Technology News 17.02.2026

TAG Heuer's Connected Calibre E5 tested as a strong running partner

February 17, 2026, 8:04 PM EST. TAG Heuer's fifth-generation Connected watch, the Connected Calibre E5, blends luxury design with running tech. The reviewer notes a substantial 45 mm titanium case and a bright AMOLED display that renders tiny details clearly. In runs around Boston's Charles River Esplanade, the watch stayed secure, comfortable, and sweat-resistant-proving it can be worn all day and during workouts. The device's interchangeable strap system-rubber to stainless steel-works without engineering know-how. At the core, TAG Heuer OS packages biometric trackers and supports voice calls and Siri access, turning the watch into a practical companion for workouts and daily wear. The experience marries aesthetics with fitness data without overwhelming the user.

Viral Tesla FSD clip directing toward lake sparks fresh safety debate

February 17, 2026, 8:00 PM EST. A viral clip shows a Tesla on Full Self-Driving (FSD) steering toward a lake, prompting renewed questions about autonomous safety. The owner, Daniel Milligan, posted the night-time video on X, with FSD version 14.2.2.4 (build 2025.45.9.1). The car appeared to approach a boat ramp as it accelerated toward the water at about 10 mph; Milligan had to brake and take control after the "self-driving" indicator vanished. The post drew millions of views and spurred critics to revisit claims about FSD approaching unsupervised operation. No evidence the car entered the water. The incident spotlights edge-case failures for vision-only systems, contrasted with rivals like Waymo that rely on a multi-sensor suite (lidar, radar, cameras). Critics and supporters threaded the discussion, with online figures amplifying the clip.

Lenovo expands AI PCs, edge computing and trust at CES 2026

February 17, 2026, 7:56 PM EST. Lenovo stages a wide-ranging CES 2026 showcase, blurring consumer and enterprise lines with an end-to-end AI ecosystem. The company touts AI PCs, ThinkSystem servers, wearables, and a new Qira intelligent agent that orchestrates tools across devices, all part of a broader Lenovo portfolio from phones to storage. Milo Speranzo, CMO for Lenovo North America, explains why the Sphere venue drew 14,000 people and how edge computing makes privacy a purchase driver, enabling AI on devices without constant internet. The interview also covers Lenovo's FIFA World Cup analytics partnership and a leadership mantra for 2026: learn, iterate, be a goldfish, as Lenovo aims to accelerate a refreshed hardware cycle built around privacy-forward AI at the edge.

Meta patent on AI that posts as deceased users; company says no plan to pursue

February 17, 2026, 7:52 PM EST. Meta's 2023 patent describes training a large language model (LLM) to simulate a deceased user's social-media activity, enabling ongoing posts in their voice after death to keep accounts active. The patent, with CTO Andrew Bosworth listed as the main author, envisions a digital clone that could like, comment, and even DM others. Meta has since said it has no plans to move forward with the concept. The disclosure sits amid a broader wave of AI-driven grief tech and post-death digital personas, and after CEO Mark Zuckerberg hinted in interviews that avatars could take over accounts in certain cases. The patent illustrates how firms are testing extreme uses of LLMs, while weighing identity, privacy and lasting digital impact.

DJI vacuum hack shows broad fleet access after weak authentication

February 17, 2026, 7:50 PM EST. An amateur coder used Claude Code from Anthropic to reverse-engineer the DJI Romo vacuum app and drive a device with a PS5 controller. The effort exposed a flaw in DJI's authentication: once a user extracted a single authentication token, they could access data streams from every vacuum in the fleet. The devices rely on the MQTT protocol to talk to company servers and the mobile app, but the auth system wasn't bound to individual devices. The tester saw floor plans and, in some cases, camera feeds from others thousands of miles away. DJI later closed the main parts of the loophole, but vulnerabilities remain, including potential override of the PIN for camera access. The episode underscores how AI-assisted coding can outpace developers' guardrails.

tvOS 26.4 beta removes iTunes Movies and TV Shows apps from Apple TV 4K

February 17, 2026, 7:46 PM EST. tvOS 26.4 beta 1 arrives, confirming Apple's move to retire the standalone iTunes Movies and TV Shows apps on Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD. Apple has signaled the change by warning iTunes Store users that the Wish List feature will be discontinued. The company already directs purchases through the TV app, with the Wish List to be migrated to Watchlist inside iOS. In tvOS 26.4, the legacy apps disappear from Apple TV, while iOS 26.4 beta 1 still shows the Wish List. The change aligns with years of Apple pushing users toward the TV app for owned content, and it was reported by Aaron Perris. The functionality remains largely in the TV app; access to old Wish List items on Apple TV is removed for now.

Wearables monitor heart health, but data may be sold, doctors warn

February 17, 2026, 7:44 PM EST. Smartwatches and rings such as Apple Watch, Whoop and Oura track sleep, recovery, resting heart rate and even EKG data. They can raise alerts for atrial fibrillation, and heart rate variability (HRV) is a marker of stress. Doctors say these tools can help monitor health, but users should understand what is measured and how to use the data with professional care. Privacy matters: tech companies may sell your data, and over-reliance on wearables can mislead. Use these devices as a window into your heart health, not a replacement for medical advice. Small lifestyle changes and stress management can improve outcomes during American Heart Month and beyond.

One UI 9 rollout in focus as Android 17 beta progresses across Galaxy lineup

February 17, 2026, 7:42 PM EST. Samsung is preparing for One UI 9, with a public beta possibly this May and a July 2026 rollout tied to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8. Internal testing shows early builds for the Galaxy S26 and the S25/S24 lines, plus the Z Fold 7 and Flip 7. The A56/A36 and the Tab S10/S11 are also in play for updates toward late 2026. The Galaxy S23 may receive One UI 9 as its final major OS upgrade. Older models like the S22 and Z Fold 4 are expected to stay on One UI 8.5, missing Android 17's AI-driven browser tools and system-level resizability. Samsung has not officially confirmed eligibility; use the Samsung Members app for a roadmap.

DJI Pocket 4 hands-on video leaks as Malaysian retailer posts first real-world footage

February 17, 2026, 7:40 PM EST. DJI's Pocket 4 has surfaced in real-world footage after an official retailer in Kuala Lumpur posted a hands-on reel. DronesKaki Bukit Bintang, Fahrenheit 88, shared a 33-second Instagram video showing the Pocket 4 with its signature 3-axis gimbal, a built-in front-facing LED light, a 2-inch OLED flip-out screen, a joystick, and quick-access buttons. The clip, dated February 15, 2026, is described as the first outside-China hands-on and has fueled talk about release timing, specifications, and Malaysia availability for the compact camera-gimbal. Viewers ask if it records in 6K 30fps and what the exact video settings are. The retailer had earlier echoed leaked listings from another site, though details remain unconfirmed.

AI copilots become everyday infrastructure, reshaping schools and work

February 17, 2026, 7:36 PM EST. Artificial intelligence has moved from a browser novelty to essential infrastructure. In classrooms, teachers use AI to accelerate grading; in New Hampshire, students manipulate images; in Sweden, automation prompted a rethink of staffing. The report notes 84% of high school students now use AI for coursework and corporate spending on AI neared $1.8 trillion last year. Data centers and cloud compute carry growing environmental costs, underscoring the cloud's heft. The shift is human plus machine, operating within flawed institutions and imperfect data. Mundane uses-ambient scribing for clinicians, multilingual call centers-boost productivity but risk harms, such as deepfakes and hallucinated facts.

Nvidia, Meta expand AI chip pact with millions of Blackwell, Rubin GPUs

February 17, 2026, 7:32 PM EST. Nvidia and Meta expanded a multiyear, multigenerational pact to equip Meta with millions of Blackwell and Rubin GPUs, plus CPUs and networking gear for data-center AI workloads. Meta will use the hardware for training and running models, leveraging Nvidia's Cloud Partner program with operators like CoreWeave and Crusoe. Nvidia did not disclose a price. The deal also includes Meta's first large-scale Grace CPU-only servers and plans for Vera CPU-only systems in 2027, expanding beyond Intel in some workloads. Nvidia will provide Confidential Computing for private data processing in WhatsApp. The move comes as AI shares retreat; Meta stock is down about 3% year-to-date, while Nvidia and peers face demand doubts.

Apple set for colorful, low-cost MacBook at March 4 event, reports say

February 17, 2026, 7:30 PM EST. Apple is set to reveal new devices at its March 4 event in New York, London and Shanghai, after invites showed a logo built from colorful discs, triggering talk of a colorful, low-cost MacBook. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says a new aluminum-shell process could speed production and expand color options, with pink, silver and dark gray reportedly tested. The budget MacBook is expected to undercut the 13-inch MacBook Air with M4, which starts at $999, with pricing floated around $799, $699 or even $599. The device is said to run on the A18 Pro chip from iPhone 16 Pro models; Six Colors' Jason Snell notes it is faster than M1 in single-core tasks. If true, colors would make the laptop stand out among Macs and reflect a broader product line planned this year.

Google teases I/O 2026 with 'Make, Build, Unlock' puzzle to reveal date

February 17, 2026, 7:28 PM EST. Google is teasing I/O 2026 with a puzzle titled Make, Build, Unlock that promises to reveal the conference date. Players must 'Play through all builds to unlock the final bonus,' each using Gemini 3 and remixed in AI Studio. The challenge spans five builds: Hole in One, Nonogram, Word Wheel, Supersonic Bot and Stretchy Cat. Each uses Gemini 3 to tailor feedback, boards, level design, microphone mechanics and balance. The first game is a mini-golf round where aim and power matter, with an Android Bot obstacle. Community progress fuels the reveal; once enough players complete tasks, the date drops later in the day. Google ran a similar countdown last year, keeping I/O timing under wraps until the final moment.

Firmware-level Android backdoor found on tablets from multiple manufacturers, researchers say

February 17, 2026, 7:26 PM EST. Kaspersky researchers uncovered a firmware-embedded Android backdoor named Keenadu that quietly takes control of apps and harvests data. The malware appears to be injected during the firmware build, not after devices reach users, and loads into every app at launch via a multi-stage loader. It targets the Zygote process to enable remote control, with payloads that can redirect searches, track app installs for profit, and interact with ads. Investigations traced at least one infection path to Alldocube iPlay 50 mini Pro firmware; many versions remained infected even after vendor advisories. The findings point to a supply-chain compromise, where a malicious dependency slipped into source code while firmware images were built. Vendors are being notified; users should apply updates promptly and consider not using affected devices. Some system apps can be disabled or replaced rather than removed.

Meta expands Nvidia deal to deploy millions of AI chips and standalone CPUs

February 17, 2026, 7:22 PM EST. Meta and Nvidia broaden their partnership to deploy millions of chips in Meta's AI data centers, including Nvidia's new standalone Grace CPUs and next-generation Vera Rubin rack-scale systems, plus networking gear and security features for WhatsApp AI features. Meta has used Nvidia GPUs for more than a decade, but the deal expands CPU-GPU integration, with Grace CPUs deployed standalone for inference workloads alongside Vera Rubin racks. Financial terms were not disclosed. Analysts peg the deal in the tens of billions, tying to Meta's plan to spend hundreds of billions on data-center AI infrastructure. The next-generation Vera CPUs are expected in 2027. Meta also relies on in-house silicon and other vendors, including AMD.

Turning off smartphone internet linked to happier, less stressed mood, study finds

February 17, 2026, 7:18 PM EST. Researchers asked 467 participants to disable mobile internet for two weeks using an app. Only 25% fully complied, yet most reported benefits. The experiment tracked well-being, attention, and mental health, with 91% noting at least one positive outcome-even among partial compliers. A separate November 2025 study found that a one-week social media detox reduced anxiety by 16.1%, depression by 24.8%, and insomnia by 14.5%. The approach removes the internet's pull while keeping the device functional, aiming to curb dopamine-driven habits tied to scrolling and notifications. People can try a day, a week, or longer; researchers say even imperfect attempts create clearer boundaries on technology use and may boost happiness.

Nvidia lands multibillion-dollar Meta deal to supply AI GPUs

February 17, 2026, 7:10 PM EST. Nvidia clinched a multibillion-dollar deal with Meta to supply GPUs for the company's AI workloads, the latest in a string of capacity deals as the chip maker widens its lead over rivals. The agreement follows Meta's push to scale its data centers for next-generation AI tasks, with Nvidia's accelerator chips expected to power inference and training workloads. People familiar with the matter say the deal underscores Nvidia's dominance in enterprise AI hardware, even as rivals such as AMD and Intel push new offerings. Meta aims to accelerate its metaverse and social AI initiatives, while Nvidia edges closer to securing durable demand across large cloud customers. The deal likely includes long-term supply commitments and pricing terms typical of mega contracts in the semiconductor industry.

Ford's $30K electric pickup starts a broader move with a universal platform

February 17, 2026, 6:54 PM EST. Ford is pursuing a global family of affordable EVs built on a new UEV platform that Ford says will cut parts by about 20%, reduce fasteners by 25%, and trim production workstations by 40% at the retooled Louisville plant. A skunkworks team in Long Beach (about 450 engineers) and a second group in Palo Alto (about 200) started from a blank slate to rethink design and manufacturing. The first product, a near-term all-electric midsize pickup due in 2027, will be followed by two- and three-row SUVs, a subcompact, a larger sedan, and a van, with timelines undisclosed. The EVs will use a lower-cost lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery built in Ford's own factory and aim for Level 3 autonomy on the road by 2028. Styling stays truck-like to preserve brand familiarity, despite aerodynamic tweaks.

Google Pixel Snap cases hit Amazon at 40% off, all-time lows

February 17, 2026, 6:52 PM EST. Amazon marks 40% off official Google Pixel Snap cases for Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro, including the XL model. The Pixel Snap Case for Pixel 10/Pro is now $29.99 with Prime shipping, while the Pixel Snap Case for Pixel 10 Pro XL is also $29.99, on Moonstone and Obsidian colorways. List price was $50, making this an all-time low across three models. The cases support wireless charging and magnetic accessories such as chargers, grips, and stands, with raised edges to protect the display and camera bar. Debuted last summer with Pixel 10, the cases use at least 42% recycled materials. Availability is limited and prices may change.

Huawei Watch GT 6 series gets February 2026 global feature update

February 17, 2026, 6:44 PM EST. Huawei pushed a February 2026 feature update to the Watch GT 6 series for global users after a China release. The package, about 50.51 MB, unlocks several enhancements. The update adds new options to mute notifications and set smart reminders for message management, and brings remote shutter support for compatible Android phones. It also shows the bike type on the outdoor cycling setup screen and enables automatic reconnection for accessories that disconnect during workouts. Optimizations improve distance accuracy for open water swimming, refine certain interfaces, and bolster system stability. The update is rolling out in batches; eligible models can install via the Huawei Health app, with a manual install option noted.

Apple releases first iOS 26.4 public beta with AI-powered Music updates

February 17, 2026, 6:38 PM EST. Apple has released the first public beta of iOS 26.4 for iPhone users. The update brings a suite of changes centered on Apple Music and messaging tests. Apple Music gains redesigned album and playlist views and a new AI-powered feature called Playlist Playground. The company also adds per-device Personal Hotspot data usage reports, and is testing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging with an enhanced video podcast experience in the pipeline. CarPlay progress continues, with improvements to video support, and iOS 26.4 enables Stolen Device Detection by default. Apple positions the beta as an early test for upcoming features rather than a final release. Users in the public beta program can install the build to try the changes and provide feedback.

Apple adds iPhone-style Charge Limit to Mac in macOS Tahoe 26.4 beta

February 17, 2026, 6:30 PM EST. Apple's macOS Tahoe 26.4 beta adds a Charge Limit control for Macs. A new slider lets users set a maximum charging level from 80% to 100%. The feature runs alongside Optimized Battery Charging, which delays charging to full until needed but does not enforce a fixed cap. Charge Limit is a hard cap, keeping the battery at the chosen level rather than reaching 100%. The setting appears in System Settings > Battery, by clicking the information icon next to "Charging." Apple rolled out a similar capability to iPhones with the iPhone 15 lineup in 2023. Supporters say the option could improve long-term battery health by avoiding frequent full charges.

Apple Experience March 4: What to Expect in NY, London and Shanghai

February 17, 2026, 6:28 PM EST. Apple invites journalists and content creators to a 'special Apple Experience' on March 4 in New York, London and Shanghai. The format stays hands-on and press-focused, not a full keynote. Industry chatter links the event to potential hardware unveilings, including a rumored lower-cost MacBook. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has noted the device's color tests and an iPhone-styled chip configuration. Other possibilities cited include an iPhone 17e with MagSafe, an A19 chip, a C1X 5G modem and an N1 Wi-Fi 7 chip. Additional bets cover an iPad Air with an M4 chip, an iPad 12 with an A18, and a MacBook Air with an M5. A handful of smart-home products and a new Apple TV or HomePod mini are uncertain. No live YouTube stream; attendees post hands-on impressions and press releases appear on Apple Newsroom.

Germany and Italy push domestic rockets as Europe shifts from foreign launches

February 17, 2026, 6:26 PM EST. Germany unveiled about €35 billion in space funding over five years, backing a push for homegrown rockets. The plan channels more than €95-100 million to startups Isar Aerospace, Rocket Factory Augsburg and HyImpulse; Isar has attracted roughly €550-€650 million from private investors. Italy followed with over $300 million in support for Avio, maker of Vega, to advance methane propulsion and other tech. Together with ESA programs, these steps signal a shift from relying on European or national launches abroad to domestic capability. Defense minister Boris Pistorius framed satellite networks as vital for national security, underscoring why governments seek independent launch capacity.

Google expands Quick Share AirDrop support to Pixel 9 lineup

February 17, 2026, 6:24 PM EST. Google is expanding Quick Share's AirDrop-style cross-platform sharing to the Pixel 9 family-9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL and 9 Pro Fold-after debuting on the Pixel 10. Android users can send files to Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac) by setting the Apple device to AirDrop > Everyone for 10 minutes, then selecting the target in Quick Share on Android and having them accept. The rollout is staged and rolling out 'over the coming weeks in phases.' A Quick Share Extension update is required on Pixel 9 via Settings > System services > Available Updates. Google emphasizes a direct, peer-to-peer connection with no server routing or content logging. The Pixel 9a remains excluded; later updates added the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

Irish interest in AI grows, new survey shows

February 17, 2026, 6:22 PM EST. A new survey shows rising public interest in AI across Ireland. Researchers say the findings point to curiosity about how artificial intelligence could affect work, education, and everyday life. The data released this week suggests businesses and schools may expand use of AI tools, while policymakers weigh privacy, ethics, and upskilling needs. Analysts caution that interest does not guarantee rapid adoption, but the survey signals a national conversation about the role of AI in the economy and society.

Google confirms Android's local file backup to Drive for downloaded files

February 17, 2026, 6:16 PM EST. Google has confirmed a new local file backup feature for Android that uses Google Drive to store copies of downloaded documents. The feature, spotted in the February Play System update and acknowledged by Google, targets files in the /Downloads folder, not the entire device. Backups are static copies: edits after backup won't sync back, and changes in Drive won't update the local file. Previously, Chrome-downloaded PDFs, tickets and invoices weren't backed up unless manually uploaded. Google appears to prioritise common document types, with compatibility varying by file format. Rollout will be server-side and gradual, not immediate, as part of Play System updates.

Low-noise JTWPA readout could accelerate 100-qubit quantum computer development

February 17, 2026, 6:14 PM EST. RIKEN researchers demonstrate a low-noise readout amplifier for superconducting qubits in a microwave circuit called a Josephson traveling-wave parametric amplifier (JTWPA). By removing lossy dielectric material and using a spiraled fishbone-like tapered waveguide, added noise falls to 0.68 quanta-0.18 above the quantum limit. The results, supported by simulations and a working device, suggest faster, high-signal readout at low energy for single-shot measurements of qubits. The design keeps fabrication accessible and could accelerate 100-qubit-scale superconducting quantum computers. Lead researchers Sandbo Chang and Yasunobu Nakamura say the work resolves a long-standing noise hurdle; previous JTWPAs typically added about one photon of noise, and the new approach narrows the gap.

Low-noise Josephson amplifier could accelerate scale-up of superconducting quantum computers

February 17, 2026, 6:12 PM EST. RIKEN researchers demonstrated a low-noise, high-gain readout device for superconducting qubits: a Josephson traveling-wave parametric amplifier (JTWPA). By removing lossy dielectric and adopting a spiraled, fishbone-like tapered waveguide, the team reduced added noise to 0.68 quanta-0.18 above the quantum limit. The advance tackles a long-standing readout hurdle for phase-preserving amplifiers, enabling faster, single-shot measurements and potential simultaneous readout of multiple qubits on a single circuit. Described as a path to scaling superconducting quantum computers toward the 100-qubit regime, the work comes from the RIKEN Center for Quantum Computing. Researchers say fabrication remains accessible, keeping this route practical for integration into quantum processors.

Can You Use Labo VR Goggles for Virtual Boy on Switch? Nintendo Classics FAQ

February 17, 2026, 6:10 PM EST. Nintendo Life tests Virtual Boy on Nintendo Switch Online's Expansion Pack and asks whether cardboard and Labo VR goggles still work. The answer: yes, Labo VR goggles can be used on Switch 1 and Switch OLED to view the Virtual Boy library; Switch 2 is too large without disassembly. Official support stance appears to have shifted, but the hardware fits and the software displays normally. Comfort is limited-holding the headgear for long sessions is awkward, though short play is feasible. Cardboard alternatives exist but remain cramped; some readers may remove the Joy-Con and stack cushions. The piece flags that a full review is forthcoming and a comparison to original peripherals is planned. The FAQ also covers docked play, eye-crossing tricks, and 3D adjustments.

Can You Use Labo VR Goggles For Virtual Boy Games On Switch? VB FAQ Highlights

February 17, 2026, 6:08 PM EST. Nintendo Life's Gavin Lane tests the Virtual Boy library on Nintendo Switch Online's Expansion Pack. He finds that Labo VR goggles work on Switch 1 and OLED models but are awkward for long sessions and may not fit Switch 2 without disassembly. Official support notes are murky, yet the display renders as expected. The piece answers nine questions about whether you can play without the official peripherals, whether you can play docked to a TV, and if eye-crossing or 3D adjustments help. It covers comfort, alternatives to cradling the console, and which launch title stands out. A full NSO-versus-original hardware review is promised later.

Goldman flags moats in select software stocks to weather AI disruption

February 17, 2026, 6:06 PM EST. Goldman Sachs says a subset of software stocks can weather AI disruption, citing durable architectural moats and the data advantage that underpins model performance. Analyst Gabriela Borges notes the rapid evolution of agentic AI makes terminal values hard to gauge. She adds that system of record (SoR) data – the backbone AI models rely on – remains central; leaders such as SAP, Salesforce, Oracle and Workday have built governance, validation and compliance into decades of operation. In the near term, Goldman flags Snowflake, MongoDB, Shopify and CrowdStrike as buy-rated names with moats beyond the application layer. Snowflake and Shopify have slid about 20% and 30% year-to-date. Shopify's upside and MongoDB's longer-term potential are echoed by LSEG sentiment and upgrades from Mizuho and TD Cowen.

Goldman flags AI-resistant moats in select software stocks, names Snowflake, MongoDB, Shopify, CrowdStrike

February 17, 2026, 6:04 PM EST. Goldman Sachs says not all software names are doomed as AI disruption spreads. While software stocks have been slammed on fears that AI tools could upend per-seat subscription models, analyst Gabriela Borges argues the terminal value of these names remains uncertain as agentic technology evolves. She notes that existing SoR (system of record) data hoarding underpins AI models, and that SoR veterans such as SAP, Salesforce, Oracle and Workday have built robust data governance. Goldman shifts focus to firms with clear architectural moats beyond the application layer, naming Snowflake, MongoDB, Shopify and CrowdStrike as buy-rated. Shopify and Snowflake have fallen YTD; Shopify still shows upside around 43% per LSEG, while MongoDB could rise more than 28% per analysts.

Apple expands Home lineup with third-gen HomePod and indoor sensor, per Bloomberg

February 17, 2026, 6:02 PM EST. Apple is expanding its Home lineup, per Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The report flags two items in development: a third-generation HomePod and a compact indoor sensor for home security and automation, alongside expected updates to Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini 2 and other rumored devices such as a smart display (potentially called HomePad or HomePod Touch) and a higher-end version with a robotic arm. Gurman frames this as part of a broader AI devices-for-the-home push. The indoor sensor would extend Apple's first-party accessories into security and automation, complementing doorbells and cameras as plans expand beyond speakers.

Apple could add two new Home products to its smart-home lineup, Bloomberg reports

February 17, 2026, 6:00 PM EST. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that Apple is developing two unexpected Home products alongside other AI devices: a third-gen HomePod and a compact indoor sensor for security and automation. The findings sit with a broader push into AI wearables and home devices that include a smart display tied to a Siri revamp (potential names: HomePad or HomePod Touch) and a larger model with a robotic arm. Other in-development items cite an updated HomePod speaker and the HomePod mini 2, plus rumored cameras and doorbells. Gurman differentiates this from the smaller HomePod product, implying a new full-size unit. The indoor sensor would extend first-party home accessories into security and automation. Apple did not comment.

DJI RS 5 review: smoother stabilization, smarter tracking and easier setup

February 17, 2026, 5:58 PM EST. DJI's RS 5 gimbal tightens the screws on pro moviemaking with smarter automation and stronger stabilization. The model delivers noticeably smoother footage than earlier versions, aided by a new Z-axis indicator that helps users train to minimize motion. The upgraded intelligent tracking module locks onto people and large objects more reliably, and the touchscreen lets you select a subject by dragging a box over it. It performs well with humans and static subjects, but may struggle with animals in busy environments. Setup is simplified through automation, reducing the learning curve that often deters new users. Overall, the RS 5 blends hardware upgrades and software refinements for cinema-grade results, appealing to enthusiasts and professionals, though real-world testing remains essential for fast-paced scenes.

DJI RS 5 review: sharper stabilization, smarter tracking and a new Z-axis indicator

February 17, 2026, 5:56 PM EST. DJI's RS 5 tightens up handheld gimbal work with noticeably stronger stabilization and smarter subject tracking. A new Z-axis indicator helps users see how much motion is being corrected, turning practice into measurable feedback. The gimbal profits from automation that speeds setup and from an improved touchscreen for choosing subjects. Footage looks smoother than prior models, approaching cinematic levels without adding a separate stabilizer. The enhanced tracking handles people and large objects well, though it can struggle with erratic animals in complex scenes. While beginners may still wrestle with the learning curve, the RS 5 aims to reduce the pain points that typically slow gimbal work. In short: more reliable, capable motion with a break-in period.

Apple Music's Playlist Playground creates playlists from text prompts in iOS 26.4 beta

February 17, 2026, 5:54 PM EST. Apple's iOS 26.4 beta adds a new Playlist Playground in the Apple Music app that builds playlists from text prompts. Users type an idea, mood, or feeling, and the feature returns a generated list of 25 songs with a custom title. Pre-set prompts include 'morning coffee music' and 'disco songs that defined the 1970s', but any prompt works. Playlists can be refined with additional prompts, and users can select a cover and a description. The feature is currently developer-only, with a public beta expected later and a spring launch. Sharing features allow playlists to appear on profiles, aligning with standard playlist behavior.

Anthropic, Rwanda sign three-year MOU to deploy AI in health, education

February 17, 2026, 5:52 PM EST. Rwanda and Anthropic signed a three-year MOU to deploy AI across health, education and the public sector. Building on the ALX education partnership announced in November 2025, the agreement marks the first multi-sector government MOU in Africa. The pact targets accelerating health goals, including cervical cancer elimination and reductions in malaria and maternal mortality, and expands access to Claude and Claude Code for government developers, with hands-on training and API credits. It formalizes a plan to deploy 2,000 Claude Pro licenses for educators and a Claude-powered learning companion in eight African countries. Rwanda's ICT Minister Paula Ingabire said the deal aims to strengthen education, health outcomes and governance through capacity building and local autonomy.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang buys a $318,547 Maybach SUV as stock climbs

February 17, 2026, 5:50 PM EST. Nvidia founder and chief executive Jensen Huang, whose net worth is estimated by Forbes at about $151 billion, bought a new Maybach GLS 600 during a visit to Taiwan. The SUV carries a price north of $310,000 – about $318,547 in some listings. Huang remains Nvidia's largest shareholder, owning roughly 3.5% of the company. His base salary is around $1.5 million, but total compensation last year hovered near $50 million when stock awards and incentives are included. Nvidia's stock has surged since 2024, briefly topping $200 and fueling talk that the business's AI components extended the company's fortunes. The billionaire's personal purchase highlights the link between executive wealth and Nvidia's equity, even as his spending draws attention to the scale of wealth concentrated in a single technology firm.

ARK Invest's Wood: Tesla Optimus could transform factories, then homes by 2028-29

February 17, 2026, 5:44 PM EST. Cathie Wood, CEO of ARK Invest, said Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot could begin transforming factory life, then home life, by 2028-2029. ARK's research argues humanoid robots are far more complex than robotaxes-about 200,000 times as hard-driven by a first-principles approach and Elon Musk's determination. The commentary, posted on X, cites Musk's hands-on engineering challenges and references earlier notes from Captain Eli and Calacanis, who have questioned Optimus's timeline and potential. ARK Venture Fund also notes Musk's broader ambitions for Optimus, including potential future roles in space and civilization-building. In June 2025, ARK projected that humanoid robots could unlock about $250 billion in untapped GDP. ARK also holds positions in SpaceX and xAI, underscoring faith in Musk's broader technology portfolio.

Exclusive: Google's Project Toscana targets IR-based face unlock for Pixel and Chromebooks

February 17, 2026, 5:38 PM EST. Google is developing a new advanced face-unlock system called Project Toscana for Pixel phones and Chromebooks. The project is pitched to perform better in low and challenging lighting, addressing a key weakness of current Pixel face unlocks. Android Authority, citing an anonymous source, reports Toscana was tested in Mountain View on a Pixel with a punch-hole camera and on Chromebooks with exposed external cameras, and that its speed rivalled iPhone Face ID under varied lighting. The approach is likely infrared-based, building on prior Google experiments such as Pixel 4's radar/IR system and the Pixel 7-10's upgrade that enabled app logins, with current models still relying on basic front-camera unlock in poorer light. Whether Toscana will be hidden under display or use no extra hardware remains unclear, but the goal is a secure, lighting-agnostic unlock across devices.

Wedbush: Apple's AI moment arrives in 2026

February 17, 2026, 5:24 PM EST. Wedbush argues Apple should be graded on what it's building next, not what it hasn't shipped. The note says Siri upgrades are on track for a 2026 release and that the AI platform will move from promise to product that year. Fresh chatter about personalized Siri delays helped drive a roughly $202 billion swing in Apple's value in a single session, as investors fixate on shipping milestones. The firm, led by Dan Ives, points to new outside AI leadership at Apple Park and a Google Gemini-based foundation-model strategy that could power future Apple Intelligence features, including Siri. Apple aims to ship AI through the device with a privacy-first frame and an ecosystem tied to its billing relationships, even as the March 4 event is not expected to include AI.

Nintendo brings Virtual Boy to Switch and Switch 2 with official headset and dock

February 17, 2026, 5:20 PM EST. Nintendo announces a nostalgia move: Virtual Boy games return on Switch and Switch 2 via Nintendo Online + Expansion Pack. The package includes two new accessories: a $24.99 cardboard headset and a $99.99 replica Virtual Boy unit. The Switch and Switch 2 dock into the devices to play the old library, including Red Alarm, Wario Land, and Mario's Tennis. The original Virtual Boy (1995) was Nintendo's stand-alone 3D console with a 384×224 red-only image per eye, no head tracking, a 20-degree field of view, and commercial failure. Nintendo notes you must use the official headset to view the catalog on Switch, despite earlier notes about a Labo cardboard alternative. The remake is described as faithful, though it recreates a niche and dated device for modern hardware.

Specialized boosts Levo 4 power via OTA update amid eMTB arms race with DJI, Bosch

February 17, 2026, 5:18 PM EST. Specialized has issued a free OTA update for the Turbo Levo 4 line, lifting peak output and torque. The S-Works Levo 4 gains 130W to 850W, with torque held at 111Nm. The non S-Works models rise to 810W and 105Nm, from 666W and 101Nm. The update adds four features: a rider-matched MicroTune power setting that scales support to rider input, a smoother transition toward the speed limiter, a sharper overrun when you stop pedalling, and a three-speed walk mode. Updates are delivered via the Specialized smartphone app. Marco Sonderegger, head of turbo technology, says OTA updates make bikes a living evolving machine. In a market where Bosch Gen 5 offers 100Nm/750W and DJI Avinox touts 120Nm/1,000W, delivery and assist ratio matter as much as raw figures.

Meriden detects attempt to disrupt internet services; no impact on emergency services

February 17, 2026, 5:08 PM EST. Meriden officials said they blocked an attempt to disrupt the city's internet services. Mayor Kevin Scarpati said the IT department moved quickly to prevent interruptions and other cybersecurity concerns. A comprehensive review will determine the scope and nature of the incident before services are restored. The disruption should not affect emergency services, though non-essential city operations could be limited until networks are back online. Scarpati thanked staff and residents for patience as the city works to restore full system functionality in a safe, secure manner. There was no confirmation whether the incident was related to a cyberattack that hit New Britain's city networks last month, which involved a ransomware event causing about 48 hours of disruption.

Meriden identifies attempt to disrupt city internet services

February 17, 2026, 5:06 PM EST. Meriden, Conn., said it detected an attempt to disrupt its internet services. Mayor Kevin Scarpati said the IT department acted to prevent interruptions and other cybersecurity concerns. A comprehensive review will determine the scope and nature of the incident before restoring the internet services. The mayor noted emergency services would not be affected, but non-essential services may be limited or altered during the recovery. There was no immediate indication the event echoed a ransomware attack that disrupted New Britain's city networks for 48 hours at the end of last month. City officials gave no further details and urged residents to await official briefings as systems return to full functionality in a safe, secure manner.

Google Pixel 'Project Toscana' eyed as hardware upgrade to face unlock, rival to iPhone Face ID

February 17, 2026, 5:04 PM EST. Android Authority reports that Google is pursuing a hardware upgrade for face unlock, codenamed Project Toscana, for Pixel smartphones and Chromebooks. The plan centers on a single hole-punch camera cutout and likely infrared hardware, aiming to match iPhone Face ID performance in a range of lighting conditions with no additional visible sensors. The project would mark a shift from past Pixel face unlock implementations, which relied on software-based approaches and lacked secure app integration. Prior rumors linked Tensor G6 to an under-display IR camera system for a future Pixel. If realized, Toscana would offer faster, more reliable facial authentication while Pixel continues to offer both fingerprint and face unlock options.

Google Pixel Project Toscana eyeing hardware-based face unlock rival to iPhone Face ID

February 17, 2026, 5:02 PM EST. Android Authority reports Google is developing hardware-based face unlock for Pixel smartphones and Chromebooks under the codename Project Toscana. The upgrade would keep a single hole-punch camera cutout and may use IR sensors to aim for speed comparable to iPhone Face ID in multiple lighting conditions, with no extra visible hardware. The plan follows earlier Pixel efforts-such as the Pixel 4's facial system-while Pixel 7/8 added improved face unlock but without secure app support. Past rumors linked Toscana to an under-display IR camera via Tensor processors; details remain unclear. If realized, the upgrade could sharpen Pixel's biometrics beyond fingerprint, offering a stronger, hardware-backed face unlock option.

Gemini as the big bogeyman of AI trade: three risks for rivals

February 17, 2026, 4:52 PM EST. Google's Gemini AI, unveiled as a multi-modal platform, is shaping the debate over who controls the next wave of value in AI. Analysts highlight three risk themes for rivals: 1) data access and the scale of training needed to compete with Gemini's capabilities; 2) the cost and availability of specialized hardware as demand climbs; and 3) regulatory and antitrust pressure that could redraw the AI arms race. Alphabet positions Gemini as a bridge across Search, cloud and apps, potentially squeezing smaller rivals on licensing and speed to market. If sustained, the scramble could push costs higher and hasten consolidation, reshaping the competitive landscape in AI services.

Apple releases iOS 26.4 developer beta 1 with encrypted RCS testing and security tweaks

February 17, 2026, 4:50 PM EST. Apple has released iOS 26.4 developer beta 1, a modest point update ahead of the full release later this year. The build expands features previously limited or hidden, but stops short of major changes. Key additions include early testing support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, accessible via Settings > Messages > RCS Messaging with a lock icon for encrypted chats. Apple is auto-enabling Stolen Device Protection for all iPhone users, a security measure that can still be disabled. The update also adds Apple Music's Playlist Playground, powered by Apple Intelligence, for generating playlists from text prompts, and introduces video in the Podcasts app. Developers can install the beta; mainstream users should prefer public betas.

Apple releases iOS 26.4 developer beta with encrypted RCS testing and security tweaks

February 17, 2026, 4:48 PM EST. Apple has released iOS 26.4 developer beta 1, a relatively modest update that builds on prior point releases rather than introducing dramatic changes. The test build adds early support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, via a toggle in Settings > Messages > RCS Messaging, with encrypted chats showing a lock icon; the feature remains limited to certain devices and carriers for now. Apple also auto-enables Stolen Device Protection for all iPhone users, a security feature that requires biometric authentication or a delay before altering settings away from trusted locations. The update brings Apple Music Playlist Playground, an AI-powered tool that generates playlists from text prompts, plus a new Concerts Near You feature and revamped album artwork. Podcasts gain video support in iOS 26.4. Beta remains for developers; public beta preferred for everyday users.

Lenovo bets on AMOLED with ultra-budget F101 smartwatch

February 17, 2026, 4:44 PM EST. Lenovo unveiled the F101, an ultra-budget smartwatch that leans on a premium display rather than advanced sensors. The device features a 1.96-inch AMOLED panel with a 410×502 resolution and curved edges, selling in China for about $30 in pre-orders. To keep costs down, Lenovo omits integrated GPS; distance for runs and walks is estimated using an internal accelerometer and step-counting algorithms. The F101 still includes a rotating crown, Bluetooth calling, and health basics such as heart rate, SpO2, and sleep tracking. It carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, though Lenovo cautions against swimming. Lenovo claims about a one-week battery life with the always-on display disabled. Global availability is unclear; shipping is not expected until mid-March, with warranty considerations for Chinese retailers.

Multiverse Computing CTO Sam Mugel on CompactifAI: quantum-inspired AI compression and the Slim model series

February 17, 2026, 4:42 PM EST. Multiverse Computing co-founder and CTO Sam Mugel says the company pivoted from quantum computing to AI compression in 2023, with CompactifAI fusing quantum techniques to shrink LLMs without losing performance. The Slim model series offers compressed versions of top open-source models, now including Slim variants of Llama, Mistral, Phi, Qwen and DeepSeek, available via private offers and on the AWS Marketplace. Benefits claimed: lower energy use, faster inference, and reduced costs while outperforming originals on benchmarks. Mugel details his background in physics and quantum computing, and describes CompactifAI's method as identifying and retaining the most information-rich parts of an LLM. The goal is to broaden AI adoption by easing compute and energy demands across cloud, data center, and edge deployments.

Nothing pokes fun at Apple event with March 5 Phone (4a) launch

February 17, 2026, 4:36 PM EST. Nothing, led by founder Carl Pei, followed Apple's March 4 product event with its own March 5 launch for the Phone (4a) series. 9to5Mac notes Apple's event will showcase iPhone 17e, new MacBooks, an updated iPad, and a budget MacBook powered by the A18 chip. Nothing posted Apple's announcement to its X/Twitter with the date, then confirmed a 10:30 GMT start for its Phone (4a) reveal. The campaign has included a playful teaser showing a condom, described as a Valentine's Day joke, plus color teasers of blue and pink pills indicating potential new hues.

Lenovo's ultra-budget F101 smartwatch packs AMOLED display at $30

February 17, 2026, 4:34 PM EST. Lenovo unveiled the F101, a budget smartwatch with a $30 price tag in China, betting on a 1.96-inch AMOLED display (410 x 502, curved edges) to stand out. The device omits integrated GPS, estimating distance via an accelerometer and steps. It keeps a rotating crown, Bluetooth calling, and health basics-heart rate, SpO2, and sleep tracking. An IP68 rating shields against dust and water, though Lenovo cautions against swimming. Lenovo pegs battery life at about a week, with the always-on display off. Global edition seems unlikely; shipments are due mid-March from Chinese retailers, potentially complicating warranty claims. For buyers seeking essential functions at sub-$50, the F101 tests how far premium screen tech can stretch at ultra-low cost.

Experts warn AI isn't reliable for taxes; verify results as tax season peaks

February 17, 2026, 4:30 PM EST. LOS ANGELES, as W-2s arrive, experts warn that relying on AI for calculating or filing taxes may be risky. Sam Taube of NerdWallet says math and factual accuracy have not been strengths of AI, illustrating with 2+2 not always equaling 4. Despite caution, more taxpayers use AI to manage finances; NerdWallet's Harris Poll finding shows over 40% use AI to plan personal finances, potentially including taxes. A common use case asks AI to summarize numbers from long forms or PDFs. Experts urge taxpayers to double-check any AI-generated data, ensure the information fed into the AI is correct, and verify the results before submitting returns.

Three reasons Gemini could become the AI market's bogeyman, Google's bid to reshape competition

February 17, 2026, 4:26 PM EST. The article argues three reasons Gemini could become a dominant force in the AI market. First, Gemini benefits from Google's scale, data access and computing power, enabling stronger performance and faster iteration than many rivals. Second, its ties to Google's broad ecosystem-search, ads, cloud and devices-could speed adoption by developers and enterprises. Third, a major incumbent in the AI race would intensify competition and shape policy and regulatory scrutiny, pushing rivals to accelerate investments and guardrails. The piece positions Gemini as a potential catalyst in the shift of AI from research labs to mainstream use.

Google Messages tests partial-text copy feature in beta rollout

February 17, 2026, 4:20 PM EST. Google Messages is quietly testing a long-requested feature: the ability to copy only part of a message (partial-text copy). In a beta build identified as messages.android_20260212_01_RC00.phone.openbeta_dynamic, users can select a portion of text within a message and copy it, instead of copying the whole message. The update follows a redesigned context menu that now supports text selection. Previously, long-pressing a message offered a Copy action that copied everything, complicating long texts, addresses or links. The new flow lets you drag to select, then use Android's system-level copy dialog. The existing Copy button remains to copy the full message. The feature is not yet live for all testers, and may rollout gradually; APK teardowns hint at possible future arrivals in a wider rollout.

Keenadu Android backdoor preinstalled on tablets tied to supply-chain, Kaspersky says

February 17, 2026, 4:16 PM EST. Antivirus firm Kaspersky has found preinstalled Android malware, named Keenadu, on hundreds of thousands of devices across Europe, Japan, Brazil and beyond. The backdoor resides in firmware, enabling attackers to hijack any app, install APKs, grant permissions, and access data such as messages, banking info and location. In at least one case, Keenadu was embedded in the firmware of the Alldocube iPlay 50 mini Pro tablet, with later firmware versions remaining infected. The threat can also target system apps, including ones used for facial unlock, and even appeared on the Google Play Store via third-party camera apps that delivered an invisible web browser for ad fraud; Google removed them after the alert. Kaspersky says the malware is hard to remove and tied to supply-chain compromises.

Wear OS gains Mark as read for Google Messages notifications; emoji reactions pending

February 17, 2026, 3:54 PM EST. Google is rolling out a new Mark as read button for Google Messages notifications on Wear OS. The feature appears when a message notification first arrives, letting users clear unread messages without opening the conversation or replying. If you skip it, the option won't show up later in the notification list. Emoji reactions for Google Messages on Wear OS are still in development and not live yet. The update is sweeping out to both beta and stable builds of Google Messages for Wear OS, following an APK teardown discovery last month.

Reader calls for granular privacy controls in iPhone Mirroring

February 17, 2026, 3:48 PM EST. An Apple ecosystem user argues that iPhone Mirroring, while privacy protections, should offer finer control for daily use. The feature currently activates only when the iPhone is locked, with alerts and a choice between authentication via passcode or Face ID. The author, a Mac-first worker who keeps Mirroring open at his desk, notes the protections prevent passive spying but can disrupt routine tasks. He reports frequent prompts and aggressive background timeouts, even when the iPhone is on a MagSafe charger. He nudges Apple to add optional settings: run the feature even if the iPhone isn't locked, require Face ID by default, and disable auto-timeouts unless the Mac sleeps. He invites others to weigh in via a poll and comments.

Virtuix Omni One joins Made for Meta, eyeing Quest compatibility

February 17, 2026, 3:46 PM EST. Virtuix has joined Meta's Made for Meta program, paving the way for official Quest compatibility for its Omni One VR treadmill. The program certifies accessories that work with Meta devices and meet quality standards. Omni One had targeted PC VR via its Core device ($2,600) and a Pico 4 Enterprise Ultra headset via Complete ($3,500). CEO Jan Goetgeluk says the move expands the addressable market to millions of Quest users and their libraries, with plans for broad game compatibility and tight integration through the Omni One SDK. Details will follow. The announcement comes after Virtuix's Nasdaq debut and an $11 million investment from Chicago Venture Partners alongside a $50 million equity line of credit to scale sales of Omni One.

Ford adopts Tesla-inspired technique to cut cost of $30,000 EV pickup

February 17, 2026, 3:40 PM EST. Ford is adopting a Tesla-inspired production technique to lower the price of its forthcoming $30,000 EV pickup. Officials describe the approach as modular and scalable, designed to streamline the battery-pack integration and vehicle architecture, reducing assembly time and parts. Analysts say the move mirrors Tesla's focus on manufacturing discipline and software-enabled cost control, aiming to attract mass-market buyers while preserving safety and range. Ford expects higher unit volumes to offset per-unit costs, relying on tighter supplier coordination and simplified interiors. The strategy reflects a broader push across the auto industry to close the affordability gap for electric vehicles, as Detroit rivals and new entrants compete for demand.

Old Galaxy S22 camera beats budget phones with RAW and astrophotography features

February 17, 2026, 3:36 PM EST. An ordinary Galaxy S22 from 2022, bought used for under $150, can outperform many modern budget phones in photography after upgrading software and enabling Samsung's Expert RAW app. The handset gains full RAW capture, astrophotography modes and multiple focal lengths through Samsung's imaging pipeline, offering control typically missing on budget devices. Shooting in RAW preserves white balance and color data, supports nondestructive edits in apps like Lightroom or Snapseed, and delivers billions of color values versus JPEG's limited palette. The approach relies on hardware plus software rather than a newer sensor. The finding underscores the value of older flagship hardware paired with the right software on a tight budget.

Oppo Watch S begins European rollout, hints at OnePlus smartwatch future

February 17, 2026, 3:34 PM EST. OPPO has begun the Watch S global rollout in Europe, starting with Austria and select retailers at €259. The ultra-slim model measures 8.9mm and weighs about 35g, paired with a 1.46-inch AMOLED display and up to 3,000 nits brightness. Oppo positions the watch as a design milestone that could press Apple on legibility in bright conditions. The device may also foreshadow a future OnePlus smartwatch, as Oppo's domestic releases often cross to OnePlus in the UK and US. Battery life is stated at up to four days with the always-on display and about ten days in power-saving mode. Health features include a skin temperature sensor and dual-frequency GPS; ECG is not yet confirmed for the global version.

Activision to shut down Warzone Mobile servers on April 17, 2026

February 17, 2026, 3:30 PM EST. Activision will shut down servers for Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile on April 17, 2026. The game, launched in March 2024, was removed from iOS and Android app stores last May after failing to meet expectations for mobile players. In a blog post, the publisher said it remains proud of bringing Warzone to mobile but did not meet the pace and engagement of PC and console audiences. When the servers go offline, guest accounts for Warzone Mobile will be inaccessible, while Activision accounts stay usable via the company's sites and other titles. No new content or updates will be provided, and social features and in-app purchases were discontinued on the store removal date. Consumer spending was about $1.4 million in the first four days after release.

Bernstein trims Amazon price target as AWS drives cloud momentum

February 17, 2026, 3:22 PM EST. Bernstein analyst Mark Shmulik trimmed Amazon's price target to $265 from $300 while keeping an Outperform rating, citing the capex burden of about $200 billion despite stronger AWS growth. The note follows Amazon's Q4 2025 results, where net sales rose 14% to $213.4 billion and AWS sales climbed 24% year over year to $35.6 billion, the segment maintaining the fastest growth and an annualized run rate of about $142 billion. For Q1 2026, Amazon guided operating income to $16.5-$21.5 billion. Beyond cloud, Amazon operates in e-commerce, digital content, and advertising. The company remains a core cloud name, but some AI stocks may offer greater upside with different risk profiles.

Palantir vs Nvidia: Wall Street sees upside; Palantir pricier, Nvidia cheaper on forward earnings

February 17, 2026, 3:20 PM EST. Wall Street expects both Palantir and Nvidia to climb over the next year, but the upside is uneven. Among 30 analysts, Palantir has a median target of $199, implying 51% ahead of the current $132. Nvidia's 74 analysts set a $250 median target, about 37% higher than the $183 current price. Palantir is pitched as a leader in AI decisioning platforms, using forward deployed engineers and an ontology-based framework to feed models with feedback loops. Nvidia dominates AI infrastructure and chip supply. Investors should note Palantir trades at a high multiple-about 205 times forward earnings-while Nvidia's forward multiple appears more reasonable. Forrester recognizes Palantir in AI decisioning; Morgan Stanley cheers the fundamentals. The market sees potential, but valuation risk remains.

Scottish maker builds pocketwatch-style smartwatch from 3D-printed stainless steel

February 17, 2026, 3:18 PM EST. Scottish maker and silversmith Math Campbell has built a smartwatch that lives in a pocket, not on the wrist. Inspired by Neal Stephenson's The Diamond Age, Campbell designed a sci-fi pocketwatch around Waveshare's ESP32-S3 1.75" AMOLED Round Display Development Board. The device uses a dual-core ESP32-S3 behind a circular display wired via quad-SPI. Campbell added a battery and designed a stainless steel case in Fusion 360, then had it 3D-printed. He plans to remake the case in sterling silver, aligning with his silversmith trade. Details are on Reddit; the GitHub repository hosts the source code under an unspecified license. Campbell says the watch is a work in progress-buttons and final refinements remain to be completed.

Pixel Watch 3 at $170; Nest Cam Indoor, Sonos, and Lenovo laptop deals in 9to5Toys Lunch Break

February 17, 2026, 3:12 PM EST. Today's 9to5Toys Lunch Break flags aggressive pricing across Google devices, home audio and laptops. The Pixel Watch 3 in matte black is down to about $170 on Amazon from an original $400, with the discount deepening from prior $200-$300 movements. Pixelsnap cases for Pixel 10/Pro/XL drop to about 40% off on Amazon, while the Nest Cam Indoor is on sale at roughly 25% off (up to 30% open-box). A Sonos home-theater sale reduces wireless speakers, subs and soundbars by as much as $200. Add in gaming laptops with deep discounts-up to $715 off-and a Lenovo OLED laptop deal over $700 off. Deals move quickly; this roundup maps where prices stand as of today.

Pentagon weighs designating Anthropic as supply chain risk, threatening DoD ties

February 17, 2026, 3:10 PM EST. The Pentagon is weighing designating Anthropic as a supply chain risk, which would force DoD contractors to cut ties with the AI firm. Axios cited an unnamed senior Pentagon official saying the move would create a financial headache for Anthropic and push the company out of defense programs. The dispute centers on Anthropic's reluctance to permit unrestricted military use of its Claude models; the company already provides tools inside classified systems via third parties, but with limits. The department has pressed other firms, including OpenAI and Google, to allow broader use through its GenAI.mil platform, where a customized ChatGPT is now available, but Anthropic's Claude remains absent. CEO Dario Amodei has warned about AI risks in warfare.

Samsung Galaxy S26 teaser relies on AI, not camera, to show off low-light upgrades

February 17, 2026, 3:06 PM EST. Samsung's ongoing Galaxy S26 teaser campaign leans on AI-generated visuals rather than the phone's own output to claim low-light improvements. A clip that purports to show brighter after-hours footage is labeled by Samsung as produced with the aid of AI tools, not actual device footage. The Verge notes inconsistent disclosure of AI usage in Samsung's promos, and critics say the AI-slop in other teasers undercuts credibility. Samsung previously teased features such as the Privacy Display and hinted camera upgrades, but the latest clip underscores AI's role in marketing. Samsung has a launch set for February 25. The development leaves questions about how the Galaxy S26 will perform in real-world night shooting.

Beyond NVIDIA: AI and Quantum Plays Target 2026 Platform Upside

February 17, 2026, 3:02 PM EST. Investors in 2026 chase AI upside beyond NVIDIA, with two AI software names and two quantum plays shaping the risk/reward mix. The leader remains NVIDIA on hyperscale AI demand, while estimates place 2026 revenue near $213 billion driven by next-gen GPU platforms and a deep software ecosystem. On the AI software and infrastructure side, SoundHound AI and Marvell span early-stage monetization and established data-center hardware, delivering double-digit growth trajectories even as losses wind down. In contrast, the quantum group, IonQ and D-Wave, pursue asymmetric upside through expanding commercial engagements and platform scaling, backed by sizable balance sheets and ongoing R&D. The debate centers on capital allocation between accelerating AI monetization and longer-horizon quantum outcomes.

Palantir vs Nvidia: Analysts see Palantir with more upside but pricier valuation

February 17, 2026, 3:00 PM EST. Wall Street expects both Palantir Technologies (PLTR) and Nvidia (NVDA) to advance over the next year, but consensus targets favour Palantir. Palantir's median target is $199, implying about 51% upside from $132, while Nvidia's is $250, about 37% above its $183 price. Analysts argue Palantir leads in AI decisioning platforms, aided by its ontology-based analytics and forward deployed engineering model. Yet the stock trades at roughly 205 times forward earnings, a rich valuation given projected 3-year earnings growth of about 45% and a market forecast for enterprise AI platforms growing 38% annually to 2033 per Grand View Research. Nvidia remains a leader in AI infrastructure, with a valuation seen as cheaper relative to forward earnings. Morgan Stanley praised Palantir's fundamentals; Forrester named Palantir a leader in AI decisioning.

SpaceX veterans raise $50M Series A for Mesh Optical's data-center optical transceivers

February 17, 2026, 2:58 PM EST. Mesh Optical Technologies, founded by SpaceX veterans Travis Brashears, Cameron Ramos and Serena Grown-Haeberli, announced a $50 million Series A led by Thrive Capital. The Los Angeles startup aims to mass-produce optical transceivers that convert fiber or laser signals into electrical signals for data centers, enabling multi-GPU AI training. Mesh expects to make about 1,000 units per day this year to reach bulk-order qualifications for 2027-28. The team argues a non-Chinese supply chain is strategic as the market remains dominated by overseas suppliers, and cites potential national-security concerns around critical AI datacenter components. Thrive's Philip Clark says Mesh addresses immediate interconnect needs for scaling AI. The founders plan to co-locate design and manufacturing to cut cost and power, with a 3-5% potential reduction per GPU cluster.

Warzone Mobile to shut down in April after underperforming with mobile-first players, Activision says

February 17, 2026, 2:54 PM EST. Activision Blizzard said in a post on its Support site that Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile will go offline on 17 April, after being removed from app stores in May 2025 and lacking ongoing updates. The company said the mobile spin-off 'did not meet our expectations with mobile-first players' compared with PC and console audiences. Guest accounts will no longer work after shutdown; Activision accounts can still access other Call of Duty titles. Unspent CoD points should be spent before 17 April, as they will be unavailable afterward. Some unlockables in Warzone Mobile can be used in other Warzone versions. The title publicly launched with weaker uptake than Call of Duty Mobile, generating about $1.4 million in its first four days versus $4.2 million for the mobile rival. The shutdown highlights softer demand for the franchise on mobile.

SpaceX veterans raise $50 million Series A for data-center optical links

February 17, 2026, 2:36 PM EST. Mesh Optical Technologies, founded by SpaceX engineers Travis Brashears, Cameron Ramos and Serena Grown-Haeberli, closed a $50 million Series A led by Thrive Capital. The Los Angeles startup plans to mass-produce optical transceivers-devices that turn optical signals into electrical ones-for data centers and AI workloads. The trio say their designs address inefficiencies in the current market and could help GPUs in large clusters communicate more efficiently. A key aim is manufacturing a thousand units per day to qualify for bulk orders in 2027-28, while pursuing a supply chain outside China amid security concerns. Thrive's Philip Clark says Mesh could help scale AI interconnects in the near term. The founders acknowledge automated, Lights-out manufacturing is a hurdle, given U.S. industry lacks such capability today, but co-location of design and production could cut power use by 3-5% in clusters.

Amazon Leo to license satellite modem module to government and enterprise

February 17, 2026, 2:32 PM EST. An FCC filing, flagged by PCMag, shows Amazon's Leo constellation ready to license its modem technology to government and enterprise customers. The so-called ALMM (Amazon Leo Modem Module) lets customers use their own antennas with Leo's non-geostationary satellite connectivity, delivering up to about 1 Gbps in sustained, high-throughput links. The move decouples the modem from the antenna, enabling faster innovation, customized mission hardware, and easier component replacement while maintaining network compatibility. Leo has launched its first satellites and has more than 100 in orbit; SpaceX's Starlink operates thousands of satellites. Authorized to field up to 7,000, Leo's full deployment will take years. Third-party antennas and certifications could broaden adoption and create new revenue streams, including potential government and military licensing.

Amazon Leo to license NGSO modem technology to government and enterprise

February 17, 2026, 2:30 PM EST. Amazon's Leo constellation will license its non-geostationary satellite orbit modem, called the ALMM, to government and enterprise customers. The FCC filing describes a 'high-performance terminal optimized for sustained, high-throughput connectivity' that could deliver Leo's promised 1 Gbps speeds, while letting customers use their own antenna hardware. By decoupling the modem from the antenna, the ALMM enables faster innovation cycles, easier adaptation to mission needs, and resilience to component obsolescence. Leo has about 100 satellites in orbit and is approved for up to 7,000, far short of SpaceX's Starlink fleet. Licensing aims to spur adoption, create new revenue streams, and broaden system integration. Third-party Leo antennas and devices could emerge, potentially extending government and military use of NGSO connectivity.

Apple AirTag 4-Pack Discounted to $64 in Amazon Presidents Day Sale

February 17, 2026, 2:26 PM EST. Amazon is offering Apple AirTag 4-pack at a discounted price during Presidents Day promotions. The bundle costs $64 for four tags, about $16 per tag, a 35% cut from typical pricing. The AirTag attaches to keys, backpacks, luggage, and more, and uses Apple's Find My network to locate items. Users can share location data via the app with others and trigger a loud alert when nearby. The deal highlights the popularity of the AirTag as a compact tracking device. The offer is time-limited and rarely seen at this price.

Nothing's Phone 4A arrival on March 5 not confirmed

February 17, 2026, 2:24 PM EST. Nothing has not confirmed a March 5 arrival for the Phone 4A. There is no official date, retailer listing, or company statement to back the rumor. The lack of confirmation suggests timing remains fluid as the company has in past launches. Tech watchers note speculation typically intensifies ahead of new devices, but the absence of a formal reveal keeps preorders and coverage in limbo. Nothing could signal later details via its channels, retailers, or events. Until a statement materializes, the March 5 date should be treated as speculation, not an established schedule.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 256GB discounted by $200 to $899

February 17, 2026, 2:22 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip7 (256GB) is on sale for $899, down $200.99 from the original $1,099.99. The deal, live now, puts one of the year's leading foldables at a notable discount. The device runs an unlocked Android system with AI (artificial intelligence) features that tailor the interface. Its headline feature remains the foldable display, opening to a near-7-inch panel ideal for video on the go. A 50 MP camera and a capable processor back solid performance, while battery life is sized to last through a full day. A reviewer gave the Flip7 4.5 stars, noting a larger cover screen, reduced crease, and competitive cameras among top rivals.

European Parliament blocks AI tools on lawmakers' devices over security risks

February 17, 2026, 2:18 PM EST. European Parliament blocks lawmakers from using baked-in AI tools on work devices, citing cybersecurity and privacy risks linked to uploading confidential emails to cloud services, according to an email reviewed by Politico. The IT department said it could not guarantee the security of data sent to AI company servers and that what information is shared remains under assessment. It adds: 'It is considered safer to keep such features disabled.' The restriction follows concerns that uploading data to chatbots such as Anthropic's Claude, Microsoft's Copilot, and OpenAI's ChatGPT could expose users to data requests by U.S. authorities and models that learn from user-provided material. Europe keeps strict data protection rules, though Brussels has floated proposals to ease training Europeans' data. Separately, the DHS has issued subpoenas for information on critics; Google, Meta, Reddit have complied in some cases.

Apple sets exclusive March event for select media in NYC, London and Shanghai

February 17, 2026, 2:14 PM EST. Apple is inviting a select group of tech influencers and media to a March 4 in-person event labeled a Special Apple Experience, with sessions in New York, London and Shanghai. The invitation, posted by 9to5Mac editor Chance Miller, carries few details. USA TODAY has asked Apple for comment. Apple typically uses such gatherings to unveil new products, but the sparse wording has left observers unsure if it will be a major reveal. Industry outlets offer theories: a cheaper iPhone 17e, refreshed iPad and MacBook lines with faster chips, and a potential smart-home hub and security camera to pair with Siri. The background briefing also notes an iOS 26.2.1 update improving AirTag tracking. If the March event proceeds, it will follow Apple's late-2025 lineup announcements.

Changan's Nevo A06 with CATL sodium-ion battery could reshape EV batteries

February 17, 2026, 2:08 PM EST. Changan Automobile has unveiled the Nevo A06, its first mass-produced EV powered by a sodium-ion battery from CATL, the world's biggest battery supplier. CATL's Naxtra pack is touted to deliver almost three times the power of a comparable LFP battery at -22°F and to operate normally at -58°F with stable power delivery. The pack is said to retain over 90% of its capacity at -40°F, addressing a key winter performance weakness of lithium-ion cells. If real, the move could reshape the EV battery market given CATL's scale and current automaker relationships. Independent testing will be required, but the launch marks a potential step change in cold-weather range and reliability.

NASA sets date for Artemis 2 fueling test; second wet dress rehearsal targeted for Feb. 19

February 17, 2026, 2:06 PM EST. NASA has scheduled a second fueling test for Artemis 2, a wet dress rehearsal to check the SLS rocket's readiness for a crewed lunar flight. The test is planned no earlier than Feb. 19 at Kennedy Space Center, with launch controllers returning to duty to begin a roughly 50-hour countdown. The exercise will load cryogenic propellants into the rocket's tanks, run through a full launch countdown, demonstrate clock recycling, and practice draining tanks for scrub procedures. NASA previously attempted a Feb. 2-3 test but could not reach launch time due to ground-support equipment issues and hydrogen leaks linked to earlier Artemis tests. Ground work at Launch Pad 39B, including replacing a suspect filter, was completed before plans for the next test.

Presidents' Day 2026 Amazon deals: Apple, Lego, Roborock lead savings

February 17, 2026, 2:04 PM EST. Presidents' Day 2026 brings a wave of Amazon discounts on consumer tech and toys. The round-up spotlights deals on Apple devices and accessories, Lego sets, and Roborock vacuums, among others. Shoppers who missed Black Friday can still nab significant savings during a mid-winter sale, with price cuts varying by product and stock. The guide notes timing windows, price comparisons, and the risk of temporary stockouts as demand peaks. It also advises verifying official storefronts, watching quick flash deals, and checking return policies and shipping estimates during the holiday weekend.

Foldable phones as laptops? A reviewer tests the 'Purse Computer' concept

February 17, 2026, 2:00 PM EST. Senior reviewer Allison Johnson tests the idea of a 'Purse Computer'-a foldable phone plus a travel keyboard-as a mobile workstation. After using the Galaxy Z Fold 7 with a lightweight kit, she finds it lighter than a MacBook Air and capable of replacing a Backpack Computer for some tasks. The piece traces a history of downsizing laptops-from netbooks to tablet keyboards-and argues the concept remains imperfect but appealing for on-the-go work. Johnson notes trade-offs: smaller keyboards, reduced screen real estate, and the risk of forgetting components at home. The experiment centers on portability, immediacy, and whether a phone can truly substitute a laptop in daily errands.

Former DJI sales chief detained in China bribery probe

February 17, 2026, 1:58 PM EST. Former DJI vice president of sales Yuan has been detained in China on suspicion of accepting bribes, according to Jiemian News. Yuan served as DJI's vice president of sales from May 2019 to May 2024 and oversaw the company's global sales operations. Chinese authorities allege he abused his position as a non-state employee to solicit and take bribes. Investigators have not disclosed sums, but reports describe huge amounts of illicit gains. The case is moving through the Chinese judiciary. DJI has a history of internal anti-corruption measures, including a 2019 probe that found corruption costing up to 1 billion yuan. Since Yuan's departure, DJI reorganized its sales and distribution to reduce centralized risk. The company remains a valuable private tech unicorn, with drone and camera sales; U.S. operations face broader trade and security headwinds.

Peak Design introduces low-profile Mobile Straps for phones and compact cameras

February 17, 2026, 1:56 PM EST. Peak Design introduced a trio of Mobile Straps for phones and compact cameras. The lineup includes the Mobile Crossbody Multi-Strap, the Mobile Crossbody Strap, and the Mobile Cuff. Each uses the new MicroAnchor connection for quick adjustments, a low-profile form, and added durability. They are compatible with Peak Design cases, Apple iPhone 17 cases, and third-party cases via an included adapter. The Crossbody Multi-Strap carries essentials with a tangle-free Micro Anchor system and built-in swivel; its aluminum carabiner holds up to three anchors and the length adjusts from 35.4 to 66 inches. The Crossbody Strap is a simpler two-point carry with an accessory loop to convert to single-point carry. The Mobile Cuff is a compact wrist strap with cinching, from 7.9 to 14.2 inches. Colors: black, ocean, ibis. Prices: $59.95, $49.95, $29.95.

WordPress.com adds AI assistant to edit layouts, generate images

February 17, 2026, 1:54 PM EST. WordPress.com introduces a built-in AI assistant that can edit a site, adjust styles and create images from inside the editor. The tool understands content and layout, letting owners issue natural-language commands, not precise prompts, to change sections, colors or typography. It works with block themes (not classic themes); those on Classic will not see the assistant in the editor. Beyond layout, the AI can rewrite bios, translate sections and offer headline suggestions, fact-checks and other editing tips through the block notes editor. Users access it by typing @ai in the editor. For visuals, it taps Google Gemini's Nano Banana models via a new 'Generate Image' button in the Media Library. The feature is opt-in, with automatic enablement for customers buying an AI-enabled website plan.

Nvidia Earnings Preview: AI Spending and Blackwell Demand Drive Post-Release Moves

February 17, 2026, 1:50 PM EST. Nvidia reports fiscal Q4 2026 results after the close on Feb. 25. The AI chipmaker has beaten the consensus earnings estimate in 20 of the last 22 quarters and is a bellwether for both AI demand and the broader market. Recent data-center buyers, led by hyperscalers, are boosting 2026 capex, helping Nvidia's GPUs for AI model training and inference. CEO Jensen Huang called demand for the Blackwell platform "off the charts," and at CES 2026 slides described demand as "insane." Management guides about $65 billion in revenue and around $1.50 in adjusted EPS for Q4, with analysts near those levels. Guidance excludes any China data-center AI chip sales, reflecting ongoing trade considerations.

SpaceX weighs dual-class shares to keep Musk in control ahead of IPO

February 17, 2026, 1:46 PM EST. SpaceX is weighing a dual-class share structure that would let founder Elon Musk retain governance over the rocket maker after an IPO while public investors hold most of the shares. The plan mirrors a system Musk publicly championed at Tesla, granting insiders supervoting rights. Critics say it shields management from accountability; Musk argues it protects the long view from activist pressure. Analysts have floated a possible $1.5 trillion valuation and more than $30 billion in new capital, which would mark a record stock debut. Timing remains uncertain, with speculation of a mid-2026 issue tied to strategic milestones and Musk's 55th birthday. The approach could be pivotal as SpaceX pursues space, lunar opportunities, and AI initiatives requiring patient capital.

Ford to deploy 48-volt architecture in next-gen EVs, aims for $30,000 pickup in 2027

February 17, 2026, 1:44 PM EST. Ford Motor will invest about $5 billion in its next-generation all-electric lineup, anchored by a 48-volt electrical architecture that Ford says will cut costs and boost efficiency. Tesla popularized the approach with its Cybertruck's use of the system, which blends the high-voltage battery with auxiliary power, reducing reliance on a traditional 12-volt lead-acid setup. The architecture expands electrical bandwidth, trims wiring, and uses new ECUs to step voltage down when needed. Ford plans the first vehicle under its Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform as a $30,000 small electric pickup due in 2027, aiming to reach costs closer to gasoline rivals. The company cites improved reliability and a leaner supply chain, with a longer-term bet that could reshape its US and global manufacturing footprint.

SatVu raises £30 million with NATO fund to build thermal-imaging satellite constellation

February 17, 2026, 1:42 PM EST. Earth-observation startup SatVu raised 30 million pounds in a round led in part by the NATO Innovation Fund to fund a return to orbit and a growing constellation of thermal-imaging satellites. SatVu plans two follow-on satellites this year, aiming for a nine-strong fleet capable of 10-20 daily revisits. The money will support the delay of HotSat-2 and HotSat-3 after an earlier demonstrator failed in 2023; SpaceX had been lined up to launch the SSTL-built satellites in 2025, though the company did not disclose a reason for the postponement. SatVu also opened contracts for three additional satellites. NATO and NIF executives call the technology a new data layer for defence, security, and sovereign decision-making.

GM EVs join growing list of bi-directional charging vehicles for home power

February 17, 2026, 1:40 PM EST. Can an EV power a home during an outage? The answer centers on V2H (vehicle-to-home charging), where a car can export energy to a residence. In practice, only a few models support it. An update on Feb. 17, 2026 notes that every current GM EV now makes the list. Honda's upcoming Acura RSX (2026) will feature bi-directional home charging, signaling a broader rollout. Ford F-150 Lightning already delivers up to 9.6 kW back to the home, via the Charge Station Pro and Home Integration System, with about $5,000 in hardware and install. Kia EV9 recently gained V2H when paired with the Quasar 2 bidirectional charger. Barriers remain: hardware, software, and cost.

SoftBank dissolves Nvidia stake, per 13-F filing

February 17, 2026, 1:36 PM EST. SoftBank Group Corp. disclosed that it dissolved its stake in Nvidia in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to SoftBank's 13-F filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Nvidia's shares fell as much as 1.6% and were trading around $179.88 on Tuesday morning. The filing compares holdings as of December 31, 2025 with those as of September 30, 2025. Such filings are due within 45 days of each quarter's end and reflect positions as of that date, but do not capture changes that may have occurred so far in the first quarter. Reporting by Suzanne McGee.

Quantum computing could pose rising data-security risk for municipalities

February 17, 2026, 1:34 PM EST. Municipal data may be vulnerable as quantum computers advance. Fitch Ratings notes that nation-states are gathering encrypted data now with the expectation they will decrypt it later using quantum machines, a strategy known as collect now, decrypt later. NIST's post-quantum cryptography program is racing to set standards; in 2024 NIST released three PQC standards and urged computer-system admins to begin transitioning to them. Experts say no one knows when a quantum computer will threaten current encryption-estimates range from years to decades, and technical hurdles remain. The warning underscores the need for early adoption of post-quantum techniques to safeguard confidential information across state and local governments, and for organizations to plan hybrid and layered defenses ahead of widespread quantum threats.

Nothing to launch Nothing Phone 4a at March London event during MWC 2026

February 17, 2026, 1:26 PM EST. Nothing has formally announced the launch of its upcoming smartphone, the Nothing Phone 4a. The company sent invitations for a London event during MWC 2026, March 2-5, 2026. The briefing says the start time is 10:30 a.m. GMT (5:30 a.m. ET) and the event will be livestreamed on Nothing's website. The invite's tagline, 'something new is coming,' confirms the focus on the Phone 4a series. The London event is tied to MWC timing but will be held separately from the Barcelona show. The rollout underscores Nothing's pattern of regular updates to its affordable line while keeping details tight ahead of the reveal.

NVIDIA's 40% Dow rally in 2025 shows demand beyond AI hype

February 17, 2026, 1:24 PM EST. NVIDIA powered the Dow's 2025 finish with a 40.2% gain that stood out in a broad rally. The move stemmed from real demand for AI data-center GPUs, not hype alone, as results beat expectations. In Q3 FY2026, NVIDIA reported revenue of $57 billion, up 62% year over year, with data-center sales near $51.2 billion and sturdy margins. The company also returned about $37 billion to shareholders through share repurchases, bolstering investor confidence. Analysts say the stock's strength helped lift the Dow and shape 2026 guidance, which envisages roughly $212 billion in fiscal 2026 revenue, a company record. New products, including the upcoming Blackwell Ultra and Rubin architectures, are expected to sustain pricing power as demand remains robust.

Apple Podcasts to roll out enhanced video experience with HLS this spring

February 17, 2026, 1:20 PM EST. Apple plans a new, enhanced video podcast experience in the spring, letting users switch between watching and listening in Apple Podcasts. The feature uses HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video tech, adds a horizontal viewing option and offline video downloads. The move targets a growing market for video podcasts, with Edison Research noting that 51% of Americans have consumed video podcasts and 37% do so monthly. Apple aims to compete with YouTube, Spotify and Netflix, all of which have embraced video podcasts. Eddy Cue calls the update a milestone that puts creators in control of their content while simplifying audience access. The video feature will launch with iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4 and visionOS 26.4 betas this week, ahead of a general spring rollout.

Garmin vívoactive 6 drops to all-time low as Apple Watch deals stay modest

February 17, 2026, 1:18 PM EST. Garmin's vívoactive 6 is on sale for $250, a $50 cut that may not last. The deal sits in a market where Apple Watch discounts remain modest. The smartwatch offers up to 11 days of battery life and a Body Battery energy monitor that combines sleep, stress, naps and workout data to guide rest and peak performance. It tracks sleep quality, naps timing, stress, and workout efficiency, helping users plan routines. A smart wake-up alarm aims to wake you at a lighter sleep stage. While the price cut is attractive, retailers warn the deal could expire quickly. The promo gives budget-conscious buyers a way to access detailed stats without paying Apple-level prices.

Render raises $100 million at $1.5 billion valuation as AI-driven cloud apps boom

February 17, 2026, 1:08 PM EST. Render, a San Francisco cloud-infrastructure startup, raised $100 million at a $1.5 billion valuation, the company said on Tuesday. The funding underscores investors' bets as the cloud market grows more competitive with players like AWS, Microsoft and Google Cloud, and as AI tools spur demand for developer-friendly platforms. Render reports revenue growth above 100% and more than 4.5 million developers using its tools. Co-founder and CEO Anurag Goel said the company will hire additional engineers to build new features. Render, founded in 2018 and about 100 staff, runs on AWS and Google Cloud and is testing its own servers to cut costs. Investors include 01A, Addition, Bessemer, General Catalyst and Georgian Partners.

iOS 26.4 beta hints CarPlay video playback, automaker sign-off required

February 17, 2026, 1:00 PM EST. Apple's iOS 26.4 beta contains new CarPlay code paths that hint at video playback when the car is parked. The feature was announced for CarPlay but did not ship with iOS 26.0, and word has lingered since. In beta 1, researchers like Aaron Perris spotted references such as CarPlayVideoPlayback_ClimateControls, DestinationBanner, Notifications, OnBoardingFlows and TempatedTVApp, suggesting a broader in-car video framework. 9to5Mac later cataloged additional references. No official confirmation yet. Apple notes that automakers must enable the capability, via AirPlay video in the car integration. Practically, video in the car may land for select CarPlay systems at launch, with broader support to follow. Reuters will monitor beta updates and confirm availability.

DJI Neo drone hits $149 at Amazon, lowest price yet

February 17, 2026, 12:58 PM EST. Amazon is offering the DJI Neo drone for $149, down from $199, a 25% discount and the lowest price Amazon has offered for the model. The compact, beginner-friendly mini drone from the creator-loved brand targets casual flyers. Deals coverage notes prices can change after publication. The report credits Mashable contributor Lauren Allain and notes affiliate links may apply. Stock and terms should be checked before purchase.

Best Quest 3 Soft Head Straps for Reclined and Lying-Down Use

February 17, 2026, 12:56 PM EST. Review of soft head straps for the Quest 3 aimed at reclining and lying-down use. The market has expanded beyond the stock cloth bands that ship with Quest headsets, improving comfort for longer sessions. Apexinno A3 Ultra-Light Head Strap uses a silicone accordion rear strap and a front-to-back top strap to lift the headset and ease facial pressure; a right-side scroll wheel tightens the rear strap; the A3 is priced at $29.99 on Apexinno and Amazon; Editor's Note: Apexinno provided a review unit. Kiwi Design K4 Flex Comfort Elite Head Strap combines a rigid yet flexible rear pad with elastic side straps, plus a top strap to lift the headset; it's very comfortable and well finished, though the rear pad may be noticeable for some when lying flat. Both sit between full lying-down solutions and elite, high-end straps.

Apple Watch Series 10 on sale at Walmart for $229 (GPS, 46mm)

February 17, 2026, 12:54 PM EST. Walmart is selling the Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 46mm) for $229, about 47% off its $429 list price. Mashable notes this appears to be the lowest price to date, dipping below the Black Friday level by roughly $50. The deal follows a wave of wearable discounts, but prices can change after publication. Buyers should check model and GPS configuration before purchase. Reported by Mashable's Haley Henschel.

Taiwan Showcases AI Breakthroughs at Embedded World 2026

February 17, 2026, 12:46 PM EST. Taiwan aims to spotlight its AI-led hardware and edge solutions at embedded world 2026 in Nuremberg, March 10-12. Organized by TITA and TAITRA under the motto "Taiwan: AI Island," the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion will host a Product Launch Event on March 10 at Hall 2, Booth 2-313. The showcase emphasizes AI-powered computing, edge devices, and semiconductor-based hardware, with many brands highlighting chip design, manufacturing and system integration. Taiwan's ecosystem links TSMC's semiconductor leadership with embedded platforms and industrial hardware, supporting worldwide deployment of AI. The event underlines Taiwan's role in global AI infrastructure amid rising demand for high-performance computing and intelligent systems across healthcare, manufacturing and other sectors.

Russia's State Duma approves bill expanding FSB power to shut down internet and telecom services

February 17, 2026, 12:44 PM EST. Russia's State Duma on Tuesday passed a bill that would force internet and mobile providers to comply with orders from the FSB (Federal Security Service) to shut down services. The bill, introduced last year, argues it would shield Russians and state institutions from security threats while protecting telecoms from lawsuits as regions face disruptions amid Ukrainian drone attacks. It passed 393 votes in favor. Amendments removed references to security threats as justification and shifted the FSB's role from non-binding requests to binding requirements. In addition to internet and mobile services, the measure would allow blocking calls, texts and even postal services, according to Deputy Communications Minister Igor Lebedev. Thirteen Duma members voted against. Final passage requires approval by the Federation Council and Putin's signature.

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

February 17, 2026, 12:42 PM EST. Apple's iOS 26.4 beta adds a test for end-to-end encryption in RCS messaging on iPhone. Apple says the feature is in beta, not shipping in this release, and will arrive in a future software update for iOS, iPadOS, macOS and watchOS. In this beta, RCS encryption is available for testing only between Apple devices and is not yet testable with Android or other platforms. The move follows Apple's past objections to unencrypted RCS and comes as Google and the GSMA push for cross-platform encryption. Broad, cross-device support will hinge on carriers and device compatibility.

Vista launches AI Innovation Partnership Program to advance differentiated language instruction

February 17, 2026, 12:40 PM EST. Vista, the K-12 division of Vista Higher Learning, announced a AI Innovation Partnership Program to help districts, schools, and educators extend lessons, create engaging activities, and adapt Vista content. The initiative, built to integrate with vhlcentral, leverages native AI features to support instruction, feedback, and learning workflows. First partners are TeachShare and Wayground, expanding tools for differentiated instruction and scaffolding across students' language and literacy journeys. Executives said the program aims for purposeful, classroom-ready AI that saves teachers time and supports students where they are. TeachShare founder Aryan Bhadouria stressed connecting AI to classroom needs; Wayground's Connor Pierson highlighted real-time insight and responsive teaching. The effort combines complementary technologies to improve lesson planning and monitoring in language instruction.

Apple AR glasses may not arrive before 2028, says Omdia; Meta tipped for 2027

February 17, 2026, 12:36 PM EST. Market researcher Omdia says Apple's AR glasses are unlikely to arrive before 2028, with Meta's option expected in 2027. The report highlights OLEDoS (OLED on silicon) as the likely display tech for next-gen eyewear, a shift from today's TFT LCD or LCoS panels. If correct, Apple and Meta will join a field that currently includes Meta's Ray-Ban Display, which uses older display tech. The outlook underscores a long ramp for AR glasses, framing 2027-2028 as the first meaningful arrival window rather than this year. The claim relies on Omdia's supply-chain and product development estimates; Apple did not publicly comment on timelines for AR glasses as of the report.

Android Adds Local File Backup to Google Drive via Play Services

February 17, 2026, 12:28 PM EST. Google's System Services Release Notes indicate a new local file backup feature in Google Play Services (v26.06) that will automatically save downloaded documents to Google Drive on supported Android phones. The notes give little detail on how the feature operates or where backups live, and it is not described as the same as device-to-device transfer or factory-reset restoration. It appears to backup only downloaded documents rather than an entire device. Google has not yet provided controls or a timetable for enabling or disabling the feature; more guidance is expected as the feature is clarified. Users may want to limit automatic uploads, but no settings are described in the notes.

EU watchdog launches large-scale probe into Elon Musk's X over Grok sexualised images

February 17, 2026, 12:24 PM EST. The Irish Data Protection Commission opened a large-scale inquiry into Elon Musk's X over sexualised images generated by Grok, the AI chatbot. The probe focuses on whether X complied with the EU's GDPR rules in handling citizens' personal data. The DPC said it has been engaging with X since reports that Grok could prompt the tool to generate sexualised images of real people, including children. The EU is already reviewing Grok's deployment on the platform. The move adds pressure as the UK ICO and France pursue investigations into X and xAI, with a Paris raid part of the broader probe. X has restricted Grok's image generation and denies wrongdoing.

Samsung faces scrutiny over AI disclosures in social media ads

February 17, 2026, 12:22 PM EST. Samsung is pushing AI into its marketing, releasing videos on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok that showcase device features using generative tools. The company flags that content was "generated with the assistance of AI tools," but visible cues-artificial-looking weights and shifting cobblestones-raise questions about transparency. Critics point to inconsistent AI disclosures across posts and to platform labeling gaps, noting that YouTube and Instagram have not consistently applied AI labels despite standards like C2PA. Samsung has faced prior scrutiny over claimed camera performance. This wave of AI-enabled content shows a broader push to weave AI across devices while balancing novelty with clear disclosures and consumer trust.

China state media amplifies Tesla failure as sales slump draws scrutiny

February 17, 2026, 12:20 PM EST. China.com, a state media site under the State Council Information Office, published a Tesla Model Y incident in which the car lost propulsion on a Zhejiang highway while the dash showed 72 km of range. The piece quickly circulated on Weibo, drawing attention to EV safety buffers and range accuracy. By amplifying the story, Beijing signals a potential shift in attitude toward Tesla. The report sits against a backdrop of tightened media control and past regulatory friction; analysts note Tesla's ties to officials, including the Shanghai production hub, and a history of lawsuits over failures. The episode tests whether a single fault becomes a broader narrative about EVs in China, or a standalone safety concern.

Galaxy S26 Ultra Privacy Display leaks show auto triggers, granular controls ahead of Feb 25 launch

February 17, 2026, 12:12 PM EST. Leaks describe Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra as equipped with a built-in Privacy Display that darkens or hides parts of the screen when viewed from an off angle. Screenshots show a One UI setting to auto-trigger the feature when you use sensitive apps, with granular options for location, content, and which part of the display is masked. The feature appears to have circulated earlier, with initial leak screenshots from October resurfacing ahead of the launch. Samsung has scheduled a February 25 event to unveil the Galaxy S26 series, making the Privacy Display one of the few remaining talking points as the line's refresh nears.

Apple underweight drags Sands Capital Tech Innovators Fund's relative performance

February 17, 2026, 12:06 PM EST. In its Q4 2025 investor letter, Sands Capital Management's Technology Innovators Fund reported mixed results as market leadership narrowed to a handful of large-cap names. The fund's underweight to Apple Inc. was the largest drag on relative performance within the Magnificent Seven. Apple's stock gained on signs of an iPhone upgrade cycle and a measured AI spend, even as AI momentum remained uneven. The fund posted a 6.3% Q4 decline and a 1-year return of 14.7%. Apple traded in a broad range over the past year, from $169.21 to $288.62, and closed on Feb 13, 2026 at about $255.78-giving it roughly a $3.76 trillion market cap. The letter reiterates a long-term horizon and an average annual turnover near 21%.

Four-pack of first-gen AirTags on sale for $64, near record-low price

February 17, 2026, 12:04 PM EST. A four-pack of first-gen AirTags is discounted to $64, about a 35% cut from the usual $29 per tag. That works out to roughly $16 per tag if bought individually on sale. Apple released a newer model last month with longer range and a louder speaker; it lists at the same price as the predecessor, so current deals focus on the older generation. The Find My network helps locate missing items, and on iPhone you can trigger a sound or use Precision Finding to zero in on a tag. Note: the deal applies only to the first-gen model. Deals on the new AirTag may appear later.

SpaceX launches Starlink 6-103 from Cape Canaveral, Florida

February 17, 2026, 12:00 PM EST. SpaceX launched the Starlink 6-103 mission from Cape Canaveral, Florida, pushing the Starlink broadband constellation deeper into orbit. The launch underscores SpaceX's ongoing cadence of orbital deployments to expand global internet service. Officials did not immediately disclose the satellite count or deployment timeline. The operation highlights SpaceX's effort to scale its low Earth orbit broadband, a project under regulatory and market scrutiny as it seeks wider coverage across regions.

Firefly Alpha set for launch; SpaceX to launch three Starlink missions, per NASASpaceFlight preview

February 17, 2026, 11:58 AM EST. NASASpaceFlight's preview notes two missions. Firefly Aerospace intends to launch its Alpha rocket, a milestone for the company's small-lift line. SpaceX is scheduled to fly three Starlink missions, continuing the deployment of the broadband satellite constellation. The preview underscores a busy commercial launch slate and signals ongoing activity in the sector.

ByteDance's Seedance 2.0 AI videos spark Hollywood backlash

February 17, 2026, 11:48 AM EST. Hollywood's latest AI controversy centers on ByteDance's Seedance 2.0, a video model that generates ultra-realistic clips of stars. After viral posts of Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise, industry groups reacted swiftly: the MPAA condemned the tool, SAG-AFTRA issued a statement, and Disney and Paramount sent cease-and-desist letters. The episode mirrors earlier tensions around OpenAI's Sora 2, but critics say ByteDance's lack of media ties makes it a more vulnerable target for a public backlash. ByteDance says it will strengthen safeguards to curb unauthorized use of intellectual property and likeness, while offering little detail on next steps. Analysts note the speed of pushback signals how quickly studios can mobilize when a new AI model threatens copyright and traditional box-office dynamics.

Integrals Power tests LMFP durability in extended cycle-life tests

February 17, 2026, 11:46 AM EST. UK-based Integrals Power says its LMFP pouch cells have demonstrated strong durability in lifecycle testing. Independent QinetiQ testing reached more than 1,500 cycles at a 1C rate, with the pouch cell retaining nearly 80% of its original capacity; at 1,000 cycles it held above 80%. Cranfield University testing at sub-zero temps showed the batch retained 85% capacity at -25ºC and 68% at -30ºC. By comparison, current benchmark LFP and LMFP chemistries deliver around 40% and 50% respectively. Integrals says LMFP can offer lower cost, safer batteries with less reliance on critical minerals than NMC chemistries, and higher energy density than LFP. Production at its UK pilot plant uses materials from Europe and North America, important amid geopolitical tensions affecting supply chains.

iOS 26.4 beta adds per-device hotspot data usage tracking in Settings

February 17, 2026, 11:40 AM EST. Apple's iOS 26.4 beta, released yesterday, includes a feature that shows data usage per connected device for the Personal Hotspot. Discovered by X user Traviiolla, the change appears in Settings under Personal Hotspot: at the bottom is a Data Usage menu that only appears after you've used the hotspot recently. The menu breaks down data usage by each device, and you can reset the figure by resetting the overall Cellular usage stats. The feature helps users track consumption across their own devices or when others connect to their hotspot. Apple reportedly stored this data in a different place in Settings before; many longtime iPhone users may not have known where to look. For heavy hotspot users, this provides practical, per-device visibility of data use.

Pixel 10a specs leak from carrier ahead of Google's Feb. 18 launch

February 17, 2026, 11:28 AM EST. Google has officially teased the Pixel 10a, confirming a design change: no camera bar and a dual-camera system flush with the rear. Pre-orders start Feb. 18 at 7 AM PT / 10 AM ET on the Google Store. 9to5Google, citing Tracfone, lists key specs: display 2424 × 1080 and a 5,100 mAh battery; rear cameras 48MP/ 13MP and a front 13MP sensor. Durability is IP68, storage 128GB, and the phone runs Android 16. RAM and chipset remain unconfirmed, with Tensor G4 expected. A Berry red front image appears in the leak. Editors will cover the full announcement on the 18th.

MBR first look at DJI-powered Velduro Rogue high-pivot enduro e-bike

February 17, 2026, 11:20 AM EST. MBR's Danny Milner takes a first look at the Velduro Rogue ahead of riding it, after the bike debuted as a 3D-printed mock-up at China Cycle Show last May. The lightweight, high-pivot enduro e-bike hails from New Zealand and is powered by the DJI Avinox M1 motor with an 800W battery in the downtube, delivering up to 1000W peak power and 120Nm torque. Milner weighs and measures the frame's geometry and travel, noting the Rogue's frame-only option and price ladder: £5,000 with a Fox Float X2 shock, £4,500 without. Complete builds include the £9,000 Rogue R with Fox Factory suspension, and a Rogue X priced at £6,750 later this spring. A full review will follow on MBR's YouTube channel.

Trust, not efficiency, should guide AI deployment

February 17, 2026, 11:18 AM EST. Trust has become the central question in AI deployment, not capabilities or speed. The author argues that trust from customers, employees and providers determines adoption and loyalty. A KPMG survey shows two-thirds use AI, but fewer than half trust it. In customer experience, AI can deepen connections when deployed thoughtfully, but a focus on cost-cutting can erode trust. Trust and understanding reinforce each other: trusted interactions yield feedback, which informs better products and experiences. The piece contrasts pragmatic AI-solutions that solve real problems and build relationships-with science projects that impress in demos but fail in deployment. It warns that an efficiency-only agenda risks a commodity market and poorer customer journeys. Gartner predicts the cost per resolution for generative AI in customer service will exceed offshore human agents by 2030.

Edge AI silicon: How Intel, AMD, NVIDIA and Arm are shaping distributed computing

February 17, 2026, 11:14 AM EST. Edge devices-from retail cameras to factory controllers-are becoming frontline AI systems, merging CPUs, GPUs and increasingly NPUs for low-latency, on-device inference. This piece compares how Intel, AMD, NVIDIA and Arm pursue edge AI and offers CIOs a practical decision framework to align silicon, thermals and software ecosystems with real workloads. The core takeaway: CPUs keep devices responsive, GPUs run bursty, heavy AI, and NPUs sustain day-to-day inference with higher efficiency and better thermal behavior. Intel touts a platform-first approach with Core Ultra platforms that pair CPU cores, an integrated Arc GPU and an NPU in a power-efficient package, plus vPro for remote manageability. As workloads become more NPU-aware, sustained tasks migrate away from CPU/GPU, shaping edge deployments and fleet management.

Apple eyes YMTC and CXMT as leverage against big memory suppliers

February 17, 2026, 10:56 AM EST. Apple is exploring a partnership with YMTC and CXMT to win better terms as it negotiates with the industry's big three – Samsung, SK hynix and Micron – and KIOXIA. The Cupertino company sources DRAM mainly from Samsung, which accounts for about 60% of DRAM for the iPhone 17, with SK hynix and Micron supplying the rest. In NAND, Samsung, SK hynix and KIOXIA are the main suppliers, and Apple has secured NAND access through Q1 2026, though KIOXIA is expected to raise prices under a long-term deal. A TF Securities note and a Cook quote frame a shift toward quarterly price negotiations. The move hinges on a calculated risk: YMTC and CXMT could tilt leverage in Apple's favor, especially as China's memory makers close the gap.

The seven-inch phone debate: practicality eclipsed by foldables

February 17, 2026, 10:54 AM EST. Leaker Digital Chat Station says two companies are evaluating 7-inch phones, a size already seen in Huawei's Mate 70 Air and TCL's NxtPaper 60 Ultra. No 7-inch iPhone or Galaxy is confirmed, but the chatter persists. A veteran reviewer contends such devices are impractical: hard to manage with one hand and difficult to fit in a pocket. Foldables were designed to tame big screens, delivering large displays with a hinge. The reviewer points to the Honor Magic V3, Galaxy Z Fold, and Huawei Mate X series as more sensible paths, even if they remain pricey and more fragile. As foldables mature, prices could drop and narrow the gap with traditional large phones. A seven-inch iPhone XL seems unlikely for now; whether brands follow the trend remains uncertain.

FairScan: The simplest open-source Android document scanner

February 17, 2026, 10:40 AM EST. FairScan is pitched as the simplest Android document scanner. The open-source, free app avoids ads and cloud-based data use that some competitors employ. Users shoot each page, crop and straighten with a green framing box, then assemble pages into a single PDF or multiple JPEGs. New pages are added with a plus button, enabling multipage scans on a phone. Export options and a straightforward workflow make it attractive for going paperless. The creator, Pierre-Yves Nicolas, criticized other Android scan apps for intrusive behavior and privacy concerns. The tool focuses on doing one job well, with a minimalist feature set and no automatic data harvesting. Potential enhancements include editing pages and OCR.

macOS 26.4 adds Battery Charge Limit to Mac and Shortcuts

February 17, 2026, 10:32 AM EST. Apple's macOS 26.4 beta brings the Charge Limit feature to the Mac and to the Shortcuts app. The tool lets users cap charging at a chosen level, initially between 80% and 100%, with the option for a specific 80%-100% setting now available in the Mac beta. When enabled, the system stops charging a few percentage points below the set limit, reducing the wear from always hitting 100%. Apple notes occasional full charges may still occur to keep battery state estimates accurate. On a Mac, enable it in Settings > Battery > click the info symbol next to Charging. The update targets power users who work near a charger, and the beta also brings Charge Limit automation via Shortcuts.

Apple leans on integration as AI foundation models commoditize

February 17, 2026, 10:18 AM EST. Apple's AI strategy is viewed skeptically by some analysts who point to Siri delays and a rumored 2026 rollout. Yet the article argues that the foundation-model market is becoming a commodity. As leading providers trim prices, the strategic value may lie in the integration layer and the user relationship. Apple's 2.4 billion active devices and its privacy-first architecture position it to curate engines rather than build them. Since 2024 Apple has shifted from OpenAI to Google's Gemini to power Siri, wrapping the best available tech in its ecosystem. The company aims to 'own the experience' while outsourcing the underlying models. This mirrors Apple's historical pattern: let others bear pioneer costs, then enter with superior integration, embedding AI across its products rather than selling chatbots as products.

India targets over $200 billion in AI infrastructure investment by 2028 to become a global AI hub

February 17, 2026, 10:16 AM EST. India unveiled a plan to attract more than $200 billion in AI infrastructure investment by 2028, aiming to become a global hub for AI computing. IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw outlined the push at the five-day AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, with attendees from OpenAI, Google, Anthropic and other firms. The program blends tax relief, a state-backed venture fund and policy support to draw the AI value chain into India. Officials note about $70 billion in commitments from U.S. tech majors to expand AI and cloud capacity, plus roughly $17 billion for deep-tech and AI applications. Policy moves include export-oriented cloud tax relief, a ₹100 billion venture program, and startup benefits extended to 20 years. India will add 20,000 GPUs to its shared compute pool under the IndiaAI Mission, building on 38,000 today.

Google Pixel 10a: carrier leak confirms core specs ahead of launch

February 17, 2026, 10:14 AM EST. Tracfone's knowledge-base page confirms several Pixel 10a specs ahead of its February 18 launch. The leak lists a 2424×1080 display, a 5,100 mAh battery, 128GB of storage, IP68 dust/water resistance, Android 16, Bluetooth 6, and rear cameras of 48MP/13MP plus a 13MP front camera. The device weighs 184 g and measures 73×154×8.9 mm. The page shows the Berry red color in front view. It does not mention the chipset or RAM, reiterating that Tensor G4 and other memory specs remain unconfirmed by this source. Google has confirmed pre-orders start on February 18, aligning with the official launch window.

Figma partners with Anthropic to convert AI-generated code into editable designs

February 17, 2026, 10:10 AM EST. Figma and Anthropic unveiled a feature called Code to Canvas that turns code generated by Claude Code into fully editable designs inside Figma. The integration creates a bridge between AI coding tools and Figma's canvas, letting teams refine, compare options and align on design decisions after prompting an AI agent. The move underscores belief that agentic coding tools won't erase design work and may heighten its importance, even as the broader SaaS rally falters and software stocks slump. Figma, which goes to earnings later this week, has seen its shares fall about 85% from a 52-week high amid the bear market in software names.

Beyond NVIDIA: AI and Quantum Plays for 2026 Platform Upside

February 17, 2026, 10:08 AM EST. Investors in 2026 chase platform upside beyond NVIDIA. This piece analyzes SoundHound AI (SOUN), Marvell (MRVL), IonQ (IONQ) and D-Wave Quantum (QBTS) as four routes to AI software, AI infrastructure and next-gen computing. SoundHound AI shows strong momentum: Q3 2025 revenue up 68% YoY; 2025 guidance near 98% growth, though it remains unprofitable as it monetizes Amelia. Zacks pegs 2026 earnings up 56.9% on 38.3% revenue growth. Marvell, anchored in data centers, posted about $2.01B revenue in Q2 FY2026, up 58% YoY; AI silicon and high-bandwidth interconnect drive roughly 74% of revenue, with 2027 earnings seen up about 23.3% on 22.8% revenue. IonQ reported Q3 2025 revenue of $39.9M, up 222% YoY, and a $3.5B pro-forma cash balance after a $2B equity offering, funding continued expansion. D-Wave rounds out the quartet as a bet on future computing.

Radnor, Council Rock parents say schools failed to protect daughters from AI deepfakes

February 17, 2026, 9:58 AM EST. Parents in Radnor and Council Rock allege schools failed to shield daughters from AI-generated deepfakes that circulated after unsettling messages and manipulated images appeared at school. In Radnor, a December incident involved a male classmate accused of making pornographic deepfakes; a district message suggested images that could be moved or danced were not found, while police later charged a student with harassment tied to sexualized images of multiple girls. In Council Rock, two girls were targeted last March and parents say administrators waited days to notify police and did not alert the community, though officials say the investigation began promptly after notification. Lawmakers are pushing measures to redefine explicit AI images as abuse and require rapid school reporting, while districts say current laws limit their ability to prevent or publicly address such incidents.

Laurie Spiegel's Music Mouse returns after 40 years, reviving algorithmic composition for modern machines

February 17, 2026, 9:54 AM EST. Laurie Spiegel's landmark software Music Mouse returns 40 years after its 1986 debut, bringing algorithmic music to modern Macs and PCs with help from Eventide. The original tool, built for Mac, Atari and Amiga, let users generate melodies on an XY grid-an approach Spiegel calls an "intelligent instrument" that limits scale choices but lets users shape harmony and rhythm with a mouse. The new version preserves core ideas but expands the sound engine, adding patches drawn from Spiegel's Yamaha DX7 and improved MIDI capabilities to route data into DAWs or external synths. Spiegel, a Bell Labs pioneer, frames computers as a contemporary "folk instrument," and the update avoids feature bloat, focusing on stability and compatibility with current machines. The discussion also touches on AI versus algorithmic methods in music creation.

NVIDIA's AI data center surge ahead of Q4 earnings tests its long-term narrative

February 17, 2026, 9:52 AM EST. NVIDIA approaches its February fiscal Q4 2026 release amid accelerating revenue growth and stronger AI data center demand, with management guiding higher sales on the Blackwell platform and the Rubin AI factories. The cycle hinges on hyperscalers committing hundreds of billions to AI data center infrastructure, and investors will watch whether orders sustain the premium multiple. A recent tie-up with Dassault Systèmes links industrial 'virtual twin' environments to NVIDIA's AI stack, signaling broader adoption beyond hyperscalers into industrial workflows. Yet dependence on a small handful of buyers remains a risk if AI capex slows or margins tighten. Analysts have varied forecasts, and the narrative will hinge on February's results and guidance for 2027-era growth.

AI giants hoard memory chips, pushing prices toward hyperinflation, industry warns

February 17, 2026, 9:48 AM EST. Industry leaders warn a memory-chip crunch will bite profits and push prices higher for laptops, phones, cars and data centers. Since the start of 2026, Apple, Tesla and a dozen other firms have signaled DRAM shortages will constrain production. Cook said iPhone margins could shrink; Micron called the bottleneck unprecedented; Musk said Tesla may need to build a memory fab. The squeeze centers on AI data centers, as Alphabet and OpenAI buy Nvidia accelerators with large memory allocations to run chatbots and other apps, tightening supply from Samsung and Micron. Prices have spiked-the price of a DRAM type rose 75% from December to January-and some outlets call it RAMmageddon. Analysts warn the demand surge, driven by AI capex, is structural and may outpace supply into the decade. Lenovo's Yang Yuanqing cautioned the imbalance will hit electronics broadly.

Spain to probe X, Meta and TikTok over AI-generated child sexual abuse content

February 17, 2026, 9:46 AM EST. Spain will ask prosecutors to investigate X, Meta and TikTok over potential criminal liability for allowing their AI to generate and spread child sexual abuse material. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said the move aims to protect the mental health, dignity and rights of children and end platform impunity. An expert report warned that deepfake generation and manipulation of real images could enable widespread, rapid and opaque dissemination, complicating detection and prosecution and fueling networks that produce, share and monetise this content. The cabinet approved the step and signaled forthcoming measures, including a social media ban for under-16s and rules to hold tech firms liable for harmful content. The EU is pursuing related probes into X's Grok and Ireland's GDPR inquiry.

D-Wave defends against short-seller attacks as $550 million quantum deal reshapes growth outlook

February 17, 2026, 9:42 AM EST. Publicly traded quantum players face activist shorting. D-Wave, IonQ, Rigetti, and Quantum Computing Inc. have market caps that dwarf current revenues. D-Wave CEO Alan Baratz rebuffs Kerrisdale Capital's critique, saying many statements were misleading while touting a threefold revenue rise, 100+ paying customers, and a $550 million acquisition aimed at solving a core quantum problem. The nine-month tally reached $22 million in revenue, up from $6.5 million a year earlier, and included a new $10 million licensing deal. Baratz argues shorts are market-driven and urges caution over the longer-term potential of quantum computing, noting a total addressable market widely cited between $200 billion and $1 trillion. D-Wave's market cap remains higher than current business value, with ~16% of shares short.

New iOS 26.4 feature shows hotspot data usage by device

February 17, 2026, 9:40 AM EST. Apple's iOS 26.4 adds a per-device data-usage view for Personal Hotspot. In Settings, under the Maximize Compatibility toggle, the feature breaks out data by connected devices, with non-Apple devices shown as Other Devices and total hotspot data also displayed. The change is the first to let users see how much data each connected device consumes on a Personal Hotspot. It could help those with strict carrier limits. Apple says the update is in developer beta, with a public beta coming soon and a spring release planned.

iPhone 17e lags behind Pixel 10a in budget smartphone race

February 17, 2026, 9:38 AM EST. Macworld analyzes the iPhone 17e against Google's Pixel 10a, arguing Apple still trails in the budget smartphone segment. At roughly $599, the iPhone 17e competes against a $499 Pixel 10a that touts a dual camera setup, a 120Hz display and stronger AI photography tools. The iPhone 17e reportedly keeps a single rear camera, a 60Hz panel and notch design, while offering MagSafe compatibility and upgraded chips. The Pixel 10a is expected to debut February 18 with a reworked Tensor G4 and a full year of OS updates. In Macworld's view, the refreshes look incremental on the surface, but the Pixel's combination of price, features, and software support undercuts Apple's value proposition for budget buyers. Apple's strategy remains under scrutiny from Android rivals.

Apple tests end-to-end encrypted RCS messages on iPhone in iOS 26.4 beta

February 17, 2026, 9:30 AM EST. Apple is starting to test end-to-end encrypted (E2EE) (RCS) messages with the iOS 26.4 developer beta. The trial focuses on Apple devices for now; cross-platform encryption with Android isn't live, and Apple says the feature will ship in a future update rather than in iOS 26.4 itself. The move targets interoperable, more secure messaging between iPhone and Android users as RCS gains traction as a successor to SMS. The GSMA has pitched E2EE RCS as a major milestone, with Apple previously signaling support across iOS, iPadOS, macOS and watchOS in future software. The beta also adds other features, like seamless podcast audio/video switching, but E2EE RCS remains limited to Apple-to-Apple testing for the moment.

SlimeVR launches crowdfunding for thinner, lighter Butterfly full-body trackers

February 17, 2026, 9:28 AM EST. SlimeVR has opened a crowdfunding campaign for its Butterfly Trackers, promises thinner, lighter full-body motion capture. The campaign exceeded its $180,000 goal within days and sits around $347,000 from nearly 760 backers as of February 9. The system uses the same IMU-based tracking as the original, powered by the ICM-45686 chip from TDK and free of base stations. The key change is a custom 2.4 GHz dongle that replaces Wi-Fi, enabling smaller, lighter trackers and up to 48 hours of battery life per unit. Attachments include straps, clips, and iron-on patches. They work with standalone headsets like Meta Quest, Pico, and Steam Frame, and any SteamVR headset. The Core Set Bundle of six trackers costs $279 and ships by Aug. 31, 2026; campaign ends March 19.

Vision Pro gains foveated streaming in visionOS 26.4 beta, echoing Valve's approach

February 17, 2026, 9:22 AM EST. Apple's Vision Pro gains a foveated streaming feature in the visionOS 26.4 beta released February 16, using eye-tracking to render high-quality pixels at the user's gaze while reducing bandwidth elsewhere. The technology mirrors Valve's approach for Steam Frame, but Apple requires apps to be integrated with its framework and supports NVIDIA's CloudXR SDK for cloud VR. The update enables a hybrid model where spatial apps run alongside streamed content, expanding potential use for enterprise and developers, though it does not imply immediate consumer competition with Steam Frame. Analysts say the change tightens Vision Pro's cloud streaming capabilities while hardware costs and adoption will shape how quickly enterprises embrace the feature.

UAE launches its first domestically developed hybrid rocket, advancing sovereign space capability

February 17, 2026, 9:18 AM EST. UAE marks a milestone in sovereign space capability as the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) launches the country's first sounding rocket powered by a fully domestically developed hybrid propulsion system. The mission, led by TII under the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), flew at 12:21 PM on February 13, reaching about 3 kilometers before a safe recovery. The flight validated the N2O-based propellant combo with high-density polyethylene fuel, the control architecture, and the vehicle's structural integrity. CEO Dr. Najwa Aaraj called the launch a defining moment for UAE science and engineering, enabling national launch capability powered by UAE talent. All engine components-injectors, tanks, avionics-were designed, manufactured, and qualified in the UAE. The rocket used carbon-fiber main body and fins and a glass-fiber nosecone to support signals.

Device unlock policies from T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon explained

February 17, 2026, 9:12 AM EST. US carriers use SIM unlock rules to determine when a phone can work on another network. The piece compares the three majors – T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon – and notes different rules for postpaid and prepaid plans. Verizon won an FCC waiver to set its own unlock terms. Phones bought on a device payment plan typically unlock after meeting conditions; fully paid devices from manufacturers are usually unlocked from purchase. T-Mobile's postpaid unlocks are described as consumer-friendly, while prepaid rules may take longer. MVNOs and sub-brands can vary by policy. For flexibility, many buyers choose phones from Samsung, Google or Apple that are unlocked and work across networks, though they often require full price instead of carrier promotions.

iOS 26.4 turns on Stolen Device Protection by default for iPhone users

February 17, 2026, 9:10 AM EST. iOS 26.4 will enable Stolen Device Protection by default on all iPhones, Apple said. The feature, first rolled out in 2023, adds authentication via Face ID or Touch ID to access sensitive actions after a suspected theft. Some actions, such as viewing passwords in iCloud Keychain, turning off Lost Mode, or erasing all data, require biometric verification; others trigger a one-hour security delay and demand two biometrics. Previously, users had to enable the protection manually; Apple notes a familiar-location option could remove delays at home. The update is in developer beta with a public beta expected soon, and a spring public release is planned.

12-hour days, no weekends: AI work culture sparks burnout warnings

February 17, 2026, 9:00 AM EST. New reporting outlines a trend of 12-hour days and no weekends in some AI labs, where anxiety and pressure drive a brutal work culture. Employees describe sprints to meet ambitious milestones, constant performance monitoring, and fear of career setbacks if they pause. Advocates warn such patterns threaten safety, product quality, and long-term talent retention. The stress ties to funding cycles, competitive secrecy, and aggressive timelines, raising questions for managers, investors, and policymakers about sustainable development. Observers urge explicit guardrails on overtime, stronger mental-health support, and clearer work-life expectations to avoid broader industry repercussions. The debate centers on the health of workers and the potential impact on innovation and trust in AI.

Sunrise launches SME Future Ready with redundant internet and cybersecurity

February 17, 2026, 8:58 AM EST. Swiss operator Sunrise launches the SME Future Ready package for small and medium enterprises. The plan combines internet access at 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps and higher with a cybersecurity suite featuring a firewall, advanced malware protection and intrusion detection. It also provides redundancy through the Sunrise 5G mobile network. The service is priced at CHF 149 per month and includes premium support with access to a team of experts for technical inquiries.

Apple tests end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging in iOS 26.4 beta

February 17, 2026, 8:54 AM EST. Apple released an iOS 26.4 developer beta with end-to-end encryption for RCS messages. In testing, conversations labeled encrypted stay protected as they travel between Apple devices, but the feature works only across Apple platforms, not with Android. The move hinges on RCS Universal Profile 3.0 built atop the MLS protocol. The beta also enables applications to opt into full Memory Integrity Enforcement (MIE) for memory safety, beyond Soft Mode. Separately, reports suggest Stolen Device Protection will be enabled by default, requiring Face ID or Touch ID for sensitive actions when the device is away from familiar locations, and adding a one-hour delay before changing Apple Account passwords after a loss report.

Predawn Falcon 9 lights up clouds as SpaceX launches 29 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral

February 17, 2026, 8:52 AM EST. SpaceX's Falcon 9 lit up the predawn skies as it launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, delivering a batch of 29 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. The Feb. 16 mission followed hours of storms and rainfall on Florida's Space Coast, with the rocket painting clouds in vivid color. A second Falcon 9 launch is planned for Wednesday, Feb. 18, from Launch Complex 40, with a window from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. local time. Florida Today's Space Team will provide live coverage about 90 minutes before liftoff at floridatoday.com/space. The paper also offers a broader schedule of upcoming launches at Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center.

Galaxy S26 Ultra selfie camera leak hints at wider FoV, modest rear upgrades

February 17, 2026, 8:50 AM EST. A credible leaker posted selfie specs for the Galaxy S26 Ultra: a 12MP 1/3.2-inch front camera with 1.12-µm pixels and an 85-degree FoV, up from the S25 Ultra's 80-degree field. The sensor matches the S25 Ultra in resolution, suggesting little change to front-camera hardware beyond a wider angle. Rear cameras are not expected to see major upgrades; however, leaks say the 200MP main sensor could gain an f/1.4 aperture and the 50MP 5x periscope might move to f/2.9. The device is said to use Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, an OLED screen with Privacy Display, and 60W wired charging on a 5,000mAh battery. Attribution: Ice Universe on X (h/t SammyGuru).

Android Auto 16.3 beta hints at video apps, light theme work

February 17, 2026, 8:48 AM EST. Google has begun rolling out Android Auto 16.3 through the beta channel. No major user-facing changes are evident, but APK Insight notes two notable flags. One signals ongoing work on a light theme and a potential light/dark theme toggle. The other, CradleFeature_allow_video_apps, points to future video apps support on the car display. Google had announced video apps for Android Auto in May 2025, but a timeline remains unclear. As with other beta findings, these flags may or may not ship. For now, the video apps integration is likely limited to parked vehicles, and there's no word on when, or if, users will see changes in stable releases. Developers and drivers should watch for further updates from Google.

iOS 26.4 beta introduces 'Playlist Playground' AI feature for Apple Music

February 17, 2026, 8:46 AM EST. Apple's first iOS 26.4 developer beta includes a new Apple Intelligence feature for Apple Music called Playlist Playground. The beta lets users generate playlists from text prompts. Access appears via a new playlist icon in the Library page of the Apple Music app. Users can type a description, or choose from built-in New Playlist Ideas prompts, and Apple Music creates a playlist that can be added to the library. Post-creation, users can edit songs, reorder tracks, and iterate with additional prompts without restarting. If the option isn't visible after updating, Apple Intelligence models are still downloading; check Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri. A public beta should arrive in coming weeks.

Android gets local file backup powered by Google Drive

February 17, 2026, 8:44 AM EST. Google says Android is getting a new 'local file backup' feature powered by Google Drive, according to the latest release notes for Google Play services. The feature would automatically save downloaded documents from the device's Downloads folder to Drive, making them accessible on other devices. It is not the same as Android's existing backup for Apps and data, calls, contacts, settings, and messages. Details on how it will work remain unclear. One possibility is uploading every file in Downloads to a new Drive folder named by device. A more complex option would sync a single Downloads folder across devices. The feature appears under Utilities in version 26.06 of Google Play services, and rollout will take time.

Steam Deck OLED stock hit by RAM shortages amid broader memory crunch

February 17, 2026, 8:40 AM EST. Valve says the Steam Deck OLED may be intermittently unavailable in some regions due to a RAM shortage, after reports of stockouts in the US and Japan. The company had warned earlier this month that memory and storage shortages were delaying hardware launches. Valve still aims to ship the Steam Machine, Steam Frame VR headset, and Steam controller in early 2026, but cautions about component availability and pricing. The RAM crunch is rippling through the industry. Bloomberg reported that Sony could delay the PlayStation 6 into 2028 or 2029 and that Nintendo may raise the Switch 2's price later this year. Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa said price moves will consider profitability, installed base, sales trends, and the market. If higher memory prices persist, hardware profitability could be affected, he said.

China's top EV-battery makers to build shared solid-state materials facility in Beijing

February 17, 2026, 8:36 AM EST. China's biggest EV battery makers, led by CATL and SAIC Motor, are forming a shared facility in Beijing to manufacture solid-state electrolyte materials. The project, in the Yanqi Economic Development Zone, will churn out about 25 tons annually and serves as a testing ground rather than a full-scale plant. The effort is led by the Guolian Automotive Power Battery Research Institute with backing from state-owned firms and automakers such as Changan Auto and Dongfeng Motor. It coincides with China's first nationwide solid-state battery guidelines, setting categories and tougher quality rules. Road tests include a Mercedes EQS with Factorial solid-state cells traveling over 745 miles on a single charge. Production could begin in 2027-2028, with broader rollout around 2030, starting in luxury segments.

China expands solid-state battery race: production in 2026, vehicle demonstrations by 2027

February 17, 2026, 8:34 AM EST. China's solid-state battery race has entered early production and pilot deployment in 2026. Multiple suppliers and automakers confirm commercialisation timelines and aim for broad adoption later this decade. No single dominant supplier exists; firms are pursuing different electrolyte chemistries-sulfide, oxide, polymer, and hybrid condensed-state architectures. CATL, the world's largest EV battery maker, is pursuing several paths. Its condensed-state design, a hybrid solid-liquid cell, has reached around 500 Wh/kg in early production, while pilot development of sulfide-based all-solid-state cells targeting 450-500 Wh/kg is planned for 2026 with initial vehicle integration in 2027. BYD is advancing sulfide-based solid-state cells with high-nickel cathodes and silicon-based anodes, aiming about 400 Wh/kg. Demonstrations are slated for 2027, with broader deployment later this decade.

Polar Capital warns AI could pose existential threat to most software firms

February 17, 2026, 8:32 AM EST. Polar Capital's Nick Evans warns that rapid AI growth could render most software firms unsustainable. Evans, whose Polar Capital global technology fund outperformed peers by selling software stocks ahead of the crowd, told Bloomberg that application software faces an existential threat from AI tools that automate routine tasks. Software shares have slumped; an ETF tracking US software is down more than 22% this year, with leaders like Salesforce and ServiceNow down 25%-27%. Polar Capital has sold nearly all holdings in SAP, ServiceNow, Adobe and HubSpot, saying it won't return to those names. Investors should underweight application software and move quickly as models improve and disruption accelerates. In-house AI by clients and higher equity compensation costs add further pressure.

Sateliot, PLD Space to launch Tritó satellites on Miura 5 in first fully private Spanish mission

February 17, 2026, 8:26 AM EST. Sateliot will launch two Tritó satellites on a Miura 5 rocket in 2027, marking the first fully private Spanish mission. The contract, announced Feb. 17, covers 160-kg satellites that will deliver IoT and direct-to-device (D2D) communications for smartphones in civil and defense use. Sateliot, based in Barcelona, plans a 2027 deployment of 16 Tritó units built in a new Barcelona factory; launch plans beyond the contract were not disclosed. PLD Space, headquartered in Elche, is developing Miura 5, capable of more than 500 kg to sun-synchronous orbit, with a first flight expected by year-end. The European Space Agency backed the venture with 169.1 million euros under the European Launcher Challenge to fund launch services and Miura 5 upgrades. The partners tout national and European autonomy and sovereignty.

OroraTech names Ignacio Zuleta CTPO to lead global thermal intelligence push

February 17, 2026, 8:16 AM EST. OroraTech named Dr. Ignacio Zuleta its chief technology and product officer (CTPO), tasking him with building a thermal data space infrastructure for persistent intelligence. Zuleta, who helped pioneer distributed satellite constellations and led large-scale Earth observation programs, will oversee end-to-end technology deployment-from thermal sensors and edge processing to real-time connectivity. He will steer the company's strategy as it expands its leadership in persistent thermal activity monitoring. Zuleta holds a PhD in physical chemistry from Stanford and earlier contributed to the world's first daily high-resolution land-monitoring mission. "Earth Observation is entering a defining moment," he said. OroraTech operates the world's largest network of dedicated thermal sensors for infrared data and wildfire monitoring.

Android 17 beta 1 lands with large-screen refinements and performance tweaks

February 17, 2026, 8:12 AM EST. Android 17 beta 1 has begun rolling out to Pixel devices, delivering performance tweaks and visible design changes. Google enforces orientation and resizing requirements for all apps to improve large-screen and foldable layouts, a move that may disappoint some developers. The update also introduces a new generational garbage collection system to reduce CPU load and memory use, boosting overall speed. Camera transitions gain smoother operation through professional-grade APIs designed to stop freezes when switching lenses. UI tweaks include a slimmer home-screen search bar and the option to replace the AI Mode shortcut inside the bar with translations, weather or dictionary, while you can no longer alter the voice search or Google Lens icons. At a Glance widget removal is finally possible, and the volume panel gains a quick-access settings icon, standardizing volume behavior across apps.

Ricursive Intelligence raises $300 million Series A at $4 billion valuation in four months

February 17, 2026, 8:10 AM EST. Ricursive Intelligence, led by Anna Goldie and Azalia Mirhoseini-CEO and CTO respectively-raised a $300 million Series A at a $4 billion valuation, just four months after its launch. The startup builds AI tools that design chips rather than fabricating them, targeting customers such as Nvidia, AMD and Intel. The founders previously created the Alpha Chip at Google Brain, a project that accelerated chip-layout generation and helped shape several Google TPUs. Nvidia is among investors; Sequoia led a seed round of $35 million. Ricursive aims to automate chip design for both traditional and custom chips, using AI to speed up the process and expand options for chip developers.

NVIDIA expands AI platform into factories, labs and edge data centers

February 17, 2026, 8:02 AM EST. NVIDIA expands its AI platform beyond large data centers into factories, labs and edge infrastructure. The company's new partnerships include Dassault Systèmes to link its computing stack with industrial virtual twins for product and process testing before build. With Opentrons, NVIDIA applies AI and robotics to automated wet labs, targeting faster biotech R&D. Collaborations with EPRI and Prologis focus on distributed micro data centers (5-20 MW) to localize AI workloads and inference closer to data sources. The moves frame NVIDIA as a full-stack AI infrastructure provider, expanding GPUs and software into manufacturing, biotech and distributed edge compute rather than only hyperscale clouds. Regulators, power constraints and rival chipmakers could shape adoption as dependence on NVIDIA grows.

DJI Neo Mini Drone Drops to $149 on Amazon as Stock Clears

February 17, 2026, 7:58 AM EST. Amazon slashed the price of the DJI Neo to $149 from $199, a 25% cut that brings the compact, 135-gram drone to a new low in a month. The Neo targets beginners with eight shooting modes and 4K/30fps video, plus 18 minutes of flight time and 22GB of built-in storage for up to about 55 minutes of 1080p/60fps footage. It weighs less than many smartphones and does not require FAA registration or Remote ID. Voice commands work via the DJI Fly app, and it supports Subject Tracking for hands-free action. The package includes the drone, a battery and guards. The deal is live to all shoppers and runs while stock lasts, marking a Black Friday era price dip.

AI at the edge and Digital ID expand healthcare access

February 17, 2026, 7:56 AM EST. Edge AI processes patient data locally at clinics and on devices, reducing reliance on cloud connectivity and slashing latency. Digital ID schemes authenticate patients and authorize access to records, prescriptions, and telemedicine, helping healthcare reach underserved communities. In rural clinics and mobile health vans, local AI tools interpret images, triage symptoms, and flag urgent cases without sending raw data to central servers. Governments and health systems test interoperable ID architectures that pair biometric or token-based IDs with privacy-preserving tech like local encryption. Challenges remain: protecting sensitive data, ensuring consent, and aligning on standards across vendors. Proponents say edge computing reduces data movement, preserves privacy, and speeds care; critics caution about deployment costs and maintenance in remote areas. The trend aims to widen access while safeguarding security and trust.

Nothing teases mysterious 4a with condom-image, fuels speculation

February 17, 2026, 7:54 AM EST. Nothing's weekend tease signals a forthcoming addition to its (4a) line, with a cryptic image that resembles a condom packet. Fans split between literal interpretation and misdirection. The brand, known for its quirky visuals and the Phone (3), has built a cult following as it tests boundaries of design and branding. Speculation runs from a new 4a chip, to a smart ring, or even an AirTag-like tracker, though Nothing has yet to confirm any product. The post underscores the company's provocative marketing style and keeps investors and fans guessing as the broader Apple vs Android rivalry continues. For more Nothing coverage, read recent hands-on with Ear (3) and notes on the AI Essential strategy.

Apple to unveil iPads and MacBooks at March 4 event

February 17, 2026, 7:52 AM EST. Apple has invited press to an 'Apple Experience' in New York City on March 4 at 9 a.m. ET, with simultaneous events in London and Shanghai reported by MacRumors. The company is expected to unveil new iPads and MacBooks, including a refreshed MacBook Air and 14- and 16-inch models powered by the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, plus a likely entry-level MacBook in pastel colors. A new iPad with an A18 chip and features for Apple Intelligence could surface, along with an iPad Air update using the M4. Apple also plans updated Mac Studio, Studio Display and Mac mini later this year, though a public livestream has not been confirmed.

SpaceX, xAI vie for Pentagon drone-swarming prize, Bloomberg says

February 17, 2026, 7:50 AM EST. SpaceX and its subsidiary xAI are competing in a secret Pentagon contest to produce voice-controlled, autonomous drone swarming (many drones acting together) technology, Bloomberg News reported on Monday, citing people familiar with the matter. SpaceX, xAI, and the Defense Innovation Unit did not respond to requests for comment. Reuters could not independently verify the report. The deal that merged xAI with SpaceX comes ahead of an anticipated IPO. The six-month, $100 million prize aims to translate voice commands into digital instructions to operate multiple drones. Open questions linger about safety and policy, given Musk's past calls for limiting autonomous weapons. The Defense Secretary last year outlined a strategy to accelerate drone development and boost domestic manufacturing.

Qualcomm UK royalties case withdrawn after Which? settlement with no payment

February 17, 2026, 7:48 AM EST. Qualcomm said a London lawsuit alleging it abused its dominant position to force inflated royalties on Apple and Samsung would be withdrawn after a settlement with the claimant group. The case, brought by consumer body Which? on behalf of about 29 million UK device owners, had claimed up to 480 million pounds in compensation under a so-called no licence, no chips policy. Qualcomm said the suit mischaracterised its licensing terms for standard essential patents. Which? said it would withdraw after Qualcomm agreed not to pay the claimant class. The group said Qualcomm's practices did not infringe competition laws or raise prices for consumers, a stance Qualcomm reiterated, noting prior U.S. court rulings on its licensing practices.

Firgun Ventures backs Quantum Elements to accelerate AI-powered quantum software Constellation

February 17, 2026, 7:46 AM EST. Firgun Ventures has made a strategic investment in Quantum Elements, a Los Angeles-based startup developing Constellation, an AI-powered quantum software platform. Constellation blends AI-driven digital twins with hardware-aware simulation, letting researchers design and test quantum circuits before running on physical processors to cut cost, time and risk. Since its cloud launch in October 2025, Quantum Elements has forged partnerships with Rigetti, IBM, Quantum Machines and AWS, and pursued research ties with the National University of Singapore and UCLA. Dr. Chad Rigetti sits on the board. Firgun co-founder Dr. Kris Naudts called the move a statement of faith in the team and the goal of scalable, real-world quantum use cases across finance, pharma and energy. The leadership includes Izhar Medalsy as CEO, Daniel Lidar as CSO, and Amir Yacoby on the board.

SpaceX rocket lights up Southern California sky on Valentine's Day

February 17, 2026, 7:42 AM EST. SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Saturday evening, placing about two dozen Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. The mission produced a bright display visible from Los Angeles and much of Southern California as twilight faded, with the exhaust plume illuminated by the last sunlight. After separation, the first stage landed on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You" in the Pacific. SpaceX plans three more Falcon 9 launches from Vandenberg on Feb. 18, 21 and 25. The Starlink network aims to deliver high-speed internet from roughly 340 miles up; when sunlight reflects off the satellites, observers may see a train-like line across the sky. Use FindStarlink to track viewing times.

OpenClaw hype fades as experts flag security flaws and limited practical use

February 17, 2026, 7:40 AM EST. OpenClaw and its social experiment Moltbook drew a wave of hype as AI agents began to chat with apparent autonomy. Yet experts say the buzz outpaced practicality. Moltbook exposed serious cybersecurity gaps: unsigned tokens and open access allowed impersonation and upvotes without guardrails, making authenticity hard to verify. Andrej Karpathy praised the moment on X, but researchers soon showed the chatter was likely human-guided. John Hammond of Huntress described how anyone could pose as a robot online. The episode mirrors broader questions about OpenClaw's payoff: the tech is novel, but security flaws hamper real use. OpenClaw, from Peter Steinberger (originally Clawdbot), has drawn about 190,000 GitHub stars, signaling viral interest even as experts remain skeptical about durable value.

Apple Podcasts adds seamless audio-to-video switch via HLS; beta rollout begins

February 17, 2026, 7:38 AM EST. Apple will upgrade its Podcasts app to let users seamlessly swap between audio and video using HTTP Live Streaming (HLS). While listening, users can switch to a horizontal video version and download episodes for offline viewing. The feature aims to curb platform hopping as video podcasts gain traction. YouTube says more than 1 billion people watch podcasts monthly; Spotify and Netflix are expanding video podcast strategies too. The updates launch this spring, with betas starting Monday for iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, and visionOS 26.4. HLS video will reach the web version in the spring. Apple says video will integrate seamlessly into existing shows, and creators can monetize via sponsorships and dynamic advertising.

Nvidia earnings on Feb. 25: history of post-earnings moves amid AI rally

February 17, 2026, 7:36 AM EST. Nvidia is set to report Q4 fiscal 2026 results (quarter ended Jan. 25) after the close on Feb. 25. The company has a history of beating earnings estimates, but a beat does not guarantee a stock rally. Nvidia remains a core AI-chips and AI-infrastructure bellwether, and the most valuable stock on the S&P 500. Recent data-center spend by hyperscalers and software firms underpins demand for Nvidia GPUs. CEO Jensen Huang called Blackwell data-center products demand "off the charts," and CES slides described AI compute demand as "insane." For Q4 Nvidia guides revenue about $65 billion and EPS about $1.50; consensus sits near $65.58 billion and $1.52. The guidance notes no China data-center AI chip sales. In the wake, Wall Street's Q1 guidance can swing shares as much as the quarterly print.

Elon Musk: Tesla Aims for the Largest Autonomous-Vehicle Fleet for the Foreseeable Future

February 17, 2026, 7:32 AM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said he envisions the company building the largest fleet of autonomous vehicles for as far into the future as he can imagine. The remark aligns with Tesla's ongoing robotaxi trials in Austin and its push into artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance self-driving features. The race for autonomy includes rivals such as Alphabet's Waymo, which emphasizes a system that exceeds human driving. Tesla relies primarily on cameras, while Waymo references additional sensors. Separately, Nvidia unveiled its Alpamayo model at CES 2026, highlighting a physical AI approach using radar, cameras and LiDAR. The debate over autonomous-insurance liability continues, with investor Jim Chanos questioning partnerships that reduce rates for FSD-driven driving and arguing full self-driving will require manufacturer liability.

Apple @ Work podcast examines SaaS sprawl for Apple IT admins in the AI era

February 17, 2026, 7:30 AM EST. Sponsored by Mosyle, the Apple Unified Platform, the Apple @ Work episode features Justin Etkins of Tropic as they explore SaaS sprawl and what it means for Apple IT admins in the AI era. The discussion covers governance, security, and practical steps as enterprises add more cloud apps. The host frames the issue against device management realities and how tools that centralize deployment, management and protection can help. The guests weigh trade-offs and highlight what to watch as AI accelerates software use. The episode provides a concise snapshot for admins balancing cost, risk and user productivity while navigating increasingly complex app ecosystems.

Top 20 Quantum Internet Terms You Need to Know

February 17, 2026, 7:28 AM EST. The piece outlines essential vocabulary for the coming Quantum Internet era. It describes how researchers aim to connect quantum devices across cities and continents, enabling secure communications and distributed quantum computation. The five entries illustrate core concepts: QKD creates a shared secret key with security guaranteed by quantum laws; Entanglement Distribution underpins most protocols by sharing entangled states between nodes; Quantum Repeater extends reach by swapping entanglement and applying error correction; Quantum Teleportation transfers an unknown quantum state using entanglement and classical communication. National and international programmes are building testbed networks as stepping stones toward this vision.

Mint Mobile pairs 50% off Unlimited Plan with Samsung smartphones as promo nears end

February 17, 2026, 7:26 AM EST. Mint Mobile is hawking a time-limited deal: 12 months of unlimited talk, text, and high-speed 5G/4G data for 50% off. New subscribers can save about $180 for a full year, with the option to pair the plan with a new Samsung device – Galaxy A16 for $1 or Galaxy A17 for $20 – or bring their own phone. The package touts access to the nation's largest 5G network with no data caps, free mobile hotspot, and free calling to Mexico, Canada, and the UK. The offer is prepaid, with no annual contracts and online customer care. Switching is simple: if your phone supports eSIM, activation can take minutes; otherwise Mint mails a free SIM. The deal is nearing its end.

Apple rolls out AirPods Pro 3, Pro 2, and AirPods 4 beta firmware with build 8B5034f

February 17, 2026, 7:18 AM EST. Apple has released a new beta firmware for three AirPods models: AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. The build is 8B5034f. The update first shipped to developers on February 12, and public beta testers began receiving it on February 16. Last year's beta for these models has not yet fed into public releases; currently, public builds show different base versions: AirPods Pro 3 8B34, AirPods Pro 2 8B28, and AirPods 4 8B21. As with other AirPods betas, there's no manual install; owners must opt in via the Settings app and allow the firmware to install in the background. If you've tested the beta, share any changes in the comments.

Amazon Leo signals openness to third-party antennas for satellite internet

February 17, 2026, 6:58 AM EST. A regulatory filing references the Amazon Leo modem module (ALMM), suggesting the service may be opened to third-party antenna hardware. The ALMM could be embedded in equipment used by enterprise and government customers, potentially broadening access to the company's satellite internet network. The disclosure implies Amazon is moving toward an ecosystem where external manufacturers can integrate Leo tech, rather than requiring only Amazon-branded gear. Market watchers note the shift could accelerate deployment, though details on compatibility, certification, and pricing remain unclear.

AI Digital Twins Aid Diabetes, Obesity Care as Employers Seek GLP-1 Alternatives

February 17, 2026, 6:54 AM EST. Rodney Buckley lost 100 pounds in under a year using Twin Health's digital twin program, not GLP-1 drugs. Twin Health, based in Mountain View, blends wearables, AI and on-demand coaching to manage diabetes, prediabetes, and obesity. Participants receive a kit with a continuous glucose monitor, blood pressure cuff, smart scale and fitness tracker; data feed a single app that builds a virtual replica of the user's metabolism-the digital twin. A clinical trial links the approach to better glucose control and weight loss, with savings on medications for employers like Blackstone. Twin's pay-for-outcome model ties compensation to metrics such as lower glucose and weight loss. Users log meals; the app scores foods as green, yellow, or red and personalizes advice.

AI helps civil rights lawyer streamline three federal trials

February 17, 2026, 6:52 AM EST. San Diego civil rights attorney Joseph McMullen turned to artificial intelligence (AI) to manage three federal trials in three months and terabytes of documents. He used AI to organize evidence-documents, location data, photos-and to analyze what the case is about, while preserving the crucial human element: narrative storytelling. He experimented after a prior AI hiccup with ChatGPT that produced a nonexistent case. Now he relies on tools such as Clearbrief and Briefpoint to speed up discovery and trial prep. Yet he says lawyering remains anchored in judgment and storytelling, not automation. The strategy blends data crunching with a human-centred approach to presenting cases against agencies like the FBI and ICE.

Computing Services Market Forecast 2026-2032: Regulatory Adaptation, Vendor Partnerships, and Cross-Functional Collaboration

February 17, 2026, 6:50 AM EST. New data show the Computing Services Market grew from USD 1.01 trillion in 2025 to USD 1.09 trillion in 2026, with a projected CAGR of 9.85% that would push the market to about USD 1.95 trillion by 2032. The trend centers on cloud-native architectures, greater automation, and stronger data governance as firms seek scalable, compliant platforms amid regulatory shifts and procurement challenges. Decision-makers cite operational resilience, cost optimization, and security/privacy as central to vendor selection and architecture. Providers are widening transparency and supporting multi-cloud or hybrid setups, while cross-functional collaboration among procurement, legal, IT, and security reduces risk. The report highlights modular deployment and strategic partnerships as ways to balance flexibility with governance and accelerate innovation, supported by workforce training and governance.

Changan, CATL unveil first mass-production sodium-ion battery passenger EV

February 17, 2026, 6:48 AM EST. Changan Automobile and CATL unveiled what they call the first mass-production sodium-ion battery passenger vehicle, due for sale by mid-2026. The CATL Naxtra cells deliver up to 175 Wh/kg energy density, a 400 km+ range, and strong cold-weather performance down to -50°C. CATL will supply Naxtra across Changan's brands, including Avatr, Deepal, Qiyuan, and UNI. Using a cell-to-pack system and an intelligent BMS, the pack targets ranges above 400 km, with CATL forecasting 500-600 km for pure-electric variants and 300-400 km for range-extended versions as the supply chain matures. Cold resistance is highlighted: discharge power is nearly three times that of LFP at -30°C, and capacity stays above 90% at -40°C. Sodium-ion is touted for abundant materials, recyclability, and energy security.

AI enters health care; nurses weigh trust amid automated protocols

February 17, 2026, 6:42 AM EST. At St. Rose Dominican Hospital in Henderson, Nev., a nurse refused to follow an AI-generated sepsis alert that would have pushed IV fluids into a patient with a dialysis catheter, prompting a doctor to order dopamine instead. The incident illustrates a growing tension in U.S. health care as hospitals embed AI tools-from risk scores to agentic AI that can adjust oxygen or reorder triage-into routine work. Hospitals say AI is a support tool, not a replacement for clinician judgment. Proponents argue automation can ease an exhausted nurses workforce by handling documentation and routine tasks. Critics warn that rigid protocols and prompts can push teams toward compliance even when bedside observations counsel caution. A Utah pilot uses chatbot tech with agentic capabilities to renew prescriptions, highlighting both promise and risk.

Anthropic and Infosys partner to deploy enterprise AI agents for regulated industries

February 17, 2026, 6:40 AM EST. Anthropic and Infosys announced a collaboration to deliver enterprise AI across telecommunications, financial services, manufacturing, and software development. The pact fuses Anthropic's Claude models and Claude Code with Infosys Topaz, a suite of AI-first services, to accelerate software development while meeting governance and transparency requirements in regulated industries. India is a key market for Claude, with Infosys among its first partners in the expanded Indian footprint. The joint effort centers on agentic AI-systems that perform multi-step tasks such as claims processing, code generation, and compliance reviews-via Claude Agent SDK, enabling persistent AI agents across complex workflows. The partners plan industry-specific agents to modernize network operations in telecommunications and support risk management and compliant design in financial services and manufacturing.

Anthropic and Infosys partner to deploy agentic AI across telecom, finance, manufacturing

February 17, 2026, 6:38 AM EST. Anthropic and Infosys announced a collaboration to develop enterprise AI solutions across telecommunications, financial services, manufacturing, and software development. The alliance pairs Anthropic's Claude models and Claude Code with Infosys Topaz, a governance-first AI suite, to accelerate software delivery in regulated industries. A core focus is agentic AI-systems that perform multi-step tasks-built with the Claude Agent SDK to run persistent agents for claims processing, code generation and compliance reviews. India is a key market for Claude, and Infosys is among its first partners in Anthropic's expanded presence there. Executives say the goal is faster, safer AI value realization with stronger governance and legacy-system modernization for global enterprises.

Huawei rolls out one-year video membership for Mate 80 and Mate X7 on Huawei Video app

February 17, 2026, 6:36 AM EST. Huawei is offering a one-year video membership on the Huawei Video app for the Mate 80 and Mate X7 flagship phones. New users can access exclusive web series, classic films, and content from Huawei Movies, Youku Video, and Mango TV for 12 months. The package aligns with Spring Festival 2026 in China and includes a free annual pass and VIP card rights. A banner in the Huawei Video app may trigger a pop-up confirming the benefits, with users urged to update to the latest software to view the offers.

Huawei launches one-year video membership for Mate 80 and Mate X7 on Huawei Video app

February 17, 2026, 6:34 AM EST. Huawei is rolling out a one-year video membership on the Huawei Video app for its flagship Mate 80 and Mate X7 devices. The offer, tied to Spring Festival 2026 in China, gives new users access to exclusive web series and a library of classic films for a full year. The package includes access to Huawei Movies, Youku Video, and Mango TV content, with a free annual pass and VIP card rights. Titles highlighted include Wanami Yokai, The Little Ghost of Mt. Ranran, and Nezha: The Demon Child Conquers the Dragon King. A new banner in the Huawei Video app directs users to a pop-up confirming the benefits, which require the app and device to run the latest software version. This reflects Huawei's push to bundle content with flagship hardware.

India's AI summit marred by queues, confusion as founder alleges stall theft

February 17, 2026, 6:32 AM EST. Delegates at India's AI summit faced long queues and confusion on opening day. Organizers said the event aims to showcase a crowded, fast-moving sector, but attendees described disorganization. Dhananjay Yadav, founder of NeoSapiens, alleged a theft at the venue. He said on X (the platform formerly known as Twitter) that their wearables vanished inside a high-security zone after heavy spending on travel, lodging and exhibition space. The claim adds a security wrinkle to the event's early hours as participants navigate schedules, aisles and checks.

India's AI summit plagued by long queues; NeoSapiens founder alleges booth theft

February 17, 2026, 6:30 AM EST. Delegates at India's AI summit faced long queues and confusion on the opening day. Dhananjay Yadav, founder of wearable AI start-up NeoSapiens, alleged that products from his stall were stolen at the venue and said on X that his team had spent heavily on travel, accommodation and exhibition space, only to have their wearables disappear inside a high-security zone. The claim highlights crowd-management and security challenges at the event as organizers work to keep demonstrations on track.

Fashion executives map AI-driven career reset, reshaping workforce design

February 17, 2026, 6:28 AM EST. Fashion, beauty and retail firms are rethinking careers as AI reshapes tasks and decision-making. A Vogue Business survey of 500 industry contacts, conducted Oct-Dec 2025, finds wide variation in roles and exposure to AI across luxury, mid-level and mass segments. Executives say workforce design is a leadership issue, not just HR. Firms may need new entry routes-rotations, supervised AI use, clearer quality standards and earlier decision-making exposure-while learning models and promotion criteria shift toward judgment and adaptability over pure output. Leaders must plan hybrid human-AI capacity, defining how many roles exist and what they do. Quote: Madgavkar frames the shift as a C-suite leadership challenge, asking whether to shed staff or invest in training to unlock capabilities customers value. The survey's demographics skew female and include owners, freelancers and students.

Starmer pledges smartphone crackdown for under-16s within months

February 17, 2026, 6:20 AM EST. Keir Starmer pledged a crackdown on smartphones for under-16s within months to bolster online safety. Proposals include a minimum age for social media, limits on endless scrolling, and blocking VPNs from accessing pornography, with chatbots restricted under consultation. Ministers aim to close a legal loophole and require AI chatbot providers to comply with the Online Safety Act. The plan follows a clash with Elon Musk after Grok AI produced fake nude images and mirrors a broader push to ensure no platform gets a free pass on child protection. The March consultation will shape legislation under the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, with amendments to the Crime and Policing Bill to curb illegal content in chatbots.

Moltbook's agentic OpenClaw AI promises independence, but autonomy remains a marketing claim

February 17, 2026, 6:18 AM EST. OpenClaw, Moltbook's AI, is pitched as an agentic system that acts like a personal assistant without prompts. Unlike chat models, users install it locally; it can access calendars, messaging apps and files, and a 30-minute heartbeat nudges it to act. Moltbook, launched Jan. 28, 2026 by developer Matt Schlicht, drew tens of thousands of users in days and about 1.5 million bots within a week, with Clawd Clawderberg serving as site administrator. The code is open source, letting people add skills like email checks or meeting scheduling. Researchers flagged hundreds of dangerous skills that could leak sensitive data or trigger a supply-chain attack. In short, autonomy remains more a marketing claim than a proven capability.

Google Messages tests partial-copy feature on Galaxy phones to boost RCS adoption

February 17, 2026, 6:16 AM EST. Google Messages, the default on Samsung Galaxy devices to boost RCS adoption, is testing a partial copy feature in a beta of Google Messages (build 20260212_01_RC00). The update lets users long-press a message, open a redesigned context menu and drag to highlight and copy only a portion of the text-handy when a message includes a phone number, email, or link. The function sits alongside existing options to copy the whole message and other actions. The feature is not yet widely available and a rollout to the stable release could take weeks, Android Authority reported.

AI Agents Gain Efficiency With Dynamic Compute Allocation

February 17, 2026, 6:14 AM EST. Researchers from UC Berkeley and collaborators unveil Confidence-Aware Test-Time Scaling (CATTS) to improve multi-step AI agents. The method allocates compute based on the agent's own uncertainty, using internal signals like entropy and top-vote margins, instead of blindly scaling every step. Uniformly increasing compute yields diminishing returns in long-horizon tasks such as web agents. CATTS concentrates resources where decisions are contentious, avoiding waste on easy steps. Evaluations on WebArena-Lite and GoBrowse show CATTS improves performance by up to 9.1% while using up to 2.3x fewer tokens. Earlier attempts using an external arbiter proved less reliable; CATTS leverages internal voting signals to guide resource distribution. The approach offers more efficient, reliable agentic systems for complex decision chains.

AI-washing rises as firms blame AI for layoffs

February 17, 2026, 6:08 AM EST. U.S. firms are pivoting to belt-tightening in early 2026, with layoffs rising 205% from December to January, according to Challenger, Gray & Christmas. Critics say some executives use AI as cover for broader cuts, a phenomenon dubbed AI-washing, akin to greenwashing. Scott Dylan of NexaTech Ventures notes that AI is cited in only a small share of announcements; drivers include over-hiring during the pandemic, margin pressure, slowing demand, or restructuring. The UPS example shows a yawning gap between rhetoric and reality. Amazon's leaders briefly tied cuts to AI, then shifted to over-hiring and excess layers. AI-washing risks inflating public expectations of what AI can do and lets leaders dodge accountability for strategic missteps. Experts say the tactic favors optics over long-term strategy.

AI-washing rises as firms blame AI for layoffs amid corporate restructuring

February 17, 2026, 5:52 AM EST. U.S. firms cut payrolls in early 2026, with Challenger, Gray & Christmas reporting a 205% jump in layoffs from December to January. Observers say executives often point to AI as the reason for job cuts, a practice critics call AI-washing-blaming technology to mask other issues. Scott Dylan of NexaTech Ventures notes AI is cited in only a minority of the cuts, with drivers including over-hiring, margin pressure, and restructuring. The term borrows from greenwashing and aims to frame unpopular decisions as progress. Analysts warn AI-washing can distort the public's view of what AI can and cannot do, and it can shift accountability away from strategic missteps. CEOs may use the tactic to secure AI-fueled growth later, experts say.

Apple's Face ID doorbell could win over privacy-minded buyers

February 17, 2026, 5:38 AM EST. Apple is expected to refresh its Home lineup with five new products this year, including a video doorbell that uses Face ID and integrates with a smart lock. The move follows a privacy backlash to Ring's ad during the Super Bowl, which highlighted the trade-offs of a connected doorbell network and privacy concerns. Bloomberg reported late last year that Apple is developing a Home video doorbell with facial recognition that could unlock a residence for authorized users, wired to a deadbolt. Apple argues its privacy stance gives it an edge over rivals, potentially encouraging iCloud video storage subscriptions. If launched soon, the product could lure Ring users seeking stronger privacy protections and tighter ecosystem integration.

Texas taps retired EV batteries to bolster grid storage

February 17, 2026, 5:28 AM EST. During midday surges, Texas sees cheap power and 500 retired GM EV batteries are recharged for grid storage. The 24 MWh site near San Antonio interconnects to CPS Energy, marking B2U Storage Solutions' first Texas project, with three more sites planned for a total of 100 MWh and about 3,300 homes powered for a day. The cabinets are plug-and-play and battery-agnostic, accepting Nissan, Honda, Tesla or Ford packs, at under $200 per kWh. Analysts caution growth depends on cheaper options like recycling or exporting; others note declining cell prices reduce incentives for reuse. Freeman Hall says the system is highly scalable and cost-effective.

AI Demand Makes Western Digital HDDs Sold Out Through 2027

February 17, 2026, 5:26 AM EST. Western Digital tells investors it is effectively sold out of hard drives for calendar 2026, with firm purchase orders from its top seven customers, and some agreements extending to 2027 and 2028, according to CEO Irving Tan on the latest earnings call. The shift reflects a renewed AI-driven appetite for data storage. HDDs still offer more storage per dollar and power efficiency for data centers, and WD's enterprise business now accounts for about 89% of revenue, while retail makes up roughly 5%. The outcome is lean consumer availability and a business risk that suppliers and buyers alike are recalibrating to a market where the data center cycle dominates. Consumers may face continued scarcity as AI demand persists.

Health insurers lean on AI to cut costs amid shrinking margins

February 17, 2026, 5:24 AM EST. Health insurers facing shrinking profit margins and higher medical costs are accelerating AI adoption across operations to cut expenses and boost productivity. Casey Ross notes the push comes as executives discuss safety, fairness, and privacy concerns tied to new technologies in medicine. In early-2026 earnings calls, insurers signaled a wave of automation across claims, pricing, and administration. UnitedHealth Group pledged to lean heavily on AI to cut about $1 billion in costs this year, with CEO Steven Helmsley calling it a 'new age of technology' in health care. The article traces how automation aims to speed processing and decision-making, while critics ask for guardrails on data use and accountability. A cautious, results-driven trajectory defines the trend.

Microsoft finds 'Summarize with AI' prompts manipulating chatbot recommendations

February 17, 2026, 5:22 AM EST. Microsoft says legitimate businesses are gaming AI chatbots via the 'Summarize with AI' button. The technique, called AI Recommendation Poisoning by the Defender Security Research Team, amounts to memory poisoning intended to bias answers. The team found over 50 unique prompts from 31 companies across 14 industries in 60 days, asking the AI to remember sources or to rank certain providers higher. The attack uses clickable links with pre-filled prompts in the URL's query string (the '?q=' parameter) from a 'Summarize with AI' button or embedded in emails. When clicked, the prompts tell the assistant to 'remember [X] as trusted' or 'recommend [Y] first.' The disclosures raise concerns about transparency, neutrality, reliability and trust in critical areas like health, finance and security.

Apple's iPhone 17e due next week with Dynamic Island, $599 price and A19 chip

February 17, 2026, 5:20 AM EST. Apple is launching the iPhone 17e as an entry-level model to broaden iOS reach. The 6.1-inch device runs at 60Hz and uses an aluminum chassis, with color options including black, white, and lavender. It could debut Dynamic Island, supplanting the traditional notch on higher-end models, though its 60Hz refresh won't satisfy demanding users. Power comes from the A19 chip paired with 8GB RAM, and a 4,000mAh battery supports all-day use. The camera setup centers on a 48MP rear system and an 18MP front camera with Center Stage for video calls. Priced at $599, the iPhone 17e targets casual users, younger buyers, and upgrade seekers while trading features for affordability.

Samsung Galaxy S26 software leak hints at 9 One UI 8.5 upgrades ahead of Unpacked 2026

February 17, 2026, 5:18 AM EST. Leaked details ahead of Samsung's Galaxy S26 launch outline 9 software upgrades in One UI 8.5. The update tightens core UI elements with a more compact back button, a simplified search bar, and a floating tab bar that replaces the previous navigation. Colors gain semi-transparent enhancements for better visibility, and a customizable quick panel expands user control over UI layout. System apps such as Clock and Gallery receive redesigned interfaces, smoother animations, and a rounded bottom bar. Power saving gets a revamp, and the lock screen adapts with fewer design constraints. The phone ships with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and an enhanced NPU for Generative AI features, including object removal and privacy display. Further features are expected at Unpacked 2026.

The Space Review: IDSCS – pragmatic path to U.S. military satellite communications

February 17, 2026, 5:16 AM EST. After a failed Advent program, the U.S. Air Force turned to a simpler, faster path for military satellite communications. In the late 1950s, the Army handled satellite avionics while the Air Force supplied launchers. Advent grew unwieldy and was cancelled by 1962, pushing a lightweight, medium-altitude alternative-Program 369, later IDSCS. The plan called for up to 20 small satellites in medium, random orbits, with 4 channels at first, using Atlas-Agena D boosters. Philco manufactured the compact satellites, which carried photovoltaic arrays and tested on site. IDSCS represented a pragmatic, smaller-scale solution that kept the military's evolving comms capability on track while higher-capacity geosynchronous systems were delayed.

EU privacy watchdog opens probe into Elon Musk's X over sexualised AI images

February 17, 2026, 5:14 AM EST. The European Union's network of privacy authorities has opened a joint probe into Elon Musk's X regarding the handling of sexualised AI-generated images on the platform. The investigation will examine compliance with EU data protection rules and potential misuse of user data to train AI models. The inquiry is coordinated by the European Data Protection Board and involves several national DPAs. X has said it will cooperate. Investigators will request documents on data retention, moderation policies, and user controls. The outcome could lead to enforcement actions or guidelines for platform policies and training data sources.

Pasqal delivers Italy's first 140-qubit neutral-atom quantum computer to CINECA

February 17, 2026, 5:08 AM EST. Pasqal has delivered Italy's first 140-qubit neutral-atom quantum computer to CINECA at the DAMA Technopole, boosting Europe's hybrid HPC plan. Funded by the Italian Ministry of University and Research and the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking, the device will integrate with the Leonardo pre-exascale supercomputer, letting researchers run materials science and ML tasks on a quantum processor while Leonardo handles data. Antonio Zoccoli, president of the ICSC Research Center, called the milestone a global leap for Italy. Pasqal CEO Loïc Henriet said the deployment cements Europe's hybrid HPC-quantum infrastructure and underscores Pasqal's role as a key European quantum provider. Full integration is expected in the coming months.

EV Battery Technology Market to Reach $156.95B by 2031, Led by BYD, CATL, LG Energy, Panasonic and Samsung

February 17, 2026, 5:02 AM EST. Global EV battery technology market valued at USD 98.65 billion in 2025 is forecast to reach USD 156.95 billion by 2031, a CAGR of 8.05%, according to ResearchAndMarkets. The market remains highly consolidated, with Asian manufacturers accounting for more than 60% of installed capacity and several Chinese firms among the top 10. Leading players-BYD, CATL, LG Energy, Panasonic and Samsung SDI-are expanding cell factories worldwide to secure supply and push multi-chemistry offerings. Trends include the rise of sodium-ion batteries, praised for cost, safety and cold-weather performance, and the rapid buildout of gigafactories driven by EV mandates and urbanization. Companies pursue long-term contracts, solid-state roadmaps, fast charging, and partnerships with software and material suppliers to maintain market position.

Aluminium-based EV battery shows cold-weather promise in early trials

February 17, 2026, 5:00 AM EST. Researchers in Dalian, China, are testing a liquid-solid battery that reportedly preserves over 85% of its capacity after eight hours at −34°C. Separately, a CAS team has tested an aluminium-based wide-temperature lithium-ion cell in a Geely EX5, claiming >92% discharge efficiency at −25°C and near-full charging (about 90%) in 20 minutes. The car sat idle at −25°C for 24 hours before a city-drive test. Both efforts aim to widen the battery operating temperature range and improve cold-weather performance, reducing range loss and speeding charging. BYD and CATL are pursuing ultra-fast charging, but sustaining performance at sub-zero temps remains a hurdle. If scalable, these designs could ease winter range anxiety and expand EV use in cold regions.

GM EVs extend power roles with Vehicle-to-Load and Vehicle-to-Home

February 17, 2026, 4:58 AM EST. GM is highlighting Vehicle-to-Load (offboard power) and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) capabilities in its Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac EVs. In one case, a GMC Sierra Denali EV equipped with the Power Station Pro delivered up to 10.2 kilowatts to light a two-yard PTA fundraiser, using only a sliver of battery and avoiding trips over cords. In another, GM Energy's Home System combines a PowerShift charger, a PowerBank and a Home Hub and Inverter to power essentials during outages. User Carolyn Bollozos notes the system kept her Michigan home lit through freezing weather. GM officials say these demos show how EVs can back up homes and events, expanding the role of electrified vehicles beyond driving and underscoring the company's push into energy storage and reliability.

Apple TV adds dedicated Formula 1 channel ahead of first race

February 17, 2026, 4:56 AM EST. Apple's Apple TV app now features a dedicated Formula 1 channel in the United States, letting subscribers stream all races starting with the Melbourne Grand Prix on March 8. The channel sits in the living-room sidebar and on tv.apple.com, with a shortcut on iPhone and quick links to race sessions, historic clips and the weekend schedule. F1 is included in the base Apple TV subscription in the US, with free streaming of practice sessions across the season; some race weekends may be fully behind the paywall. Twenty-four races in 2026 require an Apple TV subscription, potentially via Apple One or carrier bundles. The package also includes the F1.TV Premium option at no extra charge through the F1.TV app and site. Apple and F1 outline a five-year partnership with expansion in other regions.

Geely EX5 aluminium-based battery passes -13°F cold test with 92% efficiency and 20-minute fast charge

February 17, 2026, 4:52 AM EST. Scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences integrated an aluminium-based, wide-temperature lithium-ion battery into a production Geely EX5 EV and subjected it to a 24-hour cold soak at -13°F (-25°C) before real-world city driving. The test, conducted in Heilongjiang, showed the aluminium-based battery maintaining more than 92% discharge efficiency during urban use, a contrast to typical lithium-ion cells that sag in cold weather. Fast-charging remained robust: the Geely EX5 reached about 90% state of charge in ~20 minutes in sub-zero temperatures, with no external heaters or insulation required; the battery's own thermal management handled charging safely. The design swaps graphite for an alloy-modified aluminium negative electrode, improving ion movement in cold conditions. Laboratory data claim an operating range from -94°F to +176°F.

Huawei, Vivo test 7-inch phones as potential phablet revival draws debate

February 17, 2026, 4:50 AM EST. DigitalChatStation says Huawei and Vivo are testing 7-inch large-screen smartphones, signaling a potential return of the phablet class as brands weigh how big phones should get amid tablets and foldables. The debate centers on whether consumers want a device with a 7-inch display, with some arguing a 16:9 aspect offers more usable viewing area than 21:9. Others point to easier typing and room for bigger batteries without compromising cameras. Huawei already shipped a 6.96-inch Mate 70 Air last year; Vivo has teased a larger-display model in its MAX line. The X Note from 2022 showed such devices can exist. Whether Huawei or Vivo will launch a true 7-inch in the market remains unclear; Honor is testing folded-camera designs, leaving the space unsettled.

Could AI Become Smarter Than Humans? CNN Podcast Debates AGI

February 17, 2026, 4:48 AM EST. Clare Duffy hosts a CNN podcast discussion on artificial general intelligence, asking whether humanity can-and should-build an AI as smart as or smarter than people. The episode features Nick Frosst, co-founder of Cohere, in a live New York talk about the promises and perils of AGI. They explore feasibility, timing, and design choices, including whether the industry should deprioritize chasing AGI in favor of safer, practical AI tools. Frosst argues that the field has to balance ambition with caution, noting the ongoing debate among researchers and the public about an existential threat. The conversation, recorded at Ludlow House, frames the question through timelines cited by figures like Sam Altman, while grounding it in real-world work and risk assessment.

Parcel Perform launches AI Visibility Index to track how AI shopping assistants recommend e-commerce brands

February 17, 2026, 4:46 AM EST. Parcel Perform, a global AI-powered delivery experience platform, launched the AI Visibility Index for E-Commerce Brands, the first public benchmark measuring which retailers AI shopping assistants actually recommend. The Index tracks purchase-intent prompts and ranks the top 10 brands weekly across eight industries in the US, UK and Germany. It reports three scores: Visibility Score (0-100%), LLM Ranking (1-10) and Brand Trust Score (-/+100%). Officials say current tools miss product-category granularity and actual recommendations. The Index also publishes pre-built prompt libraries so brands can see which questions drive visibility. The aim is to give brands sharper visibility into how AI assistants influence shopping and where gaps may exist.

Massachusetts lawmakers push AI-disclosure rules for political ads

February 17, 2026, 4:44 AM EST. Massachusetts lawmakers are moving to curb AI-generated content in political ads. A radio spot that imitates Gov. Maura Healey without disclosure shows the risk of deepfakes in campaigns. The state has no current campaign-finance rule on AI in ads; a 2024 measure expired. The Massachusetts House on Feb. 11 advanced two bills: one would require a disclaimer that an ad 'contains content generated by AI' and impose fines up to $1,000; the second would bar the intentional distribution of 'materially deceptive' audio or video within 90 days of an election, with a right to sue for injunctions. Nationally, 24 of 26 states regulate deepfakes, per the National Conference of State Legislatures. The FCC proposed broadcaster-disclosure rules in 2024, but they were never implemented.

Orbex collapse not derailing UK domestic launch capability

February 17, 2026, 4:42 AM EST. London – Orbex's collapse is not expected to derail the UK's push to build a domestic launch capability. Industry officials and policymakers say other programmes and private ventures will compensate for the exit. NASASpaceFlight's framing of the story reflects a broader effort to retain spaceport readiness and supplier diversity. Observers note ongoing government backing for the UK Space Agency's strategy and continued investment in multiple launch developers. The net message: the UK's domestic launch capability remains a priority, even with the loss of a high-profile participant. Timelines remain uncertain, but momentum persists across several players, keeping the aim of a homegrown rocket capability alive.

Umbra Expands to Reston, Virginia with 20,000-SF Facility

February 17, 2026, 4:38 AM EST. Umbra, the Santa Barbara-based satellite maker, announced a 20,000-square-foot facility in Reston, Virginia, expanding its coast-to-coast footprint. The project, supported by a $6.75 million investment, will create more than 100 jobs in Fairfax County. Umbra Chief Executive Officer David Langan said the expansion strengthens the company's ability to deliver resilient space systems and accelerate U.S. innovation in remote sensing and national security. Virginia officials highlighted the collaboration with the Commonwealth, including a $500,000 Opportunity Fund grant approved by Gov. Abigail Spanberger and support from the Virginia Jobs Investment Program for employee training. Umbra specializes in modern mesh antenna technology and synthetic aperture radar satellites that can see through clouds, serving commercial and military customers. The company has additional offices in Austin and the D.C. area and last year expanded Santa Barbara operations to 50,000 square feet.

SpaceX completes water-deluge test at Starbase ahead of March 2026 Starship Flight 12

February 17, 2026, 4:34 AM EST. SpaceX conducted a full-duration water deluge test at Starbase's Orbital Launch Pad 2 in Boca Chica, Texas, ahead of Starship Flight 12. The test replicates heat, acoustic, and thrust loads from the 33 Raptor engines planned for the Super Heavy booster, safeguarding the pad after damage in earlier flights. The exercise backs Booster 19, currently in cryogenic proof testing after rapid stacking, and aims for a maiden suborbital flight of Starship V3 hardware from Pad 2. The deluge, potentially about 350,000 gallons, targets safety for reusability toward Mars ambitions and NASA Artemis contracts. Targeted for early March 2026, Flight 12 would validate Block 3 hardware, with Raptor V3 engines and enhanced heat shields. SpaceX seeks a higher cadence in 2026 amid Florida barge trials.

Alberta AI chatbot DAVID offers legal aid in personal injury cases

February 17, 2026, 4:30 AM EST. DAVID, a chatbot from Painworth, answers calls about personal injury claims in Alberta before the ring ends. The AI greets callers, records the conversation, asks for details, and sketches possible outcomes and fees. Each client is overseen by Painworth's three human lawyers. Co-founder Michael Zouhri, who studied data science, says the service launched after his own drunk-driving accident in 2019. Angela Lee of the University of Alberta notes AI-powered tools are among those the Law Society of Alberta has greenlit. The society loosened rules to allow Painworth to operate; exemptions cover ownership and unauthorized practice in a controlled Innovation Sandbox. The system is limited to Alberta, with other firms like Philer and Jointly testing AI services.

Edison.Watch unveils Deterministic AI Security Framework to curb data leaks

February 17, 2026, 4:20 AM EST. At Web Summit Qatar, Edison.Watch announced a security framework to prevent confidential data exposure by autonomous AI agents. The Deterministic agentic AI Security Framework introduces Agentic RBAC-agent-aware access controls that extend traditional RBAC to AI workflows. The system tracks data entering AI processes and enforces outbound data restrictions to stop unauthorized exports via emails, messaging, file shares or external apps, while allowing approved internal processing. It centers on data intake tracking, real-time monitoring, and centralized auditing to deter policy violations before incidents occur. The framework addresses a growing security gap as enterprises deploy agents with system permissions capable of moving data across clouds. Edison.Watch notes that human-centric security lacks context; autonomous AI follows instructions, making proactive governance essential.

Doctor trains AI to do her job as reinforcement-learning market nears $17 billion

February 17, 2026, 4:12 AM EST. Doctors like Dr. Alice Chiao are joining a booming economy in which experts train AI through reinforcement learning, grading responses to improve models. The field, a growing service business for frontier AI labs, is estimated near $17 billion, according to PitchBook's Dimitri Zabelin. Chiao works with Mercor, a firm coordinating experts across medicine, law and finance to guide AI systems. Some experts earn hundreds of dollars per hour. Chiao says the goal is to keep information accurate and safe, letting physicians spend more time with patients rather than filling out forms. She envisions AI assisting with reading scans, charting notes and routine tasks, not replacing clinicians but taking on duties that free doctors to listen and engage.

NSF launches $100 million National Quantum and Nanotechnology Infrastructure program

February 17, 2026, 4:08 AM EST. The U.S. National Science Foundation announced a $100 million program to build a national Quantum and Nanotechnology Infrastructure. The aim is to create shared facilities, support cross-disciplinary collaboration, and strengthen workforce training in quantum information science and nanoscale engineering. NSF officials say the initiative will connect universities, national laboratories, and industry partners to accelerate real-world applications and sustain U.S. leadership in these fields. Details on governance and allocations will be released in coming months.

Best fitness tracker of 2026: Fitbit Charge 6 tops the field

February 17, 2026, 4:06 AM EST. Among band- and watch-style wearables, the Fitbit Charge 6 stands out as the top fitness tracker overall. It pairs a color AMOLED display with a new physical button, 40 sport modes, and an updated heart-rate sensor, plus on-device tracking. It offers ECG, skin temperature, SpO2, sleep, and Fitbit's Readiness and Stress scores, with Google app integrations and Wallet support. On the downside, built-in GPS is unreliable for precise route tracking, and heart-rate broadcasting is limited. Battery life remains solid for a tracker, though GPS-heavy workouts drain it faster. The Charge 6 sits below Pixel Watch 3 for full smartwatch features, making it a strong pick for dedicated wellness tracking rather than smart assistant use. Other brands push features, but the Charge 6 remains compelling.

Adani to invest $100 billion in AI data centers in India over next decade

February 17, 2026, 3:58 AM EST. New Delhi – Adani Group unveiled plans to invest $100 billion to build renewable-energy-powered AI-ready data centers by 2035, aiming to form the world's largest integrated platform. The move targets a $250 billion AI infrastructure ecosystem in India and is expected to spur an additional $150 billion in spending across server manufacturing, sovereign cloud platforms, and related industries. The plan builds on AdaniConnex's existing 2 GW national data center, with a target of 5 GW, and leverages a partnership with Google. Gautam Adani, chairman, said the industry is entering an 'Intelligence Revolution.' The announcement coincides with India's AI Impact Summit, billed as a major international AI gathering in the Global South.

iOS 26.4 beta arrives with AI-generated playlists in Apple Music

February 17, 2026, 3:56 AM EST. Apple's iOS 26.4 beta went to developers this week, arriving a week after 26.3. The update does not include the Gemini-powered Siri, focusing instead on refinements to Apple Music and Podcasts and testing end-to-end RCS encryption for text messages. Apple Music gains a redesigned interface with full-screen artwork and local concert data, plus a new feature that generates AI-generated playlists from text prompts. The feature, dubbed Playlist Playground, lets users describe a mood or era, producing a 25-song starter set that can be refined further. The beta is limited to developers for now, with a wider public release expected in coming weeks.

Musk sought early Nvidia DGX-1 unit for OpenAI in 2016 email, trial reveals

February 17, 2026, 3:32 AM EST. New court-documents from the 2026 Elon Musk-OpenAI trial reveal an April 2016 email in which Musk asks Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang for an early DGX-1 unit for OpenAI. OpenAI was described as an independent non-profit funded by Musk and others to develop safe AGI. Huang replied six days later, saying he had not forgotten and that OpenAI would get one of the first DGX-1s; Nvidia warned shipments would begin end of the next month, with delivery in September. Later that year, Huang personally delivered the first DGX-1 to OpenAI in San Francisco. The DGX-1, roughly the power of 250 conventional servers, underpinned the early OpenAI models that evolved into ChatGPT. Musk praised Huang for the partnership in subsequent posts.

Assassin's Creed Shadows Winter Roadmap adds Parkour Challenge, stats page, and Switch 2 Claws of Awaji release

February 17, 2026, 3:30 AM EST. Ubisoft released the Winter Roadmap for Assassin's Creed Shadows, with immediate additions tomorrow: a community Parkour Challenge, a full manual jump toggle via Advanced Parkour Options, and a detailed stats page aimed at min-maxers. The Parkour Challenge invites players to craft a one-shot run (45-60 seconds) in any Shadows location, upload it to YouTube by March 8, then share on X with #ACShadowsParkourChallenge, with prizes and potential social features. Looking ahead, Switch 2 players get the Claws of Awaji expansion on March 10, adding a new region, weaponry, outfits, bosses, and over 10 hours of content. The game marks its first anniversary on March 20 with livestreams and giveaways. Ubisoft notes Shadows' strong debut and a Switch 2 release helped growth; leadership changes and a Netflix adaptation remain in flux.

UK town Potters Bar at center of AI data-centre expansion

February 17, 2026, 3:16 AM EST. Residents of Potters Bar and nearby South Mimms have mobilized against a planned industrial-scale data center on farmland, arguing it would erase green space and disrupt countryside life. A local Facebook group drew more than 1,000 members after the September 2024 planning application; planners granted permission in January 2025. In October, multinational operator Equinix bought the site and plans to break ground this year. The dispute underscores a wider push by the UK government to expand data center capacity to support AI training and applications. Officials have reclassified parts of the old green belt as grey belt-land where development is easier-while designating data centers as critical national infrastructure. Across the world, developers face resistance as AI infrastructure grows.

Spain to probe X, Meta, TikTok over AI-generated child sexual abuse material

February 17, 2026, 3:08 AM EST. Spain will probe X, Meta and TikTok after prosecutors were ordered to examine claims they spread AI-generated child sexual abuse material, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Tuesday. He wrote on X that the platforms undermine children's mental health, dignity and rights and that the state cannot tolerate impunity by these giants. The move follows a broader push to curb online abuse, including a proposed ban on social media access for users under 16. The probe centers on content generated by artificial intelligence, or AI – a term for material created by machines rather than by people. Officials gave no timeline or charges, but the review underscores regulator concerns about platform safety.

SpaceX launches Starlink satellites from California and Florida, boosting constellation to over 9,600 units

February 17, 2026, 2:58 AM EST. Two SpaceX launches carried a total of 53 Starlink satellites into orbit over two days. A 24-satellite batch (Group 17-13) lifted off from SLC-4E at Vandenberg on Feb. 14; a 29-satellite batch (Group 6-103) followed from SLC-40 at Cape Canaveral on Feb. 16. Both missions used a Falcon 9 rocket, and both first stages landed on drone ships, the Pacific's Of Course I Still Love You and the Atlantic's A Shortfall of Gravitas. Booster 1081 completed its 22nd flight; Booster 1090 reached its 10th reuse. SpaceX says Starlink now includes more than 9,600 active units, delivering broadband and enabling cell-to-satellite and certain in-flight wifi services. Monday marked SpaceX's 19th Falcon 9 flight of the year and 602nd in history.

I tested Apple Maps for a week against Google Maps after iOS 26

February 17, 2026, 2:56 AM EST. Over a week, the writer compared Apple Maps with Google Maps in driving-returning to Google as a default. Apple Maps has closed the gap since its 2012 flaws in coverage and labeling, with stronger 3D city rendering and better local data in some regions. In North America, the two apps are largely interchangeable for routing, while Google still holds an edge internationally. A new iOS 26 feature, Preferred Routes, uses on-device tracking to suggest the route you typically take rather than purely computed options, addressing a familiar pitfall for long-time drivers. The author notes timing: unless Apple makes additional major additions, Google Maps remains the preferred long-term choice. Context: the piece blends practical testing with caveats and personal usage patterns.

Activist investor says AI could unlock value at Japan's largest toilet maker

February 17, 2026, 2:38 AM EST. An unnamed activist investor argues that Japan's largest toilet maker is undervalued and could gain from adopting artificial intelligence across product design, manufacturing, and services. The call comes as AI-linked efficiency and data-driven decision making reshape consumer hardware firms. Proponents say automation, predictive maintenance, and smarter supply chains could lift margins and speed time-to-market. The investor spotlights potential for new AI-enabled features in bathroom fixtures and improved aftermarket services. No immediate change in ownership was disclosed. Analysts caution that meaningful gains depend on governance, capital allocation, and how quickly the company can scale AI initiatives.

DJI Avata 360 rumors intensify as Insta360's Antigravity A1 looms

February 17, 2026, 2:36 AM EST. Fresh leaks push the DJI Avata 360 closer to a launch, positioning DJI's first 360-degree drone against Antigravity A1. Rumors trace back to May 2025, with renewed chatter in August and December after Insta360 teased the A1. Key questions linger: pricing relative to the A1, whether DJI will bundle goggles like the DJI Goggles N3, and if the model can clear the U.S. market amid an FCC ruling that heightens scrutiny for foreign-made drones. The ruling, announced in December 2025, bans new foreign-made drone imports to the U.S., though existing models remain on sale. DJI's timing remains unclear, and country-by-country rules will shape the product's roll-out.

Musk reorganizes xAI after SpaceX merger ahead of blockbuster IPO

February 17, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. Elon Musk reorganized xAI's management after the company merged with SpaceX and ahead of an anticipated IPO. The shake-up follows co-founders Tony Wu and Jimmy Ba resignations, leaving about half of the startup's original 12 founders. Musk framed the move as aligning leadership with scale as xAI competes with OpenAI and Google across language, image, and video tools. The company said it can draw on a claimed 1 million Nvidia H100 GPU-equivalent training units to lure researchers, and SpaceX aims to build orbital data centers to support growth. Grok traffic remains a distant third, with about 3.4% of generative AI traffic versus 64.5% for ChatGPT and 21.5% for Gemini, according to January data from Similarweb. SpaceX has said it plans to acquire xAI to create a roughly $1.25 trillion company with an IPO later this year.

Korean internet banks target Gen Alpha as digital Lunar New Year gifting grows

February 17, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. Industry data show teen-focused products at online lenders surged during the last Lunar New Year. KakaoBank Mini rose 283% month-over-month, while K Bank's Alpha Card grew 227%. KakaoBank Mini targets ages 7-18, with a 500,000 won holding limit and a prepaid card linking to T-money transit recharges. Its Our Kids Service, launched in September, has drawn about 10% of South Korea's newborns within four months. Other lenders rebrand teen offerings as Alpha and Youth; Toss Bank's Kids Account surpassed 1 million accounts, a domestic first. Analysts say this Gen Alpha cohort is a strategic entry point to lock in customers early and build lifelong loyalty.

India targets up to $200 billion in data centers to fuel AI hub ambitions

February 17, 2026, 2:20 AM EST. India aims to mobilize up to $200 billion in data centers investments as it builds an AI hub. Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the plan underpins New Delhi's push for a trusted, scalable AI ecosystem delivering measurable impact. The AI Impact Summit in New Delhi brings a global tech lineup. Google pledged $15 billion to create its first AI hub in India, while Microsoft committed $17.5 billion to expand cloud and AI infrastructure over four years. Amazon has promised $35 billion by 2030 to push AI-driven digitization. India has granted a long-term tax holiday for data centers and launched a shared computing facility with about 38,000 GPUs for startups and researchers. The push underscores the stakes in the global AI race and the role of foreign capital.

Google patches Chrome zero-day after in-the-wild exploits surface

February 17, 2026, 2:18 AM EST. Google rolled out an emergency Chrome patch after attackers exploited a first 2026 zero-day. The issue, CVE-2026-2441, is a high-severity (CVSS 8.8) use-after-free bug in Chrome's CSS handling that can allow remote code execution in the browser sandbox via a crafted page. Patches arrive as version 145.0.7632.75 for Windows and Mac and 144.0.7559.75 for Linux; Google says the update will roll out in coming days/weeks. Security researcher Shaheen Fazim reported the flaw on February 11; Google confirmed in-the-wild exploitation two days later and kept specifics under wraps. The company warned more details would be released only after most users are patched, a standard practice. The incident follows last year's wave of exploited Chrome bugs and data leakage from extensions.

Partner launches repair service for headphones and smartwatches in Israel

February 17, 2026, 1:54 AM EST. Tel Aviv-based Partner launched a repair service for headphones and smartwatches, a first-of-its-kind in the Israeli market. The move expands its end-user equipment strategy after a price-matching step with the KSP network. Under the plan, AirPods 4+ and Samsung Galaxy Buds Core+ owners can join at NIS 19.9 per month, with a first faulty earbud replacement free and a 50% discount on a second malfunction. A similar option covers Apple Watch SE 3 and Samsung Watch 8+ at NIS 26.9 monthly, with identical terms. The company also updates its mobile repair system for flagship devices, introducing family pricing that starts at NIS 39.9 for one device and falls to NIS 24.9 per device for four. It operates 27 laboratories nationwide with certified technicians, offers on-site repairs and home delivery, and will enroll subscribers in the Private Care Plus club for accessory and device discounts.

Apple tests end-to-end encryption for RCS in iOS 26.4 beta

February 17, 2026, 1:50 AM EST. Apple's iOS 26.4 developer beta includes an early test of end-to-end encryption for RCS messages. The feature is enabled by default but beta testers can opt out. Apple says the encryption will not roll out with iOS 26.4 itself and will arrive in a future iOS 26 update. In this initial phase, testing is not cross-platform; only iPhone users who have iMessage disabled can participate. A visible lock icon will indicate encrypted messages. Note that iMessage has offered end-to-end encryption since 2011. The move signals a step toward cross-platform security, though practical testing and wider rollout remain pending.

Meta patents AI that can simulate a deceased user's social media presence

February 17, 2026, 1:48 AM EST. Meta has been granted a patent for an AI system that can recreate a person's social media presence after death or during long absences. A large language model would analyze past posts, chats, voice messages and other interactions to mimic the user and potentially publish updates or reply to others on Facebook and Instagram. Meta says the patent is conceptual and there are no plans to move forward. The idea echoes Mark Zuckerberg's hints about AI replicas of deceased relatives but emphasizes consent and avoids a production plan. The concept raises ethics questions and parallels startup tools; Business Insider reported on the filing, and Lex Fridman has discussed similar ideas.

DJI drones discounted on Presidents' Day sale, Mini and Avata 2 hit record lows

February 17, 2026, 1:34 AM EST. Presidents' Day sales push two beginner-friendly DJI drones to record lows on Amazon. The ultra-light DJI Mini offers 4K video, 31 minutes of flight time, three-axis stabilization and features such as one-tap takeoff and automatic return, now at $149 (down from $199). For FPV fans, the DJI Avata 2 is discounted to a record $619; the Fly Smart Combo bundles goggles, controller and extra batteries for a complete FPV setup. The 2025 ban restricts newly imported drones, but existing inventory, including the Neo and Avata 2, remains unaffected. Both models are under 249g, so they typically don't require pre-flight registration, while heavier drones enable faster flight and longer footage. See our full DJI Neo review and DJI Avata review.

Maine wins nearly $49 million BEAD grant to extend high-speed internet to 22,000 homes

February 17, 2026, 1:32 AM EST. Federal funding of $48.5 million will extend high-speed internet to about 22,000 Maine homes and businesses, the Maine Connectivity Authority said. The grant comes under the National Telecommunications and Information Administration's BEAD program, short for Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment; the program aims to connect hard-to-reach areas to networks defined as at least 100 Mbps download / 20 Mbps upload. The authority had been allocated 272 million under BEAD but revisions last year reduced the award; Maine officials say this will be the state's only BEAD award. About 6,000 of the target connections are in Aroostook County, where roughly 75% of residents currently have service. The effort reflects a broader federal push to map and fund internet access, with NTIA and FCC involvement.

Infosys and Anthropic strike cross-industry enterprise AI partnership

February 17, 2026, 1:24 AM EST. Infosys and Anthropic announce a multi-industry enterprise AI partnership built around Claude models and Infosys Topaz. A dedicated Anthropic Center of Excellence will start in telecommunications to tailor AI agents for industry operations, then expand to financial services, manufacturing and software development. The effort blends Anthropic's Claude family with Infosys' Topaz to automate complex workflows, speed software delivery and improve governance in regulated sectors. Agentic AI systems, enabled by the Claude Agent SDK, will handle long, multi-step tasks such as processing claims, code generation, and compliance reviews. The alliance also targets modernization of legacy systems, accelerating migration and reducing upgrade costs, with industry-specific applications across telecom, financial services, manufacturing and software development.

SpaceX Starlink crackdown slows Russian attacks on Ukraine, officials say

February 17, 2026, 1:20 AM EST. SpaceX blocked unauthorized Starlink terminals in Ukraine on Feb 1 after finding them mounted on Russian weapons and drones, restricting access to verified Ukrainian devices and barring offensive use. Ukrainian Lt. Denis Yaroslavsky said the shutdown reduced assault operations for three to four days. US and Ukrainian intelligence officials told The Washington Post the disruption coincided with rising Russian casualties. A unit commander code named Jackie said his sector went from about 20 to 1 casualties before the outage to higher rates after, with 13 to 1 cited for regular units. In Kupiansk, some accounts put the ratio at 27 to 1 in Russia's favor. CSIS puts the total Russian dead, wounded or vanished since February 2022 at over 1.2 million.

Valve's Steam Deck OLED may be intermittently out of stock due to RAM and storage shortages

February 17, 2026, 1:18 AM EST. Valve updated its Steam Deck product page to say the Steam Deck OLED may be out of stock intermittently in some regions due to memory and storage shortages. The handheld has been unavailable in the US and other markets for several days. Valve also delayed its planned 2026 hardware lineup-Steam Machines, Steam Frame, and Steam Controller-as it grapples with the memory and storage crunch. The maker aims to ship new hardware in the first half of 2026, contingent on improving components and pricing. Separately, Valve no longer produces the 256GB LCD Steam Deck, a change announced late last year. The situation underscores ongoing supply constraints in RAM and storage components that ripple through PC gaming hardware.

Pentagon weighs cutting Anthropic over AI safeguards dispute, Axios report says

February 17, 2026, 12:48 AM EST. The Pentagon is weighing a formal pull-back from Anthropic over a dispute about safeguards and how its Claude AI may be used by the U.S. military, Axios reported, citing an administration official. The department is pressing four AI firms-OpenAI, Google, Anthropic and xAI-to allow their tools to be used for all lawful purposes, including weapons development, intelligence gathering and battlefield operations, but Anthropic has not agreed to those terms. An Anthropic spokesperson said discussions have focused on strict limits around fully autonomous weapons and mass domestic surveillance, not current operations. The company's Claude has been deployed in a U.S. effort against Nicolas Maduro via Palantir, according to the Wall Street Journal. Reuters previously reported the Pentagon was pushing top AI firms to run tools on classified networks with fewer restrictions.

OpenClaw creator Peter Steinberger joins OpenAI

February 17, 2026, 12:46 AM EST. Peter Steinberger, the developer behind the AI personal assistant OpenClaw, has joined OpenAI. The project, formerly known as Clawdbot and later Moltbot, gained viral attention for promising to perform real tasks such as calendar management, flight booking and social posts. Steinberger said he left the route to build a huge company because his aim is to change the world, not scale a business, and teaming with OpenAI is the fastest path. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said Steinberger will help drive the next generation of personal agents. Altman added that OpenClaw will live in a foundation as an open-source project, with continued support from OpenAI.

Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro vs OnePlus Pad 3: which tablet offers better value for money

February 17, 2026, 12:44 AM EST. Tablet buyers weigh portability, performance and price. The Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro emphasizes a light, compact design and balanced power, while the OnePlus Pad 3 leans into a larger display and stronger battery life. The Xiaomi uses a slim aluminum body under 500 g, versus the Pad 3 at about 675 g, affecting day-to-day handling. Both run high-end chips and fast storage, with Android 16/HyperOS 3 on Xiaomi and Android 15/ColorOS 15 on OnePlus. The Pad 3 offers richer productivity through its 13.2-inch screen and keyboard potential, while Xiaomi focuses on reading and light multitasking with a 3:2 ratio. Battery, charging speed and stylus support differ, shaping which model best serves work, study and travel.

Murena Volla Tablet adds /e/OS privacy Android on 12.6-inch tablet

February 17, 2026, 12:40 AM EST. Murena is shipping the Volla Tablet with /e/OS, a privacy-focused Android variant. The device matches the original Volla Tablet: 12.6-inch 2560×1600 IPS LCD, Helio G99, 12GB RAM, 512GB storage, microSD up to 1TB, and a 10,000 mAh battery. It adds 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C, pogo pins, and 13MP rear / 5MP front cameras. The /e/OS build based on Android 14 replaces Google services with open-source alternatives. It's sold pre-installed by Murena in the US, Europe and the UK for €698 or $798, with a 2-year warranty. A new de-Googled option alongside Ubuntu Touch and Volla OS.

Nvidia stock eyes further gains as Vera Rubin and margins support upside

February 17, 2026, 12:30 AM EST. Nvidia stock has cooled after a multi-year run, but the company's earnings outlook keeps investors focused. Nvidia will report its Q4 fiscal 2026 results on Feb. 25; nine months through the year showed a 50% rise in earnings, with consensus calling for FY2026 EPS of $4.69, up about 57%. Management aims to keep gross margin in the mid-70s in FY2027, higher than the 71-73% seen in Q1 FY2026, supported by a growing backlog. The next-gen Vera Rubin processors could lift demand and earnings beyond estimates. Analysts expect a 65% EPS surge in FY2027 and a further 28% in the following year. If FY2028 earnings reach $9.90 and the stock trades near 30x earnings, a $300 price target appears plausible.

Google Pixel Pixelsnap Case for Pixel 10/Pro hits Amazon at all-time low with 40% off

February 17, 2026, 12:16 AM EST. Amazon trims the official Google Pixelsnap Case for the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro to an all-time low of $30, a 40% off from the $50 list. The case is designed specifically for Pixel 10/Pro, with raised edges for the display and extra protection for the camera bar. It snaps into wireless charging and works with magnetic accessories like chargers, grips and stands without affecting charging, audio clarity, or signal. Built from soft silicone in bold colors, it hugs every curve and matches Pixel 10 lineup. At least 42% of the materials are recycled, aligning with eco-friendly messaging. Price trends show the Frost model at its best price so far.

Apple sets March 4 NYC event as 'special Apple Experience' amid product rumors

February 17, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. Apple has scheduled a press event in New York City for March 4, 2026 at 9 a.m. ET, branding it a special Apple Experience rather than a typical Apple event. The company invited reporters in NYC; separate gatherings are planned in Shanghai and London, per reports online. The lineup of products remains unclear, but rumors point to new Macs, iPads and the iPhone 17e, though Apple has not confirmed any lineup for the launch. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has repeated the rumors, with speculation that at least some devices could surface. An accompanying beta of iOS 26.4 is expected soon, potentially featuring new Siri capabilities powered by Google Gemini. Reporters were invited by 9to5Mac, and speculation continues about what Apple will unveil on March 4.

AI climate claims dismissed as greenwashing, NGO report says

February 17, 2026, 12:12 AM EST. Claims that AI can avert climate breakdown are being challenged by a report that finds most assertions rely on traditional AI, not the energy-intensive generative AI driving data-centre growth. The analysis of 154 statements, commissioned by nonprofits Beyond Fossil Fuels and Climate Action Against Disinformation, found no example where tools such as Google Gemini or Microsoft Copilot produced a material, verifiable emissions reduction. Energy analyst Ketan Joshi labeled industry tactics as greenwashing. The study notes that many claims come from an IEA report reviewed by tech giants and corporate reports. The IEA's two-chapter discussion on AI's climate benefits shows an even split between academic sources, corporate materials, and unsubstantiated claims; for Google and Microsoft, evidence was scarce. Researchers say green claims rely on weak or unverified evidence; some figures, like 5-10% mitigation by 2030, are contested.

Nvidia stock underperforms in 2026 as AI spend and competition loom

February 17, 2026, 12:08 AM EST. Nvidia shares are down about 2% year-to-date even as the S&P 500 is roughly flat. The stock's weakness comes as investors question the sustainability of the AI boom and the impact of intensifying competition. The company posted accelerating top-line growth in its fiscal Q3 and guided for strong fiscal Q4. But the broad push by tech giants-Amazon, Alphabet, Microsoft, Meta-to spend heavily on AI infrastructure keeps near-term demand supported. At the same time, in-house AI chips programs, notably Amazon's Trainium family, loom as a potential headwind to Nvidia's growth if price wars curb chip pricing. Amazon says Trainium2 is fully subscribed with 1.4 million chips deployed and Trainium3 demand is starting. The story remains a mix of short-term tailwinds and longer-term competitive risks.