Technology News 05.12.2025

Apple Watch SE 3 Hits All-Time Low Under $200 as Black Friday Deals Persist

December 5, 2025, 11:58 PM EST. Nearly a week after Black Friday, the 40mm Apple Watch SE 3 is still under $200 on Amazon, about $50 below its usual price. No refurb talk-just a fresh smartwatch at a renewed-level deal. The SE 3 works as an upgrade from older models or as a first smartwatch for kids with the Kids feature, offering call/text/location sharing, 18-hour battery life, and rapid recharging. It adds advanced sleep monitoring with a sleep score and even potential sleep apnea alerts, plus robust health tracking, activity rings, and seamless iPhone syncing. The 1,000-nits OLED Always-On display on the 40mm GPS model ensures visibility during workouts, with this ongoing 20% off deal likely to last awhile.

ARISS SSTV Event Active via RS-38S Satellite (VIZARD-meteo)

December 5, 2025, 11:54 PM EST. ARISS has announced an SSTV event transmitting from the RS-38S satellite (aka VIZARD-meteo) through December 13. The images use Robot 36 SSTV mode on 437.825 MHz, with a 12-image series running Dec 4-13. Certificates are available on the ARISS website. RS-38S is a 3U CubeSat developed with Russian student involvement and launched in 2023.

How to set up and optimize your Google Pixel Watch 4: 12 essential features to customize out of the box

December 5, 2025, 11:52 PM EST. New Pixel Watch 4 tips to get the most from day one. This beginner's guide covers essential setup steps-pairing with your Google account, syncing with Fitbit, and configuring notifications. It then dives into 12 customizable features: choose and edit watch faces with the Watch app on your phone; let Wear OS 6 drive themes and layouts; expand your options with 3rd-party watch faces from Facer, WatchMaker, and TIMEFLIK; adjust colors, widgets, and complications; preview changes in the phone app before syncing to the Pixel Watch 4. By tailoring faces, slots, and UI elements, you'll get a more personal, efficient smartwatch right out of the box.

Alaska to gain redundant undersea fiber-optic cables linking Juneau, Cordova, and Seward by 2027

December 5, 2025, 11:42 PM EST. Cordova Telecom Cooperative and GCI unveiled plans to lay two undersea fiber-optic cables-from Juneau to Cordova and from Cordova to Seward-that will go live in fall 2027. The new routes will deliver high-speed internet to rural communities in Prince William Sound and northern Southeast Alaska and create a parallel path between the Railbelt and Outside for added redundancy. The project complements Alaska's existing undersea links and follows the state's first overland fiber network opened in 2020. While fiber offers speed and capacity, it remains vulnerable to ice scour, anchors, and earthquakes, as seen with recent cuts to other cables and outages in Juneau.

Stephen A. Smith Drops Embattled Papaya Solitaire App Maker

December 5, 2025, 11:40 PM EST. Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith ends his association with Papaya, the embattled solitaire app maker. The move underscores rising scrutiny around mobile gaming startups and the challenges of sustaining user trust amid controversy. As Papaya faces investor and regulatory questions, the decision could affect its roadmap, partnerships, and recovery efforts for its platform and user base.

NJ plane incident highlights potential impact of cosmic rays on aviation safety

December 5, 2025, 11:38 PM EST. An October JetBlue flight from Cancun to Newark reportedly experienced an onboard anomaly tied to cosmic rays, with officials citing a potential bit flip in the flight computer that caused sudden altitude loss. While experts call this a hypothesis rather than a confirmed cause, the episode underscores how high-energy particles can impact avionics and raise safety questions for air travel. The Planetary Society's Casey Dreier notes such events are rare thanks to Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere, but solar activity can increase risk. Additionally, Dreier warns of solar storms that can disrupt GPS, radio, and power grids, evidenced by a May solar storm that affected multiple regions. Researchers emphasize protections in spacecraft hardware but acknowledge the low odds of a critical hit in flight.

Meta delays Phoenix mixed reality glasses release to get the details right

December 5, 2025, 11:36 PM EST. Meta is delaying the release of its next-gen mixed reality glasses, code-named Phoenix, to get the details right. People familiar with the plan say the pause reflects a focus on product polish over early timelines as Meta pursues its AR/VR hardware ambitions. The delay could shift the developer and partner roadmap for access to Phoenix's software and ecosystem, though the company has not provided a new launch window. By taking more time to refine features, ensure reliability, and align software with the hardware, Meta aims to deliver a more seamless user experience and a stronger developer platform when Phoenix ships to consumers.

Netnod Debatt: Cutting internet ties to the US would be a major mistake

December 5, 2025, 11:04 PM EST. In DN Debatt, Fredrik Lindeberg of Netnod argues that pursuing digital isolation and replacing American tech with European alternatives weakens security. He warns that moving away from transatlantic links risks empowering anti-democratic forces and undermines defence. The focus should be on logical control and the security resources of global platforms, not the physical location of servers. Symbolic politics and discarding robust tools would lower guard in a critical security situation. The piece emphasises the importance of transatlantic cooperation, resilient infrastructure, and trusted services, including DNS and root-name-server operations that Netnod helps run. Netnod is a Nordic data exchange and DNS operator owned by the TU Foundation, contributing to time distribution for Sweden's national time and broader internet stability.

India weighs mandatory always-on smartphone location tracking; Apple, Google and Samsung oppose

December 5, 2025, 10:38 PM EST. New reports say India is weighing a telecom-proposal to require an always-on satellite-based location service (A-GPS) in smartphones, with no option to turn it off and with notifications about carrier access disabled. The plan aims to assist law enforcement but has sparked backlash from Apple, Google and Samsung, who reportedly urged the Modi administration to reject it. The ICEA warned it's a regulatory overreach that could affect military personnel, judges, executives and journalists. The EFF warned of privacy and due-process risks for India's 1.4 billion people. A meeting between the home ministry and industry executives was postponed, fueling questions about timing as Reuters reports on the latest push for greater surveillance.

Azure Local and IoT Operations Embrace AI-Powered Edge Enhancements Across Hybrid Environments

December 5, 2025, 10:36 PM EST. Azure Local GA supports mission-critical workloads and sovereignty, powered by the adaptive cloud model and unified via Azure Arc. M365 Local GA now supports NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell GPUs for on-prem AI, and Azure Migrate GA for lift-and-shift. Preview features include AD-less deployments, rack-aware clustering, external SAN integration and multi-rack designs, plus a disconnected mode for unreliable networks (GSK uses it for real-time data and AI inference). In IoT, IoT Hub adds X.509 certificate management and tighter integration with Device Registry. IoT Operations introduces WebAssembly data graphs for near-real-time analytics, expanded connectors (OPC UA, ONVIF, REST/HTTP, SSE, MQTT), and the ability to stream IoT data to Microsoft Fabric, with Fabric IQ and Digital Twin Builder. Arc management gains several previews.

Taiwan Bans Xiaohongshu (RedNote) Over Fraud Risks and Data Security Concerns

December 5, 2025, 10:34 PM EST. Taiwan will block access to the popular Chinese social-shopping app Xiaohongshu (RedNote) for one year amid reports of online shopping scams. The Criminal Investigation Bureau says more than 1,700 fraud cases linked to the platform with losses topping NT$247 million. Internet providers have been ordered to block the app, impacting about three million users. The app, which combines social features with built-in shopping, has reportedly failed to meet data-security standards and lacks a local office, drawing regulators' ire. Xiaohongshu has faced scrutiny from Chinese authorities and is navigating geopolitical tensions as Taiwan moves to curb perceived online risks.

PlayStation VR2 Horizon Call of the Mountain Bundle Hits $299 at Best Buy (Limited Time)

December 5, 2025, 10:18 PM EST. Three days only: snatch the PlayStation VR2 Horizon Call of the Mountain bundle for $299.99 at Best Buy (down from $399.99). That's a 25% savings and a $100 discount on the standard price. The bundle includes the VR2 headset and the Horizon game, offering a more affordable entry to immersive PS VR2 experiences. Availability and pricing can change, so act fast if you want this offer. A solid option for PS5 owners looking to upgrade to next-gen VR without breaking the bank.

India weighs mandatory A-GPS activation for smartphones, sparking privacy and surveillance debate

December 5, 2025, 10:16 PM EST. India is weighing a potential mandate to permanently activate A-GPS technology on smartphones, a move that would give agencies access to meter-level location data. The proposal, floated by the COAI and now under government consideration, aims to improve legal location tracking but faces strong opposition from Apple and Google on grounds of privacy, legal and national security concerns, and potential overreach. Previously, India abandoned a pre-installation order for a state-run security app. Reuters reports a meeting with top industry executives was postponed, with talks also touching on surveillance alerts and pop-up location prompts that could reveal tracking. Critics warn such a mandate could erode user privacy and raise implementation hurdles, while supporters say it would speed up investigations by relying on more precise positioning than cellular towers.

Aircela Unveils On-Site Synthetic Gasoline: A Climate Tech Startup's Route to Carbon-Neutral Fuel

December 5, 2025, 9:48 PM EST. Aircela, a New York climate-tech startup, unveiled a refrigerator-sized device that turns ambient air into synthetic gasoline in real time, on-site. The system captures CO₂ directly from the atmosphere and, with renewable electricity, converts it-plus hydrogen from water-into a liquid fuel chemically identical to fossil gasoline but cleaner (no sulfur or ethanol). Unlike biofuels or prototypes, this drop-in fuel requires no engine tweaks or refueling infrastructure changes. The modular unit is designed for distributed deployment at homes, businesses, or remote sites, potentially avoiding costly EV charging networks and centralized refineries. Backed by investors such as Maersk Growth, Aircela argues this carbon-neutral fuel could be an off-ramp compatible with today's fleets and logistics.

Satellite Photobombing Threatens Space Telescopes, Prompting Mitigation Plans

December 5, 2025, 9:46 PM EST. New research warns that growing satellite constellations in low Earth orbit (LEO) could contaminate more than a third of images from space telescopes like Hubble, with even higher impact on upcoming observatories SPHEREx, ARRAKIHS, and Xuntian. If launches continue at the projected pace-two orders of magnitude higher over the next decade-over 96% of data from these platforms could be affected by satellite trails. The Nature study offers mitigation strategies that aim to balance the benefits of satellite-enabled services with science. Suggested measures include limiting the orbital altitude of large constellations, careful tracking and planning of satellite paths, and designing telescopes to adjust their trajectories to avoid interference, enabling continued exploration of the cosmos.

SDA Back on Track to Award Tranche 3 Satellite Contracts

December 5, 2025, 9:44 PM EST. The Space Development Agency (SDA) says it is on track to award the next batch of Tranche 3 missile-warning and tracking satellites after the Pentagon shifted funds to cover troop payroll during the most recent government shutdown. Despite the delay, SDA reports funds have been restored and selection(s) will be finalized with public awards soon. The department tapped some SDA money to fund defense payroll, prompting questions about appropriated funds' legality. In fiscal 2026 budget documents, SDA planned about $236 million in October and $535 million in December to procure 54 satellites as part of its Proliferated Space Warfighter Architecture (PWSA). Launch delays due to software readiness and facility access push missions to early 2026, though SDA maintains flexibility to absorb changes without significant impact.

New York Times Sues Perplexity AI Over Alleged Copyright and Trademark Violations

December 5, 2025, 9:24 PM EST. New York Times sues Perplexity AI, alleging copyright infringement for illegally copying millions of articles and displaying them without permission, plus trademark violations under the Lanham Act. The paper says Perplexity's generative AI products produce hallucinations and falsely attribute them to the NYT by displaying them alongside the newspaper's trademarks. The filing contends Perplexity's business model relies on scraping and copying paywalled material to power its tools. Other publishers have made similar accusations, and Perplexity faces lawsuits from Dow Jones, the New York Post, Forbes, and others. The case adds to ongoing tensions between publishers and AI firms over use of copyrighted content. Perplexity, which has raised about $1.5B and counts Nvidia and Bezos among backers, has denied the allegations.

Xiaomi Pad 8 review: powerful, well-equipped budget tablet with desktop mode

December 5, 2025, 9:16 PM EST. Xiaomi Pad 8 is a well-equipped budget tablet that outguns pricier rivals with a bright, flicker-free 3:2 display and a slim aluminum unibody. It stays cool, looks attractive, and supports a work-friendly desktop mode (DeX), plus pen input and a fast USB port with DisplayPort. Storage options are 128 GB/256 GB with 8/12 GB RAM; note there is no microSD and no fingerprint sensor. NFC and an infrared blaster add practical touches. The import Chinese ROM offers limited European languages and no Android Auto, so many will wait for the global version for full language/Google services. HyperOS 3 on an Android-based platform promises flexible multi-window use and timely updates. Compared with Pad 8 Pro, it trades some peak performance for lighter weight and longer battery life.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Deals Hit with Trade-Ins Up to $700 and Big Storage Discounts

December 5, 2025, 9:02 PM EST. Samsung is running a fresh set of Galaxy S25 Ultra deals, including: $700 off with top trade-ins (even higher value for devices like the S24 Ultra; potentially as low as $599 for the 256GB model). In addition, the retailer is offering $385 off the Galaxy S25 Ultra with 512GB storage, unlocking prices lower than the 256GB tier. Samsung also teases exclusive offers that can drop up to $940 off with trade or $545 off without trades. These promos pair instant trade discounts with storage upgrades, and you'll need to check Samsung's site to verify eligibility for your device and storage tier.

Garmin Fenix 8 at record-low $850: month-long battery life and premium features

December 5, 2025, 9:00 PM EST. Want to finish the year strong? The Garmin Fenix 8 is at a record-low $850 after a $350 discount (regularly $1,200). This deal covers the titanium model with pebble gray band-the 51mm size, with other sizes already sold out. It includes premium features like GPS, built-in microphone and speaker, and an LED flashlight, plus comprehensive 24/7 health and fitness tracking (heart rate, sleep, and more). Battery life is outstanding-nearly a month on a single charge, according to CNET reviewer Lexy Savvides. Garmin also accepts HSA/FSA dollars. This limited-time deal makes a high-end smartwatch more accessible if you're shopping for fitness goals or next-year readiness.

7 Best Cyber Monday Tablet Deals You Can Still Get, From a Pro Tablet Reviewer

December 5, 2025, 8:48 PM EST. Still shopping after Thanksgiving? Here are Cyber Monday tablet deals you can still snag, from a tablet reviewer. Apple's iPads remain discounted, with the 11-inch iPad Air M3 and the 13-inch iPad Air M4 at about $100 off each. Android slates show fewer deep discounts but solid savings: the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE at 35% off and the OnePlus Pad 3 near $100 off. Amazon Fire tablets are mostly out of stock or back at full price. In practice, Android and iPad tablets tend to outperform Fire in most areas. Scroll to see which last-minute deals strike your fancy. For more savings, check Tom's Guide's Cyber Week deals guide and other best iPad/Android tablet deals.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra Cyber Week Deal: Trade-In Up to $800 + Free Book Cover Keyboard Slim

December 5, 2025, 8:42 PM EST. Samsung's Cyber Week sale is still live with deals on tablets, including the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra. You can trade in an older Samsung device for up to $800 off, plus a free Book Cover Keyboard Slim (a $209.99 value). If you don't have a trade-in, the tablet is still $100 off, and any Samsung tablet in good condition earns at least $200. The deal offers storage options from 256GB up to 1TB, in gray or silver, and includes the S Pen. The Book Cover Keyboard Slim turns the Tab into a portable second laptop, with notes on improved DeX mode and AI features. It's a strong option among Android tablets, beside iPads in some lists.

Xiaomi Black Shark gaming tablet teased with Snapdragon power, 12GB RAM and 256GB storage

December 5, 2025, 8:40 PM EST. Xiaomi is teasing a new Black Shark gaming tablet powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, boasting 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. Unlike the Pad 7 Pro, the unnamed model has a smaller battery and a charger drop from 45 W to 20 W. XiaomiTime cites a rated 7,300 mAh capacity, with an expected typical close to 7,500 mAh at launch. Launch details remain undisclosed.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold Geekbench 6 Scores Hint at Underwhelming Performance Ahead of December 12 Launch

December 5, 2025, 8:28 PM EST. Leak claims the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold's Geekbench 6 results are underwhelming: single-core 2853 and multi-core 8501, roughly 9.6% and 12.6% below the official scores for the Snapdragon 8 Elite. The scores come ahead of the December 12 South Korea launch. Samsung has argued that a 'perfect and highly finished' product justified last-gen chip usage, but observers suspect cost-cutting is the main motive. Key specs include a 10-inch inner Dynamic LTPO AMOLED display at 2160×1584 and a 6.5-inch outer display at 2520×1080, 16GB RAM, 5,600mAh battery with 45W charging, and IP48 dust and water resistance. Camera setup: 200MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto, plus 10MP selfies on both inner/outer displays. Expect SK price near $2,447 at launch.

Printable Metroid Prime 4 Databook Sparks Nostalgia for Instruction Booklets

December 5, 2025, 8:24 PM EST. Nintendo fans are getting a nostalgic jolt with a printable World Databook for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. The 24-page PDF, hosted on the Japanese Nintendo site, revives the vibe of traditional instruction booklets with sections on controls, characters, locales, and lore. It even includes a printable folding guide so the booklet slots into modern game cases. While many players just open the in-game menu for guidance, this downloadable databook taps into retro charm and tangible collecting. If you're hunting a physical experience, this is a clever bridge between classic packaging and today's digital releases. Will you print one for your shelf?

Tesla's 2025 Holiday Update adds Grok navigation, Photobooth, Dog Mode Live Activity and festive features

December 5, 2025, 8:08 PM EST. Tesla's 2025 Holiday Update focuses on playful, incremental features rather than blockbuster changes. Highlights include the beta Grok navigation feature, now able to add and edit destinations and respond to navigation commands via the in-car assistant, with Grok set to 'Assistant' personality. A new Photobooth lets drivers take selfies and apply filters from Toybox. Dog Mode gains a Live Activity feed that shows cabin snapshots and real-time temperature, battery, and climate data on iPhone. The Dashcam Viewer now displays speed, steering angle, and self-driving state with clips. Santa Mode adds festive visuals (snowmen, trees, lock chime) and there is a new Light Show with Jingle Rush. Overall, updates are smaller playfully useful tweaks.

Pirates VR: Jolly Roger Sails to Quest 3 With Standalone Release Rebuilt for Meta Quest

December 5, 2025, 7:56 PM EST. Pirates VR: Jolly Roger is getting a standalone Quest 3 release, rebuilt and optimized for the Meta Quest platform, after debuting on Steam and PS VR2. Developed by Split Light Studio, the action-adventure sails to a cursed Caribbean island in search of Davy Jones' treasure, with a sarcastic parrot companion guiding you through ruins, puzzles, and combat. The roughly four-hour campaign features weapons like a magic lantern and flintlock pistol. VRKiwi isn't publishing this Quest port; Incuvo handles the edition. The Quest 3 version is slated to arrive after a delay, with a target date of January 29, 2026. Current versions are available on PlayStation VR2 and Steam.

Giant $450 Price Drop Hits Apple's 512GB M4 iPad Pro at Amazon Today

December 5, 2025, 7:54 PM EST. Amazon is slicing around $450 off the 512GB 13-inch M4 iPad Pro (Wi-Fi + Cellular), now at $1,249.97 shipped. This is the lowest price ever tracked for this configuration. The older M4 chip still powers many devices, even as Apple's M5 lineup enters the market. The 512GB cellular model regularly carried about $1,499. On the spec side, the iPad Pro features a 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR display, ProMotion, True Tone, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro. This deal shows the 512GB M4 Pro remains a powerful option today, despite being superseded by the M5.

SpaceX targets up to $800B valuation in secondary share sale, WSJ reports

December 5, 2025, 7:52 PM EST. SpaceX is launching a secondary share sale that could value the company at up to $800 billion according to the Wall Street Journal. The report notes the firm may pursue a public listing as early as late 2026, with Elon Musk signaling possible IPO exposure for Tesla shareholders. The plan would likely include Starlink and reflect SpaceX's lead in reusable rockets, launch infrastructure, and government contracts, while competing with new space players like Blue Origin. Musk cautioned about the downsides of being public, but suggested a path for Tesla shareholders to participate in SpaceX.

Ex-Googler's Yoodli valuation hits $300M+ as AI-powered training tool centers on assistance, not replacement

December 5, 2025, 7:36 PM EST. Yoodli, an AI-powered communication training startup founded by ex-Googler Varun Puri and Esha Joshi, has raised a $40M Series B led by WestBridge Capital, pushing its valuation above $300M. The new funding follows a $13.7M Series A and brings total funding to around $60M. Yoodli's platform uses AI to simulate scenarios like sales calls, interviews, and leadership coaching, offering structured, repeatable practice to improve speaking skills. The company emphasizes that AI assists rather than replaces humans, keeping coaches in the loop for personalized guidance. Major clients include Google, Snowflake, Databricks, RingCentral, and Sandler Sales, with partnerships through training firms like Franklin Covey and LHH. Yoodli aims to scale enterprise training with AI-driven role-plays and experiential learning while preserving the human element.

Got $3,000? 3 AI Stocks to Buy and Hold for the Long Term

December 5, 2025, 7:26 PM EST. Investors aiming to ride the AI wave can consider three long-term AI stocks. The piece argues that AI exposure isn't just about hype; durable businesses in semiconductors and tech platforms can outperform over time. It spotlights ASML, whose EUV lithography machines are essential for the most advanced chips used in data centers, and notes ASML's resilience through cyclical downturns. It also highlights Alphabet (GOOGL/GOOG) as a key player in AI with its Gemini LLM and dominant search/advertising platform driving AI-enabled growth. While the market may fear an AI bubble, owning a trio of established names could diversify risk and offer strong long-term upside. The article suggests splitting about $3,000 across these stocks as a potential smart move for patient investors, even if one waits for a dip to buy.

Am I addicted to my smartwatch? Apple Watch and Galaxy Watch under scrutiny

December 5, 2025, 7:22 PM EST. From a Saturday parkrun start to 24/7 wearing, smartwatches from Apple and Samsung dominate our wrists. This piece asks whether the obsession is a help or a hindrance. Modern wearables go far beyond steps, measuring GPS, sleep, heart rate, HRV, SpO2 and even glucose, turning data into daily coaching. For millions, they're both comfort and pressure-fueling motivation while nudging us with expectations and sleep alarms. The result: a blend of wellbeing insight and potential anxiety as numbers seem to outpace reality. With prices from around £100 to premium bundles, questions about privacy and accuracy linger. Can users switch off without losing the benefits of real-time feedback and fitness insights?

Aaru raises Series A at mixed valuation with $1B headline in AI-driven market research

December 5, 2025, 7:16 PM EST. AI synthetic research startup Aaru pulled a Series A led by Redpoint Ventures, with a blended valuation below $1B despite a $1B headline valuation tied to multi-tier terms. The round size is above $50M, and ARR remains under $10M. Founded in 2024 by Cameron Fink, Ned Koh, and John Kessler, Aaru uses AI agents that simulate human behavior to replace traditional market research. Customers include Accenture, EY, Interpublic Group, and political campaigns; its polling method reportedly predicted the NY Democratic primary. The company competes with Culture Pulse, Simile, and others like Listen Labs, Keplar, and Outset. Seed/pre-seed investors include Abstract Ventures, General Catalyst, Accenture Ventures, and Z Fellows.

SpaceX Starlink dinnertime Falcon 9 launch photos from Cape Canaveral

December 5, 2025, 7:12 PM EST. SpaceX lit up the Florida sky Tuesday with a dinnertime Falcon 9 launch for the Starlink 6-95 mission. Liftoff from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station occurred at 5:18 p.m. local time as the two-stage rocket carried 29 broadband satellites into low-Earth orbit. Clouds drifted overhead and a daylong wind advisory posed gusts up to 35 knots, but the mission proceeded smoothly with a post-launch deployment of the constellation. The photos capture the moment the rocket cleared the horizon, followed by the satellites streaming toward space. For more SpaceX and launch updates from Cape Canaveral and NASA, visit floridatoday.com/space.

AMD Could Overtake Palantir by 2026 as AI Chips Rally Gains Momentum

December 5, 2025, 7:06 PM EST. Palantir has surged >2,000% since the AI boom, lifting its market cap above $400B and eclipsing Salesforce and Adobe. Yet its lofty valuation, with a P/S around 112, raises questions about sustainability as investors demand faster growth. On the other side, AMD looks set to benefit from continued demand for AI chips, challenging Nvidia in the data-center GPU space and potentially widening the AI hardware gap. The author argues that, despite AMD's momentum, the AI rally in semiconductors carries its own risks, including multiple rotation and possible de-rating for Palantir if the growth trajectory slows. The takeaway: investors are betting on AI-driven expansion in both software and hardware, but the 2026 scenario hinges on demand, margins, and how quickly profits normalize after a dramatic rally.

Jolla Seeks Crowdfunded Return With New Sailfish OS Smartphone

December 5, 2025, 6:52 PM EST. Finnish startup Jolla, creator of Sailfish OS, appears to be pursuing a new in-house smartphone via crowdfunding after years of licensing the software to other devices. The project centers on a Jolla Phone advertised as an independent European Do It Together (DIT) device running Sailfish OS. A 2,000-unit preorder threshold by early January is required to proceed; at writing, 383 vouchers have been sold. Price points run about €499 to €599-€699, with the voucher offsetting the cost. The device targets the EU/UK/Norway/Switzerland, and crops up with 12GB RAM, 256GB storage (expandable to 2TB), a user-replaceable battery, physical privacy switches, and a Mediatek 5G platform. No formal announcement has appeared; Jolla's site has been quiet since November 2024.

Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro adds Garmin-style LED flashlight and dual-size rugged design

December 5, 2025, 6:50 PM EST. The Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro arrives at $380 as a rugged outdoor smartwatch. Key highlights include a two-color LED flashlight with safety modes, a built-in speaker and microphone for calls and assistant use, and downloadable navigation maps. Available in two sizes (44mm and 48mm) with a titanium build, sapphire crystal display, and durability down to -30°C. Battery life stretches to about three weeks in typical use (up to 19 days) and about 29 hours in GPS mode. It offers no subscription music services, no mobile payments, and limited third-party apps, but adds resort ski maps, slope color codes, and lift dynamics for outdoor adventures. Debuted at UTMB in Chamonix and designed for trail runners and skiers, with customizable safety-light features.

Pixel Watch 4 Review: Refined Design and Gemini-powered Smarts

December 5, 2025, 6:48 PM EST. Google's Pixel Watch 4 tightens four years of smartwatch work into a polished package. The core design remains the water-droplet aesthetic, now offered in 41mm and 45mm sizes with an aluminum case and an easy, swappable band system. Notable upgrades include a new processor, improved GPS, and Gemini, which slots in as a smarter assistant after Google replaced Google Assistant. The watch is water- and sweat-ready (IP68, 5 ATM) and nearly fully repairable, with swappable battery and screen components. It keeps Fitbit health-tracking strong and refines daily wear with a sturdy, jewelry-like look. For Pixel Watch 3 owners, the upgrade is refined rather than revolutionary; it's worth considering if you want the Gemini boost.

US Senators Move to Block Nvidia's Advanced Chips Exports to China

December 5, 2025, 6:42 PM EST. US senators are seeking to block Nvidia from selling advanced chips to China, arguing national security and competitive concerns. The bipartisan push would tighten export controls on high-end semiconductors and related technologies, pressuring Nvidia to halt or restrict shipments to Chinese customers. The move underscores escalating U.S.-China tech tensions in the AI era and could reshape the global supply chain for GPUs and other semiconductors. If enacted, the policy would affect Nvidia's revenue while signaling a tougher stance on AI hardware exports, with implications for the broader tech ecosystem, manufacturing partners, and research collaborations.

Xtra's DJI Osmo 360 clone costs more than the original

December 5, 2025, 6:40 PM EST. Xtra has released a clone of the DJI Osmo 360, but it comes with a surprise: the clone is priced more than the original. The post teases the new model as a competitor yet raises questions about value and build quality versus DJI's own version. The move underscores a trend of brands launching copycat hardware at premium prices, prompting readers to weigh features, warranty, and support when comparing options.

How a $5 Million Sega Investment Helped Nvidia Become a Tech Giant

December 5, 2025, 6:26 PM EST. On the Joe Rogan Experience, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang recalled that a $5 million Sega investment nearly saved the startup in the 1990s after a failed pitch to win Dreamcast work. Sega, skeptical of Nvidia's immediate prospects, still backed the company; Huang said there was a near-zero chance Nvidia could repay the money. Nvidia used the funds to grow in gaming and beyond, and by 1999's IPO the company was valued at about $300 million, with Sega eventually cashing out. Today, Nvidia dominates GPUs and AI infrastructure, powering titles through GeForce Now and selling to AI companies. Huang quips that if Sega had kept the stake, it might be worth roughly $1 trillion today. The anecdote underscores how tiny early bets can alter the tech landscape.

DJI Unveils FlyCart 100: 100-Kg Heavy-Lift Cargo Drone

December 5, 2025, 6:24 PM EST. DJI unveils the FlyCart 100 (FC100), a next-gen cargo drone designed for aerial delivery with a 100 kilogram payload. Featuring an enhanced wing structure and carbon fiber propellers, the platform can fly up to 12 kilometers on dual batteries and 6 kilometers on a single charge. Quick-recharge capability with high-output chargers and generators supports rapid turnaround, while a dual-battery setup enables mid-flight power swaps. This move signals DJI's push into industrial logistics, highlighting longer range, heavier lift, and flexible power options for real-world deployment.

NVIDIA Unveils CUDA Tile with CUDA 13.1 for Tile-Based GPU Programming

December 5, 2025, 6:22 PM EST. NVIDIA's CUDA 13.1 unveils CUDA Tile, a tile-based programming model built on top of CUDA. The centerpiece is CUDA Tile IR, a virtual instruction set that lets developers partition data into tiles and have the compiler map work onto hardware resources (threads, memory hierarchy) and tensor cores. This enables writing higher-level code that remains portable across GPU generations, abstracting away low-level details while keeping performance. While the traditional SIMT model still underpins execution, CUDA Tile shifts programming toward tiles and tile blocks, letting the runtime optimize mapping across architectures. Libraries like CUDA-X and NVIDIA CUTLASS continue to help extract performance. In effect, this mirrors higher-level array operations (e.g., NumPy) but at the GPU level, simplifying AI workloads without sacrificing control.

Apple-Intel rumors: iPhone chips may join the lineup

December 5, 2025, 6:18 PM EST. Analyst whispers suggest Intel could extend its role from Macs and iPads to the iPhone. A GF Securities research note obtained by MacRumors claims Intel may win a supply deal for some non-pro iPhone chips beginning in 2028, using its future 14A process. The plan envisions Apple continuing to design the chips, with Intel handling fabrication only and sharing production with TSMC. If true, chips like the A22 could appear in devices dubbed the iPhone 20 or 20e within about three years. Separately, Ming-Chi Kuo expects Intel to ship Apple-designed, Arm-based chips for select Mac/iPad models as early as mid-2027 using the 18A process. The arrangement would boost American manufacturing and diversify Apple's supply chain; Intel previously supplied cellular modems for older iPhones.

Apple Design Lead Alan Dye Moves to Meta Reality Labs to Elevate Quest UX

December 5, 2025, 6:06 PM EST. Apple's long-time Human Interface VP Alan Dye is leaving to lead a new studio within Meta's Reality Labs, aiming to raise the bar on the user experience of Meta's glasses and headsets. The move brings Dye, plus other Apple veterans like Billy Sorrentino, to Meta to fuse design, fashion, and technology and to treat intelligence as a new design material. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg says the team will focus on thoughtful, intuitive, people-centered interactions as AI glasses arrive. The change signals Meta's push to unify hardware and software UX, despite critics who say Quest software lags behind its hardware and lacks a clear top-down vision. The new studio promises to bridge hardware/software, UX/UI, and AI-driven design for a more natural user experience.

Galaxy A56 Breaks into Top 10 as Samsung Dominates Q3 2025 Smartphone Sales

December 5, 2025, 5:56 PM EST. Samsung and Apple continued to dominate the global smartphone market in Q3 2025, with five of the top 10 best-selling models for each company. The standout shift: the Galaxy A56 finally broke into the list, ranking 8th as Samsung's best mid-range device of the year. It was joined by the Galaxy A36 at 7th, which outsold the A56. Market watchers credit features like Awesome Intelligence, Best Face, and Nightography. The Galaxy S25 Ultra dropped out of the top 10 after two quarters in 2025. Samsung counted five top-sellers in Q3 (since A16 4G and A16 5G were listed separately). Apple held the top three spots with the iPhone 16, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max, according to Counterpoint Research.

Google Pixel Watch AOD gets timer, stopwatch, and media controls in Clock 6.11

December 5, 2025, 5:52 PM EST. Google is rolling out an update for the Pixel Watches that brings AOD compatibility to the timer, stopwatch, and media controls. The changes appear in Google Clock version 6.11, signaling a broader Wear OS 6 AOD redesign anticipated since July. In AOD, the timer no longer shows the countdown ring; only the time and buttons remain, with seconds digits replaced by dashes and the controls as outlined shapes. The stopwatch follows a similar treatment (countdown ring and increment markers removed; seconds remain, milliseconds replaced by dashes). Media controls also adopt the same outlined AOD design.

To AI or Not to AI? College Students, AI Tools, and the Debate | NPR Consider This

December 5, 2025, 5:50 PM EST. College students are turning to AI tools at higher rates, complicating authorship and learning. In this NPR Consider This episode, a professor at Angelo State University describes a method to detect AI-generated text on student papers, highlighting concerns about originality and agency. Will Teague weighs the tension between using AI for efficiency and the risk of eroding personal skill. The conversation questions where responsibility lies for educators, students, and institutions as powerful models like GPT-5.1 evolve. By examining detection strategies and student attitudes, the episode asks whether AI should be embraced as a learning aid or treated as a challenge to academic integrity. The discussion underscores the need for clear policies, transparent tools, and ongoing dialogue about how to preserve authentic work, critical thinking, and student agency in the AI era.

Is Palantir Poised to Have Its Nvidia Moment in AI Software

December 5, 2025, 5:48 PM EST. Nvidia dominates AI hardware with an estimated 85%-90% share, underpinned by CUDA and a tightly controlled supply chain. Palantir is trying to mirror that success in software with its Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP), launched in 2023, which has driven rapid traction. The company reported a 34% YoY increase in customers in Q3 2023 after AIP's debut, $830 million in contracts that quarter, and 12 deals of $10M+. Palantir's overall customer base was up 45% last quarter, with 53 deals of $10M+ and $2.8 billion in new contracts in Q3, up 151% year over year. If this momentum continues, Palantir could become the Nvidia moment for AI software and a leading platform for enterprise AI deployments.

Russia tightens online control as FaceTime restricted

December 5, 2025, 5:46 PM EST. Russia's internet regulator Roskomnadzor has restricted Apple's FaceTime, alleging the service is used to organize crimes and terrorism. The move comes as Moscow widens a multipronged effort to tighten online control, including blocking Snapchat and blocking calls via WhatsApp and Telegram in recent years. Authorities have deployed restrictive laws, introduced government-approved white lists for essential services, and even shut down cellphone networks in parts of the country. They also promote a state-backed MAX messenger, which claims to share user data with authorities and reportedly lacks end-to-end encryption. While VPNs can circumvent some blocks, they are often blocked. Apple did not respond to comment. The development fits a broader pattern of tightening Internet governance after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

OnePlus Watch Lite skips Wear OS, adds cross-platform support and 10-day battery life

December 5, 2025, 5:44 PM EST. The OnePlus Watch Lite breaks with Wear OS, running a proprietary OS instead to deliver a claimed 10-day battery life while expanding cross-platform support to iPhones. The move marks a departure from OnePlus' Wear OS strategy and positions the watch as an entry-level option, reminiscent of the original OnePlus Watch. Without Wear OS, it loses the Google Play Store and third-party apps, narrowing its app ecosystem but boosting battery efficiency and price appeal. For Android users, it shifts from a budget Wear OS option to more of a fitness-focused wearable, competing with Huawei and Xiaomi on cost and battery rather than apps. Final verdict pending further hands-on testing.

GTA Online's KnoWay robotaxis unleash chaos in new DLC 'A Safehouse in the Hills'

December 5, 2025, 5:42 PM EST. Grand Theft Auto Online's new DLC, 'A Safehouse in the Hills,' introduces KnoWay robotaxis wreaking havoc in the city. The trailer shows lidar-equipped vans crashing through traffic and a billboard, with the company's autonomous-hailing motto 'We Kno where you're going.' The narrative centers on stopping a mass surveillance network and features an AI assistant named Haviland. The homage to real-world tech echoes concerns about autonomous fleets, including Waymo-related vandalism and privacy debates. Waymo has declined to comment and has resisted broad government data requests. The update drops December 10, bringing high-octane sci-tech action to GTA players while continuing the franchise's meta-commentary on surveillance culture.

Automa Aims for Half-Life: Alyx Vibes in Standalone Quest VR

December 5, 2025, 5:40 PM EST. Automa, from Phosphor (developers of The Brookhaven Experiment), aims for Half-Life: Alyx-style immersion in a standalone VR experience. Shown in the UploadVR Showcase, the game supports Quest 3 (and later Quest 2/PSVR2/Steam) and embraces a story-driven action-adventure ethos. Early demos highlight gravity gloves to pull objects, openable drawers and doors, and a surprising array of animal interactions. Phosphor describes a near-future city where fears of AI misalignment rise, with the world designed for immersive VR that yields emergent, player-driven moments. Aesthetic details evoke a City 17-like atmosphere, deep interactions, and a sense of place that could match the opening of Alyx while remaining its own experience. Wishlist now for Quest and PC VR platforms; development continues with player feedback shaping next steps.

Alphabet Could Benefit Most as AI Hardware and Software Evolve

December 5, 2025, 5:38 PM EST. The next phase of AI will hinge on both hardware diversification and AI software that integrates smoothly with existing tools, and Alphabet appears uniquely positioned. Google has long built its own TPU AI processors for data centers, and new reports suggest Meta could buy some TPUs, signaling potential upside beyond Nvidia's dominance. Morgan Stanley models could sell 0.5-1 million TPUs by 2027, boosting Alphabet's cloud revenue and even EPS. Yet hardware is only half the story: Alphabet is also pushing software-driven AI through agents and tools that compete with OpenAI's ChatGPT. If Alphabet monetizes its chips and complements them with strong software, it could capture a leading share of the next AI wave.

Apple Inc. (AAPL): Bull Case Highlights and Growth Outlook

December 5, 2025, 5:36 PM EST. A bullish thesis on Apple (AAPL) argues that the company's durable growth hinges on a high-margin Services ecosystem, strong iPhone demand, and expanding AI infrastructure. In Q3, Apple posted $102.5B revenue, up ~8% YoY, with EPS $1.85, gross margin 47.2%, and operating margin 31.6%. Free cash flow reached a record $29.7B, underpinning a fortress balance sheet (cash $132B, net cash $34B) and sizable shareholder returns ($24B in buybacks/dividends). Services hit a fresh high ($28.8B, +15%), driven by App Store, ads, cloud, and payments; iPhone revenue rose to $49B despite China supply constraints. Management guides continued double-digit Services growth and mid-teens overall revenue growth into FY26, with AI investment and Private Cloud compute as catalysts. Risks include supply dynamics and macro headwinds.

SpaceX Starlink Faces Waterproofing Issue, Free Replacement Cables for Advanced PSU and Gen 3 Performance Dish

December 5, 2025, 5:34 PM EST. SpaceX's Starlink has identified a waterproofing issue affecting cables for its advanced power supply. In response, the company is shipping free replacement cables to buyers of the Gen 3 Performance dish and the advanced PSU, which costs $1,999. The move addresses hardware reliability as premium equipment support continues.

Google Messages rolls out major photo viewer redesign with fullscreen mode and grouped images

December 5, 2025, 5:32 PM EST. Google Messages is rolling out a major photo viewer redesign. Tapping an image or video opens a fullscreen viewer with a blurred background, centered media with curved corners, and left/right hints to swipe through other thread media. A top bar shows the sender and timestamp with Download and Delete actions; a three-dot menu exposes Forward, Share, Star, and View details. An emoji row at the bottom includes Photomoji, plus a full picker. In the thread, images sent together are now grouped for a more compact look. The update is widening across stable and beta channels; a small tweak to the fullscreen camera adds rounded bottom corners (beta).

Best smartphone deal: Google Pixel 10 hits its lowest price yet – $699 (Unlocked 256GB) on Amazon

December 5, 2025, 5:28 PM EST. Time for a serious upgrade: the Pixel 10 just dropped to $699 (Unlocked, 256GB) at Amazon, saving $200 off the $899 list price. That's a 22% discount and the lowest price we've seen for this model. Available as of Dec. 5, 2025, the deal puts flagship performance, clean Android updates, and fast 5G in reach for shoppers who want top-tier features without breaking the bank. Prices can change after publication, so act quickly if you're eyeing the Pixel 10.

Horses a hit, but Santa Ragione still faces closure risk after Steam ban

December 5, 2025, 5:26 PM EST. After being banned from Steam two years ago, indie studio Santa Ragione faced real fears of closure as their game Horses struggled to find a home. The title later became a bestseller on GOG and drew attention from journalists and players curious about what could trigger such a ban. Co-founder Pietro Righi Riva says he borrowed roughly $100,000 to keep the lights on, but the fear lingers: even with publicity, the lack of Steam access limits audience reach. Director Andrea Lucco Borlera remains cautiously optimistic about the reception, yet notes storefront bans aren't a full solution. Horses ascent shows the power-and peril-of indie success outside the biggest platforms, leaving the studio financially fragile despite the momentum.

Chamberlain blocks smart home integrations with its garage door openers

December 5, 2025, 5:24 PM EST. Chamberlain Group's new Security+ 3.0 platform powers its latest garage door openers and shuts down third-party workarounds that let smart homes talk to Apple Home, Home Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and more. Aftermarket controllers from Ratgdo and Meross won't be able to interface with older openers via dry-contact or software tricks anymore. Customers are steered toward the MyQ app and a curated set of paid-subscription integrations, with free control limited to the app itself. The move signals a tighter, subscription-driven ecosystem and follows Chamberlain's quiet departure from the Connectivity Standards Alliance; even as Matter expands, Chamberlain's openness is limited. Users seeking interoperable smart-home control face reduced options and rising lock-in.

Gen Z and Millennials Race to Upskill in AI

December 5, 2025, 5:22 PM EST. Tech-driven upskilling is accelerating among the youngest workers. Gen Z and Millennials are pouring money and time into AI courses and certificates, driven by data from major learning platforms and surveys. Deloitte's 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey shows nearly six in ten Gen Zs and 57% of Millennials believe the prevalence of generative AI will require reskilling and shape their career plans. Coursera's 2024 Global Skills Report parallels this: in 2023 a generative AI course was enrolled in every minute; 2024 enrollment surged, with GenAI courses up by 1,060% YoY. Udemy finds AI topics among the fastest-growing and strong Gen Z engagement. LinkedIn's Workplace Learning Report notes four in five want to learn AI, with employers prioritizing upskilling and internal mobility. The message: faster, guided paths to AI fluency beat casual on-the-job learning.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3 gets $270 off at Best Buy in three-day sale ending Sunday

December 5, 2025, 5:20 PM EST. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is on sale at Best Buy for $529.99 – $270 off the regular price. This three-day deal runs through Sunday. The pocketable camera adds a 1-inch sensor, 4K/60fps, and 10-bit processing, packaged in a device that fits in your pocket. With 3-axis stabilization, it stays smooth in both portrait and landscape modes. Audio can be boosted with DJI's microphones, and the Creator Combo (DJI Mic 2 included) is available. If you've waited for a price cut, this is among the best deals yet before the sale ends.

Best iPad deals this week: $100 off iPad Air M3, plus Pro discounts

December 5, 2025, 5:16 PM EST. This week's top iPad deals center on the iPad Air (13-inch, M3) at $699 ($100 off MSRP) and the standard 11-inch iPad Pro (M5) at $927 ($72 off). The 13-inch iPad Pro (M5) is also discounted to $1,199 (-$100). Apple gear beyond iPads-AirPods 4 with ANC, Apple Watch SE 3, and Apple Pencil Pro-are still on sale at Black Friday prices. With faster chips, brighter displays, and better accessory support, these discounts offer real value for the right buyer, though stock is limited and not all colors are on sale. If you're shopping today, these are the most notable price cuts this week across Apple's tablet lineup and ecosystem.

Tesla TSLA: A Bull Case in AI-Driven Autonomy and Optimus Robotics

December 5, 2025, 5:12 PM EST. Tesla sits at the frontier of AI-driven autonomy and robotics, with FSD informing the Optimus humanoid platform. The company's Master Plan Part 4 elevates AI and robotics, projecting that robots could represent ~80% of Tesla's long-term value. A $685 million order from Sanhua for linear actuators signals capacity for roughly 180,000 robots. Near-term goals target multiple thousands in 2025, 50k-100k in 2026, and 500k-1,000k annually by 2030, with unit costs of $20k-$30k and a global humanoid market forecast of $218B by 2030. Optimus 3 is an upgraded design with improved thermal, battery, and payload, while FSD neural networks underpin humanoid control. The longer-term vision envisions a $25 trillion company, though execution risks remain. A scalable robot supply chain could unlock durable AI-driven cash flow beyond vehicles.

Samsung One UI 8.5 leak hints at a major redesign across Clock, Calculator, and Internet apps

December 5, 2025, 5:10 PM EST. Samsung's One UI 8.5 is shaping up to be a major visual overhaul. Leaks suggest a bigger redesign across core system apps, with 3D neomorphic effects, brighter color palettes, and transparency touches inspired by iOS 26. The Clock, Calculator, and Samsung Internet apps are all slated for updates, including new iconography and deeper UI refinements. The Calculator reportedly gains a refined UI, enhanced button elevation, bluish-green selection gradient, new animations, and clipboard access for suggestions. Clock could gain more vibrant colors, more detailed world clock visuals, and updated timer/stopwatch UI. Samsung Internet may get more backgrounds and visual upgrades. These changes indicate Samsung's push toward a bolder, colorful One UI 8.5 ahead of a wider rollout.

AI Server Market to Reach $2,235.86 Billion by 2033 Driven by HPC and AI Adoption, Says SNS Insider

December 5, 2025, 5:08 PM EST. The global AI Server Market was valued at USD 182.06 billion in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 2,235.86 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 36.91% from 2026 to 2033. The expansion is driven by a rising need for high-performance computing to power AI, ML, and DL workloads, along with growing cloud-based AI services, big data analytics, and autonomous technologies. In the U.S., the market is seen at USD 62.16 billion in 2025E, rising to USD 753.53 billion by 2033 (CAGR 36.69%). Segmentation highlights include: GPU-based servers accounting for about 72% of revenue, Air cooling leading with ~53% share, while Liquid cooling is expected to grow fastest. Rack-mounted servers dominate at ~81% share; IT & Telecommunication leads end-use at ~34%, with Automotive fastest-growing 2026-2033 due to ADAS and autonomous driving.

Horror game Horses banned from Steam and Epic Stores amid controversy

December 5, 2025, 5:06 PM EST. Santa Ragione's horror title Horses has been banned from Steam, followed by a removal from Epic Games Store just weeks before its launch, with a brief pull from Humble Store and a quick reinstatement. The controversy centers on graphic and disturbing themes, including slavery, torture, sexual violence, and misogyny, as outlined in a prominent content warning. The game tasks players with tending to 'horses'-nude humans wearing horse heads-while performing slow, mundane tasks, punctuated by disturbing scenes. Valve says Steam reviewed the build in 2023 and, after feedback, declined to ship it according to internal guidelines. Despite the bans, itch.io and GOG have seen strong interest, highlighting how controversy can boost visibility even as stores decide what to publish.

X's Location Labels Spark Privacy, Misinformation, and Bot-Mitigation Debate

December 5, 2025, 5:04 PM EST. X (formerly Twitter) began rolling out location labels on account pages to show origin, but many labels were inaccurate or hinted at non-U.S. bases for political accounts. The feature aimed to curb bots and misinformation, but experts call it a constant cat-and-mouse game. NBC News reports an anonymous X employee said the idea was previously rejected due to risks of manipulation and backfiring. VPNs can mask location, complicating accuracy. Critics argue the labels may not curb misinformation or bot activity meaningfully, though they have sparked debate. Corrections will be updated on a delayed, randomized schedule to protect privacy, per X. Analysts caution the strategy could backfire and be more performative than substantive.

SpaceX Secures Environmental Approval for Starship at SLC-37

December 5, 2025, 5:02 PM EST. SpaceX has reportedly secured environmental approval to proceed with Starship activities at Launch Complex 37 (SLC-37). The decision marks a milestone for the program, enabling further testing and potential launches subject to ongoing regulatory oversight. The approval highlights continued collaboration between SpaceX and authorities to ensure compliance with environmental safeguards, site safety, and community considerations as Starship work progresses at Cape Canaveral.

CNN and CNBC Team Up with Kalshi to Bring Prediction Markets to News Coverage

December 5, 2025, 4:46 PM EST. Media outlets CNN and CNBC are expanding into prediction markets by partnering with Kalshi to embed real-time market data into journalism. The alliances aim to feature live betting data on politics, weather, and other events across linear TV and digital platforms, with Kalshi insights used by reporters and analysts such as Harry Enten. The move signals a growing trend of tech-enabled monetization in newsrooms, drawing criticism over the ethical implications of wagering on current events and human suffering, including markets tied to famine and violence in Gaza. Critics warn that turning serious global crises into gambling props risks normalizing harm and undermining journalistic objectivity, even as competition among networks accelerates adoption of data-driven storytelling and live odds.

T-Mobile Business Internet from $50/Month: What You Need to Know

December 5, 2025, 4:44 PM EST. Looking to cut costs on connectivity? T-Mobile's business internet options start around $50 per month, offering competitive speeds for small teams and remote offices. The plan typically includes a straightforward sign-up process, with flexible hardware options and a mix of wireless connectivity options. Key considerations: coverage in your area, advertised speeds vs. real-world performance, data caps or throttling, installation timelines, equipment charges, and whether service comes with added features like static IPs or 24/7 support. For businesses with fluctuating bandwidth needs, the carrier's line-up may scale with usage. Bottom line: compare speeds, reliability, and total monthly cost to decide if T-Mobile business internet fits your budget and needs.

The ultimate iPhone accessories guide: cases, chargers, stands and more

December 5, 2025, 4:40 PM EST. Discover top iPhone accessories to protect, charge, and personalize your device. The guide highlights OtterBox durability, MagSafe compatibility, and affordable options that support wireless charging. It covers the Apple silicone case for a lightweight, scratch-resistant fit on newer models, and a leather case with a built-in stand and MagSafe alignment for portrait or landscape use. Learn how screen protectors guard the display and camera lenses, while raised edges help prevent cracks. From rugged drops to stylish personalization, these picks extend battery life, improve grip, and keep your iPhone looking its best across models like iPhone 13/14 and 16/17.

iPhone Air resale value plunges faster than the iPhone 17 line, up to 47.4% drop in 10 weeks – SellCell report

December 5, 2025, 4:38 PM EST. New data from SellCell shows the iPhone Air experiences a steeper early depreciation than the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup, dropping up to 47.4% in the first 10 weeks. While not labeled a flop, the model's value trend contrasts with the stabilizing depreciation of the iPhone 17 and other siblings after week six. Analysts note Apple may shift production of the Air toward end-of-life volumes with a follow-up not expected until 2027. SellCell's methodology tracks 52 iPhone SKUs since the iPhone 14, revealing the Air trailing the 16 line (43.4%) and the wider 17 family (around 40%), with long-term resale confidence in question. Full report and methodology linked.

Nvidia NVDA Stock Rises on AI Infrastructure Demand as Foxconn Signals Strength

December 5, 2025, 4:36 PM EST. Nvidia NVDA shares rose briefly on Friday as investors flagged ongoing AI infrastructure spending after vendor updates. While intraday gains faded to a small loss at the close, signals from Foxconn showed stronger revenue and robust demand for AI servers, a market that relies on Nvidia accelerators. In contrast, HPE offered softer revenue guidance, underscoring uneven progress in enterprise AI rollouts. The takeaway: Foxconn's near-term factory and server-build activity could translate into sustained Nvidia orders for silicon, supporting expectations for the Blackwell chip and expanding collaborations. Overall, sentiment suggests Nvidia is well positioned to capture a large slice of the AI infrastructure market, translating vendor data into potential stock gains in the short term.

Apple Stock Forecast: Rally Hopes, AI Edge, and New Devices Could Push AAPL Toward New Highs

December 5, 2025, 4:34 PM EST. Apple's stock has a history of sharp rallies, with multi-week gains that traders watch for catalysts. AAPL's upside is supported by near-$100B annual services revenue, rising iPhone 17 demand, and a more defined AI strategy via Apple Intelligence and a potential collaboration with Google Gemini. Catalysts include a foldable iPhone (H2 2026), Vision Pro 2 with M5, and new smart home devices, all likely to accelerate upgrade cycles. Fundamentals show solid cash flow-roughly 23.5% FCF margin and 31.9% operating margin LTM-though the stock trades around a 38x P/E. Risks include past drawdowns during major crises. If AI-driven services and hardware upgrades unlock additional revenue, the stock could reach new highs and reward momentum investors.

MLS Cup 2025: Free Apple TV Stream This Saturday

December 5, 2025, 4:32 PM EST. Inter Miami CF hosts Vancouver Whitecaps FC for MLS Cup 2025, the league's 30th season finale. The match streams free in over 100 countries on Apple TV at 2:30 p.m. ET this Saturday, December 6. Both teams reach the final for the first time, with this matchup featuring the rare MLS meeting between Lionel Messi and Thomas Müller. Inter Miami clinched the Eastern Conference by defeating NYCFC 5-1; Vancouver knocked out San Diego FC 3-1 to win the Western Conference. Viewers can watch via the Apple TV app on devices or at tv.apple.com, plus a live Times Square broadcast on SILVERCAST's Mega-Zilla. Pre/game coverage starts 1:30 p.m. ET with MLS Countdown and MLS La Previa, English and Spanish commentary, and postgame recaps.

Apple 2025 Ultra Band Deals: Alpine, Trail, and Ocean Up to 29% Off

December 5, 2025, 4:30 PM EST. Apple's 2025 Ultra watch bands are finally seeing notable price drops. Deals on the Alpine, Trail, and Ocean lineup promise up to 29% off, with prices from $70. The standout is the M/L Trail Loop in Green/Neon at an all-time low of $81.18 shipped, while the M/L Trail Loop in Blue/Bright Blue sits near $70.29, roughly 30% off list price. These aren't sweeping discounts, but current-generation official Apple Watch Ultra bands rarely dip this deep this close to launch. If you're shopping ahead of the holidays, these price drops on the official Apple Watch Ultra bands could be smart savings for the model you actually want. Affiliate links may be used.

Apple Gift Guide 2025: Best Deals and Buying Advice for Every Product

December 5, 2025, 4:28 PM EST. Updated December 5, 2025, this Apple gift guide helps you choose the right product and snag top deals across the lineup. Highlights include the M4 MacBook Air at $749 (reg. $999), the arrival of AirPods Pro 3 with new health features, and strong pricing on AirPods Pro 2. Also consider AirPods 4 variants for noise cancellation without the in-ear design, plus the option of AirPods Max for premium listening. For wearables, the Apple Watch Series 11 and the rugged Apple Watch Ultra 3 offer new health features, longer battery life, and 5G. The guide also notes the extended holiday return period (November 12, 2025-December 25, 2025; returns by January 8, 2026) and directs readers to 9to5Toys for the latest deals.

UW-Madison Board Approves College of Computing and AI

December 5, 2025, 4:24 PM EST. The Board of Regents approved turning the School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences into a standalone College of Computing and AI at UW-Madison, with operations slated to begin on July 1, 2026. The reorganization will unite computer sciences, the Information School, and statistics under one college. Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin said the move is about more than a new unit; it aims to position the university to lead in innovation and to advance knowledge for the common good as computing intersects with every profession and discipline, from patient care to research and the humanities.

SpaceX Could Carry 99% of Earth's Cargo to Orbit as Starship Aims for Daily Launch Cadence

December 5, 2025, 4:22 PM EST. Elon Musk says SpaceX is accelerating toward a future where Starship could carry about 99% of Earth's payload to orbit once it reaches a high-cadence schedule, flying several times a day. Current figures show SpaceX accounting for about 97% of US- launched mass and 83% of the global total, underscoring its dominance in the launch market. The eight Chinese launchers trail at roughly 8.6%, while smaller players fade after the Israel Defense Forces overtook Rocket Lab in payload mass. Starship's 11th test flight in October moves it closer to operational status, with goals including Mars cargo missions by 2030 at an estimated $100M per ton, and even speculative ideas like solar-powered AI satellites. If Starship flies daily, global lift capacity could expand dramatically.

OnePlus 15 overheating fix tested – update reduces heat and stabilizes performance

December 5, 2025, 4:18 PM EST. After OnePlus pushed a thermal update, we re-tested the OnePlus 15. CPU performance remains solid on GeekBench 6 and actually edges higher in multi-core mode with performance mode. 3DMark scores improve in Solar Bay and Wild Life Extreme, and the stress test now completes without the prior lockups. Internal temps peak near 47°C, down from the earlier roughly 53°C external observation, signaling substantially cooler under load. In sustained testing, the OnePlus 15 throttles later and remains competitive with the realme GT8 Pro and OPPO Find X9 Pro. By the end of ~20 runs, performance settles at around 60% of the max, aligning with last year's OnePlus 13 in behavior. The update delivers a more stable gaming experience under load.

Nomad Stratos: Titanium + FKM Band for Apple Watch Ultra

December 5, 2025, 4:14 PM EST. Nomad's Stratos band blends titanium hardware with FKM fluoroelastomer for a premium, comfortable fit on the Apple Watch Ultra. Its dual-material construction offers the weight and elegance of a metal band while delivering flex and comfort during workouts. The band features a grade 4 titanium exterior, a magnetic push-button clasp, and easy resizing via spring-bar links. Available in black or natural titanium with color accents like orange and volt, it pairs strikingly with the Ultra's design. Priced at $179, it aims to be a gift-ready, luxury choice without sacrificing wearability or comfort.

Deals: Galaxy Watch 8, Tab S10 Ultra, and Odyssey monitor see major price cuts

December 5, 2025, 4:12 PM EST. Today's Lunch Break highlights deep price cuts on Samsung gear: the Galaxy Watch 8 44mm LTE is down to $269.99 at Woot, a $160 off deal that undercuts Samsung and Amazon, though with a 90-day warranty. The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is seeing a straight $400 off on all configurations, with up to $500 with trade-in. Samsung is also driving a marquee offer with the 27-inch 3D 4K Odyssey monitor, chopped by $1,100. The broader Samsung Cyber Week sale is live, and some prices vary by retailer. Watches and tabs appear with caveats on direct-site pricing versus third-party retailers; check warranties and stock before buying. More details and additional offers are in the full post.

Four Apple products rumored to launch as soon as January 2026

December 5, 2025, 4:08 PM EST. Apple is reportedly lining up a busy early-2026 slate, with four main hardware launches expected as soon as January. Rumors point to 14-inch MacBook Pro and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with M5 Pro and M5 Max, following the M5 rollout in fall devices. A new 12.9-inch MacBook is said to target a lower price point (around $599-$699) and run an A18 Pro chip. The next iPad is expected to ship with an A18 chip and Apple Intelligence support, maintaining its familiar design. An iPhone 17e entry model is anticipated, likely priced around $599, featuring the A19 chip and Center Stage front camera with the Dynamic Island design changes. Wildcards include M5 MacBook Air, M4 iPad Air, and new Mac displays.

Character.AI on 60 Minutes: CBS News Investigates AI Chatbot Safety and Dangers

December 5, 2025, 4:06 PM EST. CBS News' Sharyn Alfonsi investigates the potential hazards of AI chatbots, focusing on Character.AI and how vulnerable users, including teens, may encounter sexually explicit or harmful content. The report highlights families who say their loved ones were steered toward dangerous conversations, revealing gaps in moderation, detection, and platform policies. It examines the scale of rapidly growing AI technology, the challenges of content filtering, and the responsibilities of developers, moderators, and regulators to protect users. The piece calls for stronger safety controls, clearer warning systems, and ongoing oversight as AI chatbots become more integrated into everyday life.

SpaceX Share Sale Could Value Company at $500 Billion

December 5, 2025, 4:04 PM EST. SpaceX is reportedly preparing to sell insider shares, a move that could push Elon Musk's aerospace company to a valuation above $500 billion, potentially surpassing OpenAI's record. Bloomberg's Ed Ludlow cites people familiar with the matter. If confirmed, the deal would underscore growing investor appetite for founder-led tech businesses and highlight SpaceX's expanding role in space launch, satellite networks, and related services. The outcome remains uncertain, but a successful sale would mark a landmark milestone in private market valuations for aerospace and tech startups.

Most iPhone 17 Screen Protectors Could Break Apple's New Anti-Reflective Glass

December 5, 2025, 3:58 PM EST. iPhone 17 introduces Ceramic Shield 2 glass with built-in AR (anti-reflective) coating that improves outdoor visibility and reduces eye strain. The tougher glass is still not shatterproof; drop height and impact area matter, so using a screen protector remains wise. However, most generic screen protectors can "kill" the AR advantage by blocking air contact that enables the coating's destructive interference. Without direct air, the display becomes more reflective, dulling the AR effect compared with the iPhone 16 Pro. Astropad sells AR-enabled protectors (Fresh Coat) that preserve the coating. In short: unless you pick an AR-capable protector, your glass cover may lose its anti-reflective benefit even while staying more scratch-resistant.

UploadVR Winter 2025 Showcase Bundle: 9 SteamVR Games for $17

December 5, 2025, 3:54 PM EST. UploadVR launches the Winter 2025 Showcase Bundle on Humble, packing nine SteamVR games for $17 (split into two tiers). The $10 tier includes four titles: After The Fall: Deluxe Edition, Guardians: Frontline, The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners, and A Fisherman's Tale 2. The $17 tier adds the remaining five: Z.O.N.A: Origin, Metal: Hellsinger VR, I Expect You To Die 3: Cog in the Machine, Ghosts of Tabor, and Hellsweeper VR. Proceeds support the Electronic Frontier Foundation, with an adjustable revenue split among publishers, Humble, and charities. Prices shown are minimums; you can choose to pay more to donate. The bundle runs through December 26 at 6pm PT.

Philips' AI Imaging Push at RSNA 2025 Could Shape 2026 Outlook for ENXTAM:PHIA

December 5, 2025, 3:52 PM EST. Royal Philips' RSNA 2025 showcases an AI-enabled, radiation-sparing imaging push, expanding LumiGuide 3D Device Guidance across Europe and the US and unveiling the helium-free BlueSeal Horizon 3.0T MRI with integrated AI. The company reiterates its 2026 earnings guidance and targets sequential growth in sales as it weighs execution on earnings against a fragile cash flow backdrop. The launches reinforce Philips' strategy to pair safer, more efficient procedures with a more predictable medium-term performance narrative, while bond tender offers signal a focus on balance-sheet health. Yet investors weigh valuation dispersion-some estimates still place current prices well above fair value-and the challenge remains whether the pipeline translates into stronger margins and cash generation. Overall, AI imaging leadership could be a key catalyst if execution meets expectations and cash flow expands.

Chopard, Boss, Lancôme launch shoppable AR boutiques in Snapchat Winter Village

December 5, 2025, 3:48 PM EST. Snapchat teams with luxury brands Chopard, Boss, and Lancôme to launch a shoppable AR experience called the Snapchat Winter Village. Three virtual boutiques let users browse products, tap interactive cards, and complete purchases via each brand's e-commerce site. Running through Dec. 31 and built with creative studio Atomic, the activation mimics the in-store shopping experience to appeal to Gen Z, who still value tactile, in-store discovery. In each boutique, AR helps shoppers explore details-Chopard shows watches and jewelry; Lancôme presents a train-inspired fragrance journey with new scents; Boss debuts an Augmented Factory with a Steiff collaboration. The effort signals luxury brands' push to blend digital discovery with physical-world shopping.

iPhone 16 Tops Global Smartphone Sales in Q3 2025, Counterpoint Finds

December 5, 2025, 3:46 PM EST. Counterpoint Research says the iPhone 16 was the top-selling smartphone worldwide in Q3 2025, underscoring sustained demand for Apple's flagship lineup. The data highlights a competitive Android landscape and resilient shipments across major regions, with consumers prioritizing camera quality, performance, and the app ecosystem. Counterpoint's global market intelligence tracks supply chains, device introductions, and market dynamics to inform manufacturers, retailers, and investors.

Apple's Obsolete and Vintage Device Lists Expand: Which iPhones and iPads No Longer Get Updates

December 5, 2025, 3:42 PM EST. Apple has issued an updated list of obsolete and vintage devices, meaning those models will no longer receive repairs or iOS security updates. The update broadens coverage for iPhones and iPads, highlighting models like the iPhone SE and iPhone 6s on the obsolete list, and adding iPhone X, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone 11 Pro Max to the vintage lineup. In short, these devices won't get important security patches (including future iOS updates such as iOS 26). Without patches, devices can slow, crash, and become vulnerable to malware or data breaches. If you own one of these models, consider upgrading to a supported device or taking heightened precautions to protect accounts and data, especially for banking and shopping apps.

Is the Cybertruck Tesla's Best Vehicle Ever? New Data Challenge Elon Musk's Claim

December 5, 2025, 3:40 PM EST. The Tesla Cybertruck is not living up to hype or Elon Musk's claim that it's the company's best vehicle ever. After a splashy reveal and near-million reservations, actual sales remain weak relative to rivals and other Teslas. A Yale study links Musk's 2022 political pivot to losses in U.S. car sales, while the Ford F-150 Lightning now outsells the Cybertruck. Year-to-date 2025 data show the Cybertruck at about 16,100 units (down ~38% vs 2024), versus Ford's 23,034 Lightning sales (up ~1%). Tesla's lineup continues to be led by the Model Y and Model 3, with the Cybertruck remaining far from the top seller and facing mixed reviews.

Elon Musk hints Tesla drivers may text while driving with FSD, sparking safety and legality questions

December 5, 2025, 3:38 PM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk signaled that, with a newer Full Self-Driving (FSD) update, drivers might be allowed to text behind the wheel in certain traffic contexts. The announcement follows a 30-day trial of FSD features such as traffic-aware cruise control and Autosteer. Safety experts caution that texting while driving remains illegal in most states, making Musk's stance controversial. He has suggested the car could be trusted to handle multitasking, a view that echoes earlier comments at Tesla's shareholder meeting. Regulators at the NHTSA are investigating FSD over crashes, while Tesla warns in its Owner's Manual not to use handheld devices with Autopilot. The debate pits automation ambitions against safety rules and U.S. policy on distracted driving.

China's Moore Threads Surges 5x on STAR Market Debut, Signals Beijing's AI Chips Push

December 5, 2025, 3:32 PM EST. China's Moore Threads, founded by former Nvidia executive Zhang Jianzhong, staged a blockbuster STAR Market debut, raising over $1 billion and surging more than fivefold. The chipmaker closed Friday at 600.5 yuan, pushing its market cap to about RMB 282.3 billion. Retail demand overwhelmed supply, underscoring appetite for domestic AI chips as Beijing pursues self-reliance amid tighter export controls on advanced GPUs. IPO proceeds will fund GPU R&D and working capital. Analysts say Moore Threads still trails foreign platforms on key metrics, but policy support and robust capital could accelerate China's AI ecosystem, with other listed players like MetaX eyeing follow-ons. If Beijing sustains momentum, China's semiconductor IPOs may become a lens on the next wave of AI infrastructure spending.

Meta Acquires AI Wearable Startup Limitless to Expand Personal Superintelligence

December 5, 2025, 3:30 PM EST. Limitless, an AI-powered pendant maker, has been acquired by Meta, according to founder Dan Siroker in a video and blog post. The deal expands Meta's push into AI-enabled wearables as it aims to deliver personal superintelligence across devices. Financial terms were not disclosed. Limitless' pendant records conversations and generates summaries, adding to Meta's growing suite of AI wearables that include Ray-Ban smart glasses with AI features. The acquisition positions Meta to compete with other AI wearables from firms like Friend, Plaud, and Bee, and aligns with Meta's broader strategy to embed AI assistants across its hardware and software ecosystems.

Trump Mobile's refurbished iPhones are an overpriced gamble

December 5, 2025, 3:26 PM EST. Trump Mobile is selling refurbished iPhones-iPhone 14 at $489 and iPhone 15 at $629-even though Apple no longer offers refurbished 14s and the 16E is priced lower at $599. When shoppers compare, third-party retailers offer far cheaper options (Amazon around $305 for 14 and $429.99 for the 15; Best Buy $327 and $479.97; Back Market up to $398 or $536 for Premium). The store's products are limited to base 128GB configurations with no Plus/Pro variants or color choices, which reduces value. Galaxy options aren't as bad, with Trump Mobile pricing at $369 for the S23 and $459 for the S24, still undercutting Samsung's renewal pricing but overall value is unclear, and the refurbisher/guarantees remain unspecified.

AI Safety Index Grades OpenAI, Anthropic; Most Firms Fall Short on Existential Safety

December 5, 2025, 3:16 PM EST. A new AI Safety Index from the Future of Life Institute grades major AI firms on their efforts to keep humanity safe from potential harms. The index, based on 35 indicators across six categories – including existential safety, risk assessment, and information sharing – found that the highest grade was a C+, given to OpenAI and Anthropic. Google DeepMind earned a C, while Meta, xAI, Z.ai, and DeepSeek received D grades, and Alibaba Cloud trailed with a D-. Scorers noted that all firms ranked below average in existential safety, highlighting weak internal monitoring and a lack of credible plans for preventing catastrophic misuse or loss of control as AGI advances. OpenAI and DeepMind defended their safety work in statements, emphasizing ongoing research, safeguards, and transparency.

How Much Would You Pay for a Single AI Killer App? Pricing, Valuation, and Market Demand

December 5, 2025, 3:10 PM EST. Explores how businesses value and price a potential AI killer app. From ROI projections and total addressable market to licensing models and maintenance costs, the piece weighs how much customers would pay for a transformative AI product. It covers common pricing approaches-per-user, per-tenant, usage-based, and tiered subscriptions-and analyzes the strategic factors that drive willingness to pay, such as integration ease, data security, and competitive advantage. The article also considers risks, stovepipe deployments, and the importance of demonstrating measurable business value through pilots and case studies. Readers will come away with a framework to estimate price, justify premium features, and align product, sales, and marketing to win early adopters and scale to broader markets.

Sony's LYTIA 901: 8K Mobile Sensor with 17 Stops of Dynamic Range

December 5, 2025, 3:04 PM EST. Sony's LYTIA 901 CMOS image sensor is designed to elevate mobile cinematography. The sensor delivers native 8K recording and more than 17 stops of dynamic range thanks to a stacked architecture, Dual Conversion Gain HDR, and a 12-bit ADC pipeline. Its Quad Quad Bayer Coding (QQBC) arrangement lets small pixels operate at high resolution or merge for higher sensitivity, providing flexibility across lighting, focal length, and frame rate. The platform supports smooth highlight roll-off, cleaner shadows, and advanced grading in HDR workflows, with a readout system that preserves high throughput during 8K at 30fps and 4K higher-speed modes through intelligent binning. The result is reduced motion artifacts and more usable footage in everyday mobile contexts.

Lithium Americas Nationalization and Its Implications for EV Battery Recycling

December 5, 2025, 3:02 PM EST. The Trump administration's partial takeover of the lithium miner Lithium Americas Corporation and its 5% stake in the Thacker Pass project raises questions for the future of EV battery recycling. While domestic lithium supply is prioritized, this move could tilt government interests toward expanded mining over recycling infrastructure. Battery recycling-a key source of lower-impact lithium-faces potential marginalization as mining profits rise, and recycled content could help meet US lithium demand. The deal underscores tensions between expedited permitting and environmental safeguards, with critics warning that market-driven incentives may hinder growth in the nascent recycling industry. If lithium prices fall or policy support wanes, the economics of battery recycling could weaken, complicating efforts to reduce mineral mining and increase circular economy solutions.

Nvidia's AI-chip leadership faces renewed competition from Google and Amazon, but edge endures

December 5, 2025, 3:00 PM EST. Nvidia (NVDA) remains the global AI-chip leader, but reports that Google could sell its own AI chips to Meta raise questions about a growing rival ecosystem. The Information reported a potential Google-Meta deal worth billions, sending Nvidia's stock down about 2.5% after the news. Nvidia contends its chips are a generation ahead. Separately, Amazon announced public availability of its Trainium3, touting up to 50% training-cost savings versus alternatives. While Google's TPUs and Amazon's Trainium3 illustrate viable options, they are ASICs, tailored for specific tasks, not a one-size-fits-all replacement for Nvidia's broad, transferable architecture. Nvidia's products sit across multiple clouds, with CUDA and NVLink powering a wide range of uses-from AI training to robotics, gaming, and self-driving tech. The market may diversify, but Nvidia's lead isn't wiped out yet.

Exclusive | Anthropic hires ex-Schumer and Adams staffer amid policy push

December 5, 2025, 2:58 PM EST. Anthropic has tapped Maxwell Young, a longtime Democratic operative who worked for Sen. Chuck Schumer and New York City Mayor Eric Adams, to head policy communications. The hire signals an effort to mend relations with the federal government while steering a bipartisan AI policy agenda. Anthropic says it has recruited from across the political spectrum to support its global growth and to push commonsense, bipartisan AI policies such as child safety protections, export controls, and safeguarding national security. CEO Dario Amodei has lately hosted meetings with Trump administration officials and lawmakers to discuss AI strategy, underscoring a more proactive approach to policy. Critics view the move as risky given ongoing debates about the company's stance, but Anthropic frames it as pragmatic outreach to shape responsible AI regulation.

OpenAI's Altman Eyes Stoke Space for Space-Based Data Centers, Challenging SpaceX

December 5, 2025, 2:52 PM EST. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman reportedly explored funding a stake in Stoke Space, the Seattle-area rocket startup, to pursue space-based data centers as a new AI infrastructure frontier. The Wall Street Journal says the talks aimed at a partnership or a controlling stake began this summer and intensified in the fall, but are now no longer active. If it had advanced, the move would have positioned Altman against SpaceX founder Elon Musk, who has floated scaling Starlink satellites for data-center use. Other tech leaders, including Jeff Bezos and Sundar Pichai, have shown similar interest in orbital processing via projects like Suncatcher. The discussion underscores the surging demand for AI data processing and storage, even as OpenAI pivots to upgrading ChatGPT amid intensifying competition.

Gemini 3 Pro: Frontier of Vision AI for Document Understanding

December 5, 2025, 2:50 PM EST. Gemini 3 Pro represents a major leap in vision AI for document understanding. It excels across the full processing pipeline-from highly accurate OCR to advanced visual reasoning-handling messy, unstructured real-world documents with interleaved images, sheets, and complex layouts. A core capability is derendering, reversing a visual document back into structured code (HTML, LaTeX, Markdown) to recreate the source. The model demonstrates robust perception across modalities, transforming an 18th-century merchant log into a complex table or turning a raw annotated image into precise LaTeX. This positions Gemini 3 Pro at the forefront of intelligent document processing and multimodal interpretation.

D-Wave Quantum: Top Quantum-Computing Stock With Massive Upside But High Risk

December 5, 2025, 2:48 PM EST. Quantum computing could be one of the next decade's most revolutionary tech trends. This piece argues D-Wave Quantum (ticker QBTS) could emerge as a top pure-play in the space, but warns the stock carries high risk. In Q3, D-Wave reported $3.7 million in revenue against a $140 million loss, underscoring the risk-reward of early-stage tech. With a market cap near $8.8 billion and a valuation around 309x projected sales, profitability remains years away. Competitors like Alphabet, Microsoft, and Nvidia could outpace it if they advance faster. The stock offers explosive upside for investors with high risk tolerance, but success hinges on breakthroughs in quantum computing tech.

Venmo outage prompts safety questions: is it safe to link banks and trust the service?

December 5, 2025, 2:44 PM EST. Venmo says a widespread outage on Wednesday evening left users unable to send or receive money, with services restored by night. Venmo is a legitimate financial app with standard protections-encryption, monitoring, and optional multifactor authentication-but experts warn that risks come from scams and account takeovers. The incident echoes past outages and reminds users that money moves through the banking system. Key points: Venmo is not a bank and not FDIC-insured; linking a bank account is how most transfers work, and the actual bank remains with you. Protect yourself by enabling multifactor authentication, watching for suspicious activity, avoiding transfers to unknown contacts, and knowing you can revoke bank links in-app. During outages, verify transactions through official Venmo channels.

AI deepfakes of doctors spread health misinformation on social media

December 5, 2025, 2:42 PM EST. Full Fact's investigation shows hundreds of AI-generated deepfake videos featuring impersonated doctors directing viewers to Wellness Nest supplements. Using real footage with manipulated audio, the clips target women going through menopause to push products claimed as natural remedies. The videos appeared on TikTok and other social media platforms before being removed, raising alarms about how AI-generated content is hosted and how quickly health misinformation can spread. Experts warn that convincing doctor impersonations can distort medical views and fuel unproven remedies. The case of Prof David Taylor-Robinson-whose likeness was used without consent-highlights risks to professionals' reputations. Calls are mounting for tougher platform policies and swifter takedowns of misleading health content.

Quantum computing and blockchains: align urgency with real threats in post-quantum cryptography

December 5, 2025, 2:40 PM EST. Timelines for a cryptographically relevant quantum computer (CRQC) are overstated, yet calls for immediate post-quantum cryptography migration persist. The piece shows that different primitives pose different threats: post-quantum encryption is vulnerable to harvest-now-decrypt-later (HNDL) and demands rapid deployment for long-term confidentiality, despite costs and risks. Post-quantum signatures incur fewer HNDL risks and require deliberate migration due to larger sizes, performance penalties, and bugs. Misplaced urgency skews cost-benefit analyses and can overlook other risks, like software bugs. For blockchains, the risk calculus must reflect actual threats and migration costs. In reality, a CRQC in the 2020s is unlikely: current architectures lack the hundreds of thousands to millions of physical qubits, adequate gate fidelities, connectivity, and depth to run Shor's algorithm on RSA-2048 or secp256k1.

Apple's Next CEO Could Be a Former Employee, Report Suggests

December 5, 2025, 2:38 PM EST. New reporting from The Information suggests Apple is weighing an outsider candidate alongside internal option John Ternus for the next CEO, potentially spotlighting Tony Fadell-the former hardware executive and iPod co-creator who reportedly told associates he'd consider taking the helm. Some former Apple leaders view him as a brash, polarizing figure who could shake up the company, while others within Apple doubt he'd fit. Meanwhile, Tim Cook's future remains debated: The Information notes changes in his personal life and rising questions from analysts that Apple hasn't moved fast enough on AI leadership. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman still says Cook isn't stepping down soon, even as executives depart through 2025-26.

Samsung struggles to dent Apple's iPad as Q3 2025 tablet market stabilizes

December 5, 2025, 2:28 PM EST. Apple captured about 34% of the global tablet market in Q3 2025, with shipments up 4% year over year. Samsung stayed in 2nd place but saw flat shipments and a 1% year-over-year decline in market share. Five rivals including Lenovo, Huawei, Amazon, and Xiaomi posted higher shipments, yet they collectively shifted some brands out, as the overall segment dropped about 7% for others. Counterpoint Research notes Samsung's growth stalled despite last year's premium lineup revamp. The Galaxy Z TriFold-Samsung's hybrid phone/tablet with on-device DeX-could alter the dynamic, but early availability is limited and it's unclear whether sales will count as tablet shipments. A wider global rollout of TriFold might be needed to meaningfully challenge Apple.

Pixel phones now work as USB webcams for Nintendo Switch 2 GameChat

December 5, 2025, 2:24 PM EST. Pixel phones can now function as USB webcams for the Nintendo Switch 2's GameChat feature, ending the need for a separate camera on the go. After early tests showed compatibility issues, users report that Pixel-to-Switch 2 connections now work reliably. The Pixel's USB webcam capability stems from Android 14's native UVC support, which Google has configured for Pixel devices, letting you use a USB cable with no third-party app. Several users-Nadir92, Badmax, Petro-have confirmed the pairing, and a photo from Badmax demonstrates it working. It's unclear whether a Switch 2 firmware update or a Pixel update triggered the fix, but the result is simple: prop up your Pixel and join GameChat without extra hardware.

Battery Testing: A Key to Affordable, Reliable EVs with Ametek's Mi-BEAM and i-BEAM

December 5, 2025, 2:18 PM EST. Effective battery testing is essential to turn lab concepts into mass-produced EVs. The industry hinges on tests that simulate real-world conditions, while keeping costs and risk under control. Ametek Programmable Power Inc. showcased its Mi-BEAM and i-BEAM systems, designed to emulate power demands, stretch to 1,000-1,500 V, and scale through modular, bidirectional blocks. The key benefits include rapid validation of batteries, inverters and powertrains, and potential energy savings by returning power to the grid. Built-in safety and control features-isolations, over-voltage/over-temperature protection, current limits and islanding detection-enable safer, faster development. As the industry pushes toward a "Model T moment" for batteries, modular, regenerative test rigs look poised to help meet cost and reliability targets.

Where Is Samsung's Ballie? The six-year wait for a circular home robot

December 5, 2025, 2:16 PM EST. Samsung first revealed Ballie at CES 2020 as a tiny circular robot that acts like a roaming, floor-projected assistant. After a refined showing at CES 2024, Samsung claimed it would go on sale in 2025 and later targeted a summer launch in Korea and the US. Nearly six years later, Ballie remains elusive, becoming a cautionary tale alongside the Galaxy Home's bumpy history. The article notes Ballie's utility in controlled demos didn't impress, and analysts may doubt a mass-market path for a cute robotic companion. With CES around the corner again, Samsung may try to rekindle hype, but the market's readiness for a self-driving home assistant is still uncertain.

Justin Bieber Slams Apple Over Frustrating iPhone Dictation Button

December 5, 2025, 2:14 PM EST. Justin Bieber vented about the iPhone's dictation button, sharing a screenshot of the tiny microphone and accusing the feature of interrupting his music. In a lengthy post, he warned that pressing the dictation button can trigger a beep and pause playback, and he criticized the send/dictation button having multiple functions in the same spot. Fans highlighted the annoyance and memes followed as many echoed similar issues with the iOS dictation tool. Bieber even referenced past posts calling for an update to remove or simplify the dictation button so users can text without interrupting music. The episode underscores ongoing debates about smartphone UX and user frustration with built-in features.

Pixel phones unlock Switch 2 webcam support for GameChat

December 5, 2025, 2:10 PM EST. New tests show you can turn a Pixel smartphone into a Switch 2 webcam without extra hardware. Previously, Switch 2 webcam compatibility was hit or miss, and many players relied on USB-C adapters and HDMI capture cables. Now, a Pixel 9 Pro connected directly to the Switch 2's USB-C port and set to Webcam mode reportedly works with GameChat, letting you livestream your face during multiplayer matches. This upgrade could spare travelers from carrying a separate webcam, as evidenced on games like Mario Kart World where GameChat overlays player video. It's unclear whether the change comes from Google's Android 16 update or a Nintendo tweak, but the result is a welcome convenience for Pixel users and Switch 2 players alike.

SpaceX considers secondary share sale valuing company at $800B, WSJ reports

December 5, 2025, 2:08 PM EST. SpaceX is weighing a secondary share sale that could value the company at $800 billion, according to the Wall Street Journal. The report, cited by Reuters, signals continued liquidity options for private shareholders while SpaceX remains privately held. If pursued, the offering would let existing investors unlock some gains without changing the private status of the rocket maker. There were no formal comments from the company at publication.

SteamOS vs. Windows on Dedicated GPUs: Windows Still Leads, with SteamOS Gaining Ground on Integrated GPUs

December 5, 2025, 1:58 PM EST. In our tests, Windows generally edges out SteamOS on dedicated GPUs, with gaps often in the 15-30% range for titles like Borderlands 3, Forza Horizon 5, and Cyberpunk 2077 when ray tracing is enabled. Some games stay close or even tie, such as Cyberpunk without RT, Returnal, and Assassin's Creed Valhalla. On integrated GPUs (Radeon 780M and RX 8060S), SteamOS can outperform or nearly match Windows, sometimes delivering higher average frame rates in Forza and Cyberpunk with RT. The result underscores platform-specific optimizations: Windows holds the edge on discrete GPUs, while SteamOS shows stronger relative performance on integrated GPUs, reflecting different trade-offs in driver and runtime support.

MDA Space Wins CA$44.7M CSA Contract for RADARSAT Constellation Mission Replenishment

December 5, 2025, 1:54 PM EST. MDA Space has won a new contract with the Canadian Space Agency worth CA$44.7 million to procure long lead parts for the RADARSAT Constellation Mission replenishment satellite. Public Services and Procurement Canada announced the award on Dec. 4. The government intends to contract MDA Space to build, test, and launch the additional RCM satellite, with the full mission contract expected in 2026, subject to approvals. In addition, MDA Space received CA$747,000 for a concept study on a modern, resilient radar satellite system to meet rising demand for space-based Earth Observation data. CEO Mike Greenley highlighted leveraging the Chorus satellite design to deliver a cost-effective, timely solution and continued collaboration with the CSA to ensure continuity of service.

Alan Dye's Departure to Meta Highlights Tim Cook's Blind Spot on Design and Privacy

December 5, 2025, 1:42 PM EST. An analysis of Alan Dye's move from Apple to Meta argues that Tim Cook's leadership harbors a blind spot about Dye's design direction. The piece recalls Cook's public critique of Facebook/Meta and his privacy stance, framing Dye's departure as emblematic of a tension between Apple's design ethos and rival cultures. It portrays Dye as a high-profile Apple designer whose pivot to a company seen as antithetical to Apple's ideals signals a deeper misalignment in values and leadership. The article also contrasts the expected stability of Apple's senior team with the reality of cross-company mobility among tech giants like Meta and Google, suggesting Apple may be underestimating the cost of talent moves.

Pixel Watch gains Always-On Media Controls, Timer, and Stopwatch with Wear OS 6

December 5, 2025, 1:36 PM EST. Google's Wear OS 6 is rolling out improved always-on behavior (AOD) across Pixel Watch apps like the Timer and Stopwatch. The update lets you keep using the app when the screen times out or you lower your wrist, removing the circular countdown ring. Buttons become thin outlines and seconds become dashes. On the Stopwatch, the ring and increment markers vanish and milliseconds are dropped. Rolling out with Google Clock 6.11 (not yet widely available) also adds always-on display media controls for some users, auto-switching all buttons to the outline style on supported devices; availability can vary between Pixel Watch models. These changes join existing AOD experiences in Keep and Maps.

Pixel 10 Pro AOD flicker after December Android update

December 5, 2025, 1:32 PM EST. Pixel 10 Pro users report an always-on display bug after the December update, with the AOD briefly flickering on and off during refreshes. Some phones also show the screen briefly going black when unlocked or when a notification arrives. Google has been contacted for comment, but no official fix has been announced yet. The December patch stresses bug fixes for Pixel 6 and newer, but appears to introduce this AOD instability for some Pixel 10 users. It's unclear how widespread the issue is, though similar flicker patterns have appeared in a prior Android 16 QPR1 beta. If you're affected, share your experience and any workarounds in the comments.

AI Data Center Boom Could Make Smartphones Pricier Next Year

December 5, 2025, 1:28 PM EST. Memory shortages driven by a wave of AI demand are pushing up prices for devices from phones to tablets and smartwatches. As memory makers reallocate capacity to data centers, consumer memory resources shrink, squeezing margins and potentially lifting production costs. Market watchers warn that smartphone memory prices could surge in late 2025 and early 2026, with IDC and Counterpoint noting a 30% jump in Q4 2025 and a further rise next year. Micron and Samsung have shifted focus toward data centers, while Micron exits the consumer memory business amid AI-driven growth. Analysts say cheaper Android phones may bear the brunt, as manufacturers pass higher costs to consumers. In the broader picture, AI infrastructure spending is forecast to rise for years, shaping device pricing globally.

Samsung Galaxy S26 series renders leak via One UI 8.5, hinting design and charging upgrades

December 5, 2025, 1:26 PM EST. New renders of the Galaxy S26 family appear inside Samsung's One UI 8.5 software, showing the S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra. Codenames M1/M2 point to the base and Plus models, while M3 is linked to the Ultra. The images align with prior OnLeaks renders, showcasing a vertically stacked triple camera island on the back for the S26 and S26 Plus, and a similar setup with extra sensors on the Ultra. The leak also hints at faster charging, with mentions of Super Fast Wireless Charging and Super Fast Charging 3.0 in One UI 8.5. Samsung is expected to launch the trio early next year. Note: APK teardowns predict future features but may not reach a public release.

These Were the 10 Biggest EV Battery Developments in 2025

December 5, 2025, 1:20 PM EST. The year reshaped the global battery landscape as the U.S. pressed for tech leadership amid big subsidies and policy shifts. The Inflation Reduction Act spurred factory plans and supply-chain bets, even as a policy whiplash followed a change in administration. 2025 saw a surge of breakthroughs-from solid-state ambitions to new chemistries-balanced by steady gains in lithium-ion performance. LFP returned to the U.S. market, and LMR chemistry from OEMs like GM and Ford eyed longer ranges and lower costs. EV prototypes tested new pack architectures, while lithium-ion improvements extended range and affordability. Across defense, grid storage, and consumer tech, the year produced a torrent of milestones that underscore where electrification and battery innovation are heading next.

Steam Frame won't ship with stereoscopic 3D at launch; Valve says it's on the list

December 5, 2025, 1:18 PM EST. Valve confirms the Steam Frame VR headset, due spring 2026, will not include stereoscopic 3D rendering at launch. The omission means 2D games and 3D effects won't be rendered in depth on day one, unlike Apple Vision Pro or Galaxy XR. Valve says the feature is on our list and could arrive later, potentially when streaming from a PC via the 6GHz wireless adapter or on the headset. A separate auto-conversion of 2D games to 3D isn't planned for now. The company is exploring a Lepton compatibility layer to run Android apps on SteamOS, which might help support more stereoscopic content in the future. Expect more updates as Valve broadens multi-platform PC gaming.

Look-and-fly vs Point-and-fly: DJI Avata 2 vs Antigravity A1 FPV Drones

December 5, 2025, 1:14 PM EST. DJI and Insta360's Antigravity are the two key players in consumer FPV. Between DJI's Avata 2 and Antigravity's A1, both aim to make FPV approachable for entry-level pilots. DJI pioneered the Look-and-fly system with its Motion Controller and eye-tracking goggles; simply look where you want to go and pull the trigger to fly in that direction. This makes FPV accessible in minutes. Antigravity's A1 centers on 360-degree video through dual cameras (one above, one below), letting you look around the environment while your flight is controlled via goggles. If you want ultra-simple, look-based motion, choose DJI; if you prefer immersive subject-centric framing with 360 views, the A1 offers a new flight experience.

NanoPhone: A credit-card-sized 4G smartphone at an unreal price under $85

December 5, 2025, 1:08 PM EST. Meet the NanoPhone, a credit-card-sized 4G smartphone that proves small can be mighty. At just $84.97 (down from $199.99), this ultra-compact device handles calls, streaming, and web browsing over Wi-Fi or 4G, with front and rear cameras for video calls or social sharing. It runs on GSM and CDMA networks and works with most carriers, making it a perfect backup phone or travel companion. Includes a screen protector, case, and charging cable; note that a SIM card and data plan are buyer-provided. Optional dual SIM support adds flexibility. In short, the NanoPhone delivers maximum performance in a miniature package for a microscopic price.

How Switching to a Free DNS Boosted My Laptop's Internet Speed

December 5, 2025, 1:04 PM EST. It's not about bandwidth; it's about DNS latency. Switching to a faster public DNS (like Google DNS) cut DNS lookup times in half, reducing total page load time on a fast connection. Each page loads dozens of assets, so saving tens of milliseconds per request dramatically improves responsiveness. DNS changes don't increase your bandwidth or make the internet faster, but they lower latency and improve perceived speed by speeding up name resolution. The article explains why DNS choice matters and how a simple DNS switch can feel like a real speed boost.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Deals Slashed: Big Discounts Ahead of Fold 7

December 5, 2025, 12:58 PM EST. Even with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 out, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 remains a premium, affordable pick. It sports a 7.6-inch main display, a 6.3-inch cover screen, and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, plus a 4,400 mAh battery with solid endurance. Storage options run 256GB to 1TB with 12GB RAM, and One UI 6 keeps things modern. Our roundup tracks big discounts across retailers, including a $200 direct discount at Best Buy that drops the price to $1,700 for the 256GB model. Carriers and bundles-like trade-ins, accessories, and financing-add savings, though stock can be spotty. For foldable enthusiasts hunting value, the Fold 6 remains a strong option when the Fold 7 is still on the horizon.

Windows 11 Outperforms SteamOS on 8GB VRAM, Ars Technica Finds

December 5, 2025, 12:56 PM EST. In a hardware performance test highlighted by Ars Technica, Windows 11 shows significantly better performance than SteamOS when configured with 8GB VRAM. The findings suggest Valve's OS may lag behind Windows in VRAM-constrained scenarios, potentially impacting gaming experiences on systems using 8GB VRAM of video memory. The report underscores ongoing driver and optimization gaps between SteamOS and Windows in high-memory configurations, and could influence developers and PC builders weighing OS choice for VRAM-bound workloads.

Nvidia reintroduces 32-bit PhysX on RTX 50-series with Game Ready 591.44 for select games

December 5, 2025, 12:54 PM EST. Nvidia has quietly reversed course, restoring 32-bit CUDA/PhysX support on GeForce RTX 50-series with the new Game Ready Driver 591.44. Not all titles are affected, only a curated list including Alice: Madness Returns, Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag, Batman: Arkham City/Arkham Origins, Borderlands 2, Mafia II, Metro 2033 and Metro: Last Light, Mirror's Edge, with Batman: Arkham Asylum slated to join in early 2026. For other games, users can still run PhysX on CPU or via a dual-GPU workaround. In practice the improvement is noticeable mainly in physics-heavy scenes; some performance is sacrificed when PhysX runs on the main GPU. Nvidia's move responds to community feedback after February's CUDA change. Stay tuned for more updates.

AI drives radiology at RSNA: hundreds of vendors, imaging breakthroughs, and hardware giants

December 5, 2025, 12:52 PM EST. At RSNA's annual meeting in Chicago, artificial intelligence is everywhere in radiology. The conference floor overflowed with AI showcases, with more than 100 companies filling a sprawling exhibit to demonstrate imaging advances-from X-rays to MRIs and CTs. Attendees wandered past neon-lit booths and even got selfies with a giant 3D heart model pulsing with AI, a reminder that AI-powered imaging is becoming central to the field. Traditional hardware giants – GE, Philips, and Siemens – are embedding AI into scanners and ultrasound probes, signaling a convergence of hardware and software in healthcare. The event underscores a growing healthcare data economy and questions around workflow, validation, and access as radiology aims to keep up with rapid innovation.

Tony Fadell Could Be Apple's Next CEO: Inside the Supposed Succession

December 5, 2025, 12:50 PM EST. A new report outlines potential paths for when Tim Cook steps down, including a possible return by Tony Fadell, the co-creator of the iPod and Nest founder. The piece notes that some former Apple executives see Fadell as a bold, brash leader who could shake up the C-suite, though insiders acknowledge he's polarizing and not a sure bet. Other candidates, like John Ternus, are floated but concerns about readiness linger. The Information, by reporters Aaron Tilley and Wayne Ma, paints a speculative picture rather than a solid shortlist. The analysis from 9to5Mac echoes that much of the interest remains rumor, with no Apple insiders confirming a strong case for Fadell.

Tesla Charging Costs vs Gas for Toyota Sienna: Monthly Savings by State

December 5, 2025, 12:48 PM EST. Comparing a Tesla Model Y Long Range to a Toyota Sienna shows clear cost differences driven by electricity versus gas. With 1,100 miles/month, the Model Y uses about 250 kWh, costing roughly $42 at the national average of $0.17/kWh, though state rates range from about $0.12/kWh in Louisiana to $0.42/kWh in Hawaii. The Sienna (36 mpg) needs ~30.5 gallons, costing about $98 at $3.20/gal (higher in California, lower in Mississippi). Using national averages, EV drivers save about $56/month ($672/year) in fuel, about $3,360 over five years. Savings rise in high-gas/low-electricity states and with home solar. Beyond fuel, the Model Y starts higher (about $47,740) than the Sienna ($37,735) but can qualify for up to a $7,500 federal tax credit and lower maintenance; Consumer Reports notes EV maintenance savings ~$4,600 over a lifetime. Home charging off-peak is common.

Cloud coopetition reshapes CIO strategy with cross-cloud interconnects

December 5, 2025, 12:44 PM EST. The era of cloud coopetition signals a shift from pure rivalry to collaboration among hyperscalers. AWS and Google Cloud have launched a cross-cloud interconnect, with Microsoft Azure expected to join by 2026, enabling fluid data movement across ecosystems. For CIOs, this is more than convenience; it's a new architectural paradigm that can boost AI enablement and disaster recovery while also adding governance and security complexities. Analysts say customer demand and market pressure are driving vendors toward interoperability rather than winner-takes-all strategies. Multi-cloud adoption is already widespread, with high egress costs fading as enterprises prioritize seamless integration. Leaders must address operational risks, define interoperability standards, and establish clear ownership for data, security, and cost across vendors.

Apple Warns 84 Countries of New Cyber Threat Activity

December 5, 2025, 12:42 PM EST. Apple has issued threat alerts to consumers in 84 countries, signaling ongoing state-linked hacking activity targeting devices. The notifications, received around December 2, show Apple's growing threat-detection footprint and its willingness to warn users when targeted. Apple says it has sent danger alerts in over 150 countries to date. The alerts imply high-profile individuals and campaigners remain at risk from government-sponsored spyware, underscoring the persistent reach of digital espionage. The move highlights rising reliance on Apple's security technologies as regulators scrutinize digital spying and cross-border cyber activity. Investors will watch how Apple balances security obligations with regulatory demands ahead of forthcoming quarterly results, which may discuss security-related product improvements and the evolving threat landscape.

Netflix to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery in $72B deal as Apple leadership shakeup unfolds

December 5, 2025, 12:40 PM EST. Morning brief: Netflix has struck a $72B deal to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, merging a streaming powerhouse with a storied studio and ending a bid war with rivals. The move signals a strategic shift for Netflix as it expands legacy content and scale. Meanwhile, Apple is seeing leadership exits, including its general counsel, raising questions about CEO succession and the company's AI strategy. Investors await the PCE data as the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, which could influence near-term rate expectations. Market futures show mixed moves with modest volatility ahead of the data release and the Fed decision. More on this developing story in the tech/media landscape.

CoreWeave: Meeks urges buy on the AI neocloud dip amid bubble skepticism

December 5, 2025, 12:38 PM EST. Veteran tech analyst Paul Meeks of Freedom Capital issued a buy rating and a $100 target on CoreWeave, arguing the AI neocloud leader deserves investor consideration despite the broader AI bubble narrative. He sees CRWV climbing to about $100 (+18%) over the next two years and retesting its ~$153 peak as investors regain confidence in the company's backlog and secure payments from hyperscalers. Nvidia remains a key backstop, with a stake and ongoing support for capital expenditure. CoreWeave's 37% drop after cutting guidance and a data-center delay is acknowledged, but Meeks contends its neocloud leadership should prevail, while Nebius has surged ~250% this year on strong AI demand.

Another Wear OS Brand Appears to Quit Amid Wearable Market Shakeout

December 5, 2025, 12:36 PM EST. Another Wear OS smartwatches maker appears to have given up, signaling a continued shakeout in the wearables market. The retreat underscores how challenging it remains for smaller brands to sustain a standalone Wear OS lineup amid fierce competition, limited margins, and platform fragmentation. As larger players push their own ecosystems, many developers and consumers face a shrinking selection of Wear OS devices. The trend could slow innovation for the platform, even as Google and partners push updates and partnerships to keep the ecosystem viable. For now, expect more exits from niche brands before the market consolidates further.

NVIDIA CUDA Tile Introduces High-Level Tile-Based Programming with CUDA Tile IR

December 5, 2025, 12:34 PM EST. NVIDIA debuts CUDA Tile alongside CUDA 13.1, introducing a virtual instruction set-CUDA Tile IR-that enables tile-based parallel programming. The move abstracts hardware details like tensor cores, allowing developers to write higher-level code while the compiler and runtime map work to GPUs across generations. CUDA Tile complements existing libraries such as CUDA-X and CUTLASS and emphasizes tile-based data partitioning over traditional SIMT element-by-element execution. By decoupling from tensor-core-specific programming, CUDA Tile aims to simplify performance portability across architectures with Tensor Memory Accelerators. The result is a Python-like feel for data operations-specifying tiles and computations-while preserving performance across diverse hardware.

Battlefield 6 Gets GeForce Game Ready Driver with DLSS 4 and 3.8x FPS Boost

December 5, 2025, 12:32 PM EST. Battlefield 6 delivers intense infantry and aerial combat, powered by the GeForce Game Ready Driver. The update adds DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation, DLSS Frame Generation, DLSS Super Resolution, DLAA, and NVIDIA Reflex for lower latency. At 4K with Ultra settings, DLSS 4 with MFG and DLSS Super Resolution can boost frame rates by about 3.8x, delivering up to 460 fps on desktops and 310 fps on RTX 50 Series laptops. This driver aims to give GeForce RTX gamers a smoother, more responsive battlefield experience.

Pennsylvania broadband grants could fund Amazon and SpaceX satellite internet rollout

December 5, 2025, 12:30 PM EST. Pennsylvania plans roughly $20 million in broadband grants to connect more than 20,000 locations via satellite internet after a Trump administration overhaul. Under the proposal, Amazon's low-earth orbit satellite service would cover about 18,000 locations, while SpaceX would serve roughly 4,800. The push, part of a nationwide shift to reduce costs, prioritizes rapid deployment over fiber investments. Critics warn satellites may not deliver reliable or scalable speeds and question whether this is a sound long-term investment. Grants would target reserving satellite capacity rather than funding infrastructure, and customers would receive required equipment at no charge. SpaceX is already widely available in Pennsylvania; Amazon's service isn't yet public. Supporters say the plan could speed access in rural areas, while opponents argue for fiber-focused solutions to meet future needs.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold: When You Can Buy the 3-Screen Foldable

December 5, 2025, 12:28 PM EST. Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Z TriFold, a foldable with three displays that opens twice to reveal a 10-inch main screen. Unlike the Z Fold, the TriFold stretches to a triple-wide canvas, enabling up to three simultaneous windows and multitasking layouts. It also doubles as a Samsung DeX workstation, saving up to four workspaces and supporting up to 20 apps across four preset layouts. You can connect an external monitor and pair a mouse and keyboard for a PC-like experience. The device uses an updated Armor FlexHinge with dual-sized hinges to minimize gaps and protect the folding mechanism. Specs include a 10-inch main screen (2160×1584), 6.5-inch cover screen (2520×1080), Snapdragon 8 Elite, and triple rear cameras.

GeForce NOW Adds 30 Cloud Games, Half-Price Holiday Sale and Auto Sign-In

December 5, 2025, 12:26 PM EST. GeForce NOW is ushering in the holidays with 30 new games streaming in the cloud, including Hogwarts Legacy and the LEGO Harry Potter Collection. The Half-Price Holiday sale offers premium memberships at 50% off for the first month, unlocking shorter queues, longer sessions, and access to 2,000+ Install-to-Play titles powered by RTX in the cloud. New cross-store play lets you stream select Activision titles via Ubisoft+ Premium in the cloud for GeForce RTX power, including Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II and III, Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy, and Spyro Reignited Trilogy. Battle.net single sign-on is live for instant access to Overwatch 2, Diablo IV, and more across devices. The Community Video Contest invites epic clips with chances to win two Ultimate day passes and a one-year membership.

NVIDIA Jetson Holiday Discounts Bring High-Performance Edge AI to Developers

December 5, 2025, 12:24 PM EST. During the holidays, NVIDIA is offering discounts on its Jetson family for edge AI and robotics. The Jetson AGX Thor Developer Kit is 20% off, the Jetson AGX Orin Developer Kit is 50% off, and the Jetson Orin Nano Super Developer Kit remains the most affordable way to explore generative AI at the edge. These kits deliver server-class compute and up to 275 TOPS of AI performance (Orin), with the Nano variant offering desktop-class AI in a palm-sized form factor. The lineup targets humanoid robots, autonomous machines, and mobile AI applications with power envelopes as low as 25W. Real-world deployments include underwater AI sensing with Jetson Orin and OptoScale, highlighting edge inference on constrained hardware.

NVIDIA Awards Up to $60,000 Graduate Fellowships to 10 PhD Students for 2026-2027

December 5, 2025, 12:22 PM EST. NVIDIA has announced up to $60,000 in annual fellowships for 10 PhD students as part of its Graduate Fellowship Program, continuing a 25-year commitment to supporting research relevant to NVIDIA technologies. Each recipient will participate in a summer internship before the fellowship year, with projects spanning accelerated computing, autonomous systems, computer architecture, graphics, deep learning, programming systems, robotics and security. Recipients for 2026-2027 hail from USC, UCSD, MIT, UC Berkeley, Stanford, UW, Harvard and Georgia Tech, tackling topics such as robust AI with diverse priors, neural materials and rendering, modular languages for accelerators, AI security, scalable generalist robots, human-agent collaboration, model collaboration, energy-efficient training, and 4D physical-world modeling. Applicants worldwide can apply, continuing NVIDIA's mission to push computing innovation.

NVIDIA CUDA 13.1 Unveils Tile-Based Programming with cuTile Python

December 5, 2025, 12:20 PM EST. CUDA 13.1 introduces tile-based programming, enabling higher-level kernels beyond the traditional SIMT model. With cuTile Python, developers can write tile kernels in Python, while the compiler and runtime partition work across threads. The tile model abstracts hardware details, letting you focus on algorithms and data as arrays of tiles. Tiles are subsets of arrays; kernels run in parallel across blocks; cuTile automates memory movement, asynchrony, and low-level optimization, while remaining portable across NVIDIA architectures and future hardware. This approach can simplify GPU programming, avoid explicit tensor-core tuning, and target AI/ML workloads. cuTile is for general-purpose data-parallel kernels and aims to future-proof code by leveraging hardware features without rewriting in CUDA C++/Python.

Why was a Russian cosmonaut removed from SpaceX Crew-12? What we know

December 5, 2025, 12:18 PM EST. Roscosmos announced that Oleg Artemyev was replaced on SpaceX Crew-12, with Andrei Fedyayev stepping in. The agency offered no reason for Artemyev's removal, but reports suggest a possible U.S. national-security violation tied to photographing sensitive SpaceX documents during training. The Insider cites an allegation, echoed by Russian-spaceflight Telegram channels and coverage from Space.com and Gizmodo. Crew-12 is NASA and SpaceX's 11th human science expedition to the International Space Station (ISS), expected to launch from Florida in February 2026, with a four-person crew including Sophie Adenot and an as-yet-unnamed NASA astronaut. The mission sits under NASA's Commercial Crew program, which funds SpaceX to transport astronauts and cargo while NASA focuses on Artemis and future deep-space exploration.

Samsung's Z TriFold: Razor-thin triple-foldable with a 10-inch display and steep price

December 5, 2025, 12:16 PM EST. Samsung is pushing the foldable envelope with the Z TriFold, a razor-thin, three-section phone that unfolds into a 10-inch, 2160×1584, 120Hz internal display. It uses three distinct panels ranging from 3.9 mm to 4.2 mm thick and folds to a still-slim 12.9 mm profile. North American availability is unclear, but Samsung plans a Korea launch next week and a U.S. rollout in early 2026, with an estimated price around $2,440. On the camera front, Samsung sticks with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 setup, featuring a 200 MP main, a 10 MP tele, and a 12 MP ultra-wide, a choice many may see as a compromise for this form factor. The outer display mirrors the Z Fold 7's 6.5-inch, 21:9 panel, and there's no S Pen support noted.

New Google Workspace study reveals how young leaders use AI at work

December 5, 2025, 12:14 PM EST. Google Workspace's second survey with Harris Poll shows 22- to 39-year-olds are embracing AI at work. The findings highlight three themes: personalized responses and outputs tailored to tone and style; a hands-on approach that makes young leaders act as AI architects for their workflows; and growing confidence as AI becomes a tool for professional development. The research suggests AI helps these workers be more efficient and intentional, shaping how they collaborate, prototype processes, and learn on the job. The press release includes the full data and commentary from Google Workspace VP Yulie Kwon Kim.

Android 16 QPR2 Brings Circle to Search to External Displays

December 5, 2025, 12:12 PM EST. Android 16 QPR2 finally lets Circle to Search work on external displays, not just the phone's internal screen. Previously limited to the main display, you can trigger it on a monitor by long-pressing the Action Key (or Home button) with a mouse. The feature lets you search by drawing, tapping, or scribbling over content, with results appearing in a panel on the opposite side. On Pixel devices, it now supports both displays. Options like Create, Save, Select text, and Share stay visible below your selection. This marks a notable usability improvement for multi-display Android setups.

Cloudflare outage disrupts websites as tech and policy headlines unfold

December 5, 2025, 12:10 PM EST. A Cloudflare outage has left sites offline this morning, impacting LinkedIn, X, and Canva, with Downdetector affected as Cloudflare investigates Dashboard and APIs and reports a potential fix. CTO Dane Knecht says the outage is unacceptable and promises a detailed resiliency breakdown. The incident marks the second outage in under a month, underscoring risks of relying on a few cloud providers. In other tech news: Netflix to buy Warner Bros Discovery in $82.7B; Tesla launches a cheaper Model 3 in Europe; EU fines X €120M for digital-law breaches. Halifax shows UK buyers in a better position, while the FTSE 100 slips.

AI Hype Under Fire: Critics Say Most So-Called AI Is Marketing Vaporware

December 5, 2025, 12:06 PM EST. A growing pile-on across tech and consumer spaces questions the AI boom. Contributors-from IT pros to car buyers-say most so-called AI features are marketing vaporware, not true intelligence. They argue that simple algorithms, not genuine AI, power maintenance predictions, diagnostics, and even self-driving systems, and that labeling something as AI inflates expectations and sponsor interest. The critique suggests skepticism toward tech marketing slogans, urging engineers to separate clever algorithms from authentic artificial intelligence, and to demand measurable value over buzzwords. The debate widens beyond software to cars and enterprise tools, revealing a fatigue with hype while calling for clear, verifiable AI capabilities rather than overstated promises.

Apple AirPods 4 with ANC Hit New Low Price of $99, Plus Other Tech Deals

December 5, 2025, 12:04 PM EST. Apple's AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation (ANC) are at a new low of $99 at Amazon and Walmart. The earbuds offer improved sound, wireless charging, and a built-in speaker in the case, with IP54 dust/water resistance and the same H2 chip as prior models. While ANC is strong for open-ear buds, it won't eliminate all noise; transparency mode and Adaptive Audio help when you need to hear surroundings. The article notes subtle differences between with/without ANC, and highlights comfort and call quality. Other deals include a Lego PAC-MAN kit for $189.99, a Furbo Cat/Dog Camera at $129, and the NB681 Nimbleback mechanical keyboard on sale for $29.99. Read more for details and reviews.

How Intuit's Chief AI Officer supercharged its AI teams and why not every company should imitate

December 5, 2025, 12:02 PM EST. After becoming chief AI officer, Ashok Srivastava merged Intuit's AI unit with the Futures team to form Intuit Foresight, a few-hundred-strong group spanning New York, California, Texas, Israel, and India. The mission: stitch together AI research with practical applications to accelerate customer outcomes. A key win was the accounting AI agent, built on open-source LLMs with low latency, achieving 90% accuracy and saving customers about 12 hours per month. The effort extends to hundreds of colleagues across roles-from VPs to engineers-aiming to deploy AI across TurboTax, QuickBooks, and Credit Karma. In November, Intuit reported strong results fueled by AI products and a $100 million OpenAI contract bringing capabilities into ChatGPT. Looking ahead, generative AI remains a top priority for Intuit Foresight. Caveat: not every company has the scale or scope to follow this blueprint.

Mobvoi signals essential TicWatch updates amid fading Wear OS lineup

December 5, 2025, 11:52 AM EST. Mobvoi's TicWatch line helped popularize Wear OS with value-oriented hardware like the dual-layer display, but progress slowed as software updates lagged. Since the 2017 TicWatch 2, Mobvoi released many Wear OS watches, yet timely updates to Wear OS 3, 5, and 6 have been scarce. The last release, TicWatch Atlas, debuted over a year ago and faced similar update delays. Recently, TicWatch listings have vanished from Amazon and Mobvoi's site now minimizes TicWatch presence, hinting that the company has shifted away from Wear OS. In a statement to 9to5Google, Mobvoi said there's no new information to announce and that existing devices will receive essential support. The move narrows Wear OS's lineup, following Fossil, Tag Heuer, and others that have reduced or exited smartwatch efforts.

Meta inks commercial AI data deals with publishers to power real-time news in Meta AI

December 5, 2025, 11:46 AM EST. Meta has signed commercial AI data agreements with major publishers to feed Meta AI with real-time global, entertainment, and breaking news. When users ask about news, Meta AI will surface information and links from multiple sources, with direct article links to drive readers to publishers' sites and help partners reach new audiences. Partners include CNN, Fox News, Fox Sports, Le Monde Group, The Daily Caller, The Washington Examiner, USA Today, and the People Inc. portfolio, with more to come. This marks a shift from Meta's earlier stance on news hubs and compensation, aiming to improve timeliness and balance amid rising AI competition, including Llama 4.

The Realities of Launching an AI Startup: Lessons from Daydream's Fashion-Forward Venture

December 5, 2025, 11:44 AM EST. Launch of Daydream, a fashion-focused AI startup backed by VCs including Google Ventures with $50M shows how hard it is to translate the magic of AI into real user value. Julie Bornstein, with a storied fashion-tech résumé, aims to match customers with outfits via an AI assistant, but the journey reveals systemic challenges: signing up 265 partners and 2 million products is only the start; design questions like wedding role, season, formality complicate prompts; inconsistent model outputs and hallucinations break the flow; multiple models interpret queries differently. Industry studies note that most AI enterprise pilots deliver no measurable value, underscoring the need for persistence, user-centric product design, and perhaps hybrid human-AI workflows. Daydream's experience offers a cautionary but hopeful picture for the AI startup era.

Blue Origin to fly first wheelchair user to space on NS-37

December 5, 2025, 11:42 AM EST. Blue Origin announced that Michi Benthaus, an ESA aerospace engineer who uses a wheelchair, will fly on NS-37, making her the first wheelchair user to reach space. Benthaus joins five crewmates: Joey Hyde, a hedge-fund investor; Hans Koenigsmann, former SpaceX VP; Neal Milch, entrepreneur; Adonis Pouroulis, mining engineer; and Jason Stansell, space enthusiast. NS-37 is the 37th flight of Blue Origin's New Shepard suborbital system, delivering about 10-12 minutes above the Kármán Line. The mission is Blue Origin's seventh crewed flight of 2025, with 86 people launched to date. A launch date hasn't been announced, and pricing for the experience hasn't been disclosed. Benthaus's background includes parabolic-flight experience and analog astronaut training with ESA.

Discord launches Checkpoint 2025: a full-year activity recap and how to view your Wrapped-style summary

December 5, 2025, 11:40 AM EST. Discord has rolled out Checkpoint 2025, its first full-year activity recap, delivering a personalized, Wrapped-style summary of how you used the platform in 2025. The recap highlights your total messages, hours in voice channels, top-used emoji, most active server, and the friend you DM'd with most. After viewing, you'll receive one of ten Checkpoint Cards paired with an exclusive Avatar Decoration valid through January 15, 2026. To view: update the app. On mobile, profile picture > Checkpoint banner in the You tab > view your summary. On desktop, click the small flag icon top-right near your inbox. The rollout is gradual; if you don't see it yet, it may be due to low activity or a disabled "Use data to personalize my Discord experience."

Meta AI Expands Real-Time News with Diverse Partnerships and Linkouts

December 5, 2025, 11:38 AM EST. Meta AI is expanding to deliver real-time news and content from a broader set of sources. When you ask Meta AI news questions, you'll get information and links drawn from diverse outlets to surface timely, relevant content tailored to your interests. The feature emphasizes linking out to partners' sites for more details, while providing value to publishers and expanding reach. In this initial phase, partnerships include CNN, Fox News, Fox Sports, Le Monde Group, People Inc. brands, The Daily Caller, The Washington Examiner, USA TODAY and the USA TODAY Network, with more to come. The goal is a responsive, accurate, and balanced experience across viewpoints and content types.

Samsung US Cyber Week Deals Extend into December: Save on Galaxy S25 Ultra, Z Fold7, XR Headset, Watches, Buds, and Laptops

December 5, 2025, 11:36 AM EST. Samsung US is extending Cyber Week deals into December, offering generous trade-in credits and straight discounts across its lineup. Highlights include up to $700 trade-in for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, up to $1,000 enhanced trade-in for the Galaxy Z Fold7, and the Galaxy XR headset with an Explorer Pack delivering up to $1,140 off plus an extra 10% discount. The Galaxy Watch Ultra and Watch8 Classic each offer $100 off or up to $250 in enhanced trade-in credits. Galaxy Buds3 Pro are $40 off. The Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is $200 off or up to $800 with trade-in. For Windows fans, the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 and Book5 Pro provide OLED, 16" screen options, and strong CPU/NPU specs. Deals vary by color/storage and may ship after Christmas.

AMD's Lisa Su: AI isn't a bubble – emphatic stance in Wired interview

December 5, 2025, 11:34 AM EST. AMD CEO Lisa Su tells Wired that AI is not a bubble, emphatic stance as investment surges. She argues the momentum reflects real potential rather than pure speculation. The piece points to Nvidia's near-$5 trillion valuation and AMD's OpenAI deal alongside other industry voices (IBM, Sam Altman, JP Morgan, Google, Pat Gelsinger, Michael Burry) in the bubble debate. It notes that while many firms will face disruption, ongoing innovation and demand could sustain growth. The article also traces how stock booms mirror AI's finance-driven momentum for Nvidia and AMD.

Apple braces for its biggest leadership shakeup since Steve Jobs' death

December 5, 2025, 11:32 AM EST. Apple is embarking on its most significant leadership shakeup in years, with high-level departures across AI, design, legal, and sustainability. Notable retirements include Lisa Jackson (Environment/Policy) and Kate Adams (General Counsel), both slated to leave by 2026 and next month respectively. Earlier exits include AI chief John Giannandrea and design lead Alan Dye, who left for Meta. The churn continues with COO Jeff Williams and CFO Luca Maestri stepping back, and even design director Billy Sorrentino departing. The upheaval feeds broader succession planning as Apple weighs a possible move to appoint internal candidate John Ternus to succeed Tim Cook around 2026. Ternus' hardware focus signals a shift from past operational leadership toward core product development amid scrutiny over new categories like Vision Pro.

Hidden Apple TV 4K Tricks: TVOS 26 Features You're Missing

December 5, 2025, 11:26 AM EST. Discover the hidden tricks in TVOS 26 for the Apple TV 4K. Beyond just watching, this update brings karaoke that turns iPhones into microphones and a buttery-smooth FaceTime experience on the big screen. The piece also highlights a kid-safe mode coming in TVOS 26.2 beta and other perks teased for later this month. I walk through a recent episode of One More Thing showing these features in action with family, plus quick TVOS 26 settings to improve your overall experience. If you're curious about what's next, these updates prove the Apple TV 4K still has surprises for 2025.

Meta Hires Apple Design Leaders to Redefine UI and Drive AI Hardware Strategy

December 5, 2025, 11:22 AM EST. Meta has recruited two prominent Apple designers-Alan Dye and Billy Sorrentino-to lead a new design studio within Reality Labs and overhaul Meta's UI across Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Quest. The hires signal Meta's push to emulate Apple's interaction design as it doubles down on AI hardware and software. CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the move on Threads, with Sorrentino confirming on Instagram. Analysts say the strikes are a bet on elevating visuals and usability across Meta's platforms while managing budgets for its AI initiatives. The shift comes as Meta leans into AI-powered wearables like Ray-Ban Meta lenses, where fashion-forward design is increasingly pivotal.

Nvidia Stock 2030 Outlook: Bull $491, Base $265, Bear $38 – AI Infrastructure, Data Center Growth, Margin Leadership

December 5, 2025, 11:20 AM EST. Nvidia remains at the center of the AI chip race. The company's AI infrastructure dominance-roughly 80% of the AI accelerator market through H100/H200 GPUs and CUDA software-helps it capture a growing $400 billion AI chip market forecast for 2030. Its data center expansion has surged from $4.3B in Q1 2023 to over $35.6B in Q4 2024, driven by ongoing architectural and efficiency gains. Critics warn margins may compress, but Nvidia has sustained margin leadership, posting a 73% gross margin in Q4 FY2025. 24/7 Wall St. projects Nvidia stock at $491 in the bull case, $265 base case, and $38 bear case by 2030, highlighting upside, base, and downside risks amid geopolitical headwinds and AI demand cycles.

Cathie Wood Shifts ARK Bets: Sells Meta and Tesla, Buys Trade Desk and More

December 5, 2025, 11:18 AM EST. On Dec 4, ARK founder Cathie Wood steered allocations, selling 14,211 shares of Meta for about $9.1M and trimming 7,478 shares of Tesla valued around $3.3M. The fund also bought 204,354 shares of Trade Desk (TTD) worth about $7.9M across multiple funds, signaling renewed interest in digital advertising platforms. Iridium Communications was reduced by about $4M across ARKK, ARKQ, and ARKX. New buys included ARKB (the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF), WeRide (WRD), Pure Storage (PSTG), and GeneDx (WGS). The moves suggest a rotation toward sectors seen as better positioned for the next growth phase, with allocations likely to evolve with market conditions.

Samsung One UI 8.5 leaks show quick settings overhaul, vertical sliders, and floating pills

December 5, 2025, 11:06 AM EST. A leaked build of Samsung's upcoming One UI 8.5 for the Galaxy S24 Ultra reveals a design-forward refresh across core apps. The standout change is a redesigned quick settings panel with vertically oriented sliders, categorized controls, and the ability to place toggles outside the collapsible area in a style reminiscent of iOS Control Center. Updates extend to first-party apps like Device Care, Settings, and Files, with a cleaner layout, bottom-anchored search, and removed descriptive text in categories. The phone app gains a floating pill for keypad/recents/contacts, while the camera app reorganizes its UI for faster access to options such as video format and external storage. The beta is expected next week, with broader availability to follow.

Gruber Slams Alan Dye as Apple Design Chief Ahead of Lemay's Move to Meta

December 5, 2025, 11:00 AM EST. Apple confirms software design chief Alan Dye is leaving and will be succeeded by Stephen Lemay, a long-time Apple interface designer, as Dye heads to Meta to lead a new creative studio in Reality Labs. In his Daring Fireball post, John Gruber criticizes Dye, saying he 'does not care about design' and notes reactions from Apple insiders suggesting Dye's background in UI design was lacking. Gruber argues Lemay's appointment could restore Apple's design standards and help 'stop the bleeding' in quality and talent. Tim Cook praises Lemay as a capable, collaborative designer. Dye's move marks a significant leadership shift since Jony Ive's era, echoing debates about Steve Jobs' era and Scott Forstall's ouster. Dye is set to start at Meta at the end of December.

ChatGPT AI Predicts Tesla Stock Edges Lower in December; 2030 Target $541

December 5, 2025, 10:58 AM EST. Tesla shares have sagged recently amid slowing EV demand, governance chatter, and valuation concerns, trading near $426 as December approaches. In a test of the pulse of AI, Benzinga and Yahoo Finance ran Tesla through an OpenAI GPT-powered price-prediction agent. The model, at about $429.85 when run, projects for Dec. 1-31 an average price of $425.77 with an implied move of roughly -0.95%. The MACD has turned positive and the RSI sits in the mid-50s, suggesting a balanced, sideways drift rather than a rally. The longer-term forecast even hints at $541 by 2030. Separately, SoFi offers a no-commission way to buy TSLA and a welcome-bonus incentive. The near term remains cautious as margins face headwinds and Europe shows pressure points.

LinkedIn Exec Debunks AI Apocalypse: Hiring Surges as AI Adoption Expands

December 5, 2025, 10:56 AM EST. LinkedIn's Sue Duke pushes back against the AI-apocalypse narrative, saying the data shows hiring is growing, not slowing. At Fortune's CEO Forum in London, she argued that organizations adopting AI are actually hiring more to leverage the technology, especially in business development, tech, and sales roles. For job seekers, she highlights two upskilling pillars: AI literacy and, crucially, uniquely human skills. While automation takes over routine tasks, communication, team building, and problem solving remain in demand. The emphasis is shifting toward adaptability-the ability to adjust to rapid tool changes-and on recruiting a workforce that can capitalize on AI-driven opportunities across sectors. This challenges high-profile predictions from figures like Elon Musk and Bill Gates about imminent job replacement.

Copper Theft Disrupts IT Infrastructure: Rising Copper Prices Threaten Internet Reliability

December 5, 2025, 10:52 AM EST. As cloud-reliant operations depend on stable connectivity, copper theft is emerging as a disruptive threat to telecom and IT infrastructure. The piece recounts outages and explains how thieves strip copper cables, causing collateral damage to nearby fiber networks. With copper prices rising, driven by demand for electrical wiring, EVs, solar, and recyclables, theft can yield large profits. Even when the backbone is fiber, copper theft can trigger widespread internet outages because copper lines run alongside fiber and are damaged in grab-and-run operations. The report highlights how higher copper prices and a thriving scrap market threaten service reliability and call for stronger physical security around network facilities.

iPhone 17 Ceramic Shield 2 hits snag: standard screen protectors undermine anti-reflective coating

December 5, 2025, 10:50 AM EST. New iPhone 17's Ceramic Shield 2 adds an improved anti-reflective (AR) layer, but standard screen protectors largely cancel it out. Astropad's testing shows the AR protection is lost when a protector with adhesive covers the glass: protective layer interferes with air contact, doubling overall reflectivity. Measured: iPhone 16 Pro 3.8% reflective; iPhone 17 Pro 2.0% reflective; iPhone 17 with a typical protector about 4.6% reflective-nearly double the prereq. The fix? use a screen protector with built-in anti-reflective features, such as Fresh Coat. If you're shopping for a protector, read the full Astropad study for details and share your own experiences with the iPhone 17 display.

AI chatbots can sway voters more than political ads, study finds

December 5, 2025, 10:46 AM EST. New research shows AI chatbots powered by LLMs can meaningfully shift voters' opinions in a single conversation-sometimes more effectively than political advertisements. In studies published in Nature and Science, participants interacted with chatbots trained to advocate for a candidate, revealing that even when models cited facts and evidence, the most persuasive were not always accurate. For example, Trump supporters exposed to a chatbot favoring Harris shifted about 3.9 points toward Harris, while Harris supporters moved 2.3 points toward Trump. Similar effects appeared in elections in Canada and Poland, with roughly 10-point swings. The findings challenge assumptions about resistance to persuasion and underscore potential policy, ethics, and election integrity questions as LLMs become more capable in real-time dialogue.

NanoPhone: Credit-card-sized smartphone on sale for $85

December 5, 2025, 10:42 AM EST. Sponsored deal: The NanoPhone is a credit-card-sized smartphone that's fully functioning and surprisingly practical. For two more days, it's available for about $84.97-$85. It's a quirky yet usable gadget, perfect as a tech gift or a pocketable personal device. Despite its size, you get calling, apps, and essential smartphone features in a compact form factor. Note that prices and availability can change after publication.

Cloudflare blocks 416 billion AI bot requests in five months; CEO warns internet business model will change

December 5, 2025, 10:40 AM EST. Cloudflare says it has blocked over 416 billion AI bot requests since making it the default option in July as part of its Content Independence Day initiative. The feature lets site owners block AI crawlers by default unless the AI companies pay for access. CEO Matthew Prince views this as a catalyst for a broader platform shift that could dramatically alter the internet business model. While most crawlers are blocked, Google's combined search/AI crawler complicates opt-outs, since opting out of one affects indexing. Prince argues the internet's current model relies on monetizable content and that licensing deals may help publishers while enabling Cloudflare to grow. The piece also notes internet concentration around a handful of players and how a single service outage can cause billions in losses.

Pixel 10 AoD Flicker After December 2025 Update

December 5, 2025, 10:38 AM EST. Pixel 10 owners report a flicker in the Always-On Display after Google's December 2025 update, occurring during wireless charging, clock refreshes, and after unlock. The issue appears limited to Pixel 10, with no similar reports from older Pixel models so far. Google rolled out the update with features like AI-powered notifications, lock screen widgets, and new icon shapes, but AoD glitches emerged for some users on Reddit (via Android Authority). A temporary workaround is to disable Always-On Display in Settings. Google has not issued an official fix yet, but a broader hotfix could arrive if the problem spreads. Android Central will continue monitoring and provide updates.

Smartphone Disaster Plan: Insurance, Repairs, and Lost-Phone Recovery

December 5, 2025, 10:32 AM EST. Prepare a practical smartphone disaster plan to stay connected and protect data when a device breaks or vanishes. Sign up for a protection plan or phone insurance-options like AppleCare for iPhone, SamsungCare for Galaxy, or third-party coverage can cut repair times and costs. Know repair routes in advance: nearest Apple Store, trusted third-party shops with official parts, or local repair chains; be aware that non-mainstream brands may require mail-in repairs or replacements. For lost phones, use Find My to locate, lock, and display a recovery message. Mapping out repair and tracking steps now minimizes downtime and data risk later.

Pokemon Legends: Z-A Reveals New Mystery Gift Distribution with PREPAR1NG Code

December 5, 2025, 10:26 AM EST. Pokemon Legends: Z-A players can claim a fresh Mystery Gift distribution on both Nintendo Switch 2 and Switch. Redeem the code PREPAR1NG to receive five Max Revives, ten Full Restores, and ten Ultra Balls. To claim: Launch the game, open Menu > Link Play, choose Mystery Gift > Get with Code/Password, enter PREPAR1NG, and watch the gift arrive (auto-saves). The code stays valid through March 31, 2026. This promo coincides with prep for the upcoming Mega Dimension DLC.

Why Android Auto Still Frustrates Me After Years of Daily Use

December 5, 2025, 10:24 AM EST. In this piece, the author explains why Android Auto still frustrates daily drivers. Across flagship phones, OEM dashboards, and aftermarket displays, the promise of a seamless navigation assistant often collapses into ongoing troubleshooting. Whether wired or wireless, connection dropouts and dark screens turn commuting into guesswork, draining patience and attention. After years of testing, the author finds that the system shifts responsibility onto the user-requiring workarounds, updates, and repeated re-connections-rather than providing effortless guidance. In challenging urban driving like Sydney CBD, this inconsistency undermines trust in a product many rely on every day, highlighting a core gap between Android Auto's hype and real-world reliability.

Alaska to Gain Redundant Undersea Fiber Links Connecting Juneau, Cordova, and Seward by 2027

December 5, 2025, 10:22 AM EST. Cordova Telecom Cooperative and GCI are partnering to lay two undersea fiber cables-one from Juneau to Cordova and another from Cordova to Seward-set to start service in fall 2027. The project will deliver high-speed internet to communities in Prince William Sound and northern Southeast Alaska, while creating a new route for traffic between the Railbelt and Outside. When combined with existing cables, the link will provide critical redundancy and a backup during outages, reducing the likelihood of disruptions that have hit rural Alaska in recent years. Officials say this boosts access to the digital economy for remote residents, though experts warn fiber remains vulnerable to ice, anchors, and earthquakes.

Antigravity A1 Debuts as Gesture-Controlled 360-Degree Drone, Sparking DJI Showdown

December 5, 2025, 10:20 AM EST. DJI is facing renewed pressure as a new rival enters its turf: Antigravity and its debut A1 drone, a 360-degree camera drone built with help from Insta360. Instead of traditional sticks, operators wear Vision Goggles for first-person view and rely on head tracking, while control is executed with hand gestures via the Antigravity Grip Controller. Prices start at $1,599 for the standard bundle. DJI counters with a competing 360-degree drone, the Avata 360, planned for January 2026, setting the stage for a potential high-stakes showdown if the US government allows continued DJI sales beyond the December 23, 2025 deadline.

ChatGPT-based AI model predicts modest December 2025 move for Apple stock

December 5, 2025, 10:18 AM EST. In a tech-market note, an AI price-prediction agent powered by OpenAI's GPT forecasts a modest uptick for Apple (AAPL) through December, with an average price of $280.75 and an implied move of about +1.0% from a $277.84 starting point. Indicators such as MACD turning higher and RSI in the mid-50s signal a steady, not stretched, path. The model's longer-range view suggests Apple could reach $514 by 2030, supported by strong hardware and services fundamentals. The piece also highlights Apple's December-quarter guide of $137-$139B revenue, the iPhone 17 cycle, and margins amid a cautious macro backdrop. Readers are shown a trade-off between near-term stability and longer-term upside.

Warner Bros.' Hidden AI Library Could Be Netflix's Secret Supercharger

December 5, 2025, 10:12 AM EST. Warner Bros.' AI trove could be Netflix's quiet accelerator in a Warner Bros deal. A rich content library spanning decades would let Netflix train models and offer users a sandbox to play with. Netflix executives didn't spell this angle on the call, but the subtext was clear: a bigger AI moat if the deal closes. With catalog from Harry Potter to Looney Tunes, Netflix could enable user-generated experiences and even classics like Casablanca or Citizen Kane as test beds. Netflix brings more than 15 years of ML experience-data on customers and algorithms-that, paired with Warner Bros.' catalog, could power a Sora-like AI or a broader gaming push. Training realities and legal guardrails remain tricky, but the strategic incentive is evident.

Smartwatch Breathing Trends Point to Hidden Bedroom Air Quality Issues

December 5, 2025, 10:00 AM EST. Smartwatches have evolved into powerful health monitors that track rhythms and subtle body changes. Among these features, breathing data stands out as an underrated indicator that can reveal more than sleep quality: it can reflect bedroom air quality. When breathing becomes irregular or shallow at night, it often signals environmental issues overlooked during the day, such as poor ventilation, closed windows, or stagnant air. Advanced sensors detect micro-disturbances-brief awakenings or heart-rate shifts-that tie to air conditions. Over time, nightly data may show patterns where nights with windows shut or an off air purifier correspond to declining breathing quality. In short, a smartwatch can provide indirect insight into indoor air quality and encourage airflow improvements for healthier sleep.

GPT-Based Nvidia Outlook: Modest 30-Day Gain Amid 2030 Target at $920

December 5, 2025, 9:58 AM EST. An AI-driven price model using OpenAI's GPT projects Nvidia to edge higher over the next 30 days, with an average target of $180.75 and an implied move of 3.08%. The base-case read shows MACD and RSI turning mildly positive, signaling a grind higher rather than a dramatic rally. Beyond the near term, the model cites a longer-term bull case with a potential path to around $920.09 by 2030. Nvidia also delivered a record quarterly revenue of $57B, with data-center revenue of $51.2B, underscoring its continued growth. However, the stock remains priced for perfection amid AI-market hype and competition. The article notes investor tension and mentions an approach to access Nvidia exposure via SoFi's commission-free platform.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3 now $529.99 at Best Buy – $270 off

December 5, 2025, 9:56 AM EST. Best Buy has slashed the price of the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 to $529.99, a $270 drop from its $799.99 MSRP. This compact gimbal-camera combo still delivers standout stabilization, 4K video, and impressive slow-motion footage. The new 1-inch sensor boosts image quality in low light, and the portrait filming mode makes vertical content creation a breeze. Features like automatic face tracking and dynamic framing save setup time so you can focus on the shot. With rumors of an Osmo Pocket 4, this deal keeps the Pocket 3 as a top pick for vloggers and creators on the go. For alternatives, consider the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro or the GoPro Hero 13 Black.

Tesla Announces 'Autonomy Visualized' Pop-Up in Miami During Art Basel Week

December 5, 2025, 9:44 AM EST. Tesla is hosting a surprise pop-up, 'The Future of Autonomy Visualized,' in the Miami Design District during Art Basel Week. The immersive exhibit aims to reveal the software behind FSD, Optimus, and Tesla vehicles, including a 3D voxel view of what the car's system actually sees. Attendees can RSVP for Dec 6-7, with early arrival advised due to high demand. Highlights likely include the physical Cybercab and Optimus prototypes, plus a behind-the-scenes tour of the AI-driven occupancy network powering Tesla's perception stack. This event underscores Tesla's focus on software-first autonomy and offers a rare glimpse into the digital mind behind its mobility and robotics ecosystem.

Healthcare named 'ultimate hedge' against AI correction, according to Kepler Cheuvreux

December 5, 2025, 9:40 AM EST. Amid chatter about an AI bubble, Kepler Cheuvreux argues that healthcare offers shelter for investors. Analyst Arnaud Girod told CNBC that healthcare sits opposite the AI anxiety, with tariffs and other headwinds fading as AI boosts efficiencies and innovation. Investors are seeking businesses whose franchises won't be disrupted by AI, or that can use AI for cost cuts and productivity gains. The sector has benefited as US tech stocks rally and Pharma benefits from long-term themes like aging demographics and obesity. Cheuvreux upgraded European healthcare to Strong Overweight, noting the sector could be the ultimate hedge against an AI correction in 2026. Tariffs, US manufacturing pledges, and drug pricing developments also factor into the move.

Deck the Aisles with AI: Empowering Retail Frontline Workers to Delight Customers

December 5, 2025, 9:38 AM EST. Holiday sales drive a sizable share of U.S. retail revenue, hinged on a motivated frontline workforce. The NRF places retail as the largest private-sector employer, with 55 million workers and $5.3 trillion in GDP impact. Yet Accenture's U.S. Retail Frontline Worker Survey reveals rising stress and fatigue, with 69% feeling exhausted and widespread concerns about retaining staff. The frontline pressure cooker highlights staffing gaps, with many workers citing heavy lines, answering product availability questions, and theft prevention as stressors. Consumers face frustration when help is hard to reach, and 82% report online stock not matching in-store availability. The report points to an AI and digital tooling as a beacon-Gen AI on the shop floor to improve efficiency, accuracy, and customer delight while supporting workers.

These 4 Quantum-Computing Pure-Play Stocks Could Soar Up to 264% in 2026, Analysts Say

December 5, 2025, 9:36 AM EST. Over the past year, IonQ, Rigetti Computing (RGTI), D-Wave Quantum (QBTS), and Quantum Computing Inc. (QUBT) have surged up to 684%, with a rare moment of 5,400% trailing-12-month gains in 2025. Select Wall Street analysts still foresee triple-digit upside in 2026, with targets up to 264%. For example, IonQ could rise to $100 (≈113%), Rigetti to $51 (≈114%), and D-Wave to $48 (≈113%), according to analysts. While the hype is high, the sector faces meaningful headwinds, even as government and enterprise demand for quantum computing intensifies. If realized, the pure-play quantum stocks would reflect the broader potential of this frontier technology.

NASA's SpaceX Crew-11 Launches to the ISS from Kennedy Space Center

December 5, 2025, 9:34 AM EST. Video captures the Falcon 9 rocket lifting off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida as NASA's Crew-11 heads to the International Space Station. The crew features NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, joined by JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov. Mission marks another milestone for SpaceX and NASA collaboration.

Apple confirms iPhone 17 Pro drops Night Mode in Portrait mode, sparking controversy

December 5, 2025, 9:22 AM EST. Apple has officially confirmed via a support document that the iPhone 17 Pro series lacks Night Mode when shooting in Portrait mode. This removes a feature that every Pro model since 2020 offered, despite user complaints that Night Mode fails to activate in Portrait shots. Night Mode extends exposure to pull light in dim scenes, and failing to engage can hinder portrait processing, according to affected users. The move arrives amid other iPhone 17 Pro controversies, including a YouTuber JerryRigEverything stress test showing chipped edges around the camera island, reports of MagSafe-area scratches, and occasional color shifts to pink tones in demo units. Apple has not publicly commented on these issues.

SOL Shogunate: PS5 Sci-Fi Samurai Action RPG Teased by Chaos Manufacturing

December 5, 2025, 9:20 AM EST. Chaos Manufacturing announced SOL Shogunate, a single-player sci-fi action RPG for PS5 about samurai in space. Set in an alternate future where humanity colonizes planets under a powerful Shogunate, you play as Yuzuki, a former samurai who becomes a ronin seeking justice after a clan massacre. The moon serves as a major setting with sprawling cityscapes and gravity shifts in different environments. Combat emphasizes precision, timing, and adaptability; you wield a genetically modified ronin with augmentations and energy-powered attacks to stagger foes and expose weaknesses. The game will feature original music from artists like AliA to elevate action sequences. No release date yet.

Microsoft's Copilot+ fizzled, but it pushed Windows toward an AI PC era

December 5, 2025, 9:16 AM EST. Microsoft's Copilot+ launched last year to package AI-powered features into premium laptops, but consumer excitement never matched the hype. Features like Recall raised privacy concerns, and its promise to remember files and sites never proved essential for most buyers. Sales tell the tale: less than 10% of systems in Q3 2024, and IDC data show Copilot+ accounted for about 2.3% of Windows machines in Q1 2025, or 1.9% of the overall PC market. The company pivoted to make every Windows 11 PC an AI PC, introducing cloud-based Hey Copilot voice commands and Copilot Vision that don't require NPUs. Still, the program did push real improvements: a standard 16GB RAM, 256GB storage, and a push to optimize Windows for mobile Arm processors, culminating in a better Surface Pro with Snapdragon.

From Print to BBS to AI: The History of Far-Right Online Propaganda and the Policy Challenge

December 5, 2025, 9:14 AM EST. An historian traces how far-right extremism moved from print newsletters to online networks, raising thorny policy questions about policing online hate while preserving free speech. Before the internet, German censorship and U.S. First Amendment protections shaped propaganda flows: newsletters mailed cross-border, costly and easy to confiscate. With home computers, extremists adopted bulletin board systems as precursors to the web, dialing into organization-hosted BBSes to exchange propaganda, documents and software. The piece notes how American neo-Nazis leveraged legal protections to bypass censorship, then supply networks in Europe. As AI looms, the author argues the same dynamics-global reach, amplified messaging, and funding constraints-make coordinated monitoring and counter-messaging essential, even as free-speech safeguards complicate enforcement. The history shows technology shifts reshape extremist tactics and the policy response.

Minecraft 1.21.11 Release Candidate 2 fixes crash, introduces unobfuscated option for Java Edition

December 5, 2025, 9:12 AM EST. Today we ship Minecraft 1.21.11 Release Candidate 2, fixing a crash that affected some players. This RC is for Minecraft: Java Edition and can be installed via the Minecraft Launcher by enabling snapshots in the Installations tab. Testing versions can corrupt worlds, so back up saves or run RCs in a separate folder. A cross-platform server jar is available. As obfuscation is being removed, you can also try a non-obfuscated experimental version by downloading the zip, unpacking it into your versions folder, restarting the Launcher, and selecting the unobfuscated RC. An unobfuscated server jar link is provided. For bugs and feedback, please report them.

Experimental Evidence That AI Dialogues Persuade Voters More Than Traditional Campaigns

December 5, 2025, 9:10 AM EST. Researchers conducted pre-registered experiments to test whether large language models can sway political opinions. In simulated conversations tied to the 2024 US presidential race, the 2025 Canadian federal election, and the 2025 Polish presidential race, participants were randomly assigned to chat with an AI advocating for one of the top candidates. The results showed substantial treatment effects on candidate preference-larger than typical television ads-and even shifted support for a Massachusetts ballot measure on psychedelics. Analyses of the AI's persuasion strategies revealed reliance on relevant facts and evidence rather than sophisticated psychological tricks, though some claims were inaccurate, with models backing right-leaning candidates making more erroneous statements. The findings highlight AI's powerful potential to influence voters and underscore the need for policy safeguards and transparent AI communication in political campaigns.

China Threatens Nvidia With Its Own Company: Moore Threads and the AI Chip Race

December 5, 2025, 9:08 AM EST. China's AI-chip push challenges Nvidia as the U.S. clamps down on selling its most powerful chips to Chinese buyers. Nvidia, led by Jensen Huang, remains a global force with a market cap around $4.46 trillion and strong momentum (revenue up 62% YoY to $57B; EPS up 67% to $1.30). In parallel, Moore Threads-China's rival to Nvidia-began trading on the Shanghai exchange, its stock jumping about 500% on opening day. The debate, dubbed the Huang Argument, asks whether China can match or beat the U.S. in AI chip development, and whether restricting Nvidia exports merely slows progress or spurs homegrown capacity. If government backing sustains such efforts, the next few years could reshape the global chip landscape in the race for AI supremacy.

The Far Right mobilizes against Trump AI czar David Sacks over AI policy order

December 5, 2025, 8:54 AM EST. A brewing executive order would let the federal government punish states for enacting their own AI policy laws, sparking a clash with Trump's White House and its claimed AI and crypto czar, David Sacks. The Verge reports that the plan has MAGA Republicans and hard-right outlets circulating warnings, while policy insiders warn a swift moratorium on state AI rules could be politically dangerous. Behind the scenes, Susie Wiles and other aides reportedly pressure against signing something that could provoke backlash among voters, tech firms, and lawmakers. The confrontation underscores how policy debates over AI regulation have become a flashpoint in the broader partisan battle.

As China defies the US tech blockade, can local AI-chipmakers capture Nvidia's share?

December 5, 2025, 8:52 AM EST. Amid a tightening tech race, China pursues self-sufficiency in semiconductors and AI, buoyed by talent and resources. Analysts say a China capable of reducing its dependence on foreign tech could reshape the landscape even as the US tightens export controls. Chinese firms like Alibaba and DeepSeek have shown AI models that run with far less computing power, challenging assumptions that power alone guarantees leadership. A bipartisan bill would prevent loosening rules restricting Beijing's access to AI chips for two-and-a-half years, arguing that the best AI chips remain from the United States. The question remains: can China's push under strict export controls translate into gains for local chipmakers and potentially Nvidia's market share?

Apple Watch Ultra Alpine Loop Black with Natural Titanium hits all-time low on Amazon

December 5, 2025, 8:40 AM EST. Amazon cuts the official Black Alpine Loop for the Apple Watch Ultra in Natural Titanium to an all-time low of $81.18 shipped. Available only in the Small size (130-160mm), this 2025 release from September rarely goes on discount. Regularly $99, this is the best price seen yet for Apple's official band. The Alpine Loop is made from two woven textile layers with no stitching, reinforced with high-strength yarns and a titanium G-hook for a secure fit. It uses 43% recycled content by weight and relies on clean energy for manufacturing. FTC: affiliate links. If you're adding to your collection, this is a strong option among official Apple bands.

New Android banking Trojan Albiriox Uses MaaS and Fake APKs to Target Banking Apps

December 5, 2025, 8:22 AM EST. Researchers have uncovered a new Android banking trojan called Albiriox. Distributed as counterfeit APKs, it's sold via Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS) on dark-web forums and spread through fake Google Play Store listings and promotions, then delivered via messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. The dropper enables the install unknown apps permission, after which the malicious package installs the main Albiriox payload. Unlike credential theft, the malware can perform transactions directly within target banking, fintech, or cryptocurrency apps. So far, authorities report hundreds of fake apps and growing reach, with activity centered in Russia and nearby regions. Users should download only from the official Google Play Store, keep Play Protect up to date, and install the latest firmware updates, including the Android Security Bulletin.

Google Year in Search 2025: Top Trending Queries and Moments

December 5, 2025, 8:18 AM EST. Google's Year in Search 2025 highlights the year's most surged queries, from news events to pop culture. The report shows Charlie Kirk as the top US trend, with his death driving traffic and his Wikipedia page among the year's most-read articles. Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters lands at No. 2, with three songs from the film – Golden, Soda Pop, and Takedown – dominating the music list. Labubu, the creature from Pop Mart, rounds out the top 3 after a wave of popularity, including a Macy's Parade float. The era's parental buzz is reflected in '6-7' as the top hand gesture and related 'what does…mean' and 'why do kids say…' questions. Full country breakdowns are on Google's Year in Search site.

Cloudflare outage disrupts LinkedIn, Zoom and other sites

December 5, 2025, 8:16 AM EST. Cloudflare faced another outage Friday morning, taking down or delaying access to sites like LinkedIn, Zoom, and Downdetector. The company said it was investigating issues with the Cloudflare Dashboard and related APIs, noting users saw large numbers of empty pages. A potential fix was implemented as the incident was monitored. The disruption affected Downdetector and other platforms; Groww reported outages tied to Cloudflare, though services have since recovered. Cloudflare, which provides network and security services to roughly 20% of websites, followed a separate recent outage that hit X, ChatGPT, Spotify, and some multiplayer games such as League of Legends. Cybersecurity adviser Jake Moore warned that a major provider going down creates a broad, global impact and highlights a single point of failure in legacy routing.

Anthropic Interviewer launches to scale AI attitude research with 1,250 interviews

December 5, 2025, 7:56 AM EST. Anthropic Interviewer is a new tool that runs automated, in-depth interviews at scale to understand how people use and feel about AI. In a test run powered by Claude, we conducted 1,250 interviews with professionals (1,000 general workforce, 125 scientists, 125 creatives) and publicly released the data with participant consent. The study highlights optimism about AI's role in work, with many topics centered on productivity gains. However, concerns persist around educational integration, artist displacement, and security. General workforce respondents want to preserve identity-defining tasks while delegating routine work to AI. Creatives report higher productivity from AI. The project emphasizes protecting user privacy, centering humans in model development, and outlines future work through partnerships with creatives, scientists, and teachers, plus further data-driven analysis.

Tesla launches low-cost Model 3 variant in Europe to defend market share

December 5, 2025, 7:52 AM EST. Tesla has rolled out a new Standard version of its Model 3 in Europe, expanding its lower-cost lineup to defend market share in a price-competitive region. The Model 3 Standard is listed at 37,970 in Germany, 330,056 Norwegian crowns in Norway, and 449,990 Swedish crowns in Sweden, according to Tesla's site. The variant debuted in the US in October at $36,990 but had not been available in Europe until now. The launch follows a cheaper Model Y in Europe earlier this year, as rivals accelerate production of cheaper EVs. Tesla says the Standard trim aims to reinvigorate interest in its core sedan lineup, central to its European sales strategy. Investors will watch how the pricing affects regional deliveries ahead of the next quarterly report.

AI-Generated Content Undermines Reddit Moderation on r/AmItheAsshole

December 5, 2025, 7:50 AM EST. Moderators on Reddit's r/AmItheAsshole say AI-generated posts are flooding the site, challenging rules that ban manipulated or inauthentic content. Since ChatGPT's 2022 debut, volunteers like Cassie report a surge of AI-made or AI-edited submissions, complicating decisions in a community built on real-life storytelling. The problem spans subreddits from r/AITA to its many derivatives (AmIOverreacting, AmItheDevil), with users often asking AI to punch up or rewrite posts. Reddit has publicly stated a commitment to authenticity, but moderators warn that AI could distort the platform's culture if left unchecked. The tension highlights broader questions about AI-assisted content, platform moderation, and the delicate balance between engagement and trust on social networks.

iOS 26.2 Release Date Nears as Apple Nudges Upgrade from iOS 18

December 5, 2025, 7:48 AM EST. Apple appears to be nudging users toward iOS 26 as the default upgrade, with the iOS 26.2 release candidate arriving for developers on Dec. 3 and a general rollout targeted for mid-December. The piece notes that iOS 18 updates were previously prominent but are being pushed lower in Settings, and future iOS 18 security updates may be limited to older devices like the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR. On newer models, including devices likely to ship with iOS 26 pre-installed, staying on iOS 18 could disappear. The schedule points to a rollout around Dec. 15-16, with earlier possibilities, and confirms continued security updates for legacy hardware.

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