Technology News 16.02.2026

TSMC momentum surges as AI demand fuels record growth

February 16, 2026, 11:52 PM EST. TSMC, Nvidia's supplier, shows momentum surge as AI hardware demand hits a fever pitch. Benzinga Edge data show the stock's momentum score jumped to 92.92 from 89.27, placing it in the top 10% of covered names. January exports rose 70%, driven by AI infrastructure, and TSMC still reports a robust 60% gross margin while delivering complex architectural shifts on schedule. Wall Street turns optimistic: DA Davidson starts coverage with a Buy rating and a $450 target. The shares hover near a 52-week high, with a quality score around 97 and a green signal across horizons. With total Big Tech AI spending projected at $550-$600 billion in 2026, TSMC looks positioned for continued demand; YTD gains around 14.6%.

Citi sees buying opportunity in software stocks as AI fears weigh on valuations

February 16, 2026, 11:50 PM EST. AI fears have dented software shares this year, with the iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF down more than 20% in 2026. Citi screened the Russell 3000 for software names with at least $2 billion in market cap, down at least 10% over the past month, and with 2025-2027 EPS estimates that have risen in six months. The idea: de-risked fundamentals, not just technicals, and improving earnings momentum could lift shares. Microsoft appears on the list, and Palantir is cited after a rough 2026. Goldman Sachs and Wedbush have also named Microsoft. Pettit said a focus on earnings momentum in a more volatile market could draw buyers back to names that have corrected.

Mother sues Tesla over son's death in car with alleged defective doors

February 16, 2026, 11:48 PM EST. Massachusetts mother Jacquelyn Tremblett filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against Tesla in Boston federal court after her 20-year-old son, Samuel Tremblett, was burned alive in a car that she says had defective electric doors. The suit says Samuel dialed 911 begging for help as the blaze began.

Oracle Surges 12% as Apple, Amazon Tumble in Choppy Tech Week

February 16, 2026, 11:46 PM EST. Tech stocks ended a choppy week with the Magnificent Seven diverging. Oracle bucked the trend with a 12% weekly gain after announcing plans interpreted as a positive for its cloud strategy. NVIDIA slipped 2.23% on Friday. Two members, Microsoft and Amazon, slipped into bear markets, down 27% and 23% from recent highs, as AI pricing fears and cloud-growth anxieties weighed. Microsoft beat earnings but faced doubts on Azure growth and the cost of defending Copilot and Office. Amazon projected steep capex this year with only modest AWS growth, leaving investors wary. Apple declined on concerns cloud demand could erode margins amid higher memory costs. The week underscored how AI spending and cloud infrastructure costs are driving sentiment for the sector.

AI fuels distrust in Kalamazoo classroom as educators wrestle with cheating risk

February 16, 2026, 11:42 PM EST. In Kalamazoo, AI is reshaping learning and fueling distrust between educators and students. The Crisis in the Classroom series examines anxiety over AI use, from fears of detection to concerns that assignments rely on machines. Kalamazoo College professor Charlene Boyer Lewis says AI cheating has disrupted the classroom, with last semester's failures tied to AI-assisted work. Educational technology specialist Josh Moon cautions that AI checkers are unreliable and can yield false positives, affecting students of color or those whose first language isn't English. Some professors are returning to paper tests, while Michigan Virtual notes a long-term decline in homework value – a trend AI may accelerate. The central question remains: who defines cheating, and how much should learning hinge on trust rather than surveillance?

Infostealer Steals OpenClaw AI Agent Configs and Gateway Tokens

February 16, 2026, 11:26 PM EST. Cybersecurity researchers say an information stealer exfiltrated a victim's OpenClaw configuration, grabbing files such as openclaw.json, device.json and soul.md. The data patch includes the OpenClaw gateway token, cryptographic keys and the agent's core principles. The thief appears to be a Vidar variant, and the data theft stemmed from a broad file-grabbing routine rather than a dedicated OpenClaw module. Exposed gateway tokens could let an attacker connect to a local OpenClaw instance or impersonate the client in authenticated requests. Hudson Rock notes this marks a shift from stealing credentials to harvesting AI agent contexts. OpenClaw maintainers have partnered with VirusTotal to audit skills on ClawHub, while OpenSourceMalware reportedly uses decoy skills on lookalike sites to bypass scanning.

Apple tests end-to-end RCS encryption on iPhone in iOS 26.4 beta, Android not yet supported

February 16, 2026, 11:16 PM EST. Apple's iOS 26.4 beta tests end-to-end encryption for RCS messages on iPhone, but Android cross-platform support isn't included in this release. The feature is described as in beta and not shipping yet; Apple says it will arrive in a future update for iOS, iPadOS, macOS and watchOS. For now, encrypted RCS messages work only between Apple devices. The move follows years of debate over RCS security and prior calls from Apple about the lack of encryption, and places encryption closer to an eventual iPhone-to-Android rollout, though timing remains unclear.

Five-year depreciation of 2021 Tesla Model Y near 50-60%, pressured by price cuts and competition

February 16, 2026, 11:14 PM EST. Five years after its debut, the 2021 Tesla Model Y has shed roughly half of its value. iSeeCars tallies depreciation of more than 60% for the model, while KBB cites a drop from about $40,000 MSRP to around $21,000. The gap underscores conflicting estimates but points to a common trend: strong early demand gave way to sharp price cuts and rising competition in the all-electric SUV market. Tesla trimmed prices on new units between 2022 and 2024 to maintain market share, while large used inventories-led by Hertz liquidations-swelled the resale pool. For buyers, the decline opens a lower-cost path to a long-range EV, even as early owners face sizable losses on their first purchases.

Western Digital shifts to AI storage ramp with hyperscaler deals

February 16, 2026, 11:10 PM EST. Western Digital is repositioning as an AI infrastructure provider, steering its roadmap toward high-capacity storage for hyperscalers. The company plans a dual ePMR and HAMR strategy, targeting 40TB drives today with a path to 100TB+ for cloud and AI customers. Multi-year procurement deals with AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud anchor demand as the core driver. Executives frame the shift as a longer cycle beyond consumer PC demand, tying capital expenditure to hyperscaler capex rhythms. Investors have watched the shift, with shares fluctuating amid broader AI storage enthusiasm. Key milestones to monitor include drive velocity from sampling to deployment, pricing discipline, and how quickly new drives gain broad enterprise adoption.

Tesla's AI and energy bets reshape valuation and risk, analysts say

February 16, 2026, 11:06 PM EST. Tesla's latest valuation update nudges its modelled Fair Value to US$421.73 from US$418.76, with the discount rate rising to 10.11% and long-term revenue growth trimmed to 14.18%. The shifts reflect how debate over AI-from full self-driving to robotaxis and energy investments-shapes what investors pay for Tesla's long runway of execution risk. Bulls cite renewed optimism: Tigress Financial resumes coverage; price targets from UBS, Goldman Sachs, Mizuho, TD Cowen, Barclays, Wells Fargo (to US$130) and GLJ Research (to US$25.28) rise. Morgan Stanley flags solar/energy upside of US$20B-$50B. Wolfe Research pins 2026 as pivotal for progress in self driving, with valuation support but priced in risk. Bears warn that the current backdrop still carries meaningful downside if AI bets miss.

AI-powered analyst slashes reporting time as Anthropic rolls out industry-specific tools

February 16, 2026, 11:04 PM EST. Finnish mobile gaming group Supercell uses an AI-powered analyst to cut monthly performance reporting from hours to minutes. Lauri Sulonen, head of financial planning, says the AI shows no mistakes and cites source references, shifting his view on AI's potential. The Pigment platform handles basic repetitive work in finance. Across sectors, routine tasks-from forecasting to financial modelling and content drafting-can be done nearly instantly by software agents. Anthropic unveiled Claude Cowork, tools that customise AI for law, finance, sales and support, prompting investor jitters as industry-specific AI faces renewed competition. In wealth management, shares fell on fears of disruption by AI tools. Firms weigh in-house versus vendor-built agents as white-collar automation expands.

Dell XPS 14 (2026) review: almost MacBook-like, with caveats

February 16, 2026, 10:58 PM EST. Dell's XPS 14 (2026) doubles down on a MacBook Air vibe, trimming ports for a sleeker silhouette. It uses Intel Panther Lake CPUs with extra GPU cores, delivering smooth performance for moderate graphics tasks and light gaming, though top CPUs still outrun it. The OLED model is bright with solid sound; RAM is soldered, limiting upgrades. Power users will note the limited I/O and a keyboard that's not ideal for long sessions. Pricing sits around $2,200 for the higher-end X7 358H configuration, with the price pressure pushing it toward rival 14-inch laptops with discrete GPUs. Dell also restores a physical function row, signaling a return to familiar ergonomics. Battery life is competitive for the size, but the overall value hinges on budget and tolerance for keyboard quirks.

India tightens AI social media rules, sparking censorship fears

February 16, 2026, 10:56 PM EST. India tightens rules governing AI in social media to curb AI-generated disinformation, with new obligations taking effect Feb. 20. Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and X must meet government takedown orders within three hours, down from 36 hours. The move heightens regulatory pressure on global tech firms amid concerns about disinformation and the misuse of imagery, while triggering fears of censorship and erosion of digital freedoms. Rights groups say the compressed timelines leave little room for meaningful human review. The government has expanded the Sahyog portal to automate takedowns, and the rules require clear labeling of synthetic media that cannot be removed. Critics warn that automatic censorship could shift control away from users, with grievance processes operating on slower clocks. Authorities say the aim is to curb illegal content and protect users.

Alibaba unveils Qwen3.5 as China's AI agents race heats up

February 16, 2026, 10:38 PM EST. Alibaba Group on Monday rolled out its Qwen3.5 AI model in open-weight and hosted versions, claiming better performance and lower costs than earlier releases. The model adds native multimodal capabilities to process text, images and video in one system and supports new coding and agentic features compatible with open-source agents such as OpenClaw. Alibaba cited 397 billion parameters for Qwen3.5, while noting improvements based on self-reported benchmarks that place it on par with OpenAI, Anthropic and Google DeepMind rivals. A hosted version, Qwen-3.5-Plus, runs on Alibaba's Model Studio cloud service. The release comes as Chinese peers like ByteDance and Zhipu AI push more agent-enabled models amid a broader shift toward autonomous AI agents. Independent verification of the competitive claims remains limited.

iOS 26.3 adds Android data transfer, Weather wallpaper and location controls

February 16, 2026, 10:32 PM EST. Apple releases iOS 26.3 with selective updates. The highlight is a new transfer tool that lets iPhone users move data to Android by placing devices together, transferring photos, messages, notes, apps, passwords, and more without a separate app. Health data, Bluetooth-paired devices, and locked notes aren't included. Google offers a similar Android-to-iPhone flow, so cross-platform transfers are now two-way. A Weather wallpaper category appears in Lock Screen customization, with three presets that vary fonts and widgets. A new Limit Precise Location setting limits carrier access to neighborhood-level data on supported C1 and C1X modems (iPhone 16e and iPhone Air); Boost in the US is the first carrier, others in the UK, Germany, and Thailand implement it. Evidence in release candidates hinted at M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips. A beta EU-only Notification Forwarding setting was not shipping yet.

Majorana qubits decoded with quantum capacitance in Kitaev chain breakthrough

February 16, 2026, 10:30 PM EST. Researchers report a breakthrough in reading information stored by Majorana qubits using a technique called quantum capacitance. The team built a modular Kitaev minimal chain-two semiconductor quantum dots linked by a superconductor-to create Majorana modes in a controlled, bottom-up way. With the global probe, they measured in real time whether the paired Majorana modes formed an even or odd parity, effectively read the qubit's state without relying on local charge signals. The result demonstrates the protective principle of topological qubits and addresses the long challenge of observing distributed information. The team also observed random parity jumps, and reported parity coherence exceeding one millisecond, a metric seen as promising for future operations in topological quantum computing. Attribution: Aguado, Steffensen, ICMM CSIC; QuKit project.

Samsung teases Privacy Display for Galaxy S26 Ultra in new teaser

February 16, 2026, 10:28 PM EST. Samsung released a brief teaser for the Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display, a privacy filter that darkens the screen to thwart shoulder-surfing. In the clip, a woman on a subway scrolls an e-book with a spicy opening, then toggles Privacy Display to darken the view from the side. Samsung says the feature helps keep reading content private and will be available on the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The filter works like other privacy screens: normal front-on view, black when viewed from an angle. Some rumors hint at selective dimming of screen areas rather than a full filter, but details remain unclear. The Galaxy S26 range is expected to debut later this year, with Samsung signaling a continued focus on privacy features.

Open-source tool Obtainium aims to automate updates for sideloaded Android apps

February 16, 2026, 10:26 PM EST. Open-source Obtainium provides automatic updates for sideloaded Android apps. It monitors update pages on sources like GitHub, GitLab, and F-Droid, and notifies users when a new version is available, with an option to update automatically. Unlike Play Store apps, sideloaded apps don't receive background updates, so Obtainium asks users to add each app via its source URL. Once added, apps appear in the Apps tab and can be pinned or grouped into categories for easier management. The tool also offers Import/Export to ingest lists from a URL or other trackers such as Discoverium, and can pull in apps you've starred on GitHub. The focus is giving users control over updates while preserving sideloading flexibility.

Bay Area adult day center deploys AI-powered robot to entertain clients

February 16, 2026, 10:22 PM EST. At Live Oak Adult Day Services in San Jose, a 4-foot AI-powered robot named Mirokai entertains clients with music, trivia, and humor, lifting mood for many living with dementia. Chief Happiness Officer Izumi Yaskawa says the robot is staff augmentation, not a replacement, freeing caregivers amid a nationwide shortage. The scene mirrors a shift toward assistive robots in care facilities as aging populations strain staffing. Analysts project the elder-care robots market to grow from about $3.4 billion in 2025 to nearly $10 billion by 2033. Enchanted Tools' Isabelle Blanchot notes testing extends to hospitals for pediatric cancer patients. Mirokai can cost up to $80,000, but clients like 94-year-old Beryl Greensmith call it a highlight and a source of joy, including quirky dad jokes.

Apple TV adds dedicated Formula 1 channel with Sky Sports commentary

February 16, 2026, 10:14 PM EST. Apple TV has added a dedicated Formula 1 channel to its app, expanding its F1 programming after its blockbuster film. The channel lists placeholders for practices, qualifying and the grand prix, plus a weekend warm-up show. A section labeled "Event Schedule: Sky Sports" hints Apple will use Sky's commentary rather than hosting its own, similar to ESPN's approach during its F1 rights. The hub also includes highlights from the 2025 season and a recap of 2026 rule changes. Looking ahead to 2026, some races may be free-to-watch, but an F1TV Premium package is now part of an Apple TV subscription, likely the preferred option for serious fans. F1TV provides full access and behind-the-scenes content like driver cams (onboard video from drivers) and live team radios.

Murena Volla Tablet launches in United States with de-Googled /e/OS

February 16, 2026, 10:08 PM EST. Murena has brought the Murena Volla Tablet to the United States and Canada, offering a slightly modified version that runs /e/OS, a de-Googled Android. The hardware remains: 12.6-inch 2650×1600 display, 12 GB RAM, 512 GB storage, 13 MP rear and 5 MP front cameras, and a 10,000 mAh battery, with Wi-Fi 6 and USB-C. Cellular is supported but not activated outside Europe, and there is no headphone jack. It starts at $789 in the US, excluding shipping or the keyboard case. The /e/OS environment uses App Lounge as an installer for apps from F-Droid and the Google Play Store. Murena previously sells a US version of the Fairphone 6 with /e/OS; this marks Murena's first tablet.

Android Auto beta hints at video streaming work, light theme on the horizon

February 16, 2026, 10:06 PM EST. Beta software is a pre-release version used for testing, and Android Auto's 16.3 update shows Google is still refining in-car video streaming. Digging into the code, 9to5Google reports new flags for video apps and for a long-promised light theme, though there are no obvious surface changes yet. The flags suggest future toggles that could unlock more media options in vehicles. The light theme has been talked about for about a year and remains unavailable, with Google offering no schedule. Analysts note publication delays may reflect broader design and safety considerations in in-car displays. For now, Google is building behind the scenes toward an ongoing feature set rather than a major overhaul.

Samsung shows fresh renders of Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro ahead of Unpacked launch

February 16, 2026, 10:04 PM EST. Samsung has dropped new official-looking renders of the upcoming Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro ahead of next week's Galaxy Unpacked. The visuals show charging cases similar in style, but earbuds differ: Buds4 uses a semi-in-ear fit without silicone tips, while Buds4 Pro adopts an in-ear design with silicone tips and a redesigned flat-edged stem. The Buds4 Pro case features a transparent lid and buds seated horizontally. Battery specs are rumored: 57mAh for Buds4 Pro, 42mAh for Buds4. Accessories differ; Pro variant includes extra ear tips and a charging cable in the box. Rumors point to a pinch-and-hold gesture and Interpreter mode, with prices around €179 (Buds4) and €249 (Buds4 Pro).

Vietnam grants SpaceX Starlink permission for satellite internet rollout

February 16, 2026, 9:50 PM EST. Vietnam has granted SpaceX's Starlink permission to roll out satellite internet on a permanent basis after a trial last year, licensing Starlink Services Vietnam to operate fixed and mobile networks and use radio frequencies. The approval covers four ground gateway stations in the initial phase and access for up to 600,000 user terminals. Vietnam becomes the sixth Southeast Asian market for Starlink, joining the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Timor-Leste and Singapore. Officials say the service will supplement ground internet and extend access to remote and mountainous areas, while serving as a backup during natural disasters. Talks on ownership rules were resolved earlier; a formal launch date has not been announced. Controversy persists over reports that Starlink terminals have been used by fraud rings in the region.

Microsoft AI chief says AI could reach human-level performance in most white-collar work within 12-18 months

February 16, 2026, 9:42 PM EST. Microsoft AI chief Mustafa Suleyman told the Financial Times in a YouTube interview that AI could reach human-level performance on most white-collar tasks within 12-18 months. He cited roles such as lawyers, accountants and project managers, arguing AI could fully automate many tasks. The remark echoes similar predictions from other tech leaders, though some researchers and studies cast doubt on rapid, broad disruption. MIT work cited a potential 11.7% job replacement across sectors; PwC found half of CEOs saw no immediate gains from AI tools. Suleyman said there will be billions of digital minds and many model lineages tailored to institutions and people, framing AI as a spectrum from specialized tools to broader systems to fit each context.

Gemini split-screen multitasking arrives on regular smartphones, not just tablets

February 16, 2026, 9:40 PM EST. Google's app update version 17.5.42.ve.arm64 unlocks Gemini split-screen multitasking on regular smartphones, not just tablets or foldables. The feature, spotted on a Pixel 9 with Android 17 beta, requires no flags. Open Gemini in split-screen beside another app and tap the Share screen and app content option to enable a live view of the adjacent window. For Chrome, Gemini uses the tab URL rather than scanning screen pixels; for other apps it captures a screenshot of the neighboring window and blacks out its own pane during processing. Availability remains uneven as the rollout proceeds; some devices such as the OnePlus Pad 3 showed early usability, while others still lack support. Users should check the Google App version for the update.

Apple to launch seven new Macs this year, including redesigned Pro models and a budget MacBook

February 16, 2026, 9:36 PM EST. Apple is lining up more than 20 new products this year, with a heavy emphasis on Macs. Four laptops are expected: MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max, a suffix-free MacBook aimed at affordability, the M5 MacBook Air, and a redesigned MacBook Pro with M6 Pro and M6 Max. The M5 Pro/Max models will keep the current design, while the M6 Pro/Max reportedly bring a thinner chassis, OLED display and touch input. The budget MacBook targets around $699 with colorful options. On the desktop side, a new Mac Studio is due in the first half, offered in M5 Max and M5 Ultra configurations, potentially alongside a Studio Display. Mac mini variants (M5, M5 Pro) are planned, and an iMac refresh is rumored. The Mac Pro remains unconfirmed.

iPhone Fold rumors point to late-2026 launch with book-style design and hinge questions

February 16, 2026, 9:28 PM EST. Apple has not confirmed a foldable iPhone. Still, late-2026 reporting points to a debut, likely alongside the iPhone 18, with some forecasts pushing shipments into 2027 if hinge or display durability hurdles appear. Analysts such as Mark Gurman and Ming-Chi Kuo cite a fall window, though timelines could slip. The device is expected to use a book-style fold rather than a clamshell, with an unfolded display near 7.7-7.8 inches and an outer screen around 5.5 inches. CAD leaks describe a shorter, wider folded footprint. Reports also reference an iPhone Air-like chassis, implying a thickness of about 4.5-5.6 mm unfolded and 9-11 mm folded. The design remains speculative, with pricing and final specs uncertain.

Acer Aspire 14 AI Copilot+ PC deal: $459.99 at Amazon

February 16, 2026, 9:12 PM EST. Amazon lists the Acer Aspire 14 AI Copilot+ PC for $459.99, down from $829.99-a 45% discount and $370 savings. The 14-inch laptop pairs an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor with a dedicated NPU for AI tasks, plus 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD. The deal targets students and remote workers seeking to future-proof their setup; pricing can change after publication.

EV battery metals index hits 27-month high as demand and prices recover

February 16, 2026, 9:08 PM EST. December's EV battery materials bill topped $2 billion for the first time since August 2023, as lithium and nickel prices move higher into 2026. The global passenger EV market likely exceeded 30 million units last year, with battery capacity deployed up about 25%. Data from Adamas Intelligence show 2025 may be the first calendar year with battery capacity deployment above 1 TWh. Since 2021, the market's GWh has nearly quadrupled, tenfold since 2019. The EV Metal Index-which pairs metals demand with prices-points to a brighter outlook after years of weakness. The 2025 contained metals bill rose to $15.8 billion, up about 13% YoY. December spend surpassed $2 billion, the highest since Aug 2023, as cobalt's contribution was about 14% of the index and cobalt sulphate prices surged, with cobalt's annual tally at $2.4 billion and a peak near 2022.

Apple Valuation Checks After AI Delays, FTC Scrutiny and Tariffs

February 16, 2026, 9:06 PM EST. Apple (AAPL) shares slipped after delays to AI upgrades and fresh U.S. FTC scrutiny over News' perceived political bias. The pullback follows upbeat demand, with the stock near $255.78 and a one-year return around 5%. Analysts still peg a fair value near $275, but tariffs on Chinese imports-up to 145%-threaten margins since roughly 90% of iPhones are assembled in China. Apple is accelerating production shifts to India and Vietnam to mitigate costs. In Q1 2026, revenue rose about 15.7%. The bull case rests on services strength and premium earnings; however, the valuation could crack if tariffs or AI spending compress margins more than anticipated.

Galaxy Buds 4 leaks reaffirm basic design ahead of Unpacked

February 16, 2026, 9:04 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Buds 4 have leaked ahead of the February 25 Unpacked event, where Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy S26 lineup. Images from a retailer (via SammyGuru) show a more rounded, partly stemmed design with no silicone eartips, unlike the Pro model. The case returns to a traditional square shape with USB-C and a transparent lid, dropping the Buds 3's vertical storage style. A larger top microphone port and a circular grille appear in a simpler look. The leak lists 24 hours of total play time; rumors say the battery could be smaller. The listing suggests two AI assistants, likely Bixby and Gemini, and an IP55 rating for water resistance. Separately, Samsung reportedly pulled the Buds 3 from the US ahead of the launch.

Deere bets on AI and digital platforms to fuel growth in farming and construction

February 16, 2026, 9:02 PM EST. Deere is expanding beyond hardware into AI-powered autonomous tractors, digital agriculture platforms and the acquisition of Tenna to run a connected fleet in farming and construction. The strategy shifts Deere toward a tech-driven model that seeks recurring revenue from subscriptions and data services, not just one-time machine sales. Shares trade on NYSE:DE, with solid year-to-date gains and a longer track record, even as last year's results showed a decline in profit and revenue from the 2023 peak. Investors will watch Tenna integration, adoption of digital tools, and the ROI of autonomous systems as Deere builds a hardware-plus-platform business aimed at steadier cash flow and to support the dividend, currently $1.62 per quarter with a 34.2% payout ratio.

Sandisk eyes Nvidia-like AI memory growth as hyperscalers drive demand

February 16, 2026, 8:56 PM EST. Hyperscalers are accelerating AI capex, fueling demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and related storage. Sandisk's enterprise SSDs and NAND flash memory services are becoming integral to hyperscale data-center stacks. The arc mirrors Nvidia's rise: a dominant GPU player now benefiting from broader infrastructure spending. The memory-storage segment remains fragmented, with Micron, Samsung and SK Hynix as key rivals. The total addressable market for HBM was about $35 billion last year and could grow toward $100 billion by 2028, per industry estimates. Sandisk posted about $9 billion in revenue last year, leaving significant room to scale if demand stays strong. Whether Sandisk will experience an Nvidia-like moment in AI memory depends on competitive dynamics, pricing, and data-center adoption.

Arizona women sue AI startup over alleged deepfake porn using their photos

February 16, 2026, 8:50 PM EST. Three Arizona women in their 20s filed a lawsuit accusing an AI entrepreneur network of using their images to create and monetize nonconsensual deepfake pornography. The complaint names Instagram influencer Beau Schultz and three others, plus four companies, alleging they fed victims' photos into a AI platform to host erotic chatbots and sell subscriptions. Plaintiffs say the scheme included public boasting about earnings and teaching others to replicate it. One plaintiff, who moved from Kansas City, described how innocent photos were used for sexualized content, causing anxiety and stigma. Schultz's Instagram shows AI-generated imagery and a stated aim of turning AI into income. A linked Telegram channel promotes paid tools, a two-week boot camp, and a build-to-order service to create a unique AI persona.

iOS 27 could boost iPhone battery life; 7 tips to conserve now

February 16, 2026, 8:48 PM EST. Apple's next update, iOS 27, is expected to bring battery life improvements, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports in Power On. The changes are described as a 'cleanup job' that could affect all compatible devices, delivering a snappier OS. The impact is unclear and Apple may not tout the gain if modest. For now, users can squeeze more life from current iPhones: update to the latest OS; enable Low Power Mode or Adaptive Power Mode (on iOS 26); dim the display or use Auto-Brightness; turn off Always On Display on supported models. Other tips include restricting background activity and limiting location services. Apple's WWDC 2026 reveal is expected in June, with the company signaling a smaller update than iOS 26.

iOS 27 could improve iPhone battery life; seven quick ways to boost it now

February 16, 2026, 8:46 PM EST. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says iOS 27, due to be unveiled at WWDC 2026, could be a slim update that cleans up code and quietly boosts battery life on iPhones old and new. He calls it a cleanup job, with gains that may or may not be marketed. In the meantime, users can improve endurance now: update to the latest OS, enable Low Power Mode, and, on iOS 26, turn on Adaptive Power Mode. Reduce display drain by dimming brightness or using Auto-Brightness, and disable Always On Display on compatible devices. Other practical steps include managing Wi-Fi use and background activity. Apple's changes aim to cut inefficiencies from older code, delivering a faster, more responsive system even before the next release.

Verizon tightens device unlock policy, delaying payoffs by 35 days unless paid in-store

February 16, 2026, 8:44 PM EST. Verizon quietly tightened its device-unlock policy. The change expands the 35-day delay beyond gift cards. The January 27 rule said a Verizon Gift Card used to buy or pay off a smartphone triggers the delay while funds are verified for fraud. Last week Verizon added language saying online payoffs (via My Verizon or electronic payment) or using a Verizon Gift Card to purchase or settle a balance will trigger the same 35-day delay. Ars Technica reported Verizon confirmed the update, saying it aims to curb fraud. Going forward, automatic unlock after payoff appears to require in-person payment at a corporate store using a secure payment type (EMV card, cash, or Apple/Google Pay); otherwise an additional 35-day delay applies. The timing was not clearly announced, and the date still shows January 27.

Tesla CarPlay delays tied to iOS 26 rollout and map-sync fix, Bloomberg reports

February 16, 2026, 8:42 PM EST. Tesla's CarPlay integration remains delayed as Apple and Tesla work through a cross-platform routing challenge between Apple Maps, Tesla's FSD navigation and the iPhone update cycle. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says Apple shipped a backend fix to keep CarPlay and the car's map in sync, but rollout hinges on iOS 26 adoption. iOS 26 launched Sept. 2025 with incremental patches; 26.2 released Dec. 12 and 26.3 on Feb. 11. Adoption trails prior iOS cycles: about 74% of four-year-old iPhones run iOS 26, while overall active devices sit near 66%. A corrected update is needed to enable CarPlay destinations to route through Tesla OS and trigger FSD, according to the report. Tesla had signaled CarPlay integration was coming, but timing remains unclear.

Tesla CarPlay integration delayed as Apple-Tesla map-sync bottleneck tied to iOS 26 rollout

February 16, 2026, 8:40 PM EST. Tesla's CarPlay integration remains delayed as Apple and Tesla work through interoperability between Apple Maps, FSD, and the iPhone update cycle. Internal testing showed a conflict when CarPlay runs with Tesla's built-in navigation: Apple Maps could contradict the planned route, prompting Tesla to seek a custom fix so both systems stay in sync. Apple reportedly implemented the adjustment, allowing CarPlay to feed destinations to Tesla OS and align routes. But the patch release depends on iOS 26 updates. Apple rolled out iOS 26 starting September 2025, with 26.0.1, 26.1, 26.2 and 26.3 builds. Adoption remains uneven: about 74% of four-year-old iPhones run iOS 26, and overall activation sits around 66%. The rollout hinges on wider iOS 26 uptake.

Deep33 bets on near-term quantum apps as compute frontier tightens

February 16, 2026, 8:38 PM EST. Deep33 partner Joab Rosenberg says the new fund closed a first closing of $100 million and aims to raise to $150 million. The fund's thesis centers on the future of compute, investing in quantum computing, AI infrastructure, and, selectively, energy and robotics. Rosenberg argues that we will see commercial applications of quantum tech within 2027, a view he says distinguishes Deep33 from skeptics who see a decade-long horizon. He emphasizes a hardware-first investing approach and notes the project's capital intensity and rising geopolitics as key considerations. The interview frames how deep tech is reshaping venture investing and where capital can realistically capture value before the market matures.

Deep33's Joab Rosenberg bets on quantum computing, eyes commercial apps by 2027

February 16, 2026, 8:36 PM EST. Joab Rosenberg, partner at Deep33, a new $100-$150 million venture fund focused on the future of compute, explains the thesis: break the bottlenecks of compute to enable next-gen software. Deep33 invests in quantum computing, AI infrastructure, and related hardware and robotics opportunities. Rosenberg says the firm is already closing a first $100 million, with a target of up to $150 million, and plans a hardware-first approach to investing. He argues the market is moving toward commercial applications in 2027, not decades away, challenging the view that quantum is far off. The conversation also touches capital intensity, geopolitics, and the growing role of deep tech in venture investing. He notes venture returns can come before full commercialization if the company captures value earlier in the compute stack.

Verizon tightens device-unlock policy, delaying online payoffs by 35 days

February 16, 2026, 8:34 PM EST. Verizon has quietly tightened its device-unlock rules, extending a 35-day unlock delay to most payoff transactions made online or via its My Verizon app, unless payments are completed in person at a corporate store. The change expands a January policy that already delayed unlocks for smartphones bought or paid off with Verizon Gift Cards. Verizon confirmed to Ars Technica that the update is active as of February 10 and applies to online payoffs, with a 35-day hold unless the payoff is conducted in-person at a corporate location using a secure payment type (EMV chip cards, cash, or Apple/Google Pay). The original January 27 date remains listed in some materials. The move, described by some critics as a fraud-prevention step, raises questions about transparency and consumer impact.

Epstein aided AI researcher in securing Hong Kong funding, SCMP report says

February 16, 2026, 8:22 PM EST. According to a South China Morning Post report, Jeffrey Epstein helped Ben Goertzel secure about HK$8.9 million in grants from Hong Kong's Innovation and Technology Fund, enabling Goertzel's team to meet the required 10% industry sponsor share. US Department of Justice emails show Epstein pledged at least $113,000 over five years to support Goertzel's open-source AI initiative, routed through Novamente. Goertzel later worked as chief scientist at Hanson Robotics in Hong Kong and partnered with PolyU on AI projects. The SCMP account traces Epstein's involvement to 2001, with Goertzel repeatedly seeking donations, including a 2011 $10,000 request and a 2015 $25,000 request that was eventually approved before 2018. Goertzel says he now regrets the association.

Tennessee bill would tighten school internet safety rules, audits, and parental oversight

February 16, 2026, 8:18 PM EST. NASHVILLE – Tennessee Rep. Scott Cepicky introduced a bill to tighten student online protections by requiring traditional public and charter schools to review and update their internet use policies twice yearly. The measure would block access to prohibited material on school networks and require districts to monitor student web activity for policy compliance. It would create a formal process for parental complaints and require notification if a student under 18 accesses a site that violates district rules. The bill also allows schools to issue email addresses for pre-K through fifth grade solely for identification, without intra-school emailing. It calls for annual third-party audits of each district's internet policy, with results published online. The legislation would take effect in the 2027-2028 school year.

Lenovo Yoga Tab packs flagship specs at steep discount

February 16, 2026, 8:02 PM EST. Lenovo's Yoga Tab blends strong performance with a value-focused price. The 11.1-inch tablet features a 3.2K display with 144Hz refresh, 800 nits brightness and 98% DCI-P3 color. Power comes from Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 paired with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Audio is robust, with two tweeters, two woofers and Dolby Atmos sound. The tablet also includes dual cameras on the rear (13MP main and 2MP macro) and a 13MP front camera for video calls. Accessories matter here: a bundled keyboard cover and stylus unlock productivity potential. The bundle is discounted from $570 to $390-a $180 cut-making it notably affordable. Lenovo warns the deal won't last, so buyers should act quickly.

OpenClaw hype fades as security flaws undercut its promise, AI experts say

February 16, 2026, 7:50 PM EST. OpenClaw, the Austrian project by Peter Steinberger that helped popularize AI agents, generated a viral moment around Moltbook – a Reddit-like network where bots could chat and even match with a Tinder for agents. Yet the enthusiasm masked practical risks. Security researchers found credentials in Moltbook's Supabase were unsecured for a time, raising the possibility of token theft and impersonation. Analysts and skeptics say the episode illustrates the technology's mixed promise. Andrej Karpathy praised the spectacle on X, calling it an extraordinary sci-fi moment, while John Hammond of Huntress warned accounts could be faked and upvotes manipulated without safeguards. Moltbook's culture-4claw and a Tinder-like interface-shows the novelty, but many experts see OpenClaw's cybersecurity flaws as a barrier to usable deployment. The project has drawn roughly 190,000 GitHub stars, ranking it among the platform's most popular repos.

AI-driven stock selloff shows market doom loop as disruption fears clash with payoff skepticism

February 16, 2026, 7:48 PM EST. Stock-market volatility tied to the AI push reflects two opposing fears. Investors worry AI will upend large swaths of the economy, while doubting that the hundreds of billions in AI spending by industry giants will pay off soon. The mood shift has hammered tech-linked names and broader peers, wiping more than $1 trillion off the market value of major AI investors. 'There is a contradiction,' said Julia Wang of Nomura International Wealth Management, noting the two fears cannot both be true. Late-January earnings failed to show immediate windfalls from AI spending. With over $600 billion in capital expenditures projected for 2026 by Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, and Alphabet, investors fear spending is draining free cash flow and reshaping risk. Saglimbene calls it a 'no-win situation' until paybacks appear, as stocks slide-Microsoft and Amazon down over 16%, Alphabet ~11% from a peak.

NASA to conduct second full fueling test of Space Launch System in Artemis program

February 16, 2026, 7:46 PM EST. NASA will again attempt a full wet dress rehearsal of the Space Launch System (SLS), loading more than 700,000 gallons of liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen as part of a countdown drill at Launch Complex 39B. The sequence begins with a stations call in Firing Room 1 on Tuesday evening and culminates in a simulated T-0 on Thursday, Feb. 19. The test follows a February 12 confidence run intended to assess repaired seals near the Tail Service Mast Umbilical (TSMU). A ground equipment hiccup reduced LH2 flow, but officials said the data supported core-stage readiness. Artemis launch officials stressed the team demonstrated hold capability and that hydrogen safety limits remain in force during terminal counts.

Tesla's CarPlay plan delayed by Apple Maps compatibility issue, Gurman says

February 16, 2026, 7:44 PM EST. Tesla is still planning to add CarPlay, but a compatibility issue between Apple Maps and Tesla's navigation has slowed testing. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says turn-by-turn data from Tesla Maps didn't sync with Apple Maps during autonomous driving, potentially confusing drivers with two navigation apps in view. Tesla asked Apple to address the mismatch; Apple reportedly shipped a fix in iOS 26. Adoption of iOS 26 remains uneven, with 74% of recent iPhone models on the update. Tesla had aimed to launch CarPlay by year-end 2025, a reversal for a company that long resisted CarPlay requests. CarPlay is viewed as a potential sales driver, even as Tesla's own infotainment system is highly regarded. The issue underscores the complexity of cross-platform integration.

DJI Power 1000 V2 portable power station hits 39% discount at Amazon

February 16, 2026, 7:42 PM EST. DJI's Power 1000 V2 portable power station is on sale at Amazon for $429, down from $699 – a 39% discount. The second version offers improved battery life and multiple ports, appealing to content creators and travelers seeking reliable off-grid power. Deal timing and pricing can change after publication, so buyers should verify the current numbers before purchasing. Mashable notes the deal reflects typical online price fluctuations, and stock may vary.

Reddit's human moderators under pressure as AI flood tests community norms

February 16, 2026, 7:40 PM EST. Across Reddit, narratives rise or fall through coordinated activity and social pressure in tight-knit communities. The site relies on volunteer moderators who decide what stays visible and what is hidden as discussions surge around AI-generated content. Those moderators face pressure from highly motivated groups, harassment, or sustained reporting campaigns, raising the risk of burnout or abrupt policy shifts. Because norms vary by subreddit, inconsistent enforcement leaves users uncertain about what counts as acceptable behavior. As platforms tackle a flood of automated content, human judgment by moderators remains a critical, uneven frontline in shaping credible conversations and community standards.

Motorola Signature review: flagship specs and premium build

February 16, 2026, 7:36 PM EST. Motorola's Signature targets flagship status with a rugged, premium build: IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance and MIL-STD-810H compliance, framed in aluminum with Gorilla Glass Victus 2. The 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED display runs at 165Hz and supports Dolby Vision. Under the hood, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 powers up to 16GB RAM and up to 1TB UFS 4.1 storage. The 5,200 mAh battery charges at 90W wired and 50W wireless, with 10W reverse charging. The triple 50MP camera array includes OIS on the main and telephoto and offers 8K video capture. Connectivity is modern: 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, UWB, and Ready For. Android 16 promises up to seven major upgrades. A true premium handset, with a price to match.

Motorola Signature review: flagship specs, premium build and power

February 16, 2026, 7:34 PM EST. Motorola's Signature arrives as a genuine flagship in a crowded market. The phone pairs an aluminum frame with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance, and MIL-STD-810H durability. Its 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED screen runs at 165Hz, with 10-bit color and Dolby Vision HDR for bright, detailed visuals. Under the hood, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 powers up to 16GB RAM and up to 1TB UFS 4.1 storage for smooth performance. The 5,200mAh battery supports 90W wired and 50W wireless charging, plus 10W reverse charging. The triple 50MP rear cameras include OIS on the main and tele, and autofocus on the ultrawide, with 8K Dolby Vision video. Connectivity covers Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, NFC, and eSIM; software promises up to seven Android upgrades from Android 16.

SpaceX launches 12th long-duration crew to ISS on Crew-12 mission

February 16, 2026, 7:30 PM EST. SpaceX launched its Crew-12 mission from Cape Canaveral early Friday, sending a Falcon 9 rocket topped with the Crew Dragon capsule Freedom to the International Space Station. The crew-NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev-are bound for an eight-month science mission in microgravity. The 25-story launcher lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at about 5:15 a.m. EST, with nine Merlin engines burning some 700,000 gallons of fuel per second. The booster returned and landed on a nearby pad as the crew began a 34-hour journey to dock at the ISS about 250 miles up.

NASA, SpaceX launch Crew-12 to ISS on Friday the 13th

February 16, 2026, 7:28 PM EST. NASA and SpaceX launched the Crew-12 mission to the ISS (International Space Station), lifting off from Space Launch Complex 40 on a Falcon 9 rocket with the Dragon Freedom crew capsule. The 5:15 a.m. EST liftoff marked the first NASA crewed flight on a Friday the 13th, a quip from the launch director underscoring a lucky streak. The crew-NASA's Jessica Meir, Jack Hathaway, ESA's Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos' Andrey Fedyaev-will spend about eight months aboard the station. The Dragon separated from the upper stage and is slated to dock Saturday around 3:15 p.m. EST. Jared Isaacman, acting as NASA Administrator for the mission, praised the teams delivering a long-duration test of international crew operations and the U.S. return to keeping astronauts in orbit.

NASA, SpaceX launch Crew-12 to the ISS on Friday the 13th

February 16, 2026, 7:26 PM EST. NASA and SpaceX launched the Crew-12 mission to the ISS on Friday the 13th, with the Dragon Freedom separating after liftoff from the Falcon 9 upper stage at 5:15 a.m. EST. The nine-engine Merlin 1D-powered rocket carried four crewmembers toward orbit, then landed the booster at Landing Zone 40. The crew-NASA astronaut Jessica Meir, NASA's Jack Hathaway, ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev-are set for an eight-month stay, docking about 3:15 p.m. EST on Saturday, Feb. 14. Jared Isaacman, acting as NASA Administrator, said the launch was a privilege to witness. This marks the first crewed launch for a Friday the 13th.

Nvidia faces renewed market scrutiny as AI rivals and digital-twin bets test investor nerves

February 16, 2026, 7:20 PM EST. An opinion piece warns that Nvidia could face renewed scrutiny even as its AI platform powers deployments. It recalls January 27, 2025's 'Black Monday' when DeepSeek claimed a cheaper model, sending Nvidia stock down before a later rebound. The author notes Alibaba released a multimodal Qwen model, and argues coverage may fixate on cheaper silicon rather than Nvidia's advantages. The piece links a broader decline in industrial software after Schindler reportedly dropped a digital twin partner, weighing on Dassault and Siemens. It argues that investors may pursue guilt by association with Nvidia, even as many AI applications for Schindler-like use cases will rely on Nvidia tech. The author questions whether Schindler or others will build independent chips, highlighting market fragility.

Nvidia under renewed pressure as AI rivals and digital-twin ties shake markets

February 16, 2026, 7:18 PM EST. Markets worry Nvidia as a wave of AI chatter and corporate moves ripple through tech stocks. The piece recalls a January 2025 selloff sparked by DeepSeek's claims, Reuters-style: DeepSeek's model prompted a sharp hit to Nvidia and the broader AI bet, then faded as headlines shifted to geopolitical tensions. It notes Alibaba unveiled a new multimodal AI model, and cautions that press coverage may focus on cheaper silicon rather than Nvidia's platform superiority. Separately, Dassault and Siemens saw shares fall after reports that Schindler dropped a digital-twin partner, stoking fears that AI adoptions could be a bandwagon risk for infrastructure players. The author suggests guilt by association could pressure Nvidia even as demand for AI in industrial apps remains likely to anchor its platform.

Scientist behind Rome's self-healing concrete launches Roman-style building-material business

February 16, 2026, 7:10 PM EST. MIT Associate Professor Admir Masic has tied a centuries-old material mystery to a modern business. After confirming that ancient Rome used a hot-mixed concrete that traps reactive lime and volcanic ash, he and colleagues traced the self-healing behavior to tiny lime clasts that redissolve to seal cracks. The work, validated at a Pompeii site where such concrete endured, challenges Vitruvius's account of Roman mixing and suggests a broader set of reactive minerals in the ash. Inspired by the findings, Masic is launching a concrete venture that commercializes the same durability, blending historical insight with today's production. The move underscores how old materials inform new markets in construction.

MIT scientist behind Rome's self-healing concrete launches Roman-style concrete business

February 16, 2026, 7:08 PM EST. MIT Associate Professor Admir Masic confirmed that ancient Rome used hot-mixing to create self-healing concrete, challenging Vitruvius's account. At a Pompeii site preserved by the 79 CE eruption, researchers analyzed lime fragments and volcanic ash, identifying reactive minerals that aid crack repair. Three years later, Masic launched a concrete business to commercialize a Roman-style mix designed to endure. The approach traps lime during the dry mix, so when water enters, the lime clasts dissolve and seal cracks. The work links theory, history and field evidence, while revisiting Vitruvius's writings. MIT and GNN reported the findings, which illuminate Roman engineering and could influence modern formulations of durable concrete.

Google System February 2026 updates roll out across Android devices, Wear OS and more

February 16, 2026, 7:04 PM EST. Google's February 2026 System Release Notes outline updates across Play services, Play Store and platform components for Android phones, Wear OS, TVs, Auto and PC. Highlights include Play services v26.06 with new developer features for Location & Context, improved earthquake visuals in Safety & Emergency, and system-management tweaks that boost connectivity, updatability, battery life, storage and network usage; a new local file backup feature saves downloads to Google Drive. Android System Intelligence B.22 and Private Compute Services B.22 show maintenance changes. Play services v26.05 adds transit data display controls and new Device Connectivity features; Wallet expands passport support for ID Pass. Play Store v50.1 ends publication for outdated EngageSDK versions. v26.04 improves account storage purchases; device setup is streamlined.

Tesla weighs FSD pricing as subscription replaces outright purchase

February 16, 2026, 7:02 PM EST. Tesla is transitioning FSD from a one-time buy to a subscription after pulling the US option. Musk has warned prices may rise as the software matures, while the current $99/month take rate sits near 12%. That rate leaves room to grow to hit a compensation target. Owners proposed alternatives: lower prices around $49-$69/month; a split model with $50/month for supervised and $300/month for unsupervised (including insurance); and time-based options such as $10/day, $30/week, or $999/year. Tiered pricing was popular: buyers could pick features, e.g., $50/month for Supervised + Autopark, with extras like Summon adding cost. Tesla's view frames FSD as the transport future, making daily passes unlikely; the market response will shape the final plan.

Apple Music in iOS 26.4 beta adds fullscreen album and playlist design, in-app concert info

February 16, 2026, 7:00 PM EST. Apple Music in iOS 26.4 beta introduces a fullscreen design for albums and playlists, with the track list set against a background color that complements artwork. The update also adds concerts near you in the Music app, showing artist tour dates and local shows. A redesigned profile screen appears across Music, Podcasts and TV, linking account shortcuts such as adding funds or redeeming gift cards. The change pairs with existing pricing, with Apple Music priced at $10.99 per month for individuals or available via Apple One bundles.

UA Little Rock to launch AI bachelor's degree this fall

February 16, 2026, 6:46 PM EST. University of Arkansas at Little Rock plans to launch a bachelor's degree in AI this fall, joining a growing slate of Arkansas programs. The program aims to teach skills not covered by the existing computer science degree, including AI model development, and will offer stackable certificates alongside the BS. Professors say the degree will prepare graduates for a rapidly expanding job market, as employers seek people who can manage and govern AI. The proposal received approval from UALR's Board of Trustees; the Arkansas Department of Higher Education must sign off, with a final decision expected in April. Officials also stress AI literacy across majors to support various professions amid a national AI race and security concerns.

UA Little Rock to launch AI bachelor's degree this fall

February 16, 2026, 6:44 PM EST. UA Little Rock plans to launch a bachelor's degree in artificial intelligence this fall, part of a wider push by Arkansas universities to build AI capacity. The program aims to teach AI model development and governance beyond the current Computer Science track, with a math-heavy core and practical applications. Students can earn stackable certificates in the first two years, and the degree is designed to be accessible to non-CS majors- from nursing to business- providing foundational AI knowledge for all. Associate Professor Phillip Huff says the initiative responds to rising job postings that demand AI expertise and to a national urgency to stay ahead in AI development amid competition with China. The Board of Trustees approved the plan; final sign-off from the Arkansas Department of Higher Education is expected in April.

Trillion-dollar AI market wipeout: investors price in universal winners, Deutsche Bank says

February 16, 2026, 6:40 PM EST. Global investors wobbled as AI disruption unsettled markets. Deutsche Bank argues the sell-off is a readjustment from overly optimistic expectations. Software equities bore the brunt as traders weigh whether large language models will eclipse current services. JPMorgan estimated as much as $2 trillion in market-cap losses in software. Jim Reid of Deutsche says the long-term winners and losers remain unknown and that markets previously priced almost every tech company as a winner. A shift toward realistic differentiation is spreading through the economy. Jamie Dimon cautioned that some assets may be in bubble territory, while distinguishing AI from generative AI. Wharton's Jeremy Siegel says focus on payback periods and durable moats as leadership rotates amid rapid tech change.

AI Demand Clears Out Western Digital's Hard Drive Supply for 2026

February 16, 2026, 6:38 PM EST. Western Digital Corp. says AI-driven demand is clearing out supply for 2026. It has purchase orders from its top seven clients for this year, with two orders for 2027 and one for 2028. The disclosure, dated February 16, 2026, outlines a stepped demand backdrop and does not include production figures.

Unity to roll out AI tool enabling games from natural language

February 16, 2026, 6:36 PM EST. Unity Software says its AI tools will soon let developers prompt full casual games into existence with natural language, eliminating the need for coding. In a recent earnings call, CEO Matthew Bromberg framed AI-driven authoring as a top 2026 priority and said a beta will debut at the Game Developer Conference (GDC) in March. Unity argues the tool will combine its project context and runtime with frontier models to deliver faster, more precise results than generic AI. The firm says the move will democratize game creation and raise productivity for all users. Context: Unity AI currently uses OpenAI and Meta models for questions, code generation, and actions, with assets refined by partner models such as Scenario and Layer AI.

Apple to reveal new Macs, iPads at March 4 'Special Experience' event

February 16, 2026, 6:34 PM EST. Apple has announced a March 4 event branded a Special Apple Experience, starting at 9 AM ET in New York. The company has offered no product specifics, but speculation points to updates across Macs, iPads and iPhones. A budget iPhone 17e is expected to run an A19 chip, similar to the base iPhone 17, and may add MagSafe charging, though not a multi-camera setup. Price will be the defining factor, as the current non-Pro iPhone 16/17 lineup sits in the $600-$800 range; a new $599 budget option would need compelling value. Ars Technica will be on the ground to cover the unveiling in New York.

Apple adds Formula 1 channel to Apple TV app ahead of 2026 season

February 16, 2026, 6:32 PM EST. Apple has added a dedicated Formula 1 channel to the Apple TV app as it widens sports content ahead of the 2026 season. The channel sits in the app's sidebar on iPhone, iPad and Mac, near the MLS tab (Major League Soccer), with no option to edit, move or delete the shortcut on devices with iOS 26 or later. Under a deal struck in late 2025, all races will be available to Apple TV subscribers in the United States at no extra cost. The feature currently shows past Albert Park races, bonus content and easy pre-add to Up Next; the 2026 schedule is visible as well, with the season starting March 8 in Melbourne.

AI's 'Second Wave' redefines startups with new products

February 16, 2026, 6:30 PM EST. AI's so-called second wave is prompting startups to pivot toward products built around automation, data insights and embedded intelligence. Founders report faster prototyping, leaner go-to-market cycles, and a shift in investor expectations as AI-driven tools lower development barriers. Analysts say the trend favors productized platforms over one-off services. Early adopters integrate AI as core functionality, creating new revenue streams and defensible moats. Caution remains about data quality, regulatory constraints and talent costs as startups chase scalable models. The shift reflects broader enterprise demand for AI-powered workflows, with venture capital funding tilting toward teams that pair domain expertise with practical AI applications.

Firefly to launch Alpha; SpaceX to launch three Starlink missions

February 16, 2026, 6:28 PM EST. Firefly Aerospace is targeting a mission to orbit with its Alpha rocket, testing a smaller, faster-to-market launcher as it seeks a foothold in the competitive small-satellite sector. In parallel, SpaceX plans three Starlink missions, continuing the expansion of its broadband constellation. The preview underscores a busy period for launch providers, with cadence and reliability as key questions for both teams. Specific launch windows, sites, and payload details were not disclosed. Officials were not immediately available for comment. Analysts say, if successful, the flights would reinforce a trend toward more frequent, commercially driven access to orbit, while keeping pressure on rivals to match pace.

Retail listing leaks Galaxy Buds 4 Pro images and features ahead of Unpacked

February 16, 2026, 6:20 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Buds 4 Pro appear in a retail listing with official renders and feature details. The earbuds use a stem-style design with an ergonomic fit and silicone tips. The case shows a transparent lid, USB-C charging, and a dedicated button to locate a connected phone by ringing. The listing cites automatic noise adjustment, head-gesture controls, and a real-time hearing interpreter. Interpreter Mode can be activated by pinching and holding both stems; head gestures control calls and notifications. A 3.0 bidirectional speaker system, about 26 hours of battery life, and IP57 water resistance are noted. The device is expected to debut at Galaxy Unpacked on February 25.

UK extends Online Safety Act to all AI chatbots after Grok uproar

February 16, 2026, 6:18 PM EST. Britain will require all AI chatbots to meet the Online Safety Act's content-safety duties, expanding rules beyond user-to-user platforms. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the move closes a legal loophole and speeds safeguards against illegal or harmful AI output. It follows the Grok controversy on X, where the bot enabled sexualized images of women and children. Ofcom notes some chatbots fall outside current rules, particularly those that only allow interaction with users. The plan dovetails with a broader push to protect children online, including a consultation on banning social media for under-16s. The act already requires age checks and bans on AI-generated non-consensual intimate material.

Apple Watch Series 11 goes on Presidents' Day sale for $299, plus other Apple deals

February 16, 2026, 6:14 PM EST. Apple kicks off Presidents' Day sales with the Apple Watch Series 11 at $299, a $100 discount and the lowest price yet. The watch was named the best smartwatch by Engadget, scoring 90/100 in its review and offering 24+ hours of battery life, a slim build, and new health metrics like hypertension alerts and a Sleep Score. The 42mm GPS model is available in four colors: Jet Black Space Gray with a Black band, Rose Gold with a Light Blush band, and Silver with a Purple Fog band. Additional deals target accessories, including AirPods, first-gen AirTags, the iPhone battery pack, and Apple's crossbody straps. Engadget will continue to track the presidents' day Apple gear deals via @EngadgetDeals.

DXC accelerates enterprise AI push with Amazon Quick rollout, London center and Assure platform

February 16, 2026, 6:12 PM EST. DXC Technology has completed a global deployment of Amazon Quick across its operations and launched the DXC Amazon Quick Practice to formalize AI services. It opened an AI-focused Customer Experience Center in London and expanded its PoloWorks partnership with AI-enabled platforms including Assure for insurance clients. The moves come as the stock faces weak long-term returns and revenue pressure, highlighting a push to data-driven, automated operations in regulated sectors. The aim is higher deal sizes, stronger renewals and greater client stickiness, while narrowing the gap with peers like Accenture, IBM and Cognizant. Key questions: can the AI offerings deliver a broader pipeline, faster execution, and durable contracts beyond flagship clients?

Visible Space Coast rocket launches seen in Palm Beach County, Florida

February 16, 2026, 6:04 PM EST. Observers in West Palm Beach can glimpse launches from Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center when weather and trajectory cooperate. Liftoffs appear as far north as Jacksonville Beach and as far south as the Gold Coast, about 150 miles away. Night or pre-dawn launches yield dramatic images of the rocket and its glowing contrail. Recent NASA/SpaceX Crew-12 activity drew photos from Greg Lovett of The Palm Beach Post. In 2025, Starship tests from Starbase, Texas, were visible in Palm Beach County; debris from one flight was seen across Florida. Florida residents have posted videos and photos of launches, reinforcing the region's reputation for sightlines to the Space Coast.

Tesla expands Buffalo workforce as it pushes into solar panels

February 16, 2026, 6:00 PM EST. Tesla is expanding its Buffalo, New York workforce as it broadens a push into solar panels, signaling a deeper tilt toward integrated energy solutions. Company officials say hiring has picked up at the Buffalo facility, where production will extend beyond electric-vehicle components to solar modules and related energy-storage products. The move follows years of building out a regional footprint and comes as Tesla seeks to diversify revenue beyond cars. No timetable or headcount figures were provided. Industry watchers describe the effort as part of a broader strategy to pair manufacturing with renewable-energy offerings, leveraging local suppliers and labor to accelerate deployment.

iOS 26.4 to enable Stolen Device Protection by default on all iPhones

February 16, 2026, 5:58 PM EST. Apple plans to turn on Stolen Device Protection by default in iOS 26.4, a feature first shown earlier this year. The security option, previously optional under iOS 17.3, imposes extra checks when a device is away from familiar locations and the passcode alone cannot bypass them. In practice, accessing stored passwords or payment cards may require biometric verification via Face ID or Touch ID, with no passcode fallback. A Security Delay can require you to wait an hour and re-authenticate to change settings such as your Apple Account password. Apple still lets users disable the default. MacRumors cites Apple's support document; the company says the aim is to prevent a thief with a stolen device from making critical changes.

iOS 26.4 beta 1 adds RCS testing, AI playlists, redesigned Music and Wallpaper Gallery

February 16, 2026, 5:56 PM EST. Apple's iOS 26.4 beta 1 is out for developers, build 23E5207q. The update spans Messages, Podcasts, Music, Wallpaper Gallery and Reminders. In Messages, testing for encrypted RCS messaging is added for iPhone-to-iPhone use. Apple Podcasts gains HLS-driven advanced video podcast capabilities and adds dynamic video ads. Apple Music gets full-screen artwork for select albums and playlists, adds concert and tour-date discovery, and a redesigned Profile section. A new Playlist Playground uses AI to generate playlists from text prompts. The Wallpaper Gallery is redesigned for quicker navigation. In Reminders, a Smart List for tasks marked as Urgent builds on the Urgent flag introduced in iOS 26.2. A public beta is expected in coming weeks.

Duolingo's AI edge faces longer-term test as translation tools sharpen competition

February 16, 2026, 5:54 PM EST. Duolingo faces renewed scrutiny as rival AI translation tools and Goldman Sachs' AI disruption basket intensify questions about the durability of its business model. The same technology that powers the company's personalization engine could erode its competitive edge if automated translation expands. Near-term catalysts hinge on stable user growth and monetization in the upcoming results; analysts also weigh the implications of rising AI-driven competition for pricing power. The company sticks to targets of more than 50 million daily active users and over $1 billion in annual revenue by 2025, underscoring resilience in engagement and monetization even as AI tools improve. Longer term, optimistic bets on revenue and earnings face spillover risks if generative tools shrink paid user demand. Investors will parse how AI dynamics affect Duolingo's growth trajectory and margins at the next earnings release.

Apple reports best-ever iPhone sales as Mac dips

February 16, 2026, 5:50 PM EST. Apple reported record iPhone sales as Mac demand lagged. In remarks to the BBC, a female Apple executive said products, including packaging, should offer a pleasurable, perfect experience. She added that the current stumbling responses of ChatGPT are very un-Apple-like, a factor that could explain the firm's caution in rolling out AI. The comments underscore Apple's emphasis on user experience as it pursues AI development amid broader tech-economy headwinds. The excerpt provides limited detail on quarterly results beyond the iPhone/Mac split.

Omdia forecasts Apple AR glasses in 2028 with dual OLEDoS displays; Meta's Ray-Ban Display leads on brightness

February 16, 2026, 5:48 PM EST. Omdia forecasts Apple's AR glasses will arrive in 2028, years after Meta's planned 2027 entry. The research firm says Apple is prioritizing AI-enabled eyewear, with a 0.6-inch dual OLEDoS display, while Meta aims for a full AR line using dual OLEDoS and a waveguide. ROG and RayNeo are targeting launches this year. OLEDoS, or OLED-on-silicon, embeds OLEDs directly on silicon for higher pixel density and efficiency. Apple is also pursuing a 2026 release for AI-enabled glasses featuring cameras, microphones and speakers, but not an integrated AR display. Meta's Ray-Ban Display already offers a large built-in view, up to 42 pixels per degree and up to 5,000 nits brightness, priced at $799 with the Neural Band. The competition hinges on display tech, power and real-world readability outdoors.

AI layoffs in Denver and Golden federal cuts test Colorado workforce resilience

February 16, 2026, 5:46 PM EST. Colorado's AI-driven layoff wave hits Denver as Angi Inc. announces 350 positions cut this quarter to fund AI-driven efficiency changes, a move analysts say could save up to $80 million annually. Experts warn that up to 90% of jobs face disruption, but the segment frames AI as a force multiplier that can free workers from repetitive tasks and boost high-value thinking. In Golden, the National Laboratory of the Rockies cut 134 jobs in February, the lab's second round in a year, prompting the Golden Chamber of Commerce to describe how laid-off professionals affect restaurants, retailers and property tax revenue. Local chambers are positioning themselves as first responders, connecting talent with new employers amid shifting federal energy priorities.

China urged to fuse commercial space tech with military systems

February 16, 2026, 5:44 PM EST. Researchers from a university affiliated with China's Central Military Commission urge the nation to develop dual-use satellite networks to expand the military uses of commercial technology. The appeal mirrors a trend where private space tech feeds military capabilities. In the United States, the military has pressed ahead with commercial satellites such as Starlink to bolster a more capable command system. SpaceX has asked to launch up to one million satellites to power AI data centers, expanding Starlink, which already operates about 10,000 satellites. China has warned that rapid constellations raise congestion and collision risks. A report from the National University of Defence Technology argues that as commercial satellites become more involved in warfare, the line between civilian and military uses blurs, shifting space toward tactical operations.

LFP overtakes nickel-based batteries to become 2025's dominant EV chemistry, led by China

February 16, 2026, 5:42 PM EST. LFP was the fastest-growing EV battery chemistry in 2025, with demand rising about 48% per RhoMotion, and it overtook nickel-based packs to become the global leader. China spearheaded adoption, followed by Europe and other Asian markets. The shift comes as automakers move away from nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) batteries due to high costs and environmental concerns tied to nickel and cobalt, despite NMC's higher energy density. Advances in cell-to-pack designs and material optimization helped close the energy-density gap. By last year, LFP accounted for more than half of global EV deployments; China sold over 80% of its EVs with LFP in January-November. Europe and non-China Asia drove roughly 75% of LFP growth. CATL remains the dominant LFP supplier, powering a sizable share of regional EVs.

Apple Xcode 26.3 adds native Claude Agent SDK integration for autonomous AI-assisted coding

February 16, 2026, 5:40 PM EST. Apple's Xcode 26.3 introduces native integration with the Claude Agent SDK, expanding Claude's role from on-demand code assistance to autonomous, long-running tasks inside the IDE. The update follows the September rollout of Claude Sonnet 4 in Xcode 26 and enables subagents, background tasks, and plugins without leaving Xcode. Developers can use Claude Code to perform visual verification with Previews, letting Claude capture SwiftUI views to test interfaces and iterate toward the design intent. The tool can reason across projects by mapping frameworks like SwiftUI, UIKit, and Swift Data, exploring the full file structure and architecture. It supports autonomous task execution, where Claude breaks tasks into steps, modifies files, and revises as needed, with access to Apple's documentation. Xcode 26.3 is a release candidate for the Apple Developer Program, with App Store availability forthcoming.

Apple Podcasts rolls out video experience powered by HLS with dynamic ads

February 16, 2026, 5:38 PM EST. Apple on February 16 announced a spring rollout of a new video podcast experience in Apple Podcasts, built on HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) to deliver higher-quality video and dynamic ads. The update lets users switch between watching and listening, view video in-app, watch in full horizontal display, and download episodes for offline viewing. Automatic quality adjustment via HLS aims to smooth playback on Wi-Fi or cellular networks and keep recommendations and Editorial curation intact. For creators, the system enables distribution through participating hosting providers and ad networks such as Acast, ART19, Omny Studio, and SiriusXM's family, with support for dynamic video ads and host reads. Apple charges no distribution fees; ad networks will incur impression-based fees later this year.

February 2026: Readers name Galaxy S25, Pixel 9a among phones to avoid

February 16, 2026, 5:36 PM EST. Android Authority surveyed readers to name the phones they would avoid buying in February 2026. The Galaxy S25 line topped the list, with commenters noting minimal upgrades in the S26 but some features like Privacy Display and faster charging on the Ultra as arguments for keeping their distance from the older model. Close behind were the Pixel 9a and Galaxy A56, followed by expectations for the Pixel 10a and Galaxy A57, which are rumored to bring design tweaks, a metal frame and faster charging. OnePlus devices also drew criticism for downgrades versus previous models, though they may still suit gamers seeking raw performance. The piece notes several major launches later in February-the Pixel 10, iPhone 17e, and Galaxy S26-plus potential reveals around MWC 2026.

Eight Phones for Photographers in 2026: Budget and Premium Options

February 16, 2026, 5:34 PM EST. Eight phones earn top marks for photographers in 2026, spanning budget and premium tiers. The list evaluates camera hardware, software, shooting modes and overall value, with prices current at publication. It emphasizes that strong photography isn't limited to high price; several sub-$600 devices punch above their weight. The Samsung Galaxy A56 is the cheapest on the list at about $364.50, featuring a 50MP main camera, 12MP ultrawide, and a 5MP macro camera. DXOMark scores the A56 at 114 (higher is better), placing it behind many older premium models. Reviewers note solid image quality and dedicated Galaxy modes, though the macro camera may underperform. The article promises eight total selections, balancing budget accessibility with expensive flagship options for photographers.

NVIDIA Blackwell Ultra GB300 NVL72 Delivers Up to 50× Tokens/Watt for Agentic AI

February 16, 2026, 5:32 PM EST. NVIDIA's Blackwell Ultra targets hyperscalers with the GB300 NVL72 configuration. The 72-GPU front and unified NVLink fabric offer 130 TB/s of connectivity, enabling strong low-latency and long-context workloads for agentic AI. In a blog post referencing SemiAnalysis's InferenceMAX benchmarks, NVIDIA claims a 50× increase in throughput per megawatt versus Hopper GPUs, aided by NVLink upgrades and the NVFP4 precision format. The company also highlights a 35× reduction in cost per million tokens and, for frontier labs, about 1.5× lower cost per token with 2× faster attention processing. Analysts see this as part of an ongoing, extreme co-design and Huang's Law-driven push toward higher token efficiency and memory bandwidth for agentic computing.

Lenovo's Sapphire poised to be the first Chromebook Plus detachable, powered by MediaTek

February 16, 2026, 5:30 PM EST. Lenovo's internal project named Sapphire is positioned to become the world's first Chromebook Plus detachable. Built by Lenovo and powered by the MediaTek Kompanio Ultra chip, the tablet carries a 13-inch display and a wirelessly charging USI pen, along with the device's signature four-color light bar. The move to Chromebook Plus status matches external hardware uncovered in Chromium sources and aims to offer the full AI features Google has tied to Plus, such as Magic Editor in Google Photos, Live Caption, and Gemini integration, on a tablet form factor. Historically, ChromeOS tablets traded performance for portability; Sapphire seeks to erase that compromise and stand as a Pixel Slate successor. A release window has not been disclosed.

Best Android smartwatches in 2026: Galaxy Watch 8 series, Pixel Watch 4 lead the pack

February 16, 2026, 5:26 PM EST. Android users now have a range of smartwatches that blend health tracking, productivity and style. The piece surveys models launched through 2025 that still define 2026. Samsung's Galaxy Watch 8 and 8 Classic top the field, running Wear OS 6 with One UI 8, and offering up to 3,000 nits brightness, a Dynamic Lug system for quick band changes, and features such as vascular load monitoring, AI-powered energy scores and advanced sleep tracking. The lineup is thinner and lighter than prior generations. Google's Pixel Watch 4, with Snapdragon W5 Gen 2, 3,000 nits displays, Readiness Score and Cardio Load, targets Google users who rely on Assistant, Gmail, Maps and YouTube Music. OnePlus Watch 3 emphasizes a sharp, bright display and daily-wear durability. The roundup frames tradeoffs across ecosystems for Android fans.

DJI Neo hits $149, its lowest price yet for a 4K, palm-sized drone

February 16, 2026, 5:24 PM EST. DJI's Neo drone is priced at $149, officially the lowest price in its line and not a refurbished unit. Weighing 135 grams, it avoids US FAA registration under 250g and requires no Remote ID for casual flights, while still delivering 4K video with electronic stabilization. Key features include AI-powered subject tracking, QuickShots, palm takeoff/landing, Smart Return-to-Home, full propeller guards and up to 18 minutes of flight per battery. The bundle is 'controller-free': control options include palm launch, gesture control, voice commands, and the DJI Fly app, with optional controller bundles available at deeper discounts. Available configurations range from the base Neo (1 Battery, Controller-Free) to three-battery, Fly More, and FPV-style Motion Fly More kits.

Samsung teases Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display use cases in teaser video

February 16, 2026, 5:22 PM EST. Samsung teases the Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display, a display-tech feature that hides content from onlookers while keeping it readable. The feature can obfuscate certain areas-like notifications-rather than a blanket block, per early teasers. In a new teaser, Samsung shows a rider reading spicy literature and personal messages, hinting at real-world uses. Early leaks point to a Galaxy S26 Ultra-exclusive Privacy Display; the broader Galaxy S26 line is expected to launch on February 25. Samsung frames the feature as practical privacy in public settings, signaling its appeal beyond basic screen protection.

Apple sets March 4 event in New York to unveil iPads and MacBooks

February 16, 2026, 5:18 PM EST. Apple has invited press to an Apple Experience in New York City on March 4 at 9 AM ET; the company has not confirmed a public stream. MacRumors says versions will run simultaneously in London and Shanghai. The event is expected to showcase a new MacBook Air and refreshed 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros featuring the M5 Pro and M5 Max. An entry-level MacBook in bright colors is also anticipated. Rumors point to an iPad lineup including a model with an A18 chip enabling Apple Intelligence features, and a potential iPad Air upgrade to M4. Apple may also refresh Mac Studio, Studio Display and Mac mini later this year.

Seiko 1994 MessageWatch reminds what wearable tech on the wrist could be

February 16, 2026, 5:16 PM EST. An author nostalgic for digital gadgets on the wrist explains why today's smartwatches feel intrusive. As a child of the 1980s and 1990s, they remember life before constant screens and reconnect with a Seiko MessageWatch from 1994, worn again to remind themselves that tech on the wrist can be simple. The piece contrasts modern smartwatches with a device that offered glanceable data like weather and quick information while staying unobtrusive. Priced around $275 in the era, the watch came in multiple variants, yet looked like a regular quartz timepiece. The author hopes for a different kind of wearable in 2026-one that serves practical needs without demanding perpetual attention.

Apple pushes emergency iOS update after zero-day in dyld; 1.8 billion iPhones urged to patch

February 16, 2026, 5:14 PM EST. Apple rolled out iOS 26.3 in an emergency update, patching 39 vulnerabilities that could let hackers view data, crash apps, or seize control of devices. The most serious flaw targets dyld, the dynamic link editor that gates app execution. Security experts describe dyld as the iPhone's doorman; the zero-day could let attackers run code before defenses kick in. Apple says the issue may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack against select targets on older iOS versions. The update also strengthens protections to prevent memory errors and keep personal data private. Users are urged to install the patch now or enable automatic updates via Settings > General > Software Update. The fix covers iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV and Safari.

RAM shortage could raise Switch 2 price, delay PS6 release, Bloomberg reports

February 16, 2026, 5:10 PM EST. RAM shortages (random-access memory) tied to AI demand are rattling hardware pricing. Bloomberg reports that the crunch could affect consoles and PCs this year. In gaming, the Switch 2 could see a price spike as suppliers work through limited memory modules. Sony may push back the PlayStation 6 release to 2028 or 2029, after Mashable previously flagged a potential delay. While not final, the reported timing shifts may complicate launches amid manufacturing constraints. The reports reference unnamed insiders. The story underscores how AI-driven demand for memory is reshaping product calendars and price expectations across major platforms.

Android Auto 16.3 beta hints at light theme, video apps

February 16, 2026, 5:08 PM EST. Google has begun rolling out Android Auto 16.3 in beta. The update appears modest in user terms, with no major new features yet. Behind the scenes, Google is still tinkering with a light theme and a toggle between light and dark modes, with flags in the APK suggesting ongoing work but no user-facing switch yet. The most notable entry is a flag named CradleFeature__allow_video_apps, signaling continued work on video apps for the car display. Google had announced in May 2025 that video apps were coming, though details and timing remain unclear. This remains a signal-driven preview; final features may change before a public release.

Google sued over alleged copying of David Greene's voice for NotebookLM

February 16, 2026, 5:02 PM EST. Radio host David Greene is suing Google, alleging it copied his voice for NotebookLM. The California complaint, filed January 23, claims Google sought to replicate Greene's distinctive voice to create synthetic audio that mimics his delivery and persona. It cites violations of California's right to publicity and unfair competition law, and argues Google unfairly benefited from his voice. Greene, a former NPR Morning Edition co-host, learned about NotebookLM from a former coworker and was 'freaked out' by the prospect, according to the Washington Post. The paper and others have reported on the suit; Google has issued a response, but no further details were disclosed in the cited reporting.

IonQ Tops February's Quantum-Computing Stock Picks

February 16, 2026, 5:00 PM EST. The author calls IonQ the top quantum computing stock for February, arguing its position rests on industry-leading accuracy. IonQ reported 99.99% 2-qubit gate fidelity, well ahead of rivals whose scores hover around 99.9%. The piece notes quantum computing remains unproven commercially, with accuracy as the pivotal metric. If IonQ can extend its lead, it could capture substantial demand in a market McKinsey & Company projects at roughly $28 billion to $72 billion by 2035. Still, the outlook carries risk: competitors could improve, and the venture carries biotech-like uncertainty-many will fail, but winners could deliver outsized gains.

Gboard beta introduces cursor mode, turning the keyboard into a trackpad

February 16, 2026, 4:58 PM EST. Google's Gboard beta reveals a hidden cursor mode that replaces the keyboard with a virtual trackpad, letting users move the caret anywhere on screen, even outside a text field. The finding was reported by Android Authority in testing the latest Gboard APK. Current space-bar trick lets you slide the cursor a few characters, but the new mode promises faster text edits. The idea mirrors Apple's iOS cursor feature, which dates back to 3D Touch and was later expanded in iOS 12. While Google's keyboard generally outpaces iOS in typing experience, this change would bring iPhone-like speed for cursor placement. Rollout remains uncertain; Google often tests features before broad release. If it lands widely, Gboard would keep edging ahead by adopting a familiar, efficient navigation method that rivals smartphone keyboards.

Trempealeau County warns of pop-up scam that locks computers

February 16, 2026, 4:56 PM EST. Trempealeau County, Wis. – The Trempealeau County Sheriff's Office says it has received multiple reports of an internet scam. In a Facebook post, deputies describe a pop-up alert or link that appears on a computer screen claiming a security issue. The computer will lock up, and the message provides a phone number to call. The scammer then asks for payment to unlock the machine. Officials urge residents to never pay or call the number and to contact local law enforcement immediately if they encounter the alert or believe they've been targeted.

Apple releases iOS 26.4 beta 1; Siri upgrades delayed

February 16, 2026, 4:48 PM EST. Apple has released the first iOS 26.4 beta 1 for iPhone, with no immediate Siri upgrades. Reports say Apple struck a January deal with Google to use Gemini AI, Google's latest AI technology, to bolster future Siri features. iOS 26.3, released previously, was light on changes. The beta 1 update includes an easier way to switch between Android and iPhone, tweaks to the Astronomy and Weather wallpaper gallery, and a new cellular-location feature for iPhones and iPads with Apple C1 and C1X modems that limits precise location with select service providers. Stay tuned for further changes as developers test iOS 26.4.

IBM AI strategy under scrutiny as FlashSystem storage and defense win shape outlook

February 16, 2026, 4:44 PM EST. IBM (NYSE: IBM) faces public criticism of its AI strategy as influential voices question the direction, even as it rolls out one of its most significant AI-powered storage systems, the FlashSystem lineup. The company also won a multi-billion-dollar contract with the Missile Defense Agency, tying AI to infrastructure, security, and defense workloads. At $262.38, the stock trades with mixed signals: down about 11.5% over the past week, 14.2% this month, and 10% year-to-date, while the 3-year return remains strong. The critical question is whether these AI products and government wins translate into durable revenue growth or stay limited to select customers. Analysts watch how the launches affect IBM's hybrid cloud strategy and longer-term trajectory.

Android 17 Beta 1 reveals Pixel Launcher search bar as Google widget, hints at third-party search providers

February 16, 2026, 4:40 PM EST. Android 17 Beta 1 changes the Pixel Launcher search bar into the Google widget. Hidden settings suggest users could pick third-party search providers such as DuckDuckGo, Mozilla Firefox, Chrome, Pixel Search, and even Google Maps. The update also mentions a customizable AI Mode shortcut; a hidden Search settings option lets users choose the provider. The change extends to what appears on the home screen's Discover screen minus-one card, where Google has so far approved only the Google app. The shifts are likely influenced by antitrust rules in some regions. It remains unclear how much of the beta changes will survive to the final Android 17 release, and reverting to the old search bar appears unavailable.

Honor Magic V6 breaks cover ahead of MWC launch

February 16, 2026, 4:36 PM EST. Honor is pushing a teaser campaign for the Magic V6 foldable after a live sighting with actor Nicholas Tse ahead of its MWC Barcelona debut. The red model preserves the octagon camera island, with red and gold accents, and keeps flat edges plus a fingerprint sensor in the power button. The Chinese version is expected to ship with a 7,150mAh battery and 120W charging. Powering the V6 is tipped to be Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, paired with a 200MP main camera. The sneak preview, together with the battery, charging speeds and camera specs, underlines a premium foldable lineup slated for introduction at MWC Barcelona.

Tesla FSD lake incident spurs regulator probes, highlights subscription shift

February 16, 2026, 4:28 PM EST. Video shows a Tesla using Full Self-Driving (FSD) version 14.2.2.4 steering toward a lake, attracting 1.2 million views on X. The clip sits among recent incidents blamed on FSD, though different software versions were involved. Regulators are watching: the NHTSA opened probes into roughly 2.88 million Teslas, examining 58 FSD-related incidents with 14 crashes and 23 injuries, with red-light running and opposing-lane driving flagged. The regulator attention coincides with more than 50 deaths linked to driver-assist systems, underscoring safety concerns. Tesla later shifted FSD to a $99 monthly subscription, framing the feature as a service requiring updates rather than a finished product. While some rate FSD as among the best Level 2 systems, it's not ready to replace human attention.

Las Vegas pilots AI-powered signals to boost pedestrian safety on Fremont Street

February 16, 2026, 4:26 PM EST. Las Vegas is deploying AI-powered signals to boost pedestrian safety along the Fremont Street Experience. Sixteen smart signals will detect pedestrians and adjust traffic flow in real time as part of the city's Vision Zero Program, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities. The initiative is funded by a $1.4 million grant secured by U.S. Rep. Dina Titus. If the pilot succeeds, Mayor Shelley Berkley says the system could roll out citywide. The priority comes as downtown sees about 26 million visitors annually, with officials seeking to shorten wait times at crossings and better coordinate vehicle and foot traffic.

Android 17 to skip usual beta grind as Google trims beta releases

February 16, 2026, 4:24 PM EST. Google reshaped Android's release cadence in 2025, moving from one major platform release per year to two. The first major SDK release will land in Q2, followed by a smaller update in Q4. Android 17 is expected to follow the same structure but with fewer beta builds. Last year's Android 16 provided a concrete beta timeline; for 17, the plan is less explicit, with references to 'Later Beta Releases' and a potential final release in June (per 9to5Google). Google says it will move quickly from Beta to Platform Stability. Some observers expect fewer user-facing changes, with features delivered via Quarterly Platform Releases (QPR) or the Canary Channel for faster internal testing.

Distraction-free notes with the reMarkable 2 paper tablet

February 16, 2026, 4:22 PM EST. Tech journalists test a paper-focused notetaking device: the reMarkable 2 paper tablet. Android tablets and iPads remain distracting due to vivid screens, while the reMarkable 2 aims to strip away clutter. The 10.3-inch monochrome e-ink display runs at 1872×1404, about 226 PPI, with low latency and a tactile, paper-like texture that yields a satisfying scratch when writing. The device emphasizes focused notetaking by converting handwriting to text via OCR and sports a slim aluminum chassis at 4.7mm. Not for everyone, it suits users seeking a distraction-free workflow and a clear boundary between ideas and apps, even if it lacks color and some multitasking features.

SanDisk aims for a Nvidia-like rise in AI memory storage

February 16, 2026, 4:20 PM EST. Sandisk is shifting from consumer flash to AI data centers, aiming to become a core memory provider in the AI stack. Nvidia dominates GPUs; Sandisk sits upstream-enterprise SSDs and NAND memory tied to hyperscalers' growth. The TAM for high-bandwidth memory was about $35 billion, with analysts projecting expansion toward $100 billion by 2028. Sandisk posted about $9 billion in revenue last year, leaving room to scale as AI deployments accelerate. If Sandisk secures enterprise wins and advances fabs and partnerships, the company could echo Nvidia's early AI-era ascent, though execution and competition remain risks. Hyperscaler capex underpins the bullish case.

Apple Seeds First Betas of iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 to Developers

February 16, 2026, 4:18 PM EST. Apple seeded the first betas of iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 to registered developers for testing, arriving less than a week after the company released iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3. The betas are available via Settings > General > Software Update on iPhone and iPad. The release could introduce several new features, but Apple appears to have hit snags with a more personalized Siri first shown at WWDC 2024, with some Siri features likely delayed until iOS 26.5 or iOS 27. Still, some capabilities, including tools for generating images and web search, may appear. Apple is also expected to include new emoji characters such as a trombone, treasure chest, orca, landslide, and Bigfoot. A public beta should follow in the next week or two.

iOS 26.4 beta teases AI playlists for Apple Music

February 16, 2026, 4:14 PM EST. Apple released the first developer beta of iOS 26.4, and Apple Music gains an AI-based playlist tool. The feature, dubbed Playlist Playground, uses Apple Intelligence to generate playlists from text prompts or song selections. The update also introduces dynamic backgrounds that follow album art colors and hints at a new concerts near you feature, with notifications for upcoming shows, likely leveraging Shazam data. Apple did not include the long-awaited Siri Gemini in this build. Availability remains limited to beta testers; Apple Music's interface for albums and playlists now includes artwork-colored backdrops, improving immersion but not altering core listening behavior.

ElevenLabs, a $11B AI startup, sets 'ruthless' sales quotas

February 16, 2026, 4:12 PM EST. ElevenLabs, an AI startup valued at about $11 billion, has set aggressive sales quotas described as ruthless by some employees. Sources say the targets are part of a push to accelerate growth as the company scales its voice AI tools. The approach marks a shift toward hard performance metrics after years of rapid product development. Executives have stressed revenue discipline, while staff weigh the pressure of meeting monthly and quarterly numbers. A spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment. The move arrives as investors increasingly demand tangible revenue results from fast-growing AI companies.

iOS 26.4 Enables Stolen Device Protection by Default for iPhones

February 16, 2026, 4:10 PM EST. Apple's iOS 26.4 will turn on Stolen Device Protection by default for all iPhones, adding layered security against theft. Introduced in 2023 after thieves learned to obtain passcodes, the feature requires Face ID or Touch ID for access to critical tasks. Actions such as viewing iCloud Keychain passwords, applying for an Apple Card, turning off Lost Mode, erasing the device, or making certain Wallet or Safari payments now demand authentication. Some actions trigger a one-hour security delay or require two biometrics. Previously, users could enable the feature manually; now it ships on by default in developer builds, with a public beta and a spring release planned. The update targets thieves who rely on bypassing locks.

Tesla bets big on robotaxis as 2026 capex tops $20 billion

February 16, 2026, 4:02 PM EST. Tesla is plowing more than $20 billion into capex in 2026, more than twice last year's outlay, signaling a shift in how the company sees the transportation market. The plan spans six factories: three for Optimus production, a Semi truck plant, and a megafactory for battery storage; plus three facilities to back EV growth-a lithium refinery, a lower-cost LFP battery plant, and Cybercab production. CEO Elon Musk argues that autonomous transport will dominate, with rides from robotaxis surpassing human-driven miles. Tesla aims to secure regulatory approval for robotaxis and commercial full self-driving (FSD) software. Data from Insurify suggests the Model 3 is a common rideshare vehicle, but a future Cybercab could cost under $30,000 with lower per-mile costs. The lithium investment underpins the battery strategy.

Switching from Windows to Linux reveals one missing feature

February 16, 2026, 4:00 PM EST. ZDNET notes modern Linux distros are easier to install and run on standard x86 hardware, but switching from Windows still demands terminal work. The author tried three distributions and, despite eventual success with two Linux PCs, found the journey time-consuming and hands-on-copying and pasting commands became routine. Google's Gemini chatbot offered guidance and a crucial tip that unlocked a successful install. On hardware, Linux remains less friendly to Arm-based machines, ruling out some Snapdragon laptops. Even Dell's XPS 13 9345, despite an Ubuntu-friendly option, proved problematic in this test. Software and online services mostly translate, but one nagging gap remains: Windows Hello's facial recognition isn't natively supported in Linux. Readers should size up hardware before making the switch.

Apple Music gains Playlist Playground AI in iOS 26.4 beta

February 16, 2026, 3:56 PM EST. Apple released the first developer beta of iOS 26.4, adding an AI feature to Apple Music called Playlist Playground. The tool lets users generate playlists from text prompts, with built-in ideas labeled New Playlist Ideas. In the Music app, tap the new playlist icon on the Library page to start, then edit, reorder, or add the result to your library. Prompts can be refined iteratively without restarting the process. If you don't see the option, the Apple Intelligence models may still be downloading-check Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri. iOS 26.4 is in developer beta; a public beta is expected in the coming weeks.

Apple tests end-to-end encrypted RCS messages in iPhone developer beta

February 16, 2026, 3:54 PM EST. Apple is testing end-to-end encrypted RCS messages in the developer beta of iOS 26.4. The rollout is intended to enable cross-platform messaging between iPhone and Android in a future update, though the current test covers encryption only between Apple devices. Apple says the feature will not ship with iOS 26.4 and will arrive later. The move comes as the GSM Association pushes E2EE on the RCS standard, part of a broader plan to extend cross-platform messaging across devices. Apple previously signaled it would support E2EE RCS on iOS, iPadOS, macOS and watchOS in upcoming software updates. The beta also adds a seamless swap between audio and video podcasts.

Pixel Now Playing to become standalone app on Play Store, likely Pixel-only

February 16, 2026, 3:48 PM EST. Google is converting its long-running Now Playing feature into a standalone app, discoverable in the Play Store. The move would separate Now Playing from Android System Intelligence, which powers Live Caption and Smart Text Selection. Google shows the app would have a new home with settings and history inside, and the package name com.google.android.apps.pixel.nowplaying suggests a full app rather than a UI tweak. Early digging indicates Play Store access could be gated by device compatibility, meaning the app may remain Pixel-exclusive for now, even if a listing appears. A launch timing is unclear, but the change could enable faster updates and new features, potentially alongside an upcoming Pixel Feature Drop. Wider availability remains uncertain.

macOS 26.4 to warn users of Rosetta 2 discontinuation as Apple schedules end of Intel app support

February 16, 2026, 3:44 PM EST. Apple's macOS 26.4 beta 1 will warn users when launching apps that rely on Rosetta 2 that the compatibility layer will soon be discontinued. Rosetta 2, introduced during the switch to Apple silicon, translates Intel apps to run on M-series Macs. Apple had said Rosetta 2 would be fully supported through macOS 27, with partial retirement starting in macOS 28. In that version, Apple will preserve a subset of Rosetta functionality for older, unmaintained games that depend on Intel-based frameworks. Apple executives have indicated macOS 28 is expected in fall 2027, giving developers time to ship native Apple silicon versions. The alert in macOS 26.4 serves as an early notice for users and developers to update apps. Intel-based Macs will continue receiving security updates for three years after macOS 26.

Three AI-spending beneficiaries: Nvidia, Broadcom and TSMC

February 16, 2026, 3:42 PM EST. AI hyperscalers plan large capital outlays in 2026. Amazon aims about $200 billion, Alphabet $175-$185 billion, and Meta $115-$135 billion. At roughly half of data-center capex, chip suppliers stand to gain as these builds surge. Nvidia, Broadcom, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC) emerge as the most direct beneficiaries, producing the chips that power the infrastructure. TSMC makes most chips for Nvidia and Broadcom, while Nvidia's data-center demand underpins much of the surge. The author notes 2026 is just the start; Nvidia even forecasts global data-center capex at $3-$4 trillion annually by 2030. Valuations aren't exorbitant, the piece says, making Nvidia, Broadcom, and TSMC attractive bets amid the AI cycle. Still, true monetization of generative AI will unfold over years.

Galaxy S25 Ultra price drop during Presidents' Day sale signals smart buy ahead of Galaxy S26

February 16, 2026, 3:40 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra remains a flagship option as the Galaxy S26 Ultra looms. In Best Buy's Presidents' Day sale, the phone starts at $949 with Verizon or AT&T; the unlocked model is $1,049, a $350 off from the usual price. While a larger upgrade is on the way, the S25 Ultra still offers a strong camera, long battery life, and a large 6.9-inch display with a peak brightness of 1,860 nits and a 1-120Hz adaptive refresh. Samsung's Galaxy AI tools include AI Select, cross-app actions and the Now Brief, plus the S Pen and Qi2 wireless charging. Macro photography could be better, but the model remains a solid value ahead of next week's release.

India hosts AI Impact Summit with world leaders in New Delhi

February 16, 2026, 3:38 PM EST. India hosts a five-day AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, drawing heads of state and tech executives to tackle governance, ethics and jobs. Modi opened the event, which seeks a shared roadmap for global AI governance and collaboration. Organizers estimate 250,000 visitors, including 20 national leaders and 45 ministerial delegations. The summit also spotlights digital public infrastructure, including India's payment and identity schemes, as a model for deploying AI at scale. Yet attendees reported crowding, unclear instructions and last-minute changes as sessions and booths faced access issues. One startup founder said he could not reach his booth amid security sweeps, while others floated options like temporary booths near Connaught Place. Officials frame the moment as a bridge between the Global South and advanced economies.

Android 17 Beta 1 adds Pixel Launcher tweaks: slimmer search bar, customizable shortcut, and At a Glance removal

February 16, 2026, 3:36 PM EST. Google's Android 17 beta 1, rolling out February 13, 2026, quietly tightens the Pixel Launcher. The home screen search bar is slimmer and now hosts a customizable shortcut, replacing the default AI Mode with options such as Gemini Live, Translate, Song Search, Weather, and Dictionary. Voice search and Google Lens shortcuts remain fixed for now. Users can remove the At a Glance widget from the Pixel home screen, a capability previously tested in earlier betas. Minor UI tweaks include a refreshed Brightness icon in Quick Settings and clearer access to the volume controls. Google frames these as polish ahead of broader updates aimed at large-screen usability and performance gains.

Apple to host 'special Apple Experience' in New York, London and Shanghai on March 4, 2026

February 16, 2026, 3:34 PM EST. Apple said it will host a special Apple Experience in New York, London and Shanghai on March 4, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. ET. The company invited select media to the three cities. Described as an 'experience' rather than a full Apple Park-style event, the gathering appears smaller in scale. Invitations show a 3D Apple logo made of colored discs. The event could feature announcements and hands-on demos of devices such as the iPhone 17e, MacBook Pro with M5 Pro/Max chips, iPad updates (Air and 12th-gen), a refreshed Studio Display, and a lower-cost MacBook with the A18 chip; Apple TV and HomePod mini are also possible. The Apple Experience begins at 9:00 a.m. ET on March 4, 2026.

NVIDIA Blackwell Ultra delivers up to 50x throughput, 35x lower costs for agentic AI, SemiAnalysis data shows

February 16, 2026, 3:32 PM EST. According to SemiAnalysis InferenceX, NVIDIA's Blackwell Ultra platform, paired with GB300 NVL72, delivers breakthrough performance for agentic AI workloads. The data show up to 50x throughput per megawatt and 35x lower cost per token versus the Hopper platform. The gains stem from extreme codesign across chips, system architecture and software, including the TensorRT-LLM library, NVIDIA Dynamo, Mooncake and SGLang. GB300 NVL72 is designed for low-latency inference across multistep workflows and large codebases. Signal65 notes that GB200 NVL72 already achieved over 10x tokens per watt. NVIDIA cites reduced idle time via programmatic dependent launch and direct GPU-to-GPU memory with NVLink Symmetric Memory. The result: stronger economics across latency targets for agentic coding and interactive assistants.

VRChat hits new all-time concurrent-user peak with Sanrio festival concert

February 16, 2026, 3:30 PM EST. VRChat said it set a new all-time concurrent-user high, reaching 156,716 during the Sanrio Virtual Festival weekend. The event, running February 8 to March 8, centers on music and anime culture, with a standout act by Kaguya, the lead from Netflix's Cosmic Princess. Community head 'Tupper' posted the milestone on X and noted a strong Japan showing after a NYE peak of 148,886 in the Central Time Zone. The festival features VTubers and a virtual Sanrio park with Hello Kitty. Three more live sessions are planned: March 1, March 7 and March 8 (all JST). VRChat has built mainstream traction in Japan, a trend linked to earlier campaigns with VTubers, including a 2025 McDonald's Japan collaboration.

AMD expands Helios AI build-out in India with TCS partnership

February 16, 2026, 3:26 PM EST. AMD is expanding its partnership with Tata Consultancy Services to deploy its Helios AI infrastructure in India. The plan centers on a rack-scale AI platform capable of supporting up to 200 MW of capacity for enterprise customers, aligning with India's growing demand for data-center-grade AI solutions. The move comes as the stock traded near $207 and has surged about 83% in the past year, 164% over three years, underscoring how sentiment tracks AI deployment and HPC ecosystems. The expanded TCS alliance could boost AMD visibility with large Indian firms building AI at scale. Helios combines Instinct GPUs, EPYC CPUs, networking and the ROCm software stack as a blueprint, addressing critics of less integrated rival stacks. Yet ramp costs and pricing risk profitability if deployments overshoot.

Apple releases macOS 26.4 beta 1; Siri, emoji and AI features eyed

February 16, 2026, 3:24 PM EST. Apple has released the first beta of macOS 26.4 for developers, days after macOS 26.3. The beta hints at potential tweaks to Siri, possibly tied to Gemini, but a Bloomberg report says Apple plans to spread features over future versions. The update may add new emoji and broaden Apple Intelligence features. Discussion also centers on enhancements to Anthropic's MCP, an open protocol that lets AI tools interact with apps, which appeared in Xcode 26.3 with agentic capabilities. Apple did not confirm specifics; researchers are combing through the beta and will report back. Readers are invited to share any changes spotted in the beta.

VRChat hits all-time peak with Sanrio Virtual Festival drawing 156,716 concurrent users

February 16, 2026, 3:16 PM EST. VRChat set a new all-time peak for concurrent users, hitting 156,716 during a weekend showcase of the Sanrio Virtual Festival. The event runs Feb. 8-Mar. 8 and centers on a performance by Kaguya, the lead character from Netflix's Cosmic Princess Kaguya. Three more live dates follow: Mar. 1 at 18:00 JST, Mar. 7 at 12:00 JST and Mar. 8 at 12:00 JST. The festival also features a virtual theme park with Sanrio icons like Hello Kitty and a slate of VTubers. VRChat previously set a New Year's Eve record, peaking at 148,886 in the Central Time Zone ball drop, with Japan-based users posting a strong showing. In 2025, McDonald's Japan opened a VRChat world as part of a VTuber marketing push.

AMD expands Helios AI build-out with Tata Consultancy Services in India

February 16, 2026, 3:12 PM EST. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) is expanding its partnership with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to deploy the Helios AI infrastructure in India. The rack-scale platform combines AMD Instinct GPUs, EPYC CPUs, networking, and the ROCm software stack into a blueprint that enterprises can buy, not assemble. The plan targets India's fast-growing AI market and a 200 MW capacity for hyperscale customers. At a share price of $207.32, AMD has rallied about 83.3% in the past year and roughly 164.1% over three years. The expanded alliance can raise AMD's visibility among large Indian enterprises building AI at scale, while testing profitability if ramp costs outpace pricing on big deployments. The move aligns with sovereign AI initiatives and enterprise spending in India.

Six firms launch Project DI, a multi-layer AI integration platform

February 16, 2026, 3:10 PM EST. Six companies-NAVER, Bloom Technology, Creta, EOGround, Lloyds Capital and Nexus Core Systems-signed a January MOU in Casablanca to jointly develop Project DI, a next-generation AI integrated platform. The consortium aims to build a multi-layered environment spanning real and virtual worlds, where AI agents and serverless technology reduce data costs and enable virtually unlimited scalability. The project emphasizes a consortium-based approach to set a new standard for digital civilization, uniting technology, planning, content and business development. It envisions users creating multiple AI personas and digital twins to handle real-world tasks while enjoying virtual experiences, with activities extending across environments and even continuing when users are offline. Announcement dated February 16, 2026, via ACCESS Newswire in Dubai.

Project DI launches next-gen global AI integration platform

February 16, 2026, 3:08 PM EST. Six companies-Bloom Technology, NAVER Cloud, Creta, EOGround, Lloyds Capital and Nexus Core Systems-signed a memorandum of understanding in Casablanca, Morocco, to jointly develop Project DI, a next-generation AI integration platform. The consortium, plus other partners, aims to fuse core technologies and infrastructure to set a new standard for future digital civilization. The platform envisions a multi-layered space spanning real and virtual worlds, where users can create multiple AI avatars and manage real-world tasks while enjoying virtual experiences. Built on integrated AI agents and serverless tech, Project DI targets lower data costs and virtually unlimited scalability, with AI digital twins and a multiverse architecture that can operate when users are offline. The project seeks to reduce the friction of constant connectivity and provide meaningful activity across environments.

Space Coast launch schedule aims for 2026 cadence after 2025 record

February 16, 2026, 3:06 PM EST. Space Coast launches closed 2025 with a record 109 orbital missions from SpaceX, ULA and Blue Origin. For 2026, planners project about 10 orbital launches, with SpaceX contributing nine Falcon 9 missions and ULA one Vulcan, plus a single crewed flight (Crew-12). The year-by-year totals show 2024 had 93 launches, 2023 had 72. Upcoming activity centers on frequent SpaceX Starlink missions from Cape Canaveral's Space Launch Complex 40, with windows in February 2026. Past launches details are at end of file.

Ricursive Intelligence raises $335 million at $4 billion valuation after 4 months

February 16, 2026, 3:02 PM EST. Ricursive Intelligence, led by Anna Goldie and Azalia Mirhoseini, raised a combined $335 million in four months: a $35 million seed led by Sequoia and a $300 million Series A led by Lightspeed, valuing the company at about $4 billion. The startup builds AI tools to design chips, not to manufacture them, targeting customers like Nvidia and other chipmakers. The founders previously worked at Google Brain and helped develop the Alpha Chip, a project that accelerated chip layouts. The investors include Nvidia; the founders say the goal is to automate and speed chip design for both traditional and custom chips. Their Stanford-based partnership underpins a shared, long-running tech arc.

Apple Podcasts adds video capabilities to challenge YouTube, Spotify

February 16, 2026, 3:00 PM EST. Apple Podcasts is rolling out advanced video podcast capabilities to challenge YouTube and Spotify. Eddy Cue calls it a milestone that puts creators in control while letting audiences listen or watch. The update lets users switch between watching and listening, view video in-app in a horizontal full display, and download videos for offline viewing. HLS powers adaptive streaming for smooth playback on Wi-Fi or cellular. Video episodes will feed personalized recommendations and editorial curation, and creators can insert dynamic video ads, including host reads. Apple has supported video podcasting since 2005 via RSS and does not charge hosting fees; impression-based fees will apply to ad networks for HLS ads later this year. Beta arrives in iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4; broader rollout this spring. Spotify's video podcasts are up 90% since Jan 2025; YouTube has over 1 billion MAUs.

Apple sets March 4, 2026 NYC event as 'special Apple Experience' amid product-rumor buzz

February 16, 2026, 2:56 PM EST. Apple has invited press to a March 4, 2026 event in New York City at 9 a.m. ET, branded as a special Apple Experience rather than a standard keynote. Separate press gatherings are planned in Shanghai and London. The company is rumored to unveil or preview new devices, with whispers about updated Macs, iPads, and the iPhone 17e; Apple has not confirmed specifics. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has surfaced several rumored products and features. Apple may also roll out the first beta of iOS 26.4 soon, including Siri enhancements powered by Google Gemini. The event fuels speculation about the hardware roadmap, but officials will confirm only what is announced.

Apple may delay major iPad Pro upgrades for years, leaker says

February 16, 2026, 2:52 PM EST. Apple's iPad Pro may not see a major redesign for years, according to a Weibo leaker known as Instant Digital. The tipster says the device will keep a regular iteration cadence but avoid features like ultra-slim borders seen on top rivals. He notes OLED panel costs have not fallen and the last substantial redesign failed to lift sales. Apple introduced a first major redesign in 2024 and added the M5 chip in October 2025, with only minor connectivity tweaks. Rumors place an M6 chip and vapor chamber cooling toward late 2026 or 2027, but there are no other credible details on the line's future.

Rivian posts 2025 gross profit of $144 million as EV market cools

February 16, 2026, 2:46 PM EST. Rivian Automotive surprised investors with a 2025 gross profit of $144 million, narrowing its losses from 2024's $1.2 billion net deficit. The Irvine, California company also reported deliveries of 42,247 vehicles for 2025 and a production run of 42,284, with guidance to deliver 62,000 to 67,000 this year. Analysts called the results a turning point amid an EV market that has cooled after federal subsidies ended. RJ Scaringe credited gains to stronger software and services, higher average selling prices and cost reductions per vehicle. Amazon's fleet now includes more than 30,000 Rivian delivery vans in the U.S. and parts of Europe under a plan to reach 100,000 by 2030. Tesla remains a competitor, while price pressures persist for EV buyers as credits fade.

NASA selects UC San Diego to lead EDGE satellite mission

February 16, 2026, 2:44 PM EST. NASA has selected UC San Diego glaciologist Helen Fricker to lead the EDGE mission, a satellite program to map the edges of ice sheets and ice packs in Earth's polar regions. EDGE will carry a cutting-edge Lidar imaging system aboard the Earth Dynamics Geodetic Explorer, a new NASA satellite with launch not expected for at least four years. Fricker says EDGE will deliver greater global coverage than prior missions, enabling simultaneous monitoring of land, ice and coastal zones. The project will also study land and vegetation masses to assess the health of remote ecosystems. The announcement underscores collaboration between NASA and UC San Diego in studying environmentally sensitive regions.

Apple rolls out video podcasts in iOS 26.4 beta with HLS and ad-supported format

February 16, 2026, 2:42 PM EST. Apple is rolling out video on its Podcasts app in beta on iOS 26.4, with a wider rollout planned this spring. The feature uses HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) to switch between watching and listening, and allows offline downloads. Apple says the update puts creators in control of their content and monetization, with video ads integrated into shows. Initial partners include Acast, ART19, Omny Studio, SiriusXM, AdsWizz and Simplecast, with more to come. The move comes as Netflix pursues video podcast deals and Spotify ramps up investment in video podcasts. Eddy Cue, Apple's services chief, frames the launch as a milestone in Apple's two-decade podcasting journey, extending a category-leading experience to both audiences and creators.

Apple Podcasts adds video features, adopts HLS streaming to compete with YouTube and Spotify

February 16, 2026, 2:36 PM EST. Apple Podcasts will add video capabilities this spring, letting iPhone, iPad and Vision Pro users watch and listen within the app and on the web. The upgrade supports switching between video and audio, horizontal full display, and offline downloads, with video episodes integrated into existing recommendations and editorial sections. Apple has long supported video formats but used RSS for delivery; the new HLS streaming enables adaptive bandwidth and, for the first time, dynamic insertion of video ads, including host reads. Testing is available in developer beta on iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4 and visionOS 26.4. Eddy Cue says the move gives creators more control over content and monetization. Initial partners include Acast, ART19, Omny Studio and SiriusXM; Apple does not charge hosting providers and will levy an impression-based fee on participating ad networks.

Apple kicks off developer betas for iOS 26.4 and related platforms

February 16, 2026, 2:34 PM EST. Apple has kicked off a fresh wave of developer betas for iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, watchOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4 and macOS Tahoe 26.4, after the previous 26.3 cycle. Apple released three developer builds and release candidates earlier this month; public betas followed on February 11. Build sizes vary by device, with some testers reporting downloads from about 8 GB to 18 GB. Build identifiers include iOS 26.4 (1) 23E5207q (replacing 23D125) and iPadOS 26.4 23E5207q, watchOS 26.4 23T5209m, visionOS 26.4 23O5209m, tvOS 26.34 23L5208m, and macOS Tahoe 26.4 25E5207k. Rumors point to a new Siri, potentially tied to Google Gemini. Apple warns users not to install betas on mission-critical devices; public betas typically follow later.

Apple's iOS 26.4 beta revamps Wallpaper Gallery with categories and preloaded collections

February 16, 2026, 2:28 PM EST. Apple's first iOS 26.4 beta retools the Wallpaper Gallery for speed and organization. The redesign adds top categories and sections such as Featured, Photo Shuffle, and Spatial Scenes, with familiar options that users can add or remove. New entries include sections for Weather, Astronomy, and Emoji, each with a short description and a Get option to load samples. After loading, users can browse the full collection or tap a checkmark to remove a collection from the gallery. The update also ships preloaded collections for iOS 26 and hardware-specific wallpapers that cannot be turned off. The system is described as more fluid and responsive, aligning with the feel of iOS 26.

Beyond NVIDIA: Four AI & Quantum Plays Target Big Platform Upside in 2026

February 16, 2026, 2:18 PM EST. Investors are looking beyond NVIDIA to four AI and quantum plays they see as catalysts for platform-scale upside in 2026. Analysts point to demand for AI accelerators, hybrid quantum-classical workflows, and cloud-based quantum software as the main drivers. The ideas span hardware, software, and services tied to enterprise adoption, with upside coming from partnerships, subscription models, and cross-sell opportunities across ecosystems. Risks include execution delays, regulatory and security concerns, and competition from larger incumbents and nimble startups. While no single name promises certainty, the thesis rests on breadth of applications-from automation and data analytics to cryptography-accelerating demand for integrated AI and quantum solutions that extend beyond traditional processors.

AI scare trade may persist as investors reprice risk across sectors

February 16, 2026, 2:16 PM EST. New York stocks slid across software, real estate and trucking last week as investors worried AI could upend some industries. The shift signals AI-powered rallies may now drag on parts of the market. Jefferies strategist Mohit Kumar called the move a 'shoot first, ask questions later' reaction to disruption. Insurance brokers and real estate services fell after Tuio unveiled a new app built with ChatGPT, prompting UBS to warn the sell-off could be overdone while noting brokers remain essential intermediaries. Altruist rolled out a tax-planning feature for Hazel, stoking concerns about competition in brokerage and wealth management. Marsh, SCHW, LPL, RJF and Cushman & Wakefield led declines as investors weigh AI's potential to reduce office demand and service uses.

AI, Social Media and Democracy: The Bot Threat to Elections

February 16, 2026, 2:08 PM EST. More Americans get news on social media, but experts warn that AI-powered bots and automated accounts shape the online debate. Estimates place automated accounts around 20% of social media activity; other studies suggest bot-generated posts surge on controversial topics. Researchers warn that large-scale campaigns could influence voters and threaten the integrity of upcoming elections. The discussion centers on how AI-generated imagery, bot networks, and misinformation can distort political conversation. Newsrooms, platforms, and policymakers are under pressure to detect automation, curb manipulation, and preserve authentic discourse. Journalists report on the practical risks and the urgency of response, while the public seeks clarity on what counts as credible information in this digital era.

Galloway urges government-led AI regulation; Pentagon reviews Anthropic guardrails contract

February 16, 2026, 2:06 PM EST. Scott Galloway told Dana Bash on Inside Politics that AI ethics should not be outsourced to technology companies. He argued for comprehensive government regulation to set standards for safety, privacy and public welfare. The podcast exchange framed a broader critique of corporate self-regulation as insufficient. The remarks land as the Pentagon confirmed it is reviewing a contract with Anthropic after a clash over the scope of guardrails. The Pentagon review underscores ongoing tensions between defense applications and industry guardrails. Galloway stressed that government involvement is needed to ensure consistent rules, audits and accountability. He did not specify policy details, but called for thoughtful, sensible regulations. The report highlights a debate about who should set limits on rapidly advancing AI technologies.

RAM shortages could push Sony's next PlayStation to 2029; Switch 2 price under review

February 16, 2026, 2:00 PM EST. Sony may delay its next-generation PlayStation to 2028 or 2029 due to AI memory demands, with industry sources cited by Bloomberg. The move follows RAM shortages driven by AI data-center demand squeezing memory-chip supply. Nintendo's Switch 2 price could rise from about $450, though no figure is given. The report would mark a sharp break from Sony's six-to-seven-year cadence-the PS5 launched in 2020, nudging a 2027 release. Both companies say nothing on the record. The episode underscores how AI workloads are reshaping console economics, even as memory makers juggle tighter supplies. Analysts note timing and pricing could shift again if memory availability improves or AI demand moderates.

I put the iPhone through the 10-year challenge: 2016 iPhone 7 Plus vs 2026 iPhone 17 Pro Max camera test

February 16, 2026, 1:58 PM EST. During a 10-year challenge, a photo walk compared the 2016 iPhone 7 Plus with the 2026 iPhone 17 Pro Max. The test reinforces how Apple reshaped phone photography: the 7 Plus introduced a dual-camera system with a 12MP main lens and a 2x telephoto, enabling Portrait mode before a single-camera iPhone could. The 17 Pro Max adds a 48MP main sensor, a 4x telephoto and an ultrawide, delivering brighter colors, more detail and wider framing. In practice, the newer model's versatility and smarter computational photography produce a noticeably more complete shooting experience, even when using default modes. The takeaway: hardware gains plus system-wide improvements-from better depth to improved dynamic range-have shifted everyday smartphone photography more than sheer megapixels.

Apple releases iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 for developers; features uncertain

February 16, 2026, 1:52 PM EST. Apple has released iPadOS 26.4 beta 1 for developers, kicking off the next beta cycle after last week's 26.3 update. A public beta is expected soon. The feature set remains unclear, with Apple's plan for Siri upgrades in 26.4 still uncertain. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has said some Siri improvements may move to 26.5 or 27, though a few tweaks could appear in this first beta. Rumors also include nine new emoji awaiting launch and potential RCS-related messaging enhancements. As with most betas, additional changes are likely in future builds. Apple will likely broaden the beta with tweaks before a broader release. Readers are invited to share any new discoveries in the comments.

Apple expands video podcasts with HLS, ads and partners

February 16, 2026, 1:50 PM EST. Apple will roll out an integrated video podcasting experience in Apple Podcasts this spring, moving closer to rivals that have leaned into video, including YouTube, Spotify and Netflix. The update lets users switch seamlessly between watching and listening from the same feed, supports picture-in-picture, and allows offline downloads of video episodes. Apple says the update uses HLS to enable adaptive video playback and introduces dynamic video ad insertion. Creators will not be charged to distribute content; however, participating ad networks will pay an impression-based fee to deliver video ads. Launch partners include Acast, ART19, Omny Studio and SiriusXM. The shift follows rising video podcasting, with about 37% of people over 12 watching video podcasts monthly, Edison Research finds.

Presidents Day deals: Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 $180 off, Galaxy up to $400 off, more

February 16, 2026, 1:44 PM EST. Presidents Day deals are live across Samsung, Amazon and partners. Highlights include up to $400 off the Galaxy Z Fold/Flip 7, tablets from $210, and Bespoke appliances marked down by as much as $1,500. Lenovo's Legion Tab Gen 3 is back at a low of $370.49 shipped with promo code EXTRAFIVE. The tablet originally released around $500-$550. Audio and accessories show value too: Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 from $142 and Anker charging gear, up to 55% off. Samsung is also teasing Galaxy S26 pre-order discounts up to $900 with free credit. Prices and availability vary by model and color. Consumers should act quickly; price drops may end without notice. This article aggregates current promotions through Presidents Day weekend.

Tesla radar revival: FCC filings reveal high-resolution millimeter-wave radar for FSD

February 16, 2026, 1:42 PM EST. Tesla quietly pursued high-resolution millimeter-wave radar, disclosed in FCC filings from June 2022. The documents show a self-designed radar using Texas Instruments' IWR6843AOP chip, higher power than the Continental ARS-4B, with four transmit and three receive antennas and chirp modulation. It claims detection within a six-foot range with medical-grade precision. Earlier FCC approvals (2020-2021) covered cabin-based radar for driver monitoring and anti-theft. The filings imply dormant radar hardware could be activated via over-the-air updates. Tesla has long argued for vision-only autonomy; critics argue radar aids under poor weather. Radar's advantage in rain, snow, fog contrasts with rivals deploying multi-modal sensor suites. The 60-64 GHz band offers higher resolution, enabling potential 4D imaging (distance, speed, elevation). With confidentiality ending in December 2022, software updates could unlock sensor capabilities in coming weeks.

Tesla Emerges as Wall Street's Controversial AI Stock Pick for 2026

February 16, 2026, 1:38 PM EST. Analysts are warming to Tesla as an AI stock, citing its push into AVs, robotaxi ambitions, and the potential of humanoid robotics. Wolfe Research's Emmanuel Rosner called 2026 a catalyst-rich year, with robotaxi revenue possibly reaching $250 billion by 2035; roughly 17 analysts currently rate the stock a buy. The bull case is supported by a better gross margin-20.1% in Q4-and a cash stockpile of about $44 billion to fund capex for AVs and Optimus robots. Market-size bets loom large: AVs could be worth $1.4 trillion by 2040, humanoid robotics about $5 trillion by 2050. But near-term results worry: 2025 revenue fell 3%, earnings tumbled 47% to $1.08 a share, and vehicle revenue slid 10% to $65.5B, while capex could rise to $20B in 2026.

Grok and nudification apps spark global backlash, centering Silicon Valley

February 16, 2026, 1:34 PM EST. Grok, an AI image-editing feature on Elon Musk's X and a standalone app, generated millions of sexually explicit images after launch. Researchers say the tool stripped real women and thousands of apparent children, prompting California Attorney General Rob Bonta to open an investigation into legality. Separately, the Tech Transparency Project found 55 apps in Google Play and 47 in Apple's App Store capable of nudification (AI-driven alteration to make subjects appear nude) of real people without consent. The controversy adds to scrutiny of AI-generated content and follows new federal and state proposals, like the Take It Down Act of 2025, aimed at removing non-consensual deepfake imagery. Authorities warn the material can harass online users, while companies face regulatory and reputational pressure.

Four ways to boost performance on a budget Android tablet

February 16, 2026, 1:28 PM EST. Budget Android tablets can be capable home devices, but lag can frustrate owners. The author tests tweaks on a Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ and finds performance gains enough to extend usefulness. The piece outlines four tips; two are described here. First, run a minimal launcher such as Niagara or KISS to smooth the interface. Second, use Developer Options to disable animations and limit background processes, reducing overhead. The result: crisper app launches, fewer hiccups, and better overall responsiveness. The tone is practical, with concrete steps rather than theory, and it underscores that even affordable hardware can feel faster with targeted tweaks.

Google developing dedicated Now Playing app for Pixel phones

February 16, 2026, 1:24 PM EST. Google appears to be building a standalone Now Playing app for Pixel phones. Hidden strings in Android System Intelligence Version B.21, uncovered by 9to5Google, point to a new app with package name com.google.android.apps.pixel.nowplaying on the Google Play Store. The move would give Now Playing its own home, enabling song history to be saved and potentially transferred between compatible devices. The app would complement Pixel features like the built-in music recognition and the wider Pixel ecosystem. There is no official rollout date; observers see potential timing around the March Pixel Drop. Google has not commented. The development underscores Pixel's broader strategy to house related tools, such as Recorder, under dedicated apps.

Linux Nobara distro runs Windows games well, author finds on gaming PC

February 16, 2026, 1:22 PM EST. An avid gamer tests Nobara, a Linux distro marketed for gaming, on a PC that runs Windows. After replacing Windows 11 or dual-booting, the author notes Nobara ships with WINE, OBS and other essentials pre-installed, cutting setup time. They compare it to SteamOS on a ROG Ally X and report smoother Windows-game performance in practice, not just theory. Nobara's emphasis on gaming and content creation means fewer extra installs and tweaks, delivering out-of-the-box compatibility. The writer concedes early Linux myth-busting: complexity fades when hardware and games work out of the box. While not a blanket replacement for Windows, the experiment suggests Linux gaming readiness is improving, with Nobara and similar distros shrinking the gap for those willing to switch.

Low-cost MacBook could arrive in yellow, green, blue and pink, Bloomberg reports

February 16, 2026, 1:16 PM EST. Apple is testing a far more playful color palette for a forthcoming low-cost MacBook, new details from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman show. The palette reportedly includes light yellow, light green, blue and pink alongside silver and dark gray, though not all colors are certain to ship. If released, the budget MacBook would be the most colorful since the late-1990s iBook G3 lineup, Gurman notes. The device is expected to retail well under $1,000 and use an iPhone chip-potentially the A18 Pro-rather than an M-series processor, with a sub-13-inch display and an aluminum chassis built with a new, faster manufacturing process to cut costs. Apple is aiming at students and enterprises to compete with Chromebooks, with a launch event possible as early as March, per Gurman and earlier Ming-Chi Kuo reports.

Galaxy Watch 8 with LTE drops to $229 at Woot, $200 off 44mm model

February 16, 2026, 1:12 PM EST. Amazon-owned Woot kicks off a Galaxy Watch 8 sale. The 44mm variant with built-in 4G LTE is listed at $229.99, down from $429.99-a $200 cut (about 47%). The watch sports a 1.47-inch Super AMOLED display and Wear OS with One UI 8, plus health features such as ECG, heart rate monitoring, sleep coaching and fall detection. A separate listing shows the 40mm model with $20 off (roughly 6%). The promotions appear aimed at larger wrists and users who want to make or receive voice calls without a phone nearby. The deal is live on Woot's storefront.

Boring Company bid outlines twin-tunnel Loop for Universal Orlando transport

February 16, 2026, 1:02 PM EST. New bid documents outline how The Boring Company plans to connect Universal Orlando Resort's north campus to Universal Epic Universe with a twin-tunnel Loop. The Shingle Creek Transit & Utility Community Development District ranked Boring Company top bidder and moved to contract negotiations on Feb. 11, per Attraction Insight. The proposal describes a two-tunnel, bidirectional layout and says permitting and construction could take about 18 months after approvals. Staffing includes eight internal specialists and six subcontractors for fire safety, soil treatment, and concrete work. The project would mirror the Las Vegas Loop, using Tesla vehicles for on-demand transport, with underground or above-ground stations and future Robovan integration. Geotechnical concerns loom over Florida's high water table and limestone geology; the district plans to hire a local firm to assess soil conditions.

Tesla ends one-time FSD purchases, shifts to subscription model

February 16, 2026, 12:58 PM EST. Tesla said in a notice on its website that FSD will no longer be sold as a one-time license and that new buyers must pay via a monthly subscription. The change applies to future purchases, while current owners retain existing terms for their licenses. The shift toward recurring revenue mirrors a broader tech industry trend. Analysts say the move could affect demand for FSD-equipped cars and consumer budgeting. Tesla argues subscriptions provide ongoing software updates and support.

UK tightens online safety rules to regulate AI chatbots and protect children

February 16, 2026, 12:54 PM EST. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced tighter online safety rules that will bring AI chatbots under the Online Safety Act, requiring them to meet illegal-content duties or face fines or blocking. The move follows Ofcom scrutiny of X's Grok for sexually explicit images and a broader push to set minimum age limits, curb features like infinite scrolling, and restrict children's use of AI tools and VPNs. The plan also includes data retention rules after a child's death and signals a tougher stance on platforms that fail to protect minors. Legal experts say the changes reflect lawmakers' shift toward regulating technology itself, rather than just its use cases.

Xiaomi 17 series lands in Europe Feb. 28, but rear-display Pro models skip

February 16, 2026, 12:52 PM EST. Dealabs reports Xiaomi will unveil the Xiaomi 17 series in Europe on February 28, ahead of MWC 2026 in Barcelona. The standard Xiaomi 17 will start at €999 for 12GB/256GB, and the Xiaomi 17 Ultra at €1,499 for 16GB/512GB. Pro models with rear-facing displays will not reach Europe at launch, mirroring the earlier Xiaomi 15 Pro pattern. The 17 lineup arrives in Black, Venture Green, Ice Blue and Alpine Pink; the 17 Ultra comes in Black, White and Starlit Green. The devices were introduced in September 2025, powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. The rear-display feature remains exclusive to non-European variants for now.

Artemis II on track for launch next month after hydrogen test review

February 16, 2026, 12:50 PM EST. NASA says Artemis II remains on track for a launch next month from Florida's Space Coast. The Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft sit on the pad awaiting a crewed lunar flyby. Engineers are reviewing data from a critical test last week after a report of reduced hydrogen flow, which persisted even after a seal was replaced. Officials say they are addressing the issue and targeting the earliest possible launch window. Channel 9 Eyewitness News will monitor developments and provide updates as the timeline firms up.

EU Parliament blocks built-in AI features amid cyber and privacy fears

February 16, 2026, 12:34 PM EST. EU lawmakers moved to disable built-in AI features on staff devices as a broader push to strengthen data security amid concerns about foreign technology. The measure follows years of tightening rules and a 2023 ban on TikTok on Parliament devices. POLITICO reported that lawmakers had urged Parliament to replace Microsoft software with a European alternative. The latest guidance targets in-device features such as writing and summarizing assistants, enhanced virtual assistants and page summaries on tablets and smartphones, while core apps like email and calendars remain unaffected. The Parliament press service says it monitors cybersecurity threats and will deploy measures as needed but declined to comment on specifics. Lawmakers were told to apply similar precautions on private devices and to avoid exposing work data to AI that scans or analyzes content, and to exercise caution with third-party AI apps.

Apple reportedly to equip iPhone 18 Pro models with in-house C2 modem

February 16, 2026, 12:32 PM EST. Apple is reportedly equipping the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max with a next-generation in-house C2 modem, reducing reliance on Qualcomm 5G chips. The shift aims to tighten hardware-software integration and could lift battery life, privacy and network performance. The C2 modem would be tightly coordinated with the processor to improve responsiveness in crowded or low-signal environments. It is also expected to support Apple's Limit Precise Location feature, which blurs location accuracy for carriers without degrading signal. Apple did not comment. If accurate, the move underscores Apple's push to own more of the device stack and extend efficiency through custom silicon and modems.

YouTube blocks comments and descriptions for ad-block users, reports indicate

February 16, 2026, 12:30 PM EST. YouTube is limiting comments and video descriptions for certain users, a pull-back tied to ad blockers. Reports on Reddit and X, with PiunikaWeb cited, describe widespread notices stating "Comments are turned off" across many videos. The issue also appears to affect some YouTube Premium users. The pattern suggests YouTube is attempting to deter users from skipping ads. Some browsers with built-in blockers, such as Brave, have similar problems. The company has not publicly clarified the cause. In tests by Android Authority, not all ad-block users are affected. Observers warn that the situation could evolve. Some readers report turning off ad blockers or using a VPN to route traffic through Vietnam in protest, though that approach is not endorsed.

iPhone 15 at $399 in Best Buy sale beats anticipated iPhone 17e price

February 16, 2026, 12:28 PM EST. The iPhone 15 is on sale for $399 at Best Buy Presidents' Day Sale, tied to AT&T or Verizon; an unlocked price is $499. The price undercuts the rumored iPhone 17e, listed around $599. In Tom's Guide's review, the iPhone 15 was called the best value among iPhones. It sports a 48MP main camera and a new 2x optical zoom, with reliable battery life around 11 hours 5 minutes in tests. It supports 20W wired charging via USB-C and MagSafe. It lacks Apple Intelligence due to RAM constraints, but remains compatible with iMessage, FaceTime, and iOS. For buyers who don't need the latest model, the $399 price is a strong incentive.

Snapdragon Galaxy S26 Ultra outpaces Exynos S26 in single-core benchmarks

February 16, 2026, 12:26 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy in every region, while the S26 and S26+ rely on the Exynos 2600 in several markets. The Prime cores on the Snapdragon run at 4.74GHz, vs the Exynos 2600's 3.80GHz, delivering a ~16% edge in single-core Geekbench 6.6.0. Multi-core scores are nearly the same, within about 2%. The Exynos 2600 is deca-core (1+3+6) while the Snapdragon variant uses eight cores (2+6). All three models show 12GB RAM as the base; the S26 Ultra may offer 16GB with a 1TB variant, though tested units didn't show it. Data from TechManiacs, via a Greek source, previews what to expect.

UK tightens online safety rules for AI chatbots after Grok backlash

February 16, 2026, 12:24 PM EST. London – The UK government proposes to amend the Crime and Policing Bill to force AI chatbot providers to follow duties under the Online Safety Act, aiming to curb illegal content and protect children. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the moves close loopholes and speed protections for online wellbeing. The plan follows fallout from Grok, which generated sexualized images and prompted an Ofcom investigation into X. The government will seek new powers to fast-track measures, including a possible minimum age of 16 for social media, limits on infinite scrolling, tighter safeguards around nude-image sharing, and tighter access controls to AI chatbots and VPNs. The policy signals global legislative pressure to keep pace with rapid AI advances.

SpaceX launches 53 Starlink satellites in back-to-back missions from California and Florida

February 16, 2026, 12:22 PM EST. SpaceX added 53 Starlink satellites in two back-to-back launches. A Falcon 9 lifted 24 satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base's SLC-4E on Feb. 14, while a separate Falcon 9 carried 29 satellites from Cape Canaveral's SLC-40 on Feb. 16. SpaceX confirmed successful deploys about an hour after liftoffs. First stages landed on drone ships in the Pacific and Atlantic – Boosters 1081 and 1090, respectively – with 1081 in its 22nd flight and 1090 in its 10th reuse. The Starlink network now exceeds 9,600 active units and enables services such as in-flight Wi-Fi. Monday's launch was SpaceX's 19th Falcon 9 flight this year and the 602nd in history.

Oz touts AI avatars to expand rural care as $1 trillion Medicaid cuts loom

February 16, 2026, 12:20 PM EST. Dr. Mehmet Oz promotes a $50 billion plan to use AI avatars to 'multiply doctors' reach fivefold' in rural areas, through Robotic diagnostics, AI-guided ultrasounds, and drone-delivered medications. The push comes as more than 190 rural hospitals have closed since 2005 (about 10% of the total, per KFF). It coincides with the Trump-era proposal of $1 trillion Medicaid cuts over the next decade via the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, drawing criticism and concern over access and cost. Critics warn AI cannot read nonverbal cues or replace human relationships, while supporters say automation could cut paperwork (30-40% of clinician time) and improve triage. CMS says the aim is to extend, not replace, clinicians, but many see the messaging as discordant with rural realities.

Moto Razr Ultra 2025 hits record low price at Amazon for Presidents' Day deal

February 16, 2026, 12:18 PM EST. Motorola's Razr Ultra 2025 dips to a record low price of $799 on Amazon for Presidents' Day, a $500 cut that makes the foldable more approachable. The deal covers all four Pantone colors-Scarab green, Mountain Trail brown, Rio Red and Cabaret pink-and stock remains 16GB RAM with 512GB storage. Buying direct nets a free 1TB upgrade and Moto Buds Plus earbuds. Powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and 16GB RAM, it delivers flagship-like performance. The device features a 7-inch inner pOLED display at 165Hz, plus a 4-inch outer screen with the same refresh rate and strong app support on the cover. Tom's Guide notes its battery life-a 4700 mAh cell, with 68W wired or 30W wireless charging-outpacing rivals. Caveats: only 3 years of software updates, and mixed camera results in low light.

Samsung markets Galaxy S26 as an AI phone, signaling a risky shift toward agentic AI

February 16, 2026, 12:16 PM EST. Samsung frames Galaxy Unpacked 2026 around AI. Teasers show the word smart morphing into AI phone, signaling a move from smartphone to AI phone ahead of February 25. In January, Samsung's MX unit pledged to grow flagship sales and push an agentic AI experience with Galaxy S26. Agentic AI implies autonomous, goal directed actions on a user's behalf. Early demos include hotel bookings; some features like Now Bar have improved, though app support remains uneven. The risk lies in execution: the broader promise depends on turning AI into a capable, user acting agent, not a novelty. Samsung's gamble will test whether Galaxy S26 can redefine its smartphone strategy or overpromise on AI capabilities.

Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 deal near 50% off for Presidents' Day

February 16, 2026, 12:14 PM EST. Massive deals sweep the holiday weekend. The Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 smartwatch is discounted in the Presidents' Day promos, delivering near-50% off and saving more than $450. The watch is pitched as a tool to manage your well-being through health and fitness tracking. The promotion sits in the Deals section, within Wearables and Smartwatches. This is part of a broader push to capture holiday shoppers seeking premium wearables.

AI;DR gains online traction as critique of AI content grows

February 16, 2026, 12:10 PM EST. Online chatter is coining AI;DR, shorthand for "AI, didn't read," to flag AI-generated content as wasteful or lower quality. The term riffs on the familiar TL;DR label and is gaining attention after a Threads post. Users on Bluesky urged embrace of the phrase. It follows a broader wave of backlash against AI, which even shaped Merriam-Webster's 2025 word of the year: slop. A programmer nicknamed Sid argued that outsourcing writing to a language model undermines thinking. Supporters say AI;DR helps people avoid time-wasting "slop," while critics worry it normalizes bullying and chill the development of novel ideas. The trend illustrates mounting friction between automation and human judgment.

Presidents' Day Garmin smartwatch deals: Save up to $476 on Epix Pro 2 Gen 2 and Instinct 2X Solar

February 16, 2026, 12:06 PM EST. Presidents' Day deals cut prices on Garmin smartwatches. The Epix Pro 2 Gen 2 is on sale for $523.60 at Amazon, a 48% discount and the lowest price on record. The Instinct 2X Solar follows at $296.10, about 34% off. Prices reflect data as of Feb. 16, 2026, and can change at any time. The report cites Mashable, noting affiliate links; buyers should verify current pricing before purchase.

Amazon trims 40% off Garmin Instinct 2X Solar for Presidents Day

February 16, 2026, 12:02 PM EST. Amazon is offering a Presidents Day deal on the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar smartwatch, with a $200 discount bringing the price to $300. The discount marks a record-low for the model, which normally sells for $500. The rugged GPS watch features a Power Glass solar charging lens, multi-band GPS, a three-axis compass and barometric altimeter, and built-in sensors for heart rate, sleep, and respiration tracking. It also includes an LED flashlight with adjustable brightness for night workouts. The watch supports tracking a wide range of activities from running and cycling to swimming and strength training. The deal is time-limited as Presidents Day promotions roll out across Amazon.

Artemis 2 faces new delay after unannounced SLS ground support issue

February 16, 2026, 11:58 AM EST. An unannounced test at Kennedy Space Center partially fueled NASA's 322-foot Space Launch System with liquid hydrogen to check repairs after a February hydrogen leak. Operators then found a new issue with ground support equipment that could delay Artemis 2, the crewed lunar mission. Artemis 2 was shifted from February to March at the earliest, but NASA has not set an official date. The delay follows a February wet dress rehearsal that exposed a hydrogen leak in the SLS core stage and led to seal replacements. NASA says a second wet dress rehearsal and a flight readiness review are required before a launch date is declared. Ground teams will continue diagnostics on the new issue, keeping Artemis 2 on track for a future crewed lunar flight.

Pentagon weighs cutting ties with Anthropic over AI safeguards, Axios reports

February 16, 2026, 11:56 AM EST. The Pentagon is weighing ending its relationship with Anthropic after the startup insisted on limits on how the U.S. military may use its AI model, Claude. Axios, citing an administration official, reported the Pentagon is pressuring four AI firms-Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, and xAI-to allow use for 'all lawful purposes,' including in weapons development, intelligence gathering and battlefield operations. Anthropic says it has not discussed specific operations with the Pentagon; conversations have centered on policy questions such as hard limits around autonomous weapons and mass domestic surveillance, not current deployments. The Pentagon did not immediately comment. Reuters reported the agency wants top AI tools on classified networks with fewer restrictions. The Wall Street Journal noted Claude has been used in operations linked to Maduro via Palantir.

Apple AirPods range discounted in Presidents' Day sale

February 16, 2026, 11:54 AM EST. Apple's AirPods, launched in 2016, have become ubiquitous. In a Presidents' Day sale, Amazon discounts the four current models by up to 22%. The spotlight falls on the AirPods 4, which feature an open-ear design, an H2 chip for improved bass and crystal-clear calls via Voice Isolation, and a USB-C case with up to 30 hours of total battery life. They also offer Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. Across the range, newer models pair richer features with longer battery life, but price has never been cheap. The sale is time-limited, so buyers should act quickly to lock in the discounts.

Apple to hold product launch in New York on March 4

February 16, 2026, 11:48 AM EST. Apple is set to stage a product launch in New York on March 4. Officials have offered few details, and the company has not disclosed the agenda or product lines. Industry watchers expect a hardware reveal or software/service updates in line with Apple's usual cadence. Spokespeople did not respond to requests for comment by press time.

M5 iPad Pro discounted on Amazon, beating Apple Store pricing

February 16, 2026, 11:44 AM EST. Amazon is offering discounts on the Apple iPad Pro (M5) across storage options, with $100 off on 256GB and 512GB models, and $150 off on 1TB and 2TB configurations. Current prices: 256GB $899, 512GB $1,099, 1TB $1,449, 2TB $1,849. Cellular variants add $200 to these prices; colors black or silver. Models use the M5 chip, iPadOS 26, and 16GB RAM. Display is 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR; nano-texture glass option for 1TB/2TB reduces glare. Apple Pencil support with gesture controls and pressure/angle sensing. Cameras include 12MP rear with 4K ProRes, front 12MP with Center Stage. The deal positions Amazon as a price leader vs Apple Store for this model.

Bank of America's Moynihan says AI disruption won't wipe out jobs, cites 1969-2019 computer myth

February 16, 2026, 11:14 AM EST. Bank of America chief Brian Moynihan downplays an AI jobs bloodbath, arguing history shows technology reshapes work but doesn't erase employment. Speaking on the This is Working podcast, he cites the 1969-2019 era as a precedent: the U.S. workforce roughly doubled even as computers expanded across firms. He notes the old claim that computers would remove all managers proved wrong; BofA today has about 20,000 managers. The view tracks with other Wall Street voices, including JPMorgan's Jamie Dimon, who calls for retraining and policy dialogue. The debate sits alongside Pew surveys showing many workers fear AI will shrink opportunities. The takeaway: disruptive, yes, but history suggests managed transitions, new roles, and growth remain possible.

Tesla rolls out Grok AI assistant to UK and Europe in latest OTA update

February 16, 2026, 11:12 AM EST. Tesla has begun rolling out its Grok AI assistant across Europe, led by the UK, via software 2026.2.6 delivered over the air. Grok, built by xAI, answers questions across subjects from physics to history and is integrated into Tesla's cockpit. It accepts spoken prompts via steering wheel controls or the touchscreen, can start navigation, adjust routes on the move and search for nearby points of interest in natural language. It may reference the vehicle's owner manual and interpret dashboard alerts. Grok offers modes such as Assistant, Language Tutor, Storyteller, Meditation, Doc and Conspiracy, plus child modes and adult modes. AI personas include Ara, Eve, Leo, Rex and Sal. Availability spans Model S, 3, X and Y, requiring Premium Connectivity or Wi-Fi. Tesla says conversations are anonymous and updates are free.

Verizon tightens unlock rules after FCC waiver; early payoff may delay

February 16, 2026, 11:04 AM EST. After an FCC waiver, Verizon is no longer required to unlock phones 60 days after activation. The carrier now says a postpaid device stays locked until it is paid in full, preventing transitions to another network while a balance remains. Unlock timing depends on how payment is made. If customers settle the balance using cash, a credit card with an EMV chip, or contactless payment at a Verizon store, the device unlocks automatically. Payments made online, via the My Verizon app, at a Verizon Authorized Retailer, or by phone trigger a 35-day delay. Verizon cites fraud prevention for non-secure methods like gift cards or paper checks. The policy appears to have shifted in January but was reflected on February 11, with questions about the effective date and pre-change transactions, according to Ars Technica.

Apple to host a 'special experience' on March 4 with invites circulating in NY, London and Shanghai

February 16, 2026, 11:00 AM EST. Notable Apple fans and publications have begun receiving invites to a special Apple experience in New York, London and Shanghai. The event is set for 9 a.m. ET on March 4, per 9to5Mac. The cryptic invites, featuring the Apple logo with a yellow-green-blue gradient, have sparked speculation about potential new products or colors. Reddit chatter fixates on whether the gradient hints at new MacBook hues. Apple has not disclosed details beyond the time and locations; Mashable notes the cryptic messaging is typical of Apple marketing.

DJI Flip with RC 2 on sale for $539, 16% off at Amazon

February 16, 2026, 10:58 AM EST. Amazon prices the DJI Flip drone with RC 2 at $539, down from $639. The 16% discount marks the lowest price seen on Amazon to date. The foldable drone features palm takeoff, aligning with DJI's compact design. Deal pricing and availability can change after publication.

Artemis 2 launch delayed to March after hydrogen leak and ground equipment issue

February 16, 2026, 10:56 AM EST. NASA has pushed Artemis 2 to March after a wet dress rehearsal exposed a hydrogen leak in the Space Launch System rocket. Ground teams partially fueled the 322-foot rocket at Kennedy Space Center to test recent repairs, but operators also identified a fault in ground-support equipment that could complicate preparations. The mission, scheduled to carry three Americans and one Canadian on a 10-day lunar orbit, does not yet have an official launch date. The earliest target under current plans remains March 6, but NASA says a formal date will come only after another wet dress rehearsal and a flight readiness review. The rocket has stayed vertical on the pad since mid-January, and crews are continuing seal inspections and leak analyses to avert a rollback or further delays.

Most readers oppose seven-inch smartphone displays, poll finds

February 16, 2026, 10:50 AM EST. News item summarizing a Weibo post by Digital Chat Station about phones with displays larger than seven-inch displays. The linked poll has 4,828 votes, with about 47% saying such size would be hard to handle. The author argues that seven-inch screens would kill one-handed usability, hurt pocketability, and push up costs due to larger panels. Larger displays could blur the line between phones and tablets, complicating model naming like Samsung's Plus variants. The piece cites personal experience with a 6.3-inch Pixel and notes the broader market trend toward bigger screens, while acknowledging that brands may weigh usability against demand in future designs. The tone remains cautious about the feasibility and consumer appetite for ultra-large displays.

Foldable skeptic turned believer after two months with the Galaxy Z Fold 7

February 16, 2026, 10:46 AM EST. After years of interest, Mishaal Rahman says the Galaxy Z Fold 7 changed his mind about foldables. He owned a Fold 4 that was heavy-15.8mm thick, 263g-and felt impractical for daily use. The Fold 7 trims thickness to 8.9mm and weighs 215g, about 3g lighter than a Galaxy S25 Ultra. The outer display grows to 6.5 inches, while the inner screen remains large and the aspect ratio stays taller and narrower than a standard phone. Battery life also improves: a 4,400mAh cell that lasts past midnight with mixed Wi-Fi/5G use and multi-app multitasking. The device keeps the hinge and two screens but feels more pocketable and usable as a daily phone. A reader poll shows 84% would use a foldable as a daily phone (98 votes).

Apple Watch Series 11 on Presidents' Day sale for $299, plus Apple accessory deals

February 16, 2026, 10:36 AM EST. Apple's Presidents' Day sale features the Apple Watch Series 11 at $299, a $100 cut and the lowest price yet. The watch, named our pick for best smartwatch, offers more than 24 hours of battery life, a slim, comfortable design and new health metrics such as hypertension alerts and a Sleep Score. The discount applies to the 42mm GPS model in four colorways with a small/medium band. Other Presidents' Day deals span AirPods, AirTags (first-gen), the iPhone battery pack and crossbody straps for iPhone cases. Third-party accessories are plentiful, but savings on Apple's own gear stand out during sales events. Follow deals coverage for updates.

Samsung updates LockStar with more AOD controls and unlock customization on One UI 8 and 8.5

February 16, 2026, 10:32 AM EST. Samsung has released a fresh LockStar update-part of the Good Lock suite-that widens lock-screen customization for One UI 8 and One UI 8.5. The upgrade, version 8.5.00.10, adds a new "Swirl" unlock animation and increases the total options to 12, while improving status-bar visibility during animations. It also extends manual brightness control to full-screen AOD (Always On Display) on One UI 8.5. For One UI 8 users, the update boosts AOD brightness for "Add text" items and adds a manual brightness option for non-full-screen AOD devices. Samsung notes the rollout is gradual; users can check Galaxy Store or the Good Lock app for updates. The Good Lock family covers home screen, edge panels, wallpapers and other UI tweaks, receiving ongoing updates.

Colorado lawmakers, advocates host AI town hall to discuss regulation and privacy

February 16, 2026, 10:28 AM EST. At a coffee-shop town hall in Aurora, residents debated the push to regulate AI and safeguard privacy. Former AI marketer Juan Sebastián Pinto urged stronger public education as technologies accelerate beyond public knowledge. Colorado state Rep. Brianna Titone described bills targeting the Fourth Amendment protections for data, including limits on buying data from data brokers, and tighter rules for Flock cameras to aid crime solving. Organizers frame the event as nonpartisan, aiming to prevent misuse while encouraging responsible adoption. They say continued conversations could help Colorado become a leader in how to adapt to these technologies, emphasizing safeguards, transparency, and collaboration with industry.

Tesla tells Congress no one has taken control of its cars, despite past hacks

February 16, 2026, 10:26 AM EST. Tesla Vice President of Vehicle Engineering Lars Moravy told the Senate Commerce Committee that no one has ever taken control of a Tesla. The claim followed questions about federal cybersecurity standards for autonomous and connected cars. Critics note that the statement omits well-documented breaches. In 2017, security researcher Jason Hughes (WK057) accessed Tesla's Mothership server via a VIN and remotely commanded a nearby car's Summon feature, illustrating remote control risk. In 2016, Keen Security Lab demonstrated a remote attack on a Model S that reached the CAN bus, affecting braking and steering. Tesla patched the flaws after disclosure, but the incidents show intrusions occurred outside lab environments. The testimony highlights the tension between optimistic security rhetoric and historical breach evidence.

Sony weighs PS6 delay to 2028-29 as AI-chip costs bite; Switch 2 price hike eyed for 2026

February 16, 2026, 10:22 AM EST. A Bloomberg report cites sources familiar with Sony's thinking that the PlayStation 6 could debut in 2028 or 2029, a delay linked to AI-driven pressure on components and surging costs for RAM and SSD supplies. The chip crunch is cited as squeezing hardware makers and prompting talks of a later launch than the 2027 window. Separately, the same outlet reports Nintendo is considering a price rise for the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026, despite earlier signals from President Shuntaro Furukawa that prices would stay stable unless external factors shift. The piece also mentions a best-case 2027 launch window for the next Xbox, though higher costs like the Magnus APU could threaten affordability. The trend underscores a tougher environment for next-gen consoles.

Boring Company plans twin-tunnel Loop for Universal Orlando, bid documents reveal

February 16, 2026, 10:20 AM EST. New bid documents show how The Boring Company plans to connect Universal Orlando's north campus to Epic Universe with a twin-tunnel Loop system. The Shingle Creek Transit & Utility Community Development District voted Feb. 11 to begin negotiations after ranking the company top bidder, according to documents obtained by Attraction Insight. The proposal envisions a pair of tunnels in opposite directions, with permitting and design taking about 18 months after approvals and a plan to deploy multiple tunnel boring machines plus temporary support infrastructure. Eight internal specialists and six subcontractors would handle tunneling, fire protection, soil treatment and concrete work. Stations could be underground or above ground, with potential Robovan integration. Officials cite Florida's high water table and limestone as challenges; they will hire an Orlando-based geotechnical firm to assess conditions, the outlet notes.

Tesla Robotaxi eight months in: 42 cars in Austin, 19% availability, promises unmet

February 16, 2026, 10:18 AM EST. Eight months after launch, Tesla's Robotaxi in Austin shows a gap between Musk's promises and reality. The fleet is about 42 vehicles, with Robotaxi Tracker data showing availability 19% and a crash rate roughly nine times higher than human drivers. Musk promised 500 cars in Austin, coverage for half the US, fully unsupervised rides, and expansion to 8-10 cities by 2025; none materialized. The service remains a limited demo with only a few cars online at a time. Waymo operates 100+ driverless vehicles in Austin via Uber, while Tesla's ride volume is rarely disclosed. In Q4 2025, Musk backed away from unsupervised claims and trimmed targets, leaving the project far from a commercial rollout.

Insta360 Luna Pocket Camera Teaser Leaks: Dual-Lens, 4K 240fps Promise

February 16, 2026, 10:14 AM EST. Insta360 unveiled the Luna pocket camera on February 11, 2026. A teaser video has leaked, showing strong background blur and depth in portraits, with emphasis on output over hardware. The device adopts a modular design: a detachable gimbal unit that can operate independently. Specifications from trusted sources include a dual-lens system with 3x optical zoom, AI-powered processing with a main SoC and a secondary ISP for low-light work, and 4K up to 240fps with 10-bit color. It features a 3-axis gimbal, ~180-minute battery, USB-C, a rotating screen, and ND filters plus configurable color modules. Rumors of a DJI Osmo Pocket 4 persist, but DJI remains silent.

Western Digital says 2026 hard-drive capacity sold out amid AI demand

February 16, 2026, 10:10 AM EST. Western Digital says it has sold out its 2026 hard-drive production, less than two months into the year, as AI firms snap up storage capacity. CEO Irving Tan told analysts on the quarterly earnings call that the company is pretty much sold out for calendar 2026. Most capacity has been allocated to its top seven customers, with three already having deals for 2027 and 2028. The shift comes as enterprise demand rises and consumer sales shrink; the company says the consumer market now accounts for about 5% of revenue. Analysts expect higher prices for storage devices as supply remains constrained.

Google plans video apps for Android Auto; beta flag hints at rollout

February 16, 2026, 10:08 AM EST. Google signaled plans to bring video apps to Android Auto during I/O 2025, allowing users to watch clips while the car is parked. The company described a feature for EV owners to pass charging breaks more easily. Since the announcement, progress remains unresolved-video playback is not live in the public build. A new flag in Android Auto v16.3.160744, named CradleFeature__allow_video_apps, points toward upcoming support. Tech site APK teardowns note the signal's potential but warn it may never reach a public release. The finding suggests Google continues work on the feature, with a public rollout likely once code and safety checks align.

Sony weighs PS6 launch delay to 2028 or 2029, Bloomberg report says

February 16, 2026, 10:06 AM EST. Sony is weighing a late debut for the PS6, possibly pushing its launch to 2028 or 2029, Bloomberg reports citing people familiar with the company's thinking. The report ties the potential delay to AI-driven demand for computer chips and rising RAM prices that strain supply. It says the move would disrupt a strategy to sustain user engagement across generations. Bloomberg also cites rival Nintendo planning a Switch 2 price increase in 2026 and mentions chatter about a 2027 Xbox release. Sony and Nintendo did not comment. Analysts, including MST Financial, warn the PS6 could slip beyond 2027, as the company weighs cadence against rising component costs.

KPMG Australia partner fined for AI cheating on internal training test

February 16, 2026, 10:00 AM EST. A partner at KPMG Australia has been fined A$10,000 for using AI to cheat on an internal AI-training exam. The penalty reflects a broader wave of AI-enabled cheating accusations at the Big Four firms, with KPMG saying more than two dozen staff have been caught since July. The company relied on its own AI-detection tools to uncover the misconduct, reported by the Australian Financial Review. The case echoes past penalties against KPMG Australia, including a A$615,000 fine in 2021 for widespread misconduct involving improper answer-sharing on tests assessing skill and integrity. Regulators and professional bodies, including the ACCA, have warned of a tipping point as AI outpaces safeguards. KPMG says it will strengthen controls.

NVIDIA vs. Broadcom: Which AI Chip Stock Is the Better Buy Now

February 16, 2026, 9:58 AM EST. Investors weigh two AI-chip plays: NVIDIA and Broadcom. Analysts say NVIDIA benefits from a leading position in AI chips for data centers, while Broadcom relies on a diversified chip portfolio and steady cash flow. The question for buyers: is the growth premium justified or is Broadcom's mix less exposed to AI hype? Valuation, stock price, gross margins, and capital expenditure are at the center of the debate. AI demand, data-center momentum, chip pricing, and potential supply-chain shifts could tilt the outcome. A decisive factor will be whether AI demand sustains momentum into the next cycle. Traders should consider their tolerance for cyclical risk and the scope of AI adoption when comparing these two names.

SanDisk surges after spin-off as AI memory demand reshapes the chip landscape

February 16, 2026, 9:52 AM EST. SanDisk has risen more than 1,500% since spinning off from Western Digital and listing on Nasdaq. The surge comes as AI computing shifts spending toward memory and storage: DRAM and NAND, not just GPUs from Nvidia, power the next wave of data centers. Analysts point to a bottleneck in HBM and memory capacity as AI workloads grow, placing Sandisk's SSD, DRAM and NAND offerings at the center of server infrastructure. Sandisk faces strong demand from hyperscalers and enterprise buyers, even as Nvidia remains the leading AI processor supplier. As of mid-February, the stock traded near $600 a share; analysts expect EPS of $39.45 in 2026 and $76.34 in 2027, suggesting upside if demand sustains. Investors should weigh valuation against execution risk in a fast-moving AI supply chain.

Tesla's $25K Cybercab will be 'agonizingly slow' at first as Musk eyes 2 million robotaxis a year

February 16, 2026, 9:48 AM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk warned that early output for the Cybercab and the Optimus humanoid robot will be slow because 'almost everything is new.' The company plans to start Cybercab production in April, while pushing toward 2 million robotaxis a year. The two-seat vehicle omits a steering wheel and pedals and is expected to cost about $25,000. Tesla also aims for up to 1 million Optimus units annually, a goal Musk says will require building much of the supply chain from scratch and will move at the pace of many tiny parts. The company reported its smallest profit since the pandemic in its latest earnings, and is directing capital expenditures above $20 billion this year toward AI, autonomy, and expanded manufacturing. Tesla is also testing robotaxi rides in Austin without safety monitors.

SparrowRL speeds up reinforcement learning for LLMs over standard internet connections

February 16, 2026, 9:44 AM EST. Researchers from NUS, Anhui University and USTC introduced SparrowRL, a system to speed up post-training reinforcement learning for large language models over standard Ethernet and WAN. It treats updates as lossless sparse deltas and uses pipelined extraction and throughput-aware scheduling to cut transfer payloads by up to 79% and raise per-step throughput by 2.4x to 9.5x for Qwen3 models (4B-14B parameters). Leveraging on-demand GPUs and ordinary networks, SparrowRL delivers 1.21x to 1.59x more tokens per dollar than reserved RDMA clusters, without altering the core RL algorithms. Evaluations spanned up to four regions and showed seamless integration with existing engines like FSDP2 and vLLM. At the heart: only about 1% of parameters change per step, so sparse deltas stay efficient.

Android Auto tests Android 16-style network icons in beta

February 16, 2026, 9:42 AM EST. Google is testing new Android Auto icons to show cellular status, aligning with Android 16's icon design. A batch of new round icons indicates signal strength on the car's screen, with typography for the network type and individual bars rather than a shaded triangle. The move mirrors updates to the phone's status bar, but Android Auto icons are stored inside the app, so some devices- notably Samsung-may display older variants while Pixel phones largely see the newer look. Battery icons remain on the older style for now. The changes appear in Android Auto version 16.3.160744 beta, with no guaranteed public timeline. Google may reveal more at I/O 2026, but a launch isn't assured.

DJI drone pilot fined in Norwich airspace case may be first of its kind

February 16, 2026, 9:40 AM EST. Norwich, UK – Christopher McEwen, 46, pleaded guilty to 17 drone offenses tied to 44 flights between January and June 2025. He flew a DJI Mavic 3 Pro Cine over an active industrial fire inside restricted airspace near Norwich Airport and climbed to about 1,900 feet, nearly five times the legal limit. Police say 33 of the flights occurred inside restricted airspace without ATC permission. He also flew over emergency responders during a January 20 blaze at a disused factory. The offences covered altitude limits, visual-line-of-sight rules, registration, and flying over responders. He was fined £2,000, plus an £800 victim surcharge and £110 in costs; the drone was forfeited and destroyed. Authorities say the case may be the first conviction of its kind and underline safety hazards around airports and first responders.

Samsung teases Galaxy S26 Ultra Privacy Display, highlighting selective on-the-go privacy

February 16, 2026, 9:30 AM EST. Samsung has released another teaser for the Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display, a native screen feature that hides content from onlookers. The technology reportedly blocks details from off-angle views while keeping content visible to the user, and it can selectively obfuscate areas such as notifications rather than applying a full blackout. The teasers even depict scenarios on public transit involving sensitive text and personal content. Samsung says Privacy Display will be an Ultra-exclusive feature, with the Galaxy S26 series slated to launch on February 25. Some observers note the feature aims to improve privacy without sacrificing usability.

Electric Car Battery Life: What It Means for Longevity and Ownership Cost

February 16, 2026, 9:24 AM EST. Electric vehicles offer lower maintenance than internal combustion engine cars, with regenerative braking reducing brake wear and simplified servicing. Lower electricity costs during off-peak periods can make ownership cheaper in the long run, though the upfront price remains higher due to the cost of manufacturing large lithium-ion battery packs. Analysts hope ongoing improvements will shrink cost-per-kWh toward parity with ICE vehicles, easing affordability. Consumers also worry about future battery replacement costs. Automakers have invested heavily in R&D to extend pack life. Lithium-ion batteries, the standard in most EVs, offer high energy density and low self-discharge but rely on cobalt and nickel mining and carry production costs. Battery health hinges on onboard battery management, cooling/heating, and avoidance of full discharge. Extreme temperatures can affect charging and discharging efficiency; automakers, including Audi, use software to mitigate these effects.

iOS 26.3 patches 37 security issues; Apple details vulnerability fixes

February 16, 2026, 9:22 AM EST. Apple released iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3 and macOS Tahoe 26.3 with a heavy emphasis on security fixes rather than new features. The company published the full list of security updates for the new releases. In iOS and iPadOS 26.3, a total of 37 security issues are addressed, according to the release notes. Most fixes show no evidence of exploitation, but Apple flags a dyld vulnerability where an attacker with memory write capability could execute arbitrary code; the firm says it is aware of reports that this issue may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack against specific targeted individuals on earlier iOS versions. Apple provided links to the security release notes for each update.

Who supplies the world's EV batteries? Regional dominance and shifting shares

February 16, 2026, 9:20 AM EST. Global battery supply remains concentrated and regionally uneven. China dominates its domestic market with CATL, BYD, CALB, Gotion, Sunwoda and SVOLT, backed by vertical integration across the supply chain. In Europe, supply is split mainly between Korean and Chinese players; in 2025 Chinese producers supplied 42% of Europe's demand (up 4 percentage points), while Korean vendors held 56% share. In the US, suppliers span Korean, Japanese, US (Ultium, the GM-LG venture) and Chinese firms, with domestic capacity growing but continued reliance on Asian manufacture in the near to mid term. Outside major markets, Chinese manufacturers dominate. As EV adoption accelerates, regions seek resilience, but the combination of scale, cost, and integration keeps Chinese and Korean makers central to near- and medium-term demand.

.hack//Z.E.R.O. announced; CyberConnect2 to self-publish new action RPG

February 16, 2026, 9:18 AM EST. CyberConnect2 announced .hack//Z.E.R.O., an action RPG for home consoles that the studio says is ten years in the making. The project is self-planned, developed and published with permission from the IP holder Bandai Namco Entertainment, marking a rare instance of full in-house control. Taro Hakase, the world-renowned violinist, wrote the music. The game aims for a novel RPG experience that fuses the series' fantasy (The World) with real-world elements, updated for modern expectations and accessible to both veterans and new players. No platforms or release date were announced. The .hack franchise has long used cross-media storytelling, and CyberConnect2 will lead planning through release on this title.

Quantum computing roadmap: superconducting and trapped-ion qubits map a coherent future

February 16, 2026, 9:14 AM EST. Looking ahead is risky, but the quantum computing market-forecast near $200 billion by 2040-demands scrutiny. This overview surveys the technology families with deliverable products and the corporate roadmaps guiding them: superconducting qubits, trapped-ion qubits, quantum annealing, neutral atoms and photonics. It highlights bets from IBM, Google and Rigetti on superconducting qubits; IonQ and Quantinuum on trapped-ion qubits; D-Wave in quantum annealing; Atom Computing and QuEra in neutral-atom work; Xanadu and PsiQuantum in photonics. The piece also notes Intel's silicon spin-qubit work and Microsoft's embryonic topological qubits. For this look, the focus is on superconducting and trapped-ion qubits. Qubit quality matters more than quantity, and scaling hinges on inter-qubit connectivity and cooling to near absolute zero. The roadmaps mix material science with clever architectures.

Presidents' Day 2026: Apple Deals on AirPods, MacBooks, iPads and Watches

February 16, 2026, 9:08 AM EST. Presidents' Day 2026 brings a wave of Apple discounts across major retailers. Mashable notes deals can reach $300 off on new Apple gear, with savings often larger than the brand's own seasonal drops. In practice, third-party retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart typically outprice Apple's official store. The offers cover popular devices: AirPods, MacBooks, iPads, and Apple Watches. Prices are volatile; readers should check stock and verify terms, as sale timing and availability can shift quickly after publication. The report emphasizes evaluating need against deal depth-Apple's ecosystem remains a factor for long-term value, not just headline discounts. Readers are advised to act fast, compare models, and watch for post-sale price moves.

Three reasons most people stay with Windows, even though Linux is free

February 16, 2026, 9:04 AM EST. Many users stay with Windows despite Linux's free appeal. Three factors keep Windows dominant. First, adoption and software compatibility. Windows spent decades building a broad ecosystem, winning vendor support and making Windows the default for devices and games. Consumers assume Windows will run new hardware and software, reinforcing its ubiquity. Second, the first-mover advantage and ongoing momentum: Microsoft's platform became the backbone of business and consumer tech, shaping tools, technologies and infrastructure. Third, Linux hardware support is mature but uneven. While Linux covers popular devices and GPUs, proprietary instruments and niche gear often lack compatible drivers, or require extra research, whereas Windows tends to work out of the box. The result: ecosystem strength, vendor priority, and broad hardware compatibility keep Windows central even with Linux's no-cost appeal.

Cuban forecasts youth jobs boom as AI spreads; tech leaders concur

February 16, 2026, 9:02 AM EST. Mark Cuban argues that AI expansion will spur a surge in youth employment, a view echoed by several tech gurus. Cuban told investors and media that new roles will emerge as companies adopt automation, data analysis, and AI-enabled services. Proponents say the trend could tilt toward entry-level and apprenticeship tracks, with schools and firms aligning curricula to meet demand. Critics caution that gains depend on training pipelines and policy choices, and that displacements could occur before new jobs materialize. Still, the consensus among a circle of founders and investors suggests a longer-term boost to youth jobs as the AI economy scales. The remarks come amid a broader debate over how fast automation will reshape labor markets.

AI accelerates drug discovery, Cha Discovery co-founder says

February 16, 2026, 8:58 AM EST. Cha Discovery, a startup building a computer-aided design suite for molecules, aims to design drugs at the atomic level on a computer so that lab tests have higher success rates. Co-founder Joshua Meyer says the technology bridges programming and molecular biology, a passion he has pursued since childhood and in high school stem cell labs. He recounts his path from OpenAI to Facebook, where early work on GPT-1 and GPT-2 inspired him to apply language-model approaches to DNA and proteins. The venture emphasizes practical outcomes-faster design cycles and higher lab-hit rates-reflecting a broader trend of AI-driven drug discovery maturing beyond theory.

Aluminum-based EV battery could boost cold-weather range and rapid charging

February 16, 2026, 8:56 AM EST. Two Chinese research teams reported advances aimed at improving cold-weather performance for electric-vehicle batteries. In one project, researchers at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics unveiled a liquid-solid battery expected to retain more than 85% of capacity after eight hours at -34°C, with industrial drones showing early promise. In another track, a CAS team tested an aluminum-anode wide-temperature lithium-ion cell in a Geely EX5, claiming over 92% discharge efficiency at -25°C and about 90% state of charge in roughly 20 minutes under extreme cold. Both efforts target reducing winter range loss and speeding charging, though neither technology has been validated in mass-market cars. Analysts note early-stage results must be independently verified before production. If proven scalable, these designs could shrink cold-weather penalties and accelerate charging in cold regions.

DJI drone system trims snowmaking costs at Austrian ski resort

February 16, 2026, 8:54 AM EST. An Austrian ski resort is using a DJI drone system to reduce the energy and water waste tied to snowmaking. Planai-Hochwurzen-Bahnen partnered with KIONIQ to deploy a setup built around the DJI Dock 3 and Matrice 4TD that automates snow assessment and adjustment. The project aims to curb the high winter energy bill that snow production drives and limit losses when wind blows snow off targets. Previously, staff walked the slopes to inspect each snow gun; now a drone with thermal imaging flies automated inspection routes from Dock 3, showing where snow lands and enabling real-time gun recalibration. The system is integrated into KIONIQ's SPECT inspection service and supervised by certified pilots. Officials see it as digital transformation, with broader safety and future extensions.

Musk shifts SpaceX focus from Mars to Moon ahead of Artemis timeline

February 16, 2026, 8:50 AM EST. Elon Musk has reversed SpaceX's Mars priority, saying the company now aims to build a self-growing Moon city within 5-7 years while keeping Mars on a longer horizon. In a post on X, he argued the Moon offers a faster path to expanding civilization, even as NASA's Artemis program faces overruns and delays that push a crewed lunar landing toward 2028. SpaceX remains contracted to provide the Human Landing System (HLS) for Artemis III, aligning resources with the goal to plant the Stars and Stripes on the Moon during the current presidency. A Politico leak cited a 2028 timeline with an in-orbit fuel transfer and an uncrewed Moon test in 2027, highlighting tensions between private plans and NASA schedules.

Amazon Fire 7 tablet hits $39.99 for Presidents Day sale

February 16, 2026, 8:48 AM EST. Amazon is selling its Fire 7 tablet for $39.99 as part of Presidents Day deals, a 33% cut from its $60 list price. The 7-inch tablet targets casual users, families, and kids, offering entry-level performance for light web browsing, video calls, and Alexa access. Amazon bills the new unit as the lowest price of 2026 and the best price in roughly a year in brand-new condition. The sale sits alongside other Presidents Day discounts on Echo Show displays and Echo speakers. This is not a high-end device; its appeal is affordability and simplicity-an inexpensive couch-friendly option for quick tasks without breaking the bank.

Gboard tests 'Cursor mode' to turn space bar into a trackpad for easier text editing

February 16, 2026, 8:46 AM EST. Google is testing a new Cursor mode for Gboard on Android that turns the space bar into a virtual trackpad. Code spotted by Android Authority in version 16.8.2.867538971-beta-arm64-v8a shows pressing and holding the space bar hides the keyboard and reveals a touch area with a movable cursor. Users can drag the cursor in any direction to fix typos across lines or paragraphs, a departure from the current method that requires swiping to an edge and moving up or down. The update sits alongside the existing Glide cursor control but aims for freer movement. It echoes iPhone's Trackpad Mode and could ship soon if tests pass, though Google has not confirmed a release.

AI Summit 2026 Delhi: India's bid to shape AI in the Global South

February 16, 2026, 8:44 AM EST. Delhi hosts the India-AI Impact Summit 2026, expected to draw heads of government and top tech leaders from more than 100 countries. The event, billed by India as the first international AI summit in the Global South, aims to set governance norms, data policy, and investment pathways for future AI development. Analysts say the gathering could help India cement a leadership role in the Global South's tech architecture, expand collaborations, and attract talent. The BBC's Arunoday Mukharji explains the stakes and opportunities.

China's AI push threatens U.S. dominance as tech shock accelerates

February 16, 2026, 8:40 AM EST. Rory Green, TS Lombard's chief China economist, told CNBC the China tech shock is just getting started and is reshaping the global AI landscape. He said China is moving up the value chain rapidly, aided by a massive supply chain and state funding, including a 60.06 billion yuan AI fund and the AI+ initiative to weave AI across the economy. China is building large language models on homegrown chips and deploying Huawei chip clusters with cheap energy to scale compute, narrowing the gap with Nvidia. Green warned the world could form a China tech sphere as low-cost Chinese tech attracts developing economies, potentially leaving most of the globe on a Chinese tech stack in 5-10 years and challenging the U.S. dominance.

iOS 27 'Rave' to clean up code, could boost battery life

February 16, 2026, 8:38 AM EST. Apple's iOS 27, code-named Rave, will prioritize cleaning up the OS internals, a move Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says could yield better battery life and a snappier experience. The cleanup mirrors the Snow Leopard effort, focusing on removing old code, rewriting features, and subtly upgrading apps. Gurman says the result could be a faster, more responsive OS, with interface tweaks still modest compared with iOS 26's Liquid Glass. Efficiency improvements are intended to translate into tangible gains for users, though Apple has not said how it will market them. The push comes as Apple readies new device categories, including a touchscreen MacBook Pro and a foldable iPhone, while continuing to advance AI capabilities and a revamped Siri.

Schmidt warns U.S. needs 92 GW for AI growth; Musk hints at space data centers

February 16, 2026, 8:36 AM EST. Eric Schmidt warned the U.S. needs about 92 gigawatts of additional power to sustain AI growth. Elon Musk reposted Schmidt's clip, saying the grid is 'running out of electricity' and joking about a company that could build data centers in space. The idea of space-based data centers would rely on uninterrupted solar power and novel cooling, a true Moonshot under Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai and SpaceX breakthroughs. Pichai noted feasibility partly due to SpaceX's launch advances. AWS chief Matt Garman dismissed the economics today, citing rocket costs and payload limits. The debate underscores a growing energy bottleneck as AI workloads rise and demand for global data-center capacity expands.

Google Pixel 10 Pro XL discounted to $949 on Amazon as Galaxy S26 buzz intensifies

February 16, 2026, 8:34 AM EST. Amazon is cutting 21% off the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, dropping the price from $1,199 to $949 for an unlocked model. The deal lets buyers switch carriers freely and avoid installment plans. The Pixel 10 Pro XL sports a 6.8-inch Super Actua display protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and a camera system praised for stills and video, with Gemini Live AI integration. Google also includes perks such as a year of Google AI Pro, six months of Fitbit Premium, and three months of YouTube Premium. The post cautions that carrier trade-in pitches will return, encouraging buyers to buy unlocked now to keep options open and plan for future upgrades. The sale appears to be fading quickly on Amazon.

PACT, BCIT partner on EV battery safety education using Thermo Shield and TR Sleeve

February 16, 2026, 8:30 AM EST. An American manufacturer and Canada's BCIT launched an EV battery safety program. Packaging And Crating Technologies (PACT) provides its Thermo Shield fire-suppressant wrap and TR Sleeve for BCIT's Electric Vehicle Technology and Service courses. The partnership expands training as Canada's EV fleet grows; BCIT cites Clean Energy Canada data showing 23% of BC new registrations in 2024 were zero-emission vehicles. Instructors say the curriculum will address new service and repair safety needs for lithium batteries. Berladyn, BCIT automotive technologist instructor, credits a 2023 National Battery Show exposure with shaping the collaboration. The Thermo Shield technology uses a coated paper and ink to release a moisture barrier that cools the battery and reduces the risk of thermal runaway, while the TR Sleeve mitigates propagation between cells.

Apple's iOS 27 to trim code, tweak UI and boost battery life: Bloomberg report

February 16, 2026, 8:28 AM EST. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman outlines Apple's plans for iOS 27, focusing on code cleanup, an updated interface and better battery life. The company aims to tidy the codebase, upgrade older apps, and tweak Liquid Glass, a UI polish, to reduce inefficiencies. The report says the changes will be mostly incremental: removing "scraps" of old code, minor interface tweaks, and subtly upgrading aged apps to run more smoothly. Engineers anticipate efficiency gains that could extend battery life, though Apple hasn't said whether the improvements will be marketed as a feature. Apple is also pushing forward on AI features, including delays to some WWDC Siri promises and a potential Siri chatbot for iOS 27. The move reflects an ongoing tension between performance, stability and new capabilities.

US lawmakers press VPN funding to help Iranians bypass internet censorship

February 16, 2026, 8:22 AM EST. US agencies and lawmakers are seeking $10 million to fund VPNs and other anti-censorship tools for Iranian civilians, amid a surge in demand during weeks of domestic unrest. The plan targets about a quarter of Iran's population to access the internet free of the government's filters. Central to the effort is the Open Technology Fund (OTF), which finances such programs, now strained by demand rising to an estimated 25 million users from the 7.5 million it can support. The funding would flow through the State Department to the US Agency for Global Media before reaching OTF, a process that typically takes one to two weeks. Officials warn delays could force hard choices to cut access for millions if resources arrive late.

Georgia data centers' AI energy boom may be overestimated, raising ratepayer risk

February 16, 2026, 8:20 AM EST. A new analysis questions the scope of energy demand from data centers across Georgia and the Southeast. The report, by Greenlink Analytics and Science for Georgia, argues utilities like Georgia Power are planning for an extreme growth scenario with only about a 0.2% likelihood of materializing. Analysts estimate data-center electricity use region-wide could rise by 2.2 to 8.7 gigawatts by 2031, though rapid AI advancements could temper overall demand. The study notes regulators approved large expansions, including a 10 GW buildup and new natural gas-fired turbines, to meet claimed needs. Critics warn regular ratepayers may shoulder the cost of infrastructure if centers never materialize. The risk: paying for capacity that sits unused.

YouTuber triples iPhone 11 Pro battery with $10 Amazon kit, but repair is risky

February 16, 2026, 8:16 AM EST. An intrepid YouTuber, The Fix, fitted a 12,000mAh replacement in an iPhone 11 Pro after its battery degraded to 67% of capacity. The kit, sold on Amazon for about $10 and including tools, lets owners swap the pack. On restart, the device showed a 100% maximum capacity with an 'unverified' battery health readout, while diagnostics later pegged actual capacity at 9,997mAh, still more than three times the original 3,046mAh. Skepticism remains: the pack occupies the same space as the smaller battery; long-term performance isn't tested; and Apple does not endorse such upgrades. Third-party batteries vary in quality and safety. The fix offers a cheaper path than a new iPhone, but carries real risks.

Apple reveals iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 adoption figures

February 16, 2026, 8:14 AM EST. Apple has released updated adoption figures for iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, based on devices transacting on the App Store on February 12, 2026. The company says 74% of iPhones introduced in the last four years run iOS 26, and 66% of all iPhones. For iPads, 66% of models introduced in the last four years run iPadOS 26, with 57% of all iPads on that version. By contrast, iOS 18 figures (based on January 21, 2025 transactions) were 76% for iPhones introduced in the last four years, 68% of all iPhones, 63% of iPads introduced in the last four years, and 53% of all iPads. Apple notes iOS 26 had about 150 days of availability versus 127 days for iOS 18, helping explain the slower uptake. Three extra weeks also benefited iPadOS 26.

APAC battery construction pipeline to reach $45.4 billion by 2027, GlobalData says

February 16, 2026, 8:08 AM EST. APAC's battery-building boom is set to continue, with project values forecast at $45.4 billion in 2027. GlobalData notes a growing backlog in planning even as current execution slows. Kishore Chandra, Construction Analyst at GlobalData, says 206+ major APAC projects, totalling about $127.2 billion, will unfold 2026-2028, driven by EV demand and energy storage needs. China leads across raw materials, cathode/anode production and cell assembly; South Korea and Japan hold advantages in high-tech chemistries. Indonesia and Malaysia are rising as key supply-chain nodes due to nickel and cobalt reserves and new processing capacity. By 2028, planning exceeds $38 billion while execution remains under $1.3 billion, signaling a shift toward preparatory work ahead of a 2029-2030 capacity rush. Novel chemistries are slated for mass production, reducing reliance on lithium.

Mirattery raises 1 billion yuan in Series C3; Nio's battery asset operator expands financing

February 16, 2026, 8:02 AM EST. Mirattery, the battery asset operator for Nio, announced a 1 billion yuan Series C3 round, lifting its Series C total to 2 billion yuan and overall funding to over 3 billion yuan across six rounds. State-owned shareholders Hefei Construction Investment Holding and HETDZ Investment Promotion joined, with continued backing from Haining Economic Development Zone, Hainan Chengmai, and Meishan Dongpo. Founders Nio Group and CATL also increased stakes. Proceeds will fund battery asset management, R&D, recycling and related ventures, strengthening service levels and speeding market-ready research. This round is Mirattery's eighth financing in six years. It also issued 501 million yuan of asset-backed securities-described as the world's first holding-type power battery REITs. Capacity exceeds 42 GWh serving over 550,000 users; 196 patents by end-2025.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ hits $140 price, over $200 cheaper than iPad

February 16, 2026, 7:58 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Tab A9+ is discounted to $140 on Amazon, a 36% cut that undercuts Apple's iPad by more than $200. The tablet stacks expandable storage via a microSD slot up to 1TB, a 11-inch 16:10 display with a 90Hz refresh rate, and four Dolby Atmos-enhanced speakers. Power comes from a Snapdragon 695 processor, with multi-active windows for running several apps side by side. A 7,040 mAh battery supports USB-C fast charging and long life, useful for travel or group use. Ahead of Samsung's next Unpacked event, the deal makes the device a budget-friendly alternative for families and students, especially with Samsung Kids preloaded.

Dell XPS 14 benchmarks show Core Ultra 7 355 trailing Core Ultra X7 358H by 30-50%

February 16, 2026, 7:54 AM EST. Notebookcheck's benchmarking shows the Core Ultra 7 355 in the Dell XPS 14 trails the Core Ultra X7 358H by roughly 30-50% in multi-threaded workloads. The gap shrinks only slightly after throttling stabilizes, as the X7 unlocks higher Turbo Boost potential and efficiency. In our tests, the Core Ultra 7 355 consumes almost the same mains power as the X7 when pushed via CineBench R23 xT, so the reduced performance does not translate into proportional power savings. The U-series remains slower and less efficient than Panther Lake-H and newer Lunar Lake generations; overall, the Core Ultra 7 355 sits closer to Lunar Lake 7 258V in capability, with only modest NPU TOPS parity. Dell's XPS 14 offers both configurations, but buyers should expect a noticeable performance gap if choosing the Core Ultra 7.

Samsung's S26 ad teases 'Zero-peeking' privacy display powered by Flex Magic Pixel

February 16, 2026, 7:52 AM EST. In a new Samsung ad for the Galaxy S26, the company teases a built-in privacy mode that can darken content when viewed obliquely. Leaks from Ice Universe mention a pixel-level privacy feature powered by a Flex Magic Pixel OLED panel, first shown by Samsung Display at MWC 2024. The technology ostensibly adjusts viewing angles on a per-pixel basis, enabling selective blackout in apps or screen areas. An AI layer could automatically protect sensitive information in banking apps or conceal notifications in messaging apps, per the short clip. Samsung says more will be revealed at its Unpacked event on February 25. The ad corroborates rumors, though official details remain scarce ahead of the launch.

Tesla pivots from cars to robots as sales slip; Musk's Mars vision endures

February 16, 2026, 7:50 AM EST. DriveSmart's EV editor notes a sales slide for Tesla in the UK (January down 50%), with a global downshift in 2025. The company has halted first-generation Model S and Model X production at Fremont, refocusing that plant on Optimus humanoid robots, aiming for a million a year. Musk presses ahead with autonomous tech, including a Cybercab, while updates continue for the Model Y and Model 3. The Semi is still on the horizon; battery production accelerates. Is this a car pivot or a broader restructuring? Musk's Mars ambition remains, but the Model 3 and Model Y remain among the best EVs today, backed by the Supercharger network. Competition is fierce from BMW iX3, Volvo EX60, and growing affordable EVs. Tesla isn't exiting cars; the brand may simply find its place in a changing market.

Georgia must regulate AI in the public interest to thrive in this age

February 16, 2026, 7:48 AM EST. An opinion piece argues that unequal public infrastructure and limited government capacity threaten broad AI literacy and protective policies for workers and communities in Georgia. In Atlanta, leaders unveiled the AI Literacy Pipeline to Prosperity Project for students in underserved areas, a step toward practical training amid rising automation. Cultural anthropologist Anuli Akanegbu notes that perceptions of being AI literate vary and that uncertainty over the goal of AI literacy stalls policy development. The piece identifies three obstacles to implementation: unclear definitions, uneven resources, and shifting public-private power. It urges Georgia to regulate AI in the public interest to safeguard jobs and privacy, align incentives, and accelerate accountable deployment of technology across schools, government, and industry.

Exclusive: Apple News under pressure as conservatives challenge coverage

February 16, 2026, 7:40 AM EST. Apple News, once pitched as a bulwark against online misinformation, now faces political scrutiny that could shape its future. The FTC has sent a letter warning that the app may violate consumer protection law by omitting explicitly conservative coverage. The pressure comes after months of work by the Media Research Center (MRC), a right-wing watchdog, which in February claimed Apple News favored left-leaning and centrist outlets with 620 stories and zero from explicit right-leaning ones. MRC officials argued aggregators drive traffic to legacy publishers, while critics say some classifications mislabel outlets such as the Wall Street Journal as centrist. The study circulated among the White House and conservative media, drawing regulators' attention; the FTC inquiry and Apple declined to comment.

Dell XPS 14 Core Ultra 7 355 review: solid value, but not standout

February 16, 2026, 7:38 AM EST. The Core Ultra 7 355 trails the flagship X7 358H in performance and performance-per-watt, closer to Lunar Lake-V than the top tier. In practice, it often feels like a rebranded Core Ultra 7 255U, with no meaningful cooling or runtime edge over faster X7 models. For buyers focused on value, the base IPS configuration remains compelling, delivering solid image quality and practical for browsing, word processing and general multimedia, at roughly $500 less than the OLED variant. Yet power users and content creators will want the higher-end X7. Dell preserves the design and build quality, with two display options: IPS 1920×1200 and OLED 2880×1800. The IPS option improves brightness at center but suffers slower black-white response and reduced DCI-P3 coverage, a caveat for color work.

Poco M8 Pro 5G review: big battery, bright AMOLED, solid daily performance but missing eSIM and microSD

February 16, 2026, 7:36 AM EST. The Poco M8 Pro 5G targets value shoppers with a 6500 mAh battery that delivers long runtimes without adding weight. Its 6.83-inch AMOLED display is bright for the price, and the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 provides solid everyday performance. The camera performs adequately, and the device promises software updates through January 2031. It also offers a functional set of features: IP68 dust/water resistance, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C, NFC, and dual SIM. It misses eSIM support and microSD expansion, and the lack of an always-on display is noticeable. HyperOS 2.0 (based on Android 15) includes some ads, though they can be disabled. The price hovers just under 300 Euros. Weight is a modest 206 grams, and the build uses a plastic back with a premium look. Xiaomi promotes self-repair tools and a trade-in program.

Google patches Chrome zero-day CVE-2026-2441 exploited in the wild

February 16, 2026, 7:34 AM EST. Google released security updates for Chrome on Friday to fix a high-severity flaw that has been exploited in the wild. CVE-2026-2441 is a use-after-free bug in CSS that could let a remote attacker execute arbitrary code inside a sandbox via a crafted HTML page. The flaw was reported by security researcher Shaheen Fazim on Feb. 11, 2026 and is described in the NVD as enabling code execution. Google said an exploit exists in the wild but did not disclose targets. This is the first actively exploited Chrome zero-day patched in 2026. Apple also patched a separate zero-day last week. Users should update to Chrome versions 145.0.7632.75/76 on Windows/macOS, or 144.0.7559.75 on Linux, and relaunch. Other Chromium-based browsers should apply fixes when available.

Android 17 Beta 1 brings Pixel Launcher UI tweaks: slimmer search bar, customizable shortcut, At a Glance removal

February 16, 2026, 7:32 AM EST. Android 17 Beta 1, rolled out February 13, 2026, parks a handful of Pixel Launcher UI changes under a broader focus on performance and large-screen improvements. The most visible tweak is a slimmer home-screen search bar, with the shortcut now embedded inside the bar and customizable. By default it shows AI Mode but can be swapped for tools such as Gemini Live, Translate, Song Search, Weather, and Dictionary; voice search and Google Lens shortcuts aren't replaceable yet. Google also lets users remove the At a Glance widget from the home screen by long-pressing and deleting it in Launcher settings. Minor tweaks include a refreshed brightness icon in Quick Settings and clearer access to volume controls. The changes are small but add flexibility while the broader Android 17 focus remains on performance.

Apple's Siri revamp delayed again; trust and roadmap under scrutiny

February 16, 2026, 7:30 AM EST. Apple's Siri revamp has been delayed again, renewing questions about the voice assistant's usefulness. Macworld reports the update, first shown as part of the iOS 18 plan for the iPhone 16, has slipped from iOS 18.0 to 18.4, then to iOS 26 and 26.4, with current bets on iOS 26.5 or iOS 27. Two iPhone generations could pass before new features arrive. The pause matters beyond software quirks: Siri remains unreliable and feature-poor versus rivals, embedded in most Apple devices. The delays test user trust in Apple's ability to improve core services and keep customers in the ecosystem, even as WWDC and other events loom.

Kids Smartwatch Market Set to Reach $6.3 Trillion by 2035, Driven by Safety and Education Features

February 16, 2026, 7:28 AM EST. The global kids smartwatch market is expanding rapidly. 2024 size is about USD 1,919.4 Billion, with a projected rise to USD 2,138.6 Billion in 2025 and USD 6,306.24 Billion by 2035, a CAGR of 11.42% (2025-2035). Key drivers are child safety, rapid tech advances, and demand for fitness and education tools. Segments include basic vs advanced models, guided by features such as GPS tracking, two-way communication, SOS, cameras, fitness sensors, and parental controls. Regions lead by North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, boosted by smartphone penetration and rising incomes. Wearable adoption remains strong as parents seek connected safety and communication for children.

Google Pixel's Now Playing may get its own app, reshaping music history across devices

February 16, 2026, 7:24 AM EST. Google Pixel's Now Playing feature, once a discreet setting under Pixel Ambient Services, may soon migrate to its own app. An APK teardown by 9to5Google suggests Google is testing a dedicated Now Playing app that would place song recognition on the home screen or app drawer, rather than tucked in settings. A standalone app could let users move their listening history when upgrading phones, addressing the pain of losing years of discoveries. Google would face competition from Apple's integrated Shazam workflow if it keeps pace. Critics argue the change adds another app to manage, reintroducing visibility that some users prefer not to expose. The effort is described as early-stage, aimed at easier management and a more robust experience.

Nvidia faces uphill path to meet lofty investor expectations ahead of Feb. 25 results

February 16, 2026, 7:20 AM EST. Nvidia's fiscal Q4 2026 results, due after the Feb. 25 close, will test investors' expectations as AI hardware demand remains the primary driver. Analysts forecast about $65.6 billion in sales, up 67% year over year, and $1.52 in EPS. Nvidia has beaten consensus EPS in each of the last four quarters, by roughly 3% to 8%, so another beat is plausible but not guaranteed. The lift comes from AI GPUs used in training and inference for data centers, notably the Hopper (H100), Blackwell and Blackwell Ultra families. CEO Jensen Huang has pressed R&D, aiming for an annual GPU refresh; the Vera Rubin chip, powered by the new Vera processor, is slated to debut later this year. Margin and demand shifts remain the test for investors.

Trump opposes Utah AI transparency bill as White House pushes national 'One Rulebook'

February 16, 2026, 7:18 AM EST. President Trump opposed HB 286, the Utah AI Transparency Act, which would require large frontier AI developers to publish public safety and child-protection plans. The White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs called the measure 'unfixable' and said it runs counter to the Administration's AI Agenda in a Feb. 12 memo to Utah lawmakers. Backers accuse Trump of attempting to kill oversight, while Trump argues for a national 'One Rulebook' to replace a patchwork of state laws. He signed an executive order in December directing an AI litigation task force led by Attorney General Pam Bondi to challenge state rules. Supporters say the bill would strengthen safety; opponents fear burdensome regulation and eroded national leadership.

Verizon imposes 35-day unlock delay for paid-off devices, retroactive policy

February 16, 2026, 7:08 AM EST. Verizon updated its postpaid device unlocking rules, imposing a 35-day waiting period for devices paid off online via the My Verizon app or through authorized retailers. The policy delays unlocking unless a payment is made with a secure payment type in-store-defined as cash, an EMV chip card, or contactless payment. The change also covers devices paid with a Verizon Gift Card. Verizon says the wait allows fund verification to prevent fraud. The policy went into effect on January 27 and was publicly updated around February 11, with some customers reportedly affected retroactively. Critics label the move anti-consumer; Verizon notes that using a secure in-store payment triggers immediate unlock.

NVIDIA expands AI reach with industrial partners; investors weigh valuation signals

February 16, 2026, 7:04 AM EST. NVIDIA is expanding its industrial AI push via long-running partnerships. A deal with Dassault Systèmes aims to power Virtual Twins and AI-driven factory deployments. It also partners with Opentrons Labworks to bring its Isaac and Cosmos platforms into laboratory robotics and automation for life sciences. Additional pilots with EPRI, Prologis and InfraPartners explore distributed inference micro data centers at utility substations to enable localized AI compute. The stock traded around $182.81, with a multi-year rally: 3-year returns positive, 5-year gains above 10x, yet shares fell 3.8% last week and 1.8% this month. Analysts' targets sit above, while valuation signals suggest a premium; investors weigh durable demand against a high earnings multiple as partnerships scale.

Galaxy S26 Ultra privacy display could prompt Apple to copy feature, leak suggests

February 16, 2026, 6:58 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra is rumored to introduce a privacy display that uses screen tech and AI to obscure its content from side onlookers. The feature aims to keep texts, financial apps, and photos private when the phone is viewed at an angle. A report citing the intelligence firm Omdia and leaker Ice Universe says Apple is watching and could copy the tech for future devices. The strongest hint is a possible path to Apple's MacBook line by 2029, with phones potentially following later. Samsung's marketing and press materials are not yet official, and rivals often adopt such innovations slowly. Even if proved practical, not many buyers would choose the device solely for this feature, though it could become a defining one.

How to Stay Anonymous on the Internet: Practical steps to protect your privacy

February 16, 2026, 6:54 AM EST. Online activity leaves traces; for privacy, security and freedom, anonymity matters. Advertisers build profiles; websites log your IP; third parties may collect data. Journalists, marketers, developers and freelancers may need anonymity to protect work. Tracking relies on cookies, browser fingerprinting, IP tracking and device identification; even incognito modes and cookie clearing aren't enough. A layered approach is required. Start with a privacy-focused browser that blocks third-party scripts and reduces data sharing. For higher anonymity, tools such as Octo Browser create isolated profiles to defeat fingerprinting. Mask your IP address with a VPN or proxy, and combine both for better privacy. Manage cookies and tracking scripts to limit data collection. A comprehensive strategy pairs browser choice, IP masking, and restricted data sharing for ongoing protection.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 hits Presidents' Day price cuts across Amazon and Best Buy

February 16, 2026, 6:52 AM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 7 remains the standout among foldables, now propped up by Presidents' Day price cuts. Amazon lists a 256GB model at $899, 18% off, in Blue Shadow, Coral Red and Jet Black. A 512GB variant drops to about $1,019 (16% off) for Coral Red or Jet Black; Blue Shadow at $1,016 after a 17% cut. Best Buy offers the 256GB version for $799 with activation on Verizon or AT&T. The phone widens the outer display to 4.1 inches, and the main display to 6.9 inches, with Gemini Live multimodal AI and Galaxy AI features like Now Bar and Cross App Actions, plus DeX support. Battery is 4,300 mAh, roughly 12 hours of use; charging sticks at 25W wired and 15W wireless. Cameras see modest gains, but the price remains the obstacle; deals make it easier to buy.

ISRO rocket debris with Indian space agency logo found on Maldives island

February 16, 2026, 6:48 AM EST. A resident of L Kunahandhoo in the Maldives found rocket debris on an uninhabited island and brought it to the local boatyard. Photos shared by the Kunahandhoo Council show a white riveted component with scorch marks bearing the ISRO logo. Authorities say they collected the fragments for analysis; Isro has not issued a statement. Officials say the pieces appear to be from a rocket launched in 2025. Debris like this often includes a payload fairing that protects satellites during ascent and typically burns up on re-entry before washing into the sea. The finding echoes past cases in Sri Lanka and Australia, where ocean currents carry such material. Experts urge closer monitoring of designated splashdown zones to track and manage this activity.

Presidents' Day Apple deals bring $99 AirPods 4, record-low Apple Watch and $100 off iPad Pro (M5)

February 16, 2026, 6:46 AM EST. Apple's iPad Pro (M5) tops the lineup, offered in 11- and 13-inch sizes with the fastest processor among iPads. Broida calls it overkill for everyday use but indispensable for mission-critical work, especially when editing video or juggling large documents. For Presidents' Day, Apple trims $100 from the Pro, delivering the lowest price ever. The sale also features AirPods 4 at $99 and an Apple Watch at a record-low price.

Microsoft manager pivots from admin to AI role, highlighting internal mobility

February 16, 2026, 6:42 AM EST. A Microsoft manager explains how she moved from an administrative role into an AI-focused position. The transition reflects growing demand for AI skills inside large tech teams, and shows how internal mobility, mentorship, and targeted training can unlock opportunities. The story highlights practical steps like taking on cross-team projects, earning relevant certifications, and building a portfolio of AI initiatives. Executives say the move signals a broader trend: employers value hands-on experience and curiosity over traditional titles. The account includes insights on navigating corporate ladders, reskilling, and aligning personal interests with company AI strategy.

AI progress accelerates, sparking apocalyptic warning in tech media

February 16, 2026, 6:32 AM EST. A Fox News column argues AI is accelerating toward what it calls an apocalyptic threshold. The author writes without tech aid, contrasting cautious doubt with a turning point described by AI researcher Matt Shuman: faster model releases, and a shift from guidance to finished results. He cites February launches by OpenAI and Anthropic as evidence that the technology now acts with judgment and taste, delivering outcomes with little human input. The piece warns the disruption could span law, finance, medicine and design as plain-English prompts yield polished work rather than drafts. It portrays the risk as concrete, not merely hype, calling for careful governance as the pace of change quickens.

Galaxy S26 Ultra could gain seven upgrades beyond leaks, including brighter display and AI accelerator

February 16, 2026, 6:28 AM EST. Samsung plans to unveil the Galaxy S26 Ultra on February 25, 2026, alongside the Galaxy S26 lineup. Leaked details point to seven upgrades beyond the already known specs. Expect brighter visuals thanks to the new M14 OLED panel, with higher peak brightness. Storage could jump to UFS 4.1, offering faster I/O than the S25 Ultra; Samsung has signaled UFS 5.0 could appear by 2027 for on-device AI. The device may get improved thermal management via a larger vapor chamber to curb throttling on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. An enhanced anti-reflective layer could reduce glare, and an embedded AI processing unit would accelerate on-device AI tasks. All remain rumors pending official confirmation.

Apple iPhone 18 Pro variable aperture faces engineering hurdles, says former phone engineer

February 16, 2026, 6:22 AM EST. Phone upgrades bring promise and risk. A former phone engineer outlines what a rumored variable aperture on the iPhone 18 Pro could introduce. He cites three main issues: first, mechanical complexity from moving parts-aperture blades and a cam ring that adjusts light-raising the odds of wear and failure. Second, extra hardware would require more space, potentially enlarging the camera block or forcing changes to other components and altering the phone's silhouette. Third, durability concerns arise as users hold devices longer. The benefits aren't dismissed: improved image quality across lighting and more control. Still, the author notes most users favor speed and simplicity, and Apple would need to balance capability with durability, size, and real-world use.

NEXCOM debuts MIL-STD-461G-rugged AI edge platform with NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin

February 16, 2026, 6:10 AM EST. NEXCOM expands rugged AI edge computing with the ATC 3750-IP7-6C, integrating the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin SoM to deliver up to 200/275 INT8 Sparse TOPS. The enclosure is IP67-rated, shielding the system from dust and water ingress. It accepts a wide DC input and meets MIL-STD-461G electromagnetic compatibility, with MIL-STD-810H shock and vibration resistance. The unit is CE/FCC/UKCA/E-mark/EN 50155 compliant and operates from -25°C to 60°C, enabling reliable edge AI inference in harsh environments such as smart fleets, autonomous systems, mining, construction, and railway settings. MIL-STD-461G defines EMI/EMC requirements for military equipment; achieving compliance demonstrates resilience under severe electromagnetic conditions across mission-critical applications.

AI scare trade may not be done as market wobbles across sectors

February 16, 2026, 5:56 AM EST. New York – A broad stock sell-off tied to AI disruption hit software first and then spread to insurance, real estate services and logistics, signaling the AI trade may not be done. Jefferies strategist Mohit Kumar said investors rotate into anything AI-sensitive in a 'shoot first, ask questions later' mode. UBS analysts argued the pullback could be overdone, noting insurance brokers remain essential intermediaries even as AI tools threaten parts of their model. Real estate services fell on concerns about high fees and labor intensity amid disruption, with Cushman & Wakefield, CBRE and JLL among the losers. Analysts warned AI could curb demand for office space, potentially amplifying pressure on traditional brokers and property services.

SpaceX launches Starlink satellites from California coast; booster lands on droneship

February 16, 2026, 5:54 AM EST. SpaceX launched two dozen Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base near Santa Barbara on Valentine's Day evening, casting a visible plume along the Southern California coast. The Falcon 9 lifted off at about 6 p.m. local time, with sunset just before. The exhaust plume and rocket were visible from Los Angeles and other parts of the region as the flight proceeded along the coast. After stage separation, the first stage booster landed on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship in the Pacific. SpaceX plans three more Falcon 9 launches from Vandenberg on February 18, 21 and 25. Starlink operates a satellite internet constellation around 340 miles up; when conditions permit, the satellites appear as a train across the night sky. Viewers can use FindStarlink for viewing times.

Android Auto fixes Do Not Disturb mute issue by reintroducing Bluetooth driving status indicator

February 16, 2026, 5:52 AM EST. Google has quietly tweaked Android Auto's Do Not Disturb behavior by re-adding a Bluetooth-based driving indicator. Spotted by Android Authority, the change restores the option to enable Do Not Disturb when the phone is connected to a car dashboard via Bluetooth, not just motion. The tweak reduces the risk of passengers' alerts being muted. The update appears in Google Play Services version 26.05.32 and is rolling out to compatible devices. On Pixel phones, Settings > Modes and Driving shows the While driving toggle with Bluetooth now available again. Samsung devices already check for a car dashboard connection, not only Bluetooth. Google has not issued an official statement; there are no announced Android Auto upgrades beyond this tweak.

Former NPR host sues Google over AI voice in NotebookLM

February 16, 2026, 5:46 AM EST. Former NPR host David Greene has sued Google, alleging the company copied his voice to train a male co-host for NotebookLM's Audio Overviews. The California complaint claims Google replicated Greene's distinctive delivery and persona without consent or compensation. NotebookLM, described by Google as a breakout AI product, introduced Audio Overviews in late 2024, letting users turn notes and documents into short podcast-style segments featuring a male and female host. Greene's lawyers say a hired AI forensic firm found a 53-60% confidence the voice resembled Greene; Google says the voice is a paid professional actor. The case highlights ongoing debates over data use and compensation in AI voice training, even as tech firms push new note-taking tools.

Fund Beating 99% of Peers Sees AI Threat to Software Makers; Few Survive

February 16, 2026, 5:40 AM EST. Polar Capital fund manager Nick Evans, whose global technology fund beat 99% of peers over one year and 97% over five, warns that application software faces an existential threat from AI. He has sold almost all other software holdings, keeping a small Microsoft stake and some call options, arguing many firms will not survive. Evans says AI coding tools can replicate and modify much existing software, pushing competition from clients building tools in-house and from AI startups. He sees some resilience for players like SAP that sell complex packages, but assigns wide uncertainty to long-term valuations as AI powers up. The fund tilts toward semiconductors-Nvidia leads near 10% of the portfolio-and toward networking gear, fiber optics, and data-center power infrastructure. Analysts at JPMorgan see a potential rebound for software names, while cash-flow pressure grows.

Advantech showcases Edge AI, robotics at Embedded World 2026

February 16, 2026, 5:30 AM EST. Advantech will spotlight Edge AI acceleration, robotics and vertical-ready platforms at Embedded World 2026 in Nuremberg, March 10-12. The booth, Hall 3, Booth 339, will show end-to-end Edge AI solutions developed with partners including NVIDIA, Qualcomm, Intel, NXP and AMD. Live demos illustrate AI-driven robotics, edge HPC and device AI for medical, industrial and smart infrastructure, plus AI acceleration from vision to voice. A new presentation stage will host expert talks on accelerating AI at the edge, with sessions on March 10-12 led by Advantech engineers. The company also emphasizes its embedded security and regulatory compliance stance.

Tesla bets $20B on robotaxis, autonomous future

February 16, 2026, 5:28 AM EST. Tesla plans to invest over $20 billion by 2026, its largest capital push to date, focused on autonomous vehicles and robotaxis. Three of six new factories will support Optimus, the Semi, and a megafactory for battery storage; the other three target a lithium refinery, a lower-cost LFP battery factory, and Cybercab production to sustain EV growth. CEO Elon Musk has argued that miles driven by humans will shrink as software and robotics advance, suggesting Tesla could deploy more Cybercabs than other vehicles over time. Data from Insurify shows the Model 3 is a common rideshare option, illustrating demand for EVs in mobility services. The plan signals a shift toward a transportation market oriented around autonomous, robotaxi-driven mobility.

Apple Glasses 2026: Lightweight AR glasses aim for everyday use, 2027 release window

February 16, 2026, 5:12 AM EST. Apple Glasses 2026 are shaping up as a lighter, everyday alternative to Vision Pro. The AR glasses are expected to be under 50 grams with titanium, aluminum, and durable plastics, prescription inserts, and multiple styles, moving away from bulky goggles toward fashion-forward frames. They reportedly rely on a feature set called Visual Intelligence, with on-device processing and iPhone integration for hands-free help, translations in 20+ languages, object and landmark recognition, and context-aware audio via Siri. First-gen devices reportedly emphasize practical tasks-navigation, translations, calls and media functions-rather than immersive AR. The package may include 1080p video capture, privacy LEDs, tap controls on stems, and eye-tracking; a 2027 release and price range of roughly $499 to $1,000 were cited. Battery life 8-12 hours with phone processing.

Amazon Adds IonQ Stake as 13F Reveals Quantum-Computing Spotlight

February 16, 2026, 5:10 AM EST. Amazon ended 2025 with a $3.5 billion investment portfolio and opened a new position in IonQ, the quantum-computing stock. The moves appear in Amazon's quarterly Form 13F, which shows holdings of large asset managers; filings are due within 45 days after quarter end. The IonQ stake adds to a burgeoning interest in quantum computing, a sector with a potential global addressable market of roughly $450 billion to $850 billion by 2040 per Boston Consulting Group. Investors warn the story carries risk: technology cycles, execution, and competition can swing returns. Even so, the filing signals how major players are positioning around quantum computing amid a broader push into AI and specialized hardware. Amazon's stake is small relative to its $3.5 trillion enterprise, but notable for sentiment.

Ex-Tesla Engineer Says EVs Took a Wrong Turn; Longbow Seeks a Better Path

February 16, 2026, 5:08 AM EST. Longbow, founded in 2023 by Daniel Davey and Mark Tapscott, pursues EVs with first principles engineering, lightweight design and additive manufacturing. It rejects vertical integration in favor of using proven components and a local, low-volume supply chain. The aim: EVs that feel like sports cars, not tech showcases. Jenny Keisu joined leadership in 2025 from X Shore to broaden the electric-marine angle. Tapscott says a Tesla co-founder hinted that the supply chain wasn't ready 15-20 years ago, but is now. Longbow plans to build using existing parts instead of creating motors or factories from scratch, emphasizing a resilient supply chain and avoiding oversized systems.

iPhone 17e slated for Feb. 19 launch with MagSafe, Dynamic Island at $599

February 16, 2026, 5:06 AM EST. Apple's budget iPhone, the 17e, is tipped for a February 19 launch. The device would bring MagSafe charging and the Dynamic Island to the $599 tier, a first for the price point. MagSafe has been available since 2020, but the 17e would offer faster charging and broad access to magnetic accessories. The pill-shaped cutout would replace the notch across the lineup, making the 17e the first budget iPhone with the Dynamic Island. Despite inflation and shortages, the price stays at $599. Some observers say Apple may trade short-term margins for ecosystem lock-in, while reallocating existing display panels rather than retooling production.

ByteDance vows to curb AI video tool after Disney threat

February 16, 2026, 5:00 AM EST. ByteDance says it will restrain its AI video tool Seedance 2.0 amid a pushback from Hollywood after Disney sent a cease-and-desist over what it calls a pirated library of Marvel and Star Wars characters. Axios reported the letter; ByteDance told the BBC it respects IP rights and is strengthening safeguards to curb unauthorized use of intellectual property and likeness by users. Seedance 2.0, launched last week, can turn a short text prompt into a video; critics say it risks copyright infringement. The Hollywood trade group MPA and SAG-AFTRA have criticized Seedance; studios have sought licensing frameworks as AI advances. Disney previously invested in OpenAI and has a licensing deal for Sora that uses some Disney characters.

SpaceX Falcon 9 launch creates glowing spiral visible across Victor Valley

February 16, 2026, 4:40 AM EST. SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Saturday, launching a Starlink mission to place internet satellites into low-Earth orbit. In the minutes after liftoff, observers across the Southern California region reported a glowing streak followed by a spiraling plume that lingered in the twilight sky. The so-called space jellyfish forms when exhaust expands and cools at high altitude, reflecting sunlight after sunset. Photos from residents in Victorville, Hesperia and Apple Valley circulated on social media as the plume drifted overhead. SpaceX routinely uses Vandenberg for Falcon 9 flights to support Starlink's global high-speed internet plan. Officials did not report injuries or delays. Photographer Hugo Valdez of VVNG.com documented the spectacle.

SpaceX email to Elon Musk bounced with 550 Address rejected, illustrating infrastructure-level blocking

February 16, 2026, 4:36 AM EST. An email to Elon Musk allegedly from Jeffrey Epstein was rejected by SpaceX's mail server, which returned a 550 Address rejected code. The SMTP-level rejection means the message never reached the recipient, a common form of infrastructure blocking used to deter spam and threats. SpaceX has not commented on the incident. The episode underscores how large tech firms shield high-profile executives by filtering inbound messages at the network layer, rather than relying on human screening alone. It also highlights the gap between public scrutiny of communications and the practical tools companies deploy to manage risk. Experts say such blocks are routine, but they can complicate legitimate outreach in rare cases.

Amazon cuts Apple Watch 11 to $299 in Presidents' Day sale

February 16, 2026, 4:34 AM EST. Amazon is discounting the Apple Watch 11 (GPS, 42mm) to $299 from $399 in a Presidents' Day promotion. The price cut appears to be time-bound. The series is favored by Creative Bloq staff, who cite strong battery life and fast charging. Reviewers note health-tracking features that encourage activity and the ability to receive text and WhatsApp messages on the wrist, reducing phone checks. If the Watch 11 isn't the right fit, the post points to global deals and other Apple Watch models.

SpaceX launches Starlink 6-103 mission from Cape Canaveral, Florida

February 16, 2026, 4:32 AM EST. SpaceX launched the Starlink 6-103 mission from Cape Canaveral, Florida, advancing the company's satellite broadband constellation. The operation underscores SpaceX's ongoing cadence of Starlink missions designed to expand global internet coverage. SpaceX officials said the launch proceeded as planned, though payload specifics were not immediately disclosed. The mission contributes to a broader push to deliver high-speed connectivity to underserved regions, a central objective of the Starlink program.

Automotive Thermal Management Systems Market to Reach USD 97.0 Billion by 2033 on EV Battery Cooling Advances

February 16, 2026, 4:28 AM EST. Market Minds Advisory says the automotive thermal management systems market is worth USD 71.7 billion in 2026 and is forecast to reach USD 97.0 billion by 2033, a CAGR of 4.4%. Demand grows with electrification, tighter emission rules, and the push for integrated heat pump systems and smart control software. The industry is moving from traditional pumps and radiators toward sensor-rich thermal modules that manage heat for batteries, power electronics, and cabin comfort. Regulators across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia-Pacific push for energy efficiency. OEMs are bringing thermal software design in-house. APAC, led by China and India, is an investment hotspot for localized EV supply chains. Immersion cooling for ultra-fast charging is opening new, higher-margin segments for specialized components. A shift from PTC heaters (positive temperature coefficient) to heat pumps is becoming standard to preserve winter range.

US computer science enrollments dip as AI-focused programs expand

February 16, 2026, 4:12 AM EST. UC campuses saw computer science enrollment fall 6% system-wide this year, following a 3% dip in 2024, even as national college enrollment nudged higher. UC San Diego was the lone UC campus to add a dedicated AI major this fall. The slide in traditional CS interest comes as U.S. universities rush to expand AI programs, while demand for AI literacy grows. MIT reports an AI and decision-making major is among the largest on campus; the University of South Florida opened an AI and cybersecurity college with more than 3,000 students; Buffalo launched an AI and Society department. In China, AI literacy is framed as essential infrastructure, a contrast to mixed reactions among U.S. faculty, and parent guidance shifts toward engineering paths seen as more resilient to automation.

Nintendo Switch 2 adds Virtual Boy accessories and VR support for Switch titles

February 16, 2026, 3:58 AM EST. Nintendo will release two VR headsets for the Virtual Boy lineup on Nintendo Switch Online, with launch on February 17. The pair includes a full-size Virtual Boy replica and a cardboard wearable headset. They will work with Virtual Boy games and with existing Switch games that include VR modes. As part of its Labo initiative, Nintendo has already supported cardboard VR headsets. VR options will be added to four titles-Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Super Mario Odyssey, and Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker-and the Breath of the Wild Switch 2 edition reportedly retains VR. The main accessory uses the classic red VR filter but can be removed for full color; the cardboard option remains a wearable headset.

5 MagSafe Gadgets You'll Use Every Day

February 16, 2026, 3:56 AM EST. Apple's MagSafe approach isn't just about easier charging. The system unlocks daily-use accessories that cling to the back of iPhones and certain Google Pixel devices. The article highlights top picks that blend function with style. Belkin's 3-in-1 charging station streams power to iPhone, AirPods and Apple Watch with Qi2 25W charging and a quiet cooling fan, while a compact foldable stand suits travel. Ku Xiu also offers a 3-in-1 foldable dock. For on-the-go, the UGREEN MagFlow 10,000mAh power bank keeps devices topped up as you move. The best MagSafe gadgets become part of everyday life-simplifying charging, mounting in a car or keeping a slim wallet attached for travel.

Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement Creative Director Shutaro Ida Dies at 52

February 16, 2026, 3:44 AM EST. Shutaro Ida, creative director behind Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, has died at 52 after a roughly 18-month battle with cancer, ArtPlay said. The studio noted Ida led development and that the project remains in its final stages as it moves toward completion. Co-founder Koji Igarashi offered a tribute, saying Ida contributed significantly to gaming and that his promise and vision will be carried forward. Ida also directed Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night and contributed to Castlevania titles and Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. The company said funeral arrangements were private and asked fans not to send condolences or gifts.

Brazil approves China's SpaceSail satellite internet constellation

February 16, 2026, 3:40 AM EST. Brazil's telecom regulator Anatel authorized China's SpaceSail satellite internet constellation to operate in the country through July 31, 2031. The agency requires SpaceSail to begin service within two years from the act's publication. The initial authorization covers up to 324 satellites, with operations to start only after at least 10 percent are in orbit. The decision marks a milestone for the planned network in Brazil, which aims to expand broadband reach while aligning with spectrum and safety rules.

Samsung prioritizes Z Fold 8 as centerpiece of 2026 foldable strategy

February 16, 2026, 3:34 AM EST. Book-style foldables have moved from novelty to mainstream, delivering larger displays and easier multitasking. Samsung has led the pivot, now shipping more Galaxy Z Fold units than Z Flip models as a strategic priority. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 features a wider, near-square internal display to improve usability, plus enhanced multitasking and better durability for power users. Samsung projects about 3.5 million units worldwide, underscoring the goal of broader adoption. Advances in foldable display tech include a creaseless approach that reduces crease visibility by about 20%, boosting usability. Apple is reportedly preparing a distinct entry in 2026 with its own take on the form. A Techtics video provides background on the trend.

Solid-state batteries edge closer to US roads as Karma plans first mass-produced model

February 16, 2026, 3:32 AM EST. Solid-state batteries, which use a solid electrolyte instead of a gel, promise higher energy density and better thermal stability than today's lithium-ion packs. The technology path is led in the United States by Karma Automotive, which in February 2026 announced plans to ship the first mass-production vehicle powered by solid-state batteries equipped with Factorial FEST SSBs. Karma is the only American ultra-luxury maker with a varied lineup; the Kaveya super coupe is slated to be the first recipient, with a 2027 debut. Current EVs rely on LFP, NMC, and NCA chemistries. The quasi-solid-state (quasi-SSB) design emphasizes thermal stability and high energy density, aiming to bridge the gap to wider adoption on US roads.

Google under scrutiny over health disclaimers in AI Overviews

February 16, 2026, 3:30 AM EST. Google is facing questions over how its AI Overviews present medical advice. The company says the summaries should prompt users to seek professional help rather than rely on AI alone. The Guardian, however, found no upfront health warning when medical guidance first appears. Disclaimers only show after users click Show more, and then sit at the bottom in a lighter font: This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or a diagnosis, consult a professional. AI responses may include mistakes. Google did not deny the omission. Experts warn that missing upfront disclaimers heighten risk from AI errors and misinterpretation, calling for clearer, prominent notices from researchers at MIT and Queen Mary University of London.

TSMC Eyes $3 Trillion Club as AI and Data-Center Demand Grows

February 16, 2026, 3:28 AM EST. TSMC, the world's largest contract chipmaker, is viewed as the next to join the $3 trillion club behind Nvidia, Apple, and Alphabet. With a dominant 71% share of the global foundry market and producing more than 90% of the most advanced semiconductors, TSMC is positioned to capitalize on AI and data-center expansion. In the latest quarter, revenue reached $33.7 billion, up 26% year over year, and EPS rose to $3.14. Gross margin climbed to 59.9%, and operating margin to 50.8%, underscoring scale benefits. Management guided Q1 revenue around $35.2 billion, about 38% higher year over year. With a current market cap near $1.9 trillion, bulls say demand for leading-edge chips could push TSMC toward the coveted club.

Poll shows 96% not using Apple Intelligence, raising questions for Tim Cook

February 16, 2026, 3:22 AM EST. A reader poll found 96% of respondents said they don't use Apple Intelligence, with only 4% saying they do. The result undercuts hype around AI across devices and suggests Apple isn't meeting expectations for many users. The author notes personal experiences show limited value from Apple Intelligence compared with Android features, and occasional forays into Google Gemini. Critics argue Apple's AI strategy is unclear, while some support a path forward via a Gemini partnership and improvements to Siri. Rumors that iOS 27 could be delayed add to concerns about Apple's AI timing. In a fast-moving field, the piece frames poll data, hands-on impressions, and market context to gauge whether Apple can close the AI gap or risk falling further behind.

NPR host David Greene sues Google over NotebookLM voice

February 16, 2026, 3:20 AM EST. David Greene, longtime NPR host, filed a lawsuit against Google over NotebookLM, alleging the tool's male AI voice imitates his cadence, intonation, and filler words. Greene says friends and colleagues alerted him the voice resembles his speaking style. Google says the voice in NotebookLM's Audio Overviews is not Greene's and is based on a paid professional actor. The case underscores tensions around synthetic voices and impersonation in AI tools. The Washington Post reported the complaint; Greene also hosts KCRW's Left, Right, & Center. OpenAI's handling of Scarlett Johansson's complaint about a ChatGPT voice is cited as a precedent in the broader debate.

Microsoft fixes Windows 11 boot bug tied to failed updates in February 2026 security rollup

February 16, 2026, 3:18 AM EST. Microsoft has fixed a Windows 11 boot fault that affected some commercial devices after security updates. The problem produced an UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME error or a black screen following the January 13, 2026 update KB5074109 or later, with the issue traced to failed December 2025 updates on devices running versions 25H2 and 24H2. A private enterprise advisory seen by Susan Bradley of Ask Woody said the bug is fully resolved in the February 10, 2026 security update KB5077181 and subsequent patches. An initial remediation in the optional preview KB5074105 on January 29 helped limit spread. Devices already in an unbootable state may require manual remediation; enterprises should contact Microsoft Support for Business for assistance. Public notices about the advisory were not issued.

PGYTECH RetroVa brings 235mm telephoto, microSD storage, and tactile grip to iPhone 16/17 Pro

February 16, 2026, 3:16 AM EST. PGYTECH's RetroVa Vintage Imaging Kit for the iPhone 16 and 17 Pro adds a camera-style grip with tactile controls, a 13-element optical telephoto system delivering a 235mm equivalent focal length, and microSD storage. The 2% distortion figure accompanies a design built from premium ED glass, yielding sharp detail and natural bokeh without heavy digital zoom. The grip redefines shooting: a shutter release with half-press focus, physical dials for ISO, white balance, and exposure, plus a zoom lever and a multi-function button for power and Bluetooth pairing. Weighing 63-65.4 g, it's wrapped in black leather. The kit's companion app adds film-style renderings straight out of camera. Price: $72 (from $89.95, 20% off); stock: 192 of 300 remain; the campaign has raised over $157,000. PGYTECH also makes telephoto extenders for Vivo and Oppo.

Alphabet's $175-$185B AI capex signals upside for Nvidia, Broadcom

February 16, 2026, 3:12 AM EST. Alphabet told investors it expects capital expenditures of $175 billion to $185 billion in 2026, signaling another wave of AI investment. The spending should benefit Nvidia and Broadcom, among others. Alphabet uses its TPUs developed with Broadcom for internal tasks such as Gemini and Google DeepMind, and for external workloads on Google Cloud. External workloads that run on Nvidia GPUs could move onto other clouds, keeping Nvidia central to Alphabet's AI plans while Broadcom benefits from internal-capacity spending. The note underscores that the AI spending cycle is in its early innings. Alphabet's fourth-quarter revenue rose 18% year over year, with analysts projecting a similar pace for Q1. The exact beneficiaries remain uncertain, but Nvidia and Broadcom appear well positioned.

Trump trade adviser urges AI firms to internalize data center costs

February 16, 2026, 3:10 AM EST. Washington – A Trump administration trade adviser argues that AI firms should internalize the cost of their data centers, saying energy use and infrastructure should be reflected in pricing rather than borne by taxpayers or third parties. The remarks frame a broader policy debate on who pays for digital infrastructure as AI tools expand across industries. The adviser offered no formal policy blueprint, but described the stance as a matter of national competitiveness and fair competition. Commentators caution the idea could raise barriers for startups and cloud providers, depending on how any policy is designed and implemented. The exchange underscores tensions over tech policy, energy costs, and the economics of AI deployment.

China unveils GrowHR, shape-shifting humanoid robot that can shrink and crawl through tight spaces

February 16, 2026, 3:08 AM EST. Beating the hard-metal norm, GrowHR is a soft, shape-shifting humanoid robot developed at the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) in Shenzhen. A paper published in Science Advances in January 2026 describes a device that can shrink to 36% of its height and 61% of its width to crawl through tight gaps. At just under 4.5 feet tall and weighing under 10 pounds, the robot emphasizes mobility and a non-threatening, smile-like face. The team cites bone structure (hollow but strong) as the basis for a lighter frame than rivals such as Unitree G1 and comparable work from Tesla's Optimus. The work signals Chinese humanoids entering the consumer market ahead of some Western brands.

Samsung teases Privacy Display for Galaxy S26 to curb shoulder surfing

February 16, 2026, 3:00 AM EST. Samsung releases a Galaxy S26 teaser video highlighting Privacy Display, a hardware-driven feature that blocks shoulder surfers. The clip shows a user flipping a switch to limit what bystanders can read, with the screen relying on Samsung Display's Flex Magic Pixel tech to adjust viewing angles. Samsung says the feature can be customized for specific apps, content types, and screen areas such as notification popups or PIN entries. The company has set a February 25 launch date for the series, and leaks point to the S26 Ultra getting the tech. Unlike privacy screen protectors, this approach preserves brightness and image quality.

Honor Magic V6 spotted in live images ahead of MWC26 premiere

February 16, 2026, 2:54 AM EST. Live images of the Honor Magic V6 have surfaced ahead of its world premiere at the MWC 2026 event. Weibo tipsters posted shots featuring Hong Kong actor Nicholas Tse with the slim foldable, which sports an octagonal rear camera bump and a four-lens square module. The rim around the camera appears silver, the front shows a tiny punch-hole, and the frame hints at metal edges and a refined folding hinge. Antenna lines mirror those on the Magic 8 Pro. The device is touted as ultra-thin, but no internal specs are confirmed. The images suggest a premium color variant for consumers. Honor is set to officially unveil the foldable at MWC 2026, continuing its push in the folding-phone segment.

Vietnam grants Starlink satellite internet license; four gateways, up to 600,000 terminals

February 16, 2026, 2:46 AM EST. Vietnam has granted a license to Elon Musk's Starlink to operate satellite internet services, the government said. In Hanoi, the Radio Frequency Management Authority said the local unit Starlink Services Vietnam Co. can initially deploy four gateway stations and up to 600,000 terminal devices. The license requires Starlink to ensure no interference with existing radio communication networks, the authority announced on Saturday.

Apple valuation signals slight overvaluation despite AI growth hopes

February 16, 2026, 2:36 AM EST. Apple's stock trades at $255.78 after a pullback, with a mixed week and solid multi-year gains. Our framework scores AAPL 1/6 on undervaluation. A two-stage Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model places intrinsic value at about $242.41 per share, suggesting the shares are roughly 5.5% overvalued at current levels, within a typical margin of error. The calculation uses trailing free cash flow of about $124.1 billion and projected FCF near $193.0 billion by 2030. The result comes amid investor focus on product cycles, capital returns and AI growth hopes, plus broader tech-market conditions. While the DCF reading points to fair value, sentiment can swing quickly on evolving expectations. Verdict: Apple appears fairly valued for now, but risk hinges on growth prospects and AI-driven demand.

Samsung's Galaxy S26 to ship One UI 8.5; rollout to older Galaxy devices under review

February 16, 2026, 2:30 AM EST. Samsung is set to launch the Galaxy S26 on February 25 and ship One UI 8.5 out of the box. The bigger question is whether the company will publish a timeline for expanding the update to older Galaxy devices. Since December 2025, Samsung has tested One UI 8.5 starting with the S25 series, with beta updates showing graphical refinements and more responsive controls. The beta program remains open; beta 4 has been released and beta 5 is on the schedule, suggesting the rollout could stretch through February. Internal tests have touched the S24, S23, foldables and mid-range models. A formal rollout roadmap for existing devices may appear at Unpacked, though past events have shown updates arriving weeks after announcements. A gradual expansion to older flagships remains possible.

UK to crack down on AI chatbots, push for under-16 social media ban and digital-safety powers

February 16, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a crackdown on AI chatbots deemed to endanger children and said the government would seek powers to regulate minors' internet access. The plan targets 'vile and illegal content created by AI' and would speed action on findings from a public consultation considering an Australia-style ban on social media for users under 16. The measures would require all AI chatbot providers to follow digital safety laws, including a ban on creating sexualised images without consent. The proposal would be introduced as an amendment to existing crime and child-protection legislation. The March-starting consultation will also probe a minimum age for social media and a ban on VPNs to access pornography. Critics warn of privacy and free-speech trade-offs.

Snowflake CEO warns software could become a 'dumb data pipe' to AI

February 16, 2026, 2:20 AM EST. Snowflake chief executive Frank Slootman warned that software could become a dumb data pipe feeding AI workloads unless data platforms evolve. The remark, reflecting debate over how to organize, catalog and govern data, underscores a shift from traditional apps to data-centric architectures that serve AI. In comments circulated by media outlets, Slootman argued that without robust data tooling, companies risk turning valuable data into passive streams rather than actionable assets. He did not outline specific product changes, but his point reinforces Snowflake's emphasis on data governance, secure sharing and scalable data infrastructure as a foundation for AI adoption.

Galaxy S26 Ultra's rumored wider aperture could be its biggest camera upgrade

February 16, 2026, 1:58 AM EST. A reviewer tracking Galaxy S26 Ultra rumors says a wider aperture could be the phone's biggest camera upgrade. The shift from the S25 Ultra's f/1.7 to a rumored f/1.4 would let the sensor gather more light, improving low-light performance even with the same 200MP main sensor. In hands-on tests of the S25 Ultra against rivals like the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Pixel 10 Pro XL, brighter shadows and clearer detail favored Apple in dim conditions. A faster shutter speed from the larger aperture could yield crisper, blur-free action shots. The change would also feed into AI-assisted enhancements by providing cleaner input data. Samsung has not confirmed specifications; the impact depends on optics, processing, and software.

P4T0M4N wins back-to-back Pokémon Go EUIC title

February 16, 2026, 1:22 AM EST. Marín "P4T0M4N" Torres defeated Colin "CoIin6ix" Spa in a best-of-five final to win the Pokémon Go European International Championship, earning a spot at the World Championships in San Francisco. Spa seized a 2-0 lead, but Torres fought back to force a reset by taking Games 3 and 4. In the rematch, Spa won Games 1 and 3, yet Torres claimed Games 2 and 4, then closed out with Game 5. Spa reached the Grand Final after a 3-0 win over French player Hikhami in Winner's Finals. P4T0M4N advanced via the Loser's Bracket. The final pair ran largely similar teams, save for Hikhami's Lickilicky and Torres's Dunsparce. EUIC drew the largest attendance in its history, underscoring Pokémon Go's competitive rise.

Vietnam approves SpaceX Starlink for up to 600,000 connections in first phase

February 16, 2026, 1:18 AM EST. Vietnam has granted SpaceX Starlink a full license to operate fixed and mobile satellite internet, allowing up to 600,000 connections in its first phase. The licenses from the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Radio Frequency Department cover transmission and reception infrastructure and radio frequencies, with oversight by local agencies. Starlink previously secured a pilot license in 2025. The rollout will start with four gateway stations and up to 600,000 user terminals, aiming to reach remote and mountainous areas where fiber and mobile networks are sparse. Officials describe satellite internet as a key backup during storms and floods. SpaceX aims for global coverage with a growing constellation; in Vietnam the impact on the domestic telecom market is expected to be limited due to small gaps.

Smartphones eclipse dedicated webcams as the standard for video quality

February 16, 2026, 1:10 AM EST. As cameras evolve, the humble webcam has seen little real progress, while smartphones now offer superior video quality. Critics argue many so-called 4K webcams are 2MP/1080p sensors upscaled by software to fake higher resolution. The typical smartphone outperforms budget webcams, with the Pixel 6 Pro capable of 4K60 and older devices still serving as strong backups; even newer options like the Razr Kiyo 2 illustrate the gap between built-in cameras and external webcams. A modern handset can be turned into a webcam with simple setup, reducing the need to buy a dedicated device. In short, the smartphone is the best webcam you own.

Shanghai's AI Spring Festival fuels large-model push, from Model Speed Space to new platforms

February 16, 2026, 1:08 AM EST. On the eve of the Spring Festival, Shanghai's Model Speed Space unveiled new products as the city readies for a peak season of large models. A STAR Market Daily report by Huang Xinqi says 2026's festival is a marquee window for major model firms, with local infrastructure players deploying safeguards for uninterrupted services. Some ventures released products ahead of the holidays to capture traffic. In festive scenes at the Nine-Curve Bridge in Yuyuan Garden, Zhiyuan Lingxi X2, Yuanzheng A2, and robotic dogs joined blessing rituals for visitors. MiniMax launched its M2.5, touting >100 TPS, low token costs, and potential annual savings that could reshape agent deployment. Jiding ShuChuang unveiled V2Fun, an AI 3D creation platform covering image generation, modeling, and animation.

EV BTMS Market to Reach $8.4B by 2031, 14.6% CAGR – Allied Market Research

February 16, 2026, 1:00 AM EST. An Allied Market Research forecast puts the electric vehicle battery thermal management system (BTMS) market at $2.3 billion in 2021 and $8.4 billion by 2031, a 14.6% CAGR from 2022-2031. The report, Electric Vehicle Battery Thermal Management System Market Size, Share, Competitive Landscape and Trend Analysis, notes Asia-Pacific leads by revenue, with China dominant in 2021 and India seen as a high-growth frontier. Drivers include fast charging adoption and advances in lithium-ion batteries; manufacturing growth in China, India, Brazil and South Africa compounds demand. COVID-19 disrupted supply chains, creating uncertainty. By technology, air cooling and heating led 2021 revenue, reflecting cost-effectiveness across vehicle types. Segments cover technology, propulsion, vehicle type, and region.

Scalable spintronic synapses enable robust analog in-memory computing

February 16, 2026, 12:58 AM EST. The paper proposes a multi-level spintronic device built on a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) free layer and a granular magnetic nanostructure to produce near-continuous resistive states. Cross-layer simulations indicate superior scalability and reduced variability versus other multi-level memristive schemes. System-level tests show that implementing 2-bit-per-cell MRAM in crossbar arrays enables significant gains in hardware efficiency for in-memory computing while maintaining inference accuracy. The approach supports high-density, non-volatile weight storage and explores matrix-vector multiplications (MVM) in a weight-stationary crossbar under Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL). By distributing energy barriers among individual grains, the scheme achieves robust multi-bit storage with manageable variability-promising for neuromorphic hardware that bridges data-intensive AI and energy efficiency.

Hollywood groups condemn ByteDance's Seedance 2.0 over copyright concerns

February 16, 2026, 12:52 AM EST. Hollywood groups condemned ByteDance's Seedance 2.0 as infringing copyright by using actors' likenesses without permission. The China-only AI video generator lets users generate high-quality clips from text prompts and has drawn swift backlash from the film and TV industry. The Motion Picture Association said Seedance 2.0 'has engaged in unauthorized use of U.S. copyrighted works on a massive scale' and urged ByteDance to cease infringing activity. Screenwriter Rhett Reese, writer of Deadpool, commented on social media that the development could threaten the industry. The flap focuses on whether AI outputs reproduce protected performances without consent, a dispute that could influence future rules for AI tools and creator rights as the technology expands.

Bloodstained director Shutaro Iida dies at 52 as sequel advances to final stages

February 16, 2026, 12:42 AM EST. Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night director Shutaro Iida died of cancer at 52, ArtPlay said. The studio noted his pivotal role in the forthcoming Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement, now in its final stages under co-founder Koji Igarashi. Igarashi pledged that the team will carry forward Iida's legacy and vision to ensure the game reflects his contribution. The company asked fans not to send condolence visits, gifts, or floral tributes, and said the funeral was held with close family. Development of Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement remains near completion, with the team determined to deliver a title worthy of Iida's name and leadership.

Ariane 6's Ariane 64 adds heavy-lift capacity, opens Amazon Leo constellation deployment

February 16, 2026, 12:34 AM EST. The European Space Agency, Arianespace and ArianeGroup launched VA267 from Kourou, testing the Ariane 64 configuration with four strap-on boosters. The new heavy-lift version extends payload to about 21,650 kg to LEO and 11,500 kg to GSO, up from the two-booster Ariane 62's 10,350 kg to LEO and 4,500 kg to GSO. The mission carried 32 satellites for Amazon's Leo constellation, the first European launcher to service a commercial constellation and the first of 18 missions. The P120C booster, a carbon-fibre design with 143.6 metric tons of propellant, powers the rocket. Arianespace CEO David Cavaillolès said the flight marks a milestone for Europe's heavy-lift capability and for Amazon Leo deployment, as Europe becomes a trusted launch partner.

Oxide Computer raises $200 million Series C for on-premises cloud platform

February 16, 2026, 12:18 AM EST. Oxide Computer Company, the Emeryville-based maker of rack-scale systems that deliver cloud-like infrastructure in customers' data centers, has closed a $200 million Series C. The round follows a recent $100 million Series B and strengthens the company's balance sheet to operate as an independent, long-term business. Oxide says the funding will support scaling deployments, expanding engineering, and meeting growing enterprise demand for an on-premises cloud with modern architecture and operational simplicity. Leadership says the capital reduces financing uncertainty and sharpens execution. Co-founders Bryan Cantrill and Steve Tuck stress independence, customer focus, and a path to changing computing, while acknowledging the funding landscape candidly.

China tests aluminium-based EV battery at -25°C with 92% efficiency, 20-minute fast charge

February 16, 2026, 12:16 AM EST. A Chinese Academy of Sciences research team field-tested an aluminium-based wide-temperature lithium-ion battery in Heilongjiang. At -25°C, the battery delivered over 92% discharge efficiency in real-world city driving. Officials said it reached about 90% state of charge (SOC) in roughly 20 minutes during low-temperature fast charging. The battery uses an alloy-modified aluminium negative electrode to widen the operating temperature range, with lab data citing stability from -70°C to +80°C. This marks the first installation of this battery type in a production EV model for extreme-cold evaluation, including fast-charge testing. The system relies on a tuned thermal management setup to dissipate heat during subzero charging without extra insulation.