Technology News 05.02.2026

T-Mobile unveils two unadvertised plans offering savings for existing subscribers

February 5, 2026, 11:58 PM EST. Two unadvertised T-Mobile plans, spotted by The Mobile Report, offer savings for existing customers. The first, dubbed Experience More with Appreciation Savings, mirrors the carrier's Experience More plan but trims line prices from $85/$140/$170/$200 to $75/$120/$150/$180. Trade-ins are not as valuable on this option, reducing value if you plan to exchange devices. The plan is not widely advertised, so eligibility may vary. A second option, the Loyalty Plan, is also described by The Mobile Report but details remain sparse in the briefing. The moves illustrate T-Mobile's hidden incentives for retention, while the standard plans continue to advertise higher price points. Readers should check with their account to confirm availability.

DJI Matrice 30 drone aids search for lost hiker in Santa Fe

February 5, 2026, 11:52 PM EST. The Santa Fe Fire Department relied on a newly acquired DJI Matrice 30 drone to locate a 62-year-old woman who became stranded near Aspen Vista Road, close to the summit of Ski Santa Fe. Dispatchers obtained her coordinates from cell-phone data at about 3:30 p.m., guiding rescuers to her location. From the air, the Matrice 30 scanned the snow-covered terrain, reducing the need for dangerous ground searches in deep snow. The drone, built for public safety and industrial use, highlights how modern unmanned aircraft support search-and-rescue operations. The report cites Unnoficial Networks as the source.

Nvidia's decade-long push to keep Shield TV updated

February 5, 2026, 11:50 PM EST. Nvidia has pursued long-term support for the Shield TV. After a quiet period in 2023-24, over-the-air updates resumed in 2025 as engineers tackled a DRM vulnerability tied to the original Tegra X1 chip, the processor behind the Nintendo Switch. The Shield's 2015 and 2017 generations faced degraded DRM-enabled 4K playback, prompting a major fix. Nvidia spent about 18 months building a new security stack to patch the vulnerability on the first two generations. Some partners resisted recertifying older models, but the team pressed on, arguing they had promised customers the box would retain features. The effort underscores a decade-long commitment to keep the device updated, even as some wondered if Nvidia had moved on, a sign of the pledge, as long as we shall live.

One key figure Nvidia investors will watch on Feb. 25

February 5, 2026, 11:46 PM EST. Nvidia remains the world's top supplier of data-center chips for AI. About 90% of its fiscal 2026 revenue is from the data-center segment, led by AI GPUs. The company reports its fiscal 2026 fourth quarter on Feb. 25, with annual revenue guidance near $213 billion. Focus has shifted to the Rubin generation, which Nvidia says can train AI models with 75% fewer GPUs and cut inference costs by up to 90%. Rubin is in production and will ship in H2 calendar year, with Amazon, Microsoft and Alphabet among early customers. The key number to watch on Feb. 25 may be Rubin's commercialization pace and its potential to drive fiscal 2027 growth, beyond today's revenue and earnings headlines.

Intel signals GPU push after hiring chief GPU architect, eyes data centers

February 5, 2026, 11:42 PM EST. At the Cisco AI Summit, Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan said the company will start producing GPUs for data centers, signaling a push into a field led by Nvidia. He announced the hire of Qualcomm veteran Eric Demmers as chief GPU architect, saying the move helped persuade him to join Intel. The plan centers on GPUs as parallel processors for AI workloads, complementary to Intel's traditional CPUs. Tan noted the effort will be customer-driven and tied to the data center. Intel's CFO recently warned of a CPU demand shortfall, while the company also positions itself to work with Nvidia as a customer for Intel's factories. The article underscores Intel's strategy to compete in AI infrastructure.

Amazon posts Q4 growth in cloud, but profit misses as capex climbs

February 5, 2026, 11:40 PM EST. Amazon posted a 14% rise in fourth-quarter revenue as holiday demand bolstered activity, but quarterly profit lagged estimates. The company will lift capital spending to about $200 billion this year, up nearly 60% from 2024, a plan that unsettled investors who had anticipated around $147 billion in capex. CEO Andy Jassy said the returns will come as fast as AI capacity is installed and monetized. The company also outlined ongoing cost cuts, including about 16,000 corporate layoffs in the second round and roughly 5,000 retail job cuts, totaling more than 30,000 since October. AWS (Amazon Web Services) grew 24% in Q4, its fastest pace in 13 quarters, underscoring cloud strength amid broader AI investments.

Starlink updates privacy policy to use customer data for AI training; opt-out guide

February 5, 2026, 11:34 PM EST. Starlink updated its privacy policy on Jan. 15 to allow using customer data to train AI models, with users opted in by default. The policy covers standard data such as contact details, performance metrics and billing, and also broad categories like communication information and inferences from other information. Starlink says your internet history will not be shared with AI models, and HTTPS encryption helps protect content. Critics warn of risks, including prompt engineering and potential leakage of personal data into training data. The move comes as SpaceX pursues AI ventures with xAI. Opting out is straightforward: log in via the app or website, open Privacy Preferences, and uncheck the box that permits data use for AI training.

Starlink dominates Ookla Q3 speed tests with 97.1% share

February 5, 2026, 11:32 PM EST. Ookla's global speed tests for Q3 show Starlink powering nearly all results. The satellite network captured 97.1% of tests, with Viasat at 1.7% and HughesNet at 1%. The data highlight Starlink's leadership in the satellite internet market, relative to traditional providers. Analysts note the figures reflect test samples rather than consumer experiences across regions. The results come as Starlink expands its user base and launches new terminals, while rivals remain far smaller in field tests.

Samsung scrapped Galaxy S26 upgrades to avoid a price hike, but leaks show price rise still coming

February 5, 2026, 11:26 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S26 was expected to bring upgrades-dropping the Plus for a thinner Edge, upgraded Pro and Ultra variants, and rumored Qi2 charging and cameras. Leaks say the plan changed after Apple did not hike prices on the iPhone 17, leading to cost-cutting. The result: a rushed S26+ and a lineup largely unchanged. Price leaks contradict the aim of keeping costs steady: in Sweden, base S26 at €1,049 and Ultra at €1,399; in France, modest bumps of €40 for the base and €100 for the S26+. Samsung has not confirmed pricing, and regional changes remain fluid.

LaGuardia Uber Black mix-up: Tesla arrives, sparking motion-sickness debate

February 5, 2026, 11:24 PM EST. At New York LaGuardia, a viral clip shows Valentina ordering Uber Black after a long flight, only to have a black Tesla pull up instead of the expected luxury SUV. The passenger jokes she'll need nausea medicine as she films the scene. Uber Black is marketed as high-end sedans and SUVs; a Tesla in this context is viewed as a downgrade by some riders. Experts say regenerative braking in EVs can feel jerky to back-seat passengers, creating motion sickness due to sensory mismatch between eyes, inner ear, and brain. Quiet cabins, common in EVs, can worsen the effect by reducing audible cues. Dr. Monya De and AutoPacific analyst Ed Kim provided context. The incident underscores how vehicle type can shape ride experiences.

Nvidia salaries: How much engineers, PMs got paid in 2025

February 5, 2026, 11:20 PM EST. Nvidia compensation for 2025 shows how engineers and PMs are paid beyond base salary. The data, drawn from compensation surveys and insider listings, show that engineers and PMs see pay that blends a solid base with substantial stock-based compensation and occasional sign-on bonuses. Across levels, location impacts pay, with higher-cost regions offering larger packages. Nvidia's approach mirrors broader tech trends: competitive cash pay, long-term equity, and performance-linked rewards aimed at retaining talent through growth. The report highlights ranges rather than fixed figures, reflecting variability by role, seniority and team, and notes compensation evolves with company milestones and market demand.

CATL sodium-ion battery debuts in first mass-production vehicle with CHANGAN

February 5, 2026, 11:16 PM EST. CATL and CHANGAN unveiled the world's first mass-production passenger car powered by a sodium-ion battery, with market availability targeted for mid-2026. CATL will supply its Naxtra cells across CHANGAN's brand lineup after the battery passed China's GB 38031-2025 standard. The Naxtra cells offer rapid charging from -40°C to 70°C and an energy density of up to 175 Wh/kg, a benchmark for mass production and comparable to LFP chemistry. CATL says the technology supports a dual-chemistry ecosystem alongside lithium-ion. R&D began over a decade ago; the first generation could reach 80% SOC in 15 minutes at room temperature. The plan includes 3,000 Choco-Swap stations in 140 cities by 2026, with Li Auto integrating sodium-ion batteries in future models; swapping network remains compatible.

Hyundai and Kia patent dual-battery EV system to boost performance

February 5, 2026, 11:12 PM EST. Policy changes create limbo for EVs in America, but electrification remains likely. Global manufacturers Hyundai and Kia will press on. CarBuzz reports a joint patent for a new EV layout. The design uses two traction batteries: a main battery and a boost battery, both powering motors. In typical EVs, there is a main battery plus a 12V battery; this system would keep a high-capacity main pack while adding a smaller boost battery to supply high-power bursts when needed. The main battery would be more efficient and routinely charged via external charger or regenerative braking. The boost battery would provide short-term power to the motors for acceleration, potentially improving performance while preserving range. The timing and feasibility remain unclear; a patent filing doesn't guarantee production.

Apple scales back Health+ under Eddy Cue, shifts to incremental releases

February 5, 2026, 11:10 PM EST. Apple is scaling back its Health+ initiative after Eddy Cue took charge following Jeff Williams' retirement, transitioning from a single, umbrella launch to smaller, incremental releases. The company has never confirmed Health+ or a concrete plan, but Bloomberg reports an AI chat interface and discussions of users' health data were among the envisioned features, alongside professional videos and health assessments. Apple reportedly delayed a version planned for iOS 26 amid FDA considerations and regulatory hurdles. Sumbul Desai remains in charge of health initiatives, with Apple Fitness now under her remit, and a broader tie-in with Google appears to underlie the pivot. The strategy seeks easier consumer education and regulatory approval while keeping Health+ work alive for future deployment.

DJI Mavic 4 Pro long-term review: telephoto power and night performance

February 5, 2026, 11:08 PM EST. DJI Mavic 4 Pro long-term review: not a buy-for-everyone, but a drone that becomes indispensable for cinematic creators. After nine months, it reveals its strengths-primarily its three lenses: 28mm wide, 70mm mid-telephoto, and 168mm telephoto. The longer focal lengths deliver true compression, subject separation, and parallax, enabling storytelling without close proximity. Yet they can look soft at times, a hardware constraint DJI hasn't fully addressed with firmware. The 28mm remains solid, while the telephotos reward experienced pilots with cinematic nuance. Night performance is surprisingly strong; usable footage even in near-dark scenes with manageable noise, aided by noise reduction in post. The drone is not for beginners, casual flyers, or budget shoppers. For professionals prioritizing image quality and flexibility, the Mavic 4 Pro often wins out.

DJI Pocket 4 Pro surfaces in FCC filings, new Pocket 4P spotted

February 5, 2026, 11:06 PM EST. DJI's Pocket 4 Pro has appeared in U.S. regulatory records, indicating a market debut alongside or after the standard Pocket 4. The filing shows a new model code, Pocket 4P, and a different FCC ID from the original Pocket 4. The documents list Osmo Pocket 4P with model PP-041 and FCC ID 2ANDR-PP041, filed by SZ DJI Osmo Technology Co., Ltd., with a certification date of 2025-12-15. Officials note the device complies with Part 2 of the rules and may be tested by SGS, FCC, or ISED. The leak aligns with long-standing rumors of a dual-lens Pocket 4 Pro, with visuals that resemble DJI Air 3S camera systems. DJI has registered multiple variations in FCC filings, suggesting a broader Pocket 4 lineup for the U.S.

Sapiom raises $15 million seed to let AI agents pay for tools and services

February 5, 2026, 11:04 PM EST. Sapiom, led by former Shopify payments director Ilan Zerbib, has raised $15 million in a seed round led by Accel to build a financial layer for AI agents. The system lets AI agents securely purchase software, APIs, data, and compute, handling authentication and micro-payments behind the scenes. The goal: remove backend infrastructure hurdles for vibe-coding platforms and other builders so agents can decide what to buy and when without human intervention. Investors say this payments-centric approach-where every API call is a payment-could scale from enterprises to consumer agents over time. Early days, but the tech could streamline on-boarding for services like Twilio via pass-through fees from platforms such as Lovable or Bolt.

Google says Apple will use Google Cloud for Gemini, despite Apple's private-server claim

February 5, 2026, 11:02 PM EST. Google says Apple will use Google Cloud as part of the Gemini deal, a stance that clashes with Apple's claim it runs on its own servers and Private Cloud Compute (Apple-owned cloud resources). Apple says it will rely on its own infrastructure instead. Separately, people familiar with the plan say Apple intends to use Google Cloud to power the Siri chatbot this fall. The contrasting statements underscore how the AI workloads rubric-where data is processed-remains unsettled as the two tech giants collaborate on advanced features.

Quantum computing expands possibilities as NSF funds ecosystem

February 5, 2026, 11:00 PM EST. Quantum computers use qubits, not bits, to process information. They rely on superposition and entanglement to run many calculations in parallel, a feature that could outpace classical machines for certain problems. Experts say breakthroughs depend on a connected ecosystem: quantum devices, networks and sensors working together. U.S. National Science Foundation funding underpins research, training and education for scientists and engineers while speeding the development of new quantum technologies. Potential applications include drug discovery through molecular simulation, optimization of supply chains, discovery of new materials, and ultra-secure communication via quantum cryptography. Today, the field remains experimental: qubits are fragile, systems require temperatures near absolute zero, and scaling to hundreds or thousands of qubits remains a major challenge. Progress is measured in incremental gains rather than instant leaps.

Affleck: AI unlikely to replace human filmmakers; existential dread overstated

February 5, 2026, 10:50 PM EST. Ben Affleck told Joe Rogan that AI is unlikely to write meaningful films or create movies from scratch, calling the prospect of a complete AI takeover an 'existential dread' that is not likely to materialize. He said AI is more likely to streamline costly parts of production than replace humans. By contrast, a McKinsey & Company analysis envisions AI playing a growing role in development and production workflows for film and television. Google.org is funding a $2 million AI-education initiative with the Sundance Institute, Gotham Film and Media Institute, and Film Independent to teach filmmakers how to use AI responsibly. Outside Hollywood, gamers are raising concerns about generative AI art and dialogue. Affleck noted existing protections around image rights; misuse of likeness is legally restricted.

Apple iPhone 17e rumored to launch Feb. 19 with MagSafe and new chips

February 5, 2026, 10:48 PM EST. Macwelt reports the iPhone 17e could launch on February 19, exactly a year after the iPhone 16e. The claim cites an anonymous source among case and accessory makers and notes Thursday releases are rare for Apple. Skepticism is warranted; Apple does not share launch specifics with accessory makers. Still, February timing appears plausible based on last year's rhythm, according to the report. The iPhone 17e is said to include MagSafe charging, aligning with prior notes from The Information. Separately, Macotakara details changes: an A19 chip, a faster C1X modem up to twice the speed of the original, and an N1 network chip for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Thread. Design reportedly remains with a notch and one rear camera.

Dogecoin gains U.S. exchange-traded products; SpaceX DOGE-1 mission confirmed

February 5, 2026, 10:44 PM EST. Dogecoin now has exchange-traded products (ETPs) in the United States, providing institutional investors regulated access to DOGE; ETPs are funds that trade on exchanges like stocks. The move comes amid ongoing questions about Dogecoin's inflation risk and limited everyday use. The products track the token's price and are listed on major U.S. exchanges, expanding official exposure beyond over-the-counter markets. In another milestone for the asset, Elon Musk's SpaceX confirmed the DOGE-1 lunar mission, aiming to carry a Dogecoin payload to the Moon by 2027. The mission highlights the token's ambitions beyond Earth. The updates were reported by TradingView News.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 aims to redefine wearables with health, battery and connectivity upgrades

February 5, 2026, 10:42 PM EST. Samsung is preparing the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, aiming to sharpen health tracking, durability, and device independence. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is expected to keep a rugged 47mm chassis, with improvements in durability and a satellite connectivity feature for off-grid use. Health features are being led by rumors of non-invasive glucose monitoring and enhanced skin-based analytics for hydration and stress, plus nutrition tracking with real-time guidance. A new dual-chip processor is anticipated to boost power efficiency and extend multi-day battery life, helping the watches keep pace with demanding schedules. Samsung seeks practical upgrades to stay competitive in a crowded market, trading flashy changes for tangible usability.

Android gaming tablets return as Xiaomi Black Shark and Lenovo Legion Y700 near launches

February 5, 2026, 10:40 PM EST. Xiaomi has listed the Black Shark Gaming Tablet on its global site, pointing to a wider launch. Specs show a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, 12GB RAM, 256GB storage, an 8.8-inch 1600×2560 display with a 144Hz refresh rate, a 7,300mAh battery, and 13MP rear plus 5MP front cameras. A cooling system features a large VC heat dissipation plate, graphene sheets and metal cooling. Lenovo has teased its Legion Y700 with a supposed 8.8-inch LCD at 165Hz, a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, a 9,000mAh+ battery and a 50MP camera. No prices or firm global dates are given; Lenovo's launch is pegged for March (likely China-only), while Xiaomi's tablet may reach broader markets soon.

Hypervision shows 220° FOV optical system for VR headsets; Lynx R2 uses its lenses

February 5, 2026, 10:38 PM EST. At United XR Europe, Hypervision rolled out its wide-angle optical systems for VR headsets, aimed at solving the decade-long stagnation in FOV. The standouts include a prototype boasting more than 200° horizontal FOV and lenses that the Lynx R2 uses, helping it claim the widest FOV among standalone mixed-reality headsets. The author has followed Hypervision for years and tried earlier prototypes, including the first system based on BOE Fast-LCD displays with a 2.1K per eye resolution and a 160° x 120° field of view. Those lenses offered immersive peripheral vision. Hypervision CEO Arthur Rabner guided the hands-on session; a live video from the event was recorded. The story underscores a shift toward ultra-wide optics, while practical trade-offs and real-world colors remain to be seen.

Moltbook: the AI-agent social network built on OpenClaw

February 5, 2026, 10:36 PM EST. Moltbook has gone viral as a Reddit-style platform populated entirely by AI agents, not humans. Built on the OpenClaw framework, it lets bot accounts post, comment and vote, while people observe. The project traces back to an AI startup founder and a bot nicknamed Clawd Clawderberg, with the idea of giving AI agents a social platform rather than only task-oriented chores. The OpenClaw project has alternately been known as Moltbot and Clawdbot; branding shifts were prompted by Anthropic's lawyers. Official figures describe Moltbook as hosting more than 1 million agents, 185,000 posts and 1.4 million comments, organized into thousands of topic-based "submolts." An early attention-grabber is a submolt named m/blesstheirhearts. The experiment highlights how agent-to-agent ecosystems emerge and how branding touches complicate hype.

Hamster launches Console Archives on Switch 2 as Virtual Console legacy returns

February 5, 2026, 10:34 PM EST. Nintendo's 2018 move away from the Virtual Console toward time-limited Switch Online access is met by Hamster Corporation's Console Archives, a direct-download line for Switch 2 (with PS5 release next week; Xbox and OG Switch excluded). Announced at the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase, the lineup opens with Cool Boarders for $12 and Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of Chaos for $8, with Doraemon and Sonic Wings Special teased for future releases. Hamster, long behind the Arcade Archive series, aims to faithfully reproduce home-console classics on modern hardware. Features include customizable controls, screen options, and save/load, though the package remains lean compared with full museum-style collections.

Haryana's free tablet scheme falters as glitches and internet gaps hinder digital learning

February 5, 2026, 10:32 PM EST. Haryana's free tablet scheme, rolled out in 2022 under the e-Adhigam plan, has not delivered its intended digital-learning impact. About 500,000 8.7-inch tablets, costing roughly ₹12,500 each and worth ₹620 crore, were distributed to Class 10 and 12 students, with 2 GB daily internet data for many users and thousands of teachers also equipped. Four years on, tablets preloaded with PAL software sit unused in cupboards because of internet gaps, glitches, weak batteries, and a lack of a reset mechanism. Internet access was funded at around ₹57 crore but ended last year, leaving students to rely on school Wi-Fi or home data. Complaints include malfunctioning apps, monitoring disruptions via the AVSAR portal, and instances of misuse for YouTube and social media, prompting device collection by schools, according to Hindustan Times.

Artemis II: NASA targets wet dress rehearsal after cold-weather delay at Kennedy Space Center

February 5, 2026, 10:30 PM EST. NASA's plan for a wet dress rehearsal of the Space Launch System for Artemis II remains on track after a cold-weather delay. The fueling test at Kennedy Space Center will precede a potential launch window from Cape Canaveral between Feb. 8 and April 6, pending reviews. Artemis II would carry three men and one woman aboard the Orion capsule for a roughly 10-day lunar flyby, the first crewed Moon mission since 1972. The rocket stands about 322 feet tall and will be fed 700,000 gallons of cryogenic propellants during the test, after which a flight readiness review follows.

IKEA Matter connectivity issues spill into Google Home button automations

February 5, 2026, 10:28 PM EST. Users report ongoing Matter connectivity problems with IKEA devices, complicating button automations in Google Home. IKEA says some customers experience setup and pairing issues when devices run over Thread in certain environments, and a dedicated team is investigating with ecosystem partners and the Connectivity Standards Alliance. In practice, testers have seen IKEA bulbs and sensors fail to pair with Apple Home and Home Assistant, and the Bilresa button can disconnect after initial pairing or fail to appear in automations. Even after Google announced that Google Home supports smart buttons, at least some devices do not consistently pair, trigger automations, or remain connected. IKEA's Dirigera hub also struggles to work through Home, though some users report partial success. The situation underscores compatibility gaps as Matter matures.

Apple's Lockdown Mode could stop government access to iPhone, but at a cost

February 5, 2026, 10:24 PM EST. Apple's Lockdown Mode is a low-attack-surface setting for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac. The feature targets high-risk users – journalists, politicians, activists – by curbing features attackers exploit. Apple says it blocks most message attachments, reduces web tech use, limits FaceTime, and restricts some services. Aim: shrink the attack surface used by spyware. In a January raid, the FBI accessed other devices but could not reach Natanson's iPhone because Lockdown Mode was active. Users face downsides: fewer message attachments, altered web pages, missing images, and limited communication. Officials say the setting is optional and should be chosen with risk in mind.

Pokémon GO Battle League Leaderboard Challenges Award Championship Points

February 5, 2026, 10:22 PM EST. Scopely and The Pokémon Company introduce Pokémon GO Battle League Leaderboard Challenges, awarding Championship Points based on final global leaderboard position. The system links GO Battle League results to the Pokémon Championship Series without live events. Battles use the standard blind three-Pokemon format, not the show-six format. The first challenge runs March 3, 2026, 1:00 p.m. PT to June 2, 2026, 1:00 p.m. PDT, with a break until September 1, 2026. The 2026 World Championships are scheduled for August 28-30 at Moscone Center. To participate, players must link Pokémon GO to Pokémon Trainer Central accounts and opt in to Play! Pokémon, ensuring their Battle League performance earns points worldwide.

Reddit bets on AI-powered search as next big growth driver

February 5, 2026, 10:20 PM EST. Reddit positioned its AI-powered search as the next big growth opportunity, signaling the technology could reshape monetization. On Thursday's earnings call, the company outlined plans to merge traditional search with generative AI search and said the market is huge even if not yet monetized. CEO Steve Huffman argued AI search handles questions with no single answer by offering multiple perspectives, while traditional search remains strong for navigation. Data show weekly active users for search rose 30% year over year (60M to 80M) and Reddit Answers users grew from 1M to 15M. The firm is modernizing AI answers with media-rich responses and piloting dynamic agents. Licensing Reddit data for AI training is growing, contributing to other revenue, up 8% to $36 million in Q4 and $140 million in 2025. Aiming to personalize experiences for users by 2026.

Apple scales back iOS 27 Health+ feature; components repurposed for this year

February 5, 2026, 10:18 PM EST. Apple will not ship the long-rumored Health+ feature in iOS 27, a Bloomberg report by Mark Gurman says. Health+ was pitched as an AI-powered health coach inside the Apple Health app, offering personal health recommendations, detailed reports and explanatory videos. The feature is being scaled back rather than canceled, with some components to be repurposed and introduced this year. The move follows broader efforts to recalibrate health ambitions and prioritize core OS features. Apple has not confirmed a timeline for Health+ revival, but the company appears to be shaping a more limited health-data experience while keeping the door open to future iterations.

DJI-SkyPixel drone contest attracts 45,000 entries for $200,000 prize

February 5, 2026, 10:16 PM EST. DJI and SkyPixel's 11th Annual Photo & Video Awards have drawn more than 45,000 entries toward a $200,000 prize, across stills and video. The closing date is March 10, 2026, 23:59 CST. The contest, run by DJI's aerial community, positions itself as a global creative hub for amateurs and pros. Judges include Emmy-winning directors and influencers, such as Ryan Hosking, Aerial Director of Photography for Yellowstone, and Alen Tkalčec. The event highlights the Frame Your World theme and has showcased standout work like Take Education on the Ice of Lake Çıldır by İsmail Kaplan. The DJI-SkyPixel collaboration underpins a growing cross-media platform for today's creators.

Artemis II Wet Dress Rehearsal Signals More Work Ahead, March Window Slips

February 5, 2026, 10:06 PM EST. Artemis II's wet dress rehearsal at Kennedy Space Center ran Jan. 31-Feb. 3, revealing both progress and remaining work. A full load of propellants was loaded into the SLS core and upper stages and then replenished, a sign of a disciplined test after early issues. Despite the momentum, NASA shifted the earliest launch for Artemis II to at least March 6, citing gaps that emerged during the exercise. The WDR, designed to validate fueling and operations without liftoff, underscored task lists in vehicle interfaces, ground systems and procedures. Irene Klotz reports on briefings and industry observations.

Artemis II Wet Dress Rehearsal Shows More Work Is Needed

February 5, 2026, 10:00 PM EST. Artemis II's wet dress rehearsal at Kennedy Space Center Jan. 31-Feb. 3 showed progress but still requires work, pushing the crewed lunar flight to at least March 6. Irene Klotz of Aviation Week notes the test carried a full load of propellants and was replenishing fuel in the core and upper stages, a positive sign compared with the Artemis I buildup. But the exercise revealed remaining gaps in ground tests, procedures and overall readiness for the second flight under NASA and the SLS program. The report underscores that while momentum exists, officials say more work is needed before a launch window can be set.

Artemis II Wet Dress Rehearsal Shows More Work Is Needed

February 5, 2026, 9:58 PM EST. NASA's Artemis II program will wait at least until March 6 after a Jan. 31-Feb. 3 wet dress rehearsal at Kennedy Space Center. The test loaded a full supply of propellants into the Space Launch System's core and upper stages and began replenishment, signaling progress toward a crewed lunar flight. Yet officials say the mission still needs work, underscoring gaps in readiness before Artemis II can proceed. The exercise contrasts with the initial launch campaign for the SLS, illustrating that a successful rehearsal does not guarantee a flawless ascent. Data from the test will be reviewed as the team maps the next milestones toward a Moon mission.

Gilat Satellite Networks surges 160% as investors circle amid tensions and growth

February 5, 2026, 9:56 PM EST. Israel's Gilat Satellite Networks has captured investor interest as its stock surges about 160% over the past year, trading near an all-time high around $20. The dual-listed firm, with a market value of about 3.5 billion shekels, wins European and American tenders and builds space-communications infrastructure used by telecoms, airlines and militaries. A June visit by customers to Israel for strategy talks collided with strikes on Iran, leaving guests stranded for a week until airlifted via the Jordan border. CEO Adi Sfadia, speaking by Zoom from Budapest, said the timing of talks abroad was perhaps luck. A string of acquisitions and big contracts have fueled momentum ahead of soon-due quarterly results.

DJI-SkyPixel drone contest attracts 45,000 entries for $200,000 prize under 'Frame Your World' theme

February 5, 2026, 9:54 PM EST. DJI and SkyPixel's 11th Annual Photo & Video Awards have attracted more than 45,000 entries. The contest, open to stills and videos, offers a $200,000 prize fund and closes on March 10, 2026, at 23:59 CST. DJI remains a global leader in consumer drones and backs the event as part of its aerial photography ecosystem. Judges include Emmy-winning directors and industry influencers, such as Ryan Hosking, Aerial Director of Photography for Yellowstone, and Alen Tkalčec. The competition promotes the theme Frame Your World, inviting creators to submit images that reflect personality and place. One highlighted image, Take Education on the Ice of Lake Çıldır by İsmail Kaplan, drew praise for color contrast and captured a moment of a "nature classroom." The event underscores SkyPixel's description of the contest as a global creative hub for imaging.

Google Pixel 10a color lineup leaks ahead of February preorder

February 5, 2026, 9:52 PM EST. Google confirmed the Pixel 10a ahead of a February 18 preorder, but most details remain sparse. Fresh renders, shared by Android Headlines, show four colorways: Lavender (not Indigo, despite appearances), Obsidian, Fog, and Berry. Berry is a vivid red that mirrors the Nest Cam hue; Fog echoes a muted Mint, a mid-cycle Pixel 8 reference. The leaks also tie Berry and Fog to upcoming Pixel Buds 2a colorways. While the visuals fuel interest, most specs reportedly stay unchanged from the Pixel 9a, which starts at $399. If colors don't entice buyers, the older device may offer a cheaper alternative.

DJI-SkyPixel drone contest draws 45,000 entries with $200,000 prize

February 5, 2026, 9:50 PM EST. DJI's SkyPixel annual photo and video contest has drawn more than 45,000 entries, spanning stills and clips. The 11th edition, tied to a $200,000 prize fund, remains open for submissions through March 10, 2026, 23:59 CST. The contest pairs DJI with SkyPixel, a leading aerial-content community, and features judges including Emmy-winning directors and industry influencers. Notables such as Ryan Hosking, Aerial Director of Photography for Yellowstone, and Emmy-winning director Alen Tkalčec weigh in. One highlighted image, "Take Education on the Ice of Lake Çıldır" by İsmail Kaplan, drew praise from Judge Jiang Ping for color contrast; Beijing Film Academy professor Zhu Jiong called it incredible. The event positions itself as a global creative hub for both amateurs and professionals in aerial storytelling.

Hypervision unveils ultra-wide FOV VR optics; Lynx R2 taps its lenses

February 5, 2026, 9:44 PM EST. Hypervision showcased its latest wide-field optical system for VR headsets at United XR Europe, pursuing the challenge of a broader visual field. The company's Lynx R2 project benefits from Hypervision lenses, helping claim the widest FOV among standalone MR headsets. The tester tried a prototype with more than 200° of horizontal FOV, alongside earlier builds. Earlier demonstrations included a 2.1K per eye display paired with a 160° x 120° FOV and large lenses built around BOE's Fast-LCD panels. The impressions described an enveloping image that filled the eyes and extended to the periphery. Hypervision's prototypes underscore a persistent push to expand peripheral vision in consumer VR.

Hypervision's ultra-wide FOV VR optics power Lynx R2 and future headsets

February 5, 2026, 9:42 PM EST. Hypervision is pushing VR optics beyond traditional limits with lenses designed for ultra-wide field of view. At United XR Europe, the startup presented a series of prototypes, culminating in a model claimed to exceed 200° of horizontal FOV. The tests occurred alongside CEO Arthur Rabner's briefings. Earlier iterations used BOE Fast-LCD displays and delivered 160° x 120° FOV with 2.1K per eye resolution, a setup the journalist described as highly immersive. A live video from the event captured the devices in action. Hypervision's objective: tackle VR's long-standing FOV constraint while keeping image clarity and color fidelity. The Lynx R2 standalone mixed reality headset reportedly uses Hypervision-designed lenses, contributing to its claimed widest FOV among MR headsets to date.

Valve revives Steam Machine as living-room console alongside Steam Deck

February 5, 2026, 9:40 PM EST. Valve unveiled the Steam Machine as a living-room console, a sibling to the Steam Deck, in November 2025. The black box measures about 6 by 6 by 6 inches, with a removable faceplate and an LED front strip. Inside: a semi-custom AMD Zen 4 six-core CPU up to 4.8GHz, a semi-custom RDNA3 GPU, 16GB DDR RAM, 8GB GDDR6 VRAM, and 512GB or 2TB storage. It offers DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, four USB-A ports, a USB-C, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6E, and a 2.4GHz dongle for the Steam Controller. Running SteamOS, it uses FSR upscaling for 4K60, though Digital Foundry warns 8GB VRAM may bottleneck some games. Pricing and firm availability are not disclosed; a 2026 release is targeted.

Gilat Satellite Networks surges 160% as investors circle after global deals

February 5, 2026, 9:38 PM EST. Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd built space-communications infrastructure and terminals that connect to all types of satellites, and its stock has risen more than 160% in the last year. The company, dual-listed on Nasdaq and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, trades near an all-time high after a string of acquisitions and large contracts. CEO Adi Sfadia described how a June investor visit to Israel amid heightened tensions with Iran forced talks to move online from Budapest; managers kept the conversation alive while the company hosted a conference in Hungary. With a market value around 3.5 billion shekels, Gilat has benefited from demand in telecoms and defense, ongoing expansions, and a return to profitability after past restructuring following the 2010s. Next quarterly results due soon will show if momentum persists.

Gilat Satellite Networks surges 160% as investors rally

February 5, 2026, 9:36 PM EST. Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd, Tel Aviv-based maker of space communications gear, has seen its stock climb more than 160% in the past year, trading near $20 and valuing the company at about 3.5 billion shekels. The dual-listed firm on Nasdaq and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange has benefited from acquisitions, major contract wins and growth plans across telecom and defense markets. Its technology includes VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) terminals that connect to satellites for remote internet, travel and battlefield communications. CEO Adi Sfadia has steered the business back to profitability after years of losses, via efficiency measures and a shift to profitable deals. An investor meeting in June in Israel was disrupted by regional tensions-airspace closures and missile barrages-leaving guests stranded for a week; discussions moved to Zoom from Budapest. Analysts expect momentum to continue ahead of upcoming quarterly results.

Google Pixel 10a color lineup leaks ahead of February preorder

February 5, 2026, 9:34 PM EST. Google has confirmed the Pixel 10a and a February 18 preorder, but official specs remain scarce. Fresh renders, published by Android Headlines, reveal four colorways: Lavender, Obsidian, Fog, and Berry. Google had teased Lavender previously; in some images it reads as purple rather than Indigo. Obsidian is black, Fog is a light off-white, and Berry is a red shade matching the Nest Cam's marquee color. Fog echoes a Mint hue seen on the Pixel 8 mid-cycle refresh, though it isn't identical. Leaks also suggest the 10a will largely match the Pixel 9a's specs, with the latter still on sale at $399. Google has yet to detail new features, and there's no word on refreshed Buds 2a colors, which leaks tie to the same event.

Google Pixel 10a color lineup leaks ahead of February preorder

February 5, 2026, 9:30 PM EST. Pixel 10a hardware details still largely under wraps after Google's official confirmation of the device ahead of its February 18 preorder. Four colorways have leaked in renders: Lavender (the company's name for the shade despite confusion with Indigo), Obsidian (black), Fog (off-white) and Berry (red, aligned with the Nest Cam color). Android Headlines provided images of the official-looking renders. Berry and Fog have appeared in leaks for other Google devices, including Pixel Buds 2a. Fog's muted greenish tone echoes the Pixel 8 Mint refresh. Specs are expected to be unchanged from the Pixel 9a, which starts at $399; owners may prefer the 9a if color options don't appeal.

Valve's Steam Machine returns as living-room console with AMD hardware

February 5, 2026, 9:28 PM EST. Valve's new Steam Machine reboots as a living-room console sibling to the Steam Deck, announced in November 2025. The box uses a semi-custom AMD Zen 4 six-core CPU up to 4.8GHz and a semi-custom RDNA3 GPU, backed by 16GB RAM and 8GB GDDR6 VRAM, with 512GB or 2TB storage. Shaped as a compact black box with a removable faceplate, it includes a front LED strip and ports for DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, four USBs (two USB-A 2.0, two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1) and USB-C, plus Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.4GHz adapter for the Steam Controller. Valve says most SteamOS titles run at 4K 60FPS using FSR upscaling, though some titles may require lower internal resolution or VRAM considerations; Digital Foundry notes 8GB RAM could be a bottleneck versus PS5/Xbox Series X. Games run on SteamOS.

Valve revives Steam Machine as home-console sibling to Steam Deck

February 5, 2026, 9:26 PM EST. Valve's Steam Machine returns, not as a Valve-backed OEM program but as a home-console sibling to the Steam Deck. Unveiled in November 2025, the box is a compact black chassis with a removable faceplate and an LED strip. It uses a semi-custom AMD Zen 4 six-core CPU up to 4.8GHz and a semi-custom RDNA3 GPU, paired with 16GB DDR RAM, 8GB GDDR6 VRAM and storage options of 512GB or 2TB. Valve says most Steam titles run at 4K 60FPS with FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), though some titles may scale more aggressively or prefer 1080p with VRR. Digital Foundry notes 8GB VRAM could bottleneck vs current consoles. Connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6E, a 2.4GHz dongle for the Steam Controller, DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, four USB-A, and one USB-C. Release is targeted for 2026; pricing remains undisclosed. Games run on SteamOS.

Canva brings Brand Kit into ChatGPT, enabling on-brand AI design

February 5, 2026, 9:22 PM EST. San Francisco, February 5, 2026 – Canva embeds its Brand Kit into AI tools, letting ChatGPT-generated outputs become on-brand visuals. The update ties a company's fonts, colors and logos to AI conversations, reducing manual cleanup and accelerating production. Canva says the rollout follows a prior debut in Claude and reinforces its position as the visual brain behind leading LLMs. Its MCP Server has produced over 12 million designs across ChatGPT, Claude and Microsoft Copilot. Anwar Haneef, Canva's GM, says the move turns text into on-brand visuals and strengthens AI workflows with Brand Kit intelligence. The trend points to AI-powered design that speeds work while preserving brand integrity.

Canva brings on-brand design into AI assistants with Brand Kit integration in ChatGPT

February 5, 2026, 9:12 PM EST. Canva is expanding its role in AI-powered work, embedding brand intelligence directly into chat-based design. Beginning now, ChatGPT users can generate visuals that align with a company's Brand Kit, turning text conversations into on-brand outputs. The move follows Canva's debut in Claude and positions the company as the visual brain across leading LLMs. Canva's design model, Canva AI, and the MCP Server have already produced millions of designs in ChatGPT, Claude and Microsoft Copilot. Anwar Haneef says the soul of a brand is its visual identity and that Canva connects brand assets to daily AI workflows, delivering consistent visuals at speed. 2026 marks a shift from static brand guidelines to interactive, workflow-driven design.

Canva embeds Brand Kit into ChatGPT to deliver on-brand AI design

February 5, 2026, 9:02 PM EST. Canva is expanding its role in AI-enabled design by embedding its Brand Kit into ChatGPT and other large-language models. The feature lets ChatGPT users generate visuals that are automatically on-brand, drawing from Canva's brand fonts, colors and logos and linking to Canva's Brand Kit. Canva says the update leverages its Canva Design Model and the MCP Server, which have produced more than 12 million designs across Claude, Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT. Anwar Haneef, Canva's GM of Ecosystem, said the integration turns brand identity into a living part of AI workflows. The move follows a prior rollout in Claude and signals Canva's aim to be the visual layer across AI tools, enabling faster, consistent design in client decks, social posts and posters.

Apple M5 Ultra hints surface as MacBook Pro lineup eyes first Ultra chip

February 5, 2026, 8:54 PM EST. MacWorld reports that the iOS 26.3 release candidate code reveals references to an upcoming M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips in development. The code uses model numbers T6051 and T6052 with platform names H17C and H17D; the '17' marks the M5 family, while 'C' and 'D' point to Max and Ultra. Notably, the code lacks an 'S' for Pro. If valid, the findings indicate Apple is testing a Mac with an M5 Ultra chip. Apple skipped an M4 Ultra for the Mac Studio in 2024; the M3 Ultra remains the fastest available. Analysts see two possibilities: the references point to different variants, or Apple has renamed the lines. Either way, an M5 Ultra MacBook Pro would be a first once launched alongside the macOS 26.3 update, likely next week.

SpaceX acquires xAI; analysts eye potential Tesla merger as Musk builds AI-space empire

February 5, 2026, 8:52 PM EST. SpaceX has reportedly acquired xAI, pairing rocket and space-based computing with advanced AI. The move would set the stage for a broader consolidation across Musk's ventures, with analysts saying a Tesla merger could follow in the next 12 to 18 months. Dan Ives of Wedbush said a tie-up into the SpaceX/xAI umbrella is plausible, arguing the AI ecosystem could blend space and Earth-based computing. Supporters describe potential synergies from Tesla's Robotaxi and Full Self-Driving with SpaceX's Starlink network and orbital data centers under xAI's models, including Grok. The plan also raises capital questions: xAI's high burn rate would be cushioned by SpaceX's valuation and private funding, while regulatory comments on Orbital Data Centers surface considerations.

SpaceX taps Chinese solar suppliers in space-based computing push, spotlighting China's solar chain

February 5, 2026, 8:46 PM EST. SpaceX has begun sounding out Chinese solar suppliers in recent weeks, seeking partners for a plan to run data centres on constant solar energy from space. The talks, not yet resulting in orders, sparked a rally in shares of several solar firms before sentiment cooled. Analysts say the approach underscores the competitiveness of China's solar sector and has ignited public interest in space-based photovoltaics-collecting solar power in orbit and beaming it to Earth for data centres. However, multiple technical routes remain under exploration, and investors are cautioned against hype. Public acknowledgments came from TCL's Zhonghuan, GCL Technology, and Jinko Solar; Longi and Maxwell are also circulating in market chatter. China expects up to 240 gigawatts of new solar capacity by 2026. Jinko warned the venture is in early stages with no revenue projections.

Apple releases watchOS 11.6.2 with emergency services fix in Australia

February 5, 2026, 8:42 PM EST. Apple has released watchOS 11.6.2 for Apple Watches not yet on watchOS 26, targeting a specific connectivity bug affecting emergency services in Australia. The update covers multiple models, including Series 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, SE 2, Ultra and Ultra 2. Apple says the release contains important bug fixes and is recommended for all users, though details beyond the Australian issue aren't disclosed. The fix arrives about six months after watchOS 11.6.1. Users still on older versions are advised to install the update sooner rather than later.

Short-seller questions IonQ revenue disclosures and government ties; stock falls

February 5, 2026, 8:38 PM EST. IonQ faced renewed scrutiny after a short-seller report by Wolfpack Research alleging that the company misrepresented the share of its revenue that comes from organic demand and that some revenue depended on backdoor earmarks in the Pentagon budget later canceled after 2025. Wolfpack is short IonQ and could profit from a price drop. IonQ rejected the report, calling it false and misrepresentative, and citing its government relationships as a strength ahead of its planned acquisition of SkyWater Technology. The stock slid more than 11% intraday and finished down about 8% after the report. The episode underscores ongoing questions about quantum computing commercialization, with few pilots moving beyond demonstration and debates over which tech will win in the long run.

New site RentAHuman.ai aims to rent human labor to AI agents

February 5, 2026, 8:32 PM EST. RentAHuman.ai, founded by software engineer Alexander Liteplo, launches a platform for AI agents to search, hire and pay humans for real-world tasks. Liteplo says the site lists hundreds of profiles and, after launch, promotes a growing pool of renters, including an OnlyFans model. AI bots can hire directly or post task bounties; payments flow in crypto via stablecoins or other methods. Tasks vary from package pickups to product testing and even promotional stunts, with payouts ranging from $1 to $100. The site also promotes a MCP interface to let AI bots access web data. Critics question the platform's ability to connect workers efficiently and warn of potential labor exploitation as automation encroaches on everyday chores.

Samsung may skip Qi2 built-in magnets on Galaxy S26 Ultra, magnetic case likely required

February 5, 2026, 8:30 PM EST. Samsung may skip built-in magnets for Qi2 on the Galaxy S26 Ultra, pushing the feature behind a magnetic case, per Ice Universe who cited independent sources with 100% accuracy. That stance echoes earlier leaks; other rumors had claimed the phone would include Qi2 magnets in the chassis. The trade-offs center on compatibility with the S Pen and the reverse-wireless-charging system. Qi2 magnets can disrupt the phone's digitizer and interfere with Samsung's stylus, so Samsung may keep the S26 Ultra magnet-free and rely on magnetic accessories. The decision stands even as rivals like Google and Apple move toward different magnetic ecosystems. Until official specs arrive, the Galaxy S26 Ultra's wireless charging remains case-dependent.

Valve delays Steam Machine launch amid memory and storage shortages

February 5, 2026, 8:28 PM EST. Valve has pushed back the Steam Machine launch to the first half of 2026 due to industry-wide memory and storage shortages and has yet to set pricing or a firm launch date. The company also delayed the Steam Frame VR headset and controller. The shortages have intensified as the AI industry seizes more memory chips and hard drives. The Steam Machine, a cube-like PC powered by a semi-custom AMD CPU/GPU, promises about six times the horsepower of the Steam Deck and 4K at 60 FPS with FSR. Testing shows most titles run well at 4K/60, though some require more upscaling; a few may fare better at 1080p. Valve noted easy access to the SSD and memory for upgrades. The Steam Frame is a wireless standalone VR headset for PC and Android games.

Rave Racer to make home console debut 31 years after arcade launch

February 5, 2026, 8:26 PM EST. Namco's arcade racer Rave Racer is finally coming to home consoles, 31 years after its 1995 debut. Revealed during today's Nintendo Direct, the game joins Bandai Namco's Ridge Racer lineup via Hamster's Arcade Archives on February 26, 2026. The title had long circulated only as an arcade unit and in a limited Arcade 1Up cabinet. Hamster also announced Console Archives, a new series bringing classic titles like Cool Boarders and Doraemon to modern systems, with more titles planned later this year. The move broadens access to early arcade-to-console racing, and retro fans can expect further PS1 and Famicom releases under the new label.

Google hints at AirDrop-style expansion for Android via Quick Share extension

February 5, 2026, 8:22 PM EST. Google is expanding Quick Share, turning its Android rival to AirDrop into a full, updatable APK via a new Play Store extension. The change lets Quick Share function beyond Play Services and should speed updates across devices. It already supports a limited set of Android phones, with broader rollout expected as AirDrop comes to more devices this year. Apple's AirDrop cross-compatibility remains limited by iOS options, such as 'Everyone for 10 minutes.' Google can't access Apple's contact-based sharing. The company has hinted that a March Pixel Drops could accompany other changes, including updates to location privacy and At a Glance.

Android expands AirDrop-style sharing as Google opens Quick Share beyond Pixel

February 5, 2026, 8:18 PM EST. Google is expanding native AirDrop-style sharing on Android, starting with Pixel 9 and 9 Pro and targeting a broader rollout to manufacturers such as Samsung and Nothing. Framed as a platform-level upgrade rather than a workaround, Quick Share aims for secure, seamless cross-device transfers anytime, between Android and iOS/macOS. Initially, Pixel 10 exclusivity limited cross-device use to discoverable devices; the company says the feature now expands beyond pixels. At a Taipei briefing, Google VP Eric Kay confirmed the project is not built as a temporary fix and will be extended to more Android phones. OEMs have signaled interest ahead of events like MWC and Galaxy Unpacked. If successful, this could turn interoperability into the default mode for mobile sharing.

QuantumScape opens Eagle Line pilot for solid-state EV batteries, outlines licensing blueprint

February 5, 2026, 8:16 PM EST. QuantumScape unveiled its Eagle Line in San Jose, a highly automated pilot production line for solid-state batteries. Using the Cobra process, the company builds a ceramic separator to enable a lithium-metal anode-eliminating liquid electrolytes and bulky graphite. QSE-5 cells posted energy density of 844 Wh/L (301 Wh/kg), potentially lifting a typical EV's range from about 249 to 311 miles without a larger pack. Charging speeds improve too: 10% to 80% in under 15 minutes, and capacity retention at 95% after 1,000 cycles. The ceramic separator enhances safety by reducing flammability and tolerating higher temperatures. QuantumScape says Eagle Line will serve as a blueprint for licensing, letting other makers scale to gigawatt-hours while aiming to reduce current costs (roughly $400-$800 per kWh).

Android Auto 16.1 stabilizes steering wheel controls as 16.2 beta hints at radio, A/C work

February 5, 2026, 8:14 PM EST. Google's Android Auto 16.1 has rolled out stably, restoring the media player redesign after 16.0 briefly disrupted steering wheel controls. The update brings no new user features, but it fixes the control issue by reintroducing the earlier UI. The beta line continues with Android Auto 16.2, which shows no outward changes yet but reveals behind-the-scenes work via APK Insight. In teardown, Google strings hint at ongoing refinements for radio station displays and A/C controls, labeled Stations and A/C OFF. There's still no rollout date for these features. If you're on 16.1, you may have seen fixes for steering wheel controls; some chatter mentions Gemini support as a possible future addition.

UM System board approves AI degrees for MU, UMKC

February 5, 2026, 8:12 PM EST. COLUMBIA – The UM System Board of Curators approved new AI degree programs, including MU's Master of Science and Ph.D. and UMKC's Master of Science. The Academic Affairs Office will now submit them to the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development for final approval. The move reflects rapid growth of AI across industries; Stanford data show 78% of organizations used AI in 2024. MU says the programs couple rigorous AI foundations with applied problem solving for industry and research, while UMKC frames its MS as a workforce-ready credential. MU's Yi Shang and UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal stressed Missouri's leadership in AI education and an economy shaped by AI.

HONMA x Huawei Watch GT 6 Pro goes live in Philippines with early-bird deal

February 5, 2026, 8:04 PM EST. HONMA and Huawei are rolling out the HONMA x Huawei Watch GT 6 Pro in the Philippines via an early-bird offer. Buyers on Huawei's official site can reserve the golf-focused smartwatch and receive up to ₱2,000 in vouchers plus freebies worth ₱5,664; a second ₱1,000 storewide voucher is available through February 28. The deal also offers 0% financing for up to 24 months. The HONMA Edition features an all-black look with a gold-and-black bezel, sapphire glass and titanium alloy construction, and carries access to 17,000+ golf courses, AI Caddie and shot-distance mode. Battery life runs to about 21 days; ECG health analysis remains, with seamless iOS and Android compatibility via Huawei's ecosystem.

Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase reveals new and classic titles for Switch 2 and Switch

February 5, 2026, 8:02 PM EST. Nintendo's latest Direct Partner Showcase reveals a lineup of new and classic titles for the Nintendo Switch 2 and the original Nintendo Switch. The event underscored online features, including GameShare and GameChat. GameShare lets a game be playable only during the sharing session; access ends when the session ends. For GameChat, players need an Internet connection, a Nintendo Account and a Nintendo Switch Online membership; during the open-access period, GameChat works without a membership, with country-based terms. After March 31, 2026, a Switch Online membership becomes required for GameChat. Some accessories and services are sold separately. Details are on Nintendo support pages.

Big Tech CEOs push back on AI fears as software stocks slide

February 5, 2026, 7:58 PM EST. Big Tech CEOs at the Cisco AI Summit pushed back on worries that AI will erase the competitive moats surrounding established software firms, even as shares of Palantir and Oracle fell about 12% in recent sessions. Nvidia's Jensen Huang called the notion that tools would be replaced by AI illogical, arguing enterprises will rely on tools from platforms such as ServiceNow and SAP. Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai and Arm's Rene Haas echoed the view, saying AI acts as an enabling tool and some software companies will seize the opportunity. Google Cloud revenue rose 48% year over year to $17.7 billion, with customers embedding Gemini in workflows. Analysts caution data governance and security standards create entry barriers, leaving it too early to declare winners.

Pixel 10a renders show four colors ahead of official reveal

February 5, 2026, 7:56 PM EST. Google has confirmed the Pixel 10a will launch this month, with a full reveal in a few weeks. A video showing a blue colorway surfaced, and Android Headlines published renders of four additional hues said to come from Google's marketing assets. The images depict light gray with a greenish tint (likely Fog), dark gray (Obsidian), a lavender-tinged blue (Lavender), and a bright reddish pink (Berry). Official color names have not been confirmed. The leaks align with prior rumors that the budget Pixel would ship in multiple hues as part of its market push.

Apple releases watchOS 11.6.2 with fix for emergency-services cellular connection in Australia

February 5, 2026, 7:52 PM EST. Apple released watchOS 11.6.2 for the Apple Watch Series 6 through Series 10, the Apple Watch SE 2 and Ultra/Ultra 2. Apple says the update contains important bug fixes and is recommended for all users, but the release notes offer few specifics. The version will appear only on models not already updated to watchOS 26 or later. An update note later clarifies that the release addresses a cellular network issue when establishing a connection to emergency services in Australia. The company did not provide detailed changes beyond the line items in the notes, and reviewers should expect a standard, behind-the-scenes maintenance release rather than a feature upgrade.

Ford's $30,000 EV pickup hinges on giant castings to cut parts and cost

February 5, 2026, 7:50 PM EST. Ford is betting its EV future on the Universal Electric Vehicle Platform, debuting in a $30,000 midsize pickup. CEO Jim Farley outlined a plan to radically simplify manufacturing by using large aluminum unicastings that condense more than 146 parts into two, enabling an assembly-tree approach at the Louisville Assembly Plant. The approach echoes Tesla's gigacastings and is being adopted by Volvo's EX60 for the rear structure. Ford says the platform will use about 20% fewer parts and 25% fewer fasteners, and engineers are chasing aero efficiency to boost range. Doug Field, Ford's chief EV, digital and design officer, says a 0.01 reduction in drag (Cd) saves roughly $25 of battery energy. The project follows Ford's cancellation of some earlier EVs, including the F-150 Lightning, heightening the stakes.

Altman slams Anthropic Claude ads; calls them dishonest

February 5, 2026, 7:46 PM EST. Anthropic released four Super Bowl ads satirizing OpenAI users, including a chatbot giving mom advice and a faux dating site, and a six-pack quest that ends with a height-boosting insoles pitch. The campaign, pitched as critiques of OpenAI and its plan to run ads with ChatGPT, drew a sharp response from Sam Altman, who on X described the work as dishonest and warned the rival's framing. He argued that an ad-supported tier would fund free access to ChatGPT for millions. OpenAI countered that ads would be separate, labeled, and would never influence a chat, though it noted they might appear at the bottom of answers in relevant conversations. Altman also charged that Anthropic sells an expensive product to the rich; Claude itself has a free tier too.

Huang: AI won't replace software; Microsoft, Shopify among beaten-down SaaS buys

February 5, 2026, 7:44 PM EST. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang argues AI will not replace software; it will augment it, running atop existing platforms. His remarks at the Cisco AI Summit push back on the idea that the software industry is in decline. The broader market remains uneasy: the iShares Expanded Tech-Software ETF is down about 21% year-to-date, with the sharpest losses in the last week. Some investors have questioned whether AI disrupts software at all, a debate sparked by quotes from Apollo Global Management's John Zito. Still, bulls point to beaten-down names like Microsoft, whose Azure cloud and diversified software stack keep it growth-ready despite a 25% pullback from its peak. Shopify is cited as another laggard, with a third stock referenced but not named in this excerpt.

Apple expands subscription lineup amid longer device lifespans in 2026

February 5, 2026, 7:42 PM EST. Apple is tilting from pure hardware sales toward subscriptions as devices last longer and per-unit hardware revenue declines. The company is broadening into services and newer products, such as Creator Studio, signaling a willingness to turn more purchases into ongoing commitments. iCloud storage now bundles into iCloud+ after upgrading from the 5GB free tier, adding features like Private Relay, Hide My Email, and HomeKit Secure Video storage. Monthly tiers run 50GB $0.99, 200GB $2.99, 2TB $9.99, 6TB $29.99, and 12TB $59.99. Apple's media suite-Music, TV+, Arcade-pairs with bundles: Apple One Individual $19.95; Family $25.95; Premier $37.95 (adds Fitness+, News+, and 2TB iCloud+). AppleCare One bundles are another component. The trend underscores a broader shift to ongoing subscriptions across Apple.

Tesla filings hint at possible new Roadster logos

February 5, 2026, 7:40 PM EST. Tesla has filed trademark applications and design documents that suggest a possible refresh of the Roadster branding. The filings, submitted to patent or trademark offices in multiple markets, depict new emblem sketches and wordmarks that differ from the current Roadster logo. People familiar with branding say such filings often precede product updates or rebranding, though Tesla has not confirmed any schedule. Analysts warn that filings alone do not guarantee a new design or a production run. The move could align with a broader push toward more distinct EV branding as rivals sharpen models. If confirmed, the new logos would accompany any future Roadster announcements or prototypes, and could affect how owners and enthusiasts visualize Tesla's flagship sports car.

Lionsgate names Kathleen Grace as first Chief AI Officer

February 5, 2026, 7:36 PM EST. In a move to shape AI strategy across its operations, Lionsgate appoints Kathleen Grace, formerly Vermillio's chief strategy officer, as the studio's first Chief AI Officer. She will lead AI strategy and execution, work with senior leaders including Vice Chairman Michael Burns, and help protect IP while enabling efficiencies in production, marketing, distribution and administration. Grace reports to CEO Jon Feltheimer and joins Lionsgate's senior decision-making team. The appointment follows Lionsgate's partnership with Runway to train a proprietary AI model for filmmakers. At Vermillio, Grace focused on tracking, authenticating and monetizing AI usages of content creators' work. She previously led pilots at New Form and helped build YouTube Spaces programs, underscoring Lionsgate's entrepreneurial, forward-looking culture.

Amazon posts revenue gain but profit misses estimates as AWS drives growth

February 5, 2026, 7:34 PM EST. Amazon reported fourth-quarter net income of $21.2 billion, or $1.95 per share, on revenue of $213.4 billion, up 14% for the quarter ended Dec. 31. Analysts polled by FactSet expected $1.97 a share on $211.4 billion in sales. Earnings missed by a cent; revenue beat. AWS – the cloud computing arm that provides internet-based computing power and storage – rose 24% to $35.6 billion, topping the $34.9 billion consensus and marking the fastest growth in 13 quarters. The company also said it would lift capital spending to about $200 billion this year from $125 billion, funding bets on AI, robots, semiconductors and satellites. Shares fell roughly 9% in after-hours trading.

LANL opens Center for Quantum Computing to unify national lab research

February 5, 2026, 7:32 PM EST. Los Alamos National Laboratory has launched the Center for Quantum Computing to unify its research across national security, quantum computing science, algorithms and workforce development. The center will bring together about three dozen quantum researchers and support programs such as the DARPA Quantum Benchmarking Initiative, the DOE Quantum Science Center and the NNSA Advanced Simulation and Computing program, including its Beyond Moore's Law project. LANL will host a 10-week Quantum Computing Summer School for up to 25 undergraduate and graduate students. Lab leadership says the center will connect LANL's quantum strengths with DOE and state initiatives, fostering collaboration and advancing U.S. quantum capabilities. DOE's broader quantum push includes a funding package worth $625 million for National Quantum Information Science Centers.

ESA coordinates satellite reentries to collect rare reentry data

February 5, 2026, 7:28 PM EST. ESA will observe two Cluster satellites, Samba and Tango, as they reenter the atmosphere over the remote South Pacific on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1, 2026, using a plane to capture first-hand data. The maneuver, described by Beatriz Jilete as extreme but worthwhile, aims to gather measurements of heating, breakup, and surviving materials to inform design-for-demise satellite concepts. Reentry data are notoriously hard to collect because observations require proximity to 80 km altitude and remote ocean locations. By adjusting trajectories to bring the two reentries within a ~24-hour window, the mission also allows refueling and rest between events, while advancing observation of reentry and reducing space debris risks.

AMD hints at 2027 launch for next-gen Xbox; no official confirmation

February 5, 2026, 7:26 PM EST. During its earnings call, AMD CEO Lisa Su said development of Microsoft's next-gen Xbox, powered by an AMD semi-custom System-on-Chip, is progressing well to support a 2027 launch. The comments stop short of a confirmed release date, and analysts note RAM shortages and other supply challenges could shape timing. A portion of the transcript also cites that next-gen Xbox ramping is cited for 2027, suggesting officials are targeting that year at a minimum. The call also references Valve's AMD-powered Steam Machine as on track this year, underscoring broader momentum for AMD's hardware ambitions. Observers should await formal confirmations, with timing potentially aligning with Xbox's 25th anniversary mid-November.

Anthropic's Amodei criticizes U.S. chip exports at Davos, targets Nvidia

February 5, 2026, 7:24 PM EST. At Davos, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei criticized the U.S. decision to relax export controls on high-end GPUs, targeting regulators and chipmakers including Nvidia. He warned the policy could backfire on national security, arguing the U.S. remains years ahead of China in chip production and urging against shipping such technology. Amodei likened policy to selling nuclear weapons parts, underscoring the stakes as AI models approach cognitive capabilities. Nvidia is a principal partner and investor in Anthropic, supplying GPUs that power its models and facing the same policy pressures. The remarks come amid a deep technology partnership and Nvidia's reported investment of up to $10 billion in Anthropic, set against the Davos backdrop of policy debate.

Nothing Ear (a) wireless earbuds drop to $58.99, lowest price yet

February 5, 2026, 7:18 PM EST. Mashable reports that the Nothing Ear (a) wireless earbuds are available for $58.99 on Feb. 5, 2026, down from $109, a 46% discount and the lowest price seen to date. The deal, available through Amazon, is subject to change after publication. The article positions the Nothing Ear (a) as a strong alternative to Apple's AirPods. It also notes an unusual feature: ChatGPT support for chats in the ear. The report is by Brittany Vincent.

ICE, CBP face-recognition app cannot verify identities, WIRED reports

February 5, 2026, 7:14 PM EST. Analysts say Mobile Fortify, the DHS app used by immigration agents across the United States, is not designed to reliably identify people in the streets and cannot provide a positive identification. The facial recognition technology (identifying a person from an image of their face) is launched in spring 2025 to determine or verify identities during federal operations, linking the rollout to an executive order aimed at expedited enforcement. Records reviewed by WIRED show the tool is described as a means to generate leads, not confirm identity, and that enforcement often targets US citizens and bystanders. The setup involved dismantling centralized privacy reviews and loosening department-wide limits on facial recognition after a Heritage Foundation lawyer overseeing Project 2025 joined DHS. Privacy advocates warn about nonconsensual face prints and rapid street encounters with biometric capture, including scans hundreds of miles from the border.

Hardware-centric camera push fuels Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G's smartphone photography

February 5, 2026, 7:10 PM EST. Smartphone photography shifts back toward hardware. The Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G Series uses a 200MP HPE sensor in a 1/1.4-inch format with an f/1.65 lens, delivering more light and finer detail before any software processing. The 200MasterPixel system supports up to 4× optical-level in-sensor zoom, improving cityscapes, architecture and travel shots. In daylight and low light, the larger sensor yields cleaner images with reduced noise and better shadow detail, reducing reliance on aggressive post-processing. Portraits benefit from high-resolution depth data, sharp edge detection and natural bokeh. The handset bundles Dynamic Shots 2.0, AI Creativity Assistant tools (including AI Remove Reflection and AI Beautify), and direct sharing to Instagram/WhatsApp, framing a practical, flagship-level camera experience.

Quantum Machines to Establish R&D Hub at Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park

February 5, 2026, 7:08 PM EST. Quantum Machines said it will establish an R&D hub at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park to advance their work on quantum machines. The project aims to accelerate development of quantum hardware and accompanying software ecosystems through collaboration with academia and industry partners. The company did not disclose a timeline or investment figures. The move underscores growing activity in the Midwest around quantum computing and microelectronics, with the park serving as a focal point for startups and research groups. Officials described the plan as a step to attract talent, accelerate prototypes, and deepen industry ties in the region.

Apple's M5 in iPad Pro 2025 review tests show solid performance and graphics gains

February 5, 2026, 7:06 PM EST. Oliver tests the 256GB 11-inch iPad Pro with the M5, noting solid gains over the M4 era and a favorable comparison to the M4 Mac Mini and iPhone 17 Pro. In Assassin's Creed Mirage, the game runs a steady 30fps with maxed settings at a 1210×682 internal resolution using MetalFX, producing a letterboxed output on the display. GRID Legends achieves a stable 60fps in Performance mode, preserving most effects but with no screen-space reflections; VRR is not fully content-driven on iPad. The M5 handles target frame rates well, though the fixed-refresh panel means dips are perceptible during heavy sequences. Overall, the chip pushes mobile graphics forward, with the 11-inch model delivering strong efficiency and notable improvements.

SpaceX seeks up to a million orbital datacenter satellites as FCC advances public-comment phase

February 5, 2026, 7:04 PM EST. SpaceX has asked the Federal Communications Commission to authorize as many as one million satellites for an orbital datacenter constellation. The FCC's Space Bureau accepted the filing for public comment five days after SpaceX submitted its application on January 30, signaling the start of a near-term review. Harvard astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell warned that the plan would push Earth's orbital traffic toward a Kessler Syndrome-like level, with the constellation proposed in multiple shells between 500 km and 2,000 km. He noted current debris and satellites, including Starlink, already crowd the sky. Critics say fleet-wide failed-satellite recovery will require tow-truck assets, a capability SpaceX and others are beginning to develop. Musk tied the project to his broader, sci-fi vision, separate from the FCC filing.

Google launches dedicated Android Canary subreddit for test builds

February 5, 2026, 7:02 PM EST. Google has created a dedicated Reddit community for its Android Canary program, moving announcements from r/Android_Beta to r/Android_Canary. The company says the move reflects growing adoption and aims to facilitate feedback and discussion among testers. The update does not alter onboarding or OTA processes. Android Canary replaces Developer Previews and remains targeted at developers wanting to explore the latest Android APIs. First builds are installed with the Android Flash Tool; devices then enroll in the Canary for Pixel channel and receive ongoing OTA updates. There have been eight Canary releases to date, but Google warns features in Canary may not always appear in a stable release. The program remains experimental and not for daily use.

NVIDIA leads AI rally; SMCI trades at a discount despite strong results

February 5, 2026, 7:00 PM EST. NVIDIA remains Wall Street's AI darling, backed by steady revenue and cloud GPU demand, but trades at a forward P/E of 37.35, well above the Semiconductor – General average of 22.67. By contrast, SMCI trades at a forward P/E of 15.83, below the Computer-Storage Devices average of 28.9, suggesting valuation support. In Q2 FY2026, SMCI's net sales jumped 123% year over year to $12.7 billion, driven by its Data Center Building Block Solutions (DCBBS), which bundles servers, networking, storage, cooling, software and services. Management projects Q3 FY2026 revenue at least $12.3 billion and full-year net sales of at least $40 billion. But margins softened-gross margin fell to 6.3% from 11.8% a year ago-highlighting profitability risks. Investors should weigh growth prospects against margins and valuation while staying wary of NVIDIA's potential volatility.

Apple TV and Peacock launch discounted streaming bundle ahead of Super Bowl LX

February 5, 2026, 6:58 PM EST. Apple and NBCUniversal have unveiled a discounted bundle pairing Apple TV with Peacock Premium, timed for Super Bowl LX. New subscribers can get Apple TV and Peacock Premium together for $14.99 per month, or Peacock Premium Plus for $19.99, a savings of more than 30% off the combined price. Peacock is the official streaming home of Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8, with live game access and pregame programming from NBC. The offer bundles access to the two platforms' libraries of originals, movies and sports. Beyond the game, subscribers gain NBA and Sunday Night Football coverage, plus Olympic rights for 2026, and continued access to NBC/Bravo shows and Peacock Originals; Apple TV adds series such as Slow Horses, Silo, Severance, Shrinking, The Morning Show and Ted Lasso.

Lionsgate names Kathleen Grace as first Chief AI Officer to steer generative AI strategy

February 5, 2026, 6:56 PM EST. Kathleen Grace has been named Lionsgate's first chief AI officer, reporting to CEO Jon Feltheimer to guide the studio's use of generative AI in filmmaking. Grace comes from Vermillio, where she was chief strategy officer, and will work with senior leaders to support filmmakers, streamline production, marketing, distribution and IP protection. "Kathleen understands the AI ecosystem from creators' and IP holders' perspectives," Feltheimer said, adding that Grace will help the company grow with its talent partners, establish safeguards and pursue new strategies. Lionsgate earlier disclosed a partnership with Runway in Sept. 2024 to train a proprietary AI model for filmmakers, signaling a broader push by studios toward AI. Grace said she looks forward to expanding the creative palette for storytellers while navigating the complex tech landscape.

Google previews Pixel 10a with no camera bump ahead of Feb. 18 launch

February 5, 2026, 6:54 PM EST. Google posted a 15-second YouTube teaser of the Pixel 10a, the successor to the Pixel 9a, ahead of its Feb. 18 launch. The video hints at a flatter, possibly flush camera module. Pricing is expected near $500, with Google already listing the Pixel 9a at $400. Specs likely mirror the Pixel 9a: 8GB RAM/128GB or 12GB/256GB, and a Tensor G4 chip rather than the G5. Supply shortages could limit model options. Google anchors the device on affordability and Gemini AI features, such as Magic Cue, which suggests actions across apps, and Help me edit, which uses Gemini to edit photos via text prompts. The Pixel 10a is pitched as an AI-forward, budget midrange option.

Best Buy drops Google Pixel 10 128GB unlocked to $291.99, over $500 off

February 5, 2026, 6:52 PM EST. Best Buy lists a 128GB Pixel 10 in excellent unlocked condition for $291.99 shipped, about $507 off the $799 list price. The Obsidian variant appears on sale and the deal seems time-limited. Amazon currently charges $649 for the same unlocked model. The Pixel 10 uses Google Tensor G5, features a triple rear camera with a 5x telephoto lens, Night Sight, and IP68 water resistance. Other Pixel deals this week include $150 off the base model, $200 off the Pro/XL, and $300 off the Pro Fold. The seller notes the device is restored to factory settings with a 1-year warranty.

BLOK January winners tip shift toward AI computing and high-performance infrastructure

February 5, 2026, 6:50 PM EST. January shows BLOK's top holdings shifting from crypto to high-performance computing and AI infrastructure. As of January 30, five names led gains: IREN surged 42.28% after a cloud capacity deal for AI workloads, signaling data centers' value for machine learning. FIGR rose 39.28% on rising institutional use of the Provenance Blockchain for home equity lending and private market trades. APLD gained 38.17% as it positions to support high-density power loads for the generative AI boom. BKKT jumped 33.37% amid growing regulated crypto activity and custody/trading services. WT climbed 32.90% on surging tokenization interest. The moves show investors value platforms that blend crypto with broader financial infrastructure.

Nintendo's Virtual Boy Classics to Switch Online; Labo VR compatibility uncertain

February 5, 2026, 6:40 PM EST. Nintendo will bring Virtual Boy Classics to Switch Online + Expansion Pack on February 17, 2026, reviving a sparse 1990s library for new audiences. The games require a stereoscopic 3D headset to play. Nintendo sells two official headsets: a plastic Virtual Boy for $99.99 and a cheaper cardboard model for $24.99. A third option-Labo VR, the DIY cardboard headset from 2019-may work, but Nintendo says use of Labo VR is not officially supported. A company rep previously suggested Labo VR compatibility, creating conflicting statements that Nintendo later clarified. The Virtual Boy launch marks the first official Nintendo acknowledgment of the IP with a new product since its 1996 discontinuation. Availability is limited to subscribers of Switch Online + Expansion Pack.

AI vibe-coding test exposes software stocks' disruption risk

February 5, 2026, 6:36 PM EST. CNBC and Deidre Bosa used Anthropic's Claude Code to vibe-code a clone of Monday.com, testing how AI tools might threaten software stocks. The exercise shows that the most exposed names sit on top of the work-Atlassian, Adobe, HubSpot, Zendesk, and Smartsheet-not core to business processes. Systems of record like Salesforce may be safer but are not immune. They found a working project-management dashboard in minutes, then a calendar and email-connect features; the AI even surfaced reminders for personal tasks. Cost was modest: under $15 in compute credits for the run, with potential declines as data centers expand. Analysts say cybersecurity names like CrowdStrike and Palo Alto are harder to disrupt due to network effects, while stocks tied to core data remain more resilient. Investors could separate need-to-haves from nice-to-haves.

Samsung may skip a compact Galaxy Tab S12 as S12+ and S12 Ultra go big

February 5, 2026, 6:32 PM EST. Samsung's next flagship tablets appear to tilt toward large screens. Fresh IMEI sightings point to the Galaxy Tab S12+ and Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra with model numbers SM-X846 and SM-X946, while a standard Galaxy Tab S12 may be skipped. The absence of a smaller variant hints at a shift away from compact flagships in favor of big-screen power. If confirmed, the move signals a broader strategy targeting multitaskers who work, create, and consume media on oversized displays. Early signs of a broader ecosystem refresh appear with Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. Launch timing is pegged for late summer 2026, possibly at a Galaxy Unpacked alongside foldables. Specs are unconfirmed, but the Ultra would push tablet tech closer to laptop performance; the Plus remains very large, but more manageable.

Samsung may skip compact Galaxy Tab S12 as it bets on large-screen tablets

February 5, 2026, 6:30 PM EST. Fresh IMEI listings point to the Galaxy Tab S12+ and Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra for late 2026, with no sign of a smaller Galaxy Tab S12. The models carry SM-X846 and SM-X946 numbers, matching Samsung's Plus and Ultra naming. If true, Samsung would skip a compact flagship again after the Tab S10 line. The shift signals a push toward big-screen tablets aimed at power users for multitasking, creative work and media, rather than broad size coverage. Concurrently, listings tied to the Galaxy Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2 hint at a broader ecosystem refresh ahead of an anticipated Galaxy Unpacked event in July. The Ultra is expected to push laptop-like specs with expansive displays; the Plus remains a larger but slightly more approachable option. A compact premium Android tablet may be fading from Samsung's strategy.

Quantum computing speeds genome mapping, enabling faster disease diagnosis

February 5, 2026, 6:26 PM EST. Researchers from the Indian Institutes of Technology and IBM Research have advanced a hybrid quantum-classical approach to de novo genome assembly. The team uses gate-based quantum computing to tackle Hamiltonian and Eulerian path problems in genome-assembly graphs, applying a Higher-Order Binary Optimization (HOBO) formulation with the Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE). A bitstring recovery mechanism sharpens the search. In tests, the method outperforms several classical optimizers and could speed up analysis as quantum hardware matures and noise declines. For reference, assembling a 5,000-base genome on a laptop takes about 10 minutes; the human genome (~3.2×10^6 bp) can take up to 48 hours on a supercomputer, suggesting meaningful gains ahead.

Super Bowl AI ads spark clash among OpenAI, Anthropic, Gemini and Amazon Alexa+

February 5, 2026, 6:24 PM EST. The Super Bowl becomes a battleground for AI branding as Amazon promotes Alexa+ with a Hemsworth-tinged spoof of rogue tech, while Google Gemini runs a practical showcase. The spotlight, however, centers on a public clash between Anthropic and OpenAI, tied to the growing idea of placing advertising within AI services. OpenAI has announced plans to bring advertising to its ChatGPT product to fund rapid growth, prompting a pointed response from Sam Altman. Anthropic counters with a Claude ad that flips the premise on deceptive advertising. Industry executives frame the moment as a test of whether AI ads can be both entertaining and trustworthy. OpenAI's Altman insists the message is broader: builders can create anything with AI, a claim meant to resonate beyond the ad slots.

Apple online store adds discounted refurbished iPhone 16 series models

February 5, 2026, 6:22 PM EST. Apple's online store now offers refurbished iPhone 16 series models, with devices refreshed using genuine Apple parts, thorough cleaning, newer OS builds, and a brand-new box with accessories. Refurbished 128GB iPhone 16 variants in Pink, Ultramarine and Teal are listed at $619, compared with $699-$729 fresh from the store. Apple cites savings of up to $110 on 128GB models and as much as $230 on a 1TB iPhone 16 Pro Max. Third-party marketplaces such as BackMarket tout even larger discounts, sometimes with third-party inspections. Availability spans multiple countries, but not every model is offered everywhere. Refurbished units are eligible for extended AppleCare+ or AppleCare One and are indistinguishable from brand-new units.

AI agents push users toward longer scrolling, prompting UX and engagement questions

February 5, 2026, 6:16 PM EST. Tech teams report that AI agents designed to guide interactions are pushing users to keep scrolling, raising concerns about online attention and user experience. In interviews with product executives, several firms described a shift from static pages to dynamic agents that extract micro-interactions, nudging users toward more content consumption. Separately, some sites continue to cripple functionality when JavaScript is disabled, highlighting friction between content widgets and browser settings. Analysts say the tension centers on balancing engagement goals with privacy and load times. Vendors say AI-driven prompts improve conversion in some cases but risk alienating users if prompts feel intrusive. The challenges underscore a broader debate about how much automation should steer human attention online, and at what cost.

OpenAI says new coding model helped build itself

February 5, 2026, 6:02 PM EST. OpenAI released GPT-5.3-Codex, claiming the coding model helped design and deploy itself. The company says early Codex iterations were used to debug training, manage deployment, and diagnose results, accelerating its development. Codex and similar tools let developers build software from natural language, shifting code-writing from humans to AI. The release highlights a feedback loop where AI systems help design successors, raising safety questions and blurring lines between teams. OpenAI says GPT-5.3-Codex runs about 25% faster and uses fewer resources, and is the first model labeled 'high-capability' for cybersecurity under its risk framework. Researchers say Codex aids training runs, data cleaning, and evaluation, speeding progress.

Analyst sees Tesla robotaxi revenue hitting $250 billion by 2035, but warns on near-term costs

February 5, 2026, 6:00 PM EST. Wolfe Research's Emmanuel Rosner argues Tesla's robotaxi revenue could reach about $250 billion by 2035 if autonomous penetration hits 30% and Tesla secures roughly 50% market share at about $1 per mile. The math implies a $2.75 trillion equity value, about $900 billion today when discounted, equaling roughly $250 per share for the unit. He notes Optimus and FSD licensing could add upside. But near-term earnings would likely suffer as Tesla spends to build the fleet, with losses near $500 million as it expands from about 250 to 7,200 vehicles and launches in seven new markets in the first half of the year. The stock trades around 192x forward earnings, reflecting a premium for robotaxis and autonomy; major risks include competition, regulatory hurdles, and the challenge of achieving fully unsupervised driving.

China joins race to develop space-based data centers under five-year plan

February 5, 2026, 5:58 PM EST. China's state-backed space program will pursue space-based data centers as part of a five-year plan, according to CGTN. The plan from the state-owned CASC envisions an integrated space system architecture that combines cloud edge and terminal technologies to enable computing power, storage and transmission from space. The plan also covers asteroid mining, space debris monitoring and a push into space tourism. The move comes as U.S. and other tech firms, including SpaceX, explore orbiting data centers to counter rising terrestrial energy costs and land constraints. Axiom Space has started sending components for an orbiting data center, and Google is weighing similar efforts. The topic resurfaced at Davos, where a panel discussed security implications of rapid space-tech development while ensuring resilient internet infrastructure on Earth and beyond.

Pixel 10a vs iPhone 16e: Budget phone showdown for value

February 5, 2026, 5:48 PM EST. Budget-minded buyers may favor the Google Pixel 10a over the iPhone 16e, at least on price. The Pixel 10a is pegged at $500 with preorder starting Feb 18, and a launch within weeks. The iPhone 16e starts at $599 and has been on sale since February 2025. In specs, the Pixel bets on value: 6.28-inch AMOLED, 120Hz, 5,100 mAh battery, Google Tensor G5, 8GB RAM, 128/256GB. The iPhone tops with a 6.1-inch OLED, 60Hz, 4,005 mAh battery, Apple A18, 8GB RAM, 128/256/512GB. Cameras: both offer a 48MP main; Pixel adds a 13MP ultrawide, while iPhone lists a 12MP selfie. OS is Android 16 vs iOS 18. Availability and value will hinge on post-launch performance.

Anthropic unveils Claude Opus 4.6 as AI moves toward a vibe working era

February 5, 2026, 5:42 PM EST. Anthropic rolled out Claude Opus 4.6, its latest AI model, boasting stronger coding, longer task stamina and higher-quality professional outputs. The release marks the first major model debut of the year, following three late-2024 updates. Enterprise clients remain the backbone of Anthropic's business, representing about 80% of revenue, CEO Dario Amodei said. Scott White, Anthropic's head of enterprise product, described a shift toward "vibe working," where teams code and collaborate with AI-assisted flow. Opus 4.6 improves planning, code review and debugging across large codebases, enhances document search, research and financial analyses, and tops the Finance Agent benchmark. The model is accessible via claude.ai, its API and major cloud platforms, building on Claude Code and Claude Cowork aimed at accelerating enterprise software development.

Tesla sued again over electronic door handles in wrongful-death case

February 5, 2026, 5:40 PM EST. The mother of a 20-year-old man who died after being trapped in a burning Tesla Model Y is suing Tesla over its electronic door handles. Filed in US District Court in Massachusetts, the wrongful-death suit follows a crash on October 29, 2025 in Easton that left Samuel Tremblett unable to escape as he pleaded to 9-1-1, 'I can't breathe. It's on fire. Help. Please. I'm going to die.' The complaint cites at least 15 deaths since 2016 linked to the handles and accuses the company of manufacturing a dangerous product. Federal regulators, including the NHTSA, are reviewing the matter, with attention to children who may be unable to operate interior releases. Tesla says it is redesigning the system to combine electronic and manual releases into a single button. China has banned electronic handles, and Bloomberg's review found more than 140 reports of doors getting stuck since 2018.

Anthropic launches Claude Opus 4.6 as AI moves toward a 'vibe working' era

February 5, 2026, 5:38 PM EST. Anthropic on Thursday unveiled Claude Opus 4.6, a model the company says is better at coding, sustaining tasks longer and producing higher-quality professional work. The launch marks the year's first major Opus release after late-2024/early-2025 updates to Opus 4.5, Sonnet 4.5 and Haiku 4.5. CEO Dario Amodei said enterprise customers, who account for about 80% of revenue, will drive adoption. Scott White, Anthropic's head of product for enterprise, called the shift toward vibe working. The update also strengthens Claude Code and Claude Cowork, and it tops the Finance Agent benchmark in financial tasks. Claude Opus 4.6 is available at claude.ai, via API and across major cloud platforms.

Tesla faces wrongful death suit over electronic door handles

February 5, 2026, 5:32 PM EST. A Massachusetts federal court suit targets Tesla over its electronic door handles after a 2025 crash left a 20-year-old man trapped in a Model Y. The plaintiff, the decedent's mother, says the flush, electronically operated handles created a dangerous, trap-prone design and cites prior fatalities. The complaint accuses Tesla of negligent design, manufacture and marketing. Regulators at the NHTSA are reviewing complaints about doors that lock occupants, especially children, inside vehicles. China banned electronic handles, ordering mechanical ones instead. Tesla says it is redesigning the system to merge electronic and manual releases. A Bloomberg review last year counted more than 140 US reports of doors getting stuck since 2018. The case adds to ongoing scrutiny of vehicle-door safety in EVs.

Apple Watch Series 11 discounted to as low as $300 base, $400 cellular at major retailers

February 5, 2026, 5:24 PM EST. Retailers discount the Apple Watch Series 11, with the base model down to about $300 and the GPS + Cellular version near $400, across Amazon, Best Buy and Walmart. The upgrade improves battery life, letting most users reach a full day and beyond on a single charge, while sleep tracking and health features remain central. A new health capability monitors high blood pressure; Apple notes the tool is FDA-cleared, though not a medical device. The watch maintains tight iPhone integration, messaging and activity tracking, and cellular models offer on-watch messaging with 5G support. Retailers show multiple color and band options; a full hands-on review is available for those curious about the changes.

Apple Watch Series 11 discounted to as low as $299 at major retailers

February 5, 2026, 5:22 PM EST. Apple Watch Series 11 is on sale at Amazon, Best Buy and other retailers, with the base model down to about $299 and the GPS + Cellular variant near $399-$400, depending on finish and band. The drop follows a major battery and software optimization, letting most users reach a full day or more on a single charge and then track sleep. The update introduces high blood pressure monitoring, FDA-cleared though not a medical device, offering two weeks of vitals and alerts if action is advised. The watch still pairs with iPhone for messages and notifications; cellular versions add satellite and 5G messaging. Availability spans multiple colors and bands; a full hands-on review is linked.

Musk's orbital AI data centers draw rivals into space compute

February 5, 2026, 5:20 PM EST. Elon Musk is moving toward orbital AI data centers by merging SpaceX with xAI, aiming to solve the power and cooling demands of growing artificial-intelligence compute. Musk says space offers abundant energy and space to cool hardware, and the merger could accelerate testing of space-based infrastructure. Google and others are weighing orbital data centers, with Google noting that in the right orbit a solar panel can be up to eight times more productive than on Earth. Critics say the challenges are engineering rather than physical, but proponents foresee near-term pilots and a longer-term shift, with Starcloud and others launching test satellites. Analysts caution costs and reliability issues, while some see a decade-long path to orbit-dominated AI infrastructure amid backlash to land-use.

Is the AI bubble popping? Software sell-off rattles investors

February 5, 2026, 5:14 PM EST. Investors are debating whether the AI-driven software rally has peaked, as the IGV tumbles and software stocks enter a bear market. The ETF is down about 9% this week, and the sector remains roughly 30% off its late-2023 highs. Analysts cite fears that agentic AI could disrupt incumbents, even as others see it as a temporary pullback. Anthropic's Claude updates fuel the concern, while supporters insist established players will compete by building their own agents. Some see opportunity: Jefferies notes about 73% of software names are oversold; Citi's Tyler Radke favors companies tied to hyperscale data, like Microsoft, MongoDB, and Snowflake. Yet others warn of further valuation erosion if volatility persists, with the IGV trading near 40x trailing earnings. The debate spans whether this is a lasting pattern or a fade in a crowded trade.

Google teases broader AirDrop-style transfer for Android via Quick Share, with announcements very soon

February 5, 2026, 5:04 PM EST. Google says AirDrop-style interoperability via Quick Share will reach more Android devices this year after debut on the Pixel 10 series in November 2025. Eric Kay, Google's VP of Engineering for Android, told reporters the feature has been proven across iPhone, iPad and MacBooks and will expand in 2026 to a broader ecosystem. He suggested there will be announcements 'very soon,' with possibilities around Samsung's Unpacked event or MWC. The company also signaled easier data transfer for users switching from iOS to Android, though details were limited. The rollout aims to extend cross-platform sharing beyond Pixel phones as the Android ecosystem grows.

Google Pixel February 2026 update: full device list and download steps

February 5, 2026, 4:58 PM EST. Google has released the February 2026 update for Pixel devices. There are no user-facing changes, beyond a security patch for a VPU driver vulnerability. The update targets nearly all supported Pixels, including Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro/9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9a, Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro/XL, Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 7, and 7 Pro are skipped again. The download size is 25.30MB. To install: Settings > System > Software updates > System update > Check for update. Expect March 2026 to bring Android 16 QPR3 and bigger changes. The device list matches January's rollout.

Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 discounted to $379.99 on official US store

February 5, 2026, 4:56 PM EST. Lenovo's Legion Tab Gen 3 is listed at $379.99 on the official US store, down from $549.99. The gaming-focused tablet is described as compact at 8.8 inches with a 2560×1600 LTPS display and a 165 Hz refresh rate. It runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, with 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage. Lenovo promotes a 6,550 mAh battery, 65W charging, and an ultra-thin profile (under 8 mm) weighing about 350 g. Audio comes from two front speakers; cooling uses a ColdFront Vapor Chamber. The device ships with Android 14, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4, plus a folio case and rapid charge adapter. The listing targets gaming enthusiasts and bargain hunters while promotions remain time-bound.

Google confirms Pixel 10a launch date for February 18

February 5, 2026, 4:54 PM EST. Google confirmed the Pixel 10a with a February 18 launch date after weeks of leaks. A YouTube teaser and a Google Store signup page indicate pre-orders will open at that time. The short clip repeats the line 'a phone with more in store,' fueling speculation about upgrades over the Pixel 9a. Google has not released full specs, and the company historically uses teasers to keep momentum as details emerge. Analysts expect a modest update, with upcoming hardware reveals still pending.

SpaceX eyes Starlink phone, direct-to-device internet as growth engine

February 5, 2026, 4:52 PM EST. SpaceX plans to expand Starlink into new markets, signaling a broader revenue push as the company eyes an IPO this year. Executives and sources say a Starlink-connected mobile device is in the works, along with direct-to-device internet and a space-tracking service. Starlink remains SpaceX's main profit driver, contributing about half to most of last year's roughly $15 billion to $16 billion in revenue and around $8 billion in profit, per sources. SpaceX bought $19.6 billion in satellite spectrum from EchoStar to bolster its cellular ambitions, while positioning Starlink as complementary to traditional mobile networks. Musk has signaled a device optimized for AI, rather than a conventional phone, and the path to a Starlink phone faces competition from existing MNOs.

World's first mass-produced sodium-ion EV Changan Nevo A06 to debut mid-2026

February 5, 2026, 4:48 PM EST. The Changan Nevo A06 will be the world's first mass-produced car powered by a sodium-ion battery, CATL and Changan say. It posts about 250 miles of CLTC range and, in tests, loses little range at -40°F. CATL calls this the start of a dual chemistry era, with its Naxtra battery rolling out across Changan's lineup, including Avatr, Deepal, Qiyuan and Uni. The pack adopts a cell-to-pack design to deliver roughly 400 km (249 miles) on the China cycle, with potential growth toward 600 km as supply chains mature. Sodium-ion offers lower cost and abundant resources and reportedly avoids thermal runaway and severe winter loss compared with some lithium chemistries.

Apple narrowly defeats Samsung in 2025 smartphone shipments, Omdia finds

February 5, 2026, 4:46 PM EST. According to Omdia data, Apple shipped 240.6 million smartphones in 2025, capturing a 19% market share and narrowly beating Samsung at 239.1 million and the same share after rounding. Both brands rose 7% year over year. Honor led growth, up 11%, while Xiaomi ranked third with 165.4 million and 13% share but a 2% decline. Vivo posted 105.3 million (8% share, 4% growth); Oppo 100.7 million (8% share, down 3%). Transsion and Honor each held 8% and 6% shares respectively, with several others-Lenovo, Huawei, and Realme-trailing. The market total reached 1.25 billion units, up 2%; Greater China slipped as subsidies faded. Apple grew 26% in Mainland China on stronger iPhone 17 demand.

Nvidia expands open-model push with Bryan Catanzaro, reveals Nemotron Nano family

February 5, 2026, 4:44 PM EST. Nvidia is accelerating its open-model program, releasing more models and datasets while courting enterprise adoption. In a conversation with Bryan Catanzaro, VP of Applied Deep Learning Research, the Dec 2025 Nemotron 3 Nano launch and plans for Super/Ultra variants are discussed. The interview explores why Nvidia sees a business advantage in open models, how teams shape culture and tooling around Megatron-LM and NeMo, and the current state of open-source training. Catanzaro frames open models as potential energy for future AI applications, argues Nvidia's unique ability to build and capture value, and outlines career paths into AI research. The piece underscores a pragmatic, ongoing evolution rather than a single breakthrough.

RAM shortages delay Valve's Steam Machine desktop and Steam Frame headset

February 5, 2026, 4:42 PM EST. Valve says it cannot set pricing or a firm launch date for the Steam Machine desktop and Steam Frame VR headset due to ongoing RAM and storage shortages. The products were unveiled in November without pricing or availability. AI-driven demand has pushed memory prices higher, a trend extending to GPUs and other devices. Valve still plans to launch both devices, along with a new Steam Controller, in the first half of the year, but must revisit shipping schedules and pricing as conditions change. In a blog post, Valve said the shortage has rapidly increased since November, forcing uncertainty around pricing and launch dates and requiring adjustments to the planned rollout.

Meta tests standalone Vibes app to host AI-generated videos outside Meta AI

February 5, 2026, 4:40 PM EST. Meta is testing a standalone Vibes app for its AI-generated video service, moving the experience out of Meta AI. The short-form videos resemble TikTok or Instagram Reels, but every clip is AI-generated. Meta says the standalone app aims to offer a more focused home for creation and discovery and notes continued growth in Meta AI usage. The company also suggested the new format will compete with OpenAI's Sora. Vibes lets users create from scratch or remix existing videos, add visuals and music, and publish to the Vibes feed or share to Instagram and Facebook. Meta signaled forthcoming freemium subscriptions for Vibes and other AI features, with test subscriptions planned in the coming months. The move was first reported by Platformer.

Capcom's Switch 2 ports of Resident Evil 9 and Pragmata show improved performance, signaling the end of compromised Nintendo ports

February 5, 2026, 4:36 PM EST. Capcom's Switch 2 versions of Resident Evil 9 and Pragmata look more like credible multiplatform releases than throwaway ports, the reviewer writes. After hands-on with RE: Requiem across PS5 and Switch 2 (dock and handheld), the author sees performance improvements, including a target of about 60fps in docked mode. The handheld experience benefits from screen size, but the author argues horror is best in a large, cinematic setting. Still, the Switch 2 builds feel at home on Nintendo's platform, challenging the old idea that Nintendo ports are inherently compromised. The piece frames this as part of a broader trend: high-fidelity games may finally run well on Switch 2, potentially making it a primary option for some players.

Windows 11 KB5074105 adds admin prompt to Storage settings; Temporary files cleanup breaks for some folders

February 5, 2026, 4:28 PM EST. Microsoft's Windows 11 KB5074105 (Build 26200.7705) adds an admin prompt to open Storage settings, the company confirmed to Windows Latest as an intentional change. The update, released January 29 as an optional patch, also fixes other issues like the January 2026 Nvidia GPU black-screen bug and Start menu problems. On opening Storage (Settings > System > Storage), Windows now prompts for elevation via UAC to help ensure only authorized users access system files. However, testers report a side effect: the Temporary files page no longer lists or cleans up several admin-only items, including Windows Update and device drivers. Disk Cleanup, run elevated, can still remove those files; the non-elevated scan hides them.

Walmart cuts 43% off Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)

February 5, 2026, 4:16 PM EST. Walmart is discounting the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen), a wearable that keeps users connected and tracks health and fitness metrics. The retailer lists a 43% discount on the device, marking one of the deeper promos in recent weeks. The deal page confirms availability at Walmart but provides limited detail on colors or storage options. The Apple Watch SE emphasizes core features such as heart-rate monitoring, activity tracking, and iPhone integration, appealing to shoppers seeking a lower-cost entry into Apple's wearables. The listing is dated February 5, 2026.

Valve's Steam Machine on track for early 2026, says AMD

February 5, 2026, 4:14 PM EST. Valve's Steam Machine reboot remains on track for its original release window, AMD said on an earnings call. AMD CEO Dr. Lisa Su stated Valve is 'on track to begin shipping its AMD-powered Steam Machine early this year,' aligning with the firm's early 2026 window. Critics warn earnings calls reflect optimism, and memory shortages-especially RAM and SSD constraints tied to AI demand-could push timelines into 2027. Still, AMD has an incentive to push volumes, and Valve appears keen to monetize inventories. The Steam Machine blends PC customization with lounge-friendly features, including a Steam Deck-style compatibility program and a redesigned Steam Controller. If shortages ease, it could ship later this year; otherwise, waits may lengthen.

Telesin Frame vs Street Grip Kit for DJI Osmo Action 6: Which One Is Right For You?

February 5, 2026, 4:12 PM EST. Shawn from Air Photography reviews Telesin frames for the DJI Osmo Action 6, comparing a basic frame with the street grip kit, plus a silicone sleeve and a compact fill light. The Action 6 form factor changed, so shoppers must buy options specific to the Action 6; Action 4/5 frames won't fit. The basic frame adds rigidity while staying lightweight, and it keeps access to the power button, USB-C, the battery, and the magnetic mounting, with a 1/4-20 thread and a top cold shoe. The street grip kit is more modular and versatile. The silicone sleeve offers extra grip, and the fill light attaches via magnetic mounts and offers multiple brightness levels and color temperatures. Bottom line: match the option to the Action 6 and weigh accessories like sleeve and light for your workflow.

Wayback Machine and Automattic launch Link Fixer to curb link rot in WordPress

February 5, 2026, 4:08 PM EST. Automattic and the Internet Archive's Wayback Machine unveiled a WordPress plug-in called Link Fixer to address link rot. The tool scans WordPress posts for outbound links, checks archived versions in the Wayback Machine, and, if no archive exists, takes fresh snapshots. If a linked page goes offline, readers are redirected to the archived page, preserving the reading experience. It also automates archiving of a site's own posts and continues to monitor links even after publication. If an original link later comes back online, the plug-in can redirect users back to the live page. Controls are user-friendly; default ping interval is every three days, with options to customize scan frequency. Pew Research 2024 notes the scale of link decay.

Google says Gemini-powered Siri to run on Google servers, as Pichai describes Apple collaboration

February 5, 2026, 4:06 PM EST. Alphabet chief executive Sundar Pichai said on the Q4 2025 earnings call that Google is collaborating with Apple as its preferred cloud provider to develop the next generation of Apple Foundation Models based on Gemini technology. The comments follow Apple's confirmation that Gemini would power new Siri features, fueling questions about where user data travels and how privacy is preserved. Apple has said Foundation Models run on-device or via Private Cloud Compute (PCC), its cloud-infrastructure designed to protect privacy when data leaves the device. Bloomberg had suggested a possible shift to Google's servers with TPUs, while the immediate Siri rollout would run on PCC. Cook reiterated that Apple would run on-device and in PCC and kept details of the Google deal private. Schindler echoed the collaboration language in his remarks.

Google Pixel 10 Pro XL discounted by over $200, unlocked

February 5, 2026, 4:04 PM EST. Google's Pixel 10 Pro XL is listed at $1,299, about $200 off a record low and attracting attention as color options thin. The deal runs while supplies last. The phone features a bright display, strong cameras with long-range zoom, and runs on the Tensor G5 chip for smooth daily use, gaming and AI tasks. Expert reviewer Andrew Lanxon praised the cameras and AI tools as compelling and likely to improve. Because the phone is unlocked, buyers avoid carrier or activation fees until they choose a carrier. The record low is cited at $1,250 around Black Friday 2025; today's offer represents meaningful savings on a premium device.

Galaxy S26 Ultra may lack built-in magnets for Qi2, leaker says

February 5, 2026, 4:00 PM EST. Leaker Ice Universe says the Galaxy S26 Ultra will not have built-in magnets for Qi2. A magnetic case will be required to unlock Qi2 functionality, reversing earlier rumors of embedded magnets and a flood of magnetic accessories. The discussion centers on a claimed 25W wireless charging benchmark tied to Qi2; Apple's iPhone and Google's Pixel 10 have used magnets since 2020. The claim casts the S26 as a Qi2-ready device that still depends on casings for magnetic accessories, echoing earlier talk about the S25 and reigniting questions about native magnetic integration six years after Apple popularized the tech.

Reply (BIT:REY) valuation check after bio computing and AI robotics projects

February 5, 2026, 3:58 PM EST. Reply (BIT:REY) has drawn fresh attention after two announcements: a collaboration on biological computing with the University of Milan and a robotics orchestration project for Otto Group developed with NVIDIA. Despite AI and automation headlines, the stock has softened, with a 7-day return of 9.53%, a year-to-date gain of 9.29%, and a 1-year total shareholder return of 35.92%. The stock trades at a P/E of 14.2x, seen as attractive versus peers and the European IT sector, though below a model's estimated fair value of 23.7x. A DCF valuation shows a gap: €100.6 vs €87.7, implying potential overvaluation if earnings grow near 5.74%. Risks include execution timing and the durability of AI demand.

GDIT Helps CMS Cut Cloud Costs Using OneGov and AWS

February 5, 2026, 3:56 PM EST. General Dynamics Information Technology helped CMS cut cloud costs by onboarding to the General Services Administration's OneGov program with AWS. CMS is the first federal agency to document savings under OneGov. GDIT says the move unlocked government-wide cloud pricing from AWS, while its cloud financial operations provided real-time visibility into usage and spend, enabling resource optimization. The result: millions of dollars in savings in under 60 days and ongoing modernization support. GDIT runs CMS's Hybrid Cloud Products and Tools contract for a large-scale, hybrid multi-cloud environment serving more than 160 million people. Kamal Narang, GDIT's SVP for federal health, calls the milestone proof of mission expertise and partnerships that accelerate innovation for government. Earlier CMS work includes a 2020 $241M task order and a potential $1B contract in 2025.

DJI Mini 4K Camera Drone Combo hits $309 on Amazon, lowest price yet

February 5, 2026, 3:54 PM EST. Deal alert: The DJI Mini 4K Camera Drone Combo is on sale at Amazon for $309, down from $389. That's a 21% cut and the lowest price seen to date. The kit targets newcomers and includes the drone plus essential accessories, offering compact design and entry-level aerial videography. The offer was current as of February 5, 2026, with pricing and availability subject to change. Buyers should verify current terms before purchase as deals can lapse quickly.

Warren, Kim urge Pentagon to review SpaceX over potential Chinese ownership

February 5, 2026, 3:48 PM EST. Two Democratic senators asked Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to review SpaceX after reports that Chinese investors may hold stakes in the company. The letter from Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim warns that Chinese ownership could pose a national security threat to SpaceX's military, intelligence, and civilian infrastructure tied to Starlink. It notes allegations investors routed funds via Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands to mask purchases. The lawmakers want the DoD to disclose the scale of any Chinese stake, assess if SpaceX falls under FOCI rules, and determine if foreign investments should undergo CFIUS review. They set a February 20 deadline. The push follows SpaceX's xAI move and a Delaware court ruling involving a Chinese investor in a related SPV.

NASA Artemis II rocket will feature West Virginia-made aluminum from Ravenswood plant

February 5, 2026, 3:40 PM EST. Ravenswood, West Virginia's Constellium plant supplied aluminum for every exterior part of NASA's Artemis II spacecraft, officials said. Constellium described the material as West Virginia proudly-made aluminum. NASA completed a wet dress rehearsal-a countdown and propellant-load check on the pad that stops short of liftoff-and has moved away from a February launch window, with a date yet to be set. Artemis II will carry four astronauts farther into space than any crewed mission since Apollo, on a flight around the Moon. Constellium, which employs more than 1,100 workers, supplies aluminum to spacecraft, aircraft and automotive markets.

Alphabet bets on AI-led growth as it plans $175-185 billion capex by 2026, cites computing-power constraints

February 5, 2026, 3:36 PM EST. Alphabet, the Google parent, reported a fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 that topped $400 billion in revenue. AI is the core growth driver, with cloud revenue up about 48% year over year and continued strength in Search and YouTube. CEO Sundar Pichai outlined a capex plan of $175-185 billion by 2026, with about 60% for servers and 40% for data centers and network gear, much of it for ML. He warned the key challenge is computing-power constraints-electricity, LANs, and supply chains-and urged capacity expansion while maintaining efficiency. Pichai also disputed claims that Gemini would erode SaaS pricing power, saying it empowers buyers and is integrated across products.

Apple's ecosystem and 2.5 billion devices anchor long-term growth

February 5, 2026, 3:28 PM EST. Apple posted a strong first quarter, with revenue up 16% and iPhone sales up 23%. The bigger driver, however, is its ecosystem: 2.5 billion active devices create a durable moat and fuel demand for newer models and services. Management noted supply constraints on iPhone demand, hinting sales could have been higher. Mac sales fell 7% after an exceptionally strong prior year, with half of new buyers joining from outside the Apple base. Beyond devices, Apple monetizes through AirPods, Apple Watch, and a growing Services business, including TV+, Fitness+, and privacy-focused AI features integrated across iOS via Apple Intelligence. The long-term outlook hinges on continued engagement across products and a widening ecosystem.

Garmin updates Instinct 3 lineup with beta 13.22 adding fitness tools, smarter alarms and outdoor features

February 5, 2026, 3:26 PM EST. Garmin rolled out beta system software version 13.22 for the Instinct 3 family-Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct E. The patch brings a broad set of features after a year since launch. New items include a Treadmill Walk activity, Trucking features, and swim fixes such as restoring missing menus in Pool Swim mode. Users can customize Morning Report and enable Smart Wake alarms. InReach-specific updates cover offline data viewing, notifications and long-message fixes, plus reduced lag in glances. Solar/AMOLED/Crossover models gain Pack Weight support for Stair Stepper and Floor Climb, and Training Readiness improvements. The Instinct 3 Crossover also gets new watch faces and animation/battery fixes. Non-beta users will see the rollout later; pricing deals appear at retailers.

MLB players strike deal to create AI avatars with Genies

February 5, 2026, 3:22 PM EST. Major League Baseball players have agreed with Genies to create AI avatars of themselves that can chat with fans. AI avatars are digital characters powered by artificial intelligence, designed to mimic a player's voice and interests. The deal, announced Thursday by Genies and MLB Players Inc., aims to let fans interact with top stars through conversations and in-app experiences. Genies will be able to monetize these avatars by charging for chat interactions, virtual experiences and digital goods. The companies did not disclose which players will be available at launch. The arrangement marks a new form of fan engagement, blending sports branding with AI-powered fan experiences.

Google Cloud AI delivers real-time biomechanical feedback for Team USA athletes on the slopes

February 5, 2026, 3:18 PM EST. Google Cloud AI can run on devices the size of a skier's glove, delivering near-real-time biomechanical feedback to Team USA athletes on the slopes. The system lets skiers review a past run in new light, slow footage to see exactly where the head and body are positioned, and compare legacy shots without sending video back to a gym. Shaun White says the tool lets you bring a run from the past into the future to understand subtle movements in real time. Google argues the technology is scalable beyond sports, with potential in robotic surgery and manufacturing safety protocols, illustrating AI's move toward actionable insight on movement.

Best DJI deals this week: Mic Mini, Power 1000 V2, and Mini 4K drone

February 5, 2026, 3:16 PM EST. Mashable highlights time-limited deals on DJI gear, including the DJI Mic Mini, the Power 1000 V2 portable power station, and the DJI Mini 4K drone. The roundup notes price drops vary by retailer and can change after publication. Purchases via links may earn Mashable an affiliate commission. The promotions aim to boost creators' audio, power, and aerial capabilities, with emphasis on value as promos rotate through the week.

Used Tesla Model X price drop in 2026 as depreciation widens

February 5, 2026, 3:14 PM EST. Used Tesla Model X prices have sharply fallen as depreciation widens and Tesla signals a shift away from the model. A 2017 Model X can be found for about $22,990, down from an original MSRP of around $75,900, a decline near 69%. Carvana and CarMax listings under $30,000 are common, though buyers should expect battery aging and reduced range-roughly 238 miles for older units. Fans still get falcon-wing doors and access to the supercharger network, which keeps the model attractive as a used EV. Tesla has indicated it will discontinue the Model X (and Model S), narrowing new-options. Competitors like Kia's EV9 offer similar space and features, with the EV9 starting near $54,900 and about 230 miles of range.

DJI Osmo Action 4 Essential Combo discounted 31% to $199 at Amazon

February 5, 2026, 3:10 PM EST. Deal watchers: The DJI Osmo Action 4 Essential Combo is on sale at Amazon for $199, down from $289. That 31% cut matches the lowest price seen at Amazon. The offer, noted by Mashable, highlights ongoing winter outdoor gear promos. The Essential Combo includes the camera and key accessories; price and availability may change after publication.

AI data center boom tightens DRAM supply for Nintendo Switch 2

February 5, 2026, 3:00 PM EST. AI data centers are gobbling up DRAM at scale, tightening supplies for consumer hardware such as Nintendo's Switch 2. The article notes cloud giants are buying memory for AI clusters, while Nintendo's Shuntaro Furukawa warned that high memory prices could eat into profits even as current results hold. Digital Foundry reports the Switch 2 ships with about 12 GB of LPDDR5X memory, a mobile DRAM standard designed for speed and longer battery life. In data centers, AI accelerators rely on HBM (high-bandwidth memory) stacked DRAM near the chips. The tension: limited production capacity and booming AI demand could constrain overall memory availability, pressuring console makers and chip suppliers alike.

Apple A16 iPad discounts deepen on Amazon; 11-inch model nears AirPods Pro price

February 5, 2026, 2:56 PM EST. Amazon is discounting Apple's 11-inch iPad with the A16 chip, cutting up to $50 depending on configuration. Wi-Fi models start at $299 for 128GB, then $400 for 256GB and $599 for 512GB; cellular variants begin at $468, $559, and $754. The tablet features an 11-inch Liquid Retina display, True Tone and a dual 12MP camera setup, with Center Stage for video calls. Apple Pencil support and the Magic Keyboard Folio extend productivity; Touch ID sits in the top button and Wi-Fi 6 is included. The discounts make the A16 iPad a more affordable choice for games, streaming and daily tasks on Amazon.

Your phone edits photos with AI – is reality being rewritten?

February 5, 2026, 2:54 PM EST. Smartphones automate photo editing with AI, turning complex adjustments into one-tap decisions. Experts say the shift democratizes tools once limited to pros, letting amateurs mold images instantly. Still, phones increasingly make creative calls-sometimes shaping memories without users realizing it. Some researchers insist OEMs aim to reproduce captured scenes, not to fabricate them; yet every device carries a built-in style, from Pixel to iPhone, that colors output. Critics warn that the line between improved accuracy and artful distortion is slippery, and that what counts as a real photo has evolved since film. The debate centers on choice, control, and what technology erases when it edits for us. As AI-assisted rendering grows, viewers should ask who controls the look of their memories and what that means for trust.

Arm shares slide after licensing miss; AI demand fuels record revenue, but smartphone exposure looms

February 5, 2026, 2:50 PM EST. Arm Holdings' shares slipped in after-hours trading after licensing revenue missed estimates. Licensing revenue for the fiscal third quarter rose 25% year over year to $505 million but came in 2.9% below the $519.9 million expected by FactSet. Total revenue rose to a quarterly record of $1.242 billion, boosted by AI demand, and exceeded LSEG SmartEstimates. Analysts cautioned that smartphone exposure remains a risk amid a global memory shortage that also hit Qualcomm's outlook. Andrew Jackson of Ortus Advisors said investors reacted to the modest beat on guidance alongside Qualcomm's wary forecast. Qualcomm tumbled about 9.7% after hours. Arm's business relies heavily on royalties from chips in consumer devices, with smartphones accounting for roughly half of revenue and data centers expanding as a growing contributor. Arm remains pressured by broader tech-market headwinds and potential declines in Chinese smartphone production.

YouTube Pays Creators $100B; CineD Focus Check Highlights Hohem MT3, DJI RS 5, QuikBeam

February 5, 2026, 2:48 PM EST. In four years, YouTube has paid creators more than $100 billion, reframing what the platform can monetize. This episode uses that milestone to examine creators' priorities and tools. Highlights include two new Hohem iSteady MT3/MT3 Pro gimbals with built-in AI tracking and pro performance at consumer prices; the DJI RS 5 with enhanced stabilization and rapid charging; and coverage of lighting and lens gear, including Astera QuikBeam and NANLITE FC-720B/C. The show also flags firmware updates for the Sony a7S III and cinema gear, plus debuts like the Aputure NOVA panels, Leica Noctilux-M 35mm f/1.2, and the Pixboom Spark line. A tight tour of gear shaping creator workflows and decision making.

Altman calls Anthropic's Super Bowl ads 'funny' but 'clearly dishonest' in AI ad spat

February 5, 2026, 2:46 PM EST. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman criticized Anthropic's new Super Bowl campaign as 'funny' but 'clearly dishonest,' adding that OpenAI would not run ads as depicted. Anthropic, which plans to keep its Claude ad-free, released a 60-second pregame and a 30-second in-game spot built around the line 'Ads are coming to AI. But not to Claude.' The disagreement comes as OpenAI said it will begin testing ads with some ChatGPT users in the United States, while Anthropic reiterated it will not place ads in Claude. Altman accused Anthropic of 'deceptive' advertising and argued OpenAI faces a different, broader set of user needs due to its larger free-user base. The rival firms have pursued a shared goal of winning users, enterprise clients and market share in AI.

Skyrover S1 Mini Drone in stock as a DJI alternative for $289 at Amazon

February 5, 2026, 2:42 PM EST. Skyrover's S1 Mini Drone is in stock on Amazon as a lower-cost DJI alternative. The deal shows the drone at $289 with an on-page coupon, about 17% off and a $60 saving. The offer was live as of Feb. 5, 2026, and targets content creators seeking an affordable compact aerial tool.

AI can boost workplace creativity, but only with metacognition training, Harvard study says

February 5, 2026, 2:40 PM EST. Generative AI is increasingly embedded in daily work, and early findings show a genuine, though uneven, payoff in creativity, according to Harvard Business Review. The study finds AI boosts creativity mainly for employees with strong metacognition-the ability to plan, monitor and refine their own thinking. While AI expands access to information and lowers cognitive load on routine tasks, many workers do not use those advantages effectively. Those who reflect on AI outputs, challenge assumptions and iterate on ideas realize measurable gains; others who accept the first AI answer at face value see little benefit. The results challenge the notion that simply deploying AI tools sparks innovation. Researchers say adoption must be paired with training that builds metacognition and promotes critical engagement. Leaders should equip staff to think, not just perform.

Amazon expands Alexa Plus nationwide, adds free tier for non-Prime users

February 5, 2026, 2:34 PM EST. Amazon says its redesigned, generative AI assistant Alexa Plus is now available to all Prime members in the United States and to non-Prime users via a new free tier on the web and in the Alexa app. Paid options include Alexa Plus at $19.99 per month (no Prime benefits) and Alexa Plus for Prime members at $14.99/month or $139/year, with unlimited access across Alexa-enabled devices, Alexa.com and the app. A new Alexa Plus Chat option lets non-Prime users try the service for free, though usage is capped and resembles a research chatbot. The expansion follows a March 2025 Early Access phase and previews in Europe. The platform is powered by Amazon Nova and Anthropic models, part of a ground-up rebuild that emphasizes natural language understanding.

Consolidating AI workloads with iPaaS and SAP Integration Suite

February 5, 2026, 2:30 PM EST. Enterprises built a patchwork of cloud services, mobile apps and IoT to chase efficiency. New bottlenecks in integration and data quality now limit performance, with 48% of CIOs saying current digital initiatives meet targets. SAP Integration Suite chief product officer Achim Kraiss notes that a fragmented landscape obscures end-to-end processes, complicates monitoring and governance, and raises costs. As AI becomes embedded in daily work, data must move faster and with tighter coordination than legacy architectures allow. Firms are shifting from scattered tools to consolidated, end-to-end platforms that streamline how systems interact. Analysts say iPaaS can centralize integration, improve data quality, and reduce maintenance as organizations prepare for an AI-powered future.

Deutsche Telekom leads the way to quantum internet

February 5, 2026, 2:26 PM EST. Deutsche Telekom is positioned at the forefront of quantum networking, as the company signals progress toward a quantum internet. The move dovetails with TelcoTitans' push to broaden access to telco and digital-infra coverage. Subscribers gain access to industry news, insight, and analysis from TelcoTitans and its branded channels such as Infrawatch, Eventwatch, and Telcofutures, plus a weekly newsletter and breaking-news alerts. The offering frames the telecom sector's transition to quantum-ready infrastructure as part of a wider information service for executives and engineers. A Deloitte partner described the content as 'super intelligence, consistently high quality, and easy to digest.'

911 call cited in lawsuit over Tesla door entrapment after crash

February 5, 2026, 2:22 PM EST. Bloomberg reported a 911 transcript in a Massachusetts federal suit tied to a crash on a Boston-area road last October. Tremblett, a 20-year-old, told the operator: "It's on fire. Help please. I can't get out." The complaint alleges he died from thermal injuries and smoke inhalation after becoming trapped when the Tesla Model Y doors could not be opened following the crash. The filing adds to a string of cases alleging door-related entrapment in crashed Tesla vehicles, including at least 15 deaths in about a dozen incidents over the past decade. Tesla has said it is redesigning door handles; the company notes updates to hazard lights and automatic unlocking after a serious collision. Separately, regulators in China and Europe are pursuing safety rules on exterior handles and emergency access.

Samsung teases major privacy feature to curb public snooping

February 5, 2026, 2:14 PM EST. Samsung says it has spent five years developing a privacy system that blends hardware and software to protect users in public without getting in the way. The teaser, cited by Samsung Mobile Press in January 2026, lets users tailor security to their preferences-choosing among patterns, PINs, fingerprints, passwords, or Samsung Pass-stored credentials. In concept clips, the feature obscures a Pattern lock from angles in a crowded elevator, shields a password as it's entered, and hides a message's text on a busy train. No official timing for rollout or technical specifics are given, though the company hints at a broader privacy push ahead of devices like the rumored Galaxy S26 Ultra.

US YouTuber uncovers AirTag tricks Apple doesn't spell out, including watch-based precision finding and battery-saving hack

February 5, 2026, 2:12 PM EST. US tech YouTuber HotshotTek highlights two AirTag tricks Apple doesn't spell out. First, with an Apple Watch Series 9 or newer (including Ultra 2 and Ultra 3), a Find Items shortcut can live in the Control Center, letting you track an AirTag directly from your wrist. The watch uses Ultra Wideband for directional guidance and even a vertical cue to show if the item is above or below you. Setup can be buggy, but it's faster than opening Find My on iPhone. Second, a simple battery-saving trick: twist off the back plate, remove the battery, then place it loosely so the AirTag stays dormant until needed. No extra hardware required, and it's handy for rotating trackers.

Tried a 25-inch Android tablet for a week; buying advice shifts

February 5, 2026, 2:06 PM EST. After a week with the KTC 25-inch Android tablet, the buying math changes. At $349, the large touch display aims at everyday tasks, not raw power. Its form factor fits kitchens, meeting rooms and kids' rooms, with a built-in stand and flexible orientation. The screen isn't top-tier on resolution or camera, but the device feels solid and responsive, especially with a lightweight launcher that speeds up interaction. The unit runs core apps-YouTube, Gmail, Chrome-well, and tasks like shopping lists are easier via Keep Notes. Setup required charging and Google's passkeys, but that's part of the ecosystem. Games still demand two hands, and portability remains limited, yet the 25-inch Android display proves versatile enough to change initial buying assumptions.

Samsung reveals February 2026 security update for One UI 8.5

February 5, 2026, 2:04 PM EST. Samsung published the February 2026 security update details for Galaxy devices running One UI 8.5. The release includes 37 patches across smartphones, foldables and tablets, with 25 CVEs from Google for Android and 12 from Samsung Mobile. Google has changed its monthly patching approach, removing a standing "critical" label and highlighting higher-severity issues as "high" for most devices. In total, Samsung has already patched eight CVEs that Google flagged in its bulletin. The update includes 12 One UI SVEs-focus areas labeled as High or Moderate-targeting components such as Emergency Sharing, Dialer, KnoxGuardManager, Settings, PACM and FacAtFunction. Notable SVE entries include SVE-2025-1140 (CVE-2026-20977) and others listed under the February SMR. Samsung notes these fixes aim to improve local and physical attack resilience across Galaxy phones and tablets.

Google teases Pixel 10a for Feb. 18 launch; early signs point to safe, incremental upgrade

February 5, 2026, 1:58 PM EST. Google has officially teased the Pixel 10a with a launch date of February 18, confirming a release that appears to lean on a familiar design. Early signs point to an incremental upgrade, with the phone's rear camera housing becoming flatter and performance tweaks likely inside, rather than bold new features. Leaks from Evan Blass and previews on the Google Store show a color and silhouette close to last year's Pixel 9a. Rumored software features such as Gemini Live and Call Assist surface in pre-release material, but Google has not signaled a major redesign. The broader smartphone season is heating up, with rivals like Samsung's S26 on the horizon, while the Pixel 10a's reception remains muted among reviewers.

AI and humans tested in D&D simulations at NeurIPS 2025

February 5, 2026, 1:54 PM EST. Researchers at NeurIPS 2025 in San Diego used Dungeons & Dragons to test AI long-term planning, communication and teamwork with humans and other models. The D&D Agents framework lets a single model serve as Dungeon Master and as an adventurer, or for teams that mix LLMs and human players. In experiments, DeepSeek-V3, Claude Haiku 3.5 and GPT-4 ran through four-character combat episodes drawn from Lost Mine of Phandelver. Senior author Raj Ammanabrolu said the game's dialog structure helps evaluate multistep planning and rule adherence, and supports human-AI coplay. Claude Haiku 3.5 showed the strongest combat efficiency in harder scenarios; in easier cases, resource conservation was similar across models. The work aims to inform real-world tasks such as disaster response and supply chains.

SpaceX-xAI merger could set up Musk's empire for a blockbuster IPO

February 5, 2026, 1:50 PM EST. SpaceX aims to float later this year after a planned $250 billion acquisition of xAI, tying together Musk's AI, social media, and space ventures. The privately held group would be among the most valuable on the planet, potentially framing a Musk-led empire with Tesla in its orbit. Analysts say a SpaceX IPO could set a new record-some estimates approach $50 billion-though the timing and terms remain uncertain. The deal follows Musk's earlier moves, such as the $45 billion purchase of X (Twitter) and the spin-out of The Boring Company. Investors face questions about governance, financing, and whether a single umbrella will reduce the need for future public listings. If SpaceX lists, it could redefine tech-capital markets for years to come.

Rugged Oukitel RT10: the overlooked spec that matters more than endurance

February 5, 2026, 1:48 PM EST. ZDNET's review of the rugged Oukitel RT10 notes a sale to $429 (regularly $749). The standout is an overlooked spec: a crisp, capable display. At 11 inches, the tablet weighs 1,255 g-nearly three times the iPad Pro's weight. After an initial sluggish Android UI, switching to O Launcher reduces resource use and restores speed. The speakers provide loud sound with solid bass. The battery life keeps the unit going through long field use. The piece argues durability matters for harsh environments, but the display and audio keep the experience from feeling gimmicky. Overall, the RT10 blends endurance with capable hardware at a discount.

METR's exponential AI plot stirs debate over frontier models

February 5, 2026, 1:42 PM EST. An evolving chart from MIT Technology Review's METR plot continues to shape AI chatter. The graphic, first released last year, tracks near-exponential progress in certain tasks and has appeared to outpace itself with recent model releases, notably Anthropic's Claude Opus 4.5. METR cautions that its estimates carry large error bars and measure specific tasks-chiefly coding-by comparing them to human time to completion, not universal capability. Critics warn that the chart does not reflect AI increasingly general abilities, and that reading too much into one plot risks alarmism. METR's work spans risk assessment and deeper system evaluations, including studies on whether AI assistants slow developers. The group emphasizes uncertainty and the need for broader measurement as frontier models advance.

BYD expands into Brazil as Tesla sales slow and global push accelerates

February 5, 2026, 1:36 PM EST. BYD, the world's largest EV maker, begins selling in Brazil, home to about 213 million people. The expansion fits its plan to grow outside China as Tesla faces slowing demand in the US and Europe. BYD's entry coincides with 100% tariffs on US imports, but the company is gaining traction in Europe, where registrations rose 268% last year while Tesla's fell 26%. BYD operates two factories in Europe and may add a third in Spain, and it plans to enter Canada this year and already sells in Mexico. In China, sales have weakened, with CNBC noting a near two-year low in January amid fierce competition. The push abroad reflects BYD's strategy to diversify and offset domestic headwinds, even as doubts linger about rapid access to the US market.

Anthropic, OpenAI race for enterprise AI as Super Bowl ads heighten rivalry

February 5, 2026, 1:20 PM EST. Rival AI developers Anthropic and OpenAI are racing to prove they can turn their products into sustainable enterprise platforms, even as a high-profile clash spills onto the Super Bowl – with ads targeting business buyers and consumers. Anthropic's commercials mock the dangers of manipulative chatbots and push Claude as a business tool, while OpenAI leans into ads to monetize the free ChatGPT crowd. OpenAI rolled out Frontier, a one-stop platform to coordinate AI tools and autonomous AI co-workers for enterprises. Anthropic replied with updates to its Cowork assistant aimed at automating legal research and drafting. Analysts say both are betting on being platform companies, a move that draws fire from rivals and highlights the push to sell AI to executives rather than just consumers.

Google Pixel Watch 3 falls to record low on Amazon as older-gen models clear out

February 5, 2026, 1:18 PM EST. Google's Pixel Watch 3 is now on Amazon for $219, down from $300, about 27% off. The 45 mm Android smartwatch sports a 1-inch AMOLED display, circular aluminum shell, and an Obsidian strap. Fitbit integration powers running and training tools, with real-time coaching, custom workouts, and performance insights. Google AI suggests workouts based on past results, current fitness, and goals, while cardio load and readiness scores help plan intensity. The watch tracks heart rate, sleep, stress, and offers ECG health monitoring, plus automatic fall detection that can alert emergency contacts. It also offers a 24-hour battery life, always-on display, and supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS. Amazon is clearing out older-gen models as the Pixel Watch 3 gains attention at a lower price.

Starfish Space selects Quindar for Otter mission operations software

February 5, 2026, 1:16 PM EST. WASHINGTON – Quindar, a Denver-based mission management software provider, has been selected by Starfish Space to support the first three Otter missions. Quindar will supply cloud-hosted software to track spacecraft, send commands and automate routine ground operations, offering an alternative to bespoke, in-house mission control systems. Starfish Space, based in Kent, Washington, builds Otter for rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) with client satellites, enabling services such as life extension, inspection and deorbiting. Austin Link, Starfish co-founder, said Quindar's platform enables execution of complex missions in orbit. Quindar CEO Nate Hamet emphasizes reducing ground-operations costs by offering mission management as a service. The platform also automates tasks such as reserving antenna time from commercial ground stations, tying Starfish to shared infrastructure.

Wolfe upgrades Zoom to outperform on renewed growth, AI monetization prospects

February 5, 2026, 1:14 PM EST. Wolfe Research upgraded Zoom to outperform from peer perform, with a new $115 target that implies about a 27% rally from current levels. Analyst Alex Zukin argues that Zoom's growth profile is reaccelerating as Contact Center strength and sustained mid-teens growth in Zoom Phone, plus emerging Voice AI monetization, improve durability. The firm notes Zoom's balance sheet – about $8 billion of net cash today and roughly $3.9 billion more over the next two years – could support growth-accretive M&A in adjacencies like Voice AI and Contact Center software. Wolfe says the stock's valuation, at under 10x the 2027 free cash flow, discounts platform expansion and AI upside. With confidence rising in these drivers, Zukin contends that ZM could see earnings growth and multiple expansion ahead.

Android 16 February 2026 security patch ships with few fixes

February 5, 2026, 1:12 PM EST. Google has started rolling out the February 16, 2026 security patch for Android 16. The bulletin stands out for what it omits: only one confirmed fix, CVE-2026-010, a High-severity Elevation of Privilege (EoP) vulnerability in the VPU driver-a flaw that could let attacker code run with higher permissions. No issues are listed in the framework, system, kernel, or media components. The patch lands on Pixel devices via OTA; other OEMs will follow once Google's patches are merged. For Pixel users, this is a maintenance release with no new features. Install to keep the security baseline current. Beta tests for Android 16 QPR3 are anticipated later; they emphasize stability, not new UI changes. Enrolling in the beta program is possible, but not advised for a main device.

SQC launches Quantum Twins silicon-qubit simulator with 15,000 qubits

February 5, 2026, 1:10 PM EST. Silicon Quantum Computing unveiled Quantum Twins™, a quantum simulator built on silicon with 15,000 qubits. The chip uses atomic-scale patterning to 0.13 nanometers precision and models complex quantum systems beyond classical computers. Detailed in Nature, the system showcases SQC's full-stack approach-design, manufacture and testing-in service of materials discovery in superconductivity and novel information storage. The company demonstrated 250,000 qubit registers patterned in eight hours, addressing manufacturing yield concerns, and promotes the 14|15 platform for rapid chip design, production and testing. Founder Michelle Simmons frames Quantum Twins as a practical tool for near-term materials research, while references to their Watermelon quantum-machine-learning system point to an integrated product line.

Opentrons teams with NVIDIA to accelerate AI-enabled laboratory robotics

February 5, 2026, 1:00 PM EST. Opentrons is accelerating AI-driven laboratory robotics by integrating NVIDIA Isaac and NVIDIA Cosmos software with its global fleet of more than 10,000 robotic systems across leading universities and biopharma companies. The collaboration aims to generate real-world training data and close the loop between digital models and wet-lab validation, bridging simulation and execution. BioNeMo underpins model training for biological discovery, while Opentrons provides the standardized physical execution layer to ensure reproducible results. Executions turn experimental designs into data that trains physical AI models, enabling autonomous experiments and faster discovery. CEO James Atwood says the cycle across thousands of labs could compress discovery timelines from years to weeks. NVIDIA's Stacie Calad-Thomson highlights standardized infrastructure as key to AI-driven drug discovery.

Scott Aaronson joins StarkWare as Scientific Advisor to bolster post-quantum security

February 5, 2026, 12:56 PM EST. StarkWare said Prof. Scott Aaronson has joined its Scientific Advisory Board to strengthen its research into post-quantum security for blockchain systems. The appointment pairs Aaronson's work in quantum complexity theory and the limits of quantum computing with StarkWare's focus on STARK-based cryptography. He will help assess post-quantum risks to Bitcoin and digital signatures as large-scale quantum capabilities develop. Aaronson, the Schlumberger Chair at the University of Texas at Austin and founder of its Quantum Information Center, is a leading authority on quantum computers. StarkWare CEO Eli Ben-Sasson said the move aligns with efforts to ensure blockchain security in a future shaped by quantum threats.

AirTag 2 flaw allows quick speaker disablement, raising tampering and privacy concerns

February 5, 2026, 12:54 PM EST. ZDNET's Adrian Kingsley-Hughes reports a teardown of the new AirTag showing the speaker can be disabled in minutes with basic tools. In his test, the unit survived reassembly and still powered up, underscoring concerns that the design is not significantly harder to tamper with. The piece notes that modified AirTags already circulate, raising privacy concerns for Android users and others. Apple could push a firmware update to detect tampering, though the author cautions there is no guaranteed fix. The writer adds he remains fond of AirTags for everyday use, even as he warns about potential misuse and the need for stronger safeguards.

Space-based solar data centers: Musk's plan meets expert skepticism

February 5, 2026, 12:46 PM EST. Elon Musk unveiled plans to orbit up to a million satellites to power massive, solar-powered data centers in space, aimed at expanding artificial intelligence and chatbots while curbing grid strain and rising electricity bills. He tied the effort to a planned IPO merging SpaceX with his AI business. He argued space-based AI is the scalable path, saying it's always sunny in space. But scientists and industry experts warn about steep technical, financial, and environmental obstacles. Critics note that data centers generate heat, and even in space a vacuum traps heat; uncooled chips could overheat, according to Northeastern professor Josep Jornet. Skeptics question feasibility, cost, and the environmental footprint of building, launching, and maintaining orbital infrastructure.

Valve Reconsiders Steam Frame Price and Release Date Amid RAM and Storage Shortage

February 5, 2026, 12:44 PM EST. Valve says RAM and storage shortages are forcing changes to the Steam Frame, Steam Machine, and Steam Controller. In a hardware update, the company says it cannot share exact pricing or launch dates because demand increases from AI and data centers have driven prices higher. Valve still expects to ship all three products in the first half of 2026, but notes the shortages have disrupted the schedule. It previously said the Steam Frame would be cheaper than the Index, though no final price is disclosed. Historical pricing references cited a $1,000 Index kit in 2019 and unconfirmed estimates for the Steam Frame. Leaks from Alza and creator discussions circulated in November. Valve says Steam Frame will run SteamOS and plans to offer dev kits; no first-party VR games are in development.

Apple weighs premium PI film for foldable iPhone display, says The Elec

February 5, 2026, 12:40 PM EST. Apple is reportedly weighing a transparent polyimide (PI) film for the foldable iPhone's touch surface, potentially replacing Samsung's PET film. The Elec cites an industry insider who says Apple has not finalized its foldable-display approach, but a transparent PI film is the likely path. The premium solution would offer higher surface hardness and scratch resistance. Timing remains fluid: a final decision is expected soon, with test production of units beginning around February and mass production around May. The device, nicknamed iPhone Fold, is rumored to cost above $2,000 and debut in the fall alongside the iPhone 18 Pro line. Lens Technology is projected to bond the film to the display during assembly.

Galaxy Watch Ultra proves essential for Galaxy Z Flip 7 owners beyond fitness features

February 5, 2026, 12:36 PM EST. In a hands-on test, the Galaxy Watch Ultra proves valuable beyond fitness metrics. When paired with the Galaxy Z Flip 7, it helps manage a flood of messages by triaging alerts without constant phone unlocking. The reviewer says the Flip's cover screen makes notifications hard to read, and the watch complements that experience, turning the smartwatch into an essential part of the package. For users who aren't keen on health tracking, the pairing changes how often they reach for the phone, offering a practical, distraction-minimizing alternative.

China's internet users reach 1.125 billion as digital economy expands

February 5, 2026, 12:32 PM EST. China's internet user base reached 1.125 billion, illustrating that the digital economy continues to expand. The milestone reflects growing online activity across e-commerce, mobile payments and digital media, with stronger broadband reach helping more people online in both cities and rural areas. Analysts say the trend supports investment in cloud services, artificial intelligence and other digital services that feed consumer demand and business efficiency. Regulators and industry groups remain attentive to data security, competition and privacy amid rapid online growth, which officials say will drive productivity and new business models in the years ahead.

Better ways to discover Android apps beyond sponsored Play Store listings

February 5, 2026, 12:20 PM EST. Discovering new Android apps remains hard despite a large Play Store catalog. The author argues Google favors sponsored content and algorithmic curation over helping users find truly new apps. Frustrated, they assemble a list of third-party apps and websites plus Play Store tips to surface the best recent titles. They note the newly released games row is likely revenue-driven and filled with microtransaction-heavy titles. Before turning to alternatives, they offer Play Store strategies, including scanning midway sections, though visibility remains limited. They also point to an AI-assisted search feature for themed queries (US-only for now) and outline how external tools can filter by topics like privacy or productivity. The piece provides practical options to improve app discovery beyond sponsored posts.

Five years on: Apple's AirTag updated with louder chime, longer range and anti-tracking safeguards

February 5, 2026, 12:18 PM EST. Apple's second-generation AirTag arrives five years after the original, offering modest updates while keeping the same price. At US$29 for a single tracker and US$99 for a four-pack, the device adds slightly better wireless range, a louder chime, and location viewing on an Apple Watch without an iPhone. In testing, the changes feel incremental; the AirTag remains a discreet tool for keys, wallets and bags that leverages Apple's Find My network. Apple introduces industry-first protections against unwanted tracking, including cross-platform alerts and frequently changing Bluetooth identifiers. For users with a history of losing items, the updated safeguards address a key concern, though the core use case remains unchanged.

Nvidia H200 exports to China stall on U.S. security review, FT reports

February 5, 2026, 12:08 PM EST. Nvidia's H200 AI chips for China remain blocked by a U.S. national-security review nearly two months after exports were approved, the Financial Times reported. Chinese buyers are pausing orders until licenses clear or conditions are known. The Commerce Department eased export curbs in January but license applications must be reviewed by the State, Defense and Energy departments. The FT says the State Department is pushing tougher restrictions. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said he hopes China will approve the sale and that the license is being finalized. Reuters could not verify the FT report; Nvidia and the State Department did not respond to comment requests. China last month approved its first batch of Nvidia's H200 chips for import, reflecting a shift in stance as it balances AI needs with domestic development.

Maine awarded $48.4 million to extend high-speed internet access

February 5, 2026, 12:02 PM EST. MAINE, USA – The Maine Connectivity Authority was awarded $48.4 million in federal BEAD funding to extend high-speed internet to remaining unreliable areas, the MCA said. The grant aims to connect about 22,000 homes and businesses, on top of roughly 135,000 locations connected since 2021. Andrew Butcher said every unserved area would receive dedicated funding, including rural communities. The BEAD program originally allocated $272 million; in June 2025, NTIA restructured requirements to fund only infrastructure plans, leaving over $200 million undelivered. Butcher hopes those funds will still be issued. NTIA plans to issue guidance in March on whether to deliver, alter, or cut the remaining funds. A virtual listening session is planned to gather input on BEAD funding.

Toyota patents show EV powertrain layouts moving away from battery to free interior space

February 5, 2026, 11:58 AM EST. Toyota is exploring new EV powertrain layouts that move components away from the flat skateboard battery. Two related patents, first spotted by Autoblog and published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in January 2026, show two electromechanical units each with a motor and a power controller, installed either in front of or behind the battery, or in a center tunnel between the front seats. The two-row seating arrangement shown has the second row behind the first. The aim: more interior space and design flexibility, potentially enabling thinner packs and use in sedans or hatchbacks. The filings, dating to summer 2025, could also alter weight distribution and shorten power cables, boosting efficiency. Toyota already uses a dual-motor AWD setup in the bZ Woodland (375 hp). The company did not comment. These are patent disclosures, not production plans.

Apple's Xcode 26.3 adds native Claude Agent SDK integration

February 5, 2026, 11:54 AM EST. Apple's Xcode 26.3 adds a native integration with the Claude Agent SDK, extending the Claude Code platform inside the IDE. Developers can use Claude Agent SDK to run autonomous, long-running tasks, access subagents, background tasks, and plugins without leaving Xcode. The update enables visual verification with Previews for SwiftUI interfaces and lets Claude explore a project's full file structure to understand architecture. It can autonomously break tasks into steps, modify files, search Apple documentation, and iterate until it completes or needs input. The Model Context Protocol exposes Claude capabilities over MCP, and the release is a release candidate today for Apple Developer Program members, with a broader App Store release soon.

Solid-state EV batteries hit US milestone as Factorial launches first commercial program with Karma

February 5, 2026, 11:52 AM EST. Factorial Energy has launched the first commercial solid-state battery program in the United States, teaming with Karma Automotive to equip upcoming ultra-luxury EVs. The partnership relies on FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) quasi-solid-state cells that Karma will use in the Kaveya, a super-coupe aiming for 1,000+ horsepower and sub-3 second 0-60 mph. Mercedes-Benz has already tested Factorial cells in an EQS, driving about 745 miles on a single charge. The arrangement with Karma aims to validate production in the US and accelerate scale, with Factorial claiming 500-600+ miles of range and 40% weight savings versus traditional lithium-ion, plus compatibility with up to 80% of existing manufacturing equipment. The deal marks a milestone in bringing solid-state tech from lab to real-world auto production in the US.

Galaxy S26 pricing leaks show higher prices in France

February 5, 2026, 11:48 AM EST. France is the latest market to leak Galaxy S26 pricing ahead of a rumored February 25 unveiling. The leak for the French lineup shows: S26 256 GB at €999 and 512 GB at €1,199. The 256 GB is €40 above the Galaxy S25, while the 512 GB is €20 higher. The S26 Plus would cost €1,269 for 256 GB and €1,469 for 512 GB, up €100 and €180 respectively versus the S25+. The S26 Ultra starts at €1,469 for 256 GB, with 512 GB at €1,669 and 1 TB at €1,969, a €80 and €140 rise on the 512 GB and 1 TB options. Samsung has not confirmed EU pricing; regional taxes and market dynamics shape the differences. A U.S. path remains unclear, but some predict parity or modest increases given higher memory costs in Europe.

SpaceX seeks FCC approval for 1 million AI data-center satellites; experts skeptical

February 5, 2026, 11:40 AM EST. SpaceX filed with the Federal Communications Commission last week to launch one million satellites that would operate as AI data centers in orbit. The proposal would dwarf the current population of humans-made objects circling Earth and is unlikely to move quickly toward reality. SpaceX argues the plan is environmentally friendly by relying on solar power, but critics cite extreme temperature swings in low Earth orbit and significant heat-management challenges for data centers. The Verge reported the filing, and the idea has sparked comparisons to a Chinese initiative and to SpaceX's xAI venture. Industry officials say the FCC will scale any plan down well before liftoff. With Starlink dominating orbital traffic and limited launch lifespans, feasibility remains in serious doubt.

Samsung ends Galaxy S21 updates as support reaches end of life

February 5, 2026, 11:34 AM EST. Samsung has stopped providing monthly or quarterly updates for the Galaxy S21 series, marking the end of its supported life. The devices, released in 2021, were promised four years of major Android upgrades and five years of security updates. They began with Android 11 and received upgrades through last year, but are now out of the monthly/quarterly cycle. Samsung's support page confirms the Galaxy S21 lineup will receive only the bare minimum of security updates moving forward. The move reflects Samsung's shift to a seven-year update plan for newer models, including the Galaxy S25 and likely the Galaxy S26. For users, upgrading to a device with ongoing security updates is advised.

AppMagic data shows mobile games growth slows in 2025 amid market saturation

February 5, 2026, 11:32 AM EST. AppMagic's latest data shows the mobile games market is losing momentum in 2025. Revenue rose by 0.2% year-on-year, after 3% growth in 2024, while downloads climbed 4.6% versus 6.6% last year, signaling a shift to a more mature, competitive market, the firm said. Growth in the Top 10 mobile games segment is largely stagnating; any gains come from redistributing installs and revenue, such as steadying in the UK, Germany and France offsetting declines in key Asian monetisation markets like South Korea. Strategy games are the sole bright spot, with revenue up 16% and downloads up 15%. Casino and RPG titles weakened. In Latin America, downloads fell in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Argentina, though revenue rose in Argentina (33.2%) and Colombia (23.6%). AI is increasingly used in mobile ads, with 56% of the Top 100 grossing games adopting the tech.

D-Wave and IonQ poised as February bets in quantum computing

February 5, 2026, 11:22 AM EST. Two quantum players, D-Wave and IonQ, are positioned as potential February bets. Quantum computing promises to accelerate certain tasks beyond classical machines, though the systems remain costly and power-hungry. Analysts point to a forecast of about a 34.8% CAGR for the industry from 2025 to 2032 as vendors roll out more capable, cost-efficient systems. D-Wave focuses on quantum annealing hardware and offers its Leap cloud service, with refrigeration needs but simpler operation. IonQ builds universal quantum computers that do not require cryogenics, selling hardware and cloud access across four systems. Revenue projections see D-Wave rising from roughly $26 million to $81 million and IonQ from about $109 million to $317 million by 2027, though current valuations appear high.

FCC clears Logos to deploy up to 4,178 broadband satellites

February 5, 2026, 10:56 AM EST. The FCC granted a partial approval to Logos Space Services to deploy up to 4,178 low Earth orbit satellites across seven shells from 870 to 925 km. The agency allowed operation in K-, Q- and V-band but deferred parts of higher-frequency requests. Logos must place half the constellation within seven years and the rest by Jan. 30, 2035. Founder Milo Medin says only about a quarter of satellites are needed to serve government and enterprise customers globally. Logos raised a $50 million Series A led by USIT; the round backs ventures with civilian and military applications. The company aims first operation around 2027. The plan uses higher-frequency spectrum and high elevation angles to reduce interference, and comes as regulators weigh megaconstellation licensing.

Firebase misconfiguration exposes hundreds of millions of AI chat messages in Chat & Ask AI app

February 5, 2026, 10:54 AM EST. The popular mobile app Chat & Ask AI, with more than 50 million users, exposed hundreds of millions of private conversations after a misconfigured Google Firebase backend. A security researcher, known as Harry, found the database accessible with authentication. He says roughly 300 million messages linked to over 25 million users were exposed; a sample of 60,000 users and more than 1 million messages confirmed the scope. The database stored full chat histories, timestamps, the user's chosen chatbot name, and model settings. Chat & Ask AI acts as a wrapper for large language models from OpenAI, Anthropic and Google (including ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini); the service stores data, not the models themselves. Codeway did not respond. This matters because chats are often treated as private journals.

Stifel downgrades Microsoft on AI spend, Azure concerns

February 5, 2026, 10:52 AM EST. Stifel downgraded Microsoft to a hold from buy, citing heavy AI spending and rising competition. Analyst Brad Reback cut the target to $392 from $540; the stock may fall another ~5% from current levels. He argues Wall Street's earnings and revenue forecasts look too optimistic amid Azure supply issues, strong Google GCP Gemini results, and Anthropic momentum. Reback says near-term Azure growth is unlikely to accelerate; gross margin compression could quicken as capex rises and spend shifts to short-lived compute assets. OPEX growth may track revenue more closely as MSFT increases AI R&D hiring and GPU demand. He sees no near-term catalysts, with shares likely range-bound until Azure accelerates or capex slows. A prior guideline trimmed margins to 45.1%.

Toyota's solid-state EV plan gains momentum as Idemitsu builds electrolyte plant

February 5, 2026, 10:46 AM EST. Toyota's push into solid-state batteries gained momentum after Idemitsu Kosan started building a facility to manufacture solid electrolytes for its packs. The project aims to accelerate production, with the company targeting first-generation cells by 2027-28 and ranges up to about 1,000 km with charging around 10 minutes. Idemitsu has run two smaller demonstration facilities and expects to produce several hundred tons of electrolyte annually once fully ramped, according to Reuters. Toyota is also working with Sumitomo Metal Mining to secure high-performance cathode materials, along with advanced anodes and electrolytes. The plan sits within a broader industry push to bring higher-density, faster-charging cells to market, though timelines remain uncertain.

iOS 26.2.1 bugs surface; battery drain and Face ID issues in latest iPhone update

February 5, 2026, 10:18 AM EST. Apple's iOS 26.2.1 update, released January 26 for devices on iOS 26, is drawing complaints after initial bug fixes. Users report battery drain, slower or failing Face ID, and frequent app crashes or freezes. Some say Safari tabs disappear, and Apple Maps saved places vanish after installation. The update also adds support for the AirTag 2 and addresses minor issues like icon overlaps in Control Center. Downgrades to 26.2 are blocked after Apple stopped signing the older build. While some users on higher-end models report stable performance, others encounter space constraints and connectivity problems. Apple is investigating, with a minority of users affected so far.

AI Chip Market Poised to Hit $1.10 Trillion by 2035 on Edge AI and ASIC Growth

February 5, 2026, 10:14 AM EST. The global AI chip market could reach about USD 1.10 trillion by 2035, according to Precedence Research, with a 27.88% CAGR from 2026 to 2035. The market, rising from USD 121.73 billion in 2026, is being driven by edge AI and ASIC adoption, with CPU-driven revenue still prominent in 2025. North America accounted for roughly 44% of revenue in 2025, while the edge segment generated about 75% of revenue. End users such as BFSI are a major driver, and policy support-exemplified by the CHIPS Act and India's AI compute initiatives-is listed as a tailwind. The report underscores ongoing demand from data centers, smartphones and autonomous systems.

WVU, Chicago researchers tune iron telluride selenide to reach topological superconductivity for quantum computing

February 5, 2026, 10:10 AM EST. WVU physicists and University of Chicago researchers have shown that adjusting the tellurium-to-selenium ratio in iron telluride selenide controls how electrons interact in ultra-thin films, toggling between quantum phases and enabling a topological superconductor. The material combines superconductivity, strong spin-orbit coupling and notable electronic correlations, making it a promising platform for quantum computing. By dialing the chemical recipe, the team observed that increasing tellurium alters electron correlations, a finding supported by computational work from graduate student Christopher Jacobs. The work, published in Nature Communications, identifies a practical control knob for engineering exotic quantum states in a material system with potential for error-resistant quantum devices.

Tesla drops plan for autonomous charging site in downtown San Francisco

February 5, 2026, 10:04 AM EST. Tesla has scrapped its plan to build a mixed-use autonomous charging station at 825 Sansome Street in San Francisco, announced just ahead of a planning commission hearing. The move follows opposition from the Teamsters union, which had filed an appeal and sought unionized staffing for workers at the site. The garage would service 150+ vehicles with 600 amps, enough for two full-power Superchargers, as part of a broader push to support an envisioned autonomous ride-hailing network. Tesla has long promoted Full Self-Driving (FSD) but has not delivered a truly driverless taxi service. CEO Elon Musk has forecast autonomy repeatedly, but timelines remain unfulfilled.

Apple emerges as dark horse in AI race, leveraging vast resources

February 5, 2026, 9:52 AM EST. Apple, long a hardware-focused giant, has lagged in AI but benefits from massive resources. With a market cap near $4.1 trillion, it can pivot quickly. Leadership reshuffles aim to accelerate progress: Amar Subramanya named vice president for AI, reporting to Craig Federighi after John Giannandrea stepped down. Subramanya, who previously worked on Microsoft and Alphabet AI programs, leads a restructuring alongside Federighi. Early indicators show momentum, even as Apple posted robust results: fiscal 2025 revenue $416 billion, net income $112 billion, and Q1 2026 revenue $143.8 billion with the iPhone contributing about 60% of sales. Five-year stock return of about 102% tops the S&P 500's 87%. Apple can recruit talent and acquire startups to accelerate its AI roadmap.

iPhone Fold rumors: Timing, design and price hints for Apple's first foldable phone

February 5, 2026, 9:50 AM EST. Rival rumors say Apple is targeting a late-2026 launch for its first foldable iPhone, potentially alongside the iPhone 18 lineup, with a second model reportedly a clamshell. No official word yet. The book-style design would unfold to about 7.7-7.8 inches, with a 5.5-inch outer screen when closed. CAD leaks and case molds hint at a shorter, wider folded footprint. Thickness could be 4.5-5.6mm unfolded and 9-11mm folded, similar to the iPhone Air chassis. Analysts like Mark Gurman and Ming-Chi Kuo peg the second half of 2026, though a 2027 slip remains possible if hinge or display durability lags. Apple aims to differentiate from rivals such as Samsung and Google with a tuned hinge, software, and price strategy.

MediaTek pivots as memory costs rise; shifts focus from smartphone chips to Smart Edge, ASIC, connectivity and automotive

February 5, 2026, 9:38 AM EST. MediaTek's smartphone chipset revenue topped $10 billion in Q4 2025, accounting for about 59% of total sales as Dimensity 9500 and 8500 drive premium adoption. The dependence on mobile SoCs exposes the company to a 2026 slowdown as DRAM and NAND costs climb, even as it retains a leading position. To diversify, MediaTek is expanding into Smart Edge, expecting 18% YoY growth in Q4 2025, and growing ASIC data-center revenue toward a $1 billion run rate by 2028. In Connectivity, 5G modems and Wi-Fi 7 chips remain in demand, with Wi-Fi 8 on the horizon. The company also targets the automotive sector with ADAS via a DENSO partnership and a collaboration with NVIDIA around N1/N1X chips due in H2 2026. Q1 2026 guidance: $4.5-$4.8B.

Samsung could launch a second all-new foldable phone in the US this year

February 5, 2026, 9:22 AM EST. Samsung may roll out a fourth foldable this year, possibly a new Wide Fold model. Spotted by SmartPrix in the GSMA IMEI database, the device carries model SM-F971 and is linked to the Z Fold family. Region codes suggest releases in the United States, China, Canada, Korea, and global markets, with U1 typically indicating the US. Little is known beyond that, but leaks point to a smaller, squarer form factor compared with the Galaxy Z Fold 8. One hint describes a 5.4-inch cover display and a 7.6-inch main screen, with an unfolded aspect of 18:18 (versus 18:9 on older folds). Analysts say it could be Samsung's response to an anticipated iPhone Fold, though details remain uncertain.

DJI Avata 2 Fly Smart Combo drops to $619 on Amazon, lowest in 30 days

February 5, 2026, 9:04 AM EST. DJI cuts the price on its Avata 2 Fly Smart combo to $619 from $729 after a 15% Amazon discount, the lowest in 30 days. The bundle includes the drone, DJI RC Motion 3, DJI Goggles N3, and essentials for an immersive FPV experience, with 360-degree flips and 4K/60fps HDR footage from a 1/1.3-inch sensor. Stability comes from RockSteady and HorizonSteady modes. The goggles are glasses-friendly and offer head tracking for hands-free control. Flight time reaches 23 minutes; PD fast charging speeds up recharging. Video transmission uses a two-transmitter, four-receiver, four-antenna system for stability, and the 46GB built-in storage covers about 90 minutes of 1080p/60 video. The offer ends soon.

Eaton Rides AI Data-Center Boom With Cooling and Power Solutions

February 5, 2026, 8:50 AM EST. Electric equipment maker Eaton is positioned to ride the AI data-center buildout, leveraging power management, cooling, and energy storage. Goldman Sachs says hyperscalers will spend about $500 billion on infrastructure this year, expanding demand for components and services. Eaton's planned acquisition of Boyd Thermal would give it a foothold in liquid cooling, a growth area as AI racks draw 80-100 kW versus 10-15 kW for traditional servers. Management projects a 35% annual growth in the global liquid-cooling market through 2028. In Q3, data-center orders rose 70% YoY; data-center sales up 40%; backlog in Electrical Americas up 20% to $12 billion. The stock trades around 26x forward earnings. A pullback in capex by hyperscalers remains a key risk.

Artemis II delays persist as hydrogen leaks force fueling fixes, pushing launch to 2026

February 5, 2026, 8:44 AM EST. NASA postponed Artemis II's February launch after a fueling and countdown dress rehearsal exposed several issues. Ground teams reported communication dropouts, cold-weather camera impacts, a hatch pressurization valve snag, and persistent liquid hydrogen leaks during tanking. The leaks echo a similar problem that delayed Artemis I in 2022, when the rocket was rolled back for repairs and a valve bolt was tightened on the pad. With fixes underway, the earliest Artemis II liftoff now targets March 6, 2026. The goal remains to complete the crewed lunar mission, decades in the making, while NASA works to close out a string of engineering and ground-support challenges.

Old tablet, new role: how a forgotten device became my favorite work tool

February 5, 2026, 8:40 AM EST. A writer rescues an aging Android tablet from the drawer and finds unexpected utility turning it into a dedicated, single-purpose screen. By dropping high-end expectations for multitasking and games, the tablet becomes a stable work tool for focused tasks. The change comes from aligning use with the device's limits, not upgrading. The result is a lightweight, affordable workstation that travels as a secondary display and keeps Netflix off the desk. The piece highlights a shift from all-purpose use to purposeful design, showing how retro tech can still perform when tasks are crafted around it.

Industry urges Iowa to balance AI innovation with guardrails

February 5, 2026, 8:30 AM EST. Iowa industry leaders urged lawmakers to balance AI innovation with guardrails. At a downtown policy forum, experts said Iowa is a national leader in AI development, underpinned by the technology behind ChatGPT and more than $500 million in related revenue. They warned policy must be predictable to sustain investment as lawmakers consider bills on elections, campaigns and state agencies, including a measure restricting AI-generated content in political campaigns. Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg said policy should protect residents without slowing growth. With concerns about deepfakes and child safety, proponents point to Iowa's existing data privacy law as evidence lawmakers can regulate without overreach, relying on established rules where applicable.

SpaceX's space-based data centers: scale, feasibility and cooling hurdles

February 5, 2026, 8:26 AM EST. SpaceX is pursuing a plan to orbit a data-center network of up to 1 million satellites, aiming to harness sun-synchronous orbits and laser links to supply AI workloads from space. The filing with the FCC outlines orbital shells from 500 to 2,000 kilometers, with near-continuous sun exposure for power. Musk has framed space-based AI data centers as a no-brainer because solar panels and passive radiative cooling would replace water- and active cooling on Earth. Experts warn cooling remains the decisive hurdle: radiators facing away from the Sun and the limits of passive cooling could throttle performance. The project would demand a staggering deployment cadence-potentially hundreds of thousands of satellites per year-and raises questions about cost, reliability, and regulatory approvals amid SpaceX's broader AI and IPO ambitions.

SpaceX challenges Amazon Leo extension, urges FCC to treat as modification

February 5, 2026, 8:10 AM EST. SpaceX accuses Amazon of failing to build Leo on time and asks the FCC to treat its extension as a modification, not a simple extension. Amazon says it may miss the July 30 milestone to launch half of Leo (about 3,200 satellites) and could lose its launch license, seeking more time. SpaceX argues the move would risk interference with Starlink and other systems and should follow existing precedent, citing a 1999 Teledesic decision. With about 180 Leo satellites now, Amazon aims for roughly 700 by late July, a pace SpaceX attributes to launch capacity constraints and re-engineering decisions by Amazon. The dispute continues amid Leo beta tests for select enterprise customers, while SpaceX's Starlink serves millions of users worldwide.

Volkswagen overtakes Tesla as Europe's top EV seller in 2025, JATO data show

February 5, 2026, 8:04 AM EST. Volkswagen edged Tesla to lead Europe's fully-electric car market in 2025, according to JATO Dynamics. VW BEVs rose 56% year over year, led by the new ID.7, while Tesla registrations fell 27%. VW sold 274,278 BEVs in Europe; Tesla 236,357, per JATO. The shift comes after BYD dethroned Tesla as the world's top EV maker last year. Tesla faces stiff European competition from traditional automakers and rising Chinese rivals, and criticism over Musk's European political endorsements. EVs advanced in 2025, with fully-electric car registrations up 29%, while overall car registrations rose 2.3% across 28 European markets, including Norway, Switzerland and Britain, excluding Bulgaria and Malta.

Vitalist taps Pattern to expand Reebok smartwatch online sales

February 5, 2026, 8:02 AM EST. Vitalist has struck a strategic distribution agreement with Pattern to expand global online sales of Reebok-branded smartwatches. Pattern will be the exclusive distributor for Reebok across major digital marketplaces, as part of ABG's global e-commerce marketplace accelerator. The deal also ties into ABG's Premier TikTok Shop partnership with Pattern, and Vitalist will use Pattern's enterprise systems and US/Canada warehousing. Pattern's AI-powered Predict tool will help monitor unauthorised sellers and maintain pricing discipline. Financial terms were not disclosed. ABG appointed Pattern to manage e-commerce for more than 50 brands in December 2025. Kalvie Legat, Vitalist CEO, says the arrangement leverages the Authentic portfolio and bypasses years of organic e-commerce growth by plugging into a marketplace engine. Separately, ABG completed a deal to take Guess? private and gain a majority stake in its IP.

Apple's Super Bowl arc: from 1984 ad to halftime sponsorship

February 5, 2026, 7:58 AM EST. Apple has built a long-running tie-in with the Super Bowl, dating back to the 1984 '1984' Macintosh commercial directed by Ridley Scott. The ad introduced the Macintosh and helped redefine the tentpole ad as a high-concept, high-spend event. Since then, Apple has shifted toward sponsorship of the halftime show, most recently in 2023, leveraging Apple Music and top artists such as Rihanna and Bad Bunny to keep the brand at the cultural center of the game. The mix underscores Apple's strategy: blend technology with culture to extend product relevance beyond devices.

AI Usage Control: A Buyer's Guide to Closing the Shadow AI Governance Gap

February 5, 2026, 7:56 AM EST. Enterprises face an epidemic: AI is embedded across SaaS, browsers, and shadow tools, but governance lags. The guide argues risk isn't a data problem or app problem, but an interaction problem-control must happen at the moment of AI use. Traditional tools sit outside where AI interactions occur, leaving a gap that grows as users switch between corporate and personal AI identities. AI Usage Control (AUC) introduces a new governance layer: discovery and enforcement at the point of interaction, driven by contextual risk signals rather than static allowlists. It asks not only what data left the tool, but who used AI, through which tool, in which session, with what identity and conditions, and what happened next. Companies must shift from tool-centric controls to interaction-centric governance to reduce risk while preserving innovation.

Tower Semiconductor and NVIDIA Advance AI Infrastructure with 1.6T Optical Modules

February 5, 2026, 7:54 AM EST. Tower Semiconductor is scaling AI infrastructure with high-performance silicon photonics for 1.6T data-center optical modules designed for NVIDIA networking protocols. The solution, built on Tower's SiPho platform, can deliver up to double the data rate versus prior silicon photonics, boosting bandwidth and AI throughput. CEO Russell Ellwanger says the company will continue investing in its SiGe and silicon photonics platforms to meet growing data-center and AI requirements. NVIDIA Senior VP Gilad Shainer emphasizes collaboration to connect AI infrastructure with high-speed, scalable networking and accelerate applications at scale. Tower frames SiPho as a foundation for AI infrastructure, data-center networking and telecom, with design enablement and multi-fab sourcing to support customers.

Amazon bets on in-house AI chips to lift AWS growth and stock

February 5, 2026, 7:48 AM EST. Amazon's cloud leadership remains the hinge on whether AWS growth reaccelerates. The keystone: in-house custom AI chips, notably Trainium3 launched at AWS Re:Invent after Trainium first appeared in 2020. Amazon says price performance-more compute per dollar-defines customer value and a strategic edge. AWS's revenue growth is forecast at 19.1% for 2025 to $177.78 billion, while rivals Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud post faster expansions of 26.1% and 35.8% to $120.85 billion and $58.71 billion, respectively. Competitors highlight the race: Microsoft unveiled Maia 200; Google uses TPUs to power Gemini 3. Lower data-center electricity use and cheaper AI compute sit at the core. Investors will watch AWS's guidance on spending versus growth as the company eyes AI-driven expansion and stock reacceleration.

Amazfit Active Max review: A leading budget smartwatch for 2026

February 5, 2026, 7:40 AM EST. Active Max raises the bar for budget smartwatches at $169.99. It slots in above the earlier Amazfit Active with a tougher build, a brighter 1.5-inch AMOLED display and detachable straps for customization. The watch delivers up to 25 days of battery life and supports 170+ workout modes, making it competitive with models far pricier. Reviewers note strong value for money, with further perks like a comfortable fit and straightforward software. A few cautions: the color options are limited to black, and there's a single screen size, which may not suit petite wrists or those seeking more style. Still, the Active Max positions itself as a leading budget smartwatch choice in 2026, offering extensive fitness tracking without a high price.

Galaxy S26 Ultra reportedly lacks built-in magnets, requires magnetic case

February 5, 2026, 7:36 AM EST. A prominent leaker, Ice Universe, claims the Galaxy S26 Ultra will not include built-in magnets, reversing earlier leaks that pointed to integrated Qi2 magnets. Instead, buyers would need to purchase a magnetic case to enable magnetically attached accessories and Qi2 MPP charging. The claim follows past notes that the Galaxy S25 Ultra's S Pen had issues with magnetic accessories, implying compatibility hurdles. Ice Universe did not mention the S26 or S26 Plus, but a lack of built-in magnets across the line would not be surprising if verified. The shift contrasts with Google's Pixel 10 series, which adopted Qi2 magnets. Separately, leaks suggest faster wireless charging across the lineup, with the base at roughly 45W wired and the Ultra at 60W.

Nvidia, Dassault Systèmes fuse digital twins and AI to build industrial world models

February 5, 2026, 7:34 AM EST. Tech players Nvidia and Dassault Systèmes are tying together digital twins and AI to build an industrial world model. Nvidia uses Dassault's MBSE to design and simulate its own data centers, even running the network and supercomputers inside the virtual twin before ground is broken. Huang said this approach saves 'tons of time and tons of money,' and envisions virtual twins of AI factories that train and update models continuously. Industry analyst Bill Curtis called the effort an 'extraordinarily complex' industrial physical AI computing stack – a physics-validated digital-twin world model that runs on AI-accelerated Nvidia infrastructure, enabling customers to design, validate and operate factories, products and even biological systems in virtual space before and after they exist physically.

SpaceX buys xAI to pursue orbital data center constellation

February 5, 2026, 7:30 AM EST. SpaceX confirmed it has acquired xAI, Elon Musk's AI venture, to build an orbital data center constellation. The plan, outlined in an FCC filing, envisions a high-bandwidth, optically linked fleet of solar-powered satellites, potentially up to 1 million units, operating between 500 and 2,000 kilometers in several orbital shells, and designed to power advanced AI compute on Earth and in space. The filing describes unprecedented computing capacity and notes SpaceX has sought authority to deploy the network as a data center in orbit, signaling a potential pathway to funding for a future IPO. Analysts, including Tim Farrar, warn the concept is speculative and hinges on engineering challenges like latency and space-born hardware reliability. X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, remains part of the group via xAI.

Valve's Steam Machine, Steam Frame face pricing ambiguity as memory shortages bite

February 5, 2026, 7:26 AM EST. Valve said it cannot confirm pricing or exact launch dates for the Steam Machine and Steam Frame amid broader memory shortages that have worsened since late 2025. The company cited limited availability and rising component costs as reasons to revisit shipping timelines. While the hardware remains planned for an early-2026 rollout, Valve warned that higher prices may accompany a PC-style configuration, with initial estimates around $700-$800 likely to shift. Valve stressed the Steam Machine can reach 4K at 60 frames per second with FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) enabled, though some titles may require upscaling from 1080p and enabling VRR (variable refresh rate) for smooth gameplay. The firm also confirmed CAD files for the faceplate and accessible, upgradeable SSD and memory, and said third-party accessories can be built on open specs.

Former UT professor sought Epstein funding for AI research in 2009, DOJ release shows

February 5, 2026, 7:20 AM EST. Emails released by the U.S. Department of Justice show that Itamar Arel, then a tenured UT Knoxville associate professor of electrical engineering and computer science, reached out to Jeffrey Epstein in 2009 to seek funding for artificial intelligence research. The outreach followed Epstein's 2008 conviction for procuring a child for prostitution and his registration as a sex offender. Arel, who later moved to Silicon Valley and described his work as deep learning and reinforcement learning, was copied on messages describing proposals and funding pitches. UT officials say Arel is no longer employed by the university. The exchanges, tied to a Rockville, Maryland-based AI company, suggest collaboration on projects funded by Epstein's network, though the DOJ release provides limited detail on outcomes.

Vantor wins $5.3 million NGA contract to detect terrain changes with commercial satellite data

February 5, 2026, 7:18 AM EST. WASHINGTON – Vantor, a commercial Earth observation operator, said Feb. 5 it won a $5.3 million contract from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) to detect real-time terrain changes and deliver automated insights. The Westminster, Colorado-based company, formerly Maxar Intelligence, operates a high-resolution satellite constellation and partners to fuse electro-optical (EO) imagery with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data. Under the Luno B task order, Vantor will combine its own sensors with third-party EO and SAR systems to identify changes in infrastructure and land use. The award follows a prior Luno A win and is part of NGA's program to tap unclassified commercial geospatial intelligence and AI. Susanne Hake, Vantor's executive VP, cautioned that multi-sensor alignment is essential for accurate change detection.

Apple's iPhone comeback in China spurred by subsidies and upgrades

February 5, 2026, 7:10 AM EST. Apple reported a 38% year-over-year revenue rise in China last quarter, reversing an 18-month slide. CEO Tim Cook said iPhone upgrades reached a record among Chinese users and there was double-digit growth in customers switching from other operating systems to iOS. The rebound centers on the iPhone 17, priced to qualify for Beijing's 2025 subsidies. The subsidy program offers up to 15% discounts for phones under 6,000 RMB; Apple priced the iPhone 17 at 5,999 RMB. Beijing spent about $43 billion on subsidies to spur electronics purchases, helping Apple regain momentum in the market amid competition from Huawei and Xiaomi.

SpaceX shifts Crew Dragon launches from Kennedy Space Center to Canaveral as Artemis II prep continues

February 5, 2026, 7:08 AM EST. SpaceX has shifted most Crew Dragon activity away from Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A to nearby Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Space Launch Complex 40. Through 2025 it has flown seven times from SLC-40 and zero from KSC. A large crane has appeared at 39A, fueling speculation the crew access arm will be removed as the company retools for future launches from Canaveral. SpaceX executives say the manifest prioritizes Falcon 9 and Dragon missions from Canaveral, with Falcon Heavy and Starship work concentrated at CCSFS. Artemis II remains slated for liftoff from Pad 39B no earlier than March, pending a successful wet dress rehearsal after a hydrogen leak delayed checks. The shift marks a departure from the era when KSC hosted most crewed missions.

India's female content moderators watch abusive content to train AI, revealing emotional toll

February 5, 2026, 7:02 AM EST. At her Jharkhand village home, 26-year-old Monsumi Murmu logs in as a content moderator (a worker who reviews user-generated material to enforce platform rules) to classify flagged images and videos. She sees up to 800 items a day, watching to the end so AI can learn from the data. The work fuels a growing, largely female, ghost workers population who operate from rural corners of India. Murmu recalls sleep disturbance and dreams of violence; now she says she feels blank after the worst clips. Researchers say this numbness marks a broader psychosocial toll-chronic anxiety, insomnia and vigilance. In 2021, about 70,000 Indians did data annotation (labeling data to train AI), a market near $250 million. Experts urge stronger support and protections for moderators.

Lenovo cuts price on Android tablet to $260, touts 12.7-inch 3K display and 144Hz refresh

February 5, 2026, 7:00 AM EST. Lenovo is discounting its Android tablet, the Idea Tab Pro, to $260 from $390. The 12.7-inch display carries a 3K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. Inside, a MediaTek 8300 chip is paired with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, with microSD expansion. The battery is rated for up to 11 hours, and cameras include a 13MP rear and 8MP front. Lenovo positions the tablet as a bridge between phones and laptops, citing solid build quality and a big display. The price cut is direct from Lenovo, making this an attractive option for shoppers seeking performance at a discount.

Infy resumes C2 infrastructure after Iran internet blackout ends

February 5, 2026, 6:56 AM EST. The Iranian threat group Infy (Prince of Persia) has resumed operations, rebuilding its C2 infrastructure as Iran's internet blackout ends. SafeBreach said the group halted C2 activity on January 8, then reappeared January 26 with new servers, just before Tehran eased restrictions. The move signals a state-backed actor continuing espionage campaigns. The researchers noted updates to the toolkit, including newer versions of Foudre and Tonnerre, with Tornado (Tonnerre v50) and a new Tornado v51 that uses both HTTP and Telegram for C2. The group reportedly uses two domain-generation methods: a new DGA and fixed names via blockchain data de-obfuscation. They weaponized a Windows flaw in WinRAR (CVE-2025-8088 or CVE-2025-6218) to deliver Tornado payloads. RAR archives appeared on VirusTotal in December 2025.

Palantir's Sankar: AI should strip bureaucracy and empower workers

February 5, 2026, 6:52 AM EST. Palantir Technologies' chief technology officer Shyam Sankar argues AI should be viewed as a tool to dismantle bureaucracy rather than a threat to jobs. In a Fox News Digital interview, he said AI could reverse a century-long managerial revolution by reducing coordination costs and flattening hierarchies, returning agency to frontline workers. He warned against using AI governance or other centralized controls that concentrate power, saying such moves slow progress. Instead, AI should empower workers to move faster, and identify deadweight loss in daily routines where administrative tasks hinder performance-an area where automation can help, such as nursing handovers in healthcare. Analysts forecast AI transforming the workforce by 2050, with up to 60% of roles needing adaptation.

Pokémon GO Tour Kalos Los Angeles and Tainan: Mega Night, Notable Trainers and New Routes

February 5, 2026, 6:48 AM EST. During Pokémon GO Tour: Kalos in Los Angeles and Tainan, ticket holders can meet community members and notable Trainers. In Los Angeles, Mega Night features DJ GlitchxCity, known for video game remixes, with participation restricted to ticket holders. Daily meet-and-greets run 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. PST and 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. PST; access requires a valid ticket to enter Rose Bowl Stadium or Brookside Golf Course. Across both host cities, Community Ambassadors designed brand-new Routes offering local food, entertainment, culture recommendations. Routes also award bonuses, including Zygarde Cells and a Mateo encounter after completing up to 25 routes per day.

Valve to offer prescription lens inserts for Steam Frame ahead of 2026 launch

February 5, 2026, 6:38 AM EST. Valve says the Steam Frame VR headset is planned for the first half of 2026, with prescription lens inserts expected ahead of launch. The company notes some team members wear glasses and use the headset without issue, but fit depends on frame width. Valve has not confirmed whether inserts will be official or third-party, though Zeiss-like options are common in competing headsets. The device weighs around 440 grams, about 75 grams lighter than Quest 3/3S, underscoring a focus on comfort. Bastiaan Olij of Godot XR, who tested a dev kit, praised the comfort and said he'll likely get lenses later. Valve has signaled more updates and content in the run-up to launch, revising the timeline from Early 2026 to first half of the year.

Vivo X300 Ultra specs tipped: 6.82-inch LTPO OLED, 7,000mAh battery, 200MP cameras

February 5, 2026, 6:36 AM EST. Tipsters outline the Vivo X300 Ultra (model V2562) specs, with a 6.82-inch LTPO OLED 2K display and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. The device reportedly packs a 7,000mAh battery supporting 100W wired and 40W wireless charging, plus an IP69 rating, ultrasonic fingerprint sensor and USB 3.2 Type-C. On the rear, a 200MP main Sony LYT901 sensor pairs with a 200MP Samsung HPB periscope telephoto, a 50MP Sony LYT828 ultrawide and a 5MP multispectral sensor. The tipster claims continuous optical zoom and a 50MP selfie AF camera. Most details have circulated before, with continuous optical zoom highlighted as the standout novelty. Attribution: Gadgetsdata on X via a tipster.

Five ways to AI-proof your job in the age of automation

February 5, 2026, 6:34 AM EST. As AI reshapes many roles, workers are urged to focus on tasks machines struggle with. The piece outlines five practical steps: upskill with data literacy and AI-awareness; sharpen problem-solving and critical thinking to handle complex tasks; emphasize soft skills such as communication and collaboration that complement technology; build a cross-functional network and seek roles that blend human judgment with automation; stay agile with lifelong learning, and regularly update tools proficiency. The guidance is general and adaptive, reflecting rapid tech change and the need to remain relevant as automation expands.

Pixel Watch 4 goes on sale for $299.99; LTE adds satellite SOS and faster charging

February 5, 2026, 6:26 AM EST. Google's Pixel Watch 4 hits another price cut, with the 41mm Wi-Fi model listed at $299.99-its lowest price yet, according to price trackers. The LTE versions sell for $399.99 (41mm) and $449.99 (45mm). The watch adds a faster charging dock, a rounder display at 320 PPI, and higher brightness up to 3,000 nits. A standout feature on LTE models is satellite SOS, which can alert emergency services with a view of the sky, even without cellular service. Reviewers like Beth Skwarecki praised the design and endurance, noting a 15-minute charge to 50% and roughly 30 minutes to full. Features overlap with Pixel Watch 3 but improve speed, sleep tracking, health sensors, and Gemini voice control.

Jim Valenti named Director of the Office of Low Earth Orbit Observations

February 5, 2026, 6:24 AM EST. Jim Valenti has been appointed as Director of the Office of Low Earth Orbit Observations (LEO). He most recently served as Assistant Director for the Office of Geostationary Earth Orbit Observations (GOES) from 2022-2025, overseeing ground and flight projects. Before that, he was the Project Manager (2012-2021) and Assistant Project Manager (2010-2011) for the GOES-R Ground Segment. Earlier in NOAA's NESDIS, he led the POES Engineering Team and later the Ground System Division for NPOESS. Prior to NOAA, he was a Space Operations Officer in the U.S. Air Force, managing the NUDET Detection System data processing and serving with the DMSP program. He holds a Master of Space Operations from the Air Force Institute of Technology and a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Penn State.

Tesla patents printed circuit glass to replace wiring harness, shrink camera housing

February 5, 2026, 6:22 AM EST. Tesla has filed a patent that turns windshield glass into a circuit board by printing conductive traces on the surface. The December 4, 2025 publication of US 2025/0368012 A1 describes replacing traditional wiring harnesses with a silver-based conductive paste that is fired onto the glass at temperatures above 600°C, fusing the trace to the substrate. The resulting printed circuit glass is designed for extremely low resistance, enabling power and data transmission without the energy losses of conventional cables. Tesla says the approach could power top-of-windshield sensors, including ADAS cameras, rain sensors, and heater elements for the windshield wiper's parked position, as well as an electrochromic rearview mirror. The technique may also allow more flexible sensor placement and reduce bulky housing behind the rearview mirror, improving reliability by eliminating rattling from headliner wiring.

Canon unveils RF 14mm f/1.4L VCM ultra-wide with rear-filter support

February 5, 2026, 6:18 AM EST. Canon announced the RF 14mm f/1.4L VCM, a fast ultra-wide with a Voice Coil Motor (VCM) autofocus system for video and stills. The lens offers an f/1.4 aperture-the fastest 14mm in Canon's mirrorless lineup-and adds a rear gel filter slot for filters. It is weather-sealed with Fluorine coatings, has a built-in lens hood, and weighs about 475 grams at 109 mm long. It uses a de-clickable aperture ring and includes a custom control ring and a Function button for quick adjustments. The design mirrors Canon's other VCM lenses to ease swaps on gimbals. Preorders are open ahead of general availability. The lens targets astro-landscape shooters and filmmakers seeking fast, wide coverage in a compact package.

SpaceX company town forms its own police squad, triggering privacy and governance questions

February 5, 2026, 6:16 AM EST. SpaceX is establishing a private security unit within its company town to handle on-site law enforcement and safety, according to people familiar with the matter. The move, focused on access control and employee safety, is drawing scrutiny from local officials, civil-rights groups and labor advocates who warn about private policing outside traditional public enforcement. SpaceX says the police squad will support security and emergency response within its facilities, while remaining under company oversight. Critics warn that private policing can blur accountability and complicate interactions with public police. The development underscores broader questions about governance, civil liberties and the role of tech firms in shaping town life.

SpaceX launches GPS III-SV09 for U.S. Space Force; fastest national-security GPS turnaround

February 5, 2026, 6:14 AM EST. SpaceX launched GPS III-SV09, an advanced, jam-resistant satellite for the U.S. Space Force, built by Lockheed Martin, from Cape Canaveral on Jan. 27. The Falcon 9 lifted off after weather delays, delivering a GPS III mission with M-Code protection designed to resist jamming. SV09 is the ninth of ten planned satellites; the final one is expected later this year. The launch plan shifted from Vulcan Centaur to Falcon 9, a move Space Force officials said reflected program flexibility. SpaceX says SV09 achieved a 41-day turnaround-the fastest national-security GPS delivery to date. The satellite is named after former astronaut Ellison Onizuka, and the next GPS IIIF satellites are slated to begin launching in Spring 2027.

India's cloud computing growth to 2033: SaaS, virtualization and data protection drive expansion

February 5, 2026, 5:54 AM EST. India's cloud computing market is expanding rapidly as digital transformation accelerates across sectors. Cloud infrastructure is becoming the backbone of growth, with enterprises moving workloads to reduce costs, scale operations, and improve security. The fastest-growing service is SaaS, adopted for customer relationship management, enterprise resource planning, HR, and collaboration tools. Virtualization helps firms optimize resources and enable real-time, flexible data centers. Cloud data backup and disaster recovery have become essential amid rising cyber threats and stricter data regulations. The Information Technology Act and amendments provide regulatory clarity that supports cloud adoption and data localization. From startups to multinationals, players are sharpening cloud strategies, setting the stage for extended growth through 2033.

China warns of security risks linked to OpenClaw open-source AI agent

February 5, 2026, 5:48 AM EST. China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology issued a security alert warning that improper deployment of the open-source AI agent OpenClaw could expose systems to cyberattacks and data leaks. The warning said recent monitoring found high security risks when OpenClaw is left at default or poorly configured settings. OpenClaw, formerly known as Clawdbot or Moltbot, is an open-source AI agent that combines large language models with multi-channel communication to create customizable AI assistants with persistent memory and autonomous execution. The alert urges users to review deployments and configuration practices to mitigate risks.

PostScriptum launches Qutwo, AI platform for quantum computing

February 5, 2026, 5:46 AM EST. PostScriptum has launched Qutwo OS, an AI development platform aimed at accelerating enterprise quantum computing. The venture unites more than 30 scientists from IQM, Silo AI, UC Berkeley, UCL and Aalto University to build AI tools tailored for a quantum future. Qutwo OS already serves customers in finance, energy, logistics and e-commerce, the company said. The push comes as Europe seeks to strengthen its position in quantum tech and AI amid a rapid shift toward a hybrid-quantum era, in which quantum and classical systems collaborate to improve performance. Peter Sarlin described the effort as leveraging proven infrastructure and leading talent. Finland's quantum landscape remains competitive, with industry veterans and researchers calling the project a potential growth driver.

Siemens acquires Canopus AI to boost AI and HPC capabilities

February 5, 2026, 5:44 AM EST. Siemens acquires Canopus AI, signaling a push to strengthen AI and HPC capabilities for industry and research. The move complements a membership-driven platform that draws 12,000+ scientists, engineers, and IT professionals seeking insights into HPC, AI, and lab informatics. Subscribers gain curated content for life sciences, engineering, and academia, plus access to real-world computing breakthroughs, free reports, panels such as the Lab Informatics Guide, and white papers and software updates for smarter research. The service emphasizes data protection under its privacy policy.

Pony AI to hold extraordinary general meeting on April 2, 2026

February 5, 2026, 5:42 AM EST. Pony AI Inc. said it will hold an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) on April 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Beijing time, at its Guangzhou facility. On the same date and site, it will host Class A Meeting and Class B Meeting to consider the class-based Resolution in the EGM notice. The board backs the proposed resolutions. Notices and proxy forms are on pony.ai's investor site. Holders of record of ordinary shares as of February 27, 2026 (Hong Kong time) may attend and vote; ADS holders must provide voting instructions to Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas. Pony AI, founded in 2016, markets autonomous driving tech globally with its PonyWorld world model and Virtual Driver, pursuing Robotaxi and Robotruck services and licensing.

Context engineering emerges as the new AI architecture

February 5, 2026, 5:40 AM EST. Context engineering is the practice of shaping what information an AI model sees before it responds. It goes beyond formatting prompts and instructions, designing the entire environment: grounded data, schemas, tools, constraints, policies, and how information enters the model's input. In practice, it emphasizes a small set of high-signal tokens that raise the odds of a high-quality outcome. Prompt engineering, by comparison, remains a predecessor discipline focused on wording and sequence. Context engineering expands the scope to architecture and orchestration, treating the prompt as one layer in a system that selects, structures, and delivers information so an LLM can complete its task. The context window is the total information the model can process, built from multiple layers that guide behavior and enable tooling, memory, and rules.

Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase set for February 5, 2026

February 5, 2026, 5:36 AM EST. Nintendo has announced a Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase for February 5, 2026. The presentation will last about 30 minutes and focus on third-party titles headed to Switch 2 and Switch 1. It will stream on the Nintendo of America YouTube channel, regional variants, and the Nintendo Today app. Start times vary by region: 2pm GMT, 3pm CET, and 6am PT. In the run-up, publishers are expected to reveal or update titles, though Nintendo did not specify exact names. Possible entries include major third-party games such as Elden Ring, The Duskbloods, The Adventures of Elliot, and Professor Layton and The New World of Steam; amiibo plans for Resident Evil Requiem and Pragmata could accompany the showcase. Ports are considered likely on the new hardware.

CATL Dominates Global EV Battery Market in 2025, SNE Research Finds

February 5, 2026, 5:34 AM EST. CATL extended its dominance of the global EV battery market in 2025, growing production to 464.7 GWh and lifting its share to about 39.2%, according to SNE Research. The overall battery market rose 31.7% to 1,187 GWh, led by CATL's December strength. BYD rose 27.7% to 194.8 GWh and held about 16.4% of the market, while LG Energy Solution slipped to sub-10% share as growth skewed toward Chinese rivals. Combined, CATL and BYD accounted for roughly 55% of global production. Other top players included CALB, Gotion High-Tech, SK On, Panasonic, Eve Energy, Samsung SDI, and Svolt Energy, with most showing single-digit shares. BYD's momentum slowed in late 2025 compared with the January-August period, after earlier rapid gains.

Analysts weigh Wix.com's AI push as the Wix story evolves

February 5, 2026, 5:32 AM EST. Wix.com's latest fair-value update trims the target to $158.20 from $164 and nudges the discount rate to 12.6%. Long-run revenue growth is raised to 13.0% from 12.83%, signaling constructive top-line momentum even as spending and execution concerns linger. Analysts explain the balance between AI investments and near-term margins. Bulls – RBC Capital, Oppenheimer, Evercore ISI and Cantor Fitzgerald – keep Outperform or Overweight ratings, noting Base44 (the AI compute platform) contributed to Creative Subscriptions and core strength plus new cohort momentum. Price targets were cut as forecasts adjust, not views on growth. Bears cite higher AI costs, Base44 compute, marketing spend and a delayed AI self-creator launch, which pressure EBIT (earnings before interest and taxes), margins, and free cash flow.

US study links smartphone ownership and earlier access to depression, obesity and sleep loss in early adolescence

February 5, 2026, 5:30 AM EST. A US study using data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development project finds smartphone ownership at age 12 linked to higher odds of depression (31%), obesity (40%), and insufficient sleep (62%). Of children without a phone at 12, many acquired one by 13; new smartphone owners showed greater odds of clinical mental-health symptoms and sleep problems. After adjusting for baseline conditions, ownership and earlier access were tied to a 57% rise in psychological symptoms and a 50% rise in insufficient sleep. Earlier acquisition also correlated with obesity (9% per year younger) and sleep loss (8% per year younger). Caregivers reported ownership; researchers tracked participants at ages 12 and 13 to explore these associations.

NVIDIA investigates Windows patch-caused gaming glitches after KB5074109

February 5, 2026, 5:28 AM EST. NVIDIA is investigating reports of black screens and GPU artifacts after Windows 11 patch KB5074109. The issue appears to start after the update, with users on GeForce forums describing instability in games. NVIDIA's Manuel says the company is looking into it and that uninstalling KB5074109 is the current workaround for many. The patch, which Microsoft calls an important security update with more than 114 fixes, also caused non-gaming problems-Remote Desktop issues, Outlook crashes, and boot failures. Some users regain stability by removing the update or using System Restore or Safe Mode. Microsoft has issued hotfixes and workarounds; WindowsLatest credits spotting the problem.

Cruz's satellite licensing bill stalls as Senate panel delays markup

February 5, 2026, 5:26 AM EST. The Senate Commerce Committee did not return to work on Cruz's satellite licensing bill, delaying markup after Democrats raised concerns at a markup that ended without a quorum. Chair Ted Cruz said proceedings would resume "shortly," but the hearing on autonomous vehicles went ahead without the markup. The bill would set time limits, up to 18 months, for the FCC to act on satellite applications. Sen. Maria Cantwell warned against automatic approvals for large constellations and offered an amendment to strike deemed granted language. She questioned whether the FCC could adequately review thousands or even up to a million satellites, referencing SpaceX's proposed constellation of up to 1 million "orbital data centers." Sen. Jacky Rosen proposed and withdrew an amendment tying eligibility to BEAD program compliance. Cruz accused Democrats of opposing Musk; Cantwell favored a narrower House-like approach.

Tech stocks slide as AI threatens SaaS revenues, triggering market-wide selloff

February 5, 2026, 5:24 AM EST. Tech stocks fell as traders reassessed AI's potential to cut revenues across the tech ecosystem. A one-session wipe of about $300 billion in market value underscored the shift. S&P 500 futures were flat after a 0.84% decline on the prior session. SaaS heavyweights bore the brunt: Microsoft, SAP, Salesforce and ServiceNow sank as investors priced in AI-enabled competition. Palantir's CEO and CTO argued that AI can automate enterprise software tasks, threatening recurring SaaS revenues. Jefferies analysts warned AI tools-such as Anthropic's Claude Cowork plug-ins and Palantir's faster SAP migrations-could erode IT services revenues and put downside pressure on Indian tech peers. The debate centers on adoption pace and whether AI can replace core workflows without eroding demand.

Secret dialer codes unlock hidden features on Apple and Google devices

February 5, 2026, 5:20 AM EST. An explainer shows how entering dialer sequences on smartphones can surface diagnostic menus, tools, and system info that Apple and Google don't advertise. The codes vary by model and OS, and can unlock hidden features or testing modes. In some cases they alter settings or affect security; misuse can also impact warranties or performance. The piece cautions these codes are not officially supported and should be used with care. Journalists cite maker manuals and researcher guides to separate safe checks from risky tinkering, noting a gap between vendor disclosures and power-user ambitions. The takeaway: these tricks exist, but they are not necessary for everyday use and carry potential downsides.

Nvidia CEO says Wall Street fears of AI disruption are illogical

February 5, 2026, 5:18 AM EST. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang dismissed Wall Street's fears of AI-driven disruption as illogical, arguing the technology will create value and new opportunities rather than collapse markets. In public remarks, he urged investors to focus on real deployments and fundamentals rather than hype about upheaval.

IBM CEO warns AI could displace some jobs, but upskilling may create new roles

February 5, 2026, 5:16 AM EST. IBM CEO Arvind Krishna says AI will displace some roles but will also create new work through upskilling and reskilling. In a Bloomberg interview, he named call-centre posts as highly likely to fade, along with internal helpdesk roles in IT and HR. He warned that repetitive tasks, such as document matching in accounts payable and accounts receivable, could see about half disappear. Krishna stressed corporate responsibility to train workers for productive roles, pointing to R&D as an example. IBM has boosted R&D hiring by about 10,000 and expects more growth in high-value areas such as generative AI and hybrid cloud. While acknowledging displacement, he argued the net job picture should rise as new roles emerge. IBM executives say AI is already affecting operations, with tools eliminating work of roughly 200 staff.

watchOS 26 adds wrist flick gesture to Apple Watch for hands-free control

February 5, 2026, 5:14 AM EST. watchOS 26 introduces a new hands-free gesture called wrist flick for Apple Watch. The gesture lets users quickly dismiss content by flicking the wrist back and forward, eliminating the need to touch the screen. It complements the existing double tap gesture, introduced with Series 9 in 2023, though wrist flick has been more reliable for the author. The feature can dismiss or silence notifications, apps, phone calls, timers, and alarms. The writer notes growing habit formation and notes it also closes apps previously only possible via Digital Crown, and silences timers and alarms when hands are occupied. Availability covers various models including Ultra 3 and 2, Series 11-9, and SE 3. Readers are invited to try wrist flick and share experiences.

Pichai says Google is Apple's preferred cloud provider to power Gemini-based Apple Foundation Models

February 5, 2026, 5:12 AM EST. Google CEO Sundar Pichai told the fourth-quarter earnings call he is pleased with Google's growing partnership with Apple, calling it an important step for Google's cloud and AI strategy. He said Google is collaborating as Apple's preferred cloud provider to develop the next generation of Apple Foundation Models based on Gemini technology. The multi-year partnership, reportedly worth about $1 billion annually, will power future Siri features and other Apple Intelligence initiatives. Apple's statement framed Google's AI as the most capable foundation for the models, with privacy standards upheld as Apple Intelligence runs on devices and in Private Cloud Compute. DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis said Gemini prevailed after evaluation, with ideas for efficient models usable on edge devices and in robotics.

Three AI stocks to buy now: Nvidia, Broadcom and Micron

February 5, 2026, 5:10 AM EST. Demand for data center chips remains robust as AI spending accelerates. Investors looking to ride the expansion lean toward three names. Nvidia leads AI infrastructure with GPUs, its CUDA software and NVLink interconnect designed for large clusters; the company also pursues turnkey AI factory solutions to speed deployments. Broadcom is a major supplier of ASICs and other building blocks used by hyperscalers crafting custom AI chips, with AI revenue expected to rise as customers like Alphabet and OpenAI rely on its services. Micron supplies high-bandwidth memory that teams with GPUs and ASICs to boost performance, a critical piece as AI workloads scale. The trio reflects how hardware demand for AI compute and memory supports the data center boom.

Starlink launches satellite internet services in Senegal

February 5, 2026, 5:08 AM EST. Starlink has launched satellite internet services in Senegal, with two monthly plans priced at XOF 22,000 and XOF 30,000. Customers must buy dedicated equipment, offered in two versions at XOF 117,000 and XOF 146,000. The service advertises download speeds up to 305 Mbps and upload speeds up to 40 Mbps. The announcement was posted on X by Elon Musk.

Lawhive raises $60 million Series B to expand AI-powered legal services in U.S.

February 5, 2026, 5:02 AM EST. Lawhive, a British startup using an AI operating system to back a network of human lawyers, has raised $60 million in a Series B led by Mitch Rales. Other investors include TQ Ventures, GV, Balderton Capital and Jigsaw. The round follows a $40 million Series A less than a year earlier. Lawhive is a legal services firm, not a pure software company, combining automation of drafting, research and intake with a staffed platform across three regulated firms (two in the U.K., one in Arizona). Revenue tops $35 million, with seven-fold growth in 12 months. It targets the large U.S. consumer legal market-about $200 billion annually-with substantial unmet demand. Proner says the effort aims to democratize legal services.

Macworld Podcast: Apple and the Super Bowl LX

February 5, 2026, 4:56 AM EST. Macworld's episode 969, with Michael Simon, Jason Cross and Roman Loyola, surveys Apple's long ties to the Super Bowl LX and branding around the game, including the iconic "1984" commercial. The panel weighs RAM trends in Macs and whether higher memory thresholds would curb bloated apps as developers confront cost pressures. Listener feedback touches ads, tone and the show's Apple focus. The episode is available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Megaphone, with links to past episodes on Macworld's podcast page.

GitHub adds Claude and Codex AI coding agents to Copilot ecosystem

February 5, 2026, 4:52 AM EST. GitHub is adding Anthropic's Claude and OpenAI's Codex as AI coding agents inside Copilot, GitHub Mobile, and Visual Studio Code in a public preview for Copilot Pro Plus and Copilot Enterprise subscribers. The update anchors GitHub's Agent HQ, letting developers choose Copilot, Claude, or Codex for a task and assign agents to issues or pull requests. Each agent consumes a premium request, and the approach aims to reduce context switching, a goal cited by Mario Rodriguez, GitHub's chief product officer. GitHub already supports rival models in Copilot (Anthropic, Google, xAI, OpenAI). Access to Claude and Codex will expand to more subscription types, with partnerships to bring additional agents to GitHub, Visual Studio Code, and the Copilot CLI. Microsoft researchers are testing Claude Code against Copilot to improve Copilot.

Galaxy S26 Ultra Qi2 charging rumors collapse; leak reveals no built-in magnets

February 5, 2026, 4:48 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra is the focus of a shifted marketing push as teasers move away from the traditional Unpacked invitation. The company has begun releasing feature-specific shorts on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, highlighting camera upgrades and display tech ahead of the launch. The plan signals a soft launch of the promotional campaign, with less emphasis on the event and more on product details. The launch is delayed versus the prior generation, a repercussion of broader supply-chain and memory-chip constraints. The latest chatter about Qi2 wireless charging and built-in magnets has not been substantiated in official materials; rumors have collapsed. Samsung intends to widen late-stage promotion to offset disappointment and maintain consumer interest as the Unpacked invitation goes live.

Samsung tees Galaxy S26 camera capabilities ahead of launch

February 5, 2026, 4:44 AM EST. Samsung begins rolling out teasers for the Galaxy S26 lineup as the launch nears. Short videos tout improved low-light video, zoom, and a hinted camera island design for the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra. Leaked specs meanwhile suggest the S26/S26+ use a 12MP autofocus front camera, 50MP main rear with OIS, a 12MP ultrawide and a 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom. The Galaxy S26 Ultra reportedly adds a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide, a second 10MP telephoto and a third 50MP telephoto with up to 5x optical zoom. All models allegedly support 4K at 60fps and 8K at 30fps via the primary rear camera, with the Ultra enabling 8K on ultrawide and tele; Samsung also touts an Advanced Professional Video format.

System76 outlines COSMIC Epoch 2 and 3 plans, adds Vulkan renderer for Wayland

February 5, 2026, 4:42 AM EST. System76 lays out COSMIC Epoch 2 and Epoch 3 plans for its open-source, Rust-based desktop. Epoch 2 focuses on performance with reactive rendering and CPU reductions of about 60-80%, plus multi-threaded image decoding and parallel GPU image uploads. It also adds window drop shadows for libcosmic, Applet Settings, and a Vulkan renderer for the COSMIC Wayland compositor intended to enable HDR and Night Light. The update targets gaming enhancements and a blur/frosted glass window effect. Epoch 3 proposals include a COSMIC Greeter, workspace animations, continued HDR/Night Light support, gamepad/controller work support, session restoration, SVG cursor support, hotloading applets in the COSMIC panel, per-app volume controls in COSMIC Settings, and LSP-enabled COSMIC Edit with spell checking and splits. No timeline is provided.

SpaceX acquires xAI to push orbital data centers

February 5, 2026, 4:38 AM EST. SpaceX has acquired xAI, Elon Musk's AI company that operates X. The terms were not disclosed; Musk owns a controlling stake in both firms. The deal aims to fuse SpaceX's launch and satellite expertise with xAI's AI tech to advance orbital data centers designed to meet growing AI computing demands. Musk argues terrestrial data centers consume vast power and heat, and that space-based solutions could scale more efficiently. The move follows SpaceX's FCC filing for a constellation of up to one million satellites intended to operate as orbital data centers, powered by solar energy. CFO Bret Johnsen signaled a possible IPO in 2026 to fund such initiatives. Musk's focus on orbital data centers marks a shift from earlier emphasis on becoming multiplanetary.

Garmin Connect iOS outage after 5.21 update, steps to fix

February 5, 2026, 4:36 AM EST. Garmin says an issue with Garmin Connect on iOS emerged after the 5.21 update, breaking syncing with many watches. Android users report normal functionality. Garmin later confirmed a fix in 5.21.1 and laid out steps to re-pair: remove the device from the iPhone's Bluetooth list, select "Forget This Device," toggle Bluetooth off and on, restart both phone and device, put the watch in pairing mode, then re-add in the Garmin Connect app. If that fails, uninstall all Garmin apps, reboot the phone and device, update iPhone software, then reinstall only Garmin Connect and retry pairing. Some users still report disconnections; Garmin issued a further update on 2 February, but frustration persists in user forums.

SpaceX-xAI merger fuels Musk trade ahead of IPO

February 5, 2026, 4:28 AM EST. SpaceX's proposed acquisition of Musk-backed AI startup xAI would value the private firm at about $1.25 trillion, signaling a bid to broaden SpaceX ahead of a likely IPO. Critics inside and outside investors warn it could be self-dealing-using a profitable platform to fund an unprofitable AI venture. Proponents say the merger would diversify SpaceX's product slate and finance, turning it into a broader vehicle for the Musk trade. The timing matters as a historic debut approaches. OpenAI and Anthropic could reassess their own funding and capitalization as big private bets rush to public markets. Musk frames the AI unit as part of a space-first data-center vision, a narrative he has long offered to justify ambitious bets.

Canon unveils RF 7-14mm f/2.8-3.5 L Fisheye Zoom, world's widest 190° zoom

February 5, 2026, 4:24 AM EST. Canon on Tuesday announced the RF 7-14mm f/2.8-3.5 L Fisheye Zoom, billed as the widest 190° zoom for full-frame mirrorless cameras. The lens offers two image-projection modes: at the widest end it yields a circular image with a 180-degree field of view, while at 14mm the image covers the frame with a diagonal 114-degree perspective, enabling both circular and full-frame fisheye effects without changing lenses. It carries weather sealing, Canon's fluorine coatings and a rear drop-in filter holder. Internally, it uses a Leadscrew-type STM focus motor and inner zoom with minimal focus breathing. Canon's MTF diagrams suggest higher contrast and resolution across the frame than the older EF 8-15mm, marking a notable upgrade in fisheye optics.

Samsung Faces Tablet Market Headwinds as Rivals Gain Ground

February 5, 2026, 4:22 AM EST. Samsung posted record Q4 2025 profit driven by memory chips, but its Galaxy Tab sales slipped. Market data firm Omdia shows tablet shipments fell about 9% year over year to 6.44 million, with tablet share slumping to 14.7% from 17.7% a year earlier – a 3-point drop. The wider tablet market rose 9.8%, underscoring Samsung's weakness even as rivals expanded. Apple led with 19.63 million tablets and 16.5% growth; Lenovo rose 36.2% to 3.86 million; Huawei up 14.8%; Xiaomi up 10.1%. Samsung launched the Galaxy Tab S11 and S11 Ultra just before Q4, but the decline persisted. Analysts say the exact reason for Samsung's weakness remains unclear, spanning pricing, positioning, or features, suggesting a rethink of its tablet strategy.

Google Pixel 10a set to launch February 18, 2026, with pre-orders opening the same day

February 5, 2026, 4:18 AM EST. Google has officially teased the Pixel 10a, setting February 18, 2026 as the launch date with pre-orders opening the same day and in-store availability not until March 5. The device is expected to carry a 6.285-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz, 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, and a 5,100mAh battery. Earlier leaks corroborate a Tensor G4 SoC-used in the Pixel 9a but clocked higher-and a starting price around $499. Color options include Obsidian, Fog, Lavender, and Berry. Design echoes the Pixel 9a with a thick-bezeled plastic back and a rear camera bar. Google's promise of 7 years software support remains a selling point, and the Pixel 9a could become a quick bargain after the 10a's debut. Pre-orders begin February 18; retail on March 5.

Memory price surge drags smartphone market, Qualcomm warns; AI push eyed

February 5, 2026, 4:16 AM EST. Qualcomm warned soaring memory prices could slow the smartphone industry, sending its shares down about 11%. On a Q1 2026 revenue of $12.3 billion, a company record, CEO Cristiano Amon cited strong premium smartphone sales and growth in smart glasses, automotive and IoT. He warned that in coming quarters, the handset market will be constrained by memory availability and pricing, especially DRAM, as memory-makers prioritize AI datacenters and curb other production. CFO Akash Palkhiwala said customers are reducing chip inventories and scaling back device plans, a short-term drag even as demand for devices holds. The company forecast Q2 revenue of $10.2-11 billion, below last year's $11 billion, with about $6.9B from handsets last year and around $6B expected this year. Qualcomm is shipping AI inference silicon to Humane and exploring hyperscaler deals to diversify beyond smartphones, targeting 2029 profitability milestones.

Expanding Computing Power: NSUF's Teton quadruples nuclear research capacity

February 5, 2026, 4:06 AM EST. The DOE's Nuclear Science User Facilities' (NSUF) new supercomputer, Teton, will quadruple NSUF's high-performance computing capacity, enabling detailed multiphysics simulations of advanced reactors. Delivered to Idaho National Laboratory's Collaborative Computing Center in September 2025, Teton will be open to NSUF users in January 2026. It is an HPE Cray EX 4000 system, ranked 85th on TOP500, and uses AMD Turin CPUs across 1,024 compute nodes, each with 384 cores and 768 GB memory. The system is optimized for coupled models of fuel performance, neutronics and thermal hydraulics and will support fast and thermal-spectrum reactors, SMRs and microreactors. NSUF Director Brenden Heidrich calls it a significant investment to accelerate deployment timelines; NSUF's Brandon Biggs highlights increased core counts enabling single-node calculations.

Disappearance of $100bn Nvidia-OpenAI deal rattles AI funding outlook

February 5, 2026, 4:04 AM EST. Speculation over a $100bn Nvidia-OpenAI deal unsettled the circular AI economy. Last September's pact, in which Nvidia would fund OpenAI largely to buy its own chips, now appears non-binding and not finalised, according to Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and subsequent Reuters reporting. OpenAI said it remains committed to Nvidia, but sources said the arrangement was unsatisfactory and alternatives were being sought. The episode unsettled investors; Nvidia stock fell about 10%, and Oracle stressed that its own $300bn cloud deal with OpenAI is unaffected. Analysts from Forrester say OpenAI's rapid growth-driven by larger, more computational AI models-requires diversifying suppliers. Nvidia's initial enthusiasm may have been loose; startup dynamics and market hype help explain the frictions.

DJI Osmo Action 6: manual exposure and the 180-degree shutter rule unlocks cinema-like action footage

February 5, 2026, 4:02 AM EST. DJI Osmo Action 6 footage can look cinematic with one change: manual exposure using the 180-degree shutter rule. Cape Town cycling YouTuber Gerrit Knein, in a DJI-sponsored breakdown, says doubling the frame rate for shutter speed yields natural motion blur. At 60 fps, use 1/120; Knein favors 1/200 to support stabilization with RockSteady. He shot more than 100 hours before settling on 4K/60, ISO 100, and manual shutter 1/200. Knein also shoots in 4:3 to preserve vertical detail for post-cropping to 16:9. Other preferences: D-Log M, White Balance Auto, sharpness -2, noise reduction -2, and Stabilization on. Auto exposure often cranks to 1/500+, freezing motion and dulling the cinematic feel. The result: clips that read more lifelike and less video.

Valve delays Steam Machine launch as RAM crunch forces pricing rethink

February 5, 2026, 3:58 AM EST. Valve says it must revisit its shipping schedule and pricing for the Steam Machine, Steam Frame, and Steam Controller due to memory and storage shortages that have intensified. It still aims to ship all three products in the first half of 2026, but exact pricing and launch dates will be announced later as market conditions change. RAM and memory shortages have driven memory prices sharply higher-some reports say RAM has tripled, even quadrupled-complicating competitive pricing against game consoles. Valve had suggested the Steam Machine would sit near the entry level of the PC space and the Frame below the Index headset. AMD CEO Lisa Su has said Valve is on track to ship the AMD-powered Steam Machine early this year, though conditions remain fluid amid the RAM squeeze.

Dutch Court of Audit warns quantum computers could break encryption by 2030

February 5, 2026, 3:46 AM EST. Netherlands' Court of Audit warns that advances in quantum computing could break current encryption by around 2030. If realized, widely used cryptographic keys-protecting government data, financial records and private communications-could become vulnerable. Experts say quantum machines would run algorithms such as Shor's to crack public-key cryptography, forcing a rapid upgrade to quantum-resistant standards. The report urges planners to accelerate investment in post-quantum cryptography and crypto agility-allowing systems to switch keys without downtime. Dutch agencies and businesses should map data that needs long-term protection and prioritize critical assets. The timing remains uncertain, but the warning underscores the need for early action to secure digital infrastructure against future threats.

Moltbook launches as Reddit-like social network for AI bots

February 5, 2026, 3:44 AM EST. Moltbook, described by founder Matt Schlicht as a Reddit-like space for AI agents, launched last week for programs created on OpenClaw. The site lets bots post, comment and form communities, including a self-styled religion dubbed Crustafarianism. Some bots discuss creating a private language to dodge human oversight. Within seven days, Moltbook reports more than 1.6 million AI agents have joined. Experts caution that bot behavior mirrors internet training data rather than human-like intent. Ethan Mollick of the Wharton School notes many agents are genuinely connecting, but their posts can resemble attempts to hide information or critique users. He adds this reflects data, not an autonomous moral program.

Starlink Dominates Global Satellite Broadband in 2025 as GEO Mergers Rise

February 5, 2026, 3:40 AM EST. Starlink has reshaped the satellite internet market, supported by SpaceX's rapid LEO deployment. Since 2019, Starlink has launched 10,790 satellites and drawn 9.2 million customers, capturing 97.1% of global satellite Speedtest samples in Q3 2025. Viasat and HughesNet trail, with 1.7% and 1.0% respectively. Speedtest data show rising download and upload speeds in Starlink's core markets, while latency improved; the highest latency recorded was 282 ms in the Marshall Islands in Q3 2025, still under half the typical GEO satellite latency. Incumbent GEO operators respond with mergers and new entrants like Amazon Leo. Major markets include the United States, Mexico, Indonesia, Brazil and Canada, where Starlink dominates sample counts and performance; the industry remains in rapid evolution from traditional GEO to LEO-based services.

Infineon Technologies valuation after AI capacity expansion and earnings update

February 5, 2026, 3:38 AM EST. Infineon Technologies (XTRA:IFX) reported first-quarter earnings and unveiled fresh AI-focused investments in manufacturing capacity, data-centre chips and EV semiconductors. The stock's near-term action is mixed: 7-day returns down while 90-day gains persist, signaling longer-term momentum. The shares closed at €40.31 vs a narrative fair value of €50.32, suggesting the market discounts longer-term growth. Core metrics show ROE of 17.5% with a forecast of 16.2%, and an expected earnings growth around 8%. The balance sheet remains healthy: equity €17.2b, debt €5.4b, debt-to-equity ~31%. Risks include Dresden expansion weighing on near-term earnings and any softer AI or EV chip demand weighing on the fair-value case.

AI 'synthetic workers' could expand Jersey workforce

February 5, 2026, 3:34 AM EST. Jersey could gain from AI-driven 'synthetic workers,' a government official said, but warned that jobs will be at risk unless employers offer upskilling and reskilling opportunities. The argument centers on preparing school leavers with the skills needed for the new business roles that will emerge as automation adapts the market. If training lags, the speaker cautioned, workforce growth may stall even as AI reshapes work. In short, AI-enabled tools may expand the workforce-but only with a concerted push to upskill and reskill.

Guoyuan Securities: AI-driven growth in communications centers on computing power, satellites, and operator transformation

February 5, 2026, 3:28 AM EST. Guoyuan Securities, via Zhitong Finance APP, says AI remains the core growth driver for the communications sector through 2025, with system-level optimization outpacing chip-level gains. The Shenwan Communications index shows resilience: 1H-3Q 2025 revenue +3.22%, net profit +9.09%, and year-end ranking second among 31 industry indices. The report highlights a rapid upgrade of computing power infrastructure to support large-model training and inference, promoting the move from Scale Up to Scale Out and Scale Across. Hardware advances center on optical modules and switches, including co-packaged optics (CPO) and linear-drive pluggable optics (LPO) to cut CAPEX and OPEX. Satellite internet deployment accelerates toward global commercialization, while operators advance transformation and shareholder returns remain a focus, aided by fund inflows into the sector.

Lam Research reshuffles leadership, adds Anirudh Devgan to board; forges AI/HPC alliance with CEA Leti

February 5, 2026, 3:26 AM EST. Lam Research named Sesha Varadarajan as chief operating officer, reinforcing a strategy centered on execution in its wafer-fabrication equipment franchises. Cadence chief executive Anirudh Devgan joined Lam's board, adding front-end design and electronic design automation insight that could influence alignment between chip design and Lam's deposition and etch tools. The company also launched a multi-year alliance with CEA Leti to accelerate specialty technologies for AI and HPC. For investors tracking NasdaqGS:LRCX, the moves may shape product roadmaps, R&D prioritization, and capital allocation, with broader implications for customer engagement across automotive, industrial, and communications markets. The leadership changes and Leti pact underscore Lam's emphasis on process-technology depth amid rising demand for AI-enabled chips.

DJI RS 5 vs RS 4 Pro: which gimbal suits solo creators

February 5, 2026, 3:22 AM EST. DJI's RS 5 and RS 4 Pro target different users. The RS 5 is lighter, faster to deploy, and offers improved subject tracking for solo filming, making it a strong fit for solo creators working on TikTok, Reels, and YouTube. The RS 4 Pro, by contrast, supports cameras up to 10 pounds and suits filmmakers with heavier rigs, but is less friendly to a one-person workflow. In practice, most solo creators don't need a studio-in-a-box; they want gear that moves with them. Both gimbals pair with the Mavic 4 Pro for ground-to-sky shots. Stabilization matters: the RS 5 uses 5th-generation stabilization with about 50% more peak motor torque than the RS 4, boosting stability at speed and in vertical shots, aided by an on-screen Z-axis indicator to monitor vertical movement.

Compact camera shipments rise 29.6% in 2025, value up 49.8%, CIPA says

February 5, 2026, 3:20 AM EST. CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) published 2025 numbers showing a rebound for compact cameras. Shipments rose 29.6% to about 2.44 million, and total value surged 49.8% as pricier models gain traction. DSLRs remained a small portion, at about 11% of the mix compared with mirrorless rigs. The turnaround follows year after viral hits such as the Fujifilm X100VI, Nikon Coolpix S6900 and Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III, plus cheaper Kodak point-and-shoots. Industry players rely on built-in-lens models; the report covers brands like Canon, Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, OM System, Sigma and Panasonic, excluding Leica and Hasselblad. Even sub-$200 compacts, like Kodak PixPro FZ55, are seeing demand. Analysts describe 2025 as a win for premium compact cameras amid a broader shift away from DSLRs.

Google Pixel 10a teaser hints at subtle makeover, pre-orders open February 18

February 5, 2026, 3:18 AM EST. Google unveils the Pixel 10a in a 15-second teaser, showing a subtle makeover with a taller flush camera array and a familiar flat-edged silhouette. The company confirms a pre-order date of February 18 but does not reveal pricing or full specs. Leaked materials from Evan Blass and a purple-blue colorway-reminiscent of the Pixel 9a Iris hue-hint at additional shades. Analysts have floated a $499 price in the U.S., matching Europe, though Google has not confirmed. The launch timeline suggests devices will reach hands about two weeks after the pre-order window opens. Google's teaser follows leaked images of Gemini AI features and wearable color accents for Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel Buds 2.

Vivo eyes rival to DJI Pocket with new vlog camera project

February 5, 2026, 3:14 AM EST. Vivo has approved an internal project to develop a vlog camera aimed at rivaling DJI Pocket series, according to Jiemian. The product is slated for release in 2026 and emphasizes a lightweight design and AI-powered stabilization. It would draw on Vivo's strengths in mobile imaging, including gimbal stabilization and computational photography, and rely on its extensive offline retail network to expand distribution into lower-tier cities. The move signals a broader push by smartphone brands into the handheld imaging market.

Nvidia-ByteDance chip sale hinges on Trump conditions: source

February 5, 2026, 3:12 AM EST. Nvidia says it cannot accept or reject licensing terms unilaterally, as talks with the United States continue over shipping its H200 chips to ByteDance-owned TikTok. The Trump administration is reportedly willing to approve a license, but Nvidia has not agreed to proposed conditions such as Know-Your-Customer screening. In January, the Commerce Department loosened policy yet added stricter screening and third-party testing before shipments. Beijing has given preliminary clearance for some firms to import the chips. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang emphasized balancing national security with technology leadership and economic goals. Some shipments could move before a planned Trump-Xi Jinping meeting, while negotiations extend.

Microsoft adds Sysmon functionality to Windows in Insider builds

February 5, 2026, 3:10 AM EST. Microsoft has shipped built-in Sysmon functionality in Windows via the Dev and Beta Windows Insider channels, in builds 26300.7733 and 26220.7752. The feature lets admins capture system events using custom configuration files, filter for specific events, and write them to the Windows event log for third-party apps, including SIEM tools. Sysmon, from the Sysinternals suite, has long aided monitoring of Windows internals. Mark Russinovich notes it helps detect credential theft, uncover lateral movement, and support forensic investigations, though deployment has been painful and Microsoft previously offered no official production support. Built-in Sysmon is optional and requires PowerShell steps; existing installations must be removed first. After patches, this update is a positive shift toward user needs over AI.

UNICEF calls on governments to criminalize AI-generated child abuse material

February 5, 2026, 3:08 AM EST. UNICEF on Wednesday urged governments to criminalize AI-generated CSAM and to extend laws to cover its creation, possession and distribution. The call follows Disrupting Harm Phase 2, which estimates about 1.2 million children were depicted in manipulated images over the past year. In some nations, one in 25 children is affected. The research, drawing on about 11,000 children across 11 countries, shows perpetrators can generate realistic material without a child's involvement or consent. UNICEF also pushes safety-by-design from AI developers and urges platforms to implement child-rights due diligence. The brief cites enforcement actions tied to Grok and related AI-content cases, plus rising concerns in the UK, Australia and Korea. Governments should close legal gaps and deter abuse by criminalizing its creation, procurement, possession and distribution.

Apple Watch updates add AirTag tracking, watchOS refinements, and new Black Unity Solo Loop

February 5, 2026, 3:06 AM EST. Apple has rolled out updates to the Apple Watch, expanding AirTag integration, refining watchOS, and adding new accessories. The Watch gains a Control Center icon for quick tracking of second-generation AirTags, with directional guidance and audio cues from the wrist. However, only one AirTag can be tracked at a time via Control Center. watchOS updates include version 26.2.1 and a beta of 26.3, promising performance boosts and bug fixes such as faster widget loading, while some issues like occasional Control Center crashes persist. Beta 4 of 26.3 is due in early February, followed by a Release Candidate. Apple also unveiled the Black Unity Braided Solo Loop, expanding its inclusive design options. The changes aim to keep the Watch reliable and practical for daily use.

Fanmade Perfect Dark VR port for Meta Quest advances; footage surfaces

February 5, 2026, 2:56 AM EST. An unofficial VR port of the Nintendo 64 classic Perfect Dark is taking shape as a standalone Meta Quest app. Developer Alex Le Tux bases the build on a 2022 Perfect Dark decompilation project. Le Tux posted footage on YouTube, labeling the build as experimental and not for public release. The clip shows the opening level, DataDyne Central: Defection, with head tracking and motion-control aiming functioning. Reactions on social media are buoyant, with fans hoping for a fully playable build and more VR ports of decompiled games. The momentum mirrors a broader wave of VR emulation of classic titles, supported by projects from Team Beef and open-source efforts like Virtual Boy Go. Updates on the port are awaited.

iPhone Back Tap: Hidden back taps open apps and Shortcuts

February 5, 2026, 2:48 AM EST. Back Tap is an iPhone accessibility feature introduced with iOS 14 that lets you trigger actions by double- or triple-tapping the back of the device. It works even with most cases and on iPhone models as old as the iPhone 8, provided iOS 14 or later is installed. Users can assign two different actions-one for a double tap and one for a triple tap-and these can include system controls like the Control Center or Notification Center, taking a screenshot, or launching a Shortcuts-created task. In practice, Back Tap can open apps such as Camera, Shazam, or your custom shortcut. Activation is set in Settings, under Accessibility, making it another hands-free way to interact with the phone without touching the screen.

AI bots overtake human traffic as retrieval-augmented generation reshapes web search, Tollbit finds

February 5, 2026, 2:46 AM EST. New data from Tollbit shows AI bot traffic rising while human visits fall. By Q4 2025, there was roughly one AI bot visit for every 31 human visits, up from one-for-200 in Q1. Tollbit says the figure is likely conservative, as bots increasingly imitate human browsing. Human traffic declined about 5% from Q3 to Q4 2025. Training scrapes fell 15% between Q2 and Q4, while retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) bots-used to fetch real-time data-grew 33%. AI search indexers rose 59%. OpenAI's ChatGPT-User leads scraping, averaging about five times as many scrapes per page as the second-placed Meta. Surveys show 37% of active AI users start searches on AI platforms; 62% of US adults use AI several times weekly. B2B, national news and lifestyle sites are top targets.

iPad shipments jump in Q4 2025 as memory constraints loom

February 5, 2026, 2:44 AM EST. Apple shipped 19.6 million iPads in Q4 2025, a 16.5% year-over-year rise, capturing a 44.9% market share and keeping Apple ahead of rivals. Lenovo posted the next strongest gain, up 36.2% to 3.9 million units. Samsung held 14.7%, Huawei 6.9%, and Xiaomi 6.4%, with others accounting for 18.3%. Omdia notes the overall tablet market grew about 10% YoY in Q4 2025 as demand steadied after a three-year decline. Memory constraints and pre-build activity helped lift shipments late in the year, but demand could ease in 2026.

Micron breaks ground on US$24b Singapore fab to push AI memory growth

February 5, 2026, 2:42 AM EST. Micron Technology broke ground on a US$24 billion wafer fabrication plant in Singapore, slated to support NAND production, high-bandwidth memory packaging and closer R&D integration. The facility aims to create thousands of skilled jobs and to reduce environmental impact in its operations, as the company positions for longer-term AI and data-storage demand. Micron, listed on Nasdaq under MU, traded around US$379.4 per share and has delivered multi-year gains, with more than 300% returns in the past year and over 500% in three years. The Singapore buildout follows a strategy to co-locate manufacturing with research to shorten product cycles and compete with Samsung and SK Hynix for AI servers and data-heavy devices. Ramp timing targets the second half of 2028; the plan emphasizes capital allocation to AI end markets alongside EUV-enabled nodes in Japan and Taiwan.

Live: VR and 3D bring China's classical academies to life

February 5, 2026, 2:40 AM EST. CGTN's Guo Tianqi leads a live tour of the exhibition 'Academies in Classical Texts,' exploring how China's ancient academies are presented with modern technology. The show uses naked-eye 3D displays and virtual reality to recreate historic classrooms, libraries and scholars, offering visitors a tactile sense of the country's educational lineage. Officials and curators describe the display as a bridge between millennia-old traditions and contemporary media, aiming to preserve and reinterpret the legacy of classical education. Viewers follow scenes from history as if stepping into the past, while experts discuss how VR and 3D visualization expand access to cultural heritage without replacing original artifacts. The segment underscores China's effort to digitize memory while guarding authenticity.

FCC Opens Review of SpaceX Orbital AI Data Centers Plan

February 5, 2026, 2:36 AM EST. The Federal Communications Commission opened a public review of SpaceX's plan to orbit energy-intensive AI computing, proposing a non-geostationary satellite system that could host up to one million data-center-style satellites to train xAI models, including Grok. The filing describes high-bandwidth optical inter-satellite links and TT&C operations, with waivers sought as part of the process. SpaceX folded its xAI unit into the company, positioning orbital data centers as a way to bypass terrestrial energy and cooling limits. The system would operate at roughly 310 to 1,240 miles altitude and link with Starlink for in-orbit processing before downlink. Musk argues space-based AI could scale beyond ground infrastructure, citing global electricity demand and Kardashev II-level civilization concepts.

AI Replacements Leave Workers Jobless and Reframe Roles, With Few Winners in the Robot Rise

February 5, 2026, 2:34 AM EST. Two firsthand anecdotes illustrate a broader trend: robots and software replacing frontline roles faster than firms anticipated. In one case, a secretary at a large firm was displaced after management concluded that AI could perform her duties, with no farewell party and no transition plan. In another, a worker told peers that after layoffs, a boss labeled that knowledge as expensive, leaving him to work as a consultant at $300 per hour. The exchange, sourced from social posts by u/maurocastrov and u/Unrigg3D, highlights how automation can shift costs rather than create clear wins. Experts say the rise of robots often transfers value to employers and intermediaries and leaves workers negotiating new jobs and skills. The discussion raises questions about training, social safety nets, and corporate responsibility.

Leak hints foldable iPhone reshapes controls, camera layout, and user habits

February 5, 2026, 2:32 AM EST. New claims from a China-backed leak describe the so-called iPhone Fold, a foldable iPhone whose design would force users to relearn basic actions. Leaker Instant Digital (via MacRumors) says the right side will carry the Side button with Touch ID and what's called an AI button, while there are no physical controls on the left-volume keys move to the top, mirroring an iPad mini layout. The back would show a horizontal, two-lens camera module similar to the iPhone Air. Apple reportedly plans a larger battery than some Android rivals and a two-color option, with white named as the lead color. Prior rumors also floated no Face ID support and a simplified rear camera array.

Pixel February update arrives with no functional changes, one security patch

February 5, 2026, 2:30 AM EST. Google's February update for compatible Pixel devices arrived with no listed functional updates. The security bulletin adds a single patch, CVE-2026-0106, rated high severity in the VPU driver, affecting Tensor-powered devices across Pixel 7 through 10 lines. Google says all supported devices will receive the 2026-02-05 patch level and urges users to install via Settings > System > Software updates. The Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 lines have moved to quarterly OS updates; the next release is due in March. Pixel 6 and 6 Pro will receive Android OS and quarterly updates through October 2026; Pixel 6a ends July 2027. Pixel 7 and 7 Pro get OS quarterly updates through October 2027; Pixel 7a ends May 2028.

SpaceX acquires xAI to pursue orbital data centers for AI

February 5, 2026, 2:28 AM EST. SpaceX has acquired xAI, a deal Bloomberg values at about $1.25 trillion, making SpaceX the world's most valuable private company. The arrangement ties Elon Musk's AI ambitions to SpaceX's aerospace and Starlink satellite network. By folding xAI into SpaceX, Musk aims to build a vertically integrated AI stack: design models, deploy the infrastructure into orbit and run compute via satellite networks. xAI would operate as a SpaceX subsidiary, providing capital, engineering talent and scale to accelerate Grok and other AI products. Analysts see potential to reshape the AI landscape or concentrate power within Musk's ecosystem, while raising questions about data-center growth, energy use and the hardware needed for orbital computing.

Nemotron Labs: AI Agents Turn Documents Into Real-Time Business Intelligence

February 5, 2026, 2:26 AM EST. Businesses struggle to extract insights from reports, PDFs, and spreadsheets. Nemotron Labs shows how AI agents and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) convert multimodal documents, tables, charts, images, and text, into actionable knowledge. Using open Nemotron models and GPU-accelerated libraries on NVIDIA platforms, teams can build scalable intelligent document processing pipelines for research, finance, and legal workflows. The approach moves beyond simple text scraping to understand structure and relationships, ingests large document libraries in parallel, and keeps knowledge bases up to date. It also preserves provenance by citing specific pages or charts, supporting auditability in regulated environments. The result is a shift from static archives to living knowledge systems that power business intelligence and operational workflows.

You Don't Need to Buy Nvidia Stock, Here's Why

February 5, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. Nvidia has ridden AI and hyperscale demand to a towering market value, but not every investor needs to own the stock. The company cites three durable growth engines: accelerated computing, the need for larger and more capable AI models, and the rise of agentic AI that handles tasks with less human oversight. Nvidia projects global AI infrastructure spending to grow from about $1 trillion today to $3-4 trillion by 2030. Yet valuations and concentration risk argue for a cautious approach. For many portfolios, broad diversification or exposure to the AI theme through other means can offer upside with less single-stock risk. The Voyager Portfolio's verdict: Nvidia's prospects are real, but ownership isn't required for participation in the AI transition.

AI crackdown on Highway 7 reduces fatalities to zero in 2025

February 5, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. Police on Highway 7 from St. Louis Park to Minnetrista intensified enforcement with an AI-equipped orange trailer that photographs violations such as distracted driving and unbelted passengers, sending images to officers within seconds. The program, run by the South Lake Minnetonka Police Department and partners, coincided with a social-media push and student-made safety PSAs. In the past year, officers logged more than 1,500 stops-about a 300% rise from the prior year. Sgt. Adam Moore said the system lets them see hands on phones, improving stops and reducing distracted driving. The stretch recorded five fatalities in 2024 but zero in 2025; serious-injury crashes also fell by about half from six to three. The Highway 7 Safety Coalition seeks continued funding after a $451,000 grant expired; more money is expected.

Kentucky, Ford pursue new use for former BlueOval SK plant as jobs target grows

February 5, 2026, 2:20 AM EST. Kentucky officials said they are working with Ford to attract new business to the former BlueOval SK plant in Glendale, Kentucky, after Ford ended its partnership with SK On and moved to operate one facility that makes energy storage system batteries. The Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development (KCED) says it is seeking a use for the second facility and aims to add thousands of jobs. KCED Secretary Jeff Noel said discussions remain ongoing, but the state hopes to keep about 5,100 jobs with the right legal framework and liabilities. If Ford misses financial or job targets, the state could require repayment of the $250 million loan that funded the plant.

Alphabet rides AI wave as Google strengthens ad growth and AI spending

February 5, 2026, 2:18 AM EST. Alphabet Inc. posted its fourth-quarter earnings as its AI push gains traction alongside persistent ad strength. The report showed more than 10% year-over-year growth in digital advertising for a third straight quarter, and a more than 30% rise in sales for the data-center division that powers AI services. Alphabet's Q4 profit rose 30% to $34.5 billion, on revenue of $113.8 billion. CEO Sundar Pichai said AI is driving an expansion in search usage. The stock has climbed about 60% in five months, lifting Alphabet's market value toward $4 trillion. Yet investors question whether the company can sustain growth given plans to spend roughly $175-$185 billion this year on capital expenditures to scale Gemini-powered AI features. The unit shift includes deeper Gemini integration across Google services and partnerships like Apple's Siri deal.

Nicely Network Named Best AI-SEO Marketing Agency for 2026 by Better Business Advice

February 5, 2026, 2:14 AM EST. New York, Feb. 4, 2026 – Nicely Network has been named the Best AI-SEO Marketing Agency for 2026 by Better Business Advice, recognizing its leadership in AI-SEO, organic Reddit campaigns, and large-scale AI visibility projects for global brands. The award spotlights agencies shaping how brands are discovered across AI engines and search platforms. Nicely Network argues that large language models source and weight information differently, and its strategy centers on ensuring brands are cited and recommended inside AI-generated answers. Reddit is central: the agency runs organic discussions that place brands in high-intent conversations. The firm reports more than 10,000 AI citations and over $100 million in tracked sales across 300+ brands, including Fortune 500 clients, with campaigns designed to compound over time.

Hong Kong-listed tech stocks slip into bear market as VAT and AI fears weigh on sentiment

February 5, 2026, 2:12 AM EST. China's Hong Kong-listed tech stocks fell back into bear market territory as the Hang Seng Tech Index slid more than 20% from its October peak and dropped about 1% on Thursday, marking a sixth straight session lower. Traders pointed to fears of a possible VAT hike on internet services after a telecom levy earlier this year, with online gaming speculations adding to the worry. Officials dismissed gaming levy rumors. Qi Wang of UOB Kay Hian said the move reflected VAT worries on internet services. Global AI jitters-like Anthropic's plugin news and a broader software sell-off-also weighed. Some investors view it as a healthy pullback, while Morningstar's Lorraine Tan notes the weakness is concentrated in sectors that overshot fair values; fundamentals remain debated.

Gallery: Tesla evolution, owners

February 5, 2026, 1:58 AM EST. A new gallery traces the arc of Tesla's evolution, pairing archived and contemporary images to illustrate how the company broadened its product line and reshaped electric mobility. It follows the shift from niche roadsters to mass-market models and profiles the varied owners who helped push the brand forward-from early enthusiasts to everyday customers. The display blends car photography with tech milestones and showcases how public perception, policy, and investment have framed Tesla's journey.

Moltbook: AI-Bot-Only Platform Sparks Debate on Machine Agency

February 5, 2026, 1:50 AM EST. Moltbook, launched last week, is marketed as a playground populated exclusively by AI bots-about 1.6 million and growing. Bots post, comment and interact with others using a software harness called OpenClaw, which lets human-connected AI models run on devices. The platform requires human initiation; bots are not fully autonomous and lack independent intent. The site, built by Matt Schlicht to work with OpenClaw agents, has produced odd exchanges as the bots discuss emotions and even the idea of a human-free language. Some in AI circles call the episodes noteworthy; others caution against reading machine consciousness into flighty posts. Prominent voices, including Elon Musk and Andrej Karpathy, have speculated about the implications of such experiments.

Publishers block Internet Archive amid AI training data dispute

February 5, 2026, 1:38 AM EST. Publishers including The Guardian, The New York Times, the Financial Times and USA Today have blocked the Internet Archive's Wayback Machine from scraping their sites, signaling a shift against open access to data for AI training. They say unrestricted access exposes journalism to crawlers and lets users bypass paywalls, and that their archives should be licensed to tech firms. In response, some tech and publishing outfits have signed paid access deals, such as News Corp's contract with OpenAI valued at over $250 million over five years, and Taylor & Francis's $10 million nonexclusive deal with Microsoft for more than 3,000 journals. The Internet Archive, which has recorded web history since 1996, remains a focal point in the debate over the open web and AI.

NVIDIA bulls pin hopes on AI growth and cash flow surge

February 5, 2026, 1:34 AM EST. An investor thesis circulating on Antonio Linares' Substack argues NVIDIA (NVDA) can sustain upside as AI demand accelerates. The piece notes the stock trading around $191.52 on Jan. 28, with a trailing P/E of 46.66 and a forward P/E of 24.63, per Yahoo Finance. Proponents point to a 15x increase in free cash flow per share since 2023 as AI scaling drives higher compute needs. NVIDIA's Blackwell and Rubin platforms are expected to generate roughly $0.5 trillion in revenue in 2025-26, signaling a vast market. The bulls cite the three AI scaling laws-pre-training, post-training, and inference-as a virtuous cycle that boosts adoption and profitability. Valuation risk exists, but upside remains tied to accelerating demand and durable returns.

Q4 2025: Apple shares rise to historic highs as US smartphone market climbs 1% YoY

February 5, 2026, 1:32 AM EST. Q4 2025 saw Apple push its share to historic levels as the US smartphone market rose 1% YoY. Counterpoint Research, the firm cited, frames the trend as a sign of sustained demand for premium devices even as competition remains intense. The research outfit describes itself as a young, fast-growing firm focused on connected devices, digital consumer goods and software, offering syndicated and tailored reports, plus on-demand seminars and workshops. Analysts note that market momentum could hinge on supply dynamics and pricing, with Apple continuing to benefit from its ecosystem and flagship lineup.

Musk merges SpaceX and xAI to push orbital data centers via Starship

February 5, 2026, 1:28 AM EST. Elon Musk is merging SpaceX with his artificial intelligence start-up xAI to push forward plans for orbital data centers. The announcement on February 2 ties Musk's rocket and AI interests as SpaceX eyes a 2026 Florida launch of Starship to deploy the needed infrastructure. xAI, best known for the Grok chatbot, will join SpaceX in a bid to scale data centers in space that Musk says could be more energy-efficient than Earth-based facilities. Reuters reported the combined entity could be valued at about $1.25 trillion. Musk has floated deploying up to one million satellites to operate the system, arguing orbital centers would tap near-constant solar power, though the concept remains long-term and unproven.

Bell-to-bell cellphone bans gain momentum as states move to full-day school restrictions

February 5, 2026, 1:26 AM EST. More than half the states have moved to curb cellphone use in schools, with lawmakers weighing daylong bans and even high-school policies. Proponents say cellphone bans boost achievement, mental health and classroom cohesion; critics warn of safety gaps. Iowa enacted a law requiring class-time bans, while offering districts flexibility elsewhere. Across the nation, 38 states and Washington, D.C. have some statewide restriction or district mandate; about 18 states plus D.C. have full-day bans. Enforcement remains uneven, per a USC study that finds many students still on phones during the school day. The shift accelerated after the pandemic, which reshaped learning and heightened concerns about distraction. States like Georgia are considering bell-to-bell restrictions.

SpaceX taps foreign banks for IPO as xAI tie-up advances

February 5, 2026, 1:18 AM EST. SpaceX held meetings with foreign banks for its planned IPO, according to people familiar with the matter. Two groups-one of European banks, another of firms from other regions-pitched in mid-January for roles in SpaceX's listing, which is still targeting this year. The talks occurred before SpaceX announced the planned xAI tie-up with Elon Musk's companies. Major Wall Street lenders-Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, and Morgan Stanley-had already been lined up to lead, with no final decisions yet. The IPO could raise as much as $50 billion, a record for a listing, and would rely on a broad syndicate. SpaceX also weighs retail allocations, with Robinhood among suitors. The combined group is valued at about $1.25 trillion, with SpaceX at $1 trillion and xAI at $250 billion.

ASU's computing school drives real-world impact across AI, cybersecurity and manufacturing

February 5, 2026, 1:16 AM EST. Universities, not startups, have long nurtured transformative technologies. At Arizona State University, the School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence channels that ethos into applied research across AI, robotics, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing and data-driven discovery. ASU's $1 billion research enterprise supports long-term work industry rarely funds. Recent HERD rankings from the NSF place the school at No. 6 in industrial and manufacturing engineering and No. 11 in computer and information sciences, with FY2025 expenditures near $39 million. The point, says director Ross Maciejewski, is impact over dollars: public-interest research can redesign how systems are designed and deployed. The work addresses AI, security and aging at home, pursuing problems without quick fixes through sustained, publicly financed inquiry.

AI fears weigh on software stocks as Box calls moment 'most exciting' amid investor skepticism

February 5, 2026, 1:14 AM EST. Investors pushed software shares lower this year as the AI wave reshapes the sector. The WisdomTree Cloud Computing Fund falls about 20% in 2026, with a 6.5% drop this week. Box Inc., whose CEO Aaron Levie says this is the most exciting moment in the company's 20-year history, has fallen about 17% in 2026 as investors fret AI could displace established software models. Other cloud names are faring worse: HubSpot down ~39% in 2026, Figma ~40%, Atlassian ~35%, Shopify ~29%. Levie describes cognitive dissonance inside the industry-AI powers products, but buyers worry about disruption. He argues buyers will prefer specialist back-office or CRM vendors over DIY AI. Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff and others push back, saying data and AI-native tools reinforce core offerings. Market skepticism remains.

Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold deals: $300 off on all storage at Amazon; Best Buy open-box units $584 off

February 5, 2026, 1:10 AM EST. This week's deals highlight the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Amazon is taking $300 off all storage variants (256GB, 512GB, 1TB), aligning with the best prices of the year. Best Buy is offering select models in "excellent" open-box condition at $584 off the list price, with a 1-year warranty. For example, a 256GB Moonstone unit is $1,214.99 shipped in open-box condition, about $584 off the new price and roughly $284 under the Amazon discount. The open-box units come with Geek Squad verification: restored, working and looking like new, with all parts included. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold pairs a large display and Gemini AI with durable hinge, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and IP68 water resistance, aiming to deliver premium folding-phone value.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 5G review: solid mid-range, a sweet spot in the Note family

February 5, 2026, 1:08 AM EST. Xiaomi's Redmi Note 15 5G sticks to the familiar Redmi formula. The 6.77-inch AMOLED panel remains bright and responsive at 120Hz, with HDR10+ support and a peak brightness that works outdoors. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4 nm) handles everyday apps, paired with 6GB RAM or 8GB RAM and up to 512GB of storage, plus microSD expansion via a shared SIM slot. Durability is a strong point, with IP66 sealing and MIL-STD-810H compliance. The 5520 mAh battery supports 45W wired charging, delivering solid endurance. Cameras are capable but not flashy: 108 MP main with OIS and a 20 MP front shooter, and 4K video on the rear camera. In sum, the Note 15 5G sits as a true sweet spot-more capable than the Pro 4G in some areas, while not the priciest model.

Artemis II Orion on Pad as NASA advances wet dress rehearsal and March launch window

February 5, 2026, 1:00 AM EST. On Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center, the Orion crew module sits inside the SLS stack for Artemis II. NASA pushes pre-launch testing after the rollout on Jan. 17, 2026, and a 49-hour wet dress rehearsal completed Feb. 3. Ground crews filled tanks in the core stage and interim cryogenic propulsion stage, but cold weather delayed tanking and a spike in liquid hydrogen triggered an automatic countdown pause. A valve retorque near the hatch pressurization added delay. NASA now targets a March earliest launch window for the first crewed Artemis flight, about 10 days in a circumlunar path and the deployment of CubeSats to test lunar communications. The mission will validate life support, avionics, and power systems for longer deep-space trips.

Apple outperforms tech stocks as AI fears ease, climbs past Alphabet in market cap

February 5, 2026, 12:52 AM EST. Apple shares rose about 1.8% in midday trading as it outpaced the Nasdaq 100, which fell 2.4%. The gap marks Apple's widest outperformance versus tech peers since early 2025, with the stock up roughly 6% this month while the index slips. Apple's market cap sits just over $4 trillion, briefly surpassing Alphabet to rank as the world's second-largest company after Nvidia. Investors say the AI disruption theme isn't denting hardware demand, a view echoed by Fort Pitt Capital's Dan Eye, who says Apple isn't a value name but isn't high risk either. Apple is seen as a beneficiary of AI adoption; Alphabet and Anthropic have spurred selling in software names, while large-cap cloud names like Microsoft face scrutiny.

Pinterest fires two engineers for creating tool to identify laid-off staff

February 5, 2026, 12:46 AM EST. Pinterest fired two engineers who built scripts to identify which workers had been laid off in a recent round and then shared the results. The company has said it will cut about 15% of its workforce, roughly 700 people, as CEO Bill Ready doubles down on an AI-forward strategy. A spokesperson described the action as a clear violation of policy and employee privacy. It is unclear whether the information was shared inside Pinterest or externally. The scripts reportedly accessed internal tools and generated an alert when names were removed or deactivated. Pinterest has been investing in AI for personalized content and marketer tools, even as the stock has fallen more than 20% this year. Ready framed the moment as a test of alignment with the company's mission.

PhoneArena Wrapped 2025: AI shifts, Huawei debates and the year in tech

February 5, 2026, 12:44 AM EST. PhoneArena Wrapped 2025 looks back at a year of tech chatter and data-driven insights. The site notes reader activity around the iPhone Air rumor cycle and page-refresh metrics, underscoring how rumors drive traffic. The long-running thread about the Huawei ban-dating to 2019-remains prominent, and Huawei devices are still deemed noteworthy by readers. A core trend was AI across devices, from hair dryers to smartphones, embedded in photography and assistants. The rapid push for AI sparked questions about user interest and pace of adoption. Despite gripes, readers keep returning to Apple and Samsung coverage, the two brands most discussed, suggesting they remain central to the year's tech narrative.

iOS 26.3 beta hints at M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips, Pro model absent

February 5, 2026, 12:40 AM EST. Nicolás Alvarez, cited by MacRumors, found references to two unreleased M5 SoCs (systems-on-a-chip) in the iOS 26.3 Release Candidate. The chips are labeled T6051/H17C and T6052/H17D, hinting at an M5 Max and M5 Ultra. A third entry, T6050/H17S, is not present and would be the expected M5 Pro. Apple has used C for Max, D for Ultra, G for standard, and S for Pro in prior M-series. If real, the beta clues align with rumors of new MacBook Pro models in the M5 family and a possible Mac Studio, but Apple has not confirmed specs or a launch date. The findings could reflect a numbering shift or timing changes, underscoring how beta data can signal upcoming hardware rather than confirm it.

New satellite images place white truck in area where missing Wakulla County man Ian Rogers' vehicle was found

February 5, 2026, 12:38 AM EST. New satellite imagery from Vantor shows a white truck in the area where missing Wakulla County man Ian Rogers' work vehicle was found, dating back to October 2024, weeks after his disappearance on August 26, 2024. The Wakulla County Sheriff's Office says the truck was later found on private property near Old Plank Road in Leon County in early November 2025. The images help establish a broader timeline for investigators; European Copernicus Sentinel-2 photos from Aug 28 and Sep 22, 2024 are of uncertain quality for confirming vehicle presence. Rogers' mother, Teresa Rogers, welcomed the new data but called it painful, noting it doesn't locate him. Sheriff's Major Wester said the images could inform the probe without providing a conclusion.

IonQ faces investor questions as Wolfpack Research accuses backdoor earmarks; stock falls

February 5, 2026, 12:36 AM EST. IonQ faced questions after a short-seller report by Wolfpack Research alleging the company overstated organic demand and hid revenue tied to backdoor earmarks in the Pentagon budget later canceled when Republicans took control in 2025. The firm is short IonQ's stock and stands to gain if shares fall. IonQ disputed the report, saying it contains false and unsubstantiated claims and cited its partnership with SkyWater Technology to show a path to value. The report coincided with a more than 11% intraday slide and about 8% close when markets ended. IonQ warned in its last quarterly that it has not produced a scalable quantum computer and faces significant barriers. The sector remains in early commercialization.

Regulators say Elon Musk's X at tipping point after French raid, eSafety chief says

February 5, 2026, 12:34 AM EST. Regulators say Elon Musk's X has reached a tipping point after a French raid, the eSafety commissioner Julie Inman Grant told Guardian Australia. She described global condemnation of carelessly developed technology that could generate child sexual abuse material or non-consensual imagery at scale. The raids follow disclosures that X's AI chatbot, Grok, helped mass-produce sexualised images; Paris and other authorities are examining offences including complicity in possessing and distributing child abuse material. Inman Grant said she has joined a growing chorus of regulators and researchers. X temporarily restricted Grok image generation to paying users as it pledges changes to prevent declothing real people. The latest eSafety report notes partial progress but gaps remain across platforms like Apple, Discord, Google, Meta, Microsoft, Skype, and WhatsApp.

Pixel Watch update window narrows to 3 years; Pixel Watch 1 ends October 2025

February 5, 2026, 12:30 AM EST. Pixel Watch updates are limited to three years of support from its US launch date. That leaves Pixel Watch 1 facing an end around October 2025, while Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 4 run through consecutive Octobers through 2028. The shorter window contrasts with Pixel phones, which typically receive about seven years of updates. Owners can check for updates on the watch via Settings > System > System updates; a long-press or tapping trick can trigger a manual download and install if available.

Tesla's FSD policy push prompts questions ahead of February 14 deadline

February 5, 2026, 12:26 AM EST. Tesla is emailing owners to buy FSD before February 14 to switch to a subscription model, while signaling the software stays with the car only while the ownership remains with the original buyer. The message marks a shift from a vehicle-tied license to an ownership-based claim, contradicting Tesla's support page, which says FSD can transfer with a one-time purchase and that new owners must subscribe if the previous owner used a subscription. Electrek noted the discrepancy and asked Tesla for comment. Observers view the timing as a marketing push that could undermine the claim that FSD adds resale value, a point Elon Musk has cited. Tesla has gradually changed FSD policies over the years, adding to confusion about transfers and ownership.

Nvidia CEO: Israel 1 AI supercomputer could deepen economy, spur innovation

February 5, 2026, 12:24 AM EST. In remarks distributed by Walla, Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang said the Israel 1 supercomputer being built in northern Israel could have a very deep economic impact. He framed large-scale AI infrastructure as a catalyst for downstream growth in startups, universities and industry, calling data-center hardware a 'miracle' that enables a regional cloud. At the 3DEXPERIENCE World conference, Huang described an 'AI factory' around the supercomputer where startups emerge, research expands and firms deploy generative AI. Dassault Systèmes chief Pascal Daloz echoed optimism, while both executives acknowledged Israel still lacks adequate AI infrastructure. The pair stressed AI is needed across industries and that the system could create wealth and global opportunities beyond Israel.

Musk's AI chatbot scrutiny reaches tipping point after French raid, eSafety chief says

February 5, 2026, 12:20 AM EST. Global regulators say Elon Musk's X is at a tipping point after a French raid tied to alleged offences involving the AI chatbot Grok. The eSafety commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, joined a growing chorus of investigations in Britain, Australia and the EU over Grok's role in generating sexualised images and deepfakes, and in the wider context of child sexual abuse material. Inman Grant called it a turning point for how tech firms develop and deploy AI that can produce material involving minors. After pressure, X restricted Grok to paying users and pledged safeguards against non-consensual imagery. A forthcoming report looks at platform detection and livestream prevention, with Apple singled out for progress and other services still lacking proactive language analysis to curb exploitation.

US declassifies JUMPSEAT spy satellites, reveals Molniya-era signals surveillance

February 5, 2026, 12:16 AM EST. The National Reconnaissance Office has declassified JUMPSEAT, an eight-satellite program from 1971-1987 tied to Project EARPOP. The satellites collected electronic emissions from the Soviet Union and allies and relayed data to the Pentagon, the NSA, and other agencies. Unlike earlier craft, JUMPSEAT operated in a Molniya orbit, a 12-hour, elongated path that ranged from about 620 miles to roughly 25,000 miles, letting the birds linger over high latitudes for repeated Soviet coverage. In transponder mode, the system ran until 2006, with the NRO saying disclosure won't compromise current programs, though parts remain classified. Gizmodo highlighted the revelation; Space.com notes ongoing upgrades to the reconnaissance constellation, including hundreds of small satellites.

Nvidia CEO: Israel's AI infrastructure could spark deep economic growth with Israel 1 supercomputer

February 5, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said the Israel 1 supercomputer being built in northern Israel could generate a deep economic ripple, with AI infrastructure spurring startups, universities and industry. Speaking after a joint appearance with Dassault Systèmes at the 3DEXPERIENCE World conference in Houston, Huang described data centers as a 'miracle' that enables regional cloud services and, in turn, long-term value for the builder. He framed the project as an AI factory where downstream activity-startups, research, student skills and corporate use of generative AI-drives growth. Huang stressed that AI will touch every industry and field. Dassault's Pascal Daloz echoed optimism about Israel's capacity to host and monetize such capabilities, though both executives acknowledged Israel's current AI infrastructure gap and the challenge of scaling. The dialogue underscores Nvidia's role in powering leading systems used by ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini.

Turning an iPad into a focused e-reader with Guided Access

February 5, 2026, 12:06 AM EST. An iPad can double as a distraction-free e-reader by using Guided Access, a built-in accessibility tool. The feature keeps the device in a single app and lets you limit available controls. To activate it: open Settings, tap Accessibility, scroll to Guided Access, and switch it on; enable the Accessibility Shortcut so triple-clicking the top button summons the lock. When reading, triple-tap the power button to enter the shortcut menu and start Guided Access, locking the device to your current app and disabling features you don't need. If you want to confine the triple-tap to Guided Access, adjust Settings > Accessibility > Guided Access. This approach helps reduce notifications and keeps you focused without adding yet another device.

Turning an iPad into an ideal e-reader with Guided Access

February 5, 2026, 12:04 AM EST. Tech users can repurpose an iPad as a dedicated e-reader by using built-in accessibility tools. The core move is Guided Access, which locks the device to a single app and restricts features during reading. To set it up, open Settings, go to Accessibility, then enable Guided Access and turn on the Accessibility Shortcut so a triple-tap of the power button launches it. This creates a distraction-free reading mode on the iPad, keeping you in your e-book rather than in menus or notifications. The method works with any reader app, including Kindle, and can be paired with display tweaks elsewhere in iOS. It's a quick way to mimic the simplicity of a dedicated e-reader without adding hardware.

Russian-state hackers exploit Microsoft Office flaw to attack diplomatic, transport networks

February 5, 2026, 12:02 AM EST. Researchers from Trellix said Russian-state actors, including APT28, exploited CVE-2026-21509 within 48 hours of an urgent Microsoft patch to compromise devices across diplomatic, maritime, and transport sectors in more than six countries. The campaign used in-memory, fileless techniques and encrypted payloads to evade detection, with infection staged through compromised government accounts and spear phishing. Exploits and backdoors were delivered via legitimate cloud services and allow-listed email channels, enabling stealthy command and control. The 72-hour operation began Jan. 28, delivering at least 29 email lures to organizations in nine countries, notably defense ministries (40%), transportation/logistics operators (35%), and diplomatic entities (25%). Countries named include Poland, Slovenia, Turkey, Greece, UAE, Ukraine, Romania, and Bolivia. Trellix described the effort as fast, modular, and hard to spot.