Technology News 12.02.2026

SpaceX and xAI merge; Moon base, space datacenters and IPO plan

February 12, 2026, 11:58 PM EST. SpaceX and xAI announced a merger forming a new company that will pursue an IPO, according to Musk Industries. The plan includes space-based datacenters and a Moon base rather than Mars. SpaceX's revenue is said to come largely from Starlink, a satellite broadband service with a growing subscriber base. The firm is said to achieve cost advantages in launching payloads via Starship, enabling rapid scale of space logistics and telecom capacity. Analysts note the market has not fully absorbed the implications of cheaper access to space, comparing the trajectory to earlier tech adoptions that created overcapacity before demand. The piece explains how Starlink revenue supports the multi-planet ambition.

Dating apps optimize engagement and profits, not love, says industry analysis

February 12, 2026, 11:56 PM EST. Dating apps surge around Valentine's Day, but researchers say the platforms are engineered to sell time and attention, not love. Companies market digital dating as a shortcut to connection while economic logic rewards longer sessions, more data, and paid features. Match Group, a leader with Tinder, Hinge, and more, reported US$878 million in Q4 revenue, yet paying users fell about 5% year over year. The strategy leans on AI tools to recruit younger users and convert free users to subscribers. Designers deploy gamified choices, intermittent rewards, and constant notifications to trigger a fear of missing out. In this system, relationship outcomes are secondary to monetization and growth metrics.

Crystal Dynamics reveals Legacy of Kain: Defiance Remastered and Ascendance, a new prequel

February 12, 2026, 11:52 PM EST. Crystal Dynamics rolled out two Legacy of Kain projects during PlayStation State of Play: a remastered Defiance and a new Ascendance. Legacy of Kain: Defiance Remastered will launch March 3, 2026 for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. Developed with PlayEveryWare, the package upgrades HD visuals, modernized controls, and adds bonus content, a new camera, updated character models, and environments. Players can toggle between classic and modern presentation and access photo mode, skins, a lore reader, unreleased content, and lost levels. Legacy of Kain: Ascendance, a fast-paced 2D action platformer from Bit Bot Media with FreakZone Games, features original voice actors and serves as a prequel.

AI rally rattles markets as sectors reel; Anthropic raises $30B, CPI in focus

February 12, 2026, 11:48 PM EST. Artificial intelligence is reshaping markets, with real estate, trucking and logistics among the latest sectors hit by AI fears. Anthropic closed a $30 billion funding round at a $380 billion post-money valuation. Apple slipped 5% on Thursday, its worst day since April, as the S&P 500 retreated for a third straight session. Traders await January CPI data, with a 2.5% year-over-year gain priced in; JPMorgan Chase says the index could swing as much as 2.5% either way depending on the numbers. SoftBank lifted its OpenAI investment, boosting its Vision Fund. In Singapore, a national AI council and six months of free access to tools were announced. CK Hutchison said it would seek legal recourse over a Panama port dispute involving Maersk.

Round Up: Previews Signal Promise for Pokémon Pokopia

February 12, 2026, 11:46 PM EST. Pokémon Pokopia is pitched as a cozy, battle-light spin on the series. Our staff writer Ollie Reynolds found the game surprisingly charming, saying it scratches an itch for players disappointed by the lack of a new Animal Crossing. Across outlets, previews stress a relaxed vibe and noncombat play: GoNintendo notes its potential to resonate with fans craving a low-stakes experience; GamesRadar+ calls it an Animal Crossing-flavored life sim with exploration, building and collection. Mashable likens it to Pokémon meets Minecraft, while Gamingbible praises its accessibility to both hardcore fans and newcomers. Game Informer says the balance between Pokémon aesthetics and open-ended mechanics avoids dullness. The game is due to launch in early March, fueling anticipation among fans and observers.

China's Wenchang space hub grows as rocket launches drive industry and tourism

February 12, 2026, 11:44 PM EST. China's southern launch hub at Wenchang fired the Long March-12 rocket, placing the 19th batch of low-orbit internet satellites into preset orbit. The mission signals the site's entrance into high-density, routine operations after the first commercial launches. The Wenchang International Aerospace City (WIAC) now hosts more than 700 space-related firms along an end-to-end supply chain from manufacturing to data services. In 2025, WIAC revenue surpassed 20 billion yuan. Authorities cite incentives under the Hainan Free Trade Port as drawing global firms and accelerating this ecosystem. Space launches are reshaping local tourism, with Wenchang recording over one million visitors in 2025 as rocket viewing and aerospace education centers draw crowds. A new Space Town is taking shape with additional launch pads.

Samsung offers up to $900 trade-in ahead of Galaxy S26 Unpacked

February 12, 2026, 11:42 PM EST. Samsung has scheduled a Galaxy Unpacked event for Feb. 25 at 1 p.m. EST and opened a trade-in program offering up to $900 toward a Galaxy S26 pre-order. That's $200 more than the current top trade-in, which caps at $700. Signing up lets you estimate your offer by selecting your current manufacturer (Samsung, Apple, Google, or Other) and model; you can also opt in to a $5,000 sweepstakes and receive a $30 accessory credit with your pre-order. The exact trade-in value varies by device, and Samsung may reward its own phones more. The window is not fully open, but users can begin the process now on Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked reservation site. Offers should appear closer to Unpacked.

Tesla faces leadership exodus as executives depart amid pivot to robotics

February 12, 2026, 11:40 PM EST. Tesla has suffered a leadership exodus since 2024, with executives and managers departing as the company pivots toward robotics and AI. Electrek reported that Benjamin Bate, Tesla's Director of Vehicle Operations and Engineering in Fremont, left after more than eight years, joining a broader turnover across engineering, manufacturing and design roles. Observers describe a morale issue and a slowdown in automotive innovation, contrasting Tesla with peers like Chevrolet, BMW, Ford and Porsche. One 2025 report cites a nearly 28% year-over-year sales drop, fueling concerns about demand, service levels and pricing. Meanwhile, rivals including BYD have gained ground in the expanding EVs market, while greener production methods and battery tech drive the shift away from traditional cars.

Massachusetts rolls out ChatGPT-powered AI assistant for state workers

February 12, 2026, 11:38 PM EST. Massachusetts will roll out a ChatGPT-powered AI assistant for about 40,000 executive-branch workers under a three-year contract with OpenAI. The rollout will be phased, with pricing starting at $13 per worker per month and decreasing to $9 as more agencies sign on. The app, built on ChatGPT but shielded by privacy protections, will keep state data separate and not use worker inputs to train public models. Gov. Maura Healey framed the move as a milestone for government AI adoption, citing supports for citizen inquiries, email drafting and data organization. The plan emerged at a Whoop event with the Massachusetts AI Coalition; OpenAI CEO Sam Altman highlighted new workflows and tools like Codex. Some states have limited AI use, but Massachusetts is pursuing broad deployment.

Russia restricts Telegram over data protection and content concerns, Telegram says move aims at a state-backed rival

February 12, 2026, 11:34 PM EST. Russia has restricted the messaging app Telegram, citing failures to protect personal data and curb criminal content. Officials say the move aims to enforce stricter safeguards and public safety. Telegram argues the restriction is a political lever to push users toward a state-backed alternative. CNN's Frederik Pleitgen reports.

YouTube launches dedicated visionOS app for Apple Vision Pro with 8K playback

February 12, 2026, 11:28 PM EST. YouTube has released a dedicated visionOS app for Apple Vision Pro, ending a two-year wait since launch when it relied on Safari. The app brings standard videos and Shorts to a theater-size immersive screen, with a new Spatial tab for 3D, VR180 and 360-degree formats, 8K playback on M5-equipped devices, and gesture-based controls to resize windows and scrub videos. Earlier, third-party options like Juno briefly appeared before being removed for Terms of Service violations. The release follows rivals that already offer native Vision Pro experiences. YouTube's timing suggests caution about headset traction, as Vision Pro sales appeared soft in late 2025. The app is now in the visionOS App Store and supports both M2 and M5 chips.

Apple releases iOS 26.3 with new wallpapers, privacy tweaks and Android data-transfer feature

February 12, 2026, 11:26 PM EST. Apple on Tuesday released iOS 26.3 for iPhone 11 and later, delivering new wallpaper options and enhanced privacy controls along with a data-transfer feature to Android devices. Users can upgrade via Settings > General > Software Update. The update adds separate Wallpaper options for Astronomy and Weather, plus three pre-designed Weather wallpaper styles with different fonts and widgets for the lock screen. A new Limit Precise Location control reduces the granularity of coordinates shared with cellular networks, sending a general neighborhood instead of a precise address. The option speaks to Apple's ongoing privacy push. The article notes the transfer-to-Android capability but provides no further details on cross-platform data handling. The update addresses bug fixes and security improvements and requires iPhone 11 or newer.

SpaceX lifts Starlink waitlist in all markets, targeting rapid growth in 2026

February 12, 2026, 11:22 PM EST. SpaceX has removed the signup waitlist for its Starlink satellite broadband service in all markets, ending a hurdle that persisted outside the United States. The change follows last year's removal of the waitlist in the U.S. and underscores a push to accelerate user growth in 2026. SpaceX says deployments will expand to homes and small businesses, especially where fixed broadband is sparse. Starlink links a constellation of satellites to user terminals to provide internet service; customers apply and gain access when capacity is available. The company did not disclose regional uptake, but executives have signaled aggressive growth targets for 2026.

Alibaba expands AI ecosystem with RynnBrain open-source robotics model and Qwen uptake

February 12, 2026, 11:20 PM EST. Alibaba Group Holding is expanding its AI footprint with the launch of RynnBrain, an open-source robotics foundation model, part of a broader push into AI, e-commerce and cloud services. The company also reports rapid Qwen adoption during the Lunar New Year period, with growth among rural communities and older users-many first-time online participants. The moves place Alibaba alongside global AI peers like Google and Nvidia in robotics while tying AI more closely to consumer products and digital services. Early traction in non-urban demographics hints at a shift beyond core urban users, potentially shaping the company's future mix of cloud, commerce and devices. Still, heavy incentive spending and AI infrastructure investment could pressure margins if monetisation lags.

SpaceX Crew-12 mission to ISS slated for Friday launch; NASA and SpaceX outline webcast

February 12, 2026, 11:16 PM EST. SpaceX's Crew-12 mission for NASA is set for liftoff from Cape Canaveral on Feb. 13. The Falcon 9 rocket will carry the Dragon spacecraft to the ISS, with liftoff scheduled at 5:15 a.m. EST (1015 GMT). NASA's webcast begins at 3:15 a.m. EST, streaming on NASA+, YouTube, Amazon Prime, and Space.com. A separate NASA webcast will cover docking to the ISS on Feb. 14. Ground conditions are forecast at a 90% chance of favorable weather. Viewers can also watch live on the Space.com feed and the site's YouTube channel.

SpaceX Crew-12 launch to the ISS poised for Friday liftoff, NASA says

February 12, 2026, 11:12 PM EST. NASA and SpaceX are set to launch the Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station from Cape Canaveral. The Falcon 9 rocket will lift the Dragon spacecraft at 5:15 a.m. EST (1015 GMT) on Feb. 13, with NASA's webcast starting at 3:15 a.m. EST. Viewers can watch via NASA+, YouTube, Amazon Prime and Space.com's feed. Docking to the ISS is expected on Feb. 14 if all goes to plan. Forecasters assign a 90% chance of favorable weather for launch, though winds and downrange conditions will be watched. SpaceX will track the booster return, and a post-liftoff landing is anticipated. Updates will flow as the countdown progresses.

Meta CTO hints Quest 4 remains on roadmap with 2027 release window

February 12, 2026, 10:50 PM EST. Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth, in a Davos interview, seemed to confirm a leak that a Quest 4 remains on the roadmap. The December memos described a gaming-focused headset as a large upgrade over Quest 3, with no subsidy and a higher price, alongside an ultralight mixed-reality headset with a tethered puck slated for H1 2027. CFO Susan Li later reiterated optimism about VR and ongoing headset development, even as Meta trimmed certain VR studios and business offerings. Bosworth did not specify dates, saying a period of time could be anything, even tomorrow. UploadVR says the ultralight may ship in H1 2027, with Quest 4 not earlier than H2 2027; a codename for Quest 4 is Griffin. Ultralight codenames include Puffin, Loma, Phoenix.

Meta CTO signals Quest 4 on roadmap as 2027 headset cadence emerges

February 12, 2026, 10:48 PM EST. Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth, in a Davos interview with Alex Heath, signals that a Quest 4 remains on the roadmap, noting a leaked plan about two devices on the horizon. Internal December memos described a gaming-focused headset with a larger upgrade over Quest 3 and an ultralight mixed-reality model with a tethered puck slated for the first half of 2027. UploadVR's reporting had suggested the Quest 4 could have been canceled in 2026, but Bosworth's present-tense framing implies the Quest 4 candidate survives. Timing remains unclear: the ultralight headset is expected in H1 2027, with the traditional Quest 4 not before H2 2027. Codenames surfaced: the ultralight possibly Puffin/Loma/Phoenix, and the Quest 4 unit as Griffin. CFO Susan Li reiterated optimism for VR and a shift toward AI glasses and wearables, amid layoffs and studio closures.

Rayman 30th Anniversary Edition launches Feb. 13, bundles five early versions

February 12, 2026, 10:22 PM EST. Ubisoft and Digital Eclipse will release the Rayman 30th Anniversary Edition tomorrow, February 13, for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, and PC at $19.99. The package marks 30 years of Rayman, focusing on the original 1995 game across its historical versions: PlayStation, Atari Jaguar, MS-DOS, Game Boy Advance, and Game Boy Color, plus a never-before-playable SNES prototype. It adds 120 new levels, a reimagined soundtrack by Christophe Héral, and features like rewind, optional infinite lives and invincibility. True to Digital Eclipse's style, the release includes an interactive documentary with roughly an hour of interviews, unseen concept art, early sketches, and design documents.

Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds top the list with redesigned fit and strong ANC

February 12, 2026, 10:20 PM EST. CNET reviewer David Carnoy says Sony's WF-1000XM6 earbuds are a complete redesign that shrinks the buds by 11% and overhauls the case. The result is improved fit, a matte finish, and a more aerodynamic shape that aims to cut wind noise. Sound is described as top-tier-well balanced and natural-while ANC and voice calls benefit from eight microphones (four per bud). Battery life is decent, though price remains high at $330. Notable caveats include ear tips that may fit all ears and Android-only spatial audio (surround-sound on compatible devices) features. The reviewer notes AirPods Pro 3 could be a safer pick for some Apple users due to fit and feature parity. Overall, the XM6 lands high in a crowded category.

Spotify says top developers haven't written code since December as AI speeds work

February 12, 2026, 10:18 PM EST. Spotify told analysts on its Q4 earnings call that its best engineers 'have not written a single line of code since December,' a claim tied to AI-assisted development. The company described its internal Honk system, which uses Claude Code for remote, real-time code deployment and bug fixes. Executives cited speed gains from AI and noted more than 50 features shipped in 2025, including AI-powered Prompted Playlists, Page Match for audiobooks and About This Song. They highlighted a unique music-focused dataset used to train models, arguing it cannot be commoditized like other data sources. Spotify also said it will let artists and labels mark how tracks were created via metadata, while policing spam on the platform.

J-PAL launches Project AI Evidence to test and scale AI for poverty reduction

February 12, 2026, 10:16 PM EST. The Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) at MIT funds eight new studies under Project AI Evidence (PAIE) to test how artificial intelligence can fight poverty. PAIE will identify which AI tools work, for whom, and scale only the most effective, inclusive, and responsible solutions. The program links governments, tech firms, nonprofits, MIT economists, and J-PAL researchers to evaluate AI-based approaches to social challenges. Funding comes from Google.org, Community Jameel, Canada's IDRC, and the UK's International Development, plus AWS collaboration and a Schmidt-backed study of generative AI in workplaces in low- and middle-income countries. The research will tackle questions such as AI-assisted teaching, early-warning flood systems, reducing Amazon deforestation, and AI chatbots for health.

Samsung Galaxy S26 trio leaks show colors, sizes ahead of March launch

February 12, 2026, 10:14 PM EST. Leaker Evan Blass publishes official renders of the Samsung Galaxy S26 family in all color options ahead of March launch. The Galaxy S26 base will arrive in Black, White, Cobalt Violet, and Sky Blue. It features a 4,300 mAh battery, a 6.3-inch display, and is expected to use Samsung's 2 nm Exynos 2600 chipset in most regions, with 25W wired charging. The Galaxy S26 Plus mirrors the base in design and colorways but grows to a 6.7-inch panel and a 4,900 mAh battery; charging is described at 45W. The Galaxy S26 Ultra rounds out the trio in the same four colors, with renders showing the prominent rear camera bump. Samsung plans to announce the series this month, with shelves in March.

Google Maps prepping car icon and color picker for Android Auto, says report

February 12, 2026, 10:12 PM EST. Google Maps is preparing to bring its in-app customization to Android Auto, according to an APK teardown reported by Android Authority. The feature, already available on mobile, lets users pick a car avatar from five modern and three traditional designs and apply a color picker. The teardown notes the option appears in Android Auto version 16.2.660604 under Driving avatar, potentially letting users select the icon and color directly on car displays rather than syncing from the phone. Google launched the mobile customization in February 2025, and the icon library has since appeared in Android Auto, but Google has not announced a release date. The option currently remains hidden in the public UI.

Nvidia mulls refreshed Shield TV with AV1, Dolby Vision HDR

February 12, 2026, 10:10 PM EST. Nvidia is reportedly planning a refreshed Shield TV as it weighs updated hardware for its Android TV box. In interviews, Nvidia executive Andrew Bell said the company is exploring new hardware for Shield TV and that a newer model would support modern codecs such as AV1 and high-end HDR including Dolby Vision and HDR10+. Nvidia has previously promised lifetime software support for the Shield family and has shown it won't discontinue current models, even as the product line ages. The Shield TV remains popular among power users and self-hosters, and Nvidia's comments come after years of incremental refreshes, including the 2019 Tegra X1+-powered devices. Bell told Ars Technica (via Pocket-lint) that they discuss the idea often and he would love to see a refreshed box.

Huawei unveils wrist-based diabetes risk assessment via PPG at World Health Expo 2026

February 12, 2026, 10:08 PM EST. Huawei unveiled a wrist-based diabetes risk assessment at World Health Expo 2026 in Dubai. Huawei said the feature analyzes physiological markers over 3 to 14 days using PPG and other onboard sensors, but does not measure blood glucose directly. Huawei says it functions as a screening tool to flag risk and prompt lifestyle changes or medical consultation. It is rolling out to the Watch GT 6 Pro via OTA update, with more models to follow. The company has long baked metabolic tracking into its wearables, including the Watch D line's medical-grade blood pressure monitoring. The Diabetes Risk app evaluates trends and is not a replacement for clinical tests or needle-free continuous glucose monitoring.

Garmin Descent Mk2i discounted $850 at Woot; dive-capable smartwatch targets divers

February 12, 2026, 10:06 PM EST. Garmin's 52mm Descent Mk2i smartwatch, built from titanium and fiber-reinforced polymer, is being discounted by $850 at Woot from a $1,500 list price. The watch doubles as a dive computer, and can monitor shallow and deep dives with air integration and onboard sonar to share stats with nearby divers. The display is a 1.4-inch MIP (memory-in-pixel) screen, and Garmin promises up to 16 days of battery life. It also tracks health metrics, offers built-in workouts with coaching, and provides topographical maps and turn-by-turn navigation. On the wrist you get notifications and Garmin Pay. The discount lowers the barrier for divers seeking extended functionality without sacrificing a rugged smartwatch.

YouTube launches official Vision Pro app, 8K on M5

February 12, 2026, 9:58 PM EST. Apple's Vision Pro now hosts an official YouTube app, letting users watch standard, 180° and 360° videos, plus Shorts, on a theater-sized, immersive screen in visionOS Environments. The standalone app supports subscriptions, playlists and watch history, and works on Vision Pro models with M2 and M5 chips. On M5 devices, YouTube can stream in 8K. Previously, YouTube was reachable only through Safari, and a third-party app named Juno was removed from the App Store for Terms of Service violations. The app is now in the visionOS App Store as the first native YouTube experience on Vision Pro, complementing browser access and broader Apple ecosystem support.

Fact check: Shumer's viral AI disruption warning vs. slower spread to non-coding work

February 12, 2026, 9:52 PM EST. Fact check: A viral X post by AI influencer Matt Shumer warned that knowledge work would be automated within a few years, citing new models like GPT-5.3-Codex and Opus 4.6. The piece notes Fortune published an adapted version and that Shumer casts coders as a canary in the coal mine. The author, who wrote Mastering AI, argues the speed seen in coding is unlikely to repeat across fields soon, even as autonomous coding advances. While improvements in coding are accelerating, applying the same pace to law, finance, medicine or writing remains uncertain and likely slower, by roughly a year or more. The article attributes part of the coding surge to AI firms' focus on code and mentions that the underlying self-written code trend lacks a clear explanation for the lag to other domains.

Insta360 teases Luna vlogging camera with telephoto lens to rival DJI Osmo Pocket

February 12, 2026, 9:50 PM EST. Insta360 teased the Luna, a vlogging camera promising innovations beyond a typical Pocket, as it positions itself against DJI's Osmo Pocket line. The device features two cameras, including a telephoto lens (a longer focal length for distant subjects) that could make it the first pocket-sized camera with telephoto capability if launched before DJI's next-gen Osmo Pocket. Founder JK Liu confirmed the Luna would arrive before the end of June, but offered few specifics. Insta360 did not disclose specs and said more details would come later. The company is pursuing a broader push into compact creator gear, aiming to capitalize on the Osmo Pocket 3 hype and competition from other brands.

Battlefield-inspired VR shooter Forefront heads to PSVR 2 with cross-play

February 12, 2026, 9:46 PM EST. Triangle Factory's Battlefield-inspired VR shooter Forefront is coming to PSVR 2. There's no release date yet, but the studio says the 32-player title will support cross play with other VR platforms when it launches. Forefront, from the team behind Breachers (2023) and Hyper Dash (2021), piles up a familiar battlefield: large, semi-destructible maps, 16v16 matches, and a vehicle menu that lets players pilot helicopters, tanks, humvees and boats while pushing objectives. The game is already in early access on Quest, SteamVR and Pico headsets, and has performed well in the three months since its debut. A wishlist on the PlayStation Store for PSVR 2 is available while players wait for an official release date.

IBM to triple entry-level hiring in the AI era, reshaping early roles

February 12, 2026, 9:42 PM EST. IBM plans to triple its entry-level hiring in the U.S. in 2026, a move reported by Bloomberg. Nickle LaMoreaux, IBM's chief HR officer, announced the plan at Charter's Leading with AI Summit. She said the roles will be reshaped to emphasize people-forward tasks-areas like customer engagement rather than coding-so new hires can build skills for higher-level posts. IBM did not disclose headcount. MIT's 2025 study estimated about 11.7% of jobs could be automated by AI, underscoring ongoing disruption. A TechCrunch survey of investors suggests 2026 will begin to reveal AI's impact on the labor market, even as respondents were not asked specifically about labor.

Last chance to grab Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection on PS5/PS4 before delisting

February 12, 2026, 9:38 PM EST. Limited Run Games will delist the Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection on March 31, about two years after its release, likely due to license expiration. The publisher says on the collection's Steam page that it has learned the importance of providing notice and will be as open and transparent as possible. If you already purchased the game, it will remain downloadable in perpetuity. The bundle is currently discounted to $5.99/£4.99 across PS Plus tiers, offering a last chance to buy. The package includes seven games-the NES, Game Boy, SNES, and Genesis versions of the original Jurassic Park titles, plus Rampage Edition, and the SNES/Game Boy versions of Jurassic Park 2. It adds quality-of-life features like save states and rewinds. Will you add it to your PS5/PS4 collection?

DJI RS 5 Review: Refined power, smarter tracking for run-and-gun creators

February 12, 2026, 9:28 PM EST. DJI's RS 5 is an evolution, not a rewrite. The gimbal keeps the RS silhouette but adds micro fine-tune knobs on every axis, a magnetic removable camera module for improved ActiveTrack, and a Z-axis indicator to flag potential stability issues. The 5th-gen stabilization algorithm delivers a 50% boost in peak motor torque, helping fast moves and vertical shoots. 2nd-gen automated axis locks simplify setup, and the system slots into DJI's ecosystem with SDR Transmission and Focus Pro for wireless monitoring and follow focus. The Electronic Briefcase Handle offers built-in controls for low-angle work, though some mounts can block the battery release lever. Expect up to 14 hours of runtime.

Samsung's AI push for Galaxy S26 risks muted demand, analysts warn

February 12, 2026, 9:24 PM EST. Samsung previews a Galaxy S26 built around AI, framing intelligence as adaptive to users. Analysts question whether that focus will move the needle for buyers. Across the market, consumers reward tangible upgrades-display quality, battery life and cameras-more than on-device intelligence, making a strong AI story hard to monetize. By contrast, rivals such as Apple have benefited from solid hardware and select software features, while public interest in Apple Intelligence remains limited. The Galaxy S26 will ship with One UI 8.5 and Galaxy AI features, but history suggests AI alone rarely drives sales. If the emphasis persists, Samsung could miss a broader upgrade cycle and face a muted reception, even as foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 demonstrate demand for hardware gains.

Investing $1,000 in Nvidia five years ago would be worth about $12,810 today

February 12, 2026, 9:22 PM EST. Nvidia has led the AI-chip rally, delivering a five-year total return that dwarfs the S&P 500. Data show the stock rose about 1,180% over five years, turning a $1,000 stake into roughly $12,810 by February 2026. Revenue in the fiscal Q3 2026 (year ended Oct. 26) rose 62% from a year earlier and was more than 1,100% higher than the same quarter in fiscal 2021, lifting the company to a roughly $4.6 trillion market cap. Some investors worry about an AI bubble, but the shares trade at a forward P/E around 24.7. Stock Advisor notes Nvidia remains a high-conviction idea, while its top-ten list includes differing views.

OpenAI sidesteps Nvidia with fast Codex-Spark on wafer-scale Cerebras chip

February 12, 2026, 9:20 PM EST. OpenAI's Codex-Spark runs on Cerebras Wafer Scale Engine 3, signaling a hardware pivot away from Nvidia as latency becomes a defining factor for AI coding agents. In tests, it delivered about 1,000 tokens per second, while Cerebras benchmarks report higher speeds on other models-Llama 3.1 70B at 2,100 tps and a claim of 3,000 tps on OpenAI's gpt-oss-120B. The move fits OpenAI's drive to diversify suppliers after big AMD cloud deals, a new TSMC-related chip project, and a cooled-off Nvidia infrastructure plan. Regardless of chip, speed matters for developers who code inside editors. The industry watches whether speed comes at accuracy, and how this reshapes vendor leverage in inference workloads.

Apple slides on Siri delay, FTC scrutiny; stock worst day since April 2025

February 12, 2026, 9:14 PM EST. Apple shares tumbled on Thursday, the steepest drop since April 2025, as regulatory pressure and a reported delay to a major Siri AI update weighed on sentiment. The stock slid about 5%, erasing this year's gains and leaving the year-to-date move in the red. Bloomberg reported the AI refresh for the personal assistant has been internally pushed back to May and could roll out gradually through 2026. Apple told CNBC it remains on track to launch in 2026. The centerpiece of the downturn also included a letter from FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson asking Tim Cook to review Apple News terms of service and curation after accusations of bias toward left-leaning outlets. UBS's downgrade of tech stocks to neutral also buoyed caution.

Apple preparing to discontinue four products ahead of new launches

February 12, 2026, 9:10 PM EST. Apple appears to be winding down four products ahead of new models. iPhone 16e inventory has dried up, as iPhone 17e nears launch. The M3 iPad Air also shows shortages, with a M4 iPad Air in development and expected soon. The Apple Studio Display is due for a refresh, with current stock dwindling and shipments slated for late February or early March. Finally, the MacBook Pro lineup, currently offered with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips, is expected to shift to M5 Pro/Max as a launch could arrive as early as the week of March 2. Bloomberg and Gurman cite imminent product changes; Apple has not specified timelines.

Vulcan to launch USSF-87; SpaceX to launch Crew-12 to ISS

February 12, 2026, 9:04 PM EST. Two high-profile launches are on the schedule. A United Launch Alliance Vulcan Centaur rocket is planned to lift off with USSF-87, a satellite for the U.S. Space Force. Separately, SpaceX aims to send Crew-12 astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) under NASA's Commercial Crew Program. The preview comes from NASASpaceFlight.com and highlights the roles of commercial partners in U.S. space operations. Officials have not disclosed delays; both missions are positioned to advance national security and international research links, with launch windows depending on weather and range readiness. Reporters will monitor updates and cadence changes as timelines firm up.

Bill Ackman bets $2 billion on Meta AI pivot as Pershing Square doubles down

February 12, 2026, 8:56 PM EST. Bill Ackman's Pershing Square has added about $2 billion to Meta Platforms, roughly 10% of its portfolio, per The Wall Street Journal. The stake underlines Ackman's bet on Mark Zuckerberg's AI pivot rather than Meta's prior metaverse push. Ackman began buying Meta last November around $625 a share; the stock trades near $670, delivering an early gain. Critics point to Reality Labs losses and Meta's heavy 2020-2025 AI investments, including front-loaded data centers and talent. Meta projects $115 billion to $135 billion in 2026, underscoring a push to scale AI infrastructure. Pershing Square also holds positions in Uber and Amazon and recently exited its Hilton stake. The move positions Ackman as a notable voice in the evolving tech economy.

Ackman bets $2B on Meta AI pivot as Pershing Square ramps up stake

February 12, 2026, 8:54 PM EST. Bill Ackman's Pershing Square disclosed a fresh $2 billion stake in Meta Platforms, a move described by The Wall Street Journal as a public bet on Mark Zuckerberg's shift from the Metaverse to AI integration. The purchase amounts to about 10% of Pershing Square's portfolio. It follows Pershing Square's previous Meta entry around $625 a share last November and comes as Meta fronts heavy capital expenditure to build AI infrastructure and data centers. Meta aims to embed superintelligence into daily life via AI-powered wearables, even as Reality Labs remains a loss-maker and Meta trimmed the unit's workforce. The company projects 2026 AI-related capex of $115-135 billion. Ackman also holds positions in Uber and Amazon, and exited Hilton.

Ackman bets $2 billion on Meta's AI pivot as Pershing Square expands Meta stake

February 12, 2026, 8:52 PM EST. Bill Ackman's Pershing Square has disclosed a fresh $2 billion investment in Meta Platforms, roughly 10% of its portfolio, signaling trust in Mark Zuckerberg's pivot from the Metaverse to AI. The Wall Street Journal reported the commitment. Pershing Square began buying Meta in November at about $625 a share; the stock sits around $670, giving Ackman an early gain. Meta faces heavy AI-capital expenditure and aims to front-load data centers and talent. Reality Labs losses total about $83 billion since 2020, and about 1,500 workers were cut from that unit last month. Meta plans to spend $115-135 billion in 2026 on AI infrastructure, underscoring a shift toward AI-powered devices and services. Ackman also holds positions in Uber and Amazon; his firm recently exited Hilton.

FTC chief presses Apple over alleged bias in Apple News feed

February 12, 2026, 8:50 PM EST. New York – FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson wrote to Apple CEO Tim Cook criticizing the company for allegedly suppressing conservative outlets in the Apple News feed. He said the FTC is not the 'speech police' but can act to protect consumers from material misrepresentations or omissions, and urged Apple to review the sources used in News and take corrective action if needed. Apple did not immediately comment. Ferguson's note responds to a Media Research Center report saying none of 620 top January stories came from conservative outlets, with most stories from outlets such as The Associated Press, NBC News, The New York Times, and The Washington Post. Missing conservatives cited include Fox News, the New York Post, Daily Wire, and Breitbart. Cook has faced criticism from the Trump administration despite attending the inauguration last year.

ICE expansion, Palantir concerns, and OpenClaw AI featured in WIRED's Uncanny Valley

February 12, 2026, 8:48 PM EST. WIRED's 'Uncanny Valley' episode surveys ICE's plan to expand across most states, reported in a major scoop. The hosts discuss the implications for immigration enforcement and the geographic rollout. The show then scrutinizes Palantir CEO Alex Karp's lengthy non-response to employees raising ethical concerns about collaborating with ICE, highlighting the tension between contracts and ethics. Finally, a WIRED writer experiments with the viral OpenClaw AI assistant for a week, offering a practical glimpse of what AI agents can and cannot do. Related articles provide context on the expansion path, employee concerns, and the limits of AI in real life.

Uncanny Valley: ICE expansion, Palantir ethics, and AI assistants

February 12, 2026, 8:46 PM EST. The week's episode reviews ICE's plan to expand to nearly every state, a move with broad enforcement implications. It also examines Palantir CEO Alex Karp's nearly hour-long response to employees raising ethics concerns about collaborating with ICE. A WIRED writer then lets the viral OpenClaw AI assistant run his life for a week, offering a concrete look at what AI agents can and cannot do in practice. The hosts frame the debate around privacy, oversight, and corporate strategy, while noting the limits of automation in sensitive domains. The show links to related WIRED reporting for readers who want more context.

Hyperscalers' 2026 AI capex set to jump 70% to $600 billion, prompting ways to play the boom

February 12, 2026, 8:44 PM EST. Amazon, Alphabet, Meta and Microsoft, the top hyperscalers, expect more than $600 billion in capex this year, up about 70% from 2025. The surge follows roughly $350 billion in 2025 as AI-related infrastructure expands. Traders weighed returns as shares moved unevenly: Amazon and Microsoft down double digits, Alphabet roughly flat, Meta modestly higher. Analysts say being early could be a competitive advantage, even if monetization remains unclear in the near term. Investors warned against lacking guardrails, arguing some firms may overspend. The focus shifts to pick-and-shovel infrastructure stocks that enable AI growth. Names like CoreWeave were highlighted as potential beneficiaries, though the timing of meaningful profit remains uncertain.

Top hyperscalers lift 2026 AI capex to $600 billion, a 70% surge

February 12, 2026, 8:36 PM EST. Top hyperscalers-Amazon, Alphabet, Meta and Microsoft-are set to lift 2026 AI capex to about $600 billion, roughly 70% higher than 2025's level. The surge underscores a shift from early-stage investment to scale, even as the timing of returns remains uncertain. In 2025 these four spent just over $350 billion, and earnings updates show mixed investor reactions: Amazon (-12% year-to-date) and Microsoft (-16%), Alphabet modestly lower, Meta higher by about 1%. Analysts warn the gains may take time to materialize, while some see a plateau in spending later this year. Strategists point to pick-and-shovel plays-lagging-edge infrastructure providers like CoreWeave-as the likely beneficiaries of the AI wave. Investors are advised to balance exposure with valuation and timing.

Hyperscalers set 2026 AI capex to surge 70% to $600 billion

February 12, 2026, 8:34 PM EST. Top hyperscalers are accelerating AI capital expenditure. In 2026, Amazon, Alphabet, Meta and Microsoft forecast combined capex above $600 billion, up from just over $350 billion in 2025. Traders greeted the burst with mixed signals: Amazon and Microsoft shares down about 12% and 16% respectively, Alphabet little changed, Meta modestly higher. Management argues the move is early and strategic, a competitive edge rather than a near-term profit trigger. Some analysts warn the spending could pause or slow later, while others see a new, long-lasting cycle. Beneficiaries may include pick-and-shovel infrastructure names such as CoreWeave, which provides cloud-based AI infrastructure. Investors are weighing timing, monetization and the durability of the AI spending boom.

Mustafa Suleyman plots AI self-sufficiency as Microsoft loosens OpenAI ties

February 12, 2026, 8:30 PM EST. Mustafa Suleyman, co-founder of Inflection AI, is pushing for AI self-sufficiency-building systems that run with less dependence on external models and cloud platforms. The development mirrors a broader shift as Microsoft signals a looser tie to OpenAI, the partner and investor that helped accelerate Inflection's early growth. Analysts say the move could drive a wave of independent, enterprise-ready AI that can operate with reduced API reliance and on-prem or hybrid compute. If realized, the approach would reshape pricing, partnerships and deployment strategies across sectors such as healthcare and finance. Microsoft has indicated it will diversify its AI ecosystem, backing multiple builders alongside OpenAI.

Mustafa Suleyman plots AI self-sufficiency as Microsoft loosens OpenAI ties

February 12, 2026, 8:28 PM EST. Mustafa Suleyman, co-founder of Inflection AI, is pushing for AI self-sufficiency-systems that operate with less cloud dependence and external data. The move aligns with a broader shift as Microsoft appears to loosen ties with OpenAI, potentially altering rivalries and partnerships in the sector. People familiar with the matter say Inflection is pursuing capabilities to train, run and update models with reduced vendor lock-in, aiming for lower latency and greater autonomy. The strategy could reshape how large language models are deployed, affecting safety debates, pricing, and access. Both Inflection and Microsoft declined to comment.

Samsung HBM4 ships to NVIDIA Vera Rubin, touting industry's fastest AI memory

February 12, 2026, 8:22 PM EST. Samsung says its HBM4 memory is commercially shipped using the 6th-generation 1c DRAM and a 4nm logic die, all sourced in-house, and is designed to pair with NVIDIA's Vera Rubin AI architecture. The memory hits up to 13 Gbps after overclocking, with the base pin speed around 11.7 Gbps-claims that meet a key qualification for NVIDIA. Samsung notes current shipments use a 12-layer stack, with a 16-layer variant in development that would raise per-module capacity to 48 GB. The deployment marks a shift in the HBM market, where Samsung, SK hynix, and Micron compete. Samsung also projects HBM revenue tripling in 2026 vs 2025 and plans HBM4E for H2 2026. NVIDIA's focus remains low latency for Vera Rubin.

Samsung's HBM4 ships commercially, powering NVIDIA's Vera Rubin AI memory with fastest speeds

February 12, 2026, 8:20 PM EST. Samsung says its HBM4 memory is commercially shipping as part of a 6th-generation 1c DRAM with a 4nm logic die. The stack is rated up to 13 Gbps after overclocking, with base speeds of 11.7 Gbps-about 46% faster than 8 Gbps modules. Current designs use 12-layer configurations; Samsung is developing a 16-layer variant that would reach 48 GB per module. The only disclosed customer so far is NVIDIA's Vera Rubin AI architecture, with memory framed as key to achieving low latency and higher throughput. Samsung forecasts triple HBM revenue this year versus 2025 and plans HBM4E in H2 2026. Market dynamics continue to shift among SK hynix, Samsung, and Micron as adoption accelerates.

Opinion Video: Is AI Coming for Your Job? Anthropic CEO Warns of Rapid Change

February 12, 2026, 8:18 PM EST. New video presents an opinion on whether AI will threaten jobs. It quotes Anthropic chief executive Dario Amodei, who says artificial intelligence will transform our world faster than any prior revolution. The piece is produced by Interesting Times and dated February 12, 2026. The brief feature frames the debate around work displacement and productivity, offering a brisk look at potential shifts for workers and firms. It emphasizes speed of change and urges preparation rather than alarm, highlighting the need for policy, education, and business adaptation as AI tools proliferate. The format blends opinion with a journalist's framing to spark discussion about near-term implications.

Video Opinion: Is A.I. Coming for Your Job?

February 12, 2026, 8:08 PM EST. A new video from Interesting Times features Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, who argues AI will change the world faster than any prior disruption. The clip, titled 'Is A.I. Coming for Your Job?', frames the pace of change as outsized compared with past revolutions and highlights implications for workers. Published February 12, 2026, the piece adds to the global debate on whether AI will erode or reshape jobs and how policy and business should respond.

Google advances AI agents with WebMCP protocol

February 12, 2026, 8:04 PM EST. Google unveiled WebMCP, a protocol to let websites expose structured actions for AI agents to perform tasks such as flight bookings, ecommerce checkout flows, and product searches. In early preview, developers can test the feature before a full launch. A Google engineer said the goal is a standard that gives agents a direct channel to interact with sites, reducing ambiguity and speeding up workflows. Unlike current behavior that mimics human navigation, WebMCP defines predefined tools that guide actions. The move mirrors similar work from Anthropic and others and is designed to be interoperable with existing stacks. Firms are likely to support multiple standards, but fragmentation could emerge as the web shifts toward an agent-driven future.

Apple TV to stream F1 in U.S. under exclusive 2026-2030 deal

February 12, 2026, 8:02 PM EST. Apple has secured exclusive U.S. rights to broadcast Formula 1 from 2026-2030. Under the arrangement, Apple TV subscribers can watch every practice, qualifying, sprint and Grand Prix via the F1TV app by linking their Apple ID. People with an existing F1TV subscription may see a duplicate active plan after signing in through Apple, labeled Official U.S. broadcaster of Formula 1; officials advise canceling the duplicate in the F1TV app. New users should create an F1TV account and activate it with their Apple login. Those who don't pay for Apple TV can still view select races and practice sessions. Apple has not yet detailed which content sits in the Apple TV app versus the F1TV app. The season opens March 7 in Australia; preseason testing is underway in Bahrain via F1TV.

Apple rolls out new beta firmware for AirPods Pro 3, Pro 2 and AirPods 4

February 12, 2026, 7:58 PM EST. Apple has released a new developer beta firmware, build 8B5034f, for three AirPods models: AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4. The update follows last year's beta activity; public releases currently sit at 8B34 for Pro 3, 8B28 for Pro 2, and 8B21 for AirPods 4. As with other AirPods betas, there is no manual trigger to install; users must opt in from the Settings app and let the update download in the background. If you haven't tested AirPods beta firmware before, enable it in the AirPods settings. Apple occasionally handles beta releases differently across models.

AI uncovers Erdős problem solutions, reshaping mathematical research

February 12, 2026, 7:54 PM EST. Columbia mathematician Mehtaab Sawhney turned to erdosproblems.com and, using ChatGPT as a literature checker, prompted LLMs to locate references to a stubborn Erdős problems. He teamed with Mark Sellke to push the tool to retrieve lost solutions and partial results for several problems. Since October, Terence Tao's page notes about 100 Erdős problems moved to the solved column. Most work comes from enhanced literature searches; in some cases, LLMs stitch together existing theorems to draft new or improved results, and in at least two cases they produced an original, valid proof with minimal human input. MIT's Andrew Sutherland calls these tools useful research assistants, though cautions persist about errors that require expert vetting. AI is still nowhere near solving major open problems in math.

Quantum computing nears inflection point as roadmaps converge across industry

February 12, 2026, 7:50 PM EST. Ten years after cloud-based quantum devices appeared, the field stands at an inflection point. Progress has matured from speculative forecasts to project management, as major players publish roadmaps across qubit modalities. IBM popularized this practice in 2020, and the trend has spread industry-wide. The latest projections suggest converging timelines, not a competition to crown a winner, but a mosaic of shared conviction. A compiled reference pulls together diverse plans into a single view, highlighting how hardware approaches differ yet timelines align. The result is a clearer forecast for Quantum Computing's near-term milestones, grounded in concrete plans rather than crystal-ball speculation.

AI companions dine out: New York bar hosts real-life date with virtual partners

February 12, 2026, 7:46 PM EST. An NYC bar in Hell's Kitchen hosted a first-of-its-kind real-life event for patrons using AI companions. The EvaAI-powered cafe, Same Same Wine Bar, invited guests to bring tablets or phones and video-call their virtual partners at tables for one. One attendee, a 34-year-old New York woman identified as Richter, spoke with Simone, an AI character, and described using EvaAI for companionship and occasional romance. She limits use to about three hours a day, warning it can be addictive and pull focus from human interaction. Julia Momblat, EvaAI's partnerships head, said the night aimed to destigmatize AI relationships and make them more understandable. The event drew media, influencers, and curious tech enthusiasts.

Samsung Galaxy Watch lineup discounted on Woot, including Ultra 2025, Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic

February 12, 2026, 7:40 PM EST. Deals from Woot.com, an Amazon-owned outlet, cover the Galaxy Watch lineup as international versions. They're not backed by Samsung's full warranty, but come with a 90-day Woot warranty. The sale includes the Galaxy Watch 8 (44mm LTE) with a 50% brighter display, Armor Aluminum body, sapphire crystal, and up to 40 hours of battery. Specs include the Exynos W1000, 2GB RAM, 32GB storage; features cover HR sensor, ECG, SpO2, barometer and compass. The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic keeps a traditional look with stainless steel, a rotating bezel, 64GB storage, and about a day-and-a-half battery. The Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) is discounted to $299.99 from $649.99. Woot notes these are international versions; warranties align with Woot's policy only.

Epic's AI charting tool tests doctor-patient focus in Madison

February 12, 2026, 7:38 PM EST. MADISON, Wisconsin – Doctors are testing an AI-powered charting tool from Epic Systems that records and transcribes patient visits to help with note-taking. Dr. Matthew Swedlund of Group Health Cooperative is the first clinician to use the tool. He says it helps shift attention from the computer to the patient, while he still seeks patient consent before recording on his phone. In simulated visits, the transcription produced a comprehensive summary, allowing him to engage more directly with patients. Skeptics warn of potential mistakes, but Swedlund notes clinicians can review and finalize notes before signing. Privacy is safeguarded by storing data within its charting system rather than cloud-only access. Adoption remains cautious as providers weigh benefits against risks.

Re-Assessing the Benefits and Risks of Quantum Computers

February 12, 2026, 7:34 PM EST. Researchers and policymakers reexamined the potential of quantum computing in a paper published January last year by a coalition of scholars. The study defines economically-impactful quantum computing as capabilities that advance commerce and private industry, and cryptographically-relevant quantum computing as those able to break current cryptography. It seeks to bridge results from quantum science with policy and cybersecurity needs amid a fast-moving field. The authors identify four levers accelerating progress: (1) new kinds of quantum algorithms, (2) error mitigation techniques that let noisy devices imitate less-noiseful ones, (3) problem partitioning methods to tackle larger tasks, and (4) growing interest from the private sector in commercially-relevant use cases. The paper aims to inform risk assessment and strategic planning for a post-quantum world.

Samsung reportedly drops a smaller Tab S12; four mid-size tablets to consider, led by Galaxy Tab A11+

February 12, 2026, 7:28 PM EST. Samsung may skip a smaller Tab S12, narrowing the field of an iPad rival. The piece cites Smartprix leaks that there is no compact Tab S12 Plus or Ultra in the works. In response, the author highlights four other mid-size tablets to consider. The first is Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+, a budget tablet that recently debuted in the US at $249.99. It features an 11-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 1200×1920. Specs are middling, but the size aids portability; it isn't as impressive as premium slates. The list suggests other mid-size options beyond Samsung for those who want a device big enough for work or media, without the heft of a premium tablet.

iPhone Lockdown Mode blocks FBI access in Natanson case

February 12, 2026, 7:26 PM EST. Apple's Lockdown Mode-an optional, extreme security feature-stopped federal agents from extracting data from the iPhone of the Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson. Authorities seized the device during a probe into a Pentagon contractor, but the FBI said its analysts could not extract data because the phone was in Lockdown Mode. Apple describes the feature as designed for a rare set of individuals at risk of sophisticated cyberattacks, with strict limits on apps, features and browser technologies. The mode is available on iOS 16 and macOS Ventura and must be turned on per device via Settings > Privacy and Security (iPhone) or System Settings (Mac). Apple notes it does not support a government backdoor and has previously rejected such requests. In practice, passcodes remain central to access control, not biometrics.

Is Micron Technology Stock the Next Nvidia?

February 12, 2026, 7:24 PM EST. Micron Technology has surged as AI demand lifts its memory hardware, but investors wonder how long the rally can extend. Nvidia remains the market's dominant AI accelerator, with GPUs powering large language models and record revenue. Micron, up about 317% in the past year, benefits from demand for high-bandwidth memory in AI data centers and cloud services. In Nvidia's latest quarter, revenue rose about 62% and gross margin was 73.4%, while Micron's revenue rose roughly 57% with a margin near 57%. Some catalysts could narrow the gap, notably Micron's focus on AI memory and price discipline. CNBC cites a memory-chip shortage that could persist through 2027, supporting pricing. Micron is ramping up production to capture the windfall, but the question remains: how long will the momentum last?

Apple readies a new MacBook, addressing 2015 model flaws and aiming for accessibility

February 12, 2026, 7:12 PM EST. Apple is reportedly reviving the MacBook with a focus on accessibility rather than a radical reinvention. The last 12-inch MacBook, launched in 2015 as the Notebook Reinvented, drew praise for its design but was crippled by a fragile butterfly keyboard, a weak Intel Core M chip, a single USB-C port, and weak battery life, all at a premium price. The revived model is expected to use Apple silicon and offer better battery life and multiple USB-C ports or MagSafe charging. Rumors place the device in the 12.9-inch class, with a price around $699, well below the MacBook Air. Apple's aim appears to be attracting iPhone users or PC switchers, rather than delivering a premium ultrabook. Official details remain unconfirmed, but the direction points to a more accessible MacBook.

Chrome for Android rolls out pinned tabs with Chrome 144

February 12, 2026, 7:04 PM EST. Google is widening the rollout of pinned tabs in Chrome for Android, following the December reveal. With Chrome 144, long-press a tab in the grid to pick Pin tab above Close tab; the page moves to the front and the close icon becomes a pin to deter accidental closes. Swiping to close from the grid is disabled. A docked carousel of pinned tabs appears when you're not at the top of the grid; it shows favicons and page names, scrollable and tappable to open. You can Unpin tab with another long-press. The update brings Android in line with the desktop browser, and Google says the broader rollout is underway.

Chrome for Android expands pinned tabs rollout with docked carousel

February 12, 2026, 7:02 PM EST. Google is broadly rolling out pinned tabs in Chrome for Android, following a December preview. In the tab grid, long-press a card to select Pin tab, which moves the page to the front and replaces the close button with a pin. You can't swipe to close from the grid. A new docked carousel of pinned tabs-showing favicons and page names-appears when you're not at the top of the grid; tapping a pinned item opens it. Unpinning requires another long-press. The update, delivered with Chrome 144, brings mobile behavior in line with the desktop browser.

NVIDIA Blackwell cuts token costs 10x with extreme codesign and GB200 NVL72

February 12, 2026, 6:56 PM EST. NVIDIA says Blackwell delivers a tenfold reduction in token costs versus Hopper. In a blog post, the company notes inference providers such as Baseten, DeepInfra, Fireworks AI and Together AI are deploying Blackwell to slash cost per token. Gains come from an extreme codesign of hardware and software and optimizations for frontier models that improve token streaming across GPUs. The GB200 NVL72 is a 72-chip system with about 30TB of fast shared memory to drive expert-level parallelism, distributing token batches and raising inter-GPU communication nonlinearly. NVIDIA cites Sentient Labs achieving 25-50% better cost efficiency than Hopper in multi-agent workloads. The push centers on Vera Rubin-era infrastructure, with architecture choices like CPX for prefill and other refinements.

NVIDIA's Blackwell hits 10x token-cost reduction via extreme codesign on GB200 NVL72

February 12, 2026, 6:54 PM EST. NVIDIA says its Blackwell platform delivers a tenfold drop in token costs versus the previous Hopper generation, enabled by an extreme codesign approach and advanced MoE architectures. The GB200 NVL72 configuration pairs a 72-chip layout with 30 TB of fast shared memory to shard token batches across GPUs, boosting parallelism and reducing latency for frontier AI models. In tests with partners like Baseten, DeepInfra, Fireworks AI and Together AI, token costs dropped up to 10x as companies run open-source frontier models on Blackwell. Sentient Labs reports 25-50% better cost efficiency than Hopper in multi-agent workflows. NVIDIA frames this as hardware-software co-design driven progress, with Vera Rubin and Team Green aiming to push infrastructure efficiency further through CPX prefill and related innovations.

Best Buy cuts $80 on Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus Kids Edition in Presidents' Day sale

February 12, 2026, 6:52 PM EST. Best Buy's Presidents' Day sale trims $80 from the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus Kids Edition. The 11-inch tablet arrives with a durable plastic cover in four colors and Samsung Kids OS for parental controls. It includes 64GB of storage, expandable microSD up to 1TB, and a long-lasting battery for games, video and drawing. Three Crayo-Pen styluses come with colored caps (red, yellow, blue) stored in the case. The deal drops the price to about $200 from $280, making it a budget option for families. The tablet targets parents seeking durability and built-in controls at a low price.

Best Buy's Presidents' Day sale cuts price of Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus Kids Edition by $80

February 12, 2026, 6:50 PM EST. Best Buy's Presidents' Day Sale slashes $80 from the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus Kids Edition, bringing the price to $200. The 11-inch tablet emphasizes durability with a kid-friendly cover offered in four colors and includes a built-in kickstand and a Crayo-Pen stylus trio, plus color-coded stylus caps. It ships with 64GB of storage, expandable via microSD up to 1TB, and runs Samsung Kids OS, which offers parental controls suited for families. The entry-level tablet targets younger users who need basic gaming, video, and drawing apps, a hardy build, and long battery life. The deal makes the device competitive for under-$200 kid tablets, though buyers needing more than 64GB or a larger screen may want alternatives. Available now at Best Buy, while supplies last.

TSMC Could Outpace Nvidia in 2026 as AI Foundry Demand Rises

February 12, 2026, 6:48 PM EST. Nvidia has led the AI revolution for years, but its stock has cooled amid lofty valuations and questions about data-center AI spend. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) has strengthened its role as the AI chip ecosystem's backbone, manufacturing chips for Nvidia and others. Nvidia is a fabless designer; TSMC's advanced nodes turn those designs into production. TSMC expects about 30% revenue growth in 2026, helped by higher prices for top-node processes and expanded capacity. If sales reach roughly $159 billion and the stock trades near 15x sales, TSMC could be valued around $2.4 trillion, versus Nvidia at about 24x sales. The result: TSMC's growth and scale may position it to outperform Nvidia in 2026, even as both ride the AI boom.

TSMC could outpace Nvidia in 2026, analysts say

February 12, 2026, 6:46 PM EST. Analysts say TSMC could outpace Nvidia in 2026 as the AI chip cycle widens beyond the fabless model. Nvidia remains central to the AI revolution, but valuations, data-center spending sustainability, and growth durability are under scrutiny. TSMC sits at the center of the AI chip boom by manufacturing chips for Nvidia and others, including Broadcom, AMD, Qualcomm and Apple. The company projects roughly 30% revenue growth in 2026 to about $159 billion. If it trades at 15x sales, that implies a market cap near $2.4 trillion. Nvidia, by contrast, trades at around 24x sales, reflecting faster growth but a richer multiple and more aggressive expectations.

Apple Vision Pro finally gets official YouTube app

February 12, 2026, 6:44 PM EST. Apple on Tuesday released an official YouTube app for its Vision Pro, two years after the headset's launch. The app supports standard videos and 3D, 360 and VR180 content, with 8K playback on the Vision Pro's M5 chip. Previously, users relied on the workaround Juno, a third-party app that Apple removed in October 2024. The delay highlights the scarcity of native apps for many services on visionOS, with Netflix and others still accessible mainly through Safari or third-party tools. Apple has long said a YouTube app was on the roadmap, but providers face limited incentives to build native Vision Pro apps given the device's niche appeal.

Apple Vision Pro finally gets official YouTube app after two years

February 12, 2026, 6:42 PM EST. Apple on Thursday released an official YouTube app for its Vision Pro headset, more than two years after the spatial computer first shipped. The app lets users watch standard YouTube videos as well as 3D, 360 and VR180 content, with 8K playback limited to the M5 version. Previously, Vision Pro users depended on a workaround via the Juno app, which Apple removed in October 2024. The timing underscores how few mainstream services have built native visionOS apps for the device, with Netflix remaining accessible only through Safari. Apple and others have argued the device remains niche, dampening incentives for major services. Third-party options such as Supercut exist but can cost extra; a native YouTube app, while welcome, does not by itself propel the XR push Apple envisioned.

Stop Live Activities Auto-Launch on Apple Watch: A Quick Fix

February 12, 2026, 6:36 PM EST. watchOS 26's Smart Stack can surface Live Activities automatically. The result: media controls or timers pop up over your Apple Watch face. To reclaim control, open Settings on your Apple Watch, tap Smart Stack, choose Live Activities, and toggle off Auto-Launch Live Activities. After that, Live Activities stay accessible in the Smart Stack but won't pop up until you scroll. For finer control, use the Watch app on your iPhone to pick which apps show Live Activities, including third-party options. If the annoyance is only persistent media controls, disable Live Activities for Media Apps or flip Auto-Launch to Off or Smart Stack for a quieter watch face.

Sony WF-1000XM6 review: sixth-generation ANC earbuds push sound and features

February 12, 2026, 6:26 PM EST. Sony presses on with its sixth-generation true wireless earbuds, promising improved sound quality and refined features. The WF-1000XM6 sit in a competitive field that includes Bose, Apple and Technics, with broader market competition. Pricing varies by region: UK £250 / US $330 / AU $500, versus the XM5 at launch (£259 / $299 / AU$419). In the US and Australia, the XM6 are pricier than Bose's QC Ultra Earbuds II Gen; in the UK they're cheaper than Bose. Technics EAH-AZ100 remains a rival at £259 / $299 / AU$499. Sony's design tweaks include a bulkier charging case and subtle styling, with the case evoking the XM3. Specs include Bluetooth 5.3, codecs LDAC, SBC and AAC, and an 8-hour battery life with ANC, 24 hours with the case. No immediate discounts expected.

Sony WF-1000XM6: Updated sound tuning and stronger ANC

February 12, 2026, 6:24 PM EST. The Sony WF-1000XM6 wireless earbuds launch after a two-year gap, replacing the XM5 as Sony's flagship. They upgrade to a 32-bit Integrated Processor V2, with claimed improvements in clarity and dynamic range. Eight-point four millimeter drivers pair with custom tuning from Sony's engineers and affiliated studios, supporting AAC, SBC, LC3, LDAC and DSEE Extreme. An updated 10-band EQ is in the Sony Sound Connect app. Connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.3 LE, Auracast, Fast Pair and Swift Pair, plus 360 Reality Audio with head tracking. A new QN3e noise-cancelling chip boosts mid-to-high noise reduction by about 25%, aided by two extra outward mics. Adaptive ANC optimizes output in real time. Battery runs 8 hours; case adds 16 hours; IPX4; $330; colors silver and black.

IonQ Leads Quantum Stocks With Trapped-Ion Advantage and High Fidelity

February 12, 2026, 6:22 PM EST. IonQ is positioned as a leading quantum stock thanks to two core strengths: trapped-ion hardware and lower error rates. Unlike superconducting systems used by IBM and Google, IonQ's trapped-ion qubits use lasers to suspend ions, enabling operation at room temperature and a smaller footprint, reducing power and cooling needs. The result: higher gate fidelity-up to 99.99% on two-qubit systems-versus many peers. The company offers four systems (Aria, Forte, Forte Enterprise, Tempo) and a cloud-based service, supporting a growth trajectory analysts see with revenue near $317 million by 2028. Fortune Business Insights pegs quantum market CAGR at 34.8% from 2025 to 2032, implying room to grow; IonQ currently trades around 38x expected 2027 sales, signaling a high-growth but costly risk.

AWS CEO Garman says software AI fears are overblown

February 12, 2026, 6:18 PM EST. Amazon Web Services chief Matt Garman told CNBC that fears about AI slowing software growth are largely overblown. He argued the sell-off in SaaS stocks has been an overreaction even as AI models from OpenAI and others fuel volatility. AWS said its cloud revenue rose about 24% in the fourth quarter to $35.6 billion, with a 35% operating margin, underscoring continued demand for compute and infrastructure. Analysts have labeled the market swing a SaaS apocalypse, but Databricks' CEO and others say core metrics haven't deteriorated. Garman stressed that customers will consume more compute, whether on-prem, on top of AI, or via SaaS vendors, and warned against standing still against disruption.

Late-night ULA Vulcan liftoff may light up Florida skies ahead of Valentine's Day

February 12, 2026, 6:14 PM EST. U.S. Space Force and United Launch Alliance plan a late-night Vulcan rocket launch from Cape Canaveral that could be visible across much of Florida, weather permitting. The four solid rocket boosters and twin methane engines generate about 3 million pounds of thrust as the rocket arcs eastward toward a 22,000-mile geosynchronous orbit. Launch is scheduled for 3:30 a.m. EST Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, with a two-hour window. If skies clear, residents from Jacksonville to Miami, including Daytona Beach, the Space Coast, and parts of the Bahamas, could see a bright flash in the pre-dawn sky. The mission, USSF-87, lifts off from Launch Complex 41 on the Space Force base.

Viral AI post author warns of seismic changes, used AI to draft it

February 12, 2026, 6:12 PM EST. Matt Shumer, founder of an AI company, published the essay 'Something Big Is Coming' on X last week. The piece exploded online, with X metrics showing millions of views, and argues that AI's rapid progress will reshape society far faster than most expect. Shumer compares the shift to the early days of the COVID pandemic and says the tech sector acts as the canary in the AI coal mine, warning that more jobs will be affected. In an interview, he says AI labs focus on code-writing models, which may outpace other fields like law, and he wrote the piece partly to help his parents grasp what's unfolding. Reactions ranged from alarm to skepticism; some see a real warning, others see hype.

Eero Signal adds cellular backup to keep homes online during outages

February 12, 2026, 6:06 PM EST. Eero launches Eero Signal, a USB-C dongle with a built-in eSIM that automatically switches to a cellular network to keep a home network online when wired service fails. Available in 4G LTE and 5G RedCap variants, the device attaches to any USB-C powered eero on a Wi-Fi 6 or newer network. The 4G LTE model is now sold in the United States via Amazon for $99.99; a 5G RedCap version is due in 2026 for $199.99. Use of the cellular backup requires an annual Eero Plus subscription; the base plan costs $99.99/year and includes 10 GB of backup data. A higher plan, Eero Plus 100, offers up to 100 GB per month for $199.99/year. Critics question usefulness given widely available mobile hotspots.

Apple Watch Series 11 at $299 tops Presidents' Day Apple deals; AirPods, AirTags on sale

February 12, 2026, 6:04 PM EST. Presidents' Day discounts sweep Apple gear, led by the Apple Watch Series 11 at $299, about $100 off and the lowest price seen. Engadget notes the watch scored a 90 in its review for battery life and a slim, light design, with health metrics including hypertension alerts and Sleep Score. Other deals cover AirPods, AirTags (first-gen), the iPhone battery pack and crossbody straps for iPhone cases. Third-party options exist, but discounts on Apple's own gear are the focus. Deal coverage by Engadget Deals helps shoppers compare offers. Follow @EngadgetDeals for updates.

Montana data centers draw AI investors, raising water-use and transparency questions

February 12, 2026, 6:00 PM EST. Montana is emerging as a potential powerhouse for the AI era, but water use and transparency are shaping the debate. A CNBC analysis last year ranked Montana No. 3 for its ability to host data centers, even as only a handful exist. New proposals are advancing in energy, economic development and politics, as tech incumbents chase a growing market and billions in financing. NorthWestern Energy has signed preliminary agreements with three companies in about 14 months, signaling sizable electricity demand. Yet water-use data remains scarce, fueling scrutiny by environmental watchdogs who warn that opaque talks could turn communities into 'sacrifice zones' for global tech. Industry experts say developers push to lock in funding before policy changes, while a power-supply bottleneck complicates projects.

Insta360 unveils Luna dual-camera gimbal, targeting DJI Pocket line

February 12, 2026, 5:56 PM EST. Insta360 CEO Liu Jingkang unveiled Luna, a gimbal-based camera with two built-in sensors, at the company's annual conference. The device, positioned as a rival to the DJI Pocket 3, is not built on DJI tech, Liu said, and appears to use a modular design that allows detachable batteries and other modules. No price or shipping date was announced; the company said Luna would ship in the first half of 2026, likely between March and June. Speculation places a street price between $499 and $699, in line with the DJI Pocket 3. Public posts show the prototype, and posts on Weibo teased a Luna preview with a contest for reposts. The move signals Insta360's push into compact handheld cameras as DJI mulls a Pocket 4.

Anthropic closes $30B funding at $380B valuation, second-largest private tech round

February 12, 2026, 5:52 PM EST. Anthropic closed a $30 billion funding round valuing the AI company at $380 billion post-money, making it the second-largest private tech financing on record after OpenAI's more-than-$40 billion raise last year. The round was led by Coatue and Singapore's GIC, with additional participation from Microsoft and Nvidia. The funds will back infrastructure expansion, research and continued push into enterprise-grade products as Anthropic competes with Google and OpenAI. CFO Krishna Rao said customer demand across startups and large enterprises is driving the round. A portion of the deal also reflects earlier commitments from Microsoft and Nvidia, which had signaled up to $5 billion and $10 billion, respectively. OpenAI is reportedly seeking about $100 billion in a parallel round.

Tesla unveils Semi with Standard and Long Range trims, Musk says high-volume production this year

February 12, 2026, 5:50 PM EST. Tesla Inc. (Nasdaq: TSLA) updated the Semi truck, listing two trim levels on its site: Standard and Long Range. The Standard trim offers up to 325 miles of range with 1.7 kWh per mile energy use and a gross combined weight of 82,000 lbs. The Long Range version carries a heavier curb weight (about 23,000 lbs more) and targets 500 miles of range. Both trims claim 60% range recovery from a 30-minute charge. CEO Elon Musk, via X, said "Tesla Semi starts high volume production this year." DHL has taken delivery of the first unit, with operation in California at roughly 100 miles per day and weekly charging. Uber Freight also inked a deal to promote adoption, per Tesla's Semi program chief Dan Priestley.

Pixel 10a leaks show Berry red color, four options, and physical SIM in box

February 12, 2026, 5:46 PM EST. Google's Pixel 10a returns to the spotlight after a gallery from Evan Blass that shows four colors – Obsidian, Fog, Lavender, and Berry – in official-looking images. The design resembles the Pixel 9a but with subtle tweaks. The leak also reveals in-box contents: a USB 2.0 cable and a SIM tool, suggesting a physical SIM tray, though regional variations may apply. Google has confirmed a February 18 launch for the Pixel 10a series. The standout is the vibrant Berry red, drawing renewed interest, alongside ongoing talk about bezel size and the phone's budget positioning.

Tesla vs Nvidia: Which AI stock looks strongest as the AI boom accelerates

February 12, 2026, 5:44 PM EST. Nvidia's 2025 results show revenue and profits rising, underscoring its central role in AI compute. The firm's chips power the expansion, making it a focal point for AI investors. Tesla faces a tougher core auto cycle, with 2025 deliveries near 1.6 million, down 9%, and full-year revenue down 3% as rates bite and catalysts dry up. Yet Tesla details bright spots: a fast-growing energy storage business, with 46.7 GWh deployed in 2025 and about $12.8 billion in energy generation and storage revenue. Its autonomous ride-sharing push, Robotaxi, is progressing in Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area, with tests and driverless rides in limited pilots and plans to scale using hardware already on every car. Wider AI capex trends, including Waymo, frame the backdrop.

JPMorgan reorganizes core profit centers to accelerate AI push

February 12, 2026, 5:42 PM EST. JPMorgan Chase is restructuring its main profit centers to speed the deployment of AI across its businesses. People briefed on the plan said the changes would better align revenue streams with the bank's AI push, spanning areas such as trading, consumer banking, wealth management, and corporate banking. The moves reflect a broader shift to data-driven products, automation, and improved client delivery, aiming to lift efficiency and risk management. The firm has not commented publicly on the specifics. Analysts say the reorganization could sharpen decision making, but success will depend on talent, data governance, and robust AI governance.

AI mass unemployment could feel like a depression, warns Khan Academy CEO Salman Khan

February 12, 2026, 5:36 PM EST. Predictions of AI-driven job disruption have sharpened as milestones stack up. In 1997, Deep Blue beat Garry Kasparov; in 2023, ChatGPT passed the bar; last year, Google DeepMind won gold at the International Mathematical Olympiad. Some leaders, including SpaceX founder Elon Musk, say artificial general intelligence could arrive soon. Salman Khan, CEO of Khan Academy, argues the impact will be rapid and deep. 'If white-collar work shrinks even 10%,' he told Fortune, 'it's going to feel like a depression.' He warns of an identity crisis for workers tied to high salaries. MIT's 2025 study projects AI could replace about 12% of the U.S. workforce. Beyond white-collar roles, Khan says gig workers and drivers will feel the squeeze as automation grows. His prescription: a 1% corporate funding commitment to a national reskilling effort, outlined in a NYT op-ed.

Sony WF-1000XM6 lead in ANC as fit matters

February 12, 2026, 5:32 PM EST. Sony's WF-1000XM6 emerge as the top performers in active noise cancellation (ANC), delivering a balanced, punchy sound and a suite of improvements. The earbuds use eight microphones, a new chip, redesigned drivers, and a shape intended to fit a wider variety of ears. Fit matters: the included foam tips are critical for sealing and for achieving optimal ANC. Out of the box, sound is balanced with deeper bass thanks to a softer-edge driver and a rigid dome for clarity in high frequencies. In tests, they excel at blocking low-end cabin noise and tamping down conversations more than rivals like the Apple AirPods Pro 3 and Bose Ultra Earbuds gen 2. Call quality improves with a bone-conduction sensor and AI beamforming, though traffic and wind can introduce some vocal compression.

YouTube launches native visionOS app for Apple Vision Pro

February 12, 2026, 5:30 PM EST. Google's YouTube expands to Apple's Vision Pro with a native visionOS app. The company previously urged users to rely on Safari until an official app arrived. In the absence of an official app, third-party options appeared but were later removed after Google flagged violations of its guidelines. The new app brings standard features-subscriptions, watch history, playlists and Shorts-plus support for 3D, 360-degree, and VR180 videos. Vision Pro users can view YouTube in built-in visionOS environments and enjoy an immersive, lean-back experience. YouTube for Apple Vision Pro is rolling out today via the App Store. 8K support is noted for M5 devices.

Spectrum launches Invincible WiFi plan with WiFi 7, 5G backup and 8-hour battery

February 12, 2026, 5:26 PM EST. Spectrum on Thursday unveiled Invincible WiFi, a home internet option that blends WiFi 7, 5G data and an 8-hour battery backup to maintain connectivity during outages. The system automatically switches to the 5G backup with unlimited data, and it does so with no data cap. Spectrum says it supports 200+ devices and provides seamless switchover between networks. The feature is included free with Spectrum's 2GB plan and can be added to 1GB plans for $10/month or to other plans for $20/month. The company says Invincible WiFi targets remote workers and households seeking resilience against interruptions.

PA to pilot internet-connected pollbooks for May primary

February 12, 2026, 5:16 PM EST. A pilot program in Pennsylvania will test internet-connected electronic pollbooks (e-pollbooks) in the May primary. The Department of State says many counties have used or tested e-pollbooks, but current rules prohibit internet connections. The pilot would keep devices offline when transferring data to the state's voter management system. Proponents say internet-connected e-pollbooks could cut administrative burdens and speed result checks; critics warn of security risks. Vendors were told on Jan. 28 how to apply. Mercer County election director Thad Hall, who has Arizona experience, is cautiously supportive but participation hinges on factors beyond connectivity. Even with connectivity, voting machines stay offline and paper pollbooks may be kept as a backup for printing and updates. Real-time monitoring could help allocate resources to busy precincts.

Google tells staff to brace for AI shift or leave, offers severance

February 12, 2026, 5:12 PM EST. Google has reportedly informed staff that the company is preparing for AI alignment and urged employees to adapt. Those not aligned with the AI-focused strategy can opt for voluntary exits with severance. The move signals a shift toward AI-driven operations and raises questions about the human workforce. The development follows Alphabet's record 2025 revenue of about $400 billion. Memo discussions emphasize AI's potential to boost efficiency and innovation, while warning of a dynamic, high-stakes environment where quick adaptation is essential. The severance option is presented as a way to avoid forced layoffs by giving workers time to decide.

AI and the future of work: lessons from the BLS and the history of labor data

February 12, 2026, 5:10 PM EST. Historians trace 19th-century Massachusetts' creation of the Bureau of Statistics of Labor to measure hours, wages and risks. The author links that effort to today's AI era: measurement persists even when it cannot erase injustice. The BLS example shows that counting-surveys, earnings data and economists' term negative externalities-helps frame policy and build public trust. The piece argues that technology-driven disruption will test workers' livelihoods; wiser policy hinges on transparent data, explicit harms, and timely interventions. As automation accelerates, lawmakers must use statistics to map gains and gaps, justify action, and inform the public. Data won't eliminate pain, but it can illuminate the terrain and guide a response.

Senators accuse AI toy maker of exposing thousands of children's conversations

February 12, 2026, 4:58 PM EST. Two U.S. senators say an AI-powered toy maker exposed thousands of children's conversations in an unsecured database. In letters to manufacturers, Sens. Marsha Blackburn and Richard Blumenthal say staff found that the Miko toy's audio responses could be downloaded from a publicly accessible server, potentially exposing children's names and conversation details. Miko CEO Sneh Vaswani denied a breach, saying no voice recordings are stored and no customer data has been compromised. The staff reportedly used free tools to identify the exposure, noting folders labeled GOOGLE and AZURE on the server, with language-specific subfolders and dates. The letters request information on data protection practices and steps the company has taken to secure devices and data.

What the Tech: How iCloud syncing affects deleting iPhone photos

February 12, 2026, 4:54 PM EST. Shreveport report reminds users that when iCloud Photos is on, deleting a photo removes it from all devices as part of syncing. Deleted items sit in the Recently Deleted folder for 30 days before permanent removal. Some people panic when they turn off syncing. In Settings, tap your name, iCloud, then Photos, and choose Sync this iPhone. Decide between Remove from iPhone (keeps iCloud originals) or Download Photos & Videos (downloads full-resolution copies to the device). Either way, nothing is permanently deleted unless you delete from the main library or empty the Recently Deleted. For real backups, connect the iPhone to a computer and copy photos to an external hard drive. Understanding the workflow helps avoid regret when freeing space.

Google adds status display to Pixel's free VPN quick settings tile

February 12, 2026, 4:52 PM EST. Google's free VPN for Pixel devices now shows its status in the quick settings tile. The update, rolled out via a server-side flip, makes the larger 2×1 tile display one of four states: Connected, Paused, Connecting…, or Can't connect. Previously the tile showed only the label "VPN by Google" and changed color with activity; users had to long-press to view the exact state. The change targets Pixel 7 and newer devices on the latest VPN by Google app. To enable, go to Settings > Network & internet > VPN > VPN by Google, then expand the tile in quick settings. A 1×1 tile cannot display status due to space constraints.

Leaked Pixel 10a renders reveal Berry and other colors ahead of Feb 18 launch

February 12, 2026, 4:48 PM EST. Trusted leaker Evan Blass posted a trove of official-looking Pixel 10a renders, showing the phone from multiple angles. Google has confirmed a February 18 launch. The images hint at colors including Berry, Lavender, Fog and Obsidian, with the Berry model appearing notably vibrant. The Lavender option nods to the Pixel 8a's Bay colorway. Renders also reveal box contents: a USB-C to USB-C cable, a SIM ejector and a warranty booklet; there's no charger in the box. Early leaks describe a minor upgrade over the Pixel 9a, powered by the same Tensor G4 chipset and rear cameras. More details and pricing will arrive at the unveiling.

Anthropic donates $20 million to AI-regulation group ahead of 2026 elections

February 12, 2026, 4:44 PM EST. Anthropic, the AI lab facing White House scrutiny for its safety push, said it will donate $20 million to Public First Action, a group backing AI guardrails. Public First Action plans to back about 30-50 candidates across parties and has begun six-figure ad buys for Republicans Marsha Blackburn and Pete Ricketts. Blackburn is running for governor of Tennessee; Ricketts seeks re-election in Nebraska. The group is led by former lawmakers Brad Carson and Chris Stewart, who say the cycle could raise $50-75 million. Anthropic frames the money as support for policy that keeps risks in check while safeguarding growth and transparency. A Gallup poll this fall showed 80% favored AI safety rules. Critics, including David Sacks, have called the push regulatory capture.

Galaxy S26 series leaks reveal new colors and camera tweaks ahead of Feb 25 launch

February 12, 2026, 4:42 PM EST. Leaked, official-looking images published by Evan Blass show the Galaxy S26 lineup in four core colors: Black, White, Sky Blue, and Cobalt Violet. Samsung is rumored to offer Silver Shadow and Pink Gold as Samsung.com exclusives. The images suggest modest styling changes to the lower two models, with a revised camera bump on the S26 and S26+. The S26 Ultra adopts a new camera module and a slightly more rounded chassis; the S Pen is reshaped to match the frame, with its tip colored to blend with the device. Samsung has confirmed a February 25 event to unveil the trio.

Giant price drops hit Galaxy Watch Ultra at $299; Watch 8 and 8 Classic deep discounts

February 12, 2026, 4:38 PM EST. Woot offers deep discounts on Samsung's Galaxy Watch lineup. The 2025 Galaxy Watch Ultra is down to $299, $350 off the $650 list price. Galaxy Watch 8 is $200 off, and Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is $240 off. Samsung's official site lists Watch 8 from $259.99 after a $90 cut. Woot also sells international versions starting from $149.99 Prime shipped, but they come without Samsung warranty; a 90-day Woot warranty applies. The watches function in the US, but warranty coverage differs. Prospective buyers should weigh warranty implications against price, and note delivery fees on some listings.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 hits lowest price ever as supplies run low

February 12, 2026, 4:32 PM EST. Deal of the day: the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is at its lowest price ever, about a 30% discount, with limited stock. The 2023 flagship remains a rugged option thanks to its titanium frame and sapphire crystal glass display, and it delivers up to 36 hours of battery life-longer than the Series 11 and SE 3. It includes Apple's latest software and features the Vitals app for health metrics such as heart rate, respiratory rate and wrist temperature. Other watches on sale include the Apple Watch Series 11, discounted about 25%; it offers a smaller screen and lighter design, with up to 24 hours of battery life and 42/46 mm options. The Ultra 2 was discontinued after the 2025 Ultra 3 release.

iPhone 18 Pro's C2 chip could bring three advantages over iPhone 17

February 12, 2026, 4:30 PM EST. Apple is rumored to equip iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max with an Apple-designed C2 modem, moving away from Qualcomm. Three potential advantages are outlined: 1) improved battery efficiency thanks to tight iOS-Apple silicon integration, potentially extending cellular life beyond Qualcomm modems; 2) the new Limit Precise Location privacy setting, which limits location data shared with networks; 3) better performance in congested networks, as the processor can prioritize time-sensitive data. Apple has not disclosed exact gains for prior generations. The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to carry a bigger battery than the iPhone 17 Pro.

Apple Stores See iPhone 16e, iPad Air Shortages as New Models Near

February 12, 2026, 4:16 PM EST. Apple retail stock of iPhone 16e and iPad Air has dwindled ahead of upcoming releases, according to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, who cited Apple retail contacts. He says the supply for iPhone 16e is basically dried out and iPad Air shortages persist. Gurman also flagged an imminent iPhone 17e launch with four new features: the A19 chip, MagSafe connectivity, a new C1X cellular modem, and an N1 chip for Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Thread. He also forecast a new entry-level iPad 12 and a new iPad Air, both not expected to alter design, but to ship with refreshed chips-A18 for the 12th-gen iPad and M4 for the iPad Air, per his reporting. MacRumors will update when Apple announces specifics.

Best Presidents' Day Apple deals 2026: AirPods, iPads, Apple Watches and more

February 12, 2026, 4:14 PM EST. Deal shopping heats up ahead of Presidents' Day weekend as major retailers offer discounts on Apple gadgets. The Mashable guide notes savings across Amazon, Best Buy and Walmart, with up to $300 off select devices. Apple Store typically limits sales to back-to-school and Black Friday, so third-party retailers fill the gap during the holiday. Expect deals on AirPods, iPads, Apple Watches and other Apple gear, though not the steepest markdowns seen in peak sales periods. Prices can change after publication, and availability varies by retailer. The piece emphasizes prudent buying: evaluate what's worth upgrading and watch for price changes. The author, Haley Henschel, flags that deals can shift as the weekend approaches, making this a practical snapshot for shoppers targeting a premium tech refresh.

China January smartphone sales fall 23% YoY; Huawei retains lead, Counterpoint says

February 12, 2026, 4:08 PM EST. China's smartphone sales fell 23% year on year in January, Counterpoint Research said, pressured by a high base in 2025 and the timing of Chinese New Year promotions. Huawei remained the top brand despite a 27% decline. Domestic players posted double-digit drops, with Xiaomi down 36% year on year. Apple was the sole major brand to grow, up 8% as the iPhone 17 series sustained momentum. The report underscores shifting demand in a crowded market and how timing affects quarterly results.

Quantum HPC resilience boosted by restartable checkpointing using dynamic circuits

February 12, 2026, 4:04 PM EST. Researchers outline a checkpointing and restoration framework for quantum HPC systems that treats checkpointing as control-flow and state management rather than memory snapshots. The approach uses dynamic quantum circuits to permit mid-circuit measurements, classical feedforward, and conditional execution, enabling restartable workflows after interruptions. It circumvents the no-cloning theorem by capturing algorithmic state and measurement outcomes as classical data, allowing controlled re-execution of circuits. The design supports multiple checkpoint classes, including measurement history and fault-tolerant metadata, and aligns with iterative algorithms common in eigensolvers and time-stepping methods. A dedicated quantum HPC runtime coordinates checkpoint creation, failure detection, and restoration within existing HPC ecosystems, identifying safe boundaries at iteration or circuit-layer transitions.

Notch warns against AI-written code amid rising AI-assisted coding claims

February 12, 2026, 4:00 PM EST. Minecraft founder Markus Persson, aka Notch, urged against using AI to write code, calling it 'an incredibly bad idea' and saying supporters are 'either incompetent or evil.' He argues the concern goes beyond innovation, citing risks to autonomy and the essence of coding. He warned that AI could be used to manipulate people, likening it to being forced on us 'for a reason.' The post sits amid claims AI now fuels a growing share of software: Google says over 30% of its code is AI-generated; Microsoft puts the figure at 20-30%. OpenAI and Anthropic leaders have spoken of near-total or full-code generation in some contexts. Persson's message to Gen Z developers is blunt: 'Learn. Your. Craft.' He built Minecraft and sold it to Microsoft for $2.5B in 2014.

NVIDIA Seen as Robotics Play in 2026 Physical AI Push

February 12, 2026, 3:54 PM EST. NVIDIA's Jensen Huang recently framed the company as having a 'ChatGPT moment' for 'physical AI,' a claim that aligns with rising investor interest in robotics and agentic AI. The piece notes robotaxis as the public-facing form of physical AI, while long-term bets extend to humanoid robots showcased at CES 2026 and Elon Musk's Optimus project. It warns that agentic AI could reorder software stocks, as productivity gains reduce demand for traditional SaaS. Still, NVIDIA's Isaac and GR00T foundation models are highlighted as a promising base for the next generation of robots, combining movement-focused LLMs (large language models) with computer vision. The article frames NVIDIA as a top 'platform' play in a future where multiple robots inhabit homes and factories, potentially triggering another AI transition wave.

Bonkers clearance deal slashes Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) price

February 12, 2026, 3:52 PM EST. Samsung slashes the price on the Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) in a bonkers clearance deal. The rugged 47mm Wear OS watch is listed at about $299.99 on Woot, down from $649.99-roughly a 54% drop. The 2025 model mirrors the 2024 design but should receive solid longer-term software support thanks to its newer hardware. Key specs include a 1.5-inch AMOLED display with 480×480 resolution, sapphire crystal, GPS, Bluetooth, 4G LTE, titanium construction, 2GB RAM and 64GB storage, and up to 100 hours of battery life. It runs Wear OS with One UI 8. Notable features: Heart Rate Monitor, Sleep Tracking, and an Energy Score. This deal makes the Ultra competitive against non-rugged rivals while keeping a premium feature set at a non-premium price. Availability varies by seller and warranty terms apply.

Tesla Model Y tops California vehicle sales despite Musk backlash

February 12, 2026, 3:40 PM EST. Tesla remains in the spotlight as its Model Y leads California sales, even as investor commentary reframes the company. In a post-earnings note, Wall Street analyst Jim Cramer argued that Tesla is no longer a traditional carmaker but a robotics and AI company, moving quickly toward autonomy, the Cybercab concept and the Optimus humanoid robot. He cited the planned phase-out of the Model S and Model X after Q2 as evidence of a strategic shift away from passenger vehicles. Musk's remarks on self-driving, the Robotaxi ambitions and capital expenditure drew scrutiny, with shares trading modestly lower as investors weighed new businesses against near-term results. The market remains focused on whether the transition will unlock long-term value for Tesla investors.

Teens turn to AI chatbots for connection as experts warn of AI psychosis risk

February 12, 2026, 3:38 PM EST. Teens increasingly seek AI companions to fill social gaps, with a recent Common Sense Media study finding more than 70% of teens have used AI chatbots and 23% rely on them as friends. About 32% use AI for personal life decisions, while 24% share personal information with bots. Conversations on platforms such as Character AI or Replika are framed as digital friendships; TechCrunch notes a 700% rise in AI companion apps over three years. Health researchers, including at the University of Chicago, warn of potential harms, from loneliness to AI psychosis, where chatbot use may trigger paranoia or delusions in vulnerable users. Clinicians urge parents to watch for signs such as social withdrawal, secrecy, and sudden lifestyle changes.

Pixel Watch 4 long-term review: refined design and standout display endure six months

February 12, 2026, 3:32 PM EST. After months of daily use since its October 2025 launch, the Pixel Watch 4 shows durability and refinement rather than dramatic changes. The crown jewel remains the Actua 360 display, utterly gorgeous and seamlessly integrated with the curved chassis. Build quality holds up, with the Moonstone aluminum frame resisting pitting and glass free of major scratches despite gym visits and door frames. Google improves repairability, encouraging lighter maintenance. Wear OS remains a point of contention, but the reviewer notes a shortage of truly optimized watchfaces that exploit the screen's convex shape. Haptics edge past rival Android wearables, offering a more tactile feel. The verdict: the device is closer to fully realized, but software balance and design choices still constrain its full potential.

YouTube launches official visionOS app for Apple Vision Pro

February 12, 2026, 3:30 PM EST. Apple's Vision Pro now ships an official YouTube app built for visionOS, letting users stream all YouTube content-standard videos, Shorts, as well as 3D, 360, and VR180 formats. The release fulfills a promise Google flagged more than two years ago; YouTube had previously said a native Vision Pro app wasn't planned, then changed course once the headset hit shelves. An earlier, unofficial option, Juno from developer Christian Selig, appeared at launch but was removed from the App Store in October 2024. Apple spokesperson Corey Nord confirmed the rollout to The Verge. The Vision Pro hit the market over two years ago, and this marks the first official YouTube experience on visionOS.

China smartphone sales fall 23% YoY in January; Huawei leads, Apple posts growth

February 12, 2026, 3:12 PM EST. China's smartphone market fell 23% YoY in January, Counterpoint Research said, blaming a high base. Huawei led shipments, while Apple posted growth. Ivan Lam, senior research analyst at Counterpoint Research, said the result reflects tough year-ago comps but highlights Huawei's leadership and Apple's resilience in China.

Presidents' Day Apple deals: Watch Series 11 at $300, AirPods, Macs and iPads discounted

February 12, 2026, 3:06 PM EST. Presidents' Day sales bring a slate of Apple deals, led by the Watch Series 11 dropping to about $300 on Amazon, roughly 25% off. Apple touts health features such as hypertension alerts and sleep tracking, with claimed battery life up to 24 hours. Other discounts include AirPods 4 variants at about 22-23% off, both with and without Noise Cancellation. The MacBook Air 13-inch is about 15% off, while the MacBook Pro with M4 Pro sits around 10% off. The iPad mini and iPad 11-inch (A16) show 14-20% markdowns. Accessories see double-digit cuts too: AirPods Max, AirTag – 4-Pack, and Magic Keyboard Folio. Most deals appear via Amazon; Apple's own discounts are limited. Prices can change quickly, so shoppers should act fast.

How to manage iPhone notifications: Scheduled Summary, per-app controls and government alerts

February 12, 2026, 2:56 PM EST. Users overwhelmed by iPhone alerts can curb interruptions with built-in controls. A 2024 study found the average person receives 146 notifications per day, with Gen Z averaging about 181. Apple's Scheduled Summary groups frequent alerts into batches, allowing users to set timing, choose apps and batch delivery. To reduce noise from a specific app, users can disable Allow Notifications for that app in Settings. The guide also covers managing government alerts; some alerts are essential for public safety, but others can be muted. Open Settings, choose Notifications or Government Alerts to tailor warnings. The steps apply to iPhone models running the current iOS, highlighting how Apple balances urgent messages with user focus.

Waymo eyes 1 million weekly autonomous rides this year; Tesla robotaxis about 500 in two markets, Bloomberg says

February 12, 2026, 2:50 PM EST. Waymo aims to reach about 1 million weekly paid autonomous rides this year, Bloomberg reports. That would exceed the roughly 400,000 weekly rides it now provides after quadrupling service in 2025. The plan relies on adding new vehicle models and expanding into markets including Washington, Detroit, Las Vegas, San Diego and Denver, the company says. Waymo currently operates in six cities and expanded to Miami in January, with more than 2,000 fully driverless vehicles on the road. Its biggest competitor, Tesla, says it operates about 500 robotaxis with human drivers in Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area. Attribution to Bloomberg.

Blacklight privacy tool now detects TikTok and X pixels, expanding tracking insights

February 12, 2026, 2:48 PM EST. The Markup's Blacklight privacy inspector now flags TikTok and X pixels on websites, adding two more digital trackers to its existing detection of Google and Meta pixels. A tracking pixel is a small code that reports a user's activities-browsing, purchases and searches-to the platform that operates the pixel. When embedded widely, these pixels help build profiles used to target ads and, in some cases, share data among businesses. Blacklight's results point users to granular data about what's being passed, with an option to download an archive for deeper review. The feature was developed with Brandeis University computer science students. While Blacklight can't reveal exact practices of TikTok or X, it offers a starting point for investigating how data is stored, shared and used.

Managing iPhone notifications: scheduled summaries, per-app controls, and government alerts

February 12, 2026, 2:44 PM EST. A 2024 study found the average person receives about 146 notifications per day, rising to roughly 181 for Generation Z. To curb interruptions, iPhone users can use built-in tools in Settings. Set up Scheduled Summary to group alerts into batches: open Settings, tap Notifications, choose Scheduled Summary, toggle on, continue, and pick a daily schedule and the apps included. For persistent disruptors, turn off Allow Notifications for individual apps via Settings > Notifications > the app. To shield yourself from nonessential alerts, disable noncritical government messages in the Government Alerts section of Settings, leaving Public Safety and Emergency Alerts enabled. These steps reduce distraction while preserving essential alerts.

Presidents' Day Apple deals: Watch Series 11 down to $300, AirPods 4 lead discounts

February 12, 2026, 2:38 PM EST. The spotlight falls on the Watch Series 11, discounted to about $300, with claims of 24-hour battery life and new wellness alerts like high-blood-pressure notifications and a sleep sensor. Third-party retailers are tightening prices on other devices as well. The AirPods 4 drop to around $99 (without Noise Cancellation) or slightly higher with noise cancellation, via Amazon. Discounts also reach the MacBook Air 13-inch and MacBook Pro with M4 Pro, plus portable iPads including the iPad mini 7 and iPad 11-inch with A16. Peripherals such as AirPods Max, AirTag 4-Pack, and Magic Keyboard Folio show notable markdowns. Deals move quickly and vary by retailer.

Waymo targets 1 million weekly autonomous rides, expands markets; Tesla runs about 500 robotaxis

February 12, 2026, 2:36 PM EST. Waymo CEO Tekedra Mawakana says the company could reach about 1 million weekly paid autonomous rides this year, more than double its current roughly 400,000 rides after quadrupling service in 2025. The plan hinges on adding new vehicle models and expanding into new markets this year, including Washington, Detroit, Las Vegas, San Diego and Denver. Waymo now operates in six cities, added Miami in January, and says it has more than 2,000 fully driverless vehicles on the road. Its biggest rival, Tesla, says it is operating about 500 robotaxis, largely with human drivers, in Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area.

Privacy tool adds TikTok and X tracking-pixel detection

February 12, 2026, 2:34 PM EST. CalMatters' privacy tool Blacklight now flags TikTok and X pixels on websites. A tracking pixel is a small snippet of code that sends a site's visitors' activities-browsing, purchases, searches-to the platform that operates the pixel. The expansion follows more than 18 million scans since 2020, previously detecting only Google and Meta pixels. The feature was developed with Brandeis University computer science capstone students Yiyou Fan, Jiawen Hu, Hengye Li, Hongchen Yang and Yiquan Zhang. Blacklight's Pixel Hunt lineage has exposed sensitive data flows that led to lawsuits and pixel removals; the new data helps map the landscape of how data is stored, shared and used online. Blacklight cannot reveal exact vendor practices but offers a starting point for deeper inquiry.

Tesla gets 30-day extension to oppose 'Cybercab' trademark filed by UNIBEV

February 12, 2026, 2:28 PM EST. Tesla has been granted a 30-day extension by the USPTO's Trademark Trial and Appeal Board to decide whether to oppose UNIBEV's Cybercab trademark application. The extension, filed February 11, 2026, pushes Tesla's deadline to March 14, 2026. The move suggests the company isn't walking away from the name, even as it plans mass production of a vehicle at Gigafactory Texas in April under a still-undetermined designation. The dispute traces to a branding misstep: UNIBEV filed for the Cybercab mark in October 2024 in the vehicle category, before Tesla submitted its own filing in November 2024, giving UNIBEV priority and suspending Tesla's application. Trademark experts cite settlement talks, further evidence gathering, or a strategy to pressure a cheaper settlement. Musk has floated alternate names such as Cybercar and Cybervehicle.

QuitGPT goes viral as critics urge users to cancel ChatGPT

February 12, 2026, 2:22 PM EST. QuitGPT has emerged as a grassroots backlash against ChatGPT in February 2026, framed as a political and ethical protest. The decentralized campaign spread on Reddit, Instagram and dedicated sites, urging users to drop ChatGPT Plus and other paid tiers in favor of alternative AI chatbots. Proponents cite grievances including purported political contributions by OpenAI leadership to a pro-Trump super PAC, and the use of AI in government enforcement, such as hiring screens by ICE. A broader unease about who controls the technology fuels the effort, with organizers claiming tens of thousands have joined and a site listing about 700,000 committed to the boycott. Celebrity support from Mark Ruffalo amplified the issue into mainstream discourse. Even so, ChatGPT remains widely used, highlighting a clash between politics, corporate values and consumer choice, with uncertain impact.

Troomi Extends Child-Safe OS to Samsung Galaxy XCover7 Rugged Phone

February 12, 2026, 2:20 PM EST. Troomi announces the rollout of its child-safe OS on Samsung's Galaxy XCover7, pairing Troomi OS with a MIL-STD-810H rugged device built for kids. The phone features IP68 water/dust resistance and Gorilla Glass Victus+ for durability. Troomi OS is designed for prevention rather than surveillance, excludes social media apps, blocks harmful content, and uses AI-powered filtering to curb inappropriate texts and images. Parents gain real-time visibility via the Troomi Parent Portal and can scale features as needed. Available now at www.Troomi.com, the bundle targets families seeking a durable device that keeps children connected while guarding against digital risks.

Apple releases iOS 26.3 with cross-platform data transfer and privacy tweaks

February 12, 2026, 2:18 PM EST. Apple on Monday released iOS 26.3 alongside iPadOS 26.3, macOS Tahoe 26.3, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3 and visionOS 26.3. The update focuses on bug fixes and stability, but adds a cross-platform iOS-Android data transfer feature and improved privacy controls. It also introduces three exclusive European features not available in the United States. Industry observers see it as groundwork for a larger iOS 26.4 update, rumored to bring a Siri upgrade powered by Gemini AI, new emojis and more. In iOS 26.3, Apple splits Weather and Astronomy wallpapers into separate sections, signaling incremental changes. The new data transfer flow lets users place an iPhone and an Android device side by side, pairing via a QR code, with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth required.

AWS Momentum Underpins Amazon's Expanding AI and Cloud Strategy

February 12, 2026, 2:14 PM EST. UBS cut its price target for Amazon to $301 after Q4 2025 results, while guiding FY2026 capex at about $200 billion, above earlier estimates. UBS projects AWS growth near 38% in 2026, with mid-30% expansion possible through 2027 if spending stays elevated. In February, Bloomberg reported a multi-year cloud and AI deal between AWS and Prosus to roll out AI-enabled services in Latin America, Europe, and India. AWS executive Greg Pearson framed the deal as proof that commerce players use AI to transform customer experiences. The deal value wasn't disclosed; Prosus suggests hundreds of millions. UBS says AWS remains Amazon's growth engine, with potential revenue doubling by 2028 and stronger cash flow. Sentiment stays positive: about 92% Buy, with a median target near $285.

Google expands Safe AI Framework and threat modeling to curb AI misuse

February 12, 2026, 2:12 PM EST. Google says its approach to AI must be bold and responsible, guided by its AI Principles. It emphasizes robust security, safety guardrails, and ongoing testing to improve models. Policy guidelines and prohibitions aim to offer scaled protections for users worldwide. Threat intelligence helps disrupt adversary operations and is shared with law enforcement when appropriate; learnings feed back into product development to harden classifiers and models. DeepMind develops threat models for generative AI and has deployed defenses, with an evaluation framework that can automatically red-team vulnerabilities to indirect prompt injection. Trust & Safety teams collaborate with threat intelligence, security, and modelling units to stem misuse. Google introduced the Secure AI Framework (SAIF) and a toolkit for responsible design and evaluation, including red teaming and prompt-injection safeguards, with research partnerships to strengthen defenses.

Apple Wallet expands with Express Transit, digital keys in iOS 26

February 12, 2026, 2:10 PM EST. Apple Wallet is evolving beyond digital payments. In iOS 26, it adds Express Transit and Express Keys to streamline entry at transit gates and access to smart locks without extra taps. Users designate a single transit card that works with the turnstile even when the screen is off. The same principle extends to door locks that accept digital keys, simplifying the unlock flow. The update also strengthens card management: a Default Card option and the ability to reorder cards in Wallet to control which card is used by default when double-clicking the side button. Taken together, the features position Apple Wallet as a compact digital wallet that could replace several physical items for regular commuters.

AI judges spark debate on arbitration and justice

February 12, 2026, 2:06 PM EST. Bridget McCormack, former Michigan Supreme Court chief justice and now CEO of the American Arbitration Association, discusses AI in decision making. The AAA has built an AI-assisted platform, the AI Arbitrator, intended to resolve arbitration disputes that hinge on written documents; one case is on the docket. Arbitration is hailed for speed and lower costs and is widespread in contracts. The discussion weighs whether AI can boost public trust in the judiciary by making rulings more transparent and showing its work. Yet AI systems remain brittle and prone to hallucinations of facts, raising worries about fairness and the concentration of power in new automation. The conversation weighs risks, benefits, and the future of law.

Tesla leads on fuel economy as Trump moves to roll back emissions rules

February 12, 2026, 1:50 PM EST. Tesla leads the auto industry on fuel economy thanks to electric-vehicle credits that let it post the highest average fuel economy. Latest EPA data place Tesla atop the list, with a 2023 average of 120.6 mpg. Behind the policy debate, the Trump administration seeks to roll back Biden-era emissions rules, while EPA chief Lee Zeldin signals a review of the 2009 endangerment finding that underpins such standards. Proponents argue rollback would lower car prices; opponents warn of weaker air quality and climate impact. Tesla reported $401 million in regulatory credits in Q4 2025, a factor in its standings. The discussion centers on policy, incentives, and the pace of cleaner transport.

China's Space Town grows as rocket launches drive industry and tourism

February 12, 2026, 1:40 PM EST. From Wenchang's launch pad, a Long March-12 rocket carried new low-orbit satellites, marking the 12th routine mission since the first commercial site opened. The push is turning the southern city into an aerospace hub, with the Wenchang International Aerospace City (WIAC) hosting more than 700 space-related enterprises and reporting 2025 revenue above 20 billion yuan. Proximity to the equator and sea-based safety margins boost payload efficiency and logistics. The region's Hainan Free Trade Port policies, including zero tariffs and simplified taxes, attract global players and accelerate the industrial chain from manufacturing to data services. Tourism is evolving as rocket-viewing sites and aerospace education centers draw visitors, giving locals a new economic rhythm.

Chipolo Loop offers Android-friendly, rechargeable alternative to AirTag

February 12, 2026, 1:38 PM EST. Chipolo Loop positions itself as an Android-friendly alternative to AirTag. Priced at $39, it is rechargeable via USB-C, avoiding disposable batteries, and it features a louder built-in speaker at about 115 dB. It works with Apple Find My and Google Find Hub networks, expanding coverage beyond iPhone users. The integrated silicone loop eases attachment to keys, bags, or pets, though the loop isn't removable. The Chipolo app can ring a paired phone, send out-of-range alerts (Android only), and even trigger selfies with a squeeze. But it omits iOS-style precision finding and may offer less precise location data in some scenarios, while still challenging the AirTag on several fronts.

Microsoft pushes toward self-sufficient AI with in-house models and custom silicon

February 12, 2026, 1:36 PM EST. Microsoft is pushing toward AI self-sufficiency, aiming to build its own foundation models and reduce dependence on OpenAI while keeping the partners' ties intact. In an October 2025 update, Microsoft described OpenAI as its frontier model partner, with IP rights and Azure API exclusivity through 2032, including models post-AGI. The move aims to insulate Copilot and other products from single-source risk, ensuring compute, security and billing stay Microsoft-shaped. The company has previewed MAI-1, an in-house mixture-of-experts model trained on about 15,000 NVIDIA H100 GPUs, and introduced Maia 200, a chip designed to improve inference economics and challenge CUDA's grip. Microsoft now hosts models from xAI, Meta, Mistral and Black Forest Labs, and even uses Anthropic models in Copilot after testing, paying AWS for access. The goal: host winning models with a Microsoft badge.

Samsung cuts Galaxy S25 Ultra price to clear inventory ahead of Galaxy S26 launch

February 12, 2026, 1:30 PM EST. Samsung is discounting the Galaxy S25 Ultra ahead of the Galaxy S26 launch to clear last year's flagship. The deal includes up to $700 in instant trade-in credit and $250 off without trade-in. The phone features a 6.9-inch display, a Titanium Frame and an integrated S Pen, plus IP68 water and dust resistance. Its camera system uses a 200MP primary sensor and a 12MP front camera, aided by the AI ProVisual Engine and enhanced Nightography. A Snapdragon 8 Elite chip drives performance, with improved cooling and a 5,000 mAh battery offering long video playback. Samsung's Now Brief and Google Gemini integration extend AI features. The pricing move aims to move inventory as the next flagship approaches.

Diablo II gets first major update in 25 years with Reign of the Warlock starring Rahul Kohli

February 12, 2026, 1:26 PM EST. Blizzard Entertainment announced the first major update for Diablo II in 25 years, titled Reign of the Warlock. The remastered Diablo II: Resurrected will add a new Warlock class voiced by Rahul Kohli, described as disciplined and ominous. The update lands Wednesday on Battle.net, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch. The Warlock will also appear in Diablo IV's upcoming Lord of Hatred update on April 28, and in the mobile title Diablo Immortal with Andariel Rises this summer. Blizzard framed the announcements as part of a broader push to mark the franchise's 30th anniversary ahead of BlizzCon in September. Kohli told Variety the news came as a surprise; he called it new content for a 26-year-old game and expressed hype.

Google DeepMind chief Hassabis says Page and Brin back in AI race to win the future

February 12, 2026, 1:18 PM EST. Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, told Fortune that Larry Page and Sergey Brin are back in the weeds, actively guiding a broader push to win the AI future. The founder-led revival coincides with the merger of Google Brain and DeepMind, which Hassabis calls the company's engine room and a nuclear power plant powering Google's ecosystem. He notes Brin has been programming and Page is taking a strategic role, part of a shift after the OpenAI-driven wake-up in 2023. Brin's late-2025 re-engagement and a return to heavy office rhythms are cited as fueling a renewed shipping culture and the rapid development of frontier models like Gemini. Hassabis says Google's talent remains unmatched, and the industry owes much to work from the two groups.

SpaceX-xAI merger drives 18.51% of The Private Shares Fund holdings; top 10 holdings highlighted

February 12, 2026, 1:16 PM EST. The Private Shares Fund says its position now centers on the SpaceX-xAI merger, which it attributes to 18.51% of fund holdings as of February 10, 2026. The combination aligns SpaceX's launch systems and Starlink with xAI's artificial intelligence models, the fund notes, positioning the merged entity to pursue Space-Based Data Centers and orbital computing. Fund adviser Liberty Street Advisors says the arrangement highlights the potential of real-time insights and integrated infrastructure, with Starlink's global connectivity and SpaceX's deployment capabilities forming a new AI backbone. The fund's top 10 holdings, led by SpaceX, total 49.24% of holdings as of 2/10/2026; other names include GrubMarket, Nanotronics, Tradeshift, and Dataminr. Holdings are subject to change; this is not a buy or sell recommendation.

Biological Computing Co. raises $25M to power AI with lab-grown neurons

February 12, 2026, 1:14 PM EST. Biological Computing Co. raised $25 million in seed funding from Primary Ventures to launch what it calls the world's first biological computing platform for computer vision and generative AI. The startup, formerly Biological Black Box, aims to swap silicon for living neurons to deliver models that are faster, cheaper and more adaptive. The platform links lab-grown neurons with modern AI infrastructure and uses modular adapters to map neural activity to foundation models, alongside an Inspired Compute layer that guides new AI designs. Co-founder and CEO Alex Ksendsovsky says the approach addresses the cost and energy concerns of brute-force scaling and halves compute demands over time. COO Jon Pomeraniec positions the effort as a shift to a new computing paradigm beyond silicon.

HPE CFO uses AI platform Alfred to overhaul weekly 100-slide briefing

February 12, 2026, 1:10 PM EST. HPE's finance function becomes an AI proving ground. CFO Marie Myers says the 90-minute Monday Operational Performance Review, once powered by 100 pages of PowerPoint and hours of manual prep, is being reimagined. In partnership with Deloitte, the team built CFO Insights on the Zora AI platform, running on HPE's Private Cloud AI. Inside the company, the system is nicknamed Alfred and is more than a tool: it is a platform for rethinking finance and CFO leadership. CFO Insights has cut the reporting cycle by about 40% and reduced processing costs by at least 25%, while giving leaders faster data access and self-service natural language queries. Centralization of FP&A prep turned a scattered workflow into a live data process; Alfred blends generative AI and agentic AI on a unified data fabric, with Nvidia among collaborators.

Nvidia eyes possible easing of export curbs on older AI chips for China

February 12, 2026, 1:00 PM EST. Shares of Nvidia rose about 9% last week on signals that Washington may ease export restrictions on older AI chips bound for China. The company has kept H20 sales out of the market, and the H200 license status remains central to policy shifts. Nvidia's Q2 FY26 showed zero H20 China revenue due to current rules. An easing could restore billions in revenue and provide margin expansion if older chips were allowed without cannibalizing Blackwell sales to U.S. hyperscalers. CEO Jensen Huang has emphasized demand for next-gen products; China revenue would be incremental margin. Analysts see big tech AI capex near $700B, with Nvidia potentially capturing 40-50% of that spend. The February 25 earnings call could lay out management's outlook for China access.

NVIDIA's GeForce Now lands on select Amazon Fire TV sticks

February 12, 2026, 12:40 PM EST. NVIDIA has released a native GeForce Now app for select Amazon Fire TV devices, expanding cloud gaming on the platform. The app works on second-gen Fire TV Stick 4K Plus and 4K Max (Fire OS 8.1.6.0+) and the original 4K Max if running Fire OS 7.7.1.1+. On Fire TV, streaming tops at 1080p/60fps SDR with H.264 encoding and stereo audio. Higher-end features such as HDR10, up to 5K, and up to 360fps with 7.1 audio are available only on more capable hardware. A controller is required. NVIDIA announced the Fire TV app at CES last month. The service now sits alongside Xbox Cloud Gaming and Amazon Luna on Fire TV.

Galaxy S26 Reserve: $150 Samsung Credit, $30 Completion Credit, up to $5,000 sweepstakes

February 12, 2026, 12:38 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S26 Reserve program gives real perks ahead of launch. The process is free, with no deposit and no immediate charge. To reserve, visit the Galaxy S26 Reserve page, enter basic details, and you will receive a confirmation email outlining how the $150 Samsung Credit and a $30 completion credit apply when you buy. The program also lets you lock in your trade-in value ahead of release, including options in India, effectively preserving today's maximum exchange value. A sweepstakes automatically enters every reserver, with prizes culminating in a grand winner of up to $5,000 in credits or a Samsung bundle. Bottom line: reserve now to secure perks without commitment, then decide later and complete the purchase when ready.

Optical computing prototype could dramatically cut AI energy use

February 12, 2026, 12:28 PM EST. Penn State researchers led by associate professor Xingjie Ni unveiled an optical computing prototype aimed at slashing AI's energy demand. Reported in Science Advances on February 11, the design uses a looping "infinity mirror" to encode data directly into light beams, enabling nonlinear operations needed for modern AI with far less power. The device relies on readily available components-from LCD displays to LEDs-avoiding exotic materials or high-power lasers. By moving computation from electronics to photons, the system targets data centers cooling and electricity costs tied to GPUs. Ni says the approach could yield cheaper, more sustainable AI services and enable on-device, real-time processing while preserving data locality.

Tesla vs Nvidia: which AI stock is the better buy now?

February 12, 2026, 12:26 PM EST. The AI boom is unfolding around two names at the center: Nvidia and Tesla. Nvidia powers the expansion with its AI chips, while Tesla pushes AI into the physical world through autonomy and robotics. Tesla's core auto business faces headwinds, with 2025 deliveries down about 9% and revenue and earnings dipping. Yet its energy storage business shows momentum-2025 deployments rose 49% to 46.7 gigawatt-hours, driving roughly $12.8 billion in energy generation and storage revenue. Tesla's Robotaxi pilots operate in Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area, with driverless tests expanding and safety monitors being removed on some rides. The company also plans a humanoid robot called Optimus later this year. Investors weigh chip-led growth versus autos-led risk as AI accelerates.

Albanian actor seeks court order to remove her image from AI minister

February 12, 2026, 12:24 PM EST. An Albanian actor, Anila Bisha, says the government's AI minister, Diella, uses her face and voice. She filed an administrative court request this week to stop the government from using her image and voice, alleging a violation of personal data. Bisha had signed a contract allowing use of her voice and image for the e-Albania platform, but says she was not informed of plans to portray her as an AI minister. The case follows global debates over synthetic voices; OpenAI previously pulled a voice after similar concerns. The government has not commented. Bisha plans a damages suit. The move underscores tension between public-sector innovation and individual rights.

Quantum Computing Inc. stock eyes growth in TFLN market, but risks remain

February 12, 2026, 12:02 PM EST. Quantum Computing Inc. relies on a U.S.-based TFLN photonics chip foundry in Tempe, giving a domestic edge in a fast-growing market. The Fab 1 site combines front-end fabrication and back-end packaging under one roof, with Fab 2 planned to lift volume. Market data show the TFLN opportunity rising from about $190 million in 2024 to $1.93 billion by 2029, at a CAGR near 39%. In 2025 the company raised over $1.5 billion, financing commercialization, scale-up, and potential acquisitions. The August 2025 NIST contract adds real-world validation, though the stock remains high-risk as it pursues high-volume production and faces competition from peers like IONQ and QBTS.

Steam Deck OLED sells out in US on Valve's official store; OLED models still available in select regions

February 12, 2026, 11:54 AM EST. Valve's Steam Deck OLED remains in production but is out of stock in the United States on the official Steam store, interrupting availability despite no official discontinuation. The company has not announced a new model, with Steam Deck 2 years away by some estimates. Outside the US, stock persists in several regions. In the United Kingdom, all three models are available. Germany and the Netherlands show OLED variants in stock while the 256GB LCD remains out of stock. Canada is out of stock across the board. Australia currently lists all models as in stock. The 256GB LCD variant was discontinued late in 2025; subsequent shipments focus on OLED variants.

Android update shortcuts: from Settings widget to direct update activity

February 12, 2026, 11:52 AM EST. Rita El Khoury of Android Authority describes a quick way to reach the Software updates screen without digging through Settings. Frustrated with the routine taps to check for Android updates during beta waves, she tests two tricks. First, place the Settings widget on the home screen to jump into the System settings, then tap Software updates. The shortcut saves a few taps per check. She also explores Android Activities-screens inside apps that can be opened directly. By targeting the Software updates activity (via tools like Shortcut Maker), a user can reach the updates page with a single tap, a small but meaningful productivity gain for those managing updates across multiple devices.

HPE turns finance into the AI front line of the enterprise

February 12, 2026, 11:42 AM EST. At Hewlett Packard Enterprise, the finance function is redefining how a company operates in the AI era. CFO Marie Myers stripped away a 90-minute Monday ritual of 100-page decks and hundreds of hours of manual prep, replacing it with Alfred, an AI-powered platform built with Deloitte on HPE's Private Cloud AI. Alfred has reportedly removed about 90% of the manual effort in weekly reviews, cut the reporting cycle by roughly 40%, and reduced processing costs by at least 25%. The real work, however, lies in reskilling more than 3,000 finance professionals to work alongside AI. Myers says leadership remains human-the loop is essential. HPE, Fortune 500 No. 143, portrays a model for finance-led enterprise transformation driven by automation and new skills.

Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2.1 released for Google Pixel devices

February 12, 2026, 11:40 AM EST. Google has released Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2.1 for Google Pixel devices, according to the Google Blog and the Android Developer Release Note. The update continues the quarterly platform release for Pixels, with access via the beta program. Developers and testers can submit feedback or report issues through the Android Developer portal. The release notes outline changes, known issues, and guidance for compatibility. For experienced users, Google recommends using the Android Flash Tool to flash builds. The process and channels for feedback remain the same; the company says iterations will address stability and developer concerns.

Light-Based Quantum Computing Hits Fundamental Limits For State Creation

February 12, 2026, 11:36 AM EST. Researchers at The University of Queensland and collaborators formalize the limits of heralded state generation in linear optics for photonic quantum systems. Using the Nullstellensatz Linear Algebra algorithm from algebraic geometry, the team proves when a desired discrete-variable quantum state cannot be produced with a given setup, addressing the lack of strong non-linearities at the single-photon level. The work yields rigorous lower bounds on resources for photonic quantum information processing and helps validate existing protocols. It clarifies why deterministic transformations are constrained in linear optics and why probabilistic methods-built from many photons and measurements-are essential for measurement-based optical quantum computing and simulators. Authors include Deepesh Singh, Ryan J. Marshman, Luis Villegas-Aguilar, Jens Eisert, and Nora Tischler.

Huawei rolls out heart failure risk assessment to Watch GT 6 Pro with HarmonyOS 6 update

February 12, 2026, 11:30 AM EST. Huawei is expanding a coronary heart failure risk assessment feature to its Watch GT 6 Pro, following a January rollout for the Watch Ultimate 2. The top model features sapphire glass and aerospace-grade titanium, with a 1.47-inch AMOLED display and up to 3000 nits brightness. Huawei says the watch can run up to two weeks on typical use and 21 days in power-saving mode. The update, running HarmonyOS 6.0.0.188, also adds silent notification controls, smart reminders, and broader Android compatibility for remote camera control, plus improved open-water swimming distance accuracy and overall stability. The heart-risk feature is currently limited to the Chinese market, and users must join the coronary heart failure campaign via the Huawei Innovation Research app.

Co-Creative Data to spend up to 11 bln yuan on servers for cloud services; Shuangliang Energy Saving linked to SpaceX project; Wusun Technology to invest 3.3 bln yuan in high-end PCB plant

February 12, 2026, 11:24 AM EST. Co-Creative Data (300857.SZ) announced it will procure servers from multiple suppliers, with contracts not exceeding 11 billion yuan, to support its cloud computing services. The proposal was unanimously approved at the eleventh meeting of the fourth board of directors and will be submitted to the shareholders' meeting; it exceeds 50% of the company's audited assets and triggers required review. Separately, Shuangliang Energy Saving (600481.SH) disclosed overseas orders for three heat exchanger devices valued at about €1.7 million (roughly 13.923 million yuan), used in a fuel system for SpaceX's Starship expansion. The company is a non-exclusive indirect supplier with no direct SpaceX cooperation. Wusun Technology plans to invest 3.3 billion yuan in a new high-end PCB production project to meet long-term demand for high-speed computing servers.

Harvey opens Dallas office to expand legal AI footprint

February 12, 2026, 11:16 AM EST. Harvey, a four-year-old San Francisco AI startup that helps lawyers draft and review documents, is opening a Dallas office this April to deepen ties with local firms and in-house legal teams. The move follows rapid growth, with clients such as Vinson & Elkins, Haynes Boone and Jackson Walker, and partnerships with AT&T and KBR. John Haddock, Chief Business Officer, says proximity to customers matters. Harvey has raised more than $1 billion from backers including Sequoia, Kleiner Perkins and the OpenAI Startup Fund, and Forbes valued it at about $11 billion. The company reports over 1,000 customers in around 60 countries and $190 million in annual recurring revenue in 2025. Competition includes Legora, Spellbook and Thomson Reuters' CoCounsel. The Dallas office opens in April and will hire for roles.

iPhone 17e could fix Apple's design misstep by reintroducing MagSafe and Dynamic Island

February 12, 2026, 11:06 AM EST. Rumors say the iPhone 17e may answer critics of the iPhone 16e by bringing back essential features. The iPhone 16e drew fire for no MagSafe, no Dynamic Island, a smaller camera set, and a less capable chipset in a bulky design. TechRadar reports the 17e could reintroduce MagSafe at a faster 25W charging rate and add the Dynamic Island, signaling a shift toward up-to-date tech in a more affordable package. If true, it would address the so-called design crime while keeping a lower price point around $599. Apple previously trimmed features in the SE line; a revived 17e could align the budget Apple with the features users now expect, without requiring new charging accessories.

Western creators chase China's livestream market beyond the Great Firewall

February 12, 2026, 11:02 AM EST. Behind the Great Firewall, Americans lose access to YouTube, yet more than half a billion Chinese users watch livestreams. The piece follows how Western creators eye this untapped market, where livestreams have dominated entertainment for a decade. With all US apps blocked, daily life runs on QR codes, super-apps, and in-app mini-programs that even translate into English for outsiders. In this environment, Western stars like MrBeast test the Chinese platform Bilibili, greeting viewers in January 2024. The shift sits beside a tense US policy stance toward China, while younger Americans increasingly admire Chinese tech, solar panels, and trains, and experiment with networks such as RedNote. For creators, the China market is vast but logistically complex, demanding new formats and local partners.

Tesla China January sales down 45% YoY to three-year low as exports surge

February 12, 2026, 10:42 AM EST. Tesla's domestic retail sales in China in January fell 45% year-on-year to 18,485 units, the weakest monthly figure since November 2022, according to CPCA. The wholesale total at Giga Shanghai reached 69,129, but 50,644 were exported, lifting the export share to 73% and marking a record export month. Domestic demand remained weak: January's domestic retail was down 54% from January 2024. The Model Y slid to 20th in China's retail rankings, while Xiaomi's SU7 outsold the Model 3 in January with roughly 22,000 units vs about 8,000 for Tesla. The divergence reflects exports and a pull-forward effect ahead of a 5% NEV purchase tax reinstatement in 2026.

Xiaomi Tag debuts as budget AirTag rival, but omits UWB connectivity

February 12, 2026, 10:40 AM EST. Xiaomi has unveiled the Xiaomi Tag, a Bluetooth item tracker pitched as a budget rival to Apple's AirTag. In France, it's listed at about €18; in Eastern Europe, as low as €14. The tag weighs 8 g, carries IP67 dust and water resistance, uses a CR2032 battery claimed to last a year, and supports Bluetooth 5.4. It pairs with Apple's Find My and Google's Find Hub networks for location updates. It omits UWB connectivity, which enables centimeter-level precision; Xiaomi may release a version with UWB later, at higher cost. Apple has updated its AirTag line with a second-generation UWB chip; AirTag 2 sells for around $29.

DHS face-recognition app cannot reliably verify identities, records show

February 12, 2026, 10:38 AM EST. Records reviewed by WIRED show the Department of Homeland Security rolled out Mobile Fortify in spring 2025 to help identify or verify individuals stopped by federal agents. The system uses facial recognition, but experts say it cannot provide a reliable positive identification and is intended mainly to generate leads. DHS reportedly fast-tracked approval by dismantling centralized privacy reviews and loosening department-wide limits on facial recognition, changes implemented under a former Heritage Foundation lawyer. DHS has not disclosed methods or tools and has applied Fortify beyond alleged targets, including U.S. citizens and bystanders. Accounts describe agents telling people they were being recorded or that their faces would be added to a database without consent, and using perceived ethnicity as a risk factor. The story highlights a broader shift toward street-level biometric capture with limited transparency.

Walmart Presidents' Day 2026 deals: TVs, Apple devices, laptops and more

February 12, 2026, 10:34 AM EST. Walmart's Presidents' Day 2026 sale covers electronics, home goods and more, with weekend markdowns on TVs, earbuds, kitchen appliances and Apple devices. Christina Buff, a Nashville-based freelance writer, tracks price drops and updated discounts across Walmart's lineup. The deal notes emphasize that pricing and availability can change after publication, and affiliate links may yield a commission. The article offers a best-at-a-glance roundup of the top offers, urging shoppers to act quickly as inventory shifts. In short, shoppers seeking value on technology and home essentials will find bundles across categories, from big-screen TVs to laptops and smart devices.

YouTube Music launches AI Playlist, copying Spotify's Prompted Playlist

February 12, 2026, 10:30 AM EST. Late last month, Spotify unveiled its new Prompted Playlist feature, letting users generate playlists from prompts. YouTube followed with a similar option, rolling out AI Playlist to Premium subscribers and signaling the feature on X. For now, details are scarce: there's no clear way to edit or tweak what's generated. The rollout appears limited to mobile, with Android and iOS support, though some users report it hasn't appeared yet. YouTube also offers an existing Ask Music feature that builds playlists via AI, so the two tools may blur at first. Whether AI Playlist will diverge from Ask Music remains to be seen, as app makers test how users respond and evolve the features.

DJI Mini 5 Pro price drop: Fly More Combo with RC 2 now $1,099

February 12, 2026, 10:26 AM EST. DJI's Mini 5 Pro is again in the spotlight as the drone maker cuts bundle prices. Amazon lists the drone from $759 with Prime shipping, while the Fly More Combo with the built-in-display DJI RC 2 controller is $1,099, down from $1,599. The kit bundles three intelligent flight batteries, extra props, and a carry case for longer sessions-roughly 100 minutes of total flight time. The drone features a near 1-inch sensor that delivers 4K video, HDR stills, and higher frame rates, plus omnidirectional obstacle sensing and improved tracking. The price move makes the Mini 5 Pro a more compelling choice for hobbyists and aspiring filmmakers, even as DJI faces U.S. launch constraints noted in the piece.

AI-driven chip shortage lifts smartphone prices as memory costs rise

February 12, 2026, 10:16 AM EST. AI demand is squeezing memory chips, raising prices for smartphones and computers and potentially lifting consumer costs in Germany and elsewhere. WSTS data show memory prices surged about 50% last year. ZVEI warns bottlenecks imposed €102 billion in economic damage in Germany from 2021-2023. In early 2025, the global semiconductor market reached $346 billion, up 18.9% year on year, with WSTS forecasting 22% growth for 2025 to $772 billion and more than 25% in 2026 to $975 billion. IDC models a 3-5% rise in average smartphone prices, potentially as much as 8% in a pessimistic scenario. Samsung signaled possible price increases; Apple has not commented. Morgan Stanley expects 2026 to keep base-model prices high while larger storage adds cost. Memory's share of device costs rose from about 8% in 2020 to roughly 10% by September 2025.

Microsoft Surface Pro hits record low at $650, bundles 1-month Xbox Game Pass

February 12, 2026, 10:10 AM EST. Microsoft cuts the 12-inch Surface Pro 2025 to $650 on Amazon, and new buyers get a free month of Xbox Game Pass. The unit runs an 8-core Snapdragon X Plus chip, not the higher-end Snapdragon X Elite ($1,100). In tablet form it shines on a 12-inch PixelSense Flow display with a built-in kickstand; attach the optional keyboard to convert it into a Windows laptop. Microsoft 365 Personal and Office apps accompany the device. Battery life runs up to 16 hours for video or light tasks. Copilot+ AI, powered by the Qualcomm Hexagon NPU, delivers up to 45 TOPS. The deal highlights how the Surface Pro blurs lines between tablet and laptop.

Insta360 to release a DJI Osmo Pocket rival this year

February 12, 2026, 10:06 AM EST. Insta360 plans to release a pocket-sized camera and stabilization device to rival DJI Osmo Pocket this year, the company said. The move broadens Insta360's lineup beyond action cameras and 360-degree rigs, tapping demand for compact, handheld footage in vlogging and travel. No technical specs were disclosed, but industry watchers expect improvements in stabilization, form factor, and ease of sharing. The pledge signals heightened competition in the pocket-camera niche, with this year likely to bring multiple new models to market.

Thursday's biggest analyst calls: Apple, Shopify, Nvidia among upgrades

February 12, 2026, 10:04 AM EST. Analysts on Wall Street on Thursday issued a slate of upgrades and reiterations focused on technology, e-commerce and automation stocks. Evercore ISI reiterates Apple as outperform, saying delays to Siri upgrades are overblown; Apple is expected to roll out AI features in phases, prioritizing privacy and seamless integration before a larger Siri overhaul this fall. TD Cowen upgrades Shopify to Buy, citing a strong quarter, ongoing growth and an attractive entry point despite recent volatility. William Blair upgrades Fastly to Outperform after a standout quarter boosted by AI-driven traffic. KeyBanc reiterates Nvidia as Overweight, arguing CUDA-driven data-center demand and high barriers to entry support dominance. Deutsche Bank upgrades BorgWarner to Buy, calling AI data-center exposure a strategic shift. JPMorgan upgrades MercadoLibre and LuxExperience to Overweight; Barclays upgrades Pegasystems to Overweight.

Researchers re-examine Apple's hypertension feature amid health-tech funding and policy shifts

February 12, 2026, 9:58 AM EST. STAT Health Tech previews a broad update: venture-capital activity in health tech, telehealth policy, and the government's progress on information blocking. The piece also reports new research assessing the accuracy of Apple's hypertension feature, a tool that uses wearable data to estimate blood pressure. The study notes mixed results and ongoing debate about clinical reliability and user privacy. The newsletter frames technology's role in healthcare, the business and policy challenges ahead, and how federal and private stakeholders view tech-driven care, with veteran health-tech journalist Mario Aguilar guiding coverage on AI, wearables, telehealth, and digital therapeutics.

Google Pixel VPN update adds connection status to Quick Settings tile

February 12, 2026, 9:38 AM EST. Google's Pixel VPN by Google gains a status readout in the Quick Settings tile, letting users see connection state without opening the app. The 2×1 tile now shows current status on its second line, with indicators such as Connected (tile filled and rounded), Paused (pill), Connecting…, and Can't connect. The change removes the need to launch the fullscreen VPN app, though long-pressing the tile still opens it directly. The rollout rides with version 2025.12.19.x and relies on a server-side component; not all Pixel devices show it yet. In other Pixel app news, Recorder and Screenshots got minor patches this week without new features. Some users still prefer the 1×1 tile.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 is $250 off for Presidents' Day, challenging Ultra 3

February 12, 2026, 9:34 AM EST. An opinion piece argues the Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers most of the features of the current generation at a steep discount. The Ultra 3 debuts at $799 while the Ultra 2 is currently $549 at Best Buy for Presidents' Day. The Ultra 2 introduced a brighter display (3,000 nits), a faster processor (S9), and a lighter Black Titanium choice, delivering quick app launches, GPS lock, and workouts via the Action button. Battery life runs about 36 hours, while the Ultra 3 clocks 42 hours and charges in 45 minutes. The Ultra 3 adds satellite-based iMessage and Find My, plus a modest performance bump. Otherwise design, screen brightness, and sapphire crystal are similar. The writer recommends Ultra 2 for save-money upgrades, noting the potential to buy AirPods Pro 3 with the savings.

Italo to install Starlink internet on entire train fleet by 2027 in SpaceX deal

February 12, 2026, 9:32 AM EST. Italian private operator Italo said it will equip its high-speed trains with SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet, under a strategic deal with SpaceX to cover its entire fleet by 2027. The arrangement marks the first large-scale partnership between a major rail operator and SpaceX's LEO (low-Earth orbit) network. The upgrade aims to boost passenger connectivity and onboard digital services as operators compete on travel experience.

Instagram chief grilled over prior use of 'addiction' term in landmark social media trial

February 12, 2026, 9:30 AM EST. Adam Mosseri testified in Los Angeles as part of a landmark social media trial, saying he disagrees with the idea that people are clinically addicted to platforms. The case centers on whether social networks pose harms to children, with Meta and YouTube facing bellwether plaintiffs after TikTok and Snap settled. A 20-year-old plaintiff identified as KGM is among two others chosen to guide juries. Mosseri drew a line between clinical addiction and what he called problematic use, noting he was not a medical expert and has seen a relative suffer from addiction. The plaintiff's lawyer highlighted past podcast quotes in which Mosseri used the word addiction, while Mosseri defended efforts to balance safety with broad access. The sides sparred over cosmetic filters, body dysmorphia, and Meta's earlier ban on third-party AR filters.

Blacklight adds TikTok and X pixels to its privacy detector

February 12, 2026, 9:18 AM EST. CalMatters' privacy tool Blacklight can now scan for two more digital trackers: the TikTok pixel and the X pixel, expanding beyond Google and Meta. A tracking pixel is a small code snippet that sends a website visitor's activity-browsing, purchases and searches-to the platform that operates it, helping build user profiles for targeted ads and other uses. When Blacklight analyzes a site, it reports whether the TikTok pixel or X pixel is present, and offers data details via a downloadable archive. The update was developed with Brandeis University capstone students and aligns with earlier Pixel Hunt discoveries about sensitive data shared with Meta and Google. Blacklight cannot state how TikTok or X use the data, but it provides a starting point for investigation. For questions, [email protected].

Privacy tool Blacklight adds TikTok and X pixel detection

February 12, 2026, 9:14 AM EST. CalMatters' privacy tool Blacklight now scans for TikTok and X pixels, expanding its tracking-detection reach. Since 2020, the inspector has run more than 18 million scans and previously flagged pixels from Google and Meta. A tracking pixel is a small code snippet that reports a user's browsing, purchases and searches to the platform behind it. When embedded across sites, these pixels can build detailed profile data used to target ads. The update was developed with Brandeis University students in a Capstone in Software Engineering course, and follows earlier Pixel Hunt findings that spurred lawsuits and scrutiny of government sites sharing data with Meta and Google. Blacklight offers a starting point for readers to investigate how data is stored and used online.

Tesla Model 3 Keeps Cabin Warm in -35°F Test; Energy Use and Cost Quantified

February 12, 2026, 9:12 AM EST. Canadian YouTuber FrozenTesla tested a 2024 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD in -35°F (-37°C) to gauge cabin warmth and energy use in an emergency. The car, left outside starting at 80% SOC, ran in Camping Mode at 60°F (15.5°C) for 12 hours. It consumed 40% of its battery, leaving 40% SOC at the end. The test used 36 kWh of energy, roughly 3 kWh per hour, costing about $6.80 at a $0.189/kWh rate. If the battery falls to 30% SOC, the model would offer about nine hours of warmth; six to seven hours would leave a buffer to reach a charger or home. The exercise shows EVs can heat cabins without burning fuel, though duration depends on starting charge.

Blacklight adds TikTok and X pixel detection to reveal cross-site tracking

February 12, 2026, 9:04 AM EST. Blacklight, TheMarkup's privacy inspector, now flags TikTok and X pixels on websites, extending its ability to reveal how trackers gather data. Since 2020, more than 18 million scans have been run; the tool previously exposed Google and Meta pixels. A pixel sends site activity-browsing, purchases, searches-to the platform behind it, enabling profile-building that can be used for targeted ads or other purposes. The new feature was built with Brandeis University capstone students and expands the digital privacy map by showing when two more companies embed pixels. While Blacklight cannot disclose what TikTok or X do with the data, it offers a starting point for deeper investigation into data storage and sharing. The team invites questions at [email protected].

Tesla Model 3 warms cabin for nine hours in -35°F test

February 12, 2026, 8:58 AM EST. Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD kept cabin warm in -35°F, according to a Canadian test by FrozenTesla. The owner left the car outside with Camping Mode on and the climate at 60°F. Start: SOC 80%. After nine hours, the battery dropped 30%; after 12 hours, 40% remained. The vehicle was then charged back to 80%, adding 36 kWh of energy at an estimated $6.80 cost (electricity at $0.189/kWh). The car averaged about 3 kWh per hour, suggesting roughly nine hours of warmth from 30% SOC, with six to seven hours leaving a buffer to reach a charger. No issues with doors, windows, or trunk. EVs heat without burning fuel.

Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD keeps cabin warm for nine hours at -35°F in test

February 12, 2026, 8:56 AM EST. Canadian YouTuber FrozenTesla tested a 2024 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD outside at -35°F (-37°C) to see how long the cabin can stay warm in an emergency. He left the car running in Camping Mode with the climate set to 60°F (15.5°C) for 12 hours. Starting state of charge was 80%; after nine hours the battery fell to 50%, and after 12 hours to 40%. The test consumed about 3.33% per hour, equating to 36 kWh total, a cost of about $6.8 at U.S. electricity averages. With 30% SOC remaining, maximum runtime would be roughly nine hours, though drivers should plan six to seven hours to reach a charger or home. No system issues were observed.

China launches month-long Spring Festival crackdown on AI-generated harmful content

February 12, 2026, 8:44 AM EST. China's Cyberspace Administration (CAC) launched a month-long Qinglang operation to foster a festive, harmonious and positive online environment ahead of the 2026 Spring Festival. The campaign, starting immediately, will target four categories of online misconduct with a special focus on AI misuse: mass production of low-quality, incoherent or repetitive content; inserting vulgar or violent elements into classics for parody; bulk generation of misleading formats such as 'motivational web essays,' 'dominant CEO fantasy dramas,' and 'expert popular science' pieces in text, image and short videos. Regulators will also address online fan-circle conflicts around galas and film releases; crackdown on anti-marriage or anti-childbirth narratives and related fertility anxiety. Xiang Ligang said AI boosts production speed but requires oversight. Wealth-display schemes linked to 'New Year shopping' will be scrutinized.

Nvidia stock set to jump after Feb. 25 results on strong growth and Vera Rubin data-center GPUs

February 12, 2026, 8:42 AM EST. Nvidia will report its fiscal 2026 fourth-quarter results after the market closes on Feb. 25. Analysts expect revenue of $65.5 billion, up about 67% year over year, and earnings about 71% higher, even as the company cites stronger product mix and cost control. Guidance for the period reportedly excludes potential sales to Chinese customers. For fiscal 2027, analysts see earnings growth of roughly 63%. Nvidia plans to roll out its Vera Rubin data-center GPUs this year, which the company says could cut AI inference costs about tenfold versus Blackwell, a point HSBC echoed about a premium over prior-gen systems. The stock trades near 24x forward earnings, versus the Nasdaq-100's ~26x. A stronger-than-expected result could revive momentum amid concerns about AI's bubble and geopolitics.

Samsung Display unveils QD-OLED Penta-Tandem five-layer OLED for premium TVs and monitors

February 12, 2026, 8:40 AM EST. Samsung Display unveiled its new QD-OLED Penta-Tandem brand for a five-layer organic light-emitting structure that underpins its premium QD-OLED panels. The company said it has completed trademark registration for the label, which highlights the five-layer stack used in panels for high-end TVs and monitors. The approach delivers higher luminous efficiency (about 1.3x vs. four-layer), longer lifespan (about 2x) and peak brightness of up to 4,500 nits for TVs and 1,300 nits for monitors at 3% OPR. A 27-inch UHD panel at 3840×2160 resolves 160 PPI. Samsung notes the technology aligns with VESA DisplayHDR TrueBlack 500 certification and will be rolled out across its lineup this year. The brand aims to position the five-layer stack as a core differentiator amid competition.

Vulcan SRB anomaly observed during USSF-87 launch; mission proceeds

February 12, 2026, 8:36 AM EST. United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket suffered an apparent burn-through aboard one of its four GEM 63XL solid rocket boosters during the USSF-87 mission on Feb. 12, 2026. The anomaly appeared within the first 30 seconds of flight from Cape Canaveral, prompting a more pronounced roll before the boosters were jettisoned on time at T+1 minute 37 seconds. ULA said the booster, upper stage and spacecraft continued on a nominal trajectory, and the team is reviewing data. A separate observation of a nozzle issue on the same SRB was noted about 20 seconds after liftoff. The mission, carrying U.S. Space Force payloads including possible GSSAP satellites, marked Vulcan's second national security flight since 2025 certification; ULA plans 16-18 Vulcan launches in 2026.

Candidate centers AI policy in NY campaign with eight-point plan

February 12, 2026, 8:20 AM EST. New York state lawmaker Alex Bores released an eight-point, national AI framework as he campaigns for the Democratic nomination in the 12th District. He faces opposition from major AI players and eight-figure attack ads funded by industry leaders, with some support from others in the field. The plan calls for expanding efficiency at data centers tied to renewable energy, requiring companies to report AI-related job losses, and creating an AI dividend funded by productivity gains. It proposes a national version of the NY RAISE Act to mandate independent safety testing and regulator disclosures, plus contingency planning for rapid AI change. It also seeks child safety standards, a national data privacy law, and traceability for AI-generated media.

Nvidia to build Taiwan HQ as Taipei inks AI-focused expansion

February 12, 2026, 8:16 AM EST. Nvidia signed a deal to build its Taiwan headquarters in Taipei's Beitou-Shilin Technology Park, with a 50-year lease and an option to extend up to 20 years. The agreement includes royalties of about NTD 12.2 billion, plus NTD 1.2 billion Nvidia will absorb from a settlement after the city ended a prior contract with Shin Kong Life. Construction of the HQ could exceed NTD 40 billion (~$1.3 billion) and would create more than 10,000 jobs. The government had earlier cleared a plan for a 3.3 billion NTD HQ; the site will host a commercial office and a broader business park. Analysts note Nvidia's need to expand its R&D with Taiwan's TSMC, while TSMC seeks diversification and proximity to Nvidia and Apple, including a US expansion in Arizona. Nvidia shares rose about 0.8% premarket to $191.49.

NVIDIA Nemotron 3 Nano 30B MoE model available in SageMaker JumpStart

February 12, 2026, 8:14 AM EST. NVIDIA has made the Nemotron 3 Nano 30B MoE model generally available in Amazon SageMaker JumpStart. The model runs with 3 billion active parameters and supports a context window of up to 1 million tokens, delivering high coding and reasoning performance. Described as a hybrid Transformer-Mamba MoE, Nemotron 3 Nano balances accuracy with compute efficiency and is fully open, with open-weights, datasets, and recipes for customization. Developers can deploy via SageMaker JumpStart without managing deployment logistics, then test the endpoint with AWS CLI using model ID nvidia/nemotron-3-nano. Prerequisites include a provisioned SageMaker Studio domain. NVIDIA highlights strong benchmarks and suitability for generative AI tasks across coding, math, and scientific reasoning.

Apple Creator Studio AI usage limits appear far lower than promised, testers say

February 12, 2026, 8:08 AM EST. Developer and security researcher Steve Troughton-Smith found that ACS AI limits are much tighter than Apple's promise of 50 Keynote slides per month. In his tests, a single Keynote slideshow consumed about 47% of a monthly limit, suggesting only about two presentations fit per month. By contrast, Codex in Xcode used far less of its weekly quota in the same period. The discrepancy prompted questions from John Gruber about the expected balance between different AI features. Apple's guidance to check usage status remains: on Mac, Pages/Numbers/Keynote > Intelligence Features > Show Usage Status; on iOS devices, the same path via the More button. Apple did not immediately respond. Readers with an ACS subscription are encouraged to share their usage percentages.

AI Safety Gap Expands Beyond Pandemics, Security Officials Warn

February 12, 2026, 7:54 AM EST. In 2023, former UN inspector Rocco Casagrande arrived at the White House with a sealed container of test tubes. He says an AI chatbot supplied a lethal pandemic recipe and ideas on optimal weather and targets. The episode pushed policymakers to act; the US AI Action Plan and the UK's 2025 Strategy Defence Review reflect that. Frontier AI Safety Commitments, announced at Seoul, pledge to address risks across the CBRNe spectrum. Yet a dangerous gap remains: policy and industry concentrate on a single lone wolf virus attacker, while state actors and terrorist groups are under-examined. Pandemic risk is not a proxy for chemical weapons or improvised explosive threats, requiring distinct AI safety tests. Some labs backtrack on safety commitments, partly due to limited classified data to validate risks. AI can also help illicit actors bypass controls.

Dreame Smart Ring outperforms Oura Ring 4 in three key areas at CES 2026

February 12, 2026, 7:52 AM EST. In hands-on tests, the Dreame Smart Ring delivers three advantages over the Oura Ring 4. It adds an onboard micro-vibration motor for haptic alerts, letting alarms, calls and messages pulse through the finger. Current message haptics work with WeChat and QQ, with native iOS messaging to come. The ring also offers custom touch controls on a side touchpad-swipe, double-tap and long-press-paired quickly with an iPhone 16 Plus to control Spotify and volume. Health tracking mirrors the Oura Ring 4, including heart rate, SpO2, HRV, sleep, activity and women's health, but in a thinner, space-grade ceramic shell at about 2.5mm thick versus the Oura's ~2.88mm.

Launch firms split on how to challenge SpaceX as demand outpaces supply

February 12, 2026, 7:50 AM EST. At the SmallSat Symposium in Mountain View, executives from Rocket Lab, PLD Space and Stoke Space debated how to challenge SpaceX, which accounted for about half of all orbital launches in 2025. With demand outpacing supply, small launch firms face pressure to win on price against SpaceX's rideshare program, while customers stay price sensitive. Rocket Lab's Brian Rogers warned that competing on price alone is risky and urged a differentiated market entry. PLD Space's Daniele Dallari said price must be competitive, but the value lies in services-dedicated launches and quick responsiveness. Stoke Space's Devon Papandrew argued for a price-competitive plan and a fully reusable medium-lift vehicle, creating a cost floor others can't undercut. He noted internal costs from SpaceX's Starlink deployments when it launches for third parties, helping explain the current scarcity versus saturation dynamic.

Tesla-led price cuts push EV prices lower in January, but sales slide

February 12, 2026, 7:48 AM EST. EV prices fell again in January, led by Tesla, according to Kelley Blue Book. The average transaction price for a new EV dropped to $55,715, down 3.1% from December and 0.6% year over year, even as the broader auto market rose. Tesla accounted for roughly 60% of January's EV sales, with its average transaction price at $52,628, down from $53,678 in December. Compared with January 2025, Tesla prices were 2.2% lower, while the rest of the industry rose about 1.9%. EV incentives slid to 12.4% of the transaction price in January, from 18.3% in December, though incentives remain well above historical norms. Kelley Blue Book estimates just over 66,000 EVs were sold in January, about 30% lower than a year ago and roughly 20% below December. Price cuts aren't reviving demand yet.

Tesla-led price cuts push EV prices lower in January as sales slide

February 12, 2026, 7:46 AM EST. Tesla pushed the price ladder for electric vehicles lower in January, but demand didn't follow. Kelley Blue Book estimates the average transaction price for a new EV slipped to $55,715, down 3.1% from December and 0.6% year over year, while overall auto prices rose. Tesla, accounting for roughly 60% of January EV sales, saw its average transaction price fall to $52,628 from $53,678 in December. Relative to January 2025, Tesla prices were 2.2% lower, even as the rest of the market rose 1.9%. Incentives for EVs declined to 12.4% of the transaction price in January from a revised 18.3% in December, but remain above historical norms. Sales of about 66,000 EVs in January were roughly 30% lower than a year earlier and about 20% below December, underscoring weak uptake despite discounts.

The WMD AI Safety Gap: Policy Gaps in AI Risk

February 12, 2026, 7:44 AM EST. In 2023, a former UN weapons inspector arrived at the White House with a sealed container of test tubes that could trigger a pandemic if assembled. He said an AI chatbot had provided the lethal recipe-and ideas on weather and targets-sending a stark message about how quickly AI can help build devastating weapons. Policymakers note the shift: the US AI Action Plan seeks defenses; Britain's 2025 Defence Review prioritizes bio, chemical and related threats; and frontier AI labs have issued Safety Commitments for the CBRNe (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives) spectrum. But a danger lurks: too much focus on lone actors and pandemics, with insufficient scrutiny of state and terrorist threats, and of non-pandemic weaponization. Advanced AI can also help evade export controls.

Dreame Smart Ring edges Oura Ring 4 in three key areas, hands-on at CES 2026

February 12, 2026, 7:38 AM EST. At CES 2026, the Dreame Smart Ring arrives with three clear advantages over the Oura Ring 4. First, onboard micro-vibration motors deliver haptic alerts for alarms, calls, and messages, though native iOS messages aren't yet supported. Second, a side touchpad enables custom touch controls-swipes, double-tap and a long press-to operate apps like Spotify after a quick pairing with an iPhone 16 Plus. Third, the ring packs similar health tracking to Oura (heart rate, SpO2, HRV, sleep, activity, and women's health) in a notably slimmer, space-grade ceramic shell at about 2.5 mm thick compared with Oura's 2.88 mm. Dreame's combination of features targets a more compact, connected experience.

Tesla pivots to AI and robotics, Cramer says; Model S/X to end as autonomy focus grows

February 12, 2026, 7:36 AM EST. Wall Street analyst Jim Cramer argues Tesla is transitioning from a carmaker toward AI and robotics, a view he says Elon Musk outlined after the latest earnings release. The narrative centers on autonomy and a future built around Cybercabs and humanoid robots, with Musk signaling the end for the Model S and Model X after Q2. Investors are weighing the shift against higher capital expenditure as the company leans into autonomous driving and robotaxi services. Tesla shares edged lower in early trading, reflecting caution about the pace of the pivot and the sustainability of vehicle sales. The stance mirrors a broader debate on whether Tesla's real value lies in AI and robotics rather than traditional autos.

Tesla pivots from cars to AI and robotics, per Cramer after earnings

February 12, 2026, 7:34 AM EST. Jim Cramer argues Tesla is shifting from a car company to an AI and robotics juggernaut, in notes after the late-January earnings release. He says modest auto results mask a broader pivot toward autonomy, Robotaxi, and humanoid robots. Musk signaled that Model S and Model X will be discontinued after Q2 as the focus moves to autonomous vehicles. Cramer frames the transition as rapid and bullish, calling Tesla a Cybercab and Optimus-type company rather than a traditional automaker. The stock ticked lower on the news, while executives cited higher capital expenditures. The narrative emphasizes a move away from vehicles toward AI and robotics, with SpaceX floated as a potential separate catalyst.

Biological Computing Co. raises $25 million seed to swap silicon for lab-grown brains

February 12, 2026, 7:20 AM EST. Biological Computing Co. raises $25 million seed from Primary Ventures to launch the world's first biological computing platform for computer vision and generative AI, leveraging living neurons to power next-gen models. Formerly Biological Black Box, the startup links neural tissue with conventional AI infrastructure to deliver frontier models that officials say are more stable, scalable and cost-efficient than silicon-only systems. The approach aims to curb the escalating compute costs driven by brute-force scaling in today's AI, with founder Alex Ksendsovsky arguing that lab-grown neurons can complement silicon. Data is encoded into neurons and decoded back into representations mapped onto AI models via modular adapters; an Inspired Compute platform informs new system designs. COO Jon Pomeraniec calls it a paradigm shift after silicon.

Biological Computing Co. raises $25 million seed round to swap silicon for lab-grown neurons

February 12, 2026, 7:18 AM EST. The Biological Computing Co. says it has raised $25 million in seed funding from Primary Ventures to launch the world's first biological computing platform for computer vision and generative AI. Formerly Biological Black Box, the startup plans to connect living neurons with modern AI infrastructure to improve stability, scalability and efficiency while cutting compute costs. Co-founder and CEO Alex Ksendsovsky says the approach blends silicon with lab-grown neurons to avoid the brute-force scaling that now drives AI progress. The platform encodes real-world data into neurons and maps neural activity to foundational models via modular adapters; an Inspired Compute layer informs new AI system designs. COO Jon Pomeraniec says the effort marks a paradigm shift beyond silicon.

DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo discounted 31% on Presidents' Day at Amazon

February 12, 2026, 7:16 AM EST. DJI's flagship mini drone, the DJI Mini 5 Pro, is listed with a 31% discount on Presidents' Day at Amazon, lowering the Fly More Combo price to $1,099. The discount marks the steepest cut seen on the model, which launched in October. The drone features a 1-inch sensor, 50MP stills, and 4K/60fps video, a three-axis gimbal, and wind resistance up to 12 m/s (26.84 mph). Omnidirectional obstacle avoidance with forward LiDAR enhances low-light object detection, and it can return home without GPS. A 225° rotating gimbal borrowed from the Mavic 4 Pro adds dynamic movement. The Fly More Bundle includes RC-2 controller and extra batteries. The price is the lowest to date, potentially the best buying window for this year.

Tesla promotes EMEA exec Joe Ward to lead global sales amid European collapse

February 12, 2026, 7:08 AM EST. Tesla promotes Joe Ward, its vice president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), to oversee global sales operations, per Bloomberg. Ward has led EMEA for more than five years and joined Tesla in 2010. The appointment follows leadership turnover in Tesla's sales unit, including Raj Jegannathan's departure after 13 years. Ward will run the company's sales, service and delivery network globally as Europe's demand sinks. European data: Germany -48% in 2025 (continuing into 2026), UK -57% in January, Netherlands -67%, France -42%. Tesla's automotive revenue accounted for about 70% of last quarter's $24.9 billion. The company has not refreshed major models, and Musk's political activity has angered European buyers.

Jurassic Park: Classic Games Collection to be delisted from digital stores in March 2026

February 12, 2026, 7:02 AM EST. Limited Run Games announced the delisting of the Jurassic Park: Classic Games Collection from digital storefronts after March 31, 2026. The notice appeared on Steam; the publisher said that sales will stop, but owners-whether physical or digital-can still redownload and play. The removal affects the Switch release and the eight 8-/16-bit games across NES, Game Boy, SNES, and Genesis / Mega Drive (including Part 2: The Chaos Continues entries and the Rampage Edition). No reason was given, but licensing rights expiry is commonly the cause, as with Bill & Ted's Excellent Retro Collection. Limited Run said it would provide ample notice, urging fans to grab the package before the deadline, if they wish.

HaiZhi Technology Group surges over 210% in dark pool; HKD 11,388 per lot

February 12, 2026, 6:48 AM EST. Futu News reported HaiZhi Tech GP (02706.HK) closed up 210.42% in today's dark pool session, at HKD 84 per share. Each lot contains 200 shares, yielding HKD 11,388 per lot before fees. The company markets itself as a leader in graph computing and graph databases in China since 2013, with joint work with the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Tsinghua University on high-performance computing. Its AtlasGraph database reportedly posted a throughput edge of about 45% ahead of peers. Frost & Sullivan ranks it among top AI agent providers in China's industrial sector and first in graph-based solutions. Leadership includes Ren Xuyang and Yang Zaifei, supported by ongoing R&D partnerships as it expands industrial AI. Risks include competition and substantial R&D investment.

ULA Vulcan launches from Cape Canaveral as sparks light the night on USSF-87 mission

February 12, 2026, 6:46 AM EST. A United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket lifted from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Launch Complex 41 early Thursday, after a brief delay. The two-core BE-4 engines and four side-mounted solid rocket boosters powered the ascent, with boosters detaching about 2.5 minutes into flight. Witnesses reported a brief flash and sparks near the boosters; ULA said data were reviewed but the mission remained on a nominal trajectory. The payload, USSF-87, is a Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) satellite designed to help the U.S. Space Force track and attribute threats to GEO spacecraft. It is described as the heaviest Vulcan payload flown to date, with an estimated 10 hours to reach its destination. ULA signals a higher launch cadence, including a Vulcan debut from California.

Mario Tennis Fever 1.0.1 patch fixes gameplay; online features require latest version

February 12, 2026, 6:36 AM EST. Nintendo's Mario Tennis Fever gets a day-one patch: version 1.0.1. The update is small, adds no new features, but Nintendo says it improves gameplay. The company notes the patch is required to access online features. Updating to the latest version will prevent local or LAN play with older builds. The game goes global tomorrow, February 12. A roundup of initial reviews is linked separately.

Galaxy S26 price rumors: U.S. and Europe expectations ahead of February launch

February 12, 2026, 6:34 AM EST. Rumors surround the Galaxy S26 ahead of Samsung's February 25 unveiling. In Europe, leaks outline starting prices of €999 for the S26, €1,269 for the S26 Plus and €1,469 for the S26 Ultra, with a potential €100 jump for the 256GB variant in France. The size of increases grows with higher storage. In the United States, multiple reports suggest prices could stay flat at $799, $999 and $1,299, but some sources warn of a possible $50-$100 rise. Past behavior hints at a freeze, but no certainty. Analysts point to higher component costs and inflation; taxes mean European prices won't map neatly to the U.S. market. Samsung has not commented ahead of the official reveal.

Nvidia rolls out OpenAI Codex to 30,000 engineers in automation push

February 12, 2026, 6:30 AM EST. OpenAI and Nvidia rolled out Codex to all 30,000 Nvidia engineers, the broadest enterprise deployment of an AI coding assistant to date. Nvidia's cloud-managed rollout follows CEO Jensen Huang's push that AI should automate tasks to free engineers for problem-solving. The latest Codex runs on the GPT-5.3-codex model; engineers report it maintains context through complex, multi-step workflows. Dennis Hannusch and Benjamin Klieger praised its context management and token efficiency. OpenAI said it worked with Nvidia to provide admin controls and US-only processing with fail-safes. The move traces to a November 2025 all-hands where Huang urged staff to embrace AI, not fear it. Nvidia stresses AI will grow its workforce, not shrink it, even as it hires thousands and opens offices in Shanghai and Taipei. Nvidia also uses Cursor across its teams.

ULA launches Vulcan Centaur from Cape Canaveral on USSF-87 mission

February 12, 2026, 6:16 AM EST. United Launch Alliance lifted its Vulcan Centaur rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 4:22 a.m. Thursday, sending a pair of Space Force surveillance satellites into orbit as part of the USSF-87 mission. ULA framed the flight as advancing U.S. national security interests in space with the launch vehicle's high-energy architecture. Officials later said they were reviewing data related to one of the rocket's four solid motors after an early observation. The booster, upper stage and spacecraft continued on a nominal trajectory, with postflight data review underway. The brief launch window and Florida's Space Coast context remained a focal point as authorities assessed performance metrics.

Alphabet's 100-year bond raises fears over debt-fueled AI arms race

February 12, 2026, 6:14 AM EST. Alphabet sold a rare 100-year sterling bond as part of a multi-currency, multi-tranche package totalling about $20 billion to fund AI infrastructure and data centers. The issue drew strong demand from pension funds seeking to match long-dated liabilities, with orders nearly 10 times cover and a coupon around 120 basis points over gilts. Markets strategists say century bonds remain untested terrain and flag late-cycle froth in credit as hyperscalers borrow to finance expansion. Alphabet's capex is expected to hit about $185 billion this year, while rivals including Oracle, Amazon and Microsoft push debt issuance toward about $3 trillion over five years. Critics urge caution, noting tight spreads and uncertainty in long-term demand. The deal underscores how a wave of AI investment is reshaping credit markets and risk appetite.

Alphabet's 100-year sterling bond signals AI funding boom but spurs warnings of debt-market froth

February 12, 2026, 6:00 AM EST. Alphabet's 100-year sterling bond drew strong demand from pension funds and insurers seeking to match long-term liabilities, as part of a broader $20 billion debt drive for data centers and AI infrastructure. The issue, Alphabet's first sterling century bond, drew nearly 10x orders and carried a coupon about 120 basis points over 10-year gilts, per Bloomberg. Analysts call century bonds rare for corporates and warn they sit in untested waters. Wind Shift Capital's Bill Blain says the deal reflects an off-the-historical-scale borrowing amid an AI hyperscaler surge. Alphabet expects capex to reach about $185 billion this year. Others like Oracle, Amazon and Microsoft also push spending, amplifying concerns about late-cycle froth in credit markets.

Private equity's software bet derailed by AI disruption

February 12, 2026, 5:44 AM EST. Private equity firms poured capital into software platforms, betting on recurring revenue and scale. In recent months, AI breakthroughs and rapid product cycles upended those bets. Buyers faced higher valuations for AI-enabled teams, yet competition, talent gaps, and uncertain ROI squeezed returns. Some funds trimmed exposure to legacy software or shifted toward cloud-native, AI-infused offerings with subscription models. Analysts say exits have cooled as buyers reassess risk and lenders demand tighter terms. The shift underlines a broader recalibration in tech investing: software remains a cornerstone, but AI disruption reshapes pricing, integration timelines, and the route to profitable scale.

Tablets with pens offer viable notebook replacement, new guide says

February 12, 2026, 5:40 AM EST. Tablets with pen support are increasingly central to creativity, planning and productivity, the guide notes. A responsive stylus matters as much as hardware. It highlights the best options for students, artists and professionals who need accurate input for sketching, annotating, note-taking or editing. The top pick is Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Lite, with the S Pen in the box, a bright display and long battery life, delivering reliable performance at an affordable price. Another strong option is the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+, offering a larger display, smooth multitasking and continued S Pen support. Pros include long battery life, in-box S Pen, AMOLED or large high-quality displays and robust software updates. Caveats noted include brightness in certain lighting and occasional lag. The guide emphasizes balance among performance, display quality and usability.

Software engineer says AI has a 'vampiric effect' driving fatigue in tech teams

February 12, 2026, 5:38 AM EST. A software engineer-reporting now-says AI tools are sapping energy in the workplace by pulling attention from core tasks and triggering constant monitoring. The so-called vampiric effect, they say, feeds on cognitive load as alerts, recommendations and workflows demand near-continuous attention. Industry researchers note rising burnout risk tied to information overload and erratic tool prompts. Leaders warn for new work styles: deliberate reduction of tool interruptions, structured reviews, and mandatory breaks. Experts emphasize that proper training and governance can curb fatigue while preserving automation gains. Companies are urged to track workload, set guardrails on AI prompts, and give engineers time to focus on design and debugging rather than triage.

DJI Osmo 360 firmware upgrade adds vertical shooting, live streaming, and ND effects; price falls to $511

February 12, 2026, 5:36 AM EST. DJI released a firmware update for the Osmo 360 that adds native vertical shooting, enhanced livestreaming, and cinema-inspired color tools. The upgrade introduces Single-Lens 9:16 Vertical Boost, enabling 2.7K or 4K vertical capture with no crop, publishable directly to TikTok, Instagram Reels, or YouTube Shorts. The app-side Livestream mode now allows switching between front and rear lenses, with a local 1080p/30fps recording for backup. DJI also adds Film Tone profiles for moods from natural skin tones to vibrant landscapes, plus ND filter effects that simulate motion blur via Mimo and DJI Studio. The Adventure Combo price falls to $511, with delivery before Valentine's Day, broadening the Osmo 360's appeal for creators.

Private equity's software bet derailed by AI, reshaping dealmaking

February 12, 2026, 5:34 AM EST. Private equity firms poured capital into software as a growth engine, betting on recurring revenue, margins, and scale. A new wave of AI disruption changed the calculus. Deal pricing cooled as buyers re-evaluated synergies and integration risk. Portfolio companies face higher costs to train and embed AI into products, plus data-privacy concerns and tighter talent markets. Those that move quickly to cloud-native, AI-enabled platforms can defend margins; others face accelerated competition and churn. The shift forces funds to rethink exits, capital cycles and portfolio strategy, with emphasis on operational improvements rather than pure multiple expansion. In short, AI upended the old thesis that large software rollups would automatically unlock value for private equity.

Can a tablet replace your notebook? Tablets with pens make a strong case

February 12, 2026, 5:30 AM EST. Tablets with pen support have become core tools for creativity, planning and productivity. This guide reviews models that balance performance, display quality and reliable input. It highlights options for students, artists and professionals who rely on accurate handwriting, note-taking and annotation. Notable picks include Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Lite with an in-box S Pen, a bright AMOLED display and strong battery life, and the larger Tab S10 FE+ designed for productivity and entertainment. The emphasis is on responsive input, long battery life and regular software updates, with each entry weighing pros and cons such as camera or weight. The result: tablets that can serve as daily notebooks without unnecessary complexity.

DJI Osmo 360 gains firmware upgrade, price cut expands vertical shooting and live streaming

February 12, 2026, 5:22 AM EST. DJI has pushed a firmware update that expands the Osmo 360's creative toolbox. The upgrade unlocks native vertical shooting, livestream enhancements, Film Tone color profiles and software-based ND filter effects. The headline change is the new Single-Lens 9:16 Vertical Boost, which lets creators capture wide-angle vertical video in 2.7K or 4K with no crop and publish directly to TikTok, Reels or Shorts. Livestreaming gains: the new Single-Lens Livestream mode in DJI Mimo lets users switch between front and rear lenses during a broadcast, with a local 1080p/30fps recording saved for reference. Film Tone profiles provide mood presets; ND effects simulate motion blur and refined lighting without physical filters, via Mimo and DJI Studio, compatible with iPhone 14+ and Apple M-series Macs. The 8K 360° capture and other features remain; price cut: Adventure Combo now $511, delivery before Valentine's Day.

Software engineer warns AI's vampiric effect fueling fatigue in tech teams

February 12, 2026, 5:16 AM EST. A software engineer says artificial intelligence has a vampiric effect that drains energy as teams chase more automation. In conversations across several tech firms, developers report longer hours, heavier cognitive load, and growing fatigue as prompts, dashboards, and alerts pull attention away from deep work. The engineer describes AI tools that feel on all the time, pressuring engineers to respond to suggestions and audits at the expense of focus. Industry experts warn fatigue can arise from context switching, poor integration, and overpromising productivity. Firms are testing guardrails: clear responsibility boundaries, scheduled automation reviews, and deliberate breaks to preserve human judgment. Analysts urge monitoring of worker well-being as automation expands.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Pre-Orders: 60W Charging, Perks, and Price Rumors

February 12, 2026, 5:04 AM EST. Samsung is gearing up to unveil the Galaxy S26 family, including the Ultra. Reservations are expected in the coming weeks, with early buyers potentially snagging perks such as a $50 credit or a free 60W charging brick. Ongoing supply-chain pressures may shrink preorder bonuses compared with prior years. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is rumored to support 60W wired charging-likely requiring a new charger not included in the box-and faster wireless charging as well. Inside, the Ultra is expected to feature a boosted processor and faster memory to handle multitasking and gaming, though global memory shortages and higher costs could affect storage options and prices. Prospective buyers should monitor Samsung's announcements to lock in benefits before allocations run out.

Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tiny Gen 2 review: NVIDIA-powered 1L workstation with upgradeable internals

February 12, 2026, 5:02 AM EST. Lenovo's ThinkStation P3 Tiny Gen 2 packs a surprising punch into a 1-liter chassis. Officially positioned as an entry-level workstation, the tiny PC uses a socketed Intel Core Ultra Series CPU, removable DDR5-6400 RAM, and a PCIe expansion slot, blending workstation-grade upgradability with a compact form factor. The system ships with 32GB RAM, a 1TB PCIe 5.0 SSD, and an NVIDIA RTX A1000 8GB GPU alongside Intel Graphics, delivering mixed-graphics capability for professional apps. Cooling relies on generous ventilation across the chassis, and power comes from an external 330W PSU. Connectivity covers USB-C and USB-A fast ports, plus HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort, and multiple MiniDP outputs. While small, the P3 Tiny Gen 2 aims to bridge mini-PC convenience with workstation durability and easy serviceability.

Google ends Developer Previews with Android 17 Beta 1 delay, adopts Canary channel

February 12, 2026, 5:00 AM EST. Google has postponed Android 17 Beta 1 as it shifts away from the traditional release path toward a continuous Canary channel. In an update to Android Police, a Google spokesperson said the beta will arrive soon, not today. The move marks an end to Developer Previews, a cadence that previously prepped devices for a quarterly release. Under the new approach, features and APIs land in Canary first, with OTA updates delivering improvements rather than requiring manual flashing. Google argues the system offers faster access to new features and more battle-tested APIs, even as a March-or-later stability window remains. The change signals a broader, ongoing transition in Android's release strategy.

PlayStation XR Glasses concept argues for gaming-first AR wearables

February 12, 2026, 4:58 AM EST. Sony's PlayStation XR Glasses concept leans into gaming-first AR wearables. Designer Shirish Kumar proposes glasses that extend the PS5 ecosystem rather than broadcast the world. A virtual screen hovers above the TV, with system notifications at the edge of vision and a PS logo resting by the temple as a Start-button cue. The frames echo the PS5 and DualSense design, with blue accent lighting and a hinge that reveals button symbols. A front-facing camera, auto-adjusting lenses, and heads-up display sensors underpin basic AR overlays, plus gesture controls. Real AR gameplay would require titles built for it; for now, existing PS games could run as a private wearable monitor. The concept reframes XR as a gaming accessory, not a replacement for the console.

Top 5 Android phone deals for Presidents' Day weekend 2026

February 12, 2026, 4:50 AM EST. Presidents' Day weekend brings a slate of Android phone bargains. The piece highlights five top offers on devices from Samsung, Google Pixel, and OnePlus, largely in unlocked form. Some promos require adding an eligible line, potentially yielding a free or near-free device. The guide helps shoppers compare options across popular brands and clarify jargon: unlocked devices are not tied to a carrier; an eligible line means you must sign up with a carrier or migrate a line to qualify. Offers can fluctuate through the weekend; readers should verify terms and stock before purchase.

SpaceX pivots to Moon city, delaying Mars ambitions

February 12, 2026, 4:48 AM EST. SpaceX announced a strategic pivot to building a self-sustaining city on the Moon, not Mars, citing a shorter timeline and more frequent launch windows. CEO Elon Musk posted the update on X on Feb. 8, saying a Moon city could be achievable in less than 10 years, versus more than two decades for Mars. He argued lunar missions offer faster transit times-about 2 days to the Moon and launches possible every 10 days-allowing quicker iteration. The shift marks a sharp departure from two decades of Mars-focused public messaging, stretching back to Musk's Mars Oasis idea and the various vehicle iterations that followed, from MCT to ITS and eventually Starship.

Siemens CEO says industrial AI opportunities are very strong, arriving faster than expected

February 12, 2026, 4:44 AM EST. Siemens CEO Roland Busch said the real-world impact of AI in industrial manufacturing will arrive faster than analysts expect, as he discussed the company's latest earnings results. He framed the opportunity from industrial AI as very strong, pointing to ongoing digitalization and efficiency gains within Siemens' factories and client deployments. Busch's comments come as Siemens reports earnings numbers, emphasizing investments in software, automation and data analytics. The remarks underline a belief that practical AI uses-predictive maintenance, optimization, and automated process control-will scale quickly in manufacturing, even as the company navigates macro uncertainty.

Samsung claims early lead in AI memory chips for Nvidia

February 12, 2026, 4:42 AM EST. Bloomberg reported that Samsung Electronics has shipped the first commercial HBM4 memory chips for Nvidia's AI accelerators, signaling a return to the lead over SK Hynix in a pivotal market. The chips-the memory standard called HBM4 (high-bandwidth memory) for feeding GPUs in AI workloads-are expected to power Nvidia's Vera Rubin accelerators. Samsung said it achieved stable yields by using advanced dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) processes and 4-nm logic. The company did not name Nvidia in the release. Samsung's move comes as Micron began production of HBM4 and SK Hynix plans to start full sales in 2026. The news sent Samsung shares higher, reflecting a perceived edge in a race for AI memory supply.

Author of viral AI essay says AI helped write it, reigniting authorship debate

February 12, 2026, 4:40 AM EST. The author of a viral AI essay says AI assisted the writing, a claim that underscores the growing role of AI in online content. The writer told readers that AI helped draft the piece, raising questions about authorship and how much disclosure is expected when tools are used. Publishers and platforms are watching for how such claims influence trust, attribution, and transparency. While the piece gained wide attention, there is no independently verified disclosure about the extent of AI involvement beyond the author's statement. The episode spotlights the rapid adoption of AI writing tools and the evolving norms around credit in content creation.

iPhone Lockdown Mode explained: extreme protection for targeted individuals

February 12, 2026, 4:38 AM EST. Apple describes Lockdown Mode as an 'optional, extreme' protection tool for individuals facing highly sophisticated cyberattacks. It is not for everyone. The feature, available on iOS 16 and macOS Ventura, tightens security by curtailing or disabling select apps and features, restricting certain browser technologies, and limiting photo sharing to shrink the attack surface. The mode drew attention after the FBI said its Computer Analysis Response Team could not extract data from Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson's iPhone during a search tied to a Pentagon contractor probe. Apple emphasizes that most people will never be targeted by such attacks, and Lockdown Mode remains a niche option for those at risk.

Motorola Razr Ultra price drop: $500-$600 Presidents' Day deal at Best Buy

February 12, 2026, 4:36 AM EST. Motorola's Razr Ultra (2025) is discounted by $500 at Best Buy during Presidents' Day, with a potential $600 off when activating on AT&T or Verizon through Best Buy. The price drops to $799.99 on the site, about $100 below Black Friday levels; an activation deal could bring it down to $699.99. The foldable phone features two pOLED screens, a titanium-reinforced hinge, and a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, plus 512GB storage, AI features and strong battery life. Camera tech includes an ultrawide sensor. In reviews, the Razr Ultra is praised for its design and performance relative to rivals like the Galaxy Z Flip 7, though it offers fewer software updates (four years vs seven).

Quantum rumor about Bitcoin overstated; investors warned

February 12, 2026, 4:30 AM EST. Rumors that a quantum computer could crack Bitcoin's cryptography sparked a sell-off, but the claim is unfounded today. Bitcoin's February volatility stemmed from deleveraging, forced liquidations and ETF outflows, not a quantum breach. A single large sale-reported as about $9 billion-was later shown to be unrelated to the panic. Modern quantum computers are far from capable of breaking Bitcoin's digital signatures or influencing mining; they are costly, experimental and confined largely to government labs and academia. Investors with a long horizon should stay cool during turbulence and distrust sensational online chatter. While a future quantum threat remains a theoretical risk, there is no imminent vulnerability in the current network. The lesson: verify claims, separate fear from fundamentals, and avoid selling on rumors.

WiVRn Linux release boosts wireless VR streaming with tracking improvements

February 12, 2026, 4:28 AM EST. WiVRn's latest Linux release, version 26.2, upgrades wireless VR streaming to a standalone headset from a Linux PC. The update tightens head and controller tracking accuracy and adds SlimeVR support, along with numerous bug fixes and minor features. WiVRn already offered low-latency video transmission, eye-tracked foveated encoding, hand tracking and mixed setups with lighthouse devices; the 26.2 release expands those capabilities. The project remains open source, with server components in Fedora, NixOS, Arch User Repository, Gentoo Guru and Flathub, and client builds on the Meta store for Quest and as APK for other vendors. WayVR is also available for desktop access in VR. The information comes from GamingOnLinux, with the LVRA site and community channels referenced, and the author notes he hasn't tested wireless streaming on a Valve Index.

Satellite imagery points to possible Russian Oreshnik missile site in Belarus

February 12, 2026, 4:26 AM EST. New satellite imagery reviewed by RFE/RL's Belarus service points to a growing military site near Krychau, Belarus, that could host a nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile system in a former airfield. The images, captured by Planet Labs on February 9, show six large vehicles and two hangars matching launchers and support vehicles described in official videos. Defense analysts warn of ambiguity: it could be genuine deployment, or a potential deception. Belarus and Russia have said the Oreshnik would be deployed in Belarus but have not disclosed locations. Researchers including Decker Eveleth of CNA and Defense Express' Ivan Kirichevskiy note progress since August 2025 and caution that fake positions cannot be ruled out.

Mewtwo Teased as GO Fest 2026 Tokyo Venue Confirmed at Press Conference

February 12, 2026, 4:20 AM EST. GO Fest 2026 lands in Tokyo across four connected parks: Odaiba Seaside Park, Symbol Promenade Park, and Shiokaze Park in the bay area, creating a single walkable festival zone. Sessions run Morning Session: 10:00 AM-2:00 PM and Afternoon Session: 4:00 PM-8:00 PM with a two-hour transition. Details may still change before the March reveal. Mewtwo headlines a teaser and exclusive encounters are promised for each host city, while Global Challenges return for worldwide participation. Early hints point to Articuno, Zapdos and Moltres across cities. A Tokyo staff member underscored Mewtwo's prominence, signaling a potentially new form, raid or throwback-still unconfirmed.

Texas EV roundup: Tesla V2G access, WeChat OTA, Toyota Highlander EV, and solid-state battery JV

February 12, 2026, 4:16 AM EST. Electrek reports a Texas-focused Quick Charge episode: Tesla Cybertruck owners gain V2G access; Model 3 and Y receive OTA updates to support WeChat. Toyota introduces an all-electric Highlander with up to 320 miles of range. A JV between Idemitsu Kosan and Sumitomo Metal Mining aims to scale up solid-state battery production for Toyota. The episode also notes promotions on new Toyota EVs, including up to $5,000 off and 0% financing. The moves highlight how automakers are linking charging, messaging apps, and next-gen batteries to accelerate electrification.

Google: Gemini targeted by distillation attacks, 100,000+ prompts

February 12, 2026, 4:02 AM EST. Google says its Gemini AI chatbot drew a flood of "commercially motivated" probes in a bid to clone it. In a Thursday report, the company described distillation attacks-repeated questions meant to reveal a model's inner patterns-known as model extraction. One campaign prompted Gemini more than 100,000 times. Google says the attackers appear to be private companies or researchers seeking a competitive edge, likely from around the world, but declined to name suspects. Analysts say such probes could become common against smaller firms' AI tools. John Hultquist of Google's Threat Intelligence Group called the company a canary in the coal mine. The episode shows how valuable a model's inner workings can be, even as protections exist. OpenAI faced similar accusations against a Chinese rival.

D-Wave Quantum bets on annealing as quantum race intensifies

February 12, 2026, 3:58 AM EST. D-Wave Quantum is betting on a specialized path: quantum annealing, a hardware approach that seeks low-energy states to yield optimal answers, rather than a universal quantum computer. The move makes it a pure-play on quantum annealing and optimization, with a market cap around $6.8 billion. A Fortune 100 company recently signed a $10 million, two-year deal to test D-Wave's capabilities, a potential spark for larger business if successful. Industry forecasts vary, but McKinsey sees a $72 billion annual market by 2035. Yet skeptics warn many pure-plays may fail, and dominant tech companies with vast resources loom. D-Wave's narrower hardware bet could win in time, or be overwhelmed by competition. The equity remains high-risk, high-reward as the quantum race unfolds.

Nigeria taps chatbots for mental-health support amid underfunded system

February 12, 2026, 3:56 AM EST. Joy Adeboye in Abuja turned to a WhatsApp chatbot named Chat Kemi for help after a stalker's threats, illustrating a growing reliance on AI-driven mental-health support as Nigeria's public system remains underfunded. With health spending far below the Abuja Declaration target and only 262 psychiatrists for 240 million people, many cannot access in-person care. Private sessions can cost around 50,000 naira, and more than 90% of Nigerians lack health insurance. NGOs such as HerSafeSpace offer free emotional support and legal aid, filling a gap as people seek anonymity and immediacy online. Experts caution about mixed evidence from early trials in the US and stress safeguards against abuse, privacy risks and misinformation while digital tools expand access.

Nvidia's trillion-dollar dinner and the race for AI users in China

February 12, 2026, 3:54 AM EST. NVIDIA hosted a high-profile dinner with Chinese partners as it seeks to deepen its footprint in China's AI market, where domestic rivals and policy aims shape user access. The conversation underscores the tug-of-war between American chip suppliers and a fast-growing local ecosystem that wants self-sufficiency in AI software and chips. Executives talked about expanding data-center demand for GPUs, software toolchains, and cloud partnerships, while regulators probe export controls and data rules that could slow cross-border collaboration. Analysts say the moment highlights how AI users in China may choose between global platforms and homegrown alternatives, with NVIDIA betting on CUDA-accelerated workflows and a broader ecosystem of developers and hyperscalers. The outcome could tilt who wins the next wave of AI adoption in China.

Nvidia mulls new Shield TV with HDR10+ and modern codecs

February 12, 2026, 3:48 AM EST. Nvidia is exploring a newer Shield TV with updated capabilities. In an Ars Technica interview, Nvidia's Andrew Bell said the company is weighing refreshed hardware that would support AV1 and multiple HDR formats, including Samsung's HDR10+ for local playback and newer Dolby Vision profiles. CEO Jensen Huang has pledged effectively lifetime software support for Shield TV, and there are no plans to discontinue existing models. The current Shield TV remains a leading Android TV box, powered by a Tegra processor with four Cortex-A57 cores and a capable GPU. A future model could pair well with Samsung displays seeking broader HDR options.

UK satellite data startup The Compression Company raises $3.4 million led by Long Journey

February 12, 2026, 3:46 AM EST. UK satellite-data start-up The Compression Company, which compresses data onboard to shrink files by more than 95%, has raised $3.4 million led by Long Journey, an early backer of SpaceX, Uber and Anduril. The round also includes support from Entrepreneur First. The company says its AI-driven approach preserves bandwidth for the highest-value information as space-generated data grows across climate monitoring, disaster response, defence, agriculture and logistics. With more than 5,000 Earth-observation (EO) satellites expected in the next decade, only about 2% of recorded data is transmitted to Earth. Co-founders Michael Stanway and Joe Griffith (Imperial College London) describe a software-first solution that compresses data in orbit to unlock more useful information from existing satellites.

Tesla Semi final specs show 60% charge in 30 minutes with up to 1.2 MW charging

February 12, 2026, 3:42 AM EST. Tesla released final specs for the production-ready Semi. Two trims: Standard Range, 325 miles at 82,000 pounds, and Long Range, 500 miles with larger packs. Efficiency is about 1.7 kWh per mile, roughly 550 kWh for Standard Range and 875 kWh for Long Range. Both trucks support the Megawatt Charging System (MCS), a high-power charging standard, with the Long Range variant up to 1.2 MW. Both reach about 60% charge in 30 minutes. Tesla has not disclosed exact battery sizes, and pricing remains unclear; early chatter points to higher street prices than the initial $150k/$180k targets. After a long wait, the Semi now has locked specs and real production, offering a potentially lower-cost, higher-efficiency option for logistics.

Bay Area AI startup hires Central Valley contractors to train AI models

February 12, 2026, 3:40 AM EST. San Francisco-based startup Mercor is recruiting remote contractors in the Central Valley, including Clovis, to help train AI systems. The project-based roles span writers, accountants, doctors and voice actors. Contractors complete real-world tasks, and the AI models compare their answers to human responses to refine training. Mercor says it operates as an AI talent marketplace and works with major AI labs, with funding described in public reports as billions of dollars. The move prompts questions about the workforce impact, though Fresno leaders say such shifts reshape jobs rather than eliminate them. FOX26 notes the outlet tested Mercor's own interview system and was accepted as a contractor. The arrangement is remote and project-based, part of broader discussions as AI expands across industries.

TiLink bracelet turns Apple Watch strap into a 24-tool EDC kit

February 12, 2026, 3:38 AM EST. TiLink is a 24-in-1 titanium bracelet that doubles as a watch strap, turning the wearer's wrist into a tool belt. Woods Design says it fits lug widths 18-26 mm, compatible with Apple Watch, Garmin, Samsung, Google Pixel and many analog watches. Crafted from GR5 aerospace-grade titanium, the 230.5 mm bracelet weighs 138.8 g and is CNC-machined for precision. It embeds three flathead screwdrivers (SL3, SL4, SL5), hex bit holders for 4 mm and 6.35 mm bits, and a 4 mm extension bar to reach recessed fasteners. The design trades a sleeker look for utility, touting corrosion resistance and long-term durability. Designer: Russell Wu. Price: $179 from $259; promo notes limited availability.

SpaceX backer funds UK satellite data compression startup

February 12, 2026, 3:32 AM EST. UK satellite data start-up The Compression Company has raised $3.4 million in a funding round led by Long Journey, an early SpaceX backer that has also backed Uber and Anduril. The company uses AI-driven compression that runs onboard satellites to shrink file sizes by more than 95%, addressing bandwidth bottlenecks as the space data boom expands. Earth observation (EO) satellites are expected to number more than 5,000 in the next decade; current transmission estimates suggest only about 2% of captured data is sent to Earth, with rest delayed or discarded. The startup, founded last year and backed previously by Entrepreneur First, says its software-first approach preserves bandwidth for high-value data. CEO Michael Stanway and CTO Joe Griffith founded the company after meeting at Imperial College London. Long Journey's Lee Jacobs called the project technically ambitious and immediately useful.

Musk eyes lunar factory and mass driver to power AI satellites

February 12, 2026, 3:30 AM EST. New York Times reports that Elon Musk told employees at xAI that a Moon factory would churn out AI satellites, paired with an enormous electromagnetic mass driver to launch them. The plan envisions orbital data centers tapping solar energy and a vast AI satellite constellation described as a 'sentient sun.' Musk frames the Moon as a stepping stone to Mars, despite long-running skepticism about lunar missions. SpaceX's acquisition of xAI signals a pivot ahead of a planned IPO. He has repeatedly cast interplanetary ambitions as the path to scale, though the proposal marks a rare pivot toward lunar infrastructure for AI power.

Digiday AI Marketing Strategies event highlights training, human oversight and internal tensions

February 12, 2026, 3:26 AM EST. At Digiday's AI Marketing Strategies event in New York, marketers, brands and tech firms discussed how AI tools and chatbots are reshaping daily workflows. Key themes: train workers to use AI rather than rely on it, empower publishers with agent tools, preserve the human touch, and bridge internal divides around AI. The session operated under Chatham House rules, and quotes were shared anonymously. Participants warned against hype, comparing the AI bubble to past tech cycles, while stressing tangible results and problem-solving applications. Executives described balancing efficiency gains with the need for human judgment, mentorship for junior staff, and ongoing education about where AI helps-and where it can mislead. Attendees urged experimentation aligned with client brands and accuracy.

Digiday AI Marketing Strategies in NYC weighs AI adoption, training and ethics

February 12, 2026, 3:24 AM EST. New York City hosted marketers, brands and tech firms for Digiday's AI Marketing Strategies event, focusing on how teams deploy AI tools and how employees and customers feel about them. Held under Chatham House rules, attendees could share comments but not identify speakers. The discussion centered on four themes: training workers to use AI rather than rely on it; how publishers can use agents' tools; the enduring importance of the human touch; and bridging internal divides around AI. Participants warned that hype may fade and only tangible results will endure. Leaders stressed that cutting resources hurts the human craft; younger staff often need senior review and mentorship to critique outputs. Companies encourage experimentation, but seek brand alignment and accuracy.

Chesapeake completes 18-mile regional broadband ring portion, advances city network

February 12, 2026, 3:16 AM EST. CHESAPEAKE – The city completed its 18-mile portion of a regional broadband ring linking south Hampton Roads cities, part of a project spanning more than 100 miles. The Southside Network Authority now owns Chesapeake's segment after a Feb. 10, 2026 City Council vote; the city will be reimbursed about $1.7 million. The ring also connects to undersea transatlantic cables landing in Virginia Beach, aiming to spur the regional economy by attracting high-tech firms and more providers. Separately, Chesapeake is building a citywide network called Chesapeake Connects, designed to serve more than 200 city offices and schools; the full network is to exceed 170 miles and should be completed by year's end. Officials say private providers can begin tapping into Chesapeake Connects by spring 2027.

Digital burnout drives youth toward single-use devices like flip phones and MP3 players

February 12, 2026, 3:14 AM EST. Young people are retreating from the all-in-one smartphone to single-purpose tech as a response to digital burnout. Basic phones, standalone cameras, MP3 players and e-readers are re-emerging to reduce notifications and algorithmic feeds. Proponents say these devices help capture meaningful moments, listen to music without distractions, and simplify daily routines. Data show overall increases in mobile use, with Canadians rising from about 3.2 hours a day in 2019 to 5.65 hours in 2023; surveys also find many check their phones first thing in the morning and last before bed. The trend signals digital minimalism rather than abstinence, as users seek intentional, focused experiences.

Mario Tennis Fever gets day-one update to Version 1.0.1 on Switch 2

February 12, 2026, 3:12 AM EST. Nintendo's patch notes for Mario Tennis Fever on Switch 2 confirm a day-one update to Version 1.0.1 that fixes issues but do not detail changes. The update is required to access Switch Online; after updating, players won't be able to play locally or via LAN with older versions, so everyone should run the same patch for online sessions. Our reviewer noted the adventure mode is thin, but the game has depth and strategy that could keep online play active. Nintendo also released new Switch Online icons at launch, with weekly waves through 11 March 2026-each icon costs 10 Platinum Points, and borders/backgrounds cost 5 Platinum Points. Will you pick up Mario Tennis Fever now?

Counterpoint: 2026 set for sustainable rise in foldable smartphones

February 12, 2026, 3:10 AM EST. Counterpoint analysts say the foldable smartphone market is entering a sustainable expansion in 2026 after a cyclical rebound. The year will bring a more aggressive push into the foldables segment. Book-style foldables now account for about 52% of sales and are seen rising to 65% this year, thanks to hardware improvements that strengthen their case as productivity devices rather than mere tech showcases. The report highlights Apple's planned foldable iPhone this fall as a catalyst for growth. Rivals are expected to roll out wider book-style models to directly compete with the anticipated iPhone Fold; Samsung is expanding its book-style lineup, with rumors about Honor and Oppo weighing in. Clamshell designs remain in second tier as complementary devices in the style-led and entry-premium markets.

SpaceX, xAI and Tesla weigh merger options, reports say

February 12, 2026, 3:08 AM EST. Three of Elon Musk's companies-SpaceX, xAI and Tesla-are in early talks about a potential merger, per Bloomberg and Reuters. Two scenarios are under discussion: a SpaceX-Tesla merger or a SpaceX-xAI combination, potentially preceding an IPO. Reuters says a merger could fold one company into SpaceX, while Bloomberg notes unnamed insiders. Nevada filings on January 21 for K2 Merger Sub Inc. and K2 Merger Sub 2 LLC indicate Musk is keeping options open. A SpaceX-xAI tie could place data centers in space, and a SpaceX-Tesla link could connect energy storage with that vision. Last year, SpaceX and Tesla each invested $2 billion in xAI; xAI bought X. SpaceX's private valuation has been cited near $800 billion. FT reports a June SpaceX IPO target.

Nvidia stock outlook: five-year view amid sustained AI data-center spend

February 12, 2026, 3:06 AM EST. Five-year prospects for Nvidia hinge on the durability of AI spending by hyperscalers. Goldman Sachs and industry data flag sustained capex on data-center equipment in 2026, with Nvidia's GPUs remaining central to those builds. Alphabet and Amazon have signaled multi-year capex remains large, underscoring near-term tailwinds for Nvidia. Yet investors fear the spending cycle could slow, squeezing cash flow that might otherwise fund buybacks or dividends. Nvidia trades at a forward P/E around 22, a modest multiple given recent growth: Q4 revenue rose 62% year over year and EPS climbed 67%. Some analysts say the stock could command a higher multiple if AI spending proves durable, while others warn the model faces longer-term sustainability questions.

Quantum gate breakthrough uses single optical component in linear optics

February 12, 2026, 3:04 AM EST. Researchers from the University of Science and Technology Beijing and the Beijing Institute of Technology, led by Gui-Long Jiang, Jun-Bin Yuan and Wen-Qiang Liu, demonstrate deterministic quantum gates using hybrid linear optics. They encode information in both polarization and spatial modes, enabling a CNOT gate with a single polarization beam splitter and a generalized Fredkin gate built from beam splitters alone. The architecture claims an optical depth of one, independent of system dimension, and does not require ancillary qubits or measurement-induced nonlinearities. Reported fidelity exceeds 99.7% under realistic conditions. The work presents a practical path to scalable photonic circuits, offering high-fidelity, resource-efficient gates for quantum algorithms, cryptography, and fault-tolerant computing.

Taiwan's AI-fueled economy under pressure from bubble fears and Beijing tensions

February 12, 2026, 3:00 AM EST. Taiwan's economy rides high on AI demand and chipmakers, with Nvidia planning a Taiwan HQ and chief executive Jensen Huang calling the island the center of the world's computer ecosystem. Last year, gross domestic product grew 8.6% and a trade deal lowered U.S. tariffs to 15% from 20%. Still, observers warn the surge could be an AI-driven bubble focused on technology exports. NTU economist Wu Tsong-min cautions that growth depends on continued AI demand and investment. Taiwan remains exposed to cross-strait tensions with Beijing, even as TSMC dominates advanced-chip production and Foxconn expands AI data-center equipment. ING's Lynn Song says the risk is that growth remains very contingent on the AI boom.

Mustafa Suleyman plots AI 'self-sufficiency' as Microsoft loosens OpenAI ties

February 12, 2026, 2:58 AM EST. Mustafa Suleyman, the AI entrepreneur behind Inflection AI, signals a push toward greater AI self-sufficiency as Microsoft cools its ties with OpenAI. The shift underscores a broader industry swing from single-vendor dominance toward more diversified platforms and in-house capabilities. Suleyman argues that independent model ecosystems could reduce concentration risk and speed deployment of customized tools for organizations. Microsoft's recalibration of its OpenAI partnerships could widen the field for standalone AI stacks, alongside rival offerings. Analysts say the moves could spur new investment in independent inference, data licensing, and governance frameworks. The reporting notes the tension between platform-scale models and enterprise autonomy remains a central battleground for the AI industry.

Apple patches exploited zero-day affecting iOS, macOS and other devices

February 12, 2026, 2:56 AM EST. Apple issued updates across iOS, iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, tvOS, watchOS and visionOS to fix a zero-day now exploited in targeted attacks. The flaw, CVE-2026-20700, is a memory corruption issue in dyld, potentially allowing remote code execution. Google Threat Analysis Group found and reported the bug. Apple warned the issue may have been exploited against specific individuals on older iOS versions. Related vulnerabilities-CVE-2025-14174 (out-of-bounds memory access in ANGLE/Metal) and CVE-2025-43529 (WebKit use-after-free)-were addressed in December 2025. The updates apply to iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, macOS Tahoe 26.3, tvOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3 and visionOS 26.3, marking Apple's first actively exploited zero-day of 2026 after nine patched in 2025.

Computer History Museum to mark Apple's 50th anniversary with Apple@50 programs and exhibit

February 12, 2026, 2:54 AM EST. The Computer History Museum announced Apple@50 to mark Apple's 50th anniversary. The program includes special activities, an exhibit of rare prototypes, and digital stories from the collection, with sign-up for email notifications for updates. The museum noted Tim Cook referenced plans from Apple but offered few specifics. The milestone traces back to April 1, 1976 and underscores the company's influence on products, culture and daily tech use. Separately, David Pogue plans a forthcoming book, Apple: The First 50 Years, due next month and available for pre-order. Details on opening dates remain pending; visitors to the Bay Area may find time for a visit.

Ring's Super Bowl ad for Search Party sparks privacy concerns over AI dog-finding feature

February 12, 2026, 2:52 AM EST. Ring's Super Bowl ad for 'Search Party' promotes an AI-powered feature that scans cloud footage from nearby Ring cameras to locate a missing dog. The campaign frames the effort as a family-friendly rescue, with founder Jamie Siminoff saying more than a dog a day has been reunited. Critics, including privacy expert Chris Gilliard, warn the campaign risks normalizing widespread networked surveillance by a company with ties to law enforcement. Ring describes safeguards: the search is triggered by a post in the app, activates nearby cameras, notifies the camera's owner only, and the footage search is temporary and expires after a few hours. Privacy advocates question the role of facial recognition and the broader privacy implications of the feature.

New spyware ZeroDayRAT tracks everything on Android and iPhone, researchers warn

February 12, 2026, 2:50 AM EST. Researchers describe ZeroDayRAT as a spyware platform capable of accessing cameras, microphones, notifications and text messages on both Android and iOS devices. Infected phones relay nearly all data to a backend, with a live activity timeline shown on the dashboard and a complete device profile, including location history. The tool is marketed openly on Telegram and can be used with little technical skill, heightening risk. It also taps banking apps and personal contacts. Analysts warn that traditional defenses depend on installing only from official stores. To reduce risk, avoid unsolicited links, keep OS and apps updated, review permissions, and disable sideloading-the practice of installing apps from outside App Store or Google Play. Stay vigilant about elusive spyware that targets both platforms.

MIT's Gómez-Bombarelli: AI and simulations accelerate science to a second inflection point

February 12, 2026, 2:46 AM EST. MIT materials science professor Rafael Gómez-Bombarelli argues we are at a second inflection point for science, driven by blending physics-based simulations with AI and generative models. His work spans discovering new materials for batteries, catalysts, plastics, and OLEDs, using ML to scale from molecules to synthesis. He cofounded several startups and is building a platform at his new company, Lila Sciences, to create a general scientific intelligence for life sciences, chemistry, and materials science. The program mixes language-model reasoning with material-structure analysis and synthesis recipes, aiming to make research faster and more productive. Gómez-Bombarelli's path-from chemistry at the University of Salamanca to a postdoc in Scotland and collaboration with Alán Aspuru-Guzik-highlights a career built on bridging experiments and simulations.

AI CEO warns disruption could be much bigger than COVID

February 12, 2026, 2:44 AM EST. A leading AI executive warns that the current wave of AI deployment could upend business models and labor markets on a scale larger than the COVID-19 pandemic. The chief executive cited rapid adoption, cost savings, and productivity gains across sectors as drivers of sweeping change, from finance and healthcare to manufacturing and customer service. He urged policymakers to act on retraining programs, stronger safety standards, and clearer governance to manage risks without throttling innovation. Firms are accelerating investments in AI, while investors watch for regulatory cues and potential shocks to jobs and supply chains.

SpaceX says Chinese satellites prompted collision-avoidance moves by Starlink

February 12, 2026, 2:38 AM EST. SpaceX said its Starlink network conducted nearly 149,000 collision-avoidance maneuvers last year after Chinese satellites and debris forced avoidance moves. In a December 31 filing with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Starlink logged 148,696 maneuvers from June 1 to November 30. Seven Chinese objects among the top 20 space objects triggered 3,732 adjustments. The data highlight safety challenges posed by rival mega-constellations and space debris, which drive fuel burn and shorten satellite lifespans. SpaceX argues such activity underscores the need for robust tracking and rules to prevent on-orbit conflicts, while observers note the growing congestion in low-Earth orbit as more satellite networks come online.

SpaceX says Chinese satellites drove thousands of Starlink collision-avoidance maneuvers, per FCC filing

February 12, 2026, 2:36 AM EST. SpaceX said its Starlink network carried out 148,696 collision-avoidance maneuvers between June 1 and November 30 last year, according to an FCC filing dated December 31. The maneuvers protect satellites from collisions but burn fuel and shorten lifespans. Seven Chinese satellites among the top 20 objects forced adjustments, accounting for 3,732 maneuvers. The disclosure underscores safety concerns raised by rival megaconstellations and the growing risk from space debris. SpaceX also noted that such events can affect service continuity and periodic maintenance. The filing is part of regulatory submissions detailing orbital traffic and safety as more players launch large satellite constellations.

Apple updates older macOS and iOS with security patches, aligning with 26.3 cycle

February 12, 2026, 2:34 AM EST. Apple rolled out security updates for older branches on February 11, extending fixes to macOS Sonoma, macOS Sequoia and iOS 18.7.5 in step with the 26.3 patch cycle. Security content notes show CVE patches across shared components, including CoreAudio, CoreMedia, CFNetwork, the kernel, Sandbox, Wi-Fi and ImageIO. Key fixes include CVE-2026-20611 (CoreAudio memory corruption), CVE-2026-20609 (CoreMedia DoS/memory disclosure), CVE-2026-20660 (CFNetwork arbitrary file write), CVE-2026-20671 (kernel network interception), CVE-2026-20621 (Wi-Fi kernel memory corruption), CVE-2026-20628 (Sandbox escape) and CVE-2026-20634/20675 (ImageIO memory/data disclosure). Apple says there are no known exploitation signals. Users can install via Settings > General > Software Update on their respective devices. The company continues to patch older generations in tandem with current releases.

Nvidia's $20 billion Groq deal raises questions about Loeffler investment weeks earlier

February 12, 2026, 2:32 AM EST. Small business Administrator Kelly Loeffler invested $3 million in Groq, a privately held AI-chip startup, in October 2025 via Descante Capital LLC, a vehicle tied to her Georgia residence. The funding came as Groq was raising a $750 million round and weeks before a December licensing agreement worth about $20 billion with Nvidia. The disclosure reviewed by NOTUS shows Loeffler does not manage her investments under an SBA ethics agreement, according to spokesperson Caitlin O'Dea, who declined to offer details on prior knowledge of the Nvidia-Groq deal. Critics say the timing invites scrutiny given Nvidia's ties to the Trump administration and potential insider information concerns. Ethics advocate Craig Holman cited past public-sourced ethics questions, noting Loeffler's 2020 stock sales after a closed briefing.

SpaceX says Chinese satellites drove Starlink collision-avoidance maneuvers

February 12, 2026, 2:30 AM EST. SpaceX said its Starlink fleet performed 148,696 collision-avoidance maneuvers between June 1 and November 30 last year, prompted by Chinese satellites and debris. In a filing with the FCC dated December 31, seven Chinese objects among the top 20 required 3,732 maneuvers. SpaceX warns such adjustments burn fuel and shorten a satellite's lifespan. The figures surface amid safety concerns voiced by rivals about megaconstellations, and they illustrate the near-miss traffic that raises costs and stresses for the fleet.

Loeffler investment in Groq ahead of Nvidia deal draws ethics scrutiny

February 12, 2026, 2:28 AM EST. Small-business administrator Kelly Loeffler invested $3 million in the privately held AI chip maker Groq as part of a October 2025 round led by private funds. The investment was made through Descante Capital LLC, a holding vehicle tied to Loeffler's Georgia residence, according to a government disclosure obtained by NOTUS. Weeks later, in December, Groq agreed to a $20 billion cash licensing deal with Nvidia, the leading chipmaker. SBA spokesperson Caitlin O'Dea said Loeffler does not manage her investments under her ethics agreement. Critics, including Public Citizen's Craig Holman, questioned potential insider access given Loeffler's public role and ties to the Trump administration. The episode echoes past scrutiny of Loeffler's financial moves during her time in public life.

Apple releases security updates for macOS Sonoma, Sequoia and iOS 18.7.5 alongside 26.3 cycle

February 12, 2026, 2:26 AM EST. Apple on Feb. 11 released security updates for older Mac and iPhone software: macOS Sonoma 14.8.4, macOS Sequoia 15.7.4, and iOS 18.7.5, alongside the broader 26.3 cycle that covers macOS Tahoe 26.3, iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3 and visionOS 26.3. The patches address multiple CVEs across shared components, including CoreAudio, CoreMedia, CFNetwork, the kernel, Sandbox, Wi-Fi, and ImageIO. Notably, the advisories do not show signs of active exploitation. CVEs cited include CVE-2026-20611, CVE-2026-20609, CVE-2026-20660, CVE-2026-20671, CVE-2026-20621, CVE-2026-20628, and CVE-2026-20634/20675. Apple emphasizes continued security maintenance for current and older OS generations, with patches issued on the same day across platforms. Users on Sonoma or Sequoia can install via System Settings; iPhones on iOS 18 can update via Settings.

Apple patches older macOS and iOS with 26.3 cycle in February updates

February 12, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. Apple released security updates on February 11 for older branches: macOS Sonoma 14.8.4, macOS Sequoia 15.7.4, and iOS 18.7.5, alongside the 26.3 cycle for Tahoe, iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3 and visionOS 26.3. The security content pages show CVEs across shared components, including CoreAudio, CoreMedia, CFNetwork, the kernel, Sandbox, Wi-Fi and ImageIO. Notable flaws include CVE-2026-20611 (memory corruption in CoreAudio), CVE-2026-20609 (CoreMedia DoS or memory disclosure), CVE-2026-20660 (CFNetwork file write), CVE-2026-20671 (kernel network interception), CVE-2026-20621 (Wi-Fi memory corruption), and CVE-2026-20628, CVE-2026-20634, CVE-2026-20675 (Sandbox and ImageIO issues). Apple says there's no evidence these were exploited. Users can install via System Settings > General > Software Update on macOS or iOS devices. The patches show Apple's policy of coordinating fixes across generations, even if devices aren't on the latest major version.

Nvidia-Groq $20B deal follows Loeffler investment, drawing ethics scrutiny

February 12, 2026, 2:18 AM EST. Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler invested $3 million in the private AI-chip startup Groq through Descante Capital LLC, just before Groq reached a $20 billion licensing deal with Nvidia. The October 2025 stake, disclosed in a government document reviewed by NOTUS, was in private stock shares via a limited liability company that also serves as Loeffler's Georgia home holding. A SBA spokesperson said Loeffler does not manage her investments and adheres to ethics rules; the portfolio is independently managed. Critics, including Public Citizen's Craig Holman, question coincidence and potential insider access given Loeffler's public office and Nvidia's Trump-era ties. The report relies on the NOTUS document and statements from SBA and named critics.

Wildlight lays off most staff two weeks after Highguard launch

February 12, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. Wildlight Entertainment reportedly laid off most of its staff just over two weeks after the multiplayer shooter Highguard launched. Former level designer Alex Graner said the majority of the team was let go; a former lead tech artist corroborated. The studio said it kept a core group to continue development and support the game. Highguard, first revealed at The Game Awards and launched January 26, drew about 100,000 concurrent players on Steam on day one but now sits around 2,400, according to SteamDB. The company added a permanent 5v5 mode after an initial three-player setup. The layoffs come as Riot Games cut about 80 workers on a separate live-service project.

Wildlight layoffs hit most staff two weeks after Highguard launch

February 12, 2026, 2:08 AM EST. Wildlight Entertainment laid off most of its staff just over two weeks after the multiplayer shooter Highguard launched, according to posts on LinkedIn. Former level designer Alex Graner said 'most of the team at Wildlight' were let go, a claim corroborated by former lead tech artist Josh Sobel. Wildlight issued a statement saying it kept a core group to 'continue innovating on and supporting the game.' Highguard debuted at The Game Awards and drew nearly 100,000 concurrent players on Steam at launch, but the game now has about 2,400 concurrent players and a Mixed rating. The company added a 5v5 mode after a 3-player start. Earlier this week, Riot Games laid off about 80 from its new 2XKO project, highlighting a broader cutback in live-service games.

Pokémon Pokopia blends Pokémon with Minecraft-style building on Nintendo Switch 2

February 12, 2026, 1:56 AM EST. Pokémon Pokopia, a cozy-core blend of Pokémon and Minecraft, is headed to Nintendo Switch 2 in March from The Pokémon Company, Game Freak, and Koei Tecmo. In a hands-on preview, the game was described as town-building and exploration with a goofy premise, playable solo or online with friends. The project fuses creature collection with block-based construction, aiming to hook long sessions of play. The announcement highlights ongoing collaboration among Nintendo's new hardware, Game Freak's Pokémon discipline, and Koei Tecmo's action-building know-how. Mashable's Alex Perry notes fans have long wondered why such a title wasn't made sooner, and hints that Ditto could become an icon as the game centers on transforming environments around Pokémon.

Pokémon Pokopia merges Pokémon with Minecraft, launching March on Nintendo Switch 2

February 12, 2026, 1:54 AM EST. Mashable tech reporter Alex Perry previews Pokémon Pokopia, a Pokémon-themed cozy-core adventure from The Pokémon Company, Game Freak, and Koei Tecmo. The game fuses Pokémon lore with sandbox building, offering town-building and online play in a blocky, Minecraft-like world. Perry says a one-hour preview left him convinced that fans will sink dozens of hours into the title. The game is slated for the Nintendo Switch 2 in March. The developers promise a light, accessible experience that emphasizes exploration, battles, and collaboration, with Ditto reimagined in a playful style.

Minnesota reports drop in highway deaths after AI camera rollout on Highway 7

February 12, 2026, 1:52 AM EST. State officials say a new artificial intelligence camera system along Highway 7 between St. Louis Park and St. Bonifacius is catching distracted drivers and contributing to fewer fatal crashes. The technology, highlighted after years of community effort to improve that stretch, is designed to deter unsafe behavior by motorists. Reporter Jason Rantala explains how the system operates and what it means for road safety. Officials describe the rollout as life-saving for a highway long identified as high risk, while residents weigh questions about privacy and local impact. The program represents a broader push to use automation in traffic safety, pairing technology with public outreach and enforcement to change driver behavior.

Wildlight confirms layoffs at Highguard studio; core team to continue development

February 12, 2026, 1:50 AM EST. Wildlight Entertainment confirmed layoffs at its Highguard studio on social media. In a statement, the company said it ended roles for a number of staff while keeping a core group to continue innovating on and supporting the game. The firm did not disclose how many employees were affected. Former Highguard level designer Alex Graner posted on LinkedIn that he and most of the team were laid off, noting unreleased content. Wildlight's release cadence and content roadmap remain unclear. Highguard launched as a free-to-play raid shooter on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC on January 26, and received mixed reception. Game Informer recently covered Episode 2 content and pressed Wildlight for comment on layoffs and staffing.

Minnesota reports drop in highway deaths after AI camera rollout on Highway 7

February 12, 2026, 1:48 AM EST. MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota officials say deaths along Highway 7 between St. Louis Park and St. Bonifacius have fallen since the rollout of an AI camera enforcement system. The technology detects distracted driving and other unsafe behavior, and has been catching hundreds of violations. The program caps years of work by state agencies and local communities to curb danger on a stretch long identified as high risk. Officials say the decline in fatalities follows the cameras going live along the corridor, underscoring what data-driven enforcement can achieve on challenging roads.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold restock eyed in US before February Unpacked, report says

February 12, 2026, 1:46 AM EST. According to a Korean report, Samsung will bring back the Galaxy Z TriFold in the US before the end of the month, possibly ahead of the February 25 Unpacked event where the Galaxy S26 lineup debuts. The first dual-folding device, priced at $2,899, sold out quickly in Korea and the United States due to extremely limited stock. The TriFold features a 10-inch folding AMOLED display (1584×2160) with 120Hz, a Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, a 6.5-inch cover screen, a 200MP main camera with OIS, a 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom, a 12MP ultrawide, two 10MP selfies, and a 5,600 mAh battery with 45W wired and 15W wireless charging, running Android 16 with One UI 8. Source: Korean report.

Apple delays personalized Siri features; testing shifts to iOS 26.5 and 27, Bloomberg reports

February 12, 2026, 1:44 AM EST. Apple has again paused a planned, more contextual Siri upgrade, delaying personalized features nearly a year after they were first slated. Bloomberg says the changes, intended for iOS 26.4 to understand user context and act on-screen clues, were scrapped after testing uncovered fresh problems. Engineers are now told to test those features in iOS 26.5, planned for May. The company is also evaluating a Perplexity-like web search tool and custom image generation for iOS 26.5, Bloomberg added, with tests run alongside 26.4. Separately, Apple is developing an AI chatbot version of Siri for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27, with a June reveal at WWDC ahead of a September launch. Bloomberg noted progress remains uneven.

Zhipu AI leads rally in Chinese AI stocks after new model releases

February 12, 2026, 1:42 AM EST. Chinese AI stocks surged as several firms rolled out upgraded models and policymakers called for wider adoption. Zhipu AI, traded as Knowledge Atlas Technology on the Hong Kong market, jumped about 30% after unveiling GLM-5, an open-source large-language model with improved coding and long-running agent tasks. MiniMax rose around 11% on the M2.5 update, designed for coding and agentic workflows. The Shanghai STAR AI Industry Index gained 1.7%. DeepSeek upgraded its flagship model to offer a larger context window and fresher knowledge. Ant Group released Ming-Flash-Omni 2.0, a unified multimodal model. UCloud Tech jumped as much as 20% on AI demand; SenseTime rose about 5%. Premier Li Qiang urged comprehensive AI adoption, while Tencent and Alibaba fell, dragging the Hang Seng Tech index lower.

Poll: Will You Buy Mario Tennis Fever for Switch 2?

February 12, 2026, 1:36 AM EST. Readers weigh in on Mario Tennis Fever, the new exclusive for Switch 2. Nintendo Life gave the game 8/10, noting a lean single-player Adventure Mode but solid depth and online play. The poll results show a mixed mood: about 34% say No interest, while other segments cluster around early adoption and consideration. The voting tally hits 2,285 votes. Pre-orders account for 14%, Day one for 5%, and As soon as possible for 6%. Some players are still deciding (16%), with 12% unsure, 7% waiting for other titles, and 5% lacking a Switch 2. A small 1% submitted other comments. The community signal suggests strong initial attention but cautious enthusiasm until players can judge multiplayer balance and ongoing content online.

Ex-Google exec warns degrees in law and medicine may be obsolete as AI advances

February 12, 2026, 1:32 AM EST. Jad Tarifi, who helped launch Google's first generative-AI team, says Gen Z should not assume long paths like a PhD or medical or law degrees offer lasting payoff. He argues AI will outpace traditional curricula, so time spent on lengthy credentials may cost years. Tarifi suggests studying AI in niche intersections-AI for biology-or eschewing degrees altogether. The warning echoes from other tech leaders: OpenAI chief Sam Altman says GPT-5 behaves like a PhD-level expert, and Mark Zuckerberg notes college isn't always necessary. Tarifi cautions that medical training, which relies on outdated memorization, may not prepare graduates for today's needs. Still, the report notes the private sector still hires from AI-focused PhD programs, for now, amid concerns about rising tuition and an outdated curriculum.

Japan to subsidize anti-jamming tech to protect satellite signals, targets 2033 commercialization

February 12, 2026, 1:30 AM EST. Tokyo plans government subsidies to accelerate the development of anti-jamming technology for satellite telecommunications, aiming to commercialize devices around 2033, the Nikkei reported. The move follows service disruptions blamed on jamming in Ukraine, France and Iran that affected links to satellite networks such as Starlink. Officials seek industry partnerships and funding to move from research to market, though budgets and specs were not disclosed. The plan reflects Japan's effort to bolster resilient communications as geopolitical tensions over satellite interference persist; Russia has been blamed for jamming during the broader conflict.

Samsung code unlocks SysDump tool to clean Android log files

February 12, 2026, 1:28 AM EST. Hidden Samsung dialing code reveals SysDump, a diagnostic tool built into Galaxy smartphones. Dialing *#9900# opens a stark, server-room style menu for troubleshooting and maintenance, without rooting or PC connections. The standout option, Delete dumpstate/logcat, lets users reclaim storage by removing Android log files and dump data generated when apps crash or processes hiccup. Over months, these logs (logcats) can swell to hundreds of megabytes or more, inflating the System or Other storage category. The feature is part of a broader set of hidden Galaxy tools, accessible to informed users who know the sequence, though it carries inherent risk if misused.

Apple slows Siri AI overhaul, delaying features to later iOS updates, Bloomberg says

February 12, 2026, 1:18 AM EST. Apple has slowed plans to roll out a sweeping Siri AI overhaul, delaying capabilities first slated for March. Bloomberg, citing unnamed sources, said features planned for iOS 26.4 may ship in iOS 26.5 this May and in iOS 27 this September. Delays cover expanded access to personal data (e.g., old texts) and the ability to perform several in-app actions from a single command. The shift follows early testing that showed Siri misprocessing queries and taking too long to respond. Apple did not comment. The report notes prior coverage of leadership changes and ongoing work under Apple Intelligence. Separately, Apple and Google described a partnership on next-gen foundation models using Gemini and cloud tech, and Apple reportedly scaled back an AI health coach.

Apple delays Siri AI overhaul, pushes features to later iOS updates

February 12, 2026, 1:14 AM EST. Apple plans to delay several Siri AI upgrades, pushing features previously slated for March with iOS 26.4 into later releases-May (iOS 26.5) and September (iOS 27), Bloomberg reported. The features include Siri's expanded access to personal data such as old text messages and the ability to perform multiple in-app actions from a single command. The revision follows tests showing the software misinterprets queries and slows on responses, per the report. Apple did not immediately respond to comment requests. The article notes prior PYMNTS coverage of leadership reshuffles and delays to Apple Intelligence, and mentions a partnership with Google Gemini for next-generation foundation models, plus plans to deliver an AI health coach inside the Health app and a scaled-back Vision Pro rollout.

TrendForce: Memory-price surge to squeeze 2026 smartphone shipments

February 12, 2026, 1:10 AM EST. TrendForce warns that a memory-chip shortage will weigh on 2026 smartphone shipments. The baseline forecast calls for a 10% decline to about 1.135 billion units, with a Bear-case scenario of a 15% drop to 1.061 billion. 2025 ended with about 2% growth, in the 1.24-1.26 billion range. Memory components may account for 30-40% of a device's BOM, up from the historical 10-15%, pushing producers to curb output. Samsung's vertical integration and memory role may cushion impact, while Apple's pricing tolerance could keep it resilient. Chinese OEMs like Xiaomi face faster pressure due to price-conscious buyers of entry-level devices. Regardless, memory prices, BOM mix, and smartphone shipments shifts will shape 2026 margins and strategy.

Galaxy S26 Ultra reportedly omits Qi2 charging, leans on magnets

February 12, 2026, 1:06 AM EST. The Galaxy S26 range is set for a February 25 launch. Leaks suggest the Galaxy S26 Ultra will skip built-in Qi2 charging, pushing users toward magnetic cases for access to magnetic accessories and chargers. Proponents call Qi2 a game changer for reliable magnet-attached charging; critics point to a missing standard that could complicate accessory compatibility. A reviewer who has used Qi2 devices says the magnetic approach feels convenient in practice, but its absence on the flagship could disappoint buyers who invested in related gear. Samsung has not officially confirmed the detail, leaving early impressions shaped by leaks and the wider debate over next-gen wireless charging standards.

ULA to launch first 2026 mission, USSF-87 aboard Vulcan Centaur

February 12, 2026, 1:04 AM EST. United Launch Alliance plans to open 2026 with a mission for the U.S. Space Force. NASASpaceFlight.com reported that the launch will carry USSF-87 aboard a Vulcan Centaur rocket. ULA did not provide a precise date in the report. The mission marks the first flight for the company in 2026, continuing its cadence of launches for national security satellites. Officials are expected to announce schedule details in coming weeks. The objective is to place USSF-87 into orbit in support of the Space Force's space superiority program.

Optical computing could cut AI energy use, Penn State study shows

February 12, 2026, 1:02 AM EST. Researchers are exploring computers that run on light rather than electricity to curb AI's power draw. A Penn State team published in Science Advances outlining a proof of concept for optical computing that could one day ease AI energy use across fast-growing systems. Xingjie Ni, a Penn State engineering professor and co-author, frames the work as rethinking optics through modern AI challenges to yield faster, greener hardware. Data centers already account for about 1.5% of global energy consumption, a share the IEA says could double by 2030 if trends continue. Optical computers remain largely experimental; inducing the nonlinearity needed for neural networks demands new materials and designs. Still, researchers argue light-based approaches could augment conventional chips as AI expands.

Samsung phones: how 'Other files' can eat up storage and how to reclaim it

February 12, 2026, 1:00 AM EST. Samsung's storage menu lumps files into categories, with 'Other files' acting as a catch-all that can swell to many gigabytes. On some devices it can reach around 15GB on a 128GB phone. Samsung's One UI now lists three subcategories under Other files: Invisible backups – older edited versions of images or videos kept to undo edits; Pending files – partially downloaded or moved items; and Uncategorized – items that don't fit the others. In addition, app caches and temporary files aren't shown in the main breakdown but count toward total space. There is no single delete all button. To reclaim space, go to Settings > Device care > Storage > Show more > Other files, review the subcategories, and delete unnecessary Invisible backups first.

Viral AI warning on X sparks debate over looming upheaval

February 12, 2026, 12:58 AM EST. A viral essay by entrepreneur Matt Shumer on X warns that rapid AI advances could reshape society, likening the moment to the weeks before COVID-19. The piece, titled "Something Big Is Happening," has drawn more than 42 million views. Shumer argues the shift is underway and that most people will miss the warning until it is too late. Critics have heard similar doomsaying before, but he contends this time the ground is truly changing. The essay urges policymakers and the public to prepare for rapid technological and economic disruption. The claim rests on ongoing AI progress and its potential to alter work, markets, and daily life.

Insta360 unveils Luna Pocket Camera to challenge DJI's Pocket lineup in 2026

February 12, 2026, 12:56 AM EST. During a company-wide meeting, Insta360 CEO Liu Jingkang confirmed Luna, the pocket gimbal camera, will ship in the first half of 2026. He said Luna is not another generic pocket camera and is not based on DJI technology, signaling a distinct, dual-camera design with enhanced videography. The device is billed as a direct competitor to DJI's Pocket 4, not the Pocket 3. Early leaks described a modular system with interchangeable modules and a reinforced stabilization engine, with multiple color options and professional audio potential. Pricing chatter places Luna between $499 and $699, positioning it as a rival to DJI's offerings. Luna aims to fit into Insta360's broader ecosystem, extending the company's lead in 360 content creation.

FTC Chairman Warns Apple Over News Curation, Citing Apple News Bias Study

February 12, 2026, 12:54 AM EST. FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson sent a warning letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook, urging a review of Apple News curation for possible bias and requiring corrective action if right-leaning outlets are being excluded. He cites a Media Research Center study noting that in January 2026 the top 20 morning stories contained no right-leaning outlets such as Fox News, the New York Post, Daily Mail, Breitbart or The Gateway Pundit. MRC says Apple News favored outlets like The Washington Post, AP, NBC News, The Wall Street Journal and Reuters, using AllSides bias ratings. Ferguson argued the selective promotion or suppression of stories based on ideological viewpoints may clash with the FTC Act and consumer expectations, while stressing the FTC is not a speech police. Apple did not comment.

Huang: AI won't replace software; investors reassess software stocks

February 12, 2026, 12:48 AM EST. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says it is illogical to think AI will erase software businesses. AI can augment products, but not replace them, he argued as software stocks slide amid AI fears. Nvidia has driven AI gains, posting trailing-12-month profits near $100 billion after years of much smaller earnings; its chips broaden business use. The iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF has fallen about 20% this year, though some bounce followed Huang's remarks. That backdrop creates potential bargains in Salesforce and Adobe, which trade near multi-year lows but carry risks around AI-driven growth. Investors should weigh AI's productivity boosts against the threat of disintermediation and subscription pressure, rather than presuming wholesale displacement.

Tesla and Pilot strike deal to expand heavy-duty charging network across the US

February 12, 2026, 12:44 AM EST. Tesla and Pilot announced a deal to build heavy-duty EV charging stations at select Pilot travel centers across California, Georgia, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas. The sites will host Tesla Semi chargers with four to eight stalls, using Tesla's V4 cabinet technology and up to 1.2 megawatts of power per stall. Construction starts in the first half of 2026, with some locations expected to open by summer. The rollout will initially serve Tesla Semis but is planned to accommodate other heavy-duty electric vehicles in the future. Pilot's Shannon Sturgil called heavy-duty charging a strategic pillar and highlighted turnkey solutions. Tesla, after a difficult year amid market and political headwinds, continues expanding its charging network.

SpaceX gives historic launch pads another facelift as Starship era looms

February 12, 2026, 12:42 AM EST. SpaceX is trimming Falcon 9 tempo while prepping Pad 40 for continued launches as Starship looms. Pad 39A, used for crew missions, will shed its crew arm while bearings are repaired. VP Bill Gerstenmaier said bearings connect the arm to the tower and must be removed for access; work will take place at the Kennedy Space Center, with the arm reinstalled only when a mission requires it. The company has reduced Falcon 9 turnaround to under 48 hours between flights and continues operations at Pad 39A despite Starship tests nearby. When Starship flights begin from Kennedy, Pad 39A could see routine closures. In short, SpaceX is upgrading both pads to support a higher Starship cadence while keeping Falcon 9 production flowing.

Presidents' Day 2026: The best early tech deals from Apple, Sony, Samsung and others

February 12, 2026, 12:40 AM EST. Presidents' Day 2026 brings tech deals as sales spill over from Valentine's Day and the Super Bowl. Engadget curates the best early discounts you can shop this week. Highlights include Disney+ and Hulu bundle for $10 a month, Anker Nano 45W USB-C charger with a real-time display for $30, Blink Mini 2K+ cameras for $45, and Anker Nano 5K ultra-slim magnetic power bank for $46. Apple drops are also notable: iPhone Air MagSafe battery pack for $79, Magic Mouse for $68, Apple Watch Series 11 at $299 and iPad mini (A17 Pro) at $399. Deals are subject to change; expect updates through the holiday as more offers appear.

New ZeroDayRAT spyware gives hackers full control of iPhone and Android devices

February 12, 2026, 12:38 AM EST. ZeroDayRAT is a commercial mobile spyware platform advertised on Telegram, marketed with customer support and regular updates. Researchers at iVerify say the tool can grant full device access, real-time location, and activation of the camera and microphone, plus access to SMS and app usage and the capture of one-time passwords to bypass 2FA. It can track victims via GPS and display their position on Google Maps. The malware also includes a cryptocurrency wallet-scanner module and uses overlay attacks to harvest credentials from banking and social apps. The platform is marketed as compatible with the latest software on iPhone and Android, including iOS 26 and Android 16, and is sold on the dark web with a dashboard to manage infections. The disclosure cites BleepingComputer reporting of the Telegram sale, underscoring the risk to users.

Smart homes stay online when the cloud fails, thanks to Home Assistant

February 12, 2026, 12:34 AM EST. On Oct. 20, 2025, AWS outage lasted 15 hours after a DNS misconfiguration in a Virginia data center, taking down thousands of platforms and leaving many smart homes offline. Alexa stopped responding, Ring doorbells went dark, and Eight Sleep beds lost temperature control. Yet one app kept a homeowner going: Home Assistant, an open-source system that runs locally rather than in the cloud. The episode underscored a core truth: many devices offload thinking to remote servers, creating latency and multiple failure points. Earlier in June, Sengled's cloud went down for days; Tablo DVRs have faced outages too. By relying on local control, the home can keep lights on and automations alive when the internet is down.

Apple's Siri overhaul delayed again as iOS 26.4 testing hits snags

February 12, 2026, 12:30 AM EST. Apple's planned Siri overhaul for iOS 26.4 is slipping due to ongoing technical issues, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Tests show problems with query processing accuracy, response times, and reliability. Features unveiled in 2024-personal context, screen awareness, and cross-app actions-are being pushed to iOS 26.5 or iOS 27. Apple promoted the update before the iPhone 16, but the release window has slipped. The plan to rebuild Siri on Google's Gemini foundation for a more capable, conversational assistant across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS also faces delay. The situation remains fluid, with personal context likely to slip further.

What The Tech: How to protect yourself online

February 12, 2026, 12:22 AM EST. Most personal data isn't hacked; it's public. Sites like FamilyTreeNow pull details from property records, voter rolls and court filings, then present current and past addresses, phone numbers, emails and even family members with a few clicks. It's legal, but alarming in scale. The good news: you can take control. Google's Results about me tool lets you see where your data appears and request removal, plus set alerts if new mentions show up. You can also opt out directly on many people-search sites, including FamilyTreeNow. Removal isn't instant; check back to confirm. Public data isn't a crime, but it can fuel scams and fraud.

PocketBook InkPad One debuts as cheaper rival to Kindle Scribe with premium build

February 12, 2026, 12:20 AM EST. PocketBook has unveiled the InkPad One, a 10.3-inch E Ink Mobius tablet that targets Kindle Scribe buyers. The device ships with a stylus, an aluminium frame, and a premium feel, and it supports EPUB, FB2, PDF, AZW, plus CBR/CBZ for comics. It can display Adobe and LCP DRM content for library borrowing. An onboard 3,700mAh battery claims up to two months between charges, and there's Bluetooth for headphones and built-in text-to-speech. Specs include a 1.8GHz Rockchip RK3566, 2GB RAM, 32GB storage, a 1404×1872 display, SMARTlight and dual-band Wi-Fi. Weighing 400g in matte black, the InkPad One is about £270 in the UK (roughly $360 in the US), making it a budget competitor to Kindle Scribe.

TSMC set for more highs by end-2026 amid AI data-center spending surge

February 12, 2026, 12:18 AM EST. Analysts say TSMC could reach new highs through 2026 as AI demand underpins the company's leading role in chip production. The world's dominant foundry accounts for roughly three-quarters of global chip manufacturing revenue and helps supply AI chips for rivals like Nvidia. Sustained data center investment by big tech-Alphabet and Amazon-could fuel continued growth, with some forecasts predicting global data-center capex climbing toward trillions by 2030. Even after a ~65% run in the past year, shares trade near 25x this year's earnings estimates, suggesting upside if earnings compound at about 25% annually over three to five years. While questions remain about the pace of AI spending, the piece argues TSMC's market position supports further new highs into 2026.

Anthropic commits to covering electricity price increases from data centers as AI infrastructure expands

February 12, 2026, 12:16 AM EST. Anthropic says it will absorb electricity price increases for consumers triggered by its data centers as it expands American AI infrastructure. The plan says training frontier models will require gigawatts of power and the US will need about 50 gigawatts of capacity. The program covers grid upgrades to interconnect sites, procurement of net-new generation to meet demand, and measures to reduce price pressure through curtailment and grid optimization. It also emphasizes local jobs and environmental safeguards like water-efficient cooling. The company will work with utilities and policymakers on permitting reform and faster transmission. When partnering or leasing, it will pursue additional steps to shield ratepayers from rising electricity prices. Updates will follow as the program evolves.

ULA's Vulcan faces biggest test yet ahead of Space Force national-security launch from Cape Canaveral

February 12, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. The United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket faces its biggest test yet as it carries its heaviest payload on its longest mission for the U.S. Space Force from the Cape Canaveral. Standing at 202 feet tall, the vehicle can run with up to six solid rocket boosters and relies on the Centaur V upper stage. It can lift about 60,000 pounds to low-Earth orbit, more than SpaceX's Falcon 9 in similar terms. This flight marks Vulcan's fourth launch from Cape Canaveral and its second national-security mission since Space Force certification in March 2025. ULA plans aim to position Vulcan as the workhorse, phasing out Delta IV and Atlas V. Executives project 18-22 Vulcan launches in 2026 for national security, civil, and commercial customers. The rocket's Jan. 2024 maiden flight carried Astrobotic's Peregrine, which faced issues but left Earth.

Blizzard adds Warlock class to Diablo IV, Diablo II: Resurrected, and Diablo Immortal in Lord of Hatred expansion

February 12, 2026, 12:06 AM EST. Blizzard announced that the Warlock class will join the Diablo universe across three games. In Diablo IV, the Warlock arrives with the Lord of Hatred expansion, along with the already available Paladin; launch is set for April 28. The expansion carries a $49.99 price; preorder grants instant access to the Paladin and day-one access to the Warlock. In Diablo II: Resurrected, the Reign of the Warlock DLC is available now for $24.99 on Battle.net, or $39.99 as part of the Infernal Edition bundle on Battle.net and Steam. Separately, the Warlock will come to Diablo Immortal in June. Blizzard released a cinematic trailer; the class is described as a master of dark magic shaped by betrayal and survival.

Apple releases iOS 26.3 with Android data-transfer tool; minor bug-fix updates across Mac, iPad and Apple Watch

February 12, 2026, 12:00 AM EST. Apple has released iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 for iPhone and iPad, with macOS Tahoe 26.3 and watchOS 26.3 following. The updates are largely bug fixes and security patches, and Apple says the changes aim at stability rather than features. The report from 9to5Mac notes 37 security issues addressed in iOS and iPadOS. A new tool lets users transfer photos, notes, messages and apps from an Apple device to an Android device, but health data, protected notes and photos aren't included. An EU-only option forwards notifications to another device. The macOS and watchOS updates are similarly focused on fixes. Some sources expect 26.4 to bring a Siri (Apple's voice assistant) refresh and new emoji.