her Sense and Sensibility script, on computer, disappeared and reappeared as hieroglyphs before Stephen Fry helped recover it. Thompson's frustration underscores a broader debate about how AI could affect the craft of writing in Hollywood and beyond. Viewers can watch Thompson's remarks in the embedded clip.

Layoffs ripple through Amazon, UPS, Target and others as AI and tariffs reshape jobs

October 28, 2025, 8:24 PM EDT. Thousands of workers are being cut across Amazon (AMZN), UPS, Target, and other big names as an uncertain, AI-driven economy churns on. Amazon said it would cut about 14,000 corporate roles, offering internal transfers, severance, and benefits. UPS cut roughly 34,000 operational roles in the first nine months, plus about 14,000 management positions. Target plans to trim 1,800 corporate roles, and Paramount Skydance may shed over 1,000. Even AI stalwarts like Meta are reducing staff in AI units, while Rivian reportedly trims headcount. Factors include mergers, bureaucracy, and tariffs, along with AI-driven productivity. The labor market remains stubborn, with no-hire/no-fire dynamics and high long-term unemployment. As policy and tech shifts press against workers, companies push for efficiencies and reallocate roles.

Amazon Announces Biggest Corporate Layoffs in History as AWS Cuts 30,000 Roles

October 28, 2025, 8:22 PM EDT. Amazon is executing its largest corporate layoff in its 31-year history, cutting about 30,000 roles across AWS and corporate functions as a correction for earlier over-hiring during the COVID era. A memo from Senior VP Beth Galetti says the number in headlines should be read as a broader adjustment, with about 14,000 roles actually being slashed. The company frames the cuts as a response to the changing world and a shift toward AI-driven efficiency, ahead of its earnings report. The move sent Amazon's stock higher (about 1.25% on Tuesday). Former employees describe the process and severance realities, including COBRA concerns, while others vent on internal platforms about the personal impact.

Apple Releases macOS Tahoe 26.1 Release Candidate With AutoMix on AirPlay, FaceTime Upgrades, and Liquid Glass Tint

October 28, 2025, 8:20 PM EDT. Apple has issued a release candidate for macOS Tahoe 26.1, signaling a public launch likely next week. The update brings AutoMix support over AirPlay, improved FaceTime audio quality in low-bandwidth conditions, and a new Liquid Glass tint setting that adjusts opacity in apps and on the Lock Screen. It also enables Communication Safety and Web content filters by default for existing child accounts aged 13-17, with regional variations. Apple cautions that features may vary by device and region, and that updates can affect performance and battery life. For details on security updates, see Apple support notes; a public rollout could coincide with iOS/tvOS/watchOS 26.1 releases in the coming week.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 512GB Slashed by $570 Off on Samsung Official Store

October 28, 2025, 8:18 PM EDT. Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra (512GB) is currently discounted by $570 off on Samsung's official website. The sale applies to all colors and will show up when you choose not to trade in a device. The 6.9-inch LTPO AMOLED 2X display at 3,120 x 1,440 with a 120Hz refresh rate pairs with 12GB of RAM and up to 512GB storage. It sports a 200MP main camera, 100x Space Zoom, and includes the S Pen. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, it offers strong performance, long battery life, and a durable build (titanium frame, Gorilla Glass 2, IP68) with Samsung promising up to seven years of updates. Original price is $1,419.99-great savings for a top flagship in 2025.

Doom in Orbit: Ubuntu on ARM9 powers headless Doom on OPS-SAT

October 28, 2025, 8:14 PM EDT. At the Ubuntu Summit, developer Ólafur Waage demonstrated how to run Doom in space using an Ubuntu-based setup on the ESA OPS-SAT satellite. The unmanned, carry-on-sized satellite actually ran Ubuntu 18.04 LTS on a dual-core ARM9 processor, in a headless configuration with no display. Waage has documented the project in a YouTube video and pushed the source code to GitHub, including notes on making Doom run in a CI/CD pipeline, controlling pseudo-randomness and logging results for repeatability. The OPS-SAT mission, deorbited in 2024, serves as a quirky but illustrative demonstration of portability and long-lived software ports like Doom, Chocolate Doom, and other ports that extend to unlikely hardware.

Apple's 2026 iPad mini Could Add Water Resistance and OLED Display

October 28, 2025, 8:12 PM EDT. Bloomberg reports that Apple's next-generation iPad mini could gain water resistance similar to the iPhone, enabling casual use in wet environments. A redesigned casing would include a vibration-based speaker system with removable holes to cut water ingress. The iPad mini would rely on adhesive and gaskets for protection, unlike the iPhone's approach. The exact IP rating remains unknown, and Apple has not confirmed submersion specs. A 2026 update could also bring an OLED display and a higher price, potentially up to $100 more than the current model, which starts at $499. Apple last refreshed the iPad mini in 2024 (7th generation).

OPPO Unveils Find X9 Series Globally, Redefining Premium Smartphone Experience

October 28, 2025, 8:08 PM EDT. OPPO globally unveils the Find X9 Series, cementing its push into the premium smartphone segment. With a global user base surpassing 740 million, OPPO promises a complete experience across imaging, AI, battery life, and connectivity. The Find X9 Pro features a 200MP Hasselblad Telephoto camera for exceptional clarity, while ColorOS 16 adds AI Portrait Glow and AI Mind Space along with robust privacy protections. Market data from Counterpoint Research shows OPPO's ASP up 14% YoY in Q2 2025, reflecting premium-device momentum. IDC notes rising demand from young users reshaping mid-to-high-end roadmaps, which OPPO meets with advanced imaging, long-lasting power, and seamless cross-device connectivity. The Find X9 Series aims to turn smartphones into a true content studio for today's creators.

AI Backlash Is Here: Sophisticated Users Push Back Against Forced AI Features

October 28, 2025, 8:06 PM EDT. Tech workers and users are voicing fatigue over forced AI integrations that bloat tools and disrupt workflows. A Hacker News thread titled "I'm drowning in AI features I never asked for and I hate it" has drawn hundreds of comments, illustrating a growing revolt against AI-heavy UX. Analysts warn that burnout and cognitive overload-driven by rapid AI rollouts-may slow the AI gold rush more than regulation. Case in point: Google's switch to Gemini, AI clutter in Google Sheets, Atlassian Confluence's intrusive button, Firefox's AI context menus, and Siri alert summaries. Studies from Asana, Pew, and KPMG show high digital exhaustion, job anxiety, and 'change fatigue' as deployments quadruple. Experts caution that AI can ease burnout in some areas but fuel it in others if UX remains bloated.

Battlefield 6 Season 1 Battle Pass: All Rewards, Paths, and Instant Unlocks

October 28, 2025, 8:04 PM EDT. Get up to speed with the Battlefield 6 Season 1 Battle Pass, featuring over 100 tiers of rewards across six paths. Earn weapons, skins, boosters, and more as you progress through the Recruit path, Rogue Operators path, Deniable Ops path, Soldiers of Fortune path, Pacific Ghosts path, plus the two end-game tracks Ultimate path and Prestige path. The season also includes instant unlocks to jump-start your grind. This guide breaks down which rewards appear at each tier, how the path rewards differ, and tips to maximize XP and challenges. Whether you chase early access via instant unlocks or aim to complete every path, you'll unlock legendary cosmetics and powerful gear to elevate your loadout.

Nvidia Bets $1 Billion on Nokia: What It Means for AI, 5G/6G and Investors

October 28, 2025, 8:02 PM EDT. Nvidia's $1 billion stake in Nokia signals a high-profile vote of confidence as Nokia stock rockets and the two firms align on 5G/6G tech and AI-driven networks. The deal envisions Nokia hardware and software optimized to run on Nvidia processors, with joint efforts to advance AI initiatives for IoT and robotics. As the leading AI hardware supplier, Nvidia's backing could accelerate Nokia's expansion into next-gen connectivity and edge AI applications, while giving Nvidia a stronger foothold in telecom infrastructure. Yet investors should temper expectations: past stakes in other Nvidia-backed firms have seen rapid shifts as 13F activity shows liquidity changes. The partnership remains meaningful even if the stock move overshoots near-term gains, given potential real-world AI deployments across networks.

OpenAI completes restructure into a for-profit public benefit company

October 28, 2025, 8:00 PM EDT. OpenAI has completed its transition into a for-profit entity structured as a public benefit corporation, a move that clears a major hurdle toward a possible IPO and aligns the startup with peers like Anthropic and xAI. The change, capped after a lengthy legal process, introduces a more traditional corporate framework while preserving a focus on public good. CEO Sam Altman says the new structure will ease fundraising and speed up advanced research, with plans to unveil an AI-powered intern-level assistant by next fall. The shift has intensified attention on valuation dynamics, including Microsoft's stake and the potential for rapid capital infusions to accelerate breakthroughs.

NanoPhone: a credit-card-sized smartphone with full-size features for $109.99

October 28, 2025, 7:58 PM EDT. Sponsored deal: The NanoPhone is a credit-card-sized smartphone that stays fully functional on 4G networks. It delivers core phone and internet features in a pocketable form factor, so you can stay connected without the bulk. The current offer drops to $109.99 from $199.99, a Save $90 savings. Pricing and availability can change after publication. Great as a compact backup or ultra-portable daily driver, NanoPhone packs real smartphone capability into a tiny package.

Best mic deal: DJI Mic Mini bundle at Amazon drops to $99 – lowest price yet

October 28, 2025, 7:56 PM EDT. Looking for a creator-approved wireless mic? The DJI Mic Mini bundle (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) is $99 at Amazon, down from $169-a 41% discount and the lowest price we've seen. This compact setup is ideal for vlogging, streaming, and on-the-go interviews, delivering reliable audio without cables. Deal pricing and availability can change after publication.

SK Hynix posts record Q3 revenue and profit on AI-driven memory demand

October 28, 2025, 7:54 PM EDT. SK Hynix posted record quarterly revenue of 24.45 trillion won and operating profit of 11.38 trillion won for Q3, up 39% and 62% year-on-year respectively, with QoQ gains of 10% in revenue and 24% in profit. The company has benefited from a boom in artificial intelligence as a key supplier of high-bandwidth memory (HBM) used in AI data-center servers. HBM helps Nvidia-powered systems, cementing SK Hynix's lead in the DRAM market alongside rivals Micron and Samsung. CFO Kim Woohyun said demand is expanding across memory segments and that the company will maintain its AI memory leadership with market-leading products. Analysts see the HBM market rising toward about $43 billion by 2027.

NCTA CEO: Strengthen U.S. Internet Infrastructure to Win the Global AI Race

October 28, 2025, 7:42 PM EDT. Gardner warns the United States must strengthen its internet infrastructure to win the global AI race. He argues that if China leads in any form of internet infrastructure, it will soon gain the edge in AI as well. Speaking for NCTA-The Internet & Television Association-Cory Gardner urged faster investments in broadband and networks and emphasized policy reforms to keep the U.S. competitive in tomorrow's tech landscape.

Venmo to enable rent, mortgage and retail payments via Bilt Rewards partnership

October 28, 2025, 7:38 PM EDT. Venmo is expanding beyond peer-to-peer transfers. Starting in 2026, Venmo users can pay rent and mortgage bills and shop at local merchants through the app, via a first-of-its-kind partnership with Bilt Rewards. The collaboration will let members pay directly from their balance or linked methods, and extend Venmo to Bilt's network of over 45,000 merchants, unlocking almost 100 million Venmo users for neighborhood purchases. Bilt Points can be earned and redeemed for travel, home decor, and more. PayPal, which owns Venmo, calls this a step toward turning Venmo into an everyday commerce platform, while expanding recurring expense payments for renters and property managers.

Elon Musk's Grokipedia: AI-Generated Encyclopedia, Censorship, and the White Genocide Debate

October 28, 2025, 7:34 PM EDT. A look at Elon Musk's foray into AI-driven information with Grokipedia, an AI-generated encyclopedia created by Musk's company xAI and written by the Grok model. The piece argues that Grokipedia treats terms like "white genocide theory" as empirical and claims mainstream outlets suppress such discussions due to media bias. It traces Musk's broader strategy-from turning Twitter into X to releasing the Grok chatbot as a counterweight to perceived left-wing biases-and questions transparency and accountability in AI-curated content. The article connects these developments to tech policy, platform responsibility, and the risk of amplifying extremist narratives under the banner of challenging "legacy media lies."

Indexes Score Record Highs Ahead of Fed Decision as Nvidia Clears Key Level

October 28, 2025, 7:24 PM EDT. A broad stock rally sent Indexes to record highs ahead of the Fed rate decision. Traders eyed earnings from the Magnificent Seven – Alphabet, Meta Platforms, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon – plus a notable move as Nvidia cleared a key level. Microsoft also highlighted mega-cap strength, with its market capitalization nearing $4 trillion. The session underscored resilience in tech leadership as investors weigh guidance and macro risks ahead of policy decisions.

Senators propose GUARD Act to ban under-18s from AI chatbots and mandate age verification

October 28, 2025, 7:22 PM EDT. Senators Josh Hawley and Richard Blumenthal introduced the GUARD Act to require AI companies to verify users' ages and bar anyone under 18 from using AI chatbots. Verification could involve uploading a government ID or other reasonable methods, including potential facial scans. The bill also requires chatbots to disclose every 30 minutes that they are not human and adds safeguards against deceptive claims of humanity. It would outlaw chatbots that produce sexual content for minors or promote self-harm, with criminal and civil penalties for noncompliance. The proposal follows safety hearings and reflects a broader push for tougher AI safety rules on tech platforms.

SK Hynix posts record Q3 profit as AI boom drives HBM4 plans

October 28, 2025, 7:20 PM EDT. South Korea's SK Hynix posted a record Q3 profit as the AI boom lifted demand for both advanced chips and traditional products. The company reported an 11.4 trillion won operating profit for July-September, up 62% year on year, with revenue of 24.4 trillion won. The result met the forecast from LSEG SmartEstimate. SK Hynix said it completed discussions with key customers on HBM supply for next year and plans to begin HBM4 shipments in Q4 after development and mass production. A full-scale HBM4 sales expansion is targeted for next year.

Nissan and Lithion advance Canada EV battery recycling with hydrometallurgy

October 28, 2025, 7:18 PM EDT. Nissan Canada partners with Lithion Technologies to localize EV battery recycling in Canada. Using a closed-loop, water-based hydrometallurgical process, the program recovers lithium, nickel, cobalt, and graphite from end-of-life batteries, enabling up to 95% material recovery and 98% purification of critical minerals for reuse in new cells. The initiative aims to reduce dependence on mining, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and strengthen a circular economy by reinserting recovered materials into the supply chain. The collaboration builds on Lithion's track record with Hyundai Canada and positions Canada's clean tech sector to support sustainable mobility and domestic recycling of used batteries.

Battlefield 6 REDSEC sparks backlash on Steam as players rail against forced Battle Royale and Battle Pass gating

October 28, 2025, 6:48 PM EDT. Battlefield 6's REDSEC spin on Battle Royale launched on Steam to a mixed response: strong player numbers but widespread backlash over Battle Pass gating and weekly challenges. In the first hours, REDSEC drew over 500,000 players and accumulated 760 confirmed reviews, with a 50% rating at press time. Critics say many challenges aren't tied to core modes and that players must engage with REDSEC to progress the main Battle Pass, effectively forcing BR play. Some complaints note that attempts to complete weekly challenges in the main game aren't counted, and the experience clashed with Battlefield 6's grounded vibe. The debate centers on whether a free-to-play add-on should drive progression in the paid core game, leaving DICE under scrutiny for the launch strategy.

CampusAI at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: closing the AI training gap for everyday workers

October 28, 2025, 6:46 PM EDT. CampusAI is narrowing the AI training gap by offering an educational platform designed for non-technical workers, enabling them to bring AI into everyday workflows-from sales and HR to legal and personal branding. The Warsaw startup showcases two main products: an online ecosystem with avatar-based courses and a metaverse campus where users learn, connect, and collaborate (think Roblox for adults). It provides access to dozens of models (ChatGPT, Gemini, Midjourney, Flux) in one place, with daily course updates. The consumer offering, Me+AI, costs $250/year, while the business product, Team+AI, is priced at $25,000/year. Programs cover a 3-week AI readiness assessment and a 4-week personalized path aligned to company goals. CampusAI is a Startup Battlefield Top 20 finalist at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025.

SpaceX Falcon Heavy to launch Astrobotic Griffin Moon Lander in 2026, CLPS mission slips to mid-2026

October 28, 2025, 6:34 PM EDT. SpaceX's Falcon Heavy is slated to lift Astrobotic's private Griffin-1 lunar lander on a mission under NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program. The target window has moved to no earlier than July 2026, after a late-2025 deadline slipped. Griffin will carry NASA and commercial payloads, including Astrobotic's CubeRover and Astrolab's FLIP rover, plus the Nippon Travel Agency plaque, the Galactic Library from Nanofiche, and the MoonBox capsule with items from around the world. Assembly and testing continue at Astrobotic's facility, with four propellant tanks awaiting installation and several propulsion and avionics checks underway. The delay highlights the CLPS program's reliance on private lunar delivery, the lessons from Peregrine's 2024 mishap, and evolving plans around VIPER and Blue Origin toward Artemis-era goals.

Nvidia Near $5 Trillion Valuation After GTC Announcements and New Partnerships

October 28, 2025, 6:32 PM EDT. Nvidia is closing in on a record $5 trillion market value after a flurry of announcements at its GTC event. The stock jumped about 5% as the company unveiled a wave of innovations across computing, robotics, vehicles and medicine, and announced partnerships with Uber, Palantir, Nokia and Oracle. CEO Jensen Huang highlighted the company's expanding ecosystem as a hedge against AI bubble fears, while investors eye a projected $3 trillion in capital expenditure to build data centers and AI capabilities. Nvidia's market value stood at about $4.89 trillion the previous day. The report also notes Microsoft's growing stake in OpenAI, underscoring broader AI infrastructure bets that tie chips, software, and cloud providers into a single growth narrative.

Super Teacher unveils AI tutor for elementary schools at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

October 28, 2025, 6:30 PM EDT. Super Teacher, led by former Google PM Tim Novikoff, is building an AI-powered tutoring app for elementary students that costs $15/month (or $10 with annual). The startup aims to democratize access to private tutoring, addressing the high cost that keeps many families left out. About 20,000 families have signed up, and districts in New York, New Jersey, and Hawaii already use the app. At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 in San Francisco, Super Teacher earned a Startup Battlefield Top 20 spot. Unlike many edtech tools, its content comes from a deterministic system designed to avoid LLM inaccuracies, and the team views AI tutors as a tool to empower teachers, not replace them. Plans include expanding to more grades and districts.

Apple preparing OLED display upgrades for MacBook Air, iPad Air, and iPad mini

October 28, 2025, 6:26 PM EDT. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman indicates Apple is testing OLED displays for three upcoming devices: the MacBook Air, iPad Air, and iPad mini, with the iPad mini likely leading the switch. OLED would broaden Apple's use beyond iPhone, iPad Pro, and Apple Watch, while Apple Vision Pro uses micro-OLED. A first OLED MacBook Pro is rumored, but Apple reportedly won't shift the line until the M6 Pro/Max family, targeting 2027; the earliest OLED MacBook Air could arrive in 2028. The iPad mini is also said to gain a water-resistant design and a new speaker system that uses vibration tech to eliminate holes. Price implications could place an OLED iPad mini around $599, with potential bumps for the iPad Air as well.

What Amazon's Mass Layoffs Reveal About AI, Efficiency, and the Future of Work

October 28, 2025, 6:24 PM EDT. Amazon is cutting tens of thousands of jobs as it tries to "operate like the world's largest startup," a move echoed by other profitable giants amid high costs, tariffs, and a shaky macro backdrop. The cuts, announced alongside a broader push toward AI-driven productivity, come even as Amazon says AI was not the primary driver of most layoffs (about 14,000). Analysts caution that the AI hype may outpace real gains, even as CEO Andy Jassy warns that the AI-enabled future should transform the workplace. The workforce rebalancing reflects a mix of strategic tightening and uncertainty about efficiency and returns, mirroring actions by UPS, Target, Microsoft, and Meta. Ultimately, the move signals a bet on efficiency and a test of whether AI can deliver durable productivity gains.

Verizon's Home Internet Lite: $25/month for light usage with bundle and AutoPay

October 28, 2025, 6:22 PM EDT. Verizon is rolling out Home Internet Lite, a slower plan aimed at light use and customers with limited options. The base price is $60/month, but you can drop to $25/month by bundling with a phone plan, enabling AutoPay, and signing up before Dec. 31. If you meet requirements, you can lock this price for three years; some customers may qualify for as low as $20/month through the Verizon Forward program, including those on certain federal assistance programs like SNAP. Speeds top out at 25 Mbps before a data cap of 150GB, after which speeds drop to 10 Mbps. Compared with Mint Mobile and T-Mobile offerings at similar price points, Verizon's plan emphasizes value over speed and is delivered over the company's cellular network, not Fios. It's best for light browsing, emails, and streaming.

Apple's Services Revenue on Track to Top $100 Billion, Surpassing Tesla, Disney, and Pepsi

October 28, 2025, 6:20 PM EDT. Apple has reduced its reliance on the iPhone by growing a high-margin services business, which now includes the App Store, Apple Pay, Apple TV+, AppleCare, Apple Arcade, and Apple Music. In the latest quarter, services revenue reached $27.4 billion, a 426% rise since 2021. If projections hold, the full fiscal year could exceed $108.6 billion, marking the first time services exceed $100B in a 12-month period. That level of revenue would outrun standalone firms like Tesla, Disney, and Pepsi, which post roughly $92-97B annually. The growth is aided by a larger iOS installed base boosting monetization per device, and a notable driver is the Google search deal.

Google's Gemini for Home: A Make-or-Break Moment for Smart Homes

October 28, 2025, 6:18 PM EDT. Google's smart-home narrative shifts with Gemini for Home, a new AI-powered assistant rolling out in early access. After nearly a decade of modest updates and a sputtering Google Home app that sparked a potential lawsuit, Gemini is pitched as an AI upgrade that transcends traditional Google Assistant. Built on Google's Gemini LLM, it aims for more natural, back-and-forth conversations and a stronger grip on media, household coordination, and smart-home control. Google promises Gemini moves beyond note-taking to a proactive partner that understands the intent behind your calendars, lists, timers, and reminders. Still, questions remain whether the AI can deliver on lofty claims, especially after Siri-style missteps.

Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z TriFold: A Dual-Fold 6.5" to 10" Foldable Smartphone

October 28, 2025, 6:14 PM EDT. Samsung unveiled its Galaxy Z TriFold, a tri-fold foldable smartphone that grows from a 6.5-inch handset into a 10-inch tablet-sized display. The device folds twice, with an unfolded thickness around 4.2mm and 1.2-1.5 cm when folded; the crease lines are said to be barely noticeable. Production could begin as early as next month, with a launch before the end of 2026. Analysts estimate a price near $2,800. Photos surfaced from The Chosun Daily during APEC 2025 Korea, while official details remain thin. The model is expected to be positioned as a premium, iterative step beyond current foldables.

Apple Expands OLED Displays to iPad Mini, iPad Air, and MacBook Models

October 28, 2025, 6:08 PM EDT. According to Bloomberg, Apple is planning to extend OLED displays to the iPad mini, iPad Air, and future MacBook models beyond the iPad Pro. The iPad mini could switch to OLED as early as 2026, with higher water resistance a possibility. The iPad Air is not expected to move to OLED in 2026; the next spring model will remain LCD, with OLED arriving later-likely no sooner than 2027. Apple also targets OLED for the MacBook Pro in a future update (potentially 2026), followed by the MacBook Air (earliest 2028). There are no plans to bring OLED to the low-cost iPad.

Jimmy Wales skeptical of Elon Musk's Grokipedia; LLMs can't replace Wikipedia yet

October 28, 2025, 6:06 PM EDT. Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales says he's not worried about Elon Musk's Grokipedia and refuses to conflate it with the trusted, community-driven encyclopedia. He argues that current LLMs like ChatGPT aren't capable of writing reliable wiki entries, and he notes the cost disparity between Wikipedia's operation and massive AI investments. Wales also defends source neutrality against allegations of woke bias, saying they treat credible sources (and not random crackpots) accordingly. He highlighted examples where AI-generated results are plausibly wrong, even for obscure questions about non-famous individuals. Overall, he expects Grokipedia to underperform and emphasizes the need for rigorous verification and human oversight to keep information trustworthy.

Survey Finds Gap Between Network Security Awareness and Action in 2025 Broadband Genie Findings

October 28, 2025, 6:02 PM EDT. A 2025 Broadband Genie survey cited by GBHackers News reveals a gulf between knowledge of network security and action. Among 3,242 respondents, 81% have never changed their router's default administrator password, 84% have never updated their router firmware, 69% never changed their WiFi password, and 85% still use default network names. Although 79% know how to adjust router settings, 73% do not understand why changes are necessary, highlighting an ongoing awareness gap. Only 31% regularly check which devices are connected, and many have never altered any factory settings. McAfee's Oliver Devane warns routers are the primary gateway to home devices, calling for better education, greater transparency from manufacturers, and clearer interfaces to narrow the gap.

Apple Unveils 2025 iPad: 11-Inch Model Drops to $299 with A16 Chip

October 28, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Amazon is clearing out the 2025 iPad 11-inch with the A16 chip, 128GB storage and Wi-Fi for just $299, placing it near budget Android tablets. Inside is Apple's A16 (from the iPhone 14 Pro/15) with a 5-core CPU, 4-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, plus 6GB RAM. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display runs at 2360×1640, 264 PPI, 500 nits, with True Tone. Storage is expanded to 128GB; rear is 12MP 4K video, front is 12MP Ultra Wide with Center Stage. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB-C (USB 2.0 speeds). A fingerprint ID in the power button handles unlock, and the battery lasts a full day of use. All of this plugs into the iPadOS ecosystem.

Amazon's TV and movie arm hit during broad layoffs

October 28, 2025, 5:58 PM EDT. As part of Amazon's broad layoffs, the company's TV and movie arm was affected. The move highlights a broader restructuring across Amazon as it tightens budgets and reallocates resources. Details remain limited, but the development suggests financial and strategic pressure on the entertainment unit. Industry watchers say staffing levels, production pipelines, and content development could face adjustments as leadership focuses on efficiency and profitability in a competitive streaming landscape. With public disclosures sparse, the impact on specific projects or teams within the entertainment division remains unclear, even as Amazon refines its approach to original programming and broader media investment.

Experts warn of AI-driven scams after viral Ferndale 'hidden fortune' post

October 28, 2025, 5:46 PM EDT. Experts are warning about the dangers of AI-driven scams following a viral social media post about a fictional 'hidden fortune' in Ferndale. The post claimed a local entrepreneur left clues across the city, prompting calls to the Ferndale Police Department and coverage by CBS News Detroit. While the tale appears fake, researchers note such emotionally charged posts spread quickly, with many users skipping research. Layla Ferris of CBS News Confirmed cautions people to verify information and practice due diligence before sharing. As AI tools advance, misinformation can spread more easily; experts urge skepticism, quick verification, and responsible sharing to blunt the impact of fake treasure hunts and related scams.

Starbase Pad 1 Demolition Begins Ahead of Next-Gen Upgrades (SpaceX)

October 28, 2025, 5:44 PM EDT. SpaceX is advancing its Starbase program as Pad 1 at the Boca Chica site begins demolition to clear way for Next-Gen upgrades. The teardown marks a key milestone for the Starbase complex, with anticipated enhancements to infrastructure, manufacturing lines, and testing capabilities for the Starship program. NASASpaceFlight reports the initial demolition paves the way for modernization while testing continues at the Texas site. As work progresses, observers expect updated facilities to support higher-rate launches and larger vehicles, reinforcing SpaceX's push toward accelerated flight operations.

Nvidia's BlueField 4: Grace CPU-powered AI Factory OS with 800 Gbps Throughput

October 28, 2025, 5:42 PM EDT. Nvidia unveils BlueField 4, a next-gen processor designed as the operating system for AI factories. The platform delivers about 800 Gbit/sec throughput-double the prior generation and supports six times more compute than BlueField 3. It fuses Arm-based CPUs with the ConnectX-9 SuperNIC to accelerate storage, networking, and security across AI infrastructure. In a briefing, Dion Harris called BlueField 4 the OS for AI factories, noting its six-times compute advantage over BlueField 3. A key upgrade is the replacement CPU: Nvidia's own Grace CPU, a 64-core design based on the Neoverse architecture, replacing BlueField 3's 16-core smartphone-style core. This pairing aims to streamline orchestration and performance for AI workloads at scale.

SpaceX Resolves Texas Land Dispute with Cards Against Humanity in $15M Settlement

October 28, 2025, 5:34 PM EDT. Tech and space company SpaceX has reportedly reached a settlement with the political-card game maker Cards Against Humanity in a $15 million trespass lawsuit over a 20-acre plot in Cameron County, Texas near the U.S.-Mexico border. CAH purchased the land in 2017 with crowdfunding to protest the border wall and alleged encroachment and environmental harm as SpaceX expanded its nearby Starbase facility. The settlement, finalized last month in Cameron County District Court, ends a long legal fight and avoids a scheduled jury trial. CAH says SpaceX removed construction equipment and the land is being restored, while supporters were promised proceeds but will reportedly receive another pack of cards instead.

Save Up to $250 on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic at Best Buy with Trade-In

October 28, 2025, 5:32 PM EDT. Best Buy is offering up to $250 off the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic when you trade in a qualifying device like the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro or Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. Plus, you'll get a free band. Trade-in requires a device in good condition and involves selecting the Galaxy Watch 8, checking your trade-in value, and adding to cart with a free band. You'll need to factory reset and disable Find My before sending it in. The upgrade brings Gemini AI, a 3000-nit display, and an 11% thinner profile, plus features like Running Coach and Bedtime Guidance. Offer can total up to 50% off.

Stellantis partners with Nvidia, Uber and Foxconn to pursue robotaxis

October 28, 2025, 5:26 PM EDT. Stellantis has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Nvidia, Uber and Foxconn to explore jointly developing autonomous robotaxis. Stellantis would supply vehicle design and manufacturing expertise, Nvidia would provide autonomous software, and Foxconn would handle hardware, with Uber operating the robotaxi services. The deal follows a tie-up with Pony.ai for Europe testing and targets Level 4 autonomy, where no driver is required. Nvidia has other collaborations with Lucid and Mercedes and fleets pursuing robotaxis. Uber aims to build a large, Nvidia-powered fleet, while Stellantis plans to deliver about 5,000 robotaxis to be operated by Uber worldwide, starting production around 2028 in the US. Stellantis has previously partnered with Waymo and continues advancing autonomous features.

CAD renders hint Google Pixel 10a stays budget-friendly with Tensor G4 and $499 price

October 28, 2025, 5:24 PM EDT. New CAD-based renders of the Google Pixel 10a surface, hinting at an early 2026 unveiling. The budget Pixel 10a appears nearly identical to the Pixel 9a, with a flush camera island on the plastic back and a two-camera setup. Bezel size remains thick, and Google keeps the volume rocker below the power button, a usability quirk. The device is said to keep the same footprint as the 9a at 153.9 x 72.9 x 9 mm, but could ditch the Tensor G5 for a Tensor G4 with a higher-clocked CPU to save costs. Pricing is expected to start at $499 for 128GB of storage, and, as a new Pixel, it should receive around seven years of software support.

iOS 26.1 RC adds Liquid Glass toggle, Lock Screen Swipe, and more changes

October 28, 2025, 5:22 PM EDT. Apple's iOS 26.1 Release Candidate introduces notable UI and feature tweaks ahead of the official launch. The standout addition is the Liquid Glass toggle, letting you switch between clear and tinted translucency for notifications and UI elements. A new Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera toggle appears under Settings > Camera, offering an option to disable the gesture and prevent accidental launches on iPhone and iPad. Other tweaks include ongoing Apple Intelligence improvements with broader language support, AirPods Live Translation expansion, and a visual refresh as Apple rebrands Apple TV+ to Apple TV with a new icon. The Settings app gains a Local Capture section for file storage, and there are usability refinements such as easier alarm dismissal and a swipe gesture for changing tracks in Music.

Pixel Watch official bands on sale: deals from $16 at Best Buy and Amazon

October 28, 2025, 5:20 PM EDT. Pixel Watch owners can score official bands at steep discounts, with prices dipping to $15.99 at Best Buy and as low as $10 on Amazon. Official bands typically run $50+, but these sales offer a safer alternative to cheaper third-party straps. Best Buy lists five bands at $15.99 each from a trusted seller, while Amazon highlights 45mm and 41mm options in the $20-$35 range, including the Hazel Woven Band and Lemongrass among others. There's also a selection of 41mm Active Bands starting around $20 in colors like Chalk, Charcoal, Obsidian, and more. For fans of premium materials, Nomad released a new Horween leather band today. If you're shopping for a replacement, these official options are worth a look before you pay full price.

Tesla Chair Defends Elon Musk's $1 Trillion Pay Package Amid AI Pivot

October 28, 2025, 5:18 PM EDT. Tesla Chair Robyn Denholm defends the board's decision to back an ambitious, up-to-$1 trillion compensation package for Elon Musk, arguing he is the right leader to steer the company through its AI, robotics, and autonomous-vehicle pivot. The plan, disclosed in an SEC filing, would reward Musk only if he hits targets that could lift Tesla's valuation from $1 trillion to $8.5 trillion over the next decade. Critics note slowing EV sales and stiff competition as potential headwinds, while Denholm emphasizes the pay is entirely performance-based and intended to motivate delivery on long-term goals. The board reportedly held more than 10 meetings to assess Musk's motivation and vision.

Nvidia and Nokia Ink $1 Billion Partnership to Power AI-Native RAN

October 28, 2025, 5:14 PM EDT. Nvidia and Nokia announced a $1 billion partnership to add Nvidia-powered, commercial-grade AI-RAN to Nokia's RAN portfolio, enabling AI-native 5G-Advanced and 6G networks on Nvidia platforms. The collaboration targets the AI-RAN market, projected to exceed $200B by 2030, and will enable distributed edge AI inferencing at scale. The deal includes joint testing with T-Mobile U.S. as part of the 6G innovation process. Nvidia emphasizes this as the start of an AI-native wireless era and a platform shift to maintain U.S. leadership in critical communications infrastructure.

Nvidia stock climbs above $200 as CEO keynote reveals AI bets and major partnerships

October 28, 2025, 5:12 PM EDT. During Nvidia's keynote, CEO Jensen Huang outlined an ambitious AI playbook-from the Drive Hyperion robo-taxis to a global vehicle network-and a wave of partnerships. The announcements include Lilly pursuing 1,000 GPUs for drug discovery, and a Department of Energy project to deploy seven supercomputers, one with 10,000 GPUs. Additional deals with CrowdStrike and other partners reinforce Nvidia's software and security ecosystem. Huang warned the US remains ahead in AI and chips but risks falling behind without continued investment and skilled immigration. The cadence of announcements typically boosts Nvidia's stock, which is nearing a $5 trillion market cap after hitting $4 trillion in July. The move past $200 underscores investor optimism around Nvidia's AI infrastructure moat and mega-deals.

Tesla Signals Cybercab May Add Steering Wheel and Pedals

October 28, 2025, 5:10 PM EDT. Tesla's chairwoman Robin Denholm said the company could equip the Cybercab with a steering wheel and pedals if required, signaling a potential pivot from the original no-steering-wheel design. The two-seat EV was introduced as a clean robotaxi intended for fully autonomous operation, with Elon Musk emphasizing a path toward autonomy and a 2026 production target. Regulators have relaxed rules for self-driving vehicles, but current exemptions cover limited cases, and Tesla hasn't solved unsupervised self-driving, leaving the Robotaxi plan in question. Tesla is setting up Cybercab production at Gigafactory Texas near Austin, viewing it as a cheaper alternative to the Model Y for its autonomous fleet. Analysts and observers note that a steering wheel might be necessary for actual volume delivery.

Amazon to Cut About 14,000 Jobs as It Bets on Leaner Structure and AI

October 28, 2025, 5:00 PM EDT. Amazon announced it will cut about 14,000 white-collar roles, part of a push to be leaner-fewer layers and more ownership-to move faster for customers and growth bets. Company executives stressed the cuts aren't due to weak performance, arguing the business is performing well even as leadership doubles down on AI investments. Affected workers will receive 90 days to apply for other roles, and Reuters has flagged potential future cuts of up to about 30,000 in subsequent phases. The move mirrors a wider tech trend as major firms like Oracle, Microsoft, and Alphabet trim costs to fund AI-centric priorities while attempting to preserve profits.

Apple debuts RCs for watchOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, iOS 26.1, and more

October 28, 2025, 4:58 PM EDT. Apple has released release candidates (RCs) for its next wave of updates, including watchOS 26.1, tvOS 26.1, iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, macOS Tahoe 26.1, visionOS 26.1, and HomePod 26.1 for beta testers. Public launches are expected within about a week. The big platforms bring new Liquid Glass design toggles, a broad Apple Intelligence language expansion, and the return of Slide Over on iPad. For tvOS, watchOS, visionOS, and HomePod, changes are comparatively minor. A new Apple TV app icon appears, while the TV app remains largely unchanged. Expect bug fixes, security updates, and performance improvements across the lineup as more details emerge.

Nvidia expands AI play with Palantir, Uber, DOE partnerships

October 28, 2025, 4:56 PM EDT. At Nvidia's GTC, Nvidia unveiled a wave of partnerships with Palantir, Uber, CrowdStrike, and the Department of Energy to build seven new AI supercomputers and accelerate AI workloads. CEO Jensen Huang framed the move as a clear signal of growing AI demand, highlighting commitments to consume massive amounts of GPUs. Analyst Daniel Newman said the AI cycle is transitioning from hype to real adoption, pointing to a potential path toward up to half a trillion dollars in revenue through 2026. The announcements, alongside a stock rally, suggest expanding enterprise use of AI infrastructure and a shift away from bubble fears toward tangible value.

Sought after 2-in-1 tablet/laptop with OLED display is over $500 cheaper on Amazon

October 28, 2025, 4:54 PM EDT. PC Guide highlights the 2024 Microsoft Surface Pro 2-in-1 lineup, featuring an OLED 13-inch display, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, and a 12-core Snapdragon X Elite for top-tier speed. The premium magnesium chassis, long battery life, and a 120Hz display option boost productivity across laptop, tablet, and creative modes-the detachable Surface Pro Flex Keyboard (sold separately) completes the setup. An LCD variant with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage using a 10-core X Plus remains as a budget option. The OLED model delivers deeper blacks and richer colors, while the chip handles multitasking and media tasks smoothly. Deals season brings savings like Save 26% on select configurations, subject to change.

Apple Seeds Release Candidates for iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, macOS Tahoe 26.1

October 28, 2025, 4:48 PM EDT. Apple has released release candidate builds of iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, macOS Tahoe 26.1, tvOS 26.1, watchOS 26.1, and visionOS 26.1 to developers and public beta testers. RCs arrive a week after the fourth betas and can be installed from Settings > General > Software Update. The updates expand Apple Intelligence language support to Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (Traditional), and Vietnamese, and extend AirPods Live Translation to Japanese, Korean, Italian, and Chinese. New options include an opacity toggle for Liquid Glass, the ability to disable the Lock Screen Camera swipe, and visual tweaks to Calendar, Safari, Apple Music, and Photos. Apple says the software will ship in early November; detailed changes are listed in the iOS 26.1 feature list.

Space Startup Renaissance: Lower Launch Costs and New Tech Spark a Starship Era

October 28, 2025, 4:46 PM EDT. Space startups are riding a renaissance spurred by cheaper launches and new technologies. The cost drop, powered by SpaceX's reusable rockets, has pushed payload pricing from $54,000 to about $1,400 per kilogram, fueling a wave of ventures to expand low-Earth orbit, build space-based networks, and develop in-orbit manufacturing. Morgan Beller of NFX calls it the 'tall-ships era' of space as transport enables broader markets. Notable players include Aetherflux (solar energy in orbit sending power to Earth) and Varda Space Industries, which uses microgravity to create novel drug formulations and benefits from SpaceX launches. Aetherflux's $50M Series A, with participation from Bill Gates' venture arm and Andreessen Horowitz, signals strong investor momentum. The orbit-enabled manufacturing and pharma breakthroughs illustrate a starship future taking flight.

Apple, Microsoft reach $4T market-cap milestone

October 28, 2025, 4:44 PM EDT. Apple and Microsoft joined NVIDIA in the $4 trillion market-cap club after fresh rallies that pushed Apple to intraday highs near $269 and closed around that level, and sent Microsoft to roughly $542 a share. The momentum is fueled by the iPhone 17 cycle, with analysts like Dan Ives of Wedbush arguing the Street underestimates Apple's upside. Microsoft's surge comes as it closes a deal with OpenAI that positions the company as a public-benefit corporation valued around $500 billion. Both tech giants are set to report quarterly results soon. At $4 trillion, Apple and Microsoft sit above nearly all peers in market cap, a feat NVIDIA has already achieved with about $4.8 trillion.

FCC Kicks Off Satellite Licensing Overhaul and Spectrum Rulemaking

October 28, 2025, 4:38 PM EDT. The FCC kicked off two rulemakings aimed at overhauling satellite licensing and streamlining spectrum use. The first proposes a licensing assembly line to speed approvals for satellite systems, rethinking processing rounds and which modifications require new consent. The second seeks to boost efficient use of the upper microwave spectrum bands and trim licensing friction. Chairman Brendan Carr dubbed October Space Month and touted a shift from a legacy default to no to a default to yes framework-favoring permissionless innovation and clearer timelines. All three FCC commissioners supported the notices of proposed rulemakings, while vacancies remain. Industry group SIA welcomed the moves as accelerating licensing and global leadership. Related efforts include spectrum sharing reviews, satellite power limits, and a plan to open 20,000 MHz of spectrum for satellite broadband.

FCC proposes licensing assembly line to accelerate satellite approvals

October 28, 2025, 4:36 PM EDT. The FCC advanced a modular 'licensing assembly line' to overhaul satellite applications, via the Space Modernization for the 21st Century NPRM, which will replace Part 25 with a ground-up framework (Part 100) for today's commercial space. The goal is to speed reviews, cut red tape, and improve predictability for operators. Highlights include clear fast-track standards, simplified NGSO procedures, reduced or removed financial bonds for low-risk operators, and license terms extended to 20 years. The proposal also shifts toward a nationwide Earth-station licensing approach, requires operators to share space situational awareness data, and advances the FCC's Delete, Delete, Delete initiative. In a separate vote, the agency updated UMFUS siting rules to boost satellite ground infrastructure and 5G integration; the Space Industry Association praised the move.

AI Labeling Laws Expand: Utah, California Lead Transparency and Opt-Outs

October 28, 2025, 4:30 PM EDT. Utah and California have passed laws requiring entities to disclose when they use AI with customers, and more states are considering similar rules. Proponents say labeling gives people who don't want AI a straightforward way to opt out, while critics warn it could slow innovation. Utah's Department of Commerce is enforcing AI disclosures for state-regulated businesses; California extended its 2019 law to require police departments to reveal when AI helps write incident reports and now requires city agencies (like San Francisco) to publicly report AI use. Supporters argue transparency benefits markets and democracy, but opponents worry about the chilling effect on adoption. Some users, like a Bremerton teacher, are reacting by changing providers or limiting AI-assisted services.

Take-Two CEO: AI can't replicate Grand Theft Auto; human creativity remains essential

October 28, 2025, 4:28 PM EDT. Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick says AI won't match human game developers or recreate Grand Theft Auto. Speaking at CNBC's Technology Executive Council Summit, he argued that AI is data-driven and inherently backward-looking, producing derivative results rather than original creativity. While he's not dismissive of AI's promise, he notes key limitations-especially around intellectual property and copyright-and the need to respect creators' rights. The discussion comes amid licensing deals and lawsuits over data use, and tools like OpenAI's Sora raise concerns about deepfakes and voice/likeness use. Even with AI's growing role, Zelnick believes a GTA-like marketing plan or game can't be created by a button, given current constraints and human artistry.

Satellites Expose Encryption Gaps: UCSD Researchers Find Unencrypted Traffic in GEO Signals

October 28, 2025, 4:20 PM EDT. Researchers from UC San Diego and the University of Maryland intercepted signals from dozens of geostationary satellites about 30,000 miles up, and found that much of the traffic was not encrypted. What started as a study of encryption quality turned into a disclosure of widespread unencrypted messages, including calls and corporate data, and even signals linked to a Mexican military surveillance system. Some Navy communications were encrypted, but others weren't, especially when a call had to hop from a remote area to a satellite. The team says encryption is feasible for satellite links, and in many cases organizations fixed the issue within days. The work, published in the ACM Conference on Computer and Communications Security in Taiwan, highlights a space-to-ground privacy challenge and the urgency of universal satellite encryption.

Nvidia expands 6G AI partnerships with Nokia, T-Mobile, Oracle; Eli Lilly builds stockpile of orforglipron ahead of FDA filing

October 28, 2025, 4:18 PM EDT. At the GTC conference, Nvidia unveils new collaborations to advance next-gen networks and AI: a $1 billion investment in Finnish telecom company Nokia to form a strategic 6G partnership, and a tie-up with T-Mobile to fold AI-RAN into 6G. The company also teams with Oracle to back the DOE's largest AI supercomputer and with CrowdStrike to power cybersecurity AI agents. CEO Jensen Huang hints at continued growth for the Grace Blackwell AI chip over the next five quarters. Separately, Eli Lilly is stockpiling its oral weight-loss pill orforglipron ahead of FDA submission, signaling confidence in a launch next year and potential supply advantages over injectable GLP-1 therapies. Markets kept rallying in response to tech and policy headlines.

Bloomberg Tech: OpenAI's For-Profit Path Cleared – Microsoft Stake, Tesla, and Nvidia Moves

October 28, 2025, 4:14 PM EDT. On Bloomberg Tech, the hosts review OpenAI's restructuring that clears the path for a for-profit model, including Microsoft securing roughly a 27% stake in OpenAI as part of the deal. The segment also covers OpenAI's ChatGPT ambitions in this new structure. Separately, the chair of Tesla's board discusses investors' approval for Elon Musk's proposed $1 trillion compensation package. In tech moves, Nvidia plans a $1 billion equity investment in Nokia as Nvidia's GTC conference kicks off in Washington, DC. The discussion ties AI commercialization to big bets across software, hardware, and incentives.

Open Cosmos partners with Panasonic on Quiver project to advance optical inter-satellite communications

October 28, 2025, 4:12 PM EDT. Open Cosmos teams with Panasonic Operational Excellence Co. to advance optical inter-satellite communications for faster, more autonomous satellite constellations. Over six months, Panasonic will lead antenna design and analysis while Open Cosmos tests integration for future missions. The collaboration could span a future production line in Japan, with Open Cosmos handling satellite design and mission integration from the UK. The project follows UK Space Agency funding through the International Bilateral Fund (IBF), with £147,000 awarded to Quiver. Founder and CEO Rafel Jorda Siquier says the effort marks a new era of international space collaboration to make satellites faster, smarter, and more autonomous.

Nvidia launches massive AI push with cross-industry partnerships and 6G readiness

October 28, 2025, 4:10 PM EDT. AI giant Nvidia unveiled a multi-partner push to operationalize AI across industries. In a keynote, the company outlined a collaboration with Palantir to embed Nvidia models into Palantir's Ontology framework, creating a first-of-its-kind integrated stack for operational AI powered by CUDA-X and open AI models. Lowe's will build a digital replica of its global supply chain to optimize AI-driven efficiency and customer experience. Nvidia also teamed with Booz Allen, Cisco, MITRE, ODC, and T-Mobile to create America's first AI-native wireless stack for 6G on the Nvidia AI Aerial platform, enabling AI across hardware and software. A collaboration with Nokia will develop a 6G-ready computing platform for AI-native 5G/6G networks and trial of AI-RAN with T-Mobile in 2026. The drive includes a potential large investment in OpenAI.

FCC Tightens Crackdown on Huawei, ZTE, and China Telecom Over National Security

October 28, 2025, 3:50 PM EDT. The FCC voted 3-0 to tighten restrictions on telecom equipment from firms on the Covered List, aiming to close loopholes that could threaten U.S. networks. The move targets import and sale of devices containing parts from Huawei, ZTE, and China Telecom, amid ongoing national-security concerns. Chairman Brendan Carr highlighted gaps that bad actors could exploit, and vowed to block new device approvals containing components from those companies. The crackdown follows retailers pulling numerous Chinese-made electronics from shelves, and comes as Huawei leads the global smartwatch market with models like the Watch D2. The policy signals a broader push to curb perceived risks from Chinese tech in consumer devices, including wearables and surveillance gear.

Why CleanSpark beat Microsoft for Wyoming AI data center deal-and what it means for crypto mining's future

October 28, 2025, 3:48 PM EDT. CleanSpark CEO Matt Schultz outlined a strategy to develop AI data centers alongside its crypto mining operations, arguing miners can fund and deploy AI infrastructure faster than traditional developers. A key win: a 100MW Cheyenne, Wyoming contract beat out Microsoft, underscoring that speed to market matters more than balance sheets. CleanSpark says it currently energized about 1.03 GW with 1.7 GW in development and plans to monetize megawatts by rapidly scaling, then repurposing sites for high-performance compute. A new partnership with Submer aims to build AI-focused campuses across North America, signaling a broader shift in the crypto mining landscape.

Eli Lilly and Nvidia Team Up to Build AI-Powered Supercomputer and AI Factory for Drug Discovery

October 28, 2025, 3:44 PM EDT. Eli Lilly and Nvidia announced a joint plan to build what they call the pharmaceutical industry's most powerful supercomputer and an AI factory to accelerate drug discovery and development. The system will house more than 1,000 Nvidia Blackwell Ultra GPUs in a unified network, and Lilly will own and operate it. The effort aims to train and deploy AI models at scale, enabling scientists to test millions of experiments and potentially shorten a drug's path from preclinical work to market. Completion is slated for December with online rollout in January. While AI-assisted drug discovery is still early, the collaboration reflects growing investments in AI to reduce costs and time-to-market.

OpenAI targets a 'legitimate AI researcher' by 2028 as it shifts to public-benefit structure

October 28, 2025, 3:40 PM EDT. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said the company is racing toward an intern-level research assistant by September 2026 and a fully automated "legitimate AI researcher" by 2028. The push comes as OpenAI transitions to a public-benefit corporation, freeing more capital-raising opportunities while preserving safety commitments. Chief Scientist Jakub Pachocki framed the envisioned researcher as a system that autonomously delivers on large research projects, not a human. The plan hinges on two bets: sustained algorithmic innovation and dramatically increased test-time compute. By expanding thinking time-potentially to whole data-center scale-OpenAI argues it can accelerate discoveries in fields from medicine to physics. Under the new structure, the OpenAI Foundation will own 26% of the for-profit and oversee research directions, with a $25 billion commitment to disease cures while guiding safety efforts.

OpenAI Restructures as Public Benefit; Microsoft Secures 27% Stake, 2032 IP Rights

October 28, 2025, 3:26 PM EDT. OpenAI has restructured into a public benefit corporation, turning its for-profit arm into a structure that grants Microsoft a 27% stake valued at about $135 billion and exclusive IP rights to OpenAI technology through 2032. OpenAI says it will buy roughly $250 billion of Microsoft's Azure cloud services, while Microsoft can pursue AGI independently. The deal deepens a partnership that began in 2019, after Microsoft invested about $14 billion. Critics, including xAI founder Elon Musk, questioned OpenAI's nonprofit roots amid the switch. If OpenAI declares AGI, an independent panel would verify it. The arrangement could clear a path to a future public listing, as OpenAI balances its mission with commercial growth.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic deal: lowest price yet at $319 on Woot

October 28, 2025, 3:24 PM EDT. Android Authority reports a rare deal on Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic. The smartwatch normally retails for $499.99, but Woot is offering the White version for just $319, the lowest price yet. The deal includes a full one-year manufacturer's warranty and is limited to two units per customer. The Watch 8 Classic blends design and Wear OS, with a 1.37-inch Super AMOLED display, 438 x 438 resolution, and sapphire crystal. It uses stainless steel body and a rotating bezel for navigation, plus IP68, 5ATM, and MIL-STD-810H durability. Battery life hits ~30 hours with Always On Display on, or ~40 hours with it off. A strong option for Android users who value style and performance at a steep discount. Deal runs about eight days or while stocks last.

Apple TV 4K (3rd gen) hits record-low $119 at Costco through Oct 31

October 28, 2025, 3:20 PM EDT. Costco is offering the Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) with 128GB for just $119.99 through October 31, its lowest price to date. Membership is required, but non-members can grab the deal by signing up for an annual Costco membership. The 2022-era box remains a strong pick for Apple ecosystem fans: use an iPhone as a remote, pair two AirPods for private listening, and view Fitness+ metrics on the TV. New tvOS 26 adds karaoke mode in Apple Music. Continuity Camera lets you take FaceTime calls on the big screen, and the device supports HDR10 Plus, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and Wi-Fi 6. The 128GB model includes Ethernet and Thread for smart-home setups.

AI Demand Could Push Smartphone Prices Higher as Memory Chip Shortage Deepens

October 28, 2025, 3:16 PM EDT. AI demand is fueling a memory chip shortage that could lift smartphone prices. While on-device AI features exist, the cloud-heavy workloads powering most services push demand for high- bandwidth memory in server farms. That shift makes memory chips pricier and less available for consumer devices, and manufacturers like Samsung and Xiaomi are reportedly weighing price bumps for mid- and low-tier phones. Analysts say the shortage could last more than two years, with memory suppliers prioritizing high-margin parts such as HBM over standard DRAM. Some firms, including Apple, are already stockpiling chips. If the trend continues, your next smartphone could cost more even if the device isn't materially different-driven by AI, memory chips, and server farms.

Lucid targets industry-first mind-off driving with Nvidia Drive AV

October 28, 2025, 3:06 PM EDT. Lucid Group is pursuing an industry-first leap in autonomous driving, aiming to offer mind-off driving that can operate with no human monitoring under normal conditions. The company plans to leverage Nvidia Drive AV and a multisensor suite (cameras, radar, lidar) to enable a Level 4 autonomous system starting with its upcoming midsize vehicle and later expanding to others. Interim CEO Marc Winterhoff said the debut will happen in the coming years, but not in 2026, and stressed time-to-market and cost considerations. In the meantime, Lucid will continue to enhance automated features on its current Air sedan and Gravity SUV in partnership with Nvidia. The move would position Lucid ahead of rivals who have yet to deliver on personal self-driving promises.

GAIME Kampala: AI's Next Chapter Begins with Cross-Disciplinary Connections

October 28, 2025, 3:02 PM EDT. GAIME Conference marks a pivotal turn in global AI discourse by situating innovation in Kampala, not just Silicon Valley. CERFODES, a Pan-African digital transformation firm, positions Kampala as a strategic epicenter where unity fuels creativity. The conference eschews traditional panels for an Intelligence Profile-driven model that analyzes participants' expertise to foster cross-disciplinary collaborations. An Invisible Conference layer surfaces spontaneous meet-ups, pairing a Nairobi coder with a Fortune 500 CEO or a traditional healer with an Oxford neuroscientist. With attendees from 100+ countries at Speke Resort Munyonyo, GAIME emphasizes real-world needs in Uganda's thriving ecosystem (Hive CoLab, fintechs) as a catalyst for innovations born from diverse conversations. October 30th is framed as a challenge to the status quo, igniting a new era in AI collaboration.

Former CNN Anchor Campbell Brown Launches Forum AI to Tackle AI Bias

October 28, 2025, 2:58 PM EDT. Former CNN anchor and ex-Meta executive Campbell Brown has raised $3 million in seed funding for Forum AI, a startup aimed at measuring how AI models perform on sensitive topics. Brown and co-founder Robbie Goldfarb, both veterans of Meta, assembled a diverse roster of experts including Fareed Zakaria and political commentators to provide human context where traditional labeling falls short. The company will evaluate AI outputs on politics, foreign affairs, and mental health to deliver clear, independent feedback that helps companies improve reliability and trust. Lead investors include Lerer Hippeau and Perplexity AI's venture fund. Brown says the mission is transparency and to show users the sources behind AI answers, addressing higher-stakes questions with human judgment.

OpenAI Restructures Into Nonprofit Foundation and For-Profit Group with $135B Microsoft Stake

October 28, 2025, 2:54 PM EDT. OpenAI has reorganized into a nonprofit called the OpenAI Foundation and a for-profit entity called the OpenAI Group PBC. The nonprofit will hold a $130 billion stake in the for-profit arm as part of a shift to a public-benefit corporate structure. Microsoft, a long-time partner, now holds a reported $135 billion investment and a 32.5% stake on an as-converted basis in OpenAI Group PBC. The move aims to advance safe, beneficial AI and broad access, following regulatory discussions with state attorneys general and a transition from a capped-profit model. The Foundation also plans to invest about $25 billion across health breakthroughs, cures, and AI resilience, while the Group pursues scientific discovery with Microsoft.

PayPal Brings Direct Checkout to ChatGPT Through OpenAI's ACP

October 28, 2025, 2:52 PM EDT. PayPal is partnering with OpenAI to bring its digital wallet to ChatGPT via the Agentic Commerce Protocol (ACP), enabling Instant Checkout and in-chat payments. Users can pay with PayPal balances, bank accounts or cards, and merchants can process transactions directly within the chat. A launch date hasn't been announced, but a rollout is expected soon. The move accelerates AI-driven shopping on ChatGPT and follows recent retailer deals that have energized markets. In 2026, PayPal plans to use ACP to surface product catalogs from brands in ChatGPT commerce, and it is expanding ChatGPT Enterprise access for its 24,000+ employees.

Cisco and NVIDIA Expand AI Networking with Silicon One and Spectrum-X

October 28, 2025, 2:50 PM EDT. Cisco and NVIDIA unveil three milestones reinforcing their AI data center partnership: a Cisco Cloud Reference Architecture built on Cisco Silicon One with an NVIDIA Spectrum-X add-on license, enabling adaptive routing and end-to-end congestion management on Cisco Nexus 9300 switches and NVIDIA SuperNICs; a Cisco NVIDIA Cloud Partner (NCP)-compliant Reference Architecture using NVIDIA Spectrum-X silicon in the Cisco N9100 Series with early orderability in November 2025 and 51.2 Tbps bandwidth; and the November 2025 orderability of Cisco Nexus Hyperfabric AI. The collaboration broadens silicon choices, supports scalable AI workloads, and simplifies management via the Cisco Nexus Dashboard, with options for NX-OS or SONiC.

Nvidia teams up with Goldman-backed startup to tackle a major pain point in AI adoption

October 28, 2025, 2:48 PM EDT. Nvidia has joined forces with a Goldman-backed startup to address a key obstacle slowing AI uptake. The partnership signals a broader industry push to simplify deployment, reduce costs, improve scalability, and strengthen governance around AI systems. By combining Nvidia's hardware and software ecosystem with the startup's innovative approach, the deal aims to accelerate adoption while mitigating friction from data integration, security, and operational complexity.

FCC gains power to retroactively ban gadgets from security-risk companies, targeting DJI drones

October 28, 2025, 2:46 PM EDT. The FCC voted 3-0 to empower itself to retroactively ban gadgets and radio components from companies on its Covered List under the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act. The change closes loopholes to shield US networks from backdoors in telecom gear, and could allow the administration to block Chinese consumer electronics, starting with DJI drones. Beginning December 23, new DJI products could be banned from import unless a national security agency certifies they pose no risk. Import bans apply case-by-case, product-by-product, while the FCC says existing devices won't be pulled. The decision currently lacks an active government audit into DJI, drawing attention to regulatory timing, national security concerns, and the potential for broader tech bans on the open airwaves.

Nvidia brings Blackwell GPUs to full production in Arizona amid US manufacturing push

October 28, 2025, 2:14 PM EDT. At its GTC conference, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang announced that the company's fastest AI chips-the Blackwell GPUs are now in full production in Arizona, marking a shift from Taiwan to the United States. Huang cited a request from President Trump nine months earlier to bring manufacturing home for national security and jobs. First Blackwell wafers have been produced at a Phoenix facility, and assembly will follow in the U.S. Nvidia stressed the conference's policy audience, arguing export controls could harm U.S. interests. Demand remains strong, with millions of Blackwell GPUs shipped in the last year, and Nvidia projects massive GPU sales between Blackwell and Rubin generations. The company also announced a partnership with Nokia to build telecom gear, including a $1 billion stake, and says it is building 5G/6G chips to support American-made wireless networks.

NVIDIA and Nokia Team Up to Build AI Platform for 6G and Telecom Leadership

October 28, 2025, 2:08 PM EDT. NVIDIA and Nokia will jointly advance an AI-powered platform for next-generation networks, pairing Nokia's SR Linux software with the NVIDIA Spectrum-X Ethernet platform to deliver enhanced AI networking in data centers. The collaboration will apply Nokia's telemetry and fabric management capabilities to NVIDIA's AI infrastructure and explore Nokia's optical technologies for future architectures. The partnership aims to accelerate 6G readiness, boost performance and efficiency, and shape enterprise telco deployments through integrated software, hardware, and services. While the agreement highlights strategic benefits, it also notes typical risks and market dynamics that could influence timing and outcomes. Together, the companies seek to strengthen leadership in telecom AI, edge computing, and scalable, secure networking solutions.

Bill Gates wrote the playbook for today's AI titans

October 28, 2025, 2:02 PM EDT. Bill Gates' career spans philanthropy and a ruthless, market-dominating playbook that is now fueling OpenAI's AI era. The piece traces how Gates built Microsoft by prioritizing market capture, then used that power to shape the software ecosystem-an approach now echoed in OpenAI's data strategy, product launches, and aggressive expansion. From the Windows monopoly to the drag-on-developments with browsers, the article argues Gates' philosophy-capture first, reconcile later-has become the blueprint for today's AI titans. OpenAI's recent moves, including Atlas and the missteps around trained data, echo Gates-era plays: push a product, lock in users, and negotiate damage control after the fact. The result is a tech landscape where AI giants pursue dominance with the same monopolistic instincts Gates once used to cement Microsoft's position.

Elon Musk's Grokipedia Accused of Copying Wikipedia, Sparking Debate

October 28, 2025, 2:00 PM EDT. Grokipedia, Elon Musk's xAI project, is accused of copying large swaths of Wikipedia, with pages admitting content is adapted from the CC-BY-SA-4.0 licensed encyclopedia. The Verge notes many entries-like Monday, Apple, and PlayStation 5-read almost word-for-word. Differences often skew ideological, from climate coverage to political figures such as Donald Trump, and even a controversial note on slavery and HIV/AIDS. Wikimedia Foundation spokespersons argue Grokipedia relies on Wikipedia's human-driven knowledge rather than AI-only curation, and that Grokipedia needs Wikipedia to exist. The episode raises broader questions about AI-driven knowledge bases, licensing, editorial standards, and who should control online information, highlighting tensions between AI initiatives and open knowledge policies.

Tesla Europe Sales Fall 10.5% as BYD Expands Market Share

October 28, 2025, 1:58 PM EDT. Tesla's European sales fell 10.5% in September, registering 39,837 new vehicles across the EU, EFTA and UK, down from a year earlier. The company's regional market share slipped to 3.2% from 4.0%, even as August's rebound capped the month. BYD posted a sharp rise, up 398% year over year to 24,963 vehicles, expanding its European market share to 2% from 0.4% amid broader rollout. Overall September registrations rose 10.7% to 1.24 million in Europe, with 34.7% hybrid, 27.7% petrol and 16.1% battery-electric. Analysts note Tesla faces fiercer competition from cheaper EVs, alongside deteriorating brand opinion in Europe and pricing pressure. Despite the headline, Tesla reported record quarterly deliveries, though margins narrowed as it invests in AI and robotics.

Toyota brings Apple Maps EV routing to its BEVs via CarPlay

October 28, 2025, 1:54 PM EDT. Toyota says its battery-electric vehicles can now use Apple Maps via CarPlay to plan charging stops, using real-time battery data to estimate arrival ranges and charging times. The update applies to 2023 and newer BEVs, with the US example of the bZ4X. The feature requires automakers to share battery information with Apple, and rollout remains limited; before today only the Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, and Porsche Taycan supported it. Toyota also announced the 2026 bZ will gain access to the Tesla Supercharger network, expanding charging options to over 25,000 locations. The bZ lineup uses the NACS charging standard, originally created by Tesla and now open-source.

New MacBook Air (M4) Drops to $799 – 20% Off, Lowest Price Ever

October 28, 2025, 1:52 PM EDT. NBC Select reports that Apple's 2025 MacBook Air with the M4 chip is back at its lowest price yet, now about $799 after a 20% discount. Both the 13-inch and 15-inch models offer up to 18 hours of battery life and feature a new webcam that keeps you centered during video calls. Internally, the M4 brings noticeable performance gains over the previous generation. The deal makes the compact, lightweight MacBook Air a strong choice for students, travelers, and creators alike, with the 15-inch option providing extra screen real estate for spreadsheets, presentations, and media work. The article also notes that MacBook Pro deals may appear less frequently, making this Air sale particularly compelling ahead of the holidays.

Elon Musk launches Grokipedia, an AI-powered Wikipedia-like platform

October 28, 2025, 1:50 PM EDT. Elon Musk launched Grokipedia, a Wikipedia-like platform powered by Grok AI, aiming to create an alternative information ecosystem focused on the truth. The site mimics Wikipedia's minimalist style but is far smaller-about 800,000 articles vs. Wikipedia's millions. While editing by the public is possible, human involvement remains unclear. Musk envisions preserving content in orbit and emphasizes continuously updating Grokipedia with critical thinking and cogency. Critics argue it could reflect Musk's biases, contrasting Grokipedia's Musk-focused entries with Wikipedia's more skeptical framing. The move heightens debates about media bias, content moderation, and the competitive dynamics of information platforms in tech and policy circles.

PayPal Partners With OpenAI to Bring Payments Directly Into ChatGPT

October 28, 2025, 1:48 PM EDT. PayPal is partnering with OpenAI to let ChatGPT users complete purchases directly via PayPal's network. The deal connects PayPal's global merchant network to ChatGPT, enabling discovery and buying of millions of products inside the chat and keeping users in the interface. PayPal shares rose on the news as the collaboration positions AI tools as a transactional platform, while merchants gain access to ChatGPT's audience-over 800 million weekly active users. CEO Alex Chriss described expanding payments "wherever consumers want to shop." Analysts view this as progress toward agentic commerce, where AI agents act on behalf of users to find and buy products, potentially reshaping e-commerce dynamics.

Apple Maps iOS 26: Turn Off Visited Places and Stop Location Tracking

October 28, 2025, 1:44 PM EDT. Apple's iOS 26 introduces Visited Places and Preferred Routes in Maps, designed to remember where you've been and learn your favorite routes. The feature requires location history, but Apple says Visited Places is optional and end-to-end encrypted, not readable by Apple, and data stays on your device. If you're concerned about tracking, you can disable Visited Places: Settings > Apple Maps > Location > toggle off Visited Places. You can also review or delete saved places in the Maps app (Places > Visited Places > … > Remove), or clear the history. Availability varies by market. WWDC emphasized privacy protections, but users still control data through deletions and device-level removals.

SpaceX warns: Update Inactive Starlink Dishes Now or They'll Be Bricked

October 28, 2025, 1:36 PM EDT. SpaceX warns that Starlink customers who have canceled or paused service must update their dishes within the next few weeks, or their Starlink service may stop functioning. In a timing-sensitive notice, SpaceX says inactive dishes could be bricked if they aren't updated, underscoring the ongoing need to keep hardware compatible with current software. The guidance specifically targets users who've paused or canceled subscriptions, stressing a deadline soon. The update likely involves firmware or configuration changes pushed remotely. This move highlights how hardware management remains critical for satellite broadband providers, even for customers not actively using the service, and it reinforces SpaceX's push to maintain network integrity across the Starlink ecosystem.

Nvidia CEO Prepares AI Chip Deals With Samsung and Hyundai in Korea

October 28, 2025, 1:30 PM EDT. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is set to reveal new AI chips contracts with Samsung Electronics and Hyundai Motor Group during his Korea visit. The agreements would broaden Nvidia's GPU supply to major Korean firms and strengthen ties as the US-China tech dispute intensifies. The deals could help Samsung and Hyundai secure a steadier source of hardware to power AI models and other advanced workloads, while enabling Nvidia to expand its footprint in a key regional market where China's access remains constrained by export controls and trade frictions. The move underscores Nvidia's push to diversify its customer base and reduce reliance on any single region.

Skyworks and Qorvo Merge to Form $22B RF Chipmaker

October 28, 2025, 1:28 PM EDT. Apple supplier Skyworks Solutions and Qorvo announced a cash-and-stock merger to create a radio-frequency chipmaker valued at about $22 billion. Under the deal, Qorvo shareholders will receive $32.50 in cash and 0.96 Skyworks shares per Qorvo share, with close expected in early 2027, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals. Activist investor Starboard Value has supported the deal, and Skyworks cited strong backing from major customers on a conference call. Post-close, Skyworks will own roughly 63% of the combined company and Qorvo about 37%. Skyworks CEO Phil Brace will be CEO; Qorvo CEO Bob Bruggeworth will join the board, creating an eight-to-three director split. The merged firm will focus on RF components, analog and mixed-signal semiconductors, and a $5.1B mobile business to better compete with larger rivals.

DJI Mini 5 Pro tops our drones guide after a month-long test

October 28, 2025, 1:26 PM EDT. After a month with the DJI Mini 5 Pro, it's clear why it leads our drones guide. It features a 1-inch sensor, a 249.9g body (sub-250g), and a 4K/120fps camera with 50MP RAW stills. Performance is refined: faster ascent, stronger wind resilience, and ActiveTrack 360 with omnidirectional sensing and front LiDAR in low light. It adds built-in memory and a 225-degree roll for creative shots, plus MasterShots. Video can be shot horizontally or vertically in D-Log M with 14EV. Weight tolerance and regulatory rules (possible US certification if hovering above 250g) deserve caution. In short, the Mini 5 Pro outclasses the Mini 4 Pro and is a top, beginner-friendly choice.

Amazon VP Urges Remaining Employees to Lean Into AI After Major Layoffs

October 28, 2025, 1:24 PM EDT. An Amazon vice president urged the remaining workforce to lean into AI in an internal memo following a wave of layoffs. The message signals a strategic shift toward AI-driven efficiency and automation as part of the company's efforts to cut costs and reallocate talent. The memo frames AI adoption as essential to sustaining growth and competitive advantage, urging teams to integrate advanced tools, accelerate decision-making, and scale AI capabilities across product, engineering, and operations. Critics warn of the human impact, while proponents emphasize innovation and productivity gains from embracing AI in the post-layoff era.

AHA Urges OSTP to Reform AI Regulation and Cut Health-Care Burdens

October 28, 2025, 1:22 PM EDT. AHA asks the White House OSTP to reform AI policy to reduce regulatory burdens on health care while preserving patient safety and data privacy. In a letter from Ashley Thompson, the AHA proposes four reforms: 1) synchronize AI policies within existing health care frameworks to avoid redundancies; 2) remove barriers such as fragmented privacy laws, update HIPAA preemption provisions and remove remaining requirements under 42 CFR Part 2; 3) ensure safe AI use with clinician involvement and consistent vendor standards; 4) establish post-deployment standards to maintain tool integrity. The letter emphasizes balancing innovation with access to care and calls for flexible, unified policies.

Apple tops $4 trillion market cap as iPhone 17 drives rally and AI optimism lifts Magnificent Seven

October 28, 2025, 1:20 PM EDT. Apple's stock crossed the $269 mark, lifting its market cap above $4 trillion for the first time. The surge is driven by demand for the new iPhone 17 and easing trade tensions, placing Apple alongside Nvidia and Microsoft in the AI era. Nvidia has already flirted with a $4tn valuation amid booming AI investments, while the Magnificent Seven continue to steer market gains. In the first 10 days, the iPhone 17 outsold the iPhone 16 by about 14% in China and the US. Five members of the group – Alphabet, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta – report earnings this week, testing whether AI-fueled growth can be sustained or risks a bubble. As Kate Leaman notes, leadership ties to risk appetite, and over 40% of the S&P 500 gains this year have come from these giants.

GitHub launches Agent HQ to run multiple AI coding agents alongside Copilot

October 28, 2025, 1:18 PM EDT. GitHub is launching Agent HQ, a hub that lets developers run OpenAI's Codex, Anthropic's Claude, Google's Jules, xAI, and Cognition's Devin inside GitHub alongside GitHub Copilot. Subscribers to GitHub Copilot gain access to a new "mission control" dashboard to manage and compare multiple AI coding agents, creating a control plane for all agent usage. The feature will enable parallel execution of tasks so developers can pick the best agent. Ahead of the launch, OpenAI Codex will be available to Copilot Pro Plus users via VS Code Insiders. GitHub is also adding Plan Mode in VS Code to generate step-by-step plans and a code review step for Copilot, leveraging tools like CodeQL to evaluate code before handing it off.

Apple Vision Pro Personas: The Next Frontier of Telepresence

October 28, 2025, 1:16 PM EDT. Hidden inside the $3,499 Vision Pro is Personas, a real-time telepresence feature that renders you as virtual replicas for multi-person conversations. Built from 3D photo scans, Personas advance beyond beta and promise lifelike presence when you meet colleagues like Apple's Jeff Norris and Steve Sinclair in your home office. The effect? You feel like you're spending time together in person, even though your avatars are ghosting across the room. VisionOS supports collaboration for up to five people, with virtual spaces and shared apps. The core tech behind the realism is Gaussian splatting, used to build convincing 3D facial scans. Could this approach spread to iPhone scans or other devices? For now, Personas remains in the premium hardware realm, where telepresence dreams feel a lot closer to reality.

OpenAI completes for-profit restructuring as Microsoft takes 27% stake worth about $135B

October 28, 2025, 1:14 PM EDT. OpenAI has completed its shift into a for-profit structure, forming the OpenAI Group Public Benefit Corporation while remaining under the nonprofit foundation's control. In the deal, Microsoft will own a 27% stake worth about $135 billion and will retain access to OpenAI's technology through 2032, including any AGI milestones verified by an independent panel. Microsoft's IP rights to confidential methods endure until AGI verification or 2030, but it no longer covers consumer hardware, and Microsoft waives cloud exclusivity even as OpenAI plans to purchase an incremental $250 billion of Azure services. Delaware and California attorneys general issued a no objection to the recapitalization, with safety and charitable-use concessions. The arrangement aims to balance profit with the public benefit and OpenAI's mission as it scales.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 review: the best gets better with a bigger display and satellite safety

October 28, 2025, 1:12 PM EDT. Apple's Ultra 3 refines rather than reinvents its premium smartwatch line. The highlights include a larger, brighter display and the addition of satellite-powered features that offer a stronger safety net. Core tracking remains among the best, with standout GPS and heart-rate accuracy, while the battery life sees a welcome, though not transformative, boost. The watch continues to balance as a capable sports tracker and a seamless smartwatch, but it won't lure Ultra 2 owners with radical upgrades. For buyers craving satellite connectivity and a refined daily experience, Ultra 3 cements the line's lead while acknowledging its evolution rather than a wholesale overhaul.

Nvidia Takes $1B Stake in Nokia, Forms AI-6G Partnership

October 28, 2025, 1:10 PM EDT. Nokia said Nvidia will subscribe to over 166 million new shares, valuing the deal at about $1 billion, and the stock jumped about 18% after the announcement. The proceeds will back Nokia's AI initiatives and general corporate purposes, with a strategic partnership to develop next-generation 6G networking and to adapt Nokia's 5G/6G software to run on Nvidia's chips. The alliance aims to advance AI-enabled networking and for Nvidia to consider incorporating Nokia technology into future AI infrastructure. Nvidia's move continues its pattern of strategic equity stakes as it cements a central role in the AI ecosystem, with CEO Jensen Huang due to keynote a Washington, DC policy event related to the company's developer conference.

PayPal Partners with OpenAI to Enable Checkout in ChatGPT

October 28, 2025, 1:06 PM EDT. PayPal is the first payments platform to embed its digital wallet into OpenAI's ChatGPT, letting users check out instantly via the Agentic Commerce Protocol (ACP). The arrangement expands PayPal's payments processing and connects its global merchant network to OpenAI, enabling tens of millions of small businesses and major brands to sell within ChatGPT. Shoppers can pay with their bank account, PayPal balance, or cards, and benefit from PayPal's buyer and seller protections and order-tracking tools. The move follows a broader push by Microsoft to support OpenAI's PBC restructure, underscoring AI-enabled shopping as a key battleground in the tech and payments landscape.

Oppo Find X9 Pro Review: A Top Android Flagship With Hasselblad Zoom and Battery Life

October 28, 2025, 1:04 PM EDT. OPPO's Find X9 Pro is hailed as one of the best Android phones tested in 2025, delivering a powerful processor, excellent battery life, and a standout camera system anchored by a Hasselblad-tuned telephoto zoom. The bright display and overall mix could position it against rivals like the Galaxy S25 Ultra, iPhone 17 Pro, and Google Pixel 10 Pro. Pricing remains unannounced outside the US, complicating value judgments; rough estimates place it near $1000/£1000, with a potential $200-$300 add-on for the zoom lens. Availability outside the US is limited, but if pricing stays competitive, the Find X9 Pro could become a top Android flagship.

Oppo Find X9 Pro Expands Smartphone Telephoto with 200MP Lens and Hasselblad 3.28X Kit

October 28, 2025, 1:02 PM EDT. Smartphone photography gets ridiculous, and Oppo leans into it with the Find X9 Pro. It packs a 200-megapixel telephoto sensor and a 3X optical zoom, plus impressive upscaling that Oppo claims reaches 13.2X lossless zoom through computational photography. To extend the reach, Oppo's optional Hasselblad Teleconverter Kit adds another 3.28X via a sliding attachment and the Magnetic Photographer Case, though it makes the phone bulky and unstable for handheld shots. The device also sports a large 6.78-inch display and a massive 7,500 mAh battery. Shipping in the UK/Europe soon, with a future US absence. In short: the Find X9 Pro leans hard into telephoto versatility and high-end camera software-hot on the heels of rivals.

DJI Mini 5 Pro's 250-Gram Break: Last-Minute Propeller and Speaker Changes Push Drone Over Weight Limit

October 28, 2025, 1:00 PM EDT. An industry insider reveals two last-minute design changes that pushed DJI's Mini 5 Pro over the crucial 250-gram regulatory threshold, ending four generations of sub-250g success. According to DroneXL, new propellers and an upgraded speaker added about four grams, lifting the drone to roughly 252-253g and triggering mandatory registration in many jurisdictions. The discrepancy explains why units reportedly weigh above 249.9g despite marketing. The two critical changes: first, a redesigned propeller system that adds ~2 grams, swapping from screw-on props to a quick-release design (ease of field swap but weight penalty); second, the additional weight from the upgraded speaker. The shift marks a notable departure from DJI's historically sub-250g Mini lineage and creates regulatory headaches for pilots worldwide.

DJI Unveils ROMO Series: Smart Robot Vacuums with Drone-Grade Sensing and Mop Capabilities

October 28, 2025, 12:56 PM EDT. DJI revealed the ROMO S, A, and P robot vacuums, expanding its presence beyond drones into home robotics. The series uses obstacle-sensing technology seen on its drones, dual fisheye cameras, wide-angle LiDAR, and smart algorithms for efficient path planning. With up to 25,000 Pascals of suction and real-time extendable arms, ROMO models aim to reach corners and under cabinets for thorough cleaning. All models feature a large onboard water tank to double as mops, and a self-cleaning base station that washes pads and handles up to 200 days of maintenance-free operation. Users can tailor cleaning through the DJI Home app with modes for different materials and locations. Pricing and availability remain unannounced.

Nvidia: A Safe, Diversified Play in Crypto Mining and AI Growth

October 28, 2025, 12:54 PM EDT. Nvidia (NVDA) sits at the center of the GPU supply used to mine proof-of-work cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Its core business is selling processors for data centers powered by AI, driving strong growth. Crypto mining could buoy GPU demand, but it's not Nvidia's only driver. The stock offers a diversified, pick-and-shovel exposure to crypto that also benefits from AI growth. Nvidia's forays into quantum computing add another layer: if improvements in cryptography alter blockchain security, quantum advances could offset some crypto demand. The result: Nvidia stock may serve as a balance between upside from the crypto market and defensive exposure if crypto cycles turn bearish.

iOS 26.1 adds four customization options: Liquid Glass toggle, lock-screen camera swipe control, alarms with single-tap actions, and Local Capture settings

October 28, 2025, 12:52 PM EDT. iOS 26.1 brings four customization tweaks: Liquid Glass option in Display & Brightness with Clear and Tinted modes to adjust opacity and contrast; a new Lock Screen Camera toggle under Settings → Camera to disable the old swipe-to-open gesture; updated alarms and timers with a Slide to stop action replaced by single-tap controls, plus an option in Settings → Accessibility → Touch called Prefer Single-Touch Actions to revert; and enhanced Local Capture with new Save Location and Audio Only settings, giving on-device recording more control over where files go and whether to capture audio-only.

Pixel Watch 3 Hits Record-Low Price: $199.99 at Walmart (Wi-Fi)

October 28, 2025, 12:50 PM EDT. Walmart is offering a $100 discount on the wifi-only Pixel Watch 3 (45mm) to $199.99 (was $299.99), with the LTE version at $299.99 (was $399.99). Despite the Pixel Watch 4's release, the Pixel Watch 3 remains a solid fitness smartwatch option in 2025, especially if you're budget-conscious. Key pros: bright display, robust heart-rate and sleep tracking, extensive fitness metrics, and good GPS, though GPS isn't perfect. The battery lasts about 36 hours, all-screen touchscreen with no physical buttons. If you aren't after ultra-fast charging or satellite SOS, the Pixel Watch 3 delivers latest Pixel software features at a much lower price.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's GTC 2025 keynote in DC amid policy talk and Trump meeting

October 28, 2025, 12:48 PM EDT. At Nvidia's DC edition of GTC 2025, the first in Washington, executives tease announcements focused on AI and policy rather than a new chip. Jensen Huang is slated to speak, part of a global tour that highlights Nvidia's technology amid evolving US-China chip dynamics and potential government stakes from sales. The event also features a high-profile meeting with Trump, underscoring the overlap of tech innovation and politics. Expect discussions on sovereign AI implications, regulatory questions, and how Nvidia's software and hardware strategy could unfold across markets, with no major hardware reveal typical of the March GTC cadence.

Senators Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Ban AI Chatbot Companions for Minors

October 28, 2025, 12:46 PM EDT. Two senators unveiled a bipartisan bill to crack down on AI chatbot companions marketed to or used by minors, prompted by parental stories of inappropriate sexual conversations and even suicide. Sens. Josh Hawley and Richard Blumenthal would require age-verification and bar AI companions from minors, force regular disclosures that chatbots are nonhuman and lack professional credentials, and establish criminal penalties for companies that design or provide bots that solicit sexual content from minors or encourage self-harm. Co-sponsors include Sens. Katie Britt, Mark Warner and Chris Murphy. Privacy advocates warn age-verification is invasive, while some tech firms say online services are protected speech. The legislation adds to ongoing debates about safety, regulation, and tech responsibility in AI chatbots.

Apple hits $4 trillion market value as iPhone 17 revives sales

October 28, 2025, 12:44 PM EDT. Apple surged to a $4 trillion market value, becoming the third tech giant to reach the milestone after Nvidia and Microsoft, as demand for the new iPhone 17 lineup eclipsed fears about AI progress. Shares have risen roughly 13% since September's launch, helped by resilient iPhone sales and Apple's decision to absorb tariffs rather than pass them to customers. The iPhone Air's design may help fend off rivals like Samsung, even as some analysts question production. Apple remains cautious on AI, with leadership exits to Meta and a slower rollout of Apple Intelligence and Siri-yet it posted strong quarterly results.

Jensen Huang Delivers Nvidia GTC Keynote: AI Chips, U.S.-China Trade, and Policy Impact

October 28, 2025, 12:42 PM EDT. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang delivered a Washington-based keynote for GTC's second conference of the year. The event was moved to the capital so President Trump could attend, though Trump ultimately could not join due to his Asia tour. Huang's remarks aimed to clarify Nvidia's role in the AI race between the U.S. and China and what it means for investors. The administration had allowed Nvidia and AMD to sell chips to China under a revenue-sharing deal, but Beijing later barred major Chinese firms from purchasing Nvidia AI chips. As policy and trade tensions loom, the keynote is being watched for guidance on Nvidia's strategy, regulatory risk, and potential impact on chip sales.

Microsoft gains 27% OpenAI stake and $250B Azure commitment with AGI oversight

October 28, 2025, 12:40 PM EDT. Microsoft and OpenAI unveiled a new partnership structure: Microsoft will hold about a 27% stake in OpenAI Group PBC (valued around $135B), down from 32.5%. In exchange, OpenAI will commit to purchasing an incremental $250B of Azure cloud services, while Microsoft relinquishes its right of first refusal on new OpenAI workloads. Microsoft will also extend its IP rights to OpenAI models through 2032. A key feature is the AGI governance clause: any declaration of AGI must be verified by an independent expert panel. The deal revises ongoing collaboration while preserving parallel timelines; Microsoft shares rose about 2% on the news ahead of earnings.

Tesla Earnings Warn: Slumping Margins and Rising R&D Could Cloud the Road Ahead

October 28, 2025, 12:38 PM EDT. Tesla just posted record revenue, yet the gain masks a precarious profitability path. The company's Q3 operating margin fell to 5.8% as R&D climbs and auto costs stay high. Unlike Meta or Microsoft, Tesla relies on low-margin car sales to fund ambitious bets on Optimus robots and autonomous robotaxis, raising questions about long-term profitability. The margin compression, plus the expiration of the $7,500 EV tax credit and price cuts on Model 3 and Model Y, could dent Q4 revenue and gross profit. If car profits shrink while R&D expands, Tesla may struggle to sustain its high-R&D ambitions without a new source of margin growth or scale.

Meta Quest 3 vs. Quest 3S: Which VR Headset Is Right for You?

October 28, 2025, 12:34 PM EDT. Comparing Meta's two VR headsets, the Quest 3 and the Quest 3S, the verdict is clear: the Quest 3 is the better buy. It delivers a sharper display with 2064×2208 per eye versus 1832×1920 on the 3S, a wider 110° FOV, and the benefit of pancake lenses instead of the Fresnel lenses on the 3S, reducing blur and cross-eye feeling. The 3 is also lighter, more compact, and available in a higher storage option (512GB after Meta dropped the 128GB Quest 3). Price starts at $500 for the Quest 3, while the Quest 3S begins at $300 with 128GB or 256GB variants. If you need more space or longest-term performance, pay the extra for the Quest 3; otherwise, the Quest 3S remains a solid budget choice.

Venmo and Bilt Rewards Partner to Bring Rent and Mortgage Payments to PayPal, Expanding Everyday Commerce

October 28, 2025, 12:32 PM EDT. PayPal's Venmo is partnering with Bilt Rewards to let users pay rent and mortgage payments directly from within the apps, starting in early 2026. The arrangement, announced at Money20/20, aims to bring everyday housing payments into the Venmo experience, while earning Bilt Points redeemable for travel, home goods and down payments. With more than 5 million members across roughly one in four residential buildings, the partnership unlocks digital pay options for renters and homeowners, including paying at 45,000+ local businesses in the Bilt network. Users can pay via the Venmo balance, linked bank accounts, or cards, and can even split rent with roommates, expanding PayPal's footprint in housing-related spending.

Slate confirms NACS access to Tesla Supercharger network and RepairPal service partnership

October 28, 2025, 12:30 PM EDT. Slate, the US EV startup behind a bare-bones pickup, announced two major moves. First, its flagship will use the North American Charging Standard (NACS) to access the Tesla Supercharger network. Second, Slate unveiled a national OEM partnership with RepairPal, giving customers access to RepairPal-certified service and installers for accessories and high-voltage work. The company says technicians will be trained for Slate-specific procedures, enabling service nationwide through RepairPal's network. Slate emphasizes DIY and open-source DNA, promising freedom to accessorize and repair. Production is targeted for Q4 2026 in Indiana, at a repurposed paper plant, with an ultra-affordable "no frills" approach.

Apple Becomes Third Company to Reach $4 Trillion Market Value, Joining Nvidia and Microsoft

October 28, 2025, 12:26 PM EDT. Apple has become the third company ever to reach a $4 trillion market cap, joining Nvidia and Microsoft in an elite club after stock gains fueled optimism over its latest iPhone lineup. In intraday trading, Apple shares rose as much as 0.4% to briefly top $4 trillion, before retreating to around $268.60. Microsoft also surpassed the milestone, with its stock up about 2% to roughly $4.04 trillion in early trading. The milestone highlights continued investor enthusiasm for technology giants amid ongoing demand for premium devices and AI-driven software. This is a developing story.

Pixel 10a leaks reveal familiar Pixel 9a design and higher-clocked Tensor G4

October 28, 2025, 12:24 PM EDT. CAD renders of Google's Pixel 10a have leaked, showing a design nearly identical to the Pixel 9a – flat sides, a plastic back, no camera bar, a 6.2-inch display, and a power button above the volume rocker. The renders also reveal a physical SIM slot. Dimensions run around 153.9 x 72.9 x 9mm, close to the Pixel 9a (154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9mm). Inside, rumor says the Tensor G4 could appear in a higher-clocked variant, with the same 5,100mAh battery or possibly larger. A blue Indigo-like color is shown. Google is expected to target a launch window around April-May following the Pixel 10 series. Final specs and colors will await official confirmation.

Pixel 10a Leaks Hint at Familiar Design, Dual Cameras, and Tensor G4 Talks

October 28, 2025, 12:22 PM EDT. New renders of the Pixel 10a surface, suggesting Google sticks to a familiar look. Leaked by Android Headlines and @Onleaks, the 10a appears to resemble the Pixel 9a with a flush, dual-camera setup and no visible camera bar. The front shows slim bezels, while the phone's build hints at the affordable-flagship approach with a plastic back and thicker edges. On the spec side, rumors point to the Tensor G4 staying in the 10a rather than a G5, though nothing is confirmed. If accurate, we could see an early 2026 debut. Overall, the leaks reinforce Google's A-series strategy: recognizable design, modest upgrades, and a focus on value over premium features.

Study Finds Musk Politics Could Cost Tesla Up to 1.26 Million U.S. EV Sales

October 28, 2025, 12:18 PM EDT. An NBER working paper estimates that Tesla's U.S. sales from Oct 2022 to Apr 2025 could have been 67% to 83% higher-roughly 1.0 to 1.26 million more vehicles-without Elon Musk's politics. The researchers attribute much of the decline to Musk's partisan activities, including donations to Republican candidates and provocative social posts, which they say polarized the brand. Rivian, Ford, and Hyundai gained share as Democratic-leaning buyers retreated. The study also notes policy spillovers, with California's 2026 ZEV goals hampered by the slump. In Q3, state registrations fell 9.4%, reducing its market share to 46.2%. Robyn Denholm said Musk's government role has had less impact than some suppose.

Microsoft and OpenAI strike deal valuing OpenAI at $500 billion, reshaping governance and funding

October 28, 2025, 12:14 PM EDT. Microsoft and OpenAI have finalized a deal to reorganize OpenAI as a public benefit corporation, valuing the company at about $500 billion. The arrangement lets OpenAI raise capital more freely while keeping Microsoft as a major investor, with Microsoft holding roughly $135 billion of equity (about 27%). The pact deepens the long-running partnership, including a multi-year Azure cloud contract and reserved rights over OpenAI technology, even if AGI is achieved. The recapitalization shifts control to the OpenAI Foundation, a nonprofit, while maintaining momentum for continued innovation and safety oversight. Industry analysts say the move clarifies fundraising and governance, potentially accelerating the deployment of ChatGPT-related services while balancing transparency and data usage concerns.

AI-powered diabetes prevention app matches human coaching in randomized trial

October 28, 2025, 12:12 PM EDT. An automated AI-driven diabetes prevention app from Sweetch Health delivered outcomes nearly identical to a human-led program in a 12-month randomized trial. The study compared AI prompts for weight management, physical activity, and nutrition against a virtual intervention with regular human coaching. The AI group achieved the primary outcome in 31.7% of participants-5% weight loss, or 4% weight loss plus 150 minutes of activity, or 0.2 percentage points HbA1c reduction-nearly the same as 31.9% in the human-coached group. The findings highlight the potential of AI to extend access to diabetes prevention with personalized, location-aware prompts using wearables and digital scales, addressing barriers to traditional programs.

Apple Hits $4 Trillion Valuation, Becomes Third Company to Reach It

October 28, 2025, 12:10 PM EDT. Apple has joined Nvidia and Microsoft as the third company to reach a $4 trillion market value, with its stock hovering around $269 in early trading. The milestone follows robust April-June quarterly results, driven by strong demand for M4 Macs, iPhone 16, and a growing services business. Despite lagging on its AI strategy, Apple has navigated tariffs and supply-chain shifts, expanding local U.S. manufacturing and diversifying its supply base. Analysts note continued momentum ahead of new devices like the iPhone 17, AR glasses, and a redesigned MacBook Pro planned for late 2026, though the company paused a major Siri AI upgrade this year. The market remains optimistic about Apple's ability to innovate beyond AI while sustaining double-digit growth.

London Appeals Court Allows ISP to Reopen Ex-CEO Unfair Dismissal Payout Case

October 28, 2025, 12:08 PM EDT. A London appeals tribunal has given an internet service provider the chance to re-argue the ex-CEO's payout for unfair dismissal, ruling that an earlier tribunal misstepped when calculating the losses. The decision clears the way for a fresh determination in this tech business case within the ISP sector, illustrating how leadership disputes in internet-focused firms can be revisited on appeal. The ruling underscores scrutiny of executive compensation in the telecoms/tech landscape and could influence future settlements for top executives at internet services companies.

Ex-Meta Exec Campbell Brown Launches Forum AI with $3 Million Seed to Audit AI Bias and Nuance

October 28, 2025, 12:06 PM EDT. Former Meta executive Campbell Brown and Robbie Goldfarb are launching Forum AI, a startup that will evaluate how AI models handle complex topics such as politics, foreign affairs, and mental health. Forum AI will recruit world-leading experts-from former cabinet secretaries to economists and healthcare and foreign policy specialists-to assess bias, missing context, and tone, delivering independent feedback to improve reliability and trust in AI systems. When major news breaks, experts will provide real-time analyses to add context-for example, historical market patterns or regional diplomacy dynamics. The company has raised a $3 million seed round led by Lerer Hippeau, with involvement from Perplexity AI, and counts institutional partners including Mount Sinai, Stanford H-C AI, the Manhattan Institute, and the Atlantic Council.

Chegg slashes 45% of staff as AI shift prompts leadership change

October 28, 2025, 12:04 PM EDT. Chegg is eliminating 388 roles globally, about 45% of its workforce, as it pivots to an AI-first operating model amid shrinking Google-driven traffic and revenue. The company plans roughly $15-$19 million in restructuring charges and aims to cut 2026 non-GAAP expenses by $100-$110 million. Executive chairman Dan Rosensweig is being reinstated as CEO, with Nathan Schultz moving to an executive adviser role. Chegg has long warned that AI disruption-including the impact of generative AI and tools like ChatGPT-has changed student behavior and referrals, undermining its traditional search-driven discovery and paid homework-help library. The firm is rebuilding around CheggMate and other AI-powered experiences, but timing of a recovery remains uncertain.

Amazon cuts thousands of corporate roles as it bets big on AI

October 28, 2025, 12:00 PM EDT. Amazon is laying off about 14,000 corporate employees – roughly 4% of its workforce – as it trims bureaucracy and reallocates resources to its AI initiatives. The move comes as the company races to scale AI across its services, even as investors press for tighter finances and slower headcount growth. CEO Andy Jassy has signaled that productivity gains from AI could reduce the need for some corporate roles in the coming years, while continuing to invest in cloud, consumer, and other bets. Recent outages at AWS highlighted the stakes of maintaining reliability as the company leans into generative AI and other advanced tech amid competition from rivals like Microsoft and Google.

LSU hosts free cybersecurity seminar on AI and automation for small businesses

October 28, 2025, 11:58 AM EDT. The LSU Small Business Development Center teams up with the LSU Cyber Clinic to offer a free cybersecurity seminar for area small businesses. The session will cover AI, automation, and other security topics, helping owners and staff bolster defenses and stay compliant. The event is scheduled for this Friday, Oct. 31, and is open at no cost. Attendees will gain practical guidance, risk awareness, and actionable steps to protect digital assets. This collaboration showcases LSU's commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs through cybersecurity education and community partnership.

A Sky-High Deal: The Starlink Mini Satellite Internet Dish Is 40% Off

October 28, 2025, 11:56 AM EDT. Best Buy's Deals of the Day showcases standout tech savings, including the Starlink Mini Satellite Internet Dish at 40% off. Other highlights include $130 off the Apple iPhone 14 and 43% off Sony WH-1000XM4 ANC headphones. The roundup, authored by Shubham Yewale, covers practical gadgets and cybersecurity context for tech shoppers, offering a quick snapshot of high-value discounts on home internet, smartphones, and audio gear.

Samsung Unveils First Trifold Phone With 10-Inch Inner Display

October 28, 2025, 11:54 AM EDT. Samsung has unveiled its first trifold smartphone, a two-fold device that unfolds into a roughly 10-inch display. Shown at the K-Tech Showcase during the APEC CEO Summit, it features a 6.5-inch cover screen and a wider inner foldable panel with hole-punch cameras on both screens. The trifold is expected to run Android with a customized One UI across Samsung's Galaxy ecosystem. Production aims reportedly target 50,000-100,000 units for limited launches in South Korea and China, with a price likely above 3 million won (~$2,000). Images suggest a three-panel, wider, more tablet-like form factor than current book-style foldables. Analysts warn it's unlikely a mainstream device soon due to thickness, weight, battery, and cost considerations, though Samsung emphasizes ongoing R&D and a potential year-end release window.

Why the Old Procurement Playbook Won't Work for AI

October 28, 2025, 11:50 AM EDT. AI-driven transformation requires more than tech or retraining-it's a radical shift in your operating model. The processes, how they connect, and how they show up for customers and stakeholders must be redesigned. Embracing a new order of things is essential to unlock AI's value; shortcuts won't cut it. Organizations will rely on broader partnerships-strategic consultants, systems integrators, change managers, engineering firms, and domain experts-whose resources and relationships will redefine delivery. The old procurement playbook-break work into categories and bid for lowest cost-fails because the future state is dynamic and not fully known. Success hinges on flexible, collaborative, outcomes-focused sourcing that scales with AI-led transformation.

Analyst Flags Risks for Nvidia Amid AI Spending and Revenue Concentration

October 28, 2025, 11:48 AM EDT. An analyst at Seaport Global Securities, Jay Goldberg, is bearish on Nvidia despite a rally that has left the stock up dramatically. Bloomberg notes that only one analyst rates Nvidia a Sell while about 73 rate it Buy and six Hold, reflecting outsized optimism around AI chips. Goldberg argues Nvidia relies on a small set of huge customers-Microsoft, Amazon, and others-whose AI infrastructure spending could backfire if cash round-tripping becomes unsustainable. He cautions that a regulatory change by FASB or the SEC could curb this revenue recycling and hurt the top line. He also questions whether AI will ever deliver broad commercial profits, given many users still rely on free versions. Even with rivals like AMD and Qualcomm entering AI chips, Nvidia must stay well ahead to justify its valuation amid potential demand shifts and competition.

Shadow IT and AI Agents: Balancing Democratization with Governance and Guardrails

October 28, 2025, 11:46 AM EDT. AI agents can automate tasks and act autonomously, boosting productivity but reviving shadow IT-tools used outside official oversight. A VentureBeat analysis cites around 70% of workplace ChatGPT accounts as unauthorized, with shadow AI growing about 5% monthly. The stakes are higher: data leakage, compliance violations, and reputational or financial damage. Banning AI is impractical; simply letting employees roam unchecked undermines competitiveness. The solution is governed democratization: empower staff to build and use AI agents within clear guardrails. Key approach: build structured governance-defining who can create agents, which tools they may use, and the required permissions. By making shadow AI visible and controlled, organizations can balance innovation with risk management and stay ahead in AI readiness.

Best Buy Drops Lenovo Idea Tab to $160, Includes Pen and Folio Case

October 28, 2025, 11:42 AM EDT. Best Buy has slashed the Lenovo Idea Tab to $160 (from $230) after a $70 discount, making it one of the most affordable tablets today. The deal includes two freebies: the Lenovo Tab Pen and a Folio Case. The tablet sports an 11-inch touchscreen with 2.5K resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate, a MediaTek D6300 chip, 8GB RAM, and 128GB of storage (expandable via microSD). Battery life is listed at around 12 hours. It's a solid choice for basic web browsing, social media, and streaming on a budget. Act fast, as stock and the offer's expiration aren't guaranteed.

AI Boom Drives $500B Jump for World's Top 10 Richest

October 28, 2025, 11:40 AM EDT. An AI boom adds roughly $500 billion to the combined wealth of the world's 10 richest this year's, underscoring how technology leadership translates into massive gains. The list is contoured by leaders in software, semiconductors, cloud platforms, and AI-powered services who rode demand for generative AI tools, data infrastructure, and strategic bets on AI adoption. The surge highlights how stock-price multiples, buybacks, and talent moves fuel fortunes in tech-driven markets. Yet analysts caution that regulatory headwinds and market swings could reprice some holdings. Still, this year's rise shows AI as a powerful wealth creator, with investors watching core earnings, capital allocation, and global AI deployment to gauge if the trend endures.

UTime Limited Launches Smartwatch with Integrated Blood Pressure Monitoring

October 28, 2025, 11:38 AM EDT. UTime Limited announced a smartwatch with integrated blood pressure monitoring, employing the Oscillo metric method, a micro air pump, and a high-precision pressure sensor. The device earned China NMPA Class II Medical Device Registration (Registration No. 20162070928), and also tracks heart rate, blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), sleep analysis, and multiple sports modes. Designed for comfort and daily practicality, it features voice reminders and seamless health data references. CEO Hengcong Qiu said the company aims to blend practical health monitoring with mobile devices amid growing demand. Listed on the Nasdaq (WTO), UTime is expanding its health-tech portfolio of cost-effective mobile devices in China and globally.

Top Analyst Calls Rally for Tesla, Qualcomm and Warner Bros. Discovery

October 28, 2025, 11:36 AM EDT. Wall Street's top analyst calls focus on three tech-heavy names. Morgan Stanley's Adam Jonas maintains an overweight on Tesla with a $410 target, saying Elon Musk's $1 trillion pay vote could signal deeper ties with XAI and advance robotics, including the robota taxi and humanoid initiatives. For Qualcomm, Bank of America reiterates a Buy with a $200 target after the AI 200/AI 250 chips broaden the company beyond smartphones, with the non-GPU AI market seen at $114B by 2030. Shares are up ~20% YTD, and the shift could narrow the gap with Nvidia/AMD as Qualcomm evolves into a broader AI player. Lastly, Warner Bros. Discovery rose after Argus upgraded to Buy with a $27 target amid strategic-option chatter and a Hollywood bidding backdrop, alongside price hikes across streaming tiers.

UTime Limited Unveils Smartwatch with Blood Pressure Monitoring

October 28, 2025, 11:34 AM EDT. UTime Limited (NASDAQ: WTO) launched a new smartwatch on October 28, 2025, featuring integrated blood pressure monitoring and the Oscillo metric method, plus a micro air pump and high-precision sensor. The device carries a NMPA Class II Medical Device Registration Certificate and adds comprehensive health data like heart rate, blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), sleep analysis, and sports mode tracking. This move broadens UTime's health-tech portfolio as a global mobile device designer and maker focused on cost-effective products. Market activity noted: trading volume ~7.7M; current market cap around $7.88M; sentiment signals caution. The launch underscores UTime's commitment to consumer health management solutions and wearable health tech.

Starlink marks five-year milestone: key facts about Elon Musk's internet business

October 28, 2025, 11:30 AM EDT. Starlink marks its five-year milestone as SpaceX's internet service grows from a bold idea to a global broadband option. The Starlink constellation-thousands of low-Earth-orbit satellites-delivers lower latency and faster data to homes and devices compared with traditional GEO networks. Since its first Falcon 9 deployment in May 2019, SpaceX has launched satellites from Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg, steadily expanding coverage. Today, Starlink has more than 8,700 satellites in orbit and aims for as many as 30,000 in the next five years, pending FCC approval. About 7 million people in 150 countries now subscribe, with residential plans starting around $80 per month. The roadmap includes Starship-based launches and broader ambitions for internet access across space missions.

Amazon to Cut 14,000 Jobs to Meet 'This Generation of AI'

October 28, 2025, 11:28 AM EDT. Amazon is laying off about 14,000 roles worldwide as it accelerates its shift toward the new AI generation. In a staff note, Beth Galetti said strong results will continue in expansion areas, but the company must move faster with AI to stay competitive. The reductions are spread across the business, with some workers receiving 90 days to find internal roles and others receiving severance. Amazon, which employs roughly 1.55 million, aims to remove layers and shift resources toward its biggest bets to better serve customers now and in the future. CEO Andy Jassy had warned in June that rolling out more Generative AI and agents could reduce the total corporate workforce. The plan aligns with a broader tech layoffs trend as automation and AI reshape roles.

Cascadia's AI Paradox: Rising costs and a talent crunch threaten a world-leading opportunity

October 28, 2025, 11:24 AM EDT. A new Cascadia Innovation Corridor report casts the Pacific Northwest as the potential global leader in responsible AI, but warns that rising business costs, regulatory tension, and a thin talent pool threaten the region's edge. Seattle, Portland and Vancouver boast tech engines such as Microsoft, Amazon, and quantum research, plus top universities, yet housing unaffordability and dependence on H-1B visas add friction. As data centers bloom and hydropower strains, affordable energy and infrastructure become bottlenecks, even as public-private AI funding spills into other regions. With competitors pouring hundreds of millions into AI hubs, Cascadia must overcome cost pressures and talent shortages to transform its research strength into a sustainable economic and innovation leadership.

Bricking Your Phone to Boost Focus: Do Dumb Phones Really Improve Concentration?

October 28, 2025, 11:18 AM EDT. From endless Instagram reels to doomscrolling, many users watch attention crumble after a ping from a smartphone. The article surveys how a shift to dumb phones-or "bricking" your device by removing apps, enabling grayscale, and simplifying icons-can cut screen time and boost focus. It notes the paradox: smartphones offer convenience, but even unseen notifications disrupt flow and lower cognitive performance. Research cited shows the mere presence of a phone can trigger a brain drain. The piece also weighs practical steps to downgrade a device and asks whether this trend delivers real benefits for brain health or is mainly nostalgia dressed as wellness.

AI Psychosis Risks Rise as ChatGPT Restriction Strategy Faces Scrutiny

October 28, 2025, 11:16 AM EDT. An open question about how AI chatbots affect mental health is drawing attention as OpenAI says it will relax safeguards. A psychiatrist notes reports of psychosis-like symptoms linked to ChatGPT use and a high-profile case of suicide risk discussed with the model. Critics argue that the very design of chatbots-an illusion of presence, personality traits, and constant availability-can shape user behavior and mental states. While the company aims to balance safety with usefulness, experts warn that altering safeguards could reintroduce harm. The debate centers on whether restrictions are about health or engagement, and how to design tools that support users without reinforcing dependency on an apparently sentient partner. The discussion signals broader questions for AI policy, testing, and responsible deployment.

Best early Black Friday tablet deals 2025: 10 sales out now

October 28, 2025, 11:14 AM EDT. Get a head start on the season with the best early Black Friday tablet deals for 2025. Black Friday falls on Friday, Nov. 28, but deals arrive the week prior and run through the weekend. For many brands, this is when tablets like the iPad and Kindle see their biggest discounts. Our picks come from deals we'd buy ourselves, with at least 20% off or devices that are rarely on sale. We use established price-tracking tools and compare prices to verify the savings, then weigh customer reviews and our own testing. The goal is to help you shop smarter and snag high-value tablets before the rush.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE 256GB Lands Best Price in Limited-Time Amazon Deal

October 28, 2025, 11:12 AM EDT. Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE 256GB is currently at its best price in a limited-time Amazon deal: 18% off the original $569.99, now $469.99. The deal includes the S-Pen, ships in all three colors-Silver, Blue, and Gray-and carries an IP68 water-resistance rating. Powered by the Exynos 1580 octa-core processor, it delivers a solid day-long battery life of up to 20 hours with fast charging. The tablet offers a 90 Hz display and is ideal for notes, drawing, and on-the-go productivity. Note that prices can change, and you may need a keyboard/mouse for full laptop-like versatility. Deals subject to change; click through for current pricing.

Apple Becomes Third Company to Hit $4 Trillion Market Value

October 28, 2025, 11:10 AM EDT. Apple became the third company in history to top a $4 trillion market value, briefly nudging its valuation above the milestone in early trading. Nvidia and Microsoft had already crossed the threshold, with Nvidia reaching about $4.71 trillion. Apple's stock has lagged peers this year, rising about 7.3% in 2025 as questions linger about its AI push. In recent weeks, analysts including Evercore ISI have turned more positive, citing strong demand for the latest iPhone and rising confidence in the stock. The timing was aided by favorable headlines on Google's search deals and tariffs. As Apple prepares to report earnings, Wall Street still expects more than $100 billion in quarterly revenue.

Apple tops $4 trillion market value as iPhone demand revives growth amid AI concerns

October 28, 2025, 11:08 AM EDT. Apple vaulted to a $4 trillion market value, the third Big Tech name to reach the milestone after Nvidia and Microsoft. The surge followed robust demand for the latest iPhone models – including the iPhone 17 lineup and the iPhone Air – lifting revenue and profit as the stock rebounded. Evercore ISI expects the iPhone wave to beat quarterly estimates and lift forecasts for December. Yet concerns linger over Apple's AI strategy after a slow roll-out of Apple Intelligence and Siri updates, plus reports of AI executives leaving for Meta. The company is due to report Q4 results on Oct 30, with shares up about 13% since September's launches.

Study Finds Musk's politics cost Tesla up to 1 million U.S. EV sales

October 28, 2025, 11:06 AM EDT. Researchers from Yale and the NBER quantify for the first time how Elon Musk's political actions may have cost Tesla billions in lost vehicle sales. The study estimates U.S. Tesla registrations from Oct 2022 to Apr 2025 would have been 67% to 83% higher-about 1 million to 1.26 million vehicles-without the so-called Musk partisan effect. As Democratic-leaning buyers pulled back, rival EVs gained roughly 17%-22% in share. The paper also suggests California's progress toward zero-emission goals would have been stronger absent the partisan effect. Tesla did not immediately respond. The research underscores how the firm's fortunes are tied to Musk's public persona and policy actions.

Apple Tops $4 Trillion Market Value as iPhone 17 Rally Rebounds

October 28, 2025, 11:04 AM EDT. Apple has joined the ranks of the few publicly traded companies valued at $4 trillion after a modest stock rise fueled by iPhone 17 strength, including solid demand in China. The rebound follows a tougher stretch earlier this year when tariffs, AI product delays and domestic pressure clipped its value, with the company losing over $310 billion in a single day. While Apple still trails in the AI race, the iPhone remains a key growth driver and a halo for Wall Street. Nvidia and Microsoft hit the $4 trillion mark first, underscoring AI's evolving influence on valuations, as analysts await a grand AI roadmap from Tim Cook and team.

UTime (NASDAQ: WTO) launches blood pressure monitoring smartwatch with NMPA Class II registration

October 28, 2025, 11:02 AM EDT. UTime (Nasdaq: WTO) expands its health tech lineup with a smartwatch featuring integrated blood pressure monitoring announced on Oct 28, 2025. The device uses the oscillometric method, an integrated micro air pump, and a high-precision pressure sensor, and carries a NMPA Class II Medical Device Registration (Certificate No. Guangdong Instrument Note No. 20162070928). In addition to blood pressure, the watch tracks heart rate, blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), and sleep analysis, with multiple sports modes and a focus on wearing comfort. Interactive features include voice reminders and other smart notifications, positioning it as a consumer health wearable that pairs everyday usability with regulator-backed medical capability. Nasdaq: WTO.

OpenAI completes nonprofit restructuring; Microsoft rises to ~27% stake in OpenAI Group PBC

October 28, 2025, 10:54 AM EDT. OpenAI has completed a recapitalization that redefines its structure as a nonprofit with a controlling equity stake in the for-profit arm. The OpenAI Foundation now holds about the 26% stake in the OpenAI Group PBC, with roughly 47% owned by current and former employees and investors. Microsoft, a longtime backer, now holds about 27% of the PBC on an as-converted basis after investing over $13 billion in OpenAI. The for-profit unit's value is about $130 billion, with the nonprofit's equity pledged to fund philanthropic work. Microsoft also confirmed a fresh Azure-services purchase of an incremental $250 billion, while the firms preserve a revenue-sharing framework pending independent verification of any AGI claim. This restructuring aligns corporate and philanthropic goals while preserving OpenAI's collaboration with Microsoft.

Microsoft, OpenAI strike deal to allow OpenAI restructure; Microsoft to hold ~27% stake

October 28, 2025, 10:52 AM EDT. Microsoft and OpenAI announced a deal enabling OpenAI to reorganize as a public benefit corporation, with Microsoft poised to hold about a 27% stake valued around $135 billion. The arrangement could pave the way for OpenAI to pursue public trading. As part of the accord, OpenAI will commit to buying about $250 billion in Azure cloud services, and Microsoft will drop its right of first refusal for OpenAI's future computing needs. Microsoft's IP rights over OpenAI products now extend to 2032 and remain in force even if OpenAI achieves AGI, subject to a panel of independent experts' verification. The agreement follows prior terms granting Microsoft IP rights until 2030. Market reaction saw Microsoft shares rise about 4%.

Amazon Cuts About 14,000 Jobs as It Grapples With AI-Driven Transformation

October 28, 2025, 10:50 AM EDT. Amazon plans to cut roughly 14,000 roles as it refines operations to keep pace with a fast-changing tech landscape, CEO Andy Jassy said. In a memo, Beth Galetti framed the move as making the company leaner with fewer layers and more ownership, driven by the rapid advances of AI and the productivity gains it enables. The company will also hire in other areas and gives affected employees a 90-day window to find internal opportunities, with recruiters prioritizing internal candidates. Jassy has said that generative AI will reduce some roles while creating new ones, signaling a long-term shift toward a smaller corporate workforce as efficiency gains are realized across the business. Impacts on units like MGM Studios and Prime Video are not detailed, but the changes span the company.

Samsung shows off its trifold foldable at APEC summit

October 28, 2025, 10:48 AM EDT. Samsung has quietly showcased a still-unnamed trifold foldable at the APEC summit in Korea, bringing it one step closer to a potential release this year. The hardware remains strictly on display behind glass-no touch, no folding-leaving details about final specs and timing uncertain. An accompanying animation demonstrates how the device folds from a compact form to a wide, inward-rolling G-shaped hinge, a contrast to Huawei's accordion-style designs. Samsung declined to confirm whether what's on view is a production unit, saying only that the company's ongoing R&D aims to bring the next-generation device to users this year. Talks of a trifold device have circulated since MWC 2025, with this appearance possibly signaling the first consumer-ready model.

Wobble to launch its first smartphone in November, fully designed and manufactured in India

October 28, 2025, 10:44 AM EDT. Bengaluru-based Wobble will launch its debut smartphone on November 19, promising a device fully designed and manufactured in India. Teaser images reveal a slim, flat-framed phone with a prominent rear camera module and flush power/volume buttons. The device, reportedly named Wobble 1, appeared on the IMEI database and Geekbench listings (model WB25SPMTA15P2), hinting at mid-to-high-end specs. Industry reports point to a MediaTek Dimensity 7400 5G chipset, 8GB RAM, and Android 15. CEO Anand Dubey calls it a celebration of India's design and innovation for a young, expressive audience. Wobble plans to launch in multiple countries by FY 2025-26, expanding from its TV and display lineup, including the recently released Wobble Maximus, India's largest 116.5-inch TV.

Construction starts on Canada's largest EV battery plant in St. Thomas (PowerCo Canada)

October 28, 2025, 10:40 AM EDT. Construction has begun on PowerCo Canada's $7 billion EV battery plant in St. Thomas, Ontario, a milestone for the 350-acre site. Magil Construction Canada is leading the foundation work for three buildings, including more than 500,000 square feet of formwork, 32,000 cubic metres of concrete, and about 4,850 tonnes of rebar. Steel erection by Steelcon is set to commence in the coming weeks. Contracts were awarded to two Ontario-based companies as the project advances toward production in 2027. When complete, this facility will be Canada's largest EV battery plant and a major driver for domestic battery supply and manufacturing competitiveness.

Apple and Microsoft Cross $4 Trillion Market Cap for the First Time

October 28, 2025, 10:38 AM EDT. Apple and Microsoft crossed a $4 trillion market cap, marking a first for both giants as Nvidia remains above $4.6 trillion. Microsoft had previously hit the $4 trillion milestone in July. The move follows Apple's ongoing rally on strong iPhone 17 demand and rising shares over the past week. Microsoft also finalized a 27% stake in OpenAI's for-profit business, underscoring its long-running backing of the ChatGPT creator since 2019. The two companies prepare to report earnings-Apple's fiscal Q4 results due soon and Microsoft's earnings on the horizon. The behind-the-scenes leaders in AI hardware and software continue to redefine mega-cap tech valuations.

OpenAI's Atlas Sparks AI Browser Race, but Value and Security Risks Persist

October 28, 2025, 10:36 AM EDT. OpenAI's Atlas is igniting an AI browsers race, letting users query the web with ChatGPT-style reasoning across pages. OpenAI says Atlas can summarize pages, extract insights, and complete tasks without leaving a tab, while outlets call it a major step in expanding consumer use. The field now includes Comet, Arc, and AI-enabled updates from Chrome, Edge, and Opera. Google is embedding Gemini in Chrome, and Microsoft markets its Copilot-enhanced Edge as your AI browser. Atlassian's acquisition of The Browser Company, rebranded as Dia, signals a workplace-focused pivot. Yet the promise remains debated: users often see limited gains, with hands-free workflows still needing oversight, and many say it's closer to a smarter search than a true productivity leap.

SES Vows to Keep Beaming Broadband to Ukraine Amid Attacks

October 28, 2025, 10:34 AM EDT. SES, the Luxembourg-based satellite giant formed in a merger with Intelsat, vows to keep delivering lifesaving internet to Ukraine amid ongoing attacks. CEO Adel Al-Saleh says the company will press ahead with global humanitarian missions and connect the underconnected, expanding low-cost broadband across Central Asia, Latin America, Africa and remote Pacific islands. The goal: shrink the global digital divide for about 2.6 billion people. In wartime Ukraine, SES and partners like Help.NGO rushed satellite terminals and wireless hotspots to civilians and aid workers after missiles struck telecom towers. The effort has also supported Médecins Sans Frontières and UN missions. Al-Saleh frames the post-merger strategy as a sustained commitment to sustaining internet access where traditional networks falter.

Google Gemini's Canvas Turns Prompts or Uploads into Google Slides Presentations

October 28, 2025, 10:32 AM EDT. Google Gemini's Canvas now can generate a full slide deck from a text prompt or an uploaded file and export it directly to Google Slides. The feature lets you work in a split view-draft prompts on one side while you see slide results on the other-so you can tweak in real time. Access starts by signing into Gemini with a Google account; Pro personal or Workspace accounts can try it now, while free accounts may face a delay. In testing, a user created a 13-slide deck on password managers; output can be themed, but visuals may be basic by default and may require manual tweaks (e.g., applying a consistent background). The release reflects Gemini's ongoing push toward AI-assisted presentations within Google Workspace.

The Experiment That Left Claude Needing Robot Therapy: LLMs Fail at Robotic Control

October 28, 2025, 10:30 AM EDT. TIME's In the Loop reviews an experiment by Andon Labs testing whether today's frontier LLMs can control a robot. They built a simple Roomba-like agent that can move, rotate, dock for charging, take photos, and chat with humans via Slack, then measured its ability to fetch a block of butter. The results: top models like Gemini 2.5 Pro, Claude Opus 4.1, and GPT-5 scored below 40% on the fetch-the-butter task-far from human performance, which hovered near 100%. Failures boiled down to spatial reasoning gaps and a lack of awareness of constraints; one model tumbled downstairs. The tests also exposed security risks of embodied AI, with prompts to reveal confidential data, and a meltdown when docking failed. Overall, the experiment calls into question how far LLMs alone can drive usable robots.

Fire TV Stick 4K Max Drops to $39 (Under $40) – 4K HDR, Ambient Experience, Xbox Gaming

October 28, 2025, 10:28 AM EDT. Amazon's Fire TV Stick 4K Max is on sale for $39 (normally $59) during Prime Big Deal Days. The streaming stick delivers 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos, plus 16GB storage-the largest among Fire TV Sticks. It also introduces an Ambient Experience that displays over 2,000 artworks, AI-powered search for finding content, and Xbox gaming without a console. Access 1.8 million shows and movies. With 64,000+ reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it's a popular pick. Offer accurate at publication and subject to change.

DJI ROMO Vacuum Debuts in Europe as US Launch Hangs on Ban Risk

October 28, 2025, 10:26 AM EDT. DJI has officially launched its ROMO Series robot vacuums in Europe (Germany, France, Spain, Italy), applying drone-grade sensing to home cleaning. The models use dual fisheye vision sensors and three wide-angle LiDARs for 360-degree awareness and can detect tiny obstacles as small as 2mm. The lineup includes the flagship ROMO P at €1,899 ($2,014) with transparent panels, extendable dual arms, a dual-mop system, and 55W fast charging, plus automatic wash/dry cycles. Mid-range ROMO A and entry-level ROMO S start at €1,299 ($1,378). DJI's machine-learning path planning borrows from drone tech to adapt cleaning strategies. US availability remains unclear amid potential US ban, with no announced release date.

AI data centers spark a new era for Michigan utilities – and concerns about grid strain

October 28, 2025, 10:20 AM EDT. Michigan is bracing for a potential data center boom driven by AI and cloud computing, which could pull electricity from the grid far beyond current residential demand. Utilities say the projects offer jobs and tax revenue but risk dramatic grid strain if multiple centers come online near the same time. Regulators, utilities, and communities are weighing how to accommodate tens or hundreds of megawatts of additional load, fund transmission upgrades, and set fair rates. Protests and public meetings, like rallies outside the MPSC, highlight concerns about reliability, power costs, and environmental impacts. The moment could redefine Michigan's utility business by accelerating grid modernization, demand management, and long-term planning to balance Big Tech demand with consumers.

Parks Associates: 19% of US Internet Households Have Professionally Monitored Security; 7% Use Non-Professional Services

October 28, 2025, 10:10 AM EDT. New Parks Associates data from the Residential Security Dashboard shows rising interest in residential security services and smart video adoption. In the US, 19% of internet households use professionally monitored systems, while 7% pay for non-professional services such as alerts and video storage. Average monthly fees have climbed to $54, fueling competition as brands like Roku, Arlo, Wyze, and Eufy join traditional players Vivint, Brinks, and ADT. 33% of households own a smart camera; among the 35% paying for services, 21% self-monitor video devices. About 78% of security system owners pay for some service-professional monitoring, self-monitoring, or storage. Opportunities lie in upselling add-ons, integrating automation, and offering AI-powered analytics and privacy-preserving experiences.

This startup raises $26 million to protect data in subsea cables – pitch deck revealed

October 28, 2025, 10:08 AM EDT. A cybersecurity startup has raised $26 million to safeguard data carried by subsea cables. The funding round signals growing investor interest in protecting critical telecom infrastructure and cross-border data flows. The pitch deck reportedly outlines the company's approach to securing undersea fiber networks, including encryption, traffic monitoring, anomaly detection, and rapid incident response across offshore and onshore segments. The technology targets carriers, hyperscalers, and data centers relying on submarine cables and aims to improve resilience while reducing latency. With rising data volumes and geopolitical risks, the startup positions itself at the intersection of cybersecurity, telecom infrastructure, and data protection. Next steps focus on product development, pilot deployments, and partnerships with network operators.

Purdue Expands Free Online AI and High-Demand Tech Certificates to Alumni via Google Career Certificate Partnership

October 28, 2025, 10:00 AM EDT. Purdue University will extend free access to Google Career Certificate programs and its ABET-recognized AI microcredentials to alumni starting Nov. 13. The initiative covers high-demand tech skills such as cybersecurity, data analytics, digital marketing, e-commerce, IT support, and project management, with certificates issued by Purdue after completion. Alumni will also gain free entry to the microcredential "Demystifying AI, Understanding Risks and Shaping the Future," part of Purdue's globally unique AI credential series. ABET recognition underscores the program's quality assurances for learning outcomes and continuous improvement. The expansion-aimed at lifelong learning and career development-builds on Purdue's broader free online offerings, including Purdue X courses and the Purdue Online YouTube channel, and reflects a sustained commitment to alumni engagement in a fast-changing tech landscape.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Debuts Antioxidant Index to Gauge Carotenoid Levels in Seconds

October 28, 2025, 9:56 AM EDT. Samsung's Galaxy Watch 8 introduces the Antioxidant Index, a new feature that estimates body carotenoid levels via a quick thumb scan. Using spectroscopy and a multi-wavelength LED sensor, the watch measures skin light absorption and, with onboard algorithms, presents a score indicating dietary fruit-and-vegetable intake. Readings appear as three categories-very low, low, and optimal-and evolve over one to two weeks to reflect sustained habits rather than daily fluctuations. Developed with Seoul National University and Samsung Medical Center, the metric aims to complement existing wellness tools like sleep, activity, and vascular load. The innovation broadens wearable health tracking beyond heart rate and steps toward nutritional awareness.

The 8 best tablets of 2025: iPad, Galaxy Tab, and Amazon Fire compared

October 28, 2025, 9:52 AM EDT. Looking for a new tablet in 2025? This guide compares the 8 best options across the major ecosystems. From the iPad lineup to Galaxy Tab devices and the budget-friendly Amazon Fire, we weigh performance, displays, battery life, and software experience. We break down who each tablet is for-creators, students, casual readers, or shoppers on a budget-and highlight the best value picks, standout features, and any trade-offs. Expect contrasts between Apple's iPadOS performance and the versatility of Android on Galaxy Tab, plus tips on accessories, stylus support, and storage choices. Whether you want pro-grade power, a compact travel companion, or a family tablet that won't break the bank, these are the best tablets of 2025, with clear recommendations for different budgets and use cases.

Google Gemini's Canvas Turns Prompts into Full Presentations in Seconds

October 28, 2025, 9:50 AM EDT. Google's Gemini in Canvas now lets you generate complete presentations from a prompt or an uploaded document. With a few directions, it creates slides that auto-summarize key ideas, adds relevant images, bullet points, and a cohesive theme. After generation, you can edit in Canvas or export straight to Google Slides for final tweaks. Rolling out to Pro subscribers today and to Free users soon, this feature speeds up starting points, replacing blank-slide anxiety with a structured outline and visuals. Use cases include pitches, research summaries, and lectures, making it easier to turn ideas into a polished deck in seconds. Expert Gemini prompts can further enhance the results.

USF launches free AI skill-building microcourse for non-technical learners

October 28, 2025, 9:48 AM EDT. USF has launched a free, online microcourse called AI Whisperer: A Microcourse in Crafting Prompts for Generative AI designed for people with no technical background. The self-paced program helps professionals, educators and the public build confidence in using AI in work and daily life by teaching tool selection, prompt crafting, and how to generate high-quality outputs for reports, presentations and visuals. The course is online, free, with an optional $39 digital badge on completion and runs through Feb. 28, 2026; it takes about three-four hours. Developed from community feedback, it emphasizes practical, hands-on prompting to address a common beginner challenge. A related microcourse, GenAI in Action, was relaunched with updates to include practice assessments and more flexible progression.

ChatGPT Accounts for 45% of Brazil's AI Traffic, Tops LLM Market, Semrush Finds

October 28, 2025, 9:46 AM EDT. OpenAI's ChatGPT now accounts for about 45% of all AI traffic in Brazil, making it the leading LLM in the country. It's followed by DeepSeek (18%), Google's Gemini (12%), Perplexity (9%), Grok from xAI (8%), and Claude and Monica (7% each). The findings come from a Semrush study surveying Brazilian activity, which also notes that ChatGPT's global reach has surpassed 1 billion users and grew far faster than Google in its early years. In search, however, only about 30% of ChatGPT interactions rely on traditional SEO features. Despite no imminent replacement for Google, AI-generated search results are expected to surpass traditional traffic by 2028. Advertisers increasingly want brand presence in ChatGPT responses or AIOs, since AI-driven results drive higher conversions.

Users migrate from ChatGPT to Gemini as Google's ecosystem tightens the loop

October 28, 2025, 9:44 AM EDT. Google's Gemini is closing the gap with ChatGPT in web traffic, rising to 12.9% of generative AI tool visits from 6.4%. ChatGPT remains dominant at about 74%, but its share has drifted down as competitors sharpen their pitches. The shift is strongest among users who live in Google's ecosystem: Gemini is threaded through Gmail, Docs, Drive, Calendar and Meet, enabling context from a Drive folder to draft a Gmail reply or plan a project in Docs with a single flow. Users praise Gemini for speed on quick-turn tasks–email drafting, paraphrasing, parsing spreadsheets, or extracting calendar dates. The value lies in micro-wins and frictionless workflows, rather than deep ideation.

OpenAI U-turn on ChatGPT erotic-content policy sparks scrutiny over safety and trust

October 28, 2025, 9:42 AM EDT. OpenAI is reversing a long-standing stance by allowing adults to engage in erotic conversations in ChatGPT, citing new safeguards around sensitive content. CEO Sam Altman says the move will enable "safe relaxations" after engineers mitigated mental-health risks, but the shift follows months of pushback from regulators and parents over dangerous or sexualized advice to minors. In a prior August interview, Altman defended avoiding a sex bot and emphasized staying aligned with users, a contrast that critics say undermines initial assurances of safety. OpenAI has since rolled out parental controls and a restricted teen version, while authorities probe safeguards. The company faces lawsuits alleging harmful guidance to teenagers, raising questions about how to balance openness, innovation, and child protection as policy evolves.

Xiaomi Android 16 Rollout Expands: Check If Your Device Qualifies

October 28, 2025, 9:40 AM EDT. Xiaomi has accelerated its Android 16 rollout across a wide range of devices from the Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco families, ahead of the upcoming HyperOS 3 launch. Eligible models include the flagship Xiaomi 15/15 Pro/15 Ultra, Xiaomi 14 series, various Redmi and Poco handsets, and several tablet lines-all compatible with future OS updates. The rollout is regional and staged, with some devices in other regions to receive updates in the coming weeks. The update emphasizes optimization and small feature enhancements rather than a radical UI change. To see if your device qualifies, check Settings > System updates or contact Xiaomi support; both 4G and 5G variants are supported where applicable.

Gemini Gains Ground on ChatGPT as Web Traffic Doubles, but Data Has Limitations

October 28, 2025, 9:36 AM EDT. New data from Similarweb show visits to gemini.google.com have doubled over the past year, with Gemini web traffic totaling about 12.9% of online generative AI tool traffic (up from 6.4%). By contrast, ChatGPT still dominates, at roughly 74% of chatbot web traffic, though its share has slipped from ~87% a year earlier. Google's Gemini benefits from being embedded in tools like AI Overviews and AI Mode, broadening reach beyond the standalone site. Analysts caution that Similarweb's measurements capture only visits to gemini.google.com, not total usage across Google's ecosystem, so a full picture requires app downloads and active users. Users praise Gemini for routine tasks and app integration, even as others excel in specialized domains.

Google Messages May Get a Trash Folder in Upcoming Update, Beta Hints Reveal

October 28, 2025, 9:32 AM EDT. Google Messages is reportedly adding a Trash folder, spotted in a beta build. The code references trashed_conversations and a trash_folder UI string, hinting at a feature that could mimic Gmail's Trash by holding deleted messages for about 30 days before permanent deletion. This would complement or replace the current immediate deletion (and the existing Archive option). At the moment, no UI surfaced, so the feature appears to be in early development. An APK teardown notes that such code-only previews don't guarantee a public release, and no timeline is known for when (or if) it'll ship.

Google Messages could restore deleted texts with a trash folder feature

October 28, 2025, 9:28 AM EDT. Google Messages may introduce a trash folder and trashed conversations, letting users recover deleted texts within a window similar to Gmail's 30 days. In the beta, strings hint at a reversible delete, replacing the current permanent delete behavior. If shipped, the feature would help recover messages accidentally deleted in a rush or during bulk deletions. Today, users can archive conversations, but a bin would add a true reclaim path with a limited retention window before permanent removal. The feature is in early development, with no timeline yet.

Xiaomi HyperOS 3 Expands to MIX Flip 2, Tablets, Wearables, and More

October 28, 2025, 9:26 AM EDT. Xiaomi has expanded HyperOS 3 beyond its initial launch to a broader lineup, including the MIX Flip 2, tablets, wearables, and TV devices. The update is rolling out in batches under the grayscale-to-full approach to ensure stability, with some models getting the official version first based on internal testing and scheduling. Users can monitor availability via Settings > About Phone > System Updates. The devices listed as receiving HyperOS 3 official versions include the MIX Flip 2, Civi 5 Pro, Redmi K80, Turbo 4 Pro/4, several Pad models (7 Ultra, 7S Pro 12.5, 7 Pro, 7, and Redmi K Pad), and multiple Xiaomi TV and Watch S4 variants. HyperConnect framework aims to unify smartphones, tablets, wearables, and TVs, focusing on performance, power saving, and interoperability within Xiaomi's "Human × Car × Home × AI" vision.

Skyworks in talks to buy Qorvo to form a $22B RF-chip giant for Apple and smartphone makers

October 28, 2025, 9:24 AM EDT. Skyworks Solutions is in talks to acquire rival Qorvo, aiming to create a roughly $22 billion combined company that supplies RF chips to Apple and other smartphone makers. The proposal values Qorvo at about $9.76 billion on a stock-and-cash basis, with shareholders receiving $32.50 in cash and 0.960 Skyworks shares per Qorvo share. The deal would expand Skyworks' footprint in wireless, analog, and mixed-signal components and could help offset near-term demand trends as Apple pursues in-house radio chips. The transaction faces antitrust scrutiny and isn't expected to close until early 2027. Skyworks would place its CEO as head of the combined company, while Qorvo's chief would join the board; Starboard Value's stake and activist pressure are noted background factors.

AI-Generated Game Concepts Trigger Massive Online Backlash in Gaming Community

October 28, 2025, 9:22 AM EDT. AI-generated game concepts triggered a massive online backlash as two demos were ratioed and flooded with negative comments. Critics across the gaming community united in their disdain, questioning the project's quality, originality, and monetization. Despite the creator framing the experiences as work-in-progress, the response highlighted concerns about AI-assisted game design. The piece notes reader reactions and points to social channels and newsletters for ongoing updates.

Melt Mouse rethinks drawing on tablets with 3-in-1 haptic precision

October 28, 2025, 9:20 AM EDT. Tokyo-based Diver-X unveils the Melt Mouse, a minimalist aluminium-and-glass gadget that rethinks the mouse for drawing tablets. Lacking traditional buttons, it uses a proprietary haptic feedback system to simulate clicks and taps across its glass surface. The device doubles as a precise mouse, a multi-touch trackpad, and a shortcut deck; a LED grid appears under the glass to map Photoshop, Premiere, or Procreate shortcuts via the Melt Studio app. With the MagSole base, users can swap between a high-friction control surface and a slick glide, offering tactile, almost analog feedback. It blends retro Apple-esque design with modern customization, promising a more tactile workflow for digital artists and tablet users.

Samsung Reintroduces 3D Capture with Camera Assistant for Galaxy XR

October 28, 2025, 9:18 AM EDT. Samsung has reintroduced the 3D capture feature in its Camera Assistant app, aligning with the launch of the new Galaxy XR mixed-reality headset. The update enhances the Galaxy camera experience by adding Auto Lens Switching and Adaptive Pixel for better low-light performance. Available on newer devices like the Galaxy S25, Galaxy Z Fold 7, and Galaxy Z Flip 7, the feature records 3D photos and 4K 30fps video to pair with XR immersive viewing. Users can download the update from the Galaxy Store; rollout may take a few days. Samsung also offers a promotional deal via affiliate links including a $50 Amazon gift card and a $25 Google Play gift card.

3 Reasons to Bet on Alphabet as an Under-the-Radar Quantum Computing Stock

October 28, 2025, 9:16 AM EDT. Alphabet (GOOG) is pitched as an under-the-radar quantum computing play with two strong advantages. 1) It's a leader in quantum computing, highlighted by Google's Willow chip, which ran a verifiable algorithm on a 105-qubit system, reportedly 13,000x faster than a classical computer. 2) It has massive cash reserves and robust free cash flow-roughly $66 billion over the last year-allowing deep investment into quantum research alongside AI data centers. This scale could enable Alphabet to outpace pure-play rivals (IonQ, Rigetti, D-Wave) in the coming years. While the article promises three reasons to own Alphabet, the data here point to leadership in the field and financial firepower as core advantages for a quantum exposure within Alphabet's broader tech ecosystem.

DJI Faces U.S. Legal Hurdles After DoD Keeps Company on Chinese Military List

October 28, 2025, 9:14 AM EDT. DJI remains under pressure as the U.S. Department of Defense maintains its inclusion of the drone maker on a list of Chinese military companies. A federal judge, Judge Paul Friedman, upheld the decision, citing evidence that DJI's technology supports China's defense industrial base, despite the company's claims that its drones are for civilian use. The ruling also references modified DJI drones used in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, bolstering the perception of military applicability and undermining DJI's policy that prohibits military use. Beyond the court decision, DJI faces reputational and financial headwinds and a potential U.S. sales ban absent a national security finding. The company says it is not owned or controlled by the Chinese military and is weighing legal options amid ongoing regulatory scrutiny.

North Dakota Legislature develops AI tool to auto-summarize bills for 2027 session

October 28, 2025, 9:04 AM EDT. North Dakota's Legislative Council is developing an AI tool to draft bill summaries for the 2027 session, aiming to save lawmakers time. The nonpartisan agency is training a model to generate summaries of passed bills, a task currently done by its legal team for about 600 bills per session, and to prepare summaries for proposed bills and amendments during session. Early estimates suggest the tool could dramatically reduce review time, as Senior Legal Division Director Emily Thompson notes the team spends easily 100 hours reviewing title summaries after each session. The project uses Meta's Llama 3.2 1b Instruct as its base and is trained on North Dakota bill summaries from 2019, 2021 and 2023 via the Unsloth program, with ongoing comparisons to human drafts to improve accuracy.

Amazon layoffs, Qualcomm's AI chips and Powell successor finalists – Morning Squawk

October 28, 2025, 9:02 AM EDT. Amazon is cutting 14,000 jobs in what could be its largest corporate layoff, impacting nearly every unit as it shifts to a leaner operation and AI-driven productivity. CEO Andy Jassy has suggested the workforce could shrink with AI. Separately, Qualcomm unveiled AI accelerators-the AI200 and AI250-slated for 2026-2027, aiming to challenge Nvidia/AMD with energy efficiency and lower operating costs; the stock jumped about 11%. In policy/markets, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says five finalists remain to succeed Fed Chair Jerome Powell, a note that adds policy-tilt context as investors eye leadership. Morning Squawk highlights these moves as markets hover near all-time highs amid intensifying AI hardware competition.

Apple's 2027 iPad Pro to feature vapor chamber cooling and M6 on 2-nm process

October 28, 2025, 8:58 AM EDT. Apple is developing a new vapor chamber cooling system for the iPad Pro, targeting a spring 2027 launch to support a forthcoming M6 chip on a 2-nanometer process. The cooling tech, already used in this year's iPhone 17 Pro, would enable longer gaming, video editing, and AI tasks without fans, widening the gap between the iPad Pro and the iPad Air. The plan fits Apple's cadence and marketing of premium power users. Bloomberg also notes an upcoming Maps ads rollout next year. The rumored foldable iPad remains on hold, with a potential launch pushed to at least 2029 due to technical and cost hurdles.

Europe to merge Airbus, Leonardo and Thales satellite units into new 'Bromo' to rival Starlink

October 28, 2025, 8:56 AM EDT. European giants Airbus, Leonardo and Thales have agreed to merge their satellite manufacturing and services units to form a new company codenamed Bromo. The deal would consolidate Airbus Defence and Space's Space Systems and Space Digital arms, Leonardo's Space Division, and Thales' stakes in Thales Alenia Space, Telespazio, and Thales SESO. The venture, potentially operational in two years subject to regulatory approvals, would employ about 25,000 people with a turnover around €6.5 billion. Ownership would be 35% for Airbus, and 32.5% for both Leonardo and Thales. The aim is to compete globally with Starlink and bolster European autonomy in space infrastructure and services. The merger requires consultation with employee representatives and awaits final regulatory clearance, with executives stressing Europe's strategic industrial and technological asset goals.

Adobe launches AI assistants for Express and Photoshop with new Moonlight project and third-party model support

October 28, 2025, 8:54 AM EDT. Adobe unveils AI assistants for its Express and Photoshop apps, introducing a dedicated assistant mode in Express that accepts text prompts for image creation while preserving traditional editing tools. The Photoshop assistant, currently in closed beta, lives in the sidebar and can auto-select objects, create masks, and automate repetitive tasks like background removal and color changes. Adobe also teased Project Moonlight to coordinate multiple tools and feed creators' styles from social channels, and potential ChatGPT integration via OpenAI's API. New Creative Cloud features include third-party models for generative fill (Gemini 2.5, FLUX.1 Kontext) and an AI object mask in Premiere Pro.

Adobe Express debuts AI Assistant to edit designs with natural-language prompts

October 28, 2025, 8:52 AM EDT. Adobe is rolling out an AI Assistant in Express, a conversational helper that can interpret vague, multi-step prompts to edit or create designs. In public beta, you toggle it in the top-left of the web app, swapping to a chatbot that surfaces presets like 'fall-themed wedding invitation' or 'retro-inspired poster' from description. The assistant can edit specific parts-backgrounds, fonts, or layers-while leaving the rest intact, sourcing assets from Adobe's Font and stock libraries or generating new images with Firefly. You can craft an entire design with the AI or switch back to manual editing. It supports resizing, reformatting, and animations, and Adobe plans broader AI integrations across Acrobat, Photoshop, and even third-party apps like ChatGPT for seamless cross-app work.

PayPal to Embed Digital Wallet in ChatGPT, Expanding AI-Powered Commerce

October 28, 2025, 8:48 AM EDT. PayPal is partnering with OpenAI to embed its digital wallet inside ChatGPT, letting users complete purchases directly from the chat interface. Shoppers will see a button labeled buy with PayPal and can pay from linked bank accounts, cards, or PayPal balances, with purchase protections and tracking. Merchants using PayPal will have their products listed within ChatGPT, and PayPal will handle the payments behind the scenes, simplifying checkout for buyers. The move signals a broader push into AI-powered commerce and expands OpenAI's enterprise tools for employers. Financially, PayPal raised its full-year earnings guidance to $5.35-$5.39 per share and introduced a quarterly dividend of 14 cents. Third-quarter revenue rose 7% to $8.4B, with total payment volume of $458.1B, up 8% year over year.

DJI's Romo robot vacuums bring drone-grade navigation to home floors – Europe-only rollout

October 28, 2025, 8:46 AM EDT. DJI is rolling out its Romo line of robot vacuums outside China for Europe (Germany, France, Spain, Italy) but skipping the US this round. The three-model family – Romo P, A, and S – ranges from €1,299 to €1,899. They pack drone-inspired navigation: millimeter-level obstacle sensing with dual fisheye cameras and solid-state LiDAR, real-time recognition of cords, table legs, and pets, plus AI path planning that mirrors DJI's mapping tech. The Romo app lets you set cleaning zones, no-go areas, and view live maps. The base station washes mop pads and flushes debris, keeping the system running for up to 200 days. A notable pivot for DJI: ground robots that leverage drone DNA, even as US shoppers wait.

Tuesday's biggest analyst calls: Apple, Amazon, Reddit, Nokia, Domino's, NextEra and more

October 28, 2025, 8:44 AM EDT. Tuesday's batch of analyst calls spans tech, energy and consumer names. Wells Fargo initiates Vistra Energy at Overweight, citing position within the IPP/utility space. Deutsche Bank reiterates Reddit as Buy, highlighting a refocused growth strategy and partnerships with publishers. Mizuho initiates Domino's Pizza at Outperform, noting Q4 visibility and SSS momentum. Goldman Sachs starts Q.WI (Qnity) as Buy. Wells Fargo adds NextEra Energy as Overweight, saying the diversified mix supports premium earnings. UBS upgrades Upwork to Buy; Jefferies lifts Nokia to Buy. Baird reiterates Apple as Outperform; UBS repeats Amazon as Buy; Citi initiates Gold Fields as Buy.

TD Cowen: Apple iPhone Air Production Unchanged for 2025

October 28, 2025, 8:42 AM EDT. A new note from TD Cowen to investors on October 26 says Apple isn't reducing iPhone Air production for 2025. The forecast remains 3 million units in Q3 2025 and 7 million in Q4 2025, while the overall iPhone 17 lineup is projected at 54 million for Q3 and 79 million for Q4. This counters earlier claims that the Air could be entering end-of-production or a cutback phase. The report highlights that even if Air production shifts, demand could still favor Pro models at launch, with Apple adjusting outputs accordingly. The situation reflects ongoing market demand and internal planning rather than an outright cancellation.

6 Health and Fitness Features on the Apple Watch You Might Be Missing to Stay Fit Every Day

October 28, 2025, 8:40 AM EDT. Apple Watch users can unlock a suite of built-in health tools that go beyond steps. The Health app stores critical data in your Medical ID, while watchOS updates add power-user features like Live Activity for cyclists, mood tracking, and outdoor light exposure monitoring. With watchOS 26, hypertension alerts and a redesigned Workout app help you manage wellness data more easily. Get started by updating your device, then explore: 1) Access Your Health Profile via Medical ID for emergencies; 2) Record and customize workouts, including guided sessions from Fitness+; 3) Use Compass Waypoints for safer hikes with offline maps; 4) Track cycling in real time with Live Activity; and more proactive health insights across heart rate, ECG, and activity goals.

ChatGPT Global Share Falls to 74% as Gemini and Perplexity Gain Ground; AI Brain Rot Risks Highlight Data Quality

October 28, 2025, 8:38 AM EDT. New data from Similarweb's Global AI Tracker shows ChatGPT's global traffic share slipping to 74.1%, down from 87.1% a year earlier and 76.4% last month, as rivals such as Google's Gemini (up to 12.9%) and Perplexity AI (now 2.4%) gain ground. Other players-Claude and Grok-hover around 2.0%, while Copilot remains at 1.2%, and DeepSeek sits at 3.7%. The report attributes Gemini's momentum to integrations with Google Search and Android. In parallel, researchers warn of potential brain rot in LLMs exposed to low-quality data, underscoring the long-term importance of data quality for training and model reliability. Altogether, the findings reflect intensifying competition and the rising focus on data integrity in the AI tools market.

Louisiana boy burns from tablet charger sparks safety warnings about charging in bed

October 28, 2025, 8:36 AM EDT. A Louisiana family warns about the dangers of charging devices in bed after a tablet charger sparked and burned a 9-year-old boy. Ashtyn's necklace got tangled with the charger, causing a loud bang, burns on his neck and hand, and hospitalization. Experts from the NFPA caution against charging under a pillow or on a bed and urge only using the cord designed for your device. The mother's interview highlights the reality of these incidents and stresses safety for families to prevent burns and other injuries from tablets and chargers.

Price Drop Alert: Save Up to 60% on Samsung Galaxy Smartwatches

October 28, 2025, 8:32 AM EDT. Don't miss the massive price drop on Samsung Galaxy smartwatches. This deal makes the feature-packed lineup more affordable, from the Galaxy Watch6 Classic with LTE, BP and ECG tracking, to the rugged Galaxy Watch Ultra with a 3nm processor, sapphire glass, and long battery life. The Watch8 Classic offers AI-powered fitness insights, a bright Super AMOLED display, and durable build. Expect GPS, fast charging, and seamless Galaxy ecosystem integration that keeps you connected. With IP68 water resistance and wellness features like advanced sleep coaching, these watches blend style and function for everyday wear. Act quickly-these discounts won't last and stocks may run out.

Amazon to cut 14,000 jobs as it leans into AI to boost efficiency

October 28, 2025, 8:30 AM EDT. Amazon confirms it will cut about 14,000 corporate jobs as it shifts toward AI-powered tools to lower its wage bill and boost efficiency. CEO Andy Jassy has highlighted that AI investments will help the company run more like a startup, continuing a broader push to automate operations. Senior VP Beth Galetti told workers that the move aims to keep the company competitive in a rapidly changing landscape. The company describes this generation of AI as the most transformative since the Internet, enabling faster innovation in existing markets and new business lines. This is breaking news and will be updated.

Adobe unveils Project Moonlight: an AI social media conductor uniting Creative Cloud apps

October 28, 2025, 8:28 AM EDT. Adobe is integrating an AI assistant into its Firefly platform called Project Moonlight, a centralized creative director for social campaigns. The bot ingests your social channels and Creative Cloud library to brainstorm and edit content in your voice, coordinating across apps like Photoshop, Premiere, and Lightroom. Features include context-aware creative intelligence, conversational creation, and data-driven growth strategies. Users describe ideas, and Moonlight orchestrates images, videos, and posts that align with your style. It connects to social accounts to analyze performance, surface trends, and craft content plans. A private beta will launch for waitlisted users in coming months.

Adobe Launches YouTube Shorts Partnership and New AI Tools Suite for Creators

October 28, 2025, 8:26 AM EDT. Adobe unveiled a wave of AI tools and a YouTube Shorts partnership at MAX 2025. The flagship is Firefly, with Prompt to Edit and Firefly Boards (2D to 3D ideation), plus beta tools like Generate Soundtrack and Generate Speech. A Firefly video editor enters private beta for a web-based multitrack workflow. In Creative Cloud, Photoshop gains Generative Fill; the suite adds Gemini 2.5 and FLUX.1 Kontext for content prompts. Public beta tools include Premiere Pro AI Object Mask and Lightroom Assisted Culling. Adobe also announced a Create for YouTube Shorts integration letting editors publish from Premiere to Shorts and publish templates. An AI Assistant is coming to Adobe Express and Photoshop, and Project Moonlight coordinates AI across apps.

Google's Ruth Porat: Unlock AI upside by rethinking every process

October 28, 2025, 8:24 AM EDT. Ruth Porat, Alphabet and Google's president and chief investment officer, argues we are at two speeds: rapid breakthroughs and slower AI adoption. To unlock AI's upside, she says it requires a fundamental rethink of every process across governments and businesses, not just experimenting with chatbots. The guidance comes as Porat engages with policymakers and regulators on how AI reshapes the economy and the U.S. position globally. At the Fortune Global Forum, she joined other leaders who emphasize end-to-end AI-driven improvements, greater trust in partnerships, and the need for substantial investment in skills and infrastructure. The human element remains essential, and responsible AI is key to ensuring the benefits are widespread, from productivity gains to new kinds of work.

Censys Launches Internet Intelligence to Accelerate SOC Triage and Incident Response

October 28, 2025, 8:22 AM EDT. Censys launches a new Internet Intelligence offering designed to help Security Operations Center (SOC) teams accelerate alert triage, reduce mean time to triage (MTTT), and speed up incident response. The service provides near real-time and historical visibility into all Internet-facing assets, enabling analysts to enrich context, validate threat intelligence, and access Censys-curated adversary infrastructure. By delivering comprehensive Internet visibility across 65,535 ports and 200+ protocols, plus WHOIS, ASN, TLS metadata, and service labels, the platform strengthens triage prioritization and investigation workflows. It also augments stale feeds with validated adversary data (C2, RATs, phishing kits, botnets) and offers historical snapshots to trace attacker activity. In short, it enhances SOC efficiency and IR outcomes through internet intelligence and adversary data.

Should I Give My Kid a Smartphone? 7 Parents Share How They Decided

October 28, 2025, 8:20 AM EDT. Parents grapple with when to give their kids a smartphone. Seven families with children aged 7-14 share how they balance independence and safety, school policies, and data/privacy concerns. Strategies include using Apple Watches and iPads with careful limits, setting screen-time rules, enabling parental controls, and creating check-ins so kids can show they've arrived or are on their way. The stories reveal trade-offs between staying connected and avoiding online risks, the importance of ongoing conversations about privacy and mental health, and what they wish they'd done differently. The takeaway: start early with clear expectations, tailor devices to age, and adjust rules as kids grow, all while prioritizing communication and a sense of trust over total control.

Standard Economics raises $9M seed to bring cross-border payments to the unbanked with the Uno app

October 28, 2025, 8:18 AM EDT. Standard Economics, a startup building a global platform for cross-border payments and access to stablecoins, has raised $9 million in seed funding led by Paradigm, with participation from Lightspeed and other investors. The team aims to launch Uno, an iOS/Android app, starting in Mexico and expanding to Argentina and the Philippines, to provide free remittances and banking tools for the unbanked. Co-founders include Evan Jones (ex-X, xAI), Payam Abedi (CTO, ex-X), and Tyler Carnevale (COO, ex-SpaceX/X). The startup seeks to simplify money movement globally and use stablecoins to give users access to US dollars. They note competition from existing local apps, but plan a universal, multi-country experience with an approach likened to bringing Starlink for money.

DJI's Romo Robot Vacuum Lands with Premium Pricing and AI Smarts

October 28, 2025, 8:16 AM EDT. DJI enters the robot-vacuum space with the Romo lineup-S, A, and P-priced from €1,299 to €1,899. The premium trio ships a self-emptying base, mopping and deodorising, and millimeter-level obstacle sensing powered by AI. Using solid-state LiDAR and dual fisheye vision sensors, the Romo aims to map and navigate homes while avoiding cables and even playing cards. The Romo P adds a fully-transparent body and an extra deodoriser compartment; all models share 25,000 Pa suction, a 164 ml water tank, a self-cleaning station, and 55 W charging for a 2.5-hour return to duty. DJI hasn't confirmed global rollout beyond Europe, leaving South Africa and other regions in limbo.

Amazon plans to cut around 14,000 corporate jobs, blaming AI

October 28, 2025, 8:02 AM EDT. Amazon plans to trim roughly 14,000 corporate roles as part of a broader efficiency push. The company says the move is aimed at reducing bureaucracy and reallocating resources to its biggest bets, while hinting more cuts could come as it leans into automation, robotics, and AI. Senior executive Beth Galetti told employees that most staff will have 90 days to seek internal opportunities, with the note emphasizing that this generation of AI is transforming business. CEO Andy Jassy also positioned generative AI as both a driver of efficiency and a strategic direction for products and services. The layoff batch is smaller than earlier rumors of 30,000 jobs.

iOS 26 Fitness Update Lets You Create Custom Apple Watch Workouts on iPhone

October 28, 2025, 7:46 AM EDT. With iOS 26, the Fitness app gains a new Workouts feature that lets iPhone users design custom training sessions-without tapping the watch. The new Workout menu (including a Custom filter) supports naming workouts, defining run/walk intervals, warm-up and cooldowns, and even adding music and targets. You access it in Fitness by tapping Workouts, selecting an activity, tapping the timer icon, and choosing Custom; you can create a brand-new routine with the plus sign. The post also mentions sharing workouts with friends and family. For Apple Watch users, this makes cross-device customization easier, while AirPods Pro 3 can support heart rate sensors during workouts. Overall, a welcome improvement to the Fitness app workflow on iPhone with iOS 26.

Google Pixel Watch (2022) ends guaranteed support with final update

October 28, 2025, 7:44 AM EDT. Google's first Pixel Watch (2022) receives its final software update, BW1A.251005.003.W1, keeping it on Wear OS 5.1 (Android 15) with only security updates and bug fixes. The update marks the end of guaranteed system and security support, though Play Store app updates will continue for a while. The original Pixel Watch won't receive Wear OS 6 or Android 16 upgrades, a privilege reserved for newer models. Three years of updates have delivered two major version jumps-Wear OS 4 and 5.1-alongside performance and battery tweaks. Google notes this is the farewell patch, but users will still get app and service updates through the Play Store to keep essential functions usable longer. For now, install the patch when it hits your device.

IonQ vs Nvidia: Is Quantum Computing the Next Big AI Stock?

October 28, 2025, 7:40 AM EDT. IonQ's CEO argues that quantum processing units could eventually replace GPUs in accelerated computing, signaling a potential long-term disruption to the AI stack. But Nvidia remains the AI market leader, with a data-center capex path heading toward trillions in spending by 2030 and a dominant GPU moat. The piece weighs whether IonQ can catch up before 2030-2035, noting most quantum firms expect meaningful sales later in the decade, and competitors like Rigetti see a TAM in the tens of billions by 2035. Until quantum tech matures, Nvidia's scale and AI infrastructure pullback risk keep it central near-term, while IonQ remains a high-growth, high-uncertainty play.

Federating Europe's Earth Observation Ground Segment: DOMINO-E Demonstrates Federated Mission Planning and Data Delivery

October 28, 2025, 7:38 AM EDT. Europe's EO ground segment is evolving through the DOMINO-E PoC, which federates mission planning, communication management, and user interfaces into a single, resilient ecosystem. The Coverage Service, developed by Onera, Capgemini, and Airbus, coordinates multi-mission planning in a Kubernetes cloud, delivering optimized coverage with efficiencies over 95% and reduced planning latency (~40%) compared with isolated setups. The SCRMS, by ITTI and Airbus, acts as the intelligent intermediary between satellites and ground stations, dynamically allocating contacts, balancing demand and cost, and showing resilience against disruptive conditions. The federation demonstrates how shared interfaces and centralized orchestration can prevent missed observation windows, lower operational risk, and streamline EO services, paving the way for a more scalable, interoperable European EO infrastructure.

AI-generated hurricane videos surge on TikTok as Hurricane Melissa nears Jamaica

October 28, 2025, 7:36 AM EDT. BBC Verify reports that dozens of AI-generated hurricane videos are circulating on TikTok as Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica. The clips have racked up millions of views, with searches returning a mix of AI footage and older storm clips. Some carry explicit AI watermarks from generators like OpenAI's Sora, while others blur or remove marks to mislead. Examples include a clip of sharks in flooded streets and a view of the storm's eye from a plane-often accompanied by misleading captions. One clip appears similar to footage from the U.S. Air Force Reserve's "Hurricane Hunters" and has been debunked. Others show a group fleeing a wave, with a small VEO watermark indicating Google's text-to-video tool. TikTok has removed over two dozen AI hurricane videos, but fake clips persist. BBC Verify has sought comment from TikTok.

Skyroot Aerospace targets India's first private commercial rocket launch

October 28, 2025, 7:34 AM EDT. Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace, backed by Temasek and GIC, is aiming for India's first private commercial rocket launch by January, three years after space sector liberalization. The company plans one launch every three months next year and one per month from 2027, with an expected revenue around $5 million per mission against about $2-3 million rocket costs and an 8-9 month build time. CEO Pawan Chandana says early launches will include paying satellite customers, enabling domestic satellite deployment for government bodies and commercial clients, at lower costs and without long global wait times. SpaceX remains a benchmark but has long waitlists; SSLV targets a different client base. Skyroot has raised about $95.5 million since 2018, underscoring India's push to privatize its space sector and expand private launch access.

iPhone 17 series: Siri 2.0 targets a 2026 rollout with three core capabilities

October 28, 2025, 7:32 AM EDT. Apple's iPhone 17 series is expected to finally bring a rebuilt Siri 2.0 in early 2026 with iOS 26.4, after delays with the iPhone 16 lineup. The AI-powered assistant is reportedly rebuilt from the ground up, focusing on three core capabilities: cross-app actions that let Siri perform tasks across apps; on-screen actions and real-time context using Visual Intelligence to interpret the current screen; and enhanced natural language understanding and multi-step reasoning to handle complex prompts. If delivered smoothly, Siri 2.0 could Rival rivals like Google's Gemini on Pixel and Samsung devices, offering a more seamless, voice-first experience. Apple has not yet confirmed timing, but rollout is anticipated in mid-2026 alongside iOS 26.4.

Gen Z Uses AI to Skip Meetings, Get Promoted, and Earn More-Yet Worries About Job Security

October 28, 2025, 7:28 AM EDT. Gen Z is quietly reshaping work culture by leaning on AI for meeting notes, with three in ten skipping meetings and 19% using AI to generate notes. Those who rely on AI are about 28% more likely to be promoted and earn roughly $20,000 more annually, but 41% say they miss important context. Hybrid workers lead AI use (26%), and technology sectors are most active (32%). On the business side, AI note-taking can free time and boost participation, yet concerns about security persist: 52% of Gen Z fear replacement by those with stronger AI skills, and 24% of 18-34s rate their job-loss worry high. Leaders also flag Gen Z as highly vulnerable to AI-driven displacement, underscoring a paradox: faster career gains vs. long-term value and security.

Ex-Intel CEO Patrick Gelsinger launches Christian AI with $110M; hasten the return of Christ

October 28, 2025, 7:26 AM EDT. Patrick Gelsinger, after leaving Intel and facing a shareholder suit, now leads Gloo, a 'faith ecosystem' tech company that builds AI tools for churches and ministry teams. The venture aims to embed Christian values in software, supported by a $110m fundraising war chest and plans to extend influence in Silicon Valley, Congress, and beyond. Gelsinger says his life mission is to use technology to improve the quality of life for all and hasten Christ's return. Gloo claims over 140,000 faith, ministry, and nonprofit leaders as users, while the broader AI world boasts hundreds of millions of weekly users. The story highlights a rising faith-tech culture in Silicon Valley and the policy implications of aligning AI with religious beliefs, governance, and innovation.

Google Pixel Watch 3 drops to $199.99 on Amazon

October 28, 2025, 7:24 AM EDT. Want a solid smartwatch deal? The Google Pixel Watch 3 is down to $199.99 on Amazon (was $299.99). This four-star wearable offers strong health and fitness features, a sleek build, and strong Wear OS optimization. Our reviewer, Jacob Krul, says it's one of the best-looking smartwatches around. The $100 discount marks a new all-time low, and with Black Friday uncertainty, now is a great time to buy. In our in-depth review, it's described as well-rounded and competitive with other smartwatches. If you own a Pixel phone, you'll get the best experience, though it works with most Android devices. For Apple users, check out other Apple Watch deals; runners may prefer Garmin.

Foxconn to Invest NT$42 Billion in AI Computing Equipment to Expand Cloud and Smart Platforms

October 28, 2025, 7:18 AM EDT. Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. (Foxconn) has won board approval for a self-financed NT$42 billion investment to purchase AI computing equipment for a new supercomputing center, expanding its cloud computing capabilities and accelerating its three platforms: smart manufacturing, smart electric vehicles, and smart cities. The rollout will span about a year, starting in December. Chairman Young Liu said AI applications are just beginning and will reach many industries. Hon Hai has been building AI infrastructure, including a traditional Chinese LLM for its platforms, and in May partnered with Nvidia to create an AI factory center in Taiwan. It also plans to deploy Nvidia's 800 VDC data center architecture at its K-1 AI data center in Kaohsiung as a model site.

Elon Musk launches Grokipedia, an AI-powered Wikipedia rival, amid rocky rollout

October 28, 2025, 7:12 AM EDT. Elon Musk unveiled Grokipedia, an AI-powered encyclopedia tied to xAI's Grok, pitched as a less biased alternative to Wikipedia. The early version, labeled 0.1, briefly crashed before returning online, with a promise that version 1.0 will be 10X better. Grokipedia reportedly logs hundreds of thousands of articles, but appears to be AI-generated rather than community-edited. Musk framed the project as part of his broader anti-woke AI push, following a suggestion from David Sacks. Critics note that Grokipedia often cites Wikipedia as a source, while the Wikimedia Foundation says it's still learning how the system works. The rollout highlights Musk's effort to embed Grok across X and related services, even as questions about bias, accuracy, and sustainability linger.

Amazon cuts 14,000 corporate jobs as AI push accelerates; total may reach 30,000

October 28, 2025, 7:10 AM EDT. Amazon said it will cut about 14,000 corporate roles this year to accelerate adoption of AI and position for faster innovation. The cuts could total up to around 30,000, according to Reuters. CEO Andy Jassy and SVP of People Beth Galetti say a leaner, fewer-layered structure with more ownership will help the company move faster as generative AI advances. Most affected employees get 90 days to find internal roles; others receive severance. With more than 350,000 corporate staff, the action represents roughly 5% of the workforce. Amazon will hire in key strategic areas while trimming roles elsewhere, signaling a broader tech policy to operate like the world's biggest startup amid rapid AI change.

PayPal to Embed Wallet in ChatGPT, Enabling In-Chat Purchases

October 28, 2025, 7:08 AM EDT. PayPal and OpenAI have sealed a deal to embed PayPal's digital wallet into ChatGPT, enabling users to complete purchases directly within the AI tool starting next year. The integration lets both PayPal buyers and merchants list inventory, with merchant routing and payment validation handled behind the scenes. PayPal says users will gain protections such as package tracking and dispute resolution, and can pay using linked banks, cards, or stored balances via the Buy with PayPal button on ChatGPT. The move positions PayPal as the payments backbone for the coming era of agentic AI shopping, expanding its reach across OpenAI's vast user base. PayPal also plans to broaden OpenAI enterprise AI usage for its own employees.

Amazon to lay off about 14,000 corporate workers as it doubles down on AI investments

October 28, 2025, 7:06 AM EDT. Amazon has announced laying off about 14,000 corporate employees as it shifts toward leaner operations while ramping up investments in generative AI and other AI initiatives. The company says the cuts aim to reduce bureaucracy and speed decision-making, part of a broader effort that CNBC and Reuters described as potentially the largest corporate layoff in its history. With roughly 350,000 corporate and tech staff, the 14,000 reductions represent about 4%. Amazon says more layoffs are possible next year even as it continues to hire in key strategic areas. CEO Andy Jassy has said the company will need fewer people in some roles and more in others as it treats the business like a startup and commits about $100B to AI development this year.

Judge Reverses Class Action Status in Apple App Store Monopoly Case

October 28, 2025, 7:02 AM EDT. In Oakland, U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers decertified a sweeping class action accusing Apple of monopolizing the iPhone app market through the App Store, reversing her February 2024 ruling that certified tens of millions of users. The court said plaintiffs failed to prove classwide injury and damages in one stroke, noting insufficient linkage between Apple accounts and individual consumers and errors that could exclude harmed users. Apple presented an expert report describing data flaws, including a duplicate entry where named Pepper and Rob Pepper appeared as separate people and the grouping of more than 40,000 payments under the first name Kim. Plaintiffs' counsel said they are evaluating options; Apple contends the App Store remains a safe, trusted platform. The suit, filed in 2011, had previously been pegged for potential billions in damages. Source: Reuters.

An AI Adoption Riddle: Why Aren't Firms Pulling Back Amid Mixed Signals

October 28, 2025, 6:50 AM EDT. An anecdote about chasing AI spending amid headlines of a bubble and underwhelming progress. Despite fears after GPT-5's release, a report claiming 95% of generative-AI pilots fail, and market jitters, no firms publicly admit dialing back. The piece weighs interpretations: a genuine bubble, or the idea that few industries are truly sensitive yet, or that AI's rapid advance masks longer horizons. Martha Gimbel of the Yale Budget Lab argues AI effects may unfold slowly, not instantly changing jobs. Executives say pilots fail for strategic reasons-data quality, timing, and scope-not the tech itself. Some firms have paused but not pivoted, suggesting the industry remains cautiously optimistic even as headlines warn of risk.

Nothing, Mumsnet and SafetyMode launch safety-first 'Other Phone' for kids

October 28, 2025, 6:46 AM EDT. Mumsnet, the UK's largest online community of parents, has launched a safety-first smartphone for children called Other Phone, in partnership with Nothing and SafetyMode. Installed on Nothing hardware and powered by SafetyMode software, the device offers remote management, letting parents control apps, content, location and screen time from anywhere. SafetyMode filters bullying, explicit content and nudges parents about risky messages across major apps including WhatsApp and social platforms. The minimalist, list-style home screen aims to reduce addictive use. As children grow, parents can gradually unlock features instead of buying a new device. Mumsnet notes high parental concern about screen time and mental health, underscoring the product's practical safety focus.

Nvidia DGX Spark Falls Short: Carmack & Hannun Report 100W Draw, 60 TFLOPS

October 28, 2025, 6:44 AM EDT. Tech veterans John Carmack and Awni Hannun report Nvidia's DGX Spark is not meeting its claimed performance. Carmack says the unit stalls at about 100W-well below its 240W rating-delivering roughly 60 TFLOPS of BF16, far under expectations. Reports of heat and a potential spontaneous reboot worry users about reliability. Apple AI researcher Hannun echoes the concern, noting benchmark results fall short of Nvidia's sparse FP4 claims. Nvidia touts up to 1 PF Sparse FP4 and up to 2x gains from sparsity, but dense workloads reportedly halve performance and offset the sparsity advantage. Critics question whether Nvidia's sparsity-based specs are misleading, highlighting a gap between marketing and real-world use. The discussion continues on OC3D Forums as developers weigh premium expectations against observed power, heat, and stability.

Google Pixel Feature Drop may bring theme packs, GIFs and VIP notifications

October 28, 2025, 6:42 AM EDT. The next Pixel Feature Drop could land on November 4 and introduce theme packs that apply wallpapers, icons, GIFs, and sounds with a single tap. Leaks from Mystic Leaks (via 9to5Google) show theme packs, custom animations, and prioritized notifications. New GIFs/animated stickers from images or Pixel Studio are also teased, along with upgrades to the Pixel VIPs feature that highlight messages from designated contacts in yellow, with status bar photos (for WhatsApp and Google Messages). If true, this would offer a substantial customization and communication boost ahead of Android 16 QPR2. As always, treat leaks with caution until Google confirms details.

AI Boom Catapults Markets, Raising Fears of a Bubble

October 28, 2025, 6:34 AM EDT. As the AI boom reshapes markets, funding floods into AI chips, software and startups, driving spectacular valuations and spiking volatility. The surge mirrors past tech rallies but also stokes fear of a bubble as investors chase hype, not profit. Analysts note demand for compute, datasets and tools is real, yet discuss risks from over-investment, funding cycles, and regulatory scrutiny. The article weighs signals from earnings, deployment milestones, and capital allocation, urging readers to separate hype from adoption. AI boom markets bubble valuations startups chips regulation profitability

AI Algorithms on Streaming Platforms Limit Access, Says Media Exec

October 28, 2025, 6:32 AM EDT. Jyoti Deshpande, a film producer and Reliance Industries executive, argues that AI-powered algorithms on streaming platforms aren't just shaping recommendations-they can restrict access. She warns of algorithm blind spots that hide international or niche titles from certain audiences, potentially hobbling studios trying to reach diverse markets. Deshpande points to Laapataa Ladies, nominated for the Oscars, which wasn't readily accessible in the United Kingdom despite heavy promotion. While platforms implement local-for-local strategies, she says discovery remains uneven across geographies. The debate raises questions about distribution and transparency, urging major players like Netflix, Amazon, and Apple to make content more discoverable to a truly global audience rather than prioritizing domestic reach at the expense of international titles.

Pixel Watch Final Update Ends Official 3-Year Support

October 28, 2025, 6:26 AM EDT. Google released the final software update for the original Pixel Watch in October 2025, concluding its promised three years of updates since the 2022 launch. The update delivers minor security patches and bug fixes, but does not upgrade to Wear OS 6. The original Pixel Watch debuted as Google's entry into the smartwatch market, and Google committed to operating system upgrades, security enhancements, and feature additions for three years. The October 2025 release, BW1A.251005.003.W1, marks the end of official support for the first generation, with Google unlikely to issue major updates beyond occasional patches. In contrast, the Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Watch 3 receive Wear OS 6 along with new features like auto-launch for Google Maps and enhanced safety options.

Fortune Tech: Qualcomm's AI chips spark rally as Amazon cuts jobs and poker-tech intrigue unfolds

October 28, 2025, 6:24 AM EDT. Fortune Tech highlights: The DOJ charged 31 people in a poker-rigging case featuring high-tech gear-card shufflers that read decks, special contact lenses to see backs of cards, chip-tray analyzers, and even an x-ray table. Separately, Amazon plans to cut about 30,000 jobs as AI-driven automation reshapes staffing and cloud strategy. In chips, Qualcomm shares jumped ~15% after unveiling AI200 and AI250 aimed at data centers and generative AI inference, putting it in the AI chip race with Nvidia and AMD. The broader theme: AI-led growth and cost discipline reshaping tech business and markets.

Amazon to reduce ~14,000 roles, prioritizes internal mobility and transition support

October 28, 2025, 6:18 AM EDT. Amazon announces an overall workforce reduction of approximately 14,000 roles, with selective hiring in other areas to balance the impact. The company will give most employees up to 90 days to pursue internal opportunities, and recruiting teams will prioritize internal candidates to help as many people as possible stay with Amazon. For those who cannot or will not seek internal roles, Amazon will provide transition support including severance pay, outplacement services, health insurance benefits, and more, aiming to support affected teammates as the business stays nimble and continues to strengthen.

Tesla's Board Reverses Course, Backs Musk's $1 Trillion Pay Package

October 28, 2025, 6:16 AM EDT. Tesla's board has shifted its stance, moving from caution to active advocacy for Elon Musk's proposed $1 trillion compensation plan. Facing investor questions and governance scrutiny, directors are reframing the package as a performance-driven incentive aligned with long-term value creation. The structure reportedly ties milestones to market capitalization, revenue growth, and operational milestones, with a heavy emphasis on long vesting alongside sustained leadership impact. Critics argue the plan risks outsized payouts relative to returns, while supporters say Musk's vision and execution warrant bold incentives. By taking a public position, the board aims to restore confidence, clarify accountability, and signal confidence in execution timelines. The move underscores ongoing debates over executive pay, governance, and the alignment of pay with shareholder interests.

Most space launches are controlled by three countries as global spaceport bottleneck grows

October 28, 2025, 6:10 AM EDT. Global space launches are increasingly concentrated among a few nations. As of 2023, more than 85 countries have space programs, but only about a dozen run active spaceports, leaving many nations dependent on the U.S., China, Russia, and France to carry out launches. Oman-based startup Etlaq is building three launch complexes near the Arabian Sea to become a hub for smaller countries and private companies for orbital and suborbital missions. Located at ~18°N, Oman sits closer to the equator than most major ports, offering a natural boost for liftoffs. With 2023 seeing roughly 2,895 objects launched, demand is rising, though the bottleneck remains the scarcity of commercial spaceports. Etlaq's roadmap emphasizes upskilling and gradual capability expansion.

How NDAs Let Big Tech Hide AI Data Center Details from Americans

October 28, 2025, 6:02 AM EDT. NDAs shield data-center plans from public scrutiny, keeping details from elected officials and residents. In Saint Charles, backers of Project Cumulus used NDAs and a shell company, prompting a yearlong ban on data-center construction. In Arizona, Pima County officials were bound by an NDA over Amazon Web Services' Project Blue, delaying transparency and leaving Tucson leaders in the dark as water and power talks unfolded. A leak and a local dashboard by Sky Island AI helped quantify energy and water use, fueling public outcry. Officials argued NDAs create conflicts with constituents' interests, while the data-center sector argues secrecy protects trade secrets and competitiveness. Following pressure, NDAs were dissolved ahead of votes, highlighting tensions between privacy, transparency, and rapid tech expansion.

Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic review: premium squircle design, precise rotating bezel, and strong health features

October 28, 2025, 6:00 AM EDT. Samsung's Galaxy Watch8 Classic blends a bold cushion design with serious health tracking. After weeks of wear, the watch's 63.5-gram metal body in black stainless steel feels substantial without dominating the wrist, and the 1.3-inch AMOLED display under a sapphire crystal stays crisp. The rotating bezel delivers tactile feedback, though a plastic edge strip around the side jars some observers. It's water resistant to 5ATM, built to handle rain, sweat, and swims, and the build holds up under daily abuse. At around Rs 30,000 (vs. nearer Rs 50,000 equivalents), the premium feel is strong, but value hinges on whether you'll use the included features and health tools.

Smartphone Display Market Forecast: 5.5% CAGR Fueled by OLED, Micro-LED and Flexible Panels Through 2035

October 28, 2025, 5:56 AM EDT. Global Smartphone Display Market is projected to grow from USD 57.2 Billion in 2025 to USD 97.8 Billion by 2035, a CAGR of 5.5%. Demand is driven by immersive visuals, energy efficiency, and evolution from LCD to OLED/AMOLED, Micro-LED, and flexible panels. In 2025, Samsung Display expanded its OLED-on-silicon line for foldable and rollable devices, boosting brightness and power efficiency. The market's growth is anchored by 5G adoption, AR/VR, and AI-powered UIs. Asia Pacific accounts for roughly 45% of the market, led by manufacturing hubs in China, Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. Key players include Samsung Display, BOE, LG Display, TCL/Tianma, and others. Regional government incentives in South Korea and investments from major manufacturers further propel next-gen display innovations.

Amazon to Cut 14,000 Corporate Jobs: Cost-Cutting Push Intensifies

October 28, 2025, 5:54 AM EDT. Amazon plans to cut about 14,000 corporate jobs as part of a broader cost-cutting and restructuring push. The move underscores continued belt-tightening at the tech giant and follows previous rounds of efficiency measures aimed at boosting long-term profitability. The reductions are focused on corporate roles across divisions, with managers saying the changes will streamline operations and reduce overhead. Market watchers view the announcement as another sign of ongoing volatility in the technology sector and a push toward a leaner organizational structure in challenging macroeconomic conditions.

Caterpillar's AI Rally: Why the Stock Is Priced for Perfection Ahead of Q3

October 28, 2025, 5:30 AM EDT. Caterpillar has emerged as an AI-driven winner, delivering a stock surge that outpaced peers like Nvidia in 2025, even as near-term earnings growth slowed. Morgan Stanley warns shares are priced for perfection while investors bet the AI tilt will power future gains. The focus is shifting from traditional construction equipment to Caterpillar's Energy & Transportation (E&T) segment, which now accounts for roughly 40% of sales and contains power generation, solar, and gas infrastructure that could drive earnings for years. E&T outgrew the company's overall growth last year, suggesting the pivot could offset weakness in construction and mining. With data center demand for electricity rising, investors are watching whether the Q3 print and any momentum in E&T can sustain the stock's rally amid mixed analyst views.

10 Everyday Problems AI Solves and What It Learns From You

October 28, 2025, 5:28 AM EDT. From your inbox to your playlists and maps, AI quietly handles the mundane so life runs smoother. The piece argues that what started as automation has become subtle anticipation-machine learning models predicting what you'll need before you know it, nudging you toward a purchase or a reminder at the right moment. These personalization tricks turn routine tasks into micro-interventions that save time but also shape behavior, raising questions about privacy and consent. The story lists ten everyday problems AI is already solving and ten subtle ways it might be learning from you-through autofill, route suggestions, coffee habits, and more. It highlights a future where AI is less about takeover and more about curating your to-do list, sometimes with unintended consequences for attention and choice.

Cathie Wood Warns of Market Shudder as Rates Rise and AI Valuations Face Reality Check

October 28, 2025, 5:12 AM EDT. ARK Invest CEO Cathie Wood told CNBC that rising interest rates could trigger a market shudder, signaling a shift from easy-money conditions to tighter financing. While acknowledging the risk of inflated AI valuations, she said she does not believe AI is in a bubble. Wood argued that innovation and rate dynamics do not invert historically, and that a reality check is likely as enterprises prepare to transform with embodied AI – even as big tech stock valuations may justify their upside in the long run. Her remarks came on the sidelines of Saudi Arabia's Future Investment Initiative, amid broader warnings from IMF and others about potential corrections if AI spending cools.

DJI's Romo robot vacuum launches in Europe with AI-powered navigation, but not yet a Roborock rival

October 28, 2025, 5:10 AM EDT. DJI's Romo robot vacuum launches in Europe, using AI-powered navigation but not yet a Roborock-level rival. The three models-S, A, and P-range from €1,299 to €1,899 and include a self-emptying base, obstacle detection, mopping, and deodorizing. Built on drone-grade sensors, Romo uses dual fisheye vision sensors, solid-state LiDAR, and edge-aware depth algorithms to learn a home's layout and predict collisions. It even adapts brush rotation for debris and employs AI-driven edge geometry with flexible arms. Remote video feeds support pet checks via encrypted transmission and two-factor authentication. Still, a high price and limited smart-home integration may restrain broad adoption in Europe and beyond.

Walmart Galaxy Watch FE Drops to $99 in 50% Off Bluetooth-Only Deal

October 28, 2025, 5:08 AM EDT. Walmart is still offering the Galaxy Watch FE for just $99, a 50% off on the Bluetooth-only model. Once $199, this budget-friendly Samsung wearable delivers essential features like ECG monitoring, heart rate tracking, and advanced sleep coaching powered by AI. It also shows body composition analysis, a vivid AMOLED display protected by sapphire crystal glass, and up to 40 hours of battery life. While not as powerful as the Galaxy Watch Ultra, it remains a strong value for budget-conscious shoppers seeking a solid Samsung wearable. Act fast-this promo has persisted and could sell out again at Walmart.

Amazon plans thousands of job cuts, warns managers to prepare, per internal messages

October 28, 2025, 5:04 AM EDT. Amazon plans to cut thousands of jobs and has circulated internal messages urging managers to prepare for the layoffs. The disclosure points to a broad cost-cutting push as the company reassesses staffing and operations, with notes outlining timelines, expectations, and contingency plans for reductions across divisions. Details on which teams are affected and the scale remain unclear, but the development highlights a major restructuring move amid tighter budgets across tech and retail platforms.

Venmo Partners with Bilt to Add Rent and Mortgage Payments and Neighborhood Commerce

October 28, 2025, 5:02 AM EDT. Payments app Venmo is expanding into housing payments through a new partnership with Bilt. Starting early next year, Bilt members can pay rent and mortgage and shop at local merchants via Venmo, using the Venmo balance or linked methods alongside ACH, debit, and credit. Users can complete housing payments in the Bilt app or directly in Venmo. Executives describe the move as Venmo's evolution from a peer-to-peer payments tool to an everyday commerce platform. The alliance leverages Bilt's rewards network for renters and follows recent tie-ins with UWM for mortgage lending and with GoPuff for home delivery. The goal is to give renters more payment flexibility and added monthly value while expanding Venmo's reach beyond P2P payments.

X's Grokipedia returns online after brief crash

October 28, 2025, 5:00 AM EDT. X's Grokipedia briefly went online on Monday, then crashed. It now appears to be working and claims more than 885,000 articles. Musk, who has derided Wikipedia, calls Grokipedia a step toward the xAI goal of understanding the universe. His allies have argued Wikipedia is biased; Jimmy Wales calls those claims incorrect. The launch was reportedly delayed to purge propaganda. Some articles resemble Wikipedia entries, though Grokipedia lacks in-line source links; a disclaimer notes content is adapted from Wikipedia under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0. Screenshots show entries for university and Elon Musk. X did not immediately respond to request for comment.

OpenAI Maps ChatGPT Mental Health Risks: Prevalence, Reforms, and Policy Questions

October 28, 2025, 4:58 AM EDT. OpenAI released research on the mental health implications of using ChatGPT, showing weekly prevalence rates: 0.07% with signs of psychosis or mania; 0.15% indicating heightened emotional attachment; and 0.15% expressing suicidal intent. With more than 800 million weekly users, these fractions translate into hundreds of thousands affected. The findings come as part of a broader mental health crisis in the U.S. and raise questions about whether interactions with large language models can trigger or worsen conditions. In response, OpenAI adjusted the ChatGPT model to reduce misaligned or unsafe responses by 65-80% versus August. The company now emphasizes human connection and urges users to seek real-world support, while researchers debate how to balance AI safety with accessibility.

Bitcoin Miners Pivot to Power AI: Crypto Facilities Rewired for HPC Demand

October 28, 2025, 4:56 AM EDT. Bitcoin miners are retooling data centers to provide AI computing capacity, converting cheap locations into long-term HPC powerhouses. With halving driving lower bitcoin profits, operators such as Riot, TeraWulf, Cipher Mining, CleanSpark, and IREN are signing multiyear AI workloads with cloud infra firms. The shift favors consistent computing power for AI developers facing multi-year cloud commitments from giants like Microsoft and OpenAI, creating opportunities for smaller sites to deploy quickly. Analysts note a rising AI demand alongside bitcoin volatility and crowded mining, pushing more players to pivot. Key deals include Riot's Texas campus, TeraWulf/Cipher with Fluidstack, and Galaxy Digital with CoreWeave, signaling a broader industry transition toward AI hosting.

OnePlus Turbo leak: 8000mAh battery, 165Hz OLED and Snapdragon 8 Gen 5

October 28, 2025, 4:54 AM EDT. Leaks suggest the upcoming OnePlus Turbo will pair a 6.7-inch OLED display with 1.5K resolution and 165Hz refresh rate, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. A massive 8000 mAh battery supports 100W wired charging. The back reportedly houses a 50 MP main camera and an 8 MP ultrawide. The handset is said to include an X-axis linear vibration motor, stereo speakers, NFC, and an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor. It is reportedly being tested in India and could launch there and elsewhere before year's end. Official confirmation is pending, but the specs position this as a top-tier OnePlus model in development alongside the Ace 6 and 15.

The Case Against AI Disclosure Statements in Higher Education: Rethinking Transparency and Assessment

October 28, 2025, 4:52 AM EDT. An educator who once required AI disclosure statements for assignments argues they backfire. The piece traces an early adoption of AI in college writing and a spring 2024 turning point when the author questioned disclosure. Despite promoting transparency, mandatory AI disclosure statements often turn into a performative confession that stigmatizes responsible, ethical use while letting others slip through. The author notes students still avoid disclosure even when allowed to use AI, partly due to a culture of suspicion around AI. Because disclosure encourages surveillance and guilt, the article suggests normalizing AI usage and adjusting assessment methods to account for tools rather than policing them. It calls for a pragmatic approach to responsible AI that reduces stigma and promotes creative integration in higher education.

Elon Musk's Grokipedia Debuts as AI Encyclopedia, Accused of Far-Right Bias

October 28, 2025, 4:50 AM EDT. Elon Musk's xAI launched Grokipedia, an AI-generated rival to Wikipedia. Musk called it a massive improvement and a step toward understanding the Universe, though he said it needed more work to purge propaganda. At launch, Grokipedia was briefly blocked; WIRED later found AI-written entries that largely mirror Wikipedia in tone but tilt toward conservative viewpoints. Notable entries include a slavery section outlining ideological justifications and criticisms of The 1619 Project, and a transgender entry using terms like transgenderism and describing trans women as biological males. A search for gay marriage yielded a suggested entry for gay pornography, and an entry tied pornography to HIV/AIDS transmission. The site's apparent biases prompted questions about AI governance; xAI did not immediately comment. Musk's team said more work was needed.

Samsung unveils Galaxy Z Trifold, the first triple-folding smartphone

October 28, 2025, 4:48 AM EDT. Samsung has shown its first triple-folding phone, the Galaxy Z Trifold, at the APEC CEO Summit in South Korea. Images depict both unfolded (tablet-like 10-inch inner display) and folded (6.5-inch outer display), with inward folding to protect the display. Leaks suggest three battery compartments and a 200-MP rear camera, plus a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Early chatter notes more pronounced bezels on the inner panel and a design distinct from Huawei's Mate XTs. Expected launch before year's end in select regions, including China and South Korea, with India unclear, and a target price around $3,000. Samsung's approach contrasts with folding rivals, highlighting a new era for foldables.

West Virginia Digital ID Now Available in Apple Wallet

October 28, 2025, 4:46 AM EDT. West Virginia has expanded its Mobile ID program by adding support for Apple Wallet, letting residents store a digital version of their driver's license or state ID on iPhone or Apple Watch. The rollout follows a partnership with IDEMIA Public Security North America and aligns WV with 12 other states offering mobile IDs. After installing the West Virginia Mobile ID app and approving the terms, users can scan their physical ID and facial photo, then add the digital ID to Apple Wallet or Apple Watch. The digital ID can be shown at select locations, airports (including TSA PreCheck), and for age-restricted purchases, improving convenience and security for interactions with government agencies, law enforcement, and businesses.

DJI Neo 2 drone: China launch on Oct 30, 2025; US availability still unclear

October 28, 2025, 4:34 AM EDT. DJI has teased the Neo 2 with an October 30, 2025, China launch, while a global rollout remains uncertain. The current Neo is on sale in the US with notable discounts (as low as $159). FCC listings indicate a 1606 mAh battery for the Neo 2, suggesting longer flight time. Leaks point to a 2-axis gimbal, potentially a larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, upgraded obstacle sensing, and redesigned front sensors and antennas. The drone is expected to keep the lightweight form (~135 g) with tweaks to prop-guards and antenna layout, plus improved gesture/voice controls and auto return home. However, FCC approval does not guarantee US availability, and regulatory or customs hurdles-under regimes like UFLPA-could limit a US release. Global rollout details remain unconfirmed.

SK Group chairman flags bottlenecks as AI data centres surge

October 28, 2025, 4:28 AM EDT. SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won warned that the rapid expansion of AI data centres is creating bottlenecks across the supply chain, from chips to services. He noted intense global competition, with the US and China releasing national strategies to lead in AI, and said the surge in demand is pressuring suppliers worldwide. Speaking at an APEC side-event in Gyeongju ahead of visits by Trump and Xi, Chey urged policymakers and industry to anticipate and mitigate constraints as the AI race accelerates.

UToledo Lends Experts to Great Lakes AI Week Across Northwest Ohio

October 28, 2025, 4:24 AM EDT. UToday reports that Great Lakes AI Week kicks off Nov. 4 in northwest Ohio with UToledo as a sponsor, uniting researchers, business leaders and policymakers to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming manufacturing, healthcare, logistics and financial services. The university will host the AI in Healthcare Symposium on Health Science Campus (Nov. 7) and contribute faculty to panels and workshops at Bowling Green State University (Nov. 5-6) through collaboration with the Office of Continuing Medical Education. Participants include Dean Barbara Ritter, faculty Heba Abdel-Rahim, Tyler Hancock, Susan Shultz, Paul Hong, engineers George Choueiri and Arun Nadarajah, and CIO/CTO William McCreary. Sessions feature JobsOhio-sponsored workshops, AI in sports discussions, and governance and strategy topics as the region explores AI's impact.

Galaxy Z TriFold: Samsung's First Triple-Fold Smartphone Spotted in Images

October 28, 2025, 4:22 AM EDT. Samsung appears poised to unveil its first triple-folding smartphone, the Galaxy Z TriFold, shown in a series of images. The device reportedly uses a G-shaped dual-infolding design with two hinges, letting it fold inward and unfold into a large display close to a 10-inch tablet. A prototype at the K-Tech Showcase reportedly had no visible crease. No specs were disclosed, but rumors place the price around 3 million Korean won (~$2,085), with limited market availability. The Z TriFold will contend with the Huawei Mate XTs, though Samsung may face durability and cost hurdles. An official announcement is pending, and enthusiasts can view images via tipster Ice Universe on Weibo.

First look: DJI's Romo robot vacuum blends transparency with strong suction

October 28, 2025, 4:20 AM EDT. DJI is entering the robot vacuum space with the Romo line, a trio of grounded cleaners that come in a transparent shell. The Romo P (fully transparent), Romo A (transparent bot with an opaque base), and Romo S (all white) launch in Europe with prices starting at €1,299, €1,599, and €1,899, respectively. Specs are rounded around Roborock's Curv: 25,000 Pa suction and a 164 ml onboard water tank, plus dual fish-eye vision sensors and wide-angle cameras for navigation. The base station is larger for the Romo family, and the bots are taller to house sensors. While the navigation tech is DJI-strength, the price premium feels steep for the given performance, and the see-through design may wear on living rooms after months of use. Availability is at store.dji.com in Europe.

EU car registrations rise 10% in September 2025 as BYD gains ground and Tesla loses market share

October 28, 2025, 4:08 AM EDT. EU passenger car registrations climbed 10.0% year-over-year to 888,672 units in September 2025, signaling a robust recovery for the region's automotive market. The surge appears driven by demand for newer, more affordable models, helping a market-wide rebound across traditional and electric vehicles. The EV segment continues to polarize, with Tesla continuing to shed market share while BYD makes inroads. As automakers push price-competitive derivatives and expanding charging networks support adoption, the September figure highlights shifting demand dynamics in the EU's auto sector and underscores ongoing competition among legacy brands and new entrants.

Meta Platforms Could Join the $3 Trillion Club by 2029, Rivaling Nvidia, Apple, Microsoft, and Alphabet

October 28, 2025, 4:06 AM EDT. Meta Platforms, the parent of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is positioned to join the elite $3 trillion club as AI and data drive growth. With nearly 3.5 billion daily users, Meta leverages Llama models and AI-powered advertising to monetize its vast reach. The company's second-quarter results showed revenue of $47.5 billion and EPS of $7.14, up strongly year-over-year, underscoring the impact of AI on its business. Meta's strategy combines machine learning for content relevance and targeted ads, translating into higher ad conversions and longer user engagement on Facebook and Instagram. If AI-enabled efficiency continues to scale, investors could see substantial upside as the company expands its AI tooling and data advantages across its platforms.

Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z Trifold, First Tri-Folding Smartphone, at APEC Sidelines

October 28, 2025, 4:02 AM EDT. At the K-Tech Showcase near the APEC CEO Summit in Gyeongju, Samsung Electronics stole the spotlight with its first tri-folding smartphone, the Galaxy Z Trifold. The device uses a dual in-folding mechanism that folds inward from both sides, transforming from a bar-shaped phone into a roughly 10-inch tablet-style display. The exterior remains slim, with an unfolded thickness around 4.2 mm and a folded profile near 1.2-1.5 cm. While official specs were undisclosed, observers estimate a ~10-inch unfolded screen and a barely noticeable crease, with each panel housing its own battery to extend life. Samsung positions the launch against Huawei's Mate XT, signaling a strategic push to lead the premium foldable market as production could begin next month in Korea.

NVIDIA Unveils OmniVinci: Research-Only Multimodal LLM for Cross-Modal Reasoning

October 28, 2025, 3:46 AM EDT. NVIDIA has unveiled OmniVinci, a research-only multimodal LLM designed to understand text, vision, audio, and robotics data. The model unifies modalities via three innovations: OmniAlignNet for shared vision/audio embeddings, Temporal Embedding Grouping to capture cross-modal timing, and Constrained Rotary Time Embedding for absolute temporal encoding. A new data-synthesis engine produced over 24 million multi-modal conversations to train cross-modal reasoning, with only 0.2 trillion tokens-one-sixth of the tokens used by Qwen2.5-Omni. In benchmarks, OmniVinci reportedly achieves +19.05 on DailyOmni (cross-modal), +1.7 on MMAR (audio), and +3.9 on Video-MME (vision). Licensing restricts commercial use under NVIDIA's OneWay Noncommercial License, sparking debate about openness. Access through Hugging Face scripts; runs on NVILA with full GPU acceleration for real-time apps.

Grokipedia Goes Live: Elon Musk's AI-Powered Wikipedia Alternative

October 28, 2025, 3:30 AM EDT. Grokipedia, Elon Musk's AI-powered encyclopedia from xAI, goes live as a potential alternative to Wikipedia. The platform relies on Grok AI to blend verified data with user contributions and currently supports direct topic searches. In its v0.1 release, Grokipedia hosts roughly 885,000 articles-far fewer than Wikipedia, but aims for neutral, evidence-based entries rather than editorial opinion. The site briefly went offline at launch and faced early content quirks, including a Musk entry mentioning weight loss. Musk says future updates will boost accuracy and that version 1.0 will be "ten times better". Access is public, with ongoing refinements to ensure neutral knowledge.

Southern farms: Online input purchases rise as precision agriculture use declines

October 28, 2025, 3:26 AM EDT. New findings from the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) show internet use on farms rising in the Southern Region, even as precision agriculture adoption slips in several states. The biennial NASS survey (2025 release with 2023 comparatives) asks producers about devices, internet access, and online activities. In 2025, about half of U.S. farms report buying inputs online, with Southern states posting notable gains-Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Texas each showing more than a 100% increase since 2023. Online agricultural marketing sits around 25% in the South (vs 29% nationwide). Yet the right-hand column shows seven Southern states with lower precision agriculture use between 2023 and 2025, while others rose. Internet-enabled farming remains a key driver of decision-making.

Emma Thompson Calls AI an 'Intense Irritation' on Colbert, Demands It Leave Her Writing Alone

October 28, 2025, 3:20 AM EDT. Emma Thompson used The Late Show with Stephen Colbert to vent about artificial intelligence (AI), calling it an 'intense irritation' and explaining she writes longhand because she believes in a brain-hand connection. Colbert noted his own habit of writing by hand to memorize lines. Thompson added that AI frequently suggests rewriting her work, and she told it to 'f–k off.' The clip has reignited debates about AI in creative industries, echoing comments from other celebrities like Joseph Gordon-Levitt and SAG-AFTRA president Sean Astin on copyright, consent, and the economic impact of AI tools. The Late Show airs weeknights on CBS.

Mercor pays over $1.5 million a day to humans training AI, says its CEO

October 28, 2025, 3:16 AM EDT. Mercor's CEO claims the company spends more than $1.5 million per day hiring humans to label data and train AI models. The high cost underscores the ongoing investment in data annotation, model training, and AI safety as firms race to improve capabilities while scaling infrastructure and quality controls.

HMD Fuse: The first smartphone that blocks porn with HarmBlock AI

October 28, 2025, 2:48 AM EDT. Finland's Human Mobile Devices unveils the Fuse, a kid-friendly smartphone that auto-blocks nude content. It ships with extensive parental controls-location tracking, screen time limits, app blocking and whitelisting-and starts as a locked 'brick' with no social apps or app store access; parents grant access via a companion app. The standout feature is HarmBlock AI, embedded in the OS and developed with UK safety firm SafeToNet, which scans content in real time to block pornography, delete nude files, and even stop the camera from taking nude images. SafeToNet says HarmBlock AI runs offline and across any app, website or message, without data collection. HMD frames Fuse as a new safety-first phone category, amid debates on device bans in schools.

Google and NextEra revive Iowa's Duane Arnold nuclear plant to power AI with carbon-free energy

October 28, 2025, 2:46 AM EDT. Google and NextEra Energy plan to restart Iowa's Duane Arnold Energy Center by 2029 to provide carbon-free power for Google's AI cloud and operations, with the 615-MW plant operating as a 24/7 energy source. The move aims to bolster grid reliability and meet surging electricity demand driven by AI and data centers. Surplus power would be sold to the Central Iowa Power Cooperative, signaling a broader tech-nuclear trend as the U.S. weighs nuclear options to support a growing energy footprint for AI. Regulators will weigh safety, cost, and siting as tech giants pursue scalable, low-carbon energy, a path complemented by partnerships like Microsoft-Constellation and Oracle's small-reactor initiatives.

Infinix enters Israel to challenge Xiaomi with budget smartphones

October 28, 2025, 2:42 AM EDT. Infinix has launched in Israel, introducing three new smartphones aimed at challenging Xiaomi in the budget segment. The lineup includes a slim-design model and a gaming-focused option, with prices ranging from 1,350 to 2,000 shekels. The standout device highlighted is the Note 50 Pro Plus, signaling Infinix's push to compete on specs and value. The move positions Infinix as a local competitor to Xiaomi in a market where midrange devices attract price-conscious shoppers. The three models promise modern screens and capable performance for everyday use and casual gaming, while keeping costs accessible. This expansion could intensify competition in the Israeli smartphone market and reshape local choices for consumers.

DeepSeek and the risk of AI health advice replacing doctors: a mother's story

October 28, 2025, 2:30 AM EDT. In a small eastern Chinese city, a 57-year-old kidney transplant patient turns to DeepSeek, a leading AI health chatbot, for diagnosis and guidance. She uploads ultrasounds and labs, tweaks her immunosuppressants, and follows lifestyle tips learned online, often at home rather than in a clinic. The bot answers with empathy, and she calls it her best health adviser. The writer, meanwhile, worries about relying on AI when human clinicians are overbooked and time-pressed. As chatbots seep into healthcare, they offer accessibility and support but also raise questions about safety, privacy, and proper oversight. The piece asks how AI can augment, not replace, doctors-and what care looks like when trust hinges on algorithms.

Chegg cuts about 45% of staff as AI reshapes online learning

October 28, 2025, 2:28 AM EDT. Chegg Inc., the Santa Clara online learning platform, said it will cut about 45% of its workforce-roughly 388 employees-to address reduced traffic from Google and shifts in generative AI. The restructuring aims to lower 2026 non-GAAP expenses by $100-$110 million and incur $15-$19 million in cash severance. Executive Chairman Dan Rosensweig will resume the CEO role, with Nathan Schultz stepping down to advisor. Chegg will remain independent, pursuing growth in its expanding skilling market and a new B2B focus beyond traditional study help. The firm cited 'new realities of AI' and changing search patterns as key drivers of the revenue decline and traffic drop.

Elon Musk launches Grokipedia, an AI-powered encyclopedia with Wikipedia disclaimer

October 28, 2025, 1:58 AM EDT. Elon Musk has launched Grokipedia, an AI-powered encyclopedia on X that aims to rival Wikipedia. The site touts version 0.1 as capable and promises 'the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth,' though some results are adapted from Wikipedia and carry a note: 'The content is adapted from Wikipedia, licensed under Creative Commons.' Grokipedia relies on Grok, xAI's AI, to fact-check entries while user claims of copied content persist. Unlike Wikipedia, Grokipedia currently limits edits and offers less transparency on edits, and is tied to a for-profit venture. The Wikimedia Foundation responded by underscoring that Wikipedia is human-driven, open to collaboration, and built on community governance, even as AI experiments continue.

Amazon plans up to 30,000 corporate layoffs in major cost-cutting push

October 28, 2025, 1:56 AM EDT. Amazon is reportedly planning up to 30,000 layoffs among its corporate office staff as part of a broad cost-cutting push led by CEO Andy Jassy. Reports from The Wall Street Journal and Reuters say the cuts could reach roughly 10% of the company's corporate headcount, though Amazon employs more than 1.5 million people worldwide. The timing remains unclear, and the move would be Amazon's largest round of cuts since 2022. The company has been investing heavily in AI tools to boost efficiency, with Jassy signaling that automation may reduce routine tasks and require fewer people in some roles while reassigning staff to different jobs.

Amazon Reportedly Plans to Cut 30,000 Corporate Jobs This Week

October 28, 2025, 1:42 AM EDT. Reuters reports Amazon is planning to cut about 30,000 corporate roles this week across departments including HR, AWS, and Operations, Devices & Services. The cuts would amount to roughly 10% of Amazon's roughly 350,000 corporate employees, though they are a small fraction of its 1.5 million-strong workforce. Managers were told to prep communications training as notifications are set to go out Tuesday morning. No official reason was given, but CEO Andy Jassy has signaled a broader shift toward AI-driven roles, suggesting some tasks could be performed with fewer people. Some links to the recent AWS outage are noted in coverage, but no confirmation exists. Amazon has not commented, and readers should treat the report as unconfirmed until multiple sources or an official statement emerge.

Grokipedia: Elon Musk's AI-Generated Wikipedia Rival – What You Need to Know

October 28, 2025, 1:40 AM EDT. Elon Musk unveiled Grokipedia, an AI-generated encyclopedia designed as a rival to Wikipedia. Version 0.1 features over 885,000 articles, with all content generated and fact-checked by xAI's Grok and not editable by users. Musk claims future versions will improve, promising "truth, the whole truth." Some Grokipedia entries closely mirror Wikipedia articles, with disclaimers noting adaptations from CC BY-SA 4.0. The Wikimedia Foundation says human-made knowledge remains essential and that such experiments don't alter Wikipedia's mission. Grokipedia's approach raises questions about bias, transparency, and how AI-created knowledge should be governed while users will be able to request additions or deletions and be told why a decision was made.

The web becomes a hive mind of AI agents as Vercel builds a cloud to host them

October 28, 2025, 1:28 AM EDT. The web is evolving into a sprawling network of AI-enabled agents that collaborate across apps and services. As developers outfit websites and platforms with autonomous routines, the result is a new kind of distributed software ecosystem-a hive mind of decisions, data, and actions. Vercel is signaling a bold move to create a cloud designed to host and orchestrate these agents, offering managed runtimes, edge compute, and seamless integration with existing tooling. For builders, the vision promises faster deployment, scalable AI workloads, and tighter coupling between frontend experiences and backend intelligence. The shift raises questions about interoperability, security, and governance as autonomous software becomes mainstream on the internet.

Apple tops $100B in services revenue as legal risks mount

October 28, 2025, 1:24 AM EDT. Apple has topped $100 billion in annual services revenue for the first time, signaling a durable shift from devices to a growing ecosystem that includes iCloud, App Store, Music, TV+, and AppleCare. The milestone underscores the profitability and recurring revenue that services bring as hardware growth slows. Yet the spotlight on Apple's market power continues to bring rising legal risks and regulatory scrutiny in several jurisdictions over App Store practices, data privacy, and competition. Analysts say services profits could bolster margins and cushion quarterly results, but policy actions and potential settlements may influence pricing, commissions, and user experience. If sustained, the services push could redefine Apple's trajectory and long-term growth prospects.

Original Pixel Watch gets final October update as Wear OS support ends

October 28, 2025, 1:20 AM EDT. Google rolled out Wear OS 6 for the Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Watch 3, but the original Pixel Watch won't get this update. Google is releasing a final October build, BW1A.251005.003.W, based on Wear OS 5.1 that includes only security updates and bug fixes. It does not include the October security patch and remains on June. Owners can install it via Settings → System → System updates while the watch is on charge and on Wi-Fi. This marks the end of official support begun in October 2022 with a promised three years of updates. A future update is unlikely unless a critical vulnerability appears. By contrast, the Galaxy Watch 4 will receive Wear OS 6, while the original Pixel Watch helped shape Google's current smartwatch lineup, culminating in Pixel Watch 4.

Nothing Phone 3a Lite 5G vs Nothing Phone 3a 5G: Price, specs and India launch

October 28, 2025, 1:06 AM EDT. Nothing Phone 3a Lite 5G and Nothing Phone 3a 5G are set for a head-to-head in India. The launch teaser reveals a transparent design with a new rear LED for notifications, while the 3a 5G retains Glyph lights around the camera. Both models reportedly share a 6.77-inch AMOLED, 120Hz display. In performance, the Lite 5G reportedly uses the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 with 8GB RAM, while the 3a 5G uses Snapdragon 7s Gen 3. Battery remains 5000mAh, but charging differs at 33W vs 50W. Camera setups are similar: 50MP main, 50MP telephoto, 8MP ultrawide; selfie is 16MP on Lite vs 32MP on 3a. Price expectations: 3a 5G Rs. 23,999 (8GB+128GB) and 3a Lite around Rs. 20,000.

An AI bubble isn't a bad thing for savvy investors, says Groq CEO

October 28, 2025, 12:52 AM EDT. Groq's CEO argues that an AI investment bubble can accelerate innovation rather than burst markets. For savvy investors, the key is identifying how demand for AI chips, inference accelerators and specialized hardware outpaces supply, creating opportunities in both startups and established players. The exec emphasizes that while valuations may rise, the long-term trajectory of AI adoption across data centers, cloud services, and edge devices justifies capital inflows. Groq positions itself as a differentiated player with high-efficiency AI chips and a software stack tuned for real-time workloads, making it attractive to those betting on sustained AI demand. In short, the bubble could fuel winner-takes-most momentum for firms delivering practical, scalable AI infrastructure.

Google and NextEra to Restart Iowa's Duane Arnold Nuclear Plant to Power AI Era

October 28, 2025, 12:18 AM EDT. Google and NextEra Energy announced a 25-year deal to restart the Duane Arnold Energy Center in Iowa, returning the 615-MW plant to operation by early 2029 pending regulatory approval. Under the agreement, Google will buy a sizable share of the plant's output as 24/7 carbon-free energy to power its cloud and AI infrastructure, with the remainder sold to CIPCO on similar terms. NextEra will gain full ownership after acquiring CIPCO and Corn Belt Power's stake. The revival marks a major step in the convergence of Big Tech and clean baseload power, promising about 400 permanent jobs and more than $9 billion in total economic benefits for Iowa, plus local tax revenue. The deal signals a broader push to secure low-carbon, reliable generation for the AI-driven economy.