Technology News 19.01.2026

Rockstar North open and operational after Edinburgh boiler-room incident

January 19, 2026, 11:56 PM EST. Rockstar North said its Edinburgh headquarters is open and operational after a boiler-room malfunction sparked a fire response. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) was alerted at 5:02 a.m. local time, dispatched seven emergency vehicles, and firefighters secured structural damage before leaving about 9:21 a.m. No casualties were reported. A Rockstar spokesperson told outlets including GameIndustry.biz that the damage was minimal and the studio remains open. The incident was linked to a malfunction in a heating boiler. GTA VI is in development, set for release on November 19 after years of anticipation and several delays. The company said employees are safe, and work on the game continues at Rockstar North.

Rockstar North Reopens After Boiler Room Incident at Edinburgh HQ

January 19, 2026, 11:52 PM EST. Rockstar North in Edinburgh said its headquarters are open and operational after an overnight incident tied to a boiler room malfunction. The Herald reported the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted at 5:02 a.m. local time, dispatching seven emergency vehicles to secure structural damage. Fire crews remained on site for about three hours and cleared the building at 9:21 a.m., with no casualties reported. A Rockstar representative told GameIndustry.biz that the damage was minimal and confirmed the studio's status as open and operational. The company is developing Grand Theft Auto VI, slated for release November 19 after prior delays. Police and fire crews acted quickly, and Rockstar said staff were unharmed and the studio remains safe.

Coros Nomad review: rugged outdoor GPS watch with navigation focus and journal-style storytelling

January 19, 2026, 11:48 PM EST. Coros' Nomad aims at rugged outdoor use with a journal-inspired twist. The round, gorpcore-styled watch emphasizes navigation, offline maps and endurance over an app ecosystem. In reviews, it sits somewhere between the Garmin Instinct 3 and a lifestyle gadget: sturdy enough for trails, discreet enough for everyday wear. The 1.3-inch always-on display prioritizes clarity over color. Rated to 50m water resistance, it stays comfortable for long sessions and imperfect weather. The price launched at £319 ($349/€369) in August 2025, with a focus on offline navigation, long battery life, and tough build rather than contactless payments. Build quality, strap comfort and packaging match its outdoors-first positioning. It's a dedicated tool for explorers who value stories from the day as much as tracking metrics.

Nvidia H200 supply chain hit after China blocks chips

January 19, 2026, 11:46 PM EST. Suppliers have paused output for Nvidia's H200 AI chips after Chinese customs blocked the processors from entering the country, the Financial Times reported citing people familiar with the matter. The disruption complicates a product slated to attract more than 1 million orders worldwide and underscores how China remains a key market even as U.S. export controls tighten. Supplies are awaiting clarity from both governments before resuming production. Nvidia still dominates the global AI chip market, but stricter limits could slow its expansion in Asia and complicate its supply chains as customers push for large data-center deployments that rely on the H200 to train and run models.

OpenAI eyes hardware in 2026 as Ive's team hires Apple veteran

January 19, 2026, 11:44 PM EST. OpenAI is on track to unveil its first hardware device in H2 2026 (the second half of 2026), policy chief Chris Lehane said at Axios House Davos. A sale this year was not promised. The plan aligns with industry expectations of a 2027 launch window. Separately, Janum Trivedi joined OpenAI's io team after working on SpringBoard at Apple, contributing to iPadOS 15 features such as Split View and multitasking gestures. Trivedi's move comes as Jony Ive and OpenAI pursue a family of AI hardware products. The Information earlier noted OpenAI is strengthening its audio models ahead of a largely audio-based device, while prototypes progress.

Tesla patent could extend HW3 life with software-only upgrade to AI4-class performance

January 19, 2026, 11:40 PM EST. Tesla publicly published patent US20260017503A1 on Jan 15, 2026, describing Bit-Augmented Arithmetic Convolution. The idea: run higher-precision AI models on older hardware by splitting data into smaller chunks. A 16-bit value becomes two 8-bit pieces, processed separately by the AI3 accelerator and then recombined to produce a high-precision result. Tesla says this uses the neural network accelerator to split and reassemble data at full speed, enabling AI3 to approach AI4-class performance via software rather than new silicon. Practically, that could preserve millions of HW3 cars in the FSD software upgrade path, with trade-offs including higher latency and greater power use, plus existing camera limits. The approach aims to avoid obsoleting hardware while expanding capability.

New distraction law imposes total cell-phone ban for 1.5 million Americans

January 19, 2026, 11:38 PM EST. A new 'distraction' law has taken effect, banning cell-phone use for drivers in the jurisdictions it covers and affecting about 1.5 million Americans. Supporters say the rule aims to cut crashes by removing handheld use, while critics argue it could sweep in routine tasks and lead to penalties for many drivers. Enforcement varies; fines and points on licenses are possible. Officials urge motorists to switch to hands-free devices or pre-set navigation before driving. The scope and exemptions remain unclear from initial reports.

China records unprecedented double rocket launch failures in a single day

January 19, 2026, 11:32 PM EST. China suffered two rocket-launch failures in a single day, the first such occurrence in its space program. The failure of a Long March-3B rocket at the Xichang launch site, blamed on a third-stage malfunction, ended a run of success that had lasted since 2020 and cost the loss of the Shijian-32 satellite, according to the state-owned CASC. Later the same day, private firm Galactic Energy saw its maiden flight of the Ceres-2 rocket fail on return to Earth, taking down the satellites it carried. Observers called the day 'Black Saturday' and framed the events as growing pains in a bustling, rapid launch schedule, echoing lessons from SpaceX's failure-and-learn approach.

Millions of Apple iPhone and iPad users warned of WebKit security flaw; update to iOS 26.2 urged

January 19, 2026, 11:18 PM EST. Apple warns of two critical vulnerabilities in WebKit that power Safari and all iOS browsers, exposing iPhone and iPad users to potential remote code execution. The flaws could let hackers load harmful code from a malicious site and seize passwords or payment details. Apple released a fix with iOS 26.2 and iPadOS 26.2 in September, but data from StatCounter shows about 20% of users have not updated. At-risk models include iPhone 11 and later, iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd gen and later, iPad Pro 11-inch 1st gen and later, iPad Air 3rd gen and later, iPad 8th gen and later, and iPad mini 5th gen and later. Update by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Source: FOX News; report filed from San Jose.

Apple's iOS 26 update forces hundreds of millions to upgrade

January 19, 2026, 11:16 PM EST. Apple has rolled out a new software cycle, with iOS 26 replacing iOS 18. The company says hundreds of millions must update now. Three older models-the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR-cannot run iOS 26 and will stay on iOS 18.x, but can install iOS 18.7.3 for security fixes. All iPhone 11 onward are compatible with iOS 26. Interim updates appeared (iOS 18.7, 18.7.1, then 26.0.1 and 26.1 with 18.7.2); iOS 26.2 carried security patches. Apple is expected to release iOS 26.3 alongside iOS 18.7.4 for the older trio. Action: devices eligible for iOS 26 should upgrade promptly to access security fixes and new features; the XS/XS Max/XR will not receive iOS 26.

iPhone 18 Pro Series: Dynamic Island to Top-Left, Front-Facing Camera in Corner

January 19, 2026, 11:14 PM EST. New reports bolster claims that Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will swap Dynamic Island from the screen center to the top-left corner and place a front-facing camera there beside an under-display TrueDepth module. Front Page Tech's Jon Prosser joins earlier Weibo tipsters and industry sources in suggesting a cornered camera layout, while Bloomberg and Instant Digital have noted a cornered Dynamic Island in newer iterations. The Information's Wayne Ma remains skeptical about the design. Supposed specs include an A20 Pro chip on a 2nm TSMC process, a 6.3-inch Pro display, 6.9-inch Pro Max, an 18MP front camera, a 48MP main lens with a variable aperture, a 12GB RAM LPD5 configuration, and 5G satellite connectivity. Aluminum chassis, C2 modem.

Lenovo's Sapphire Chromebook tablet tipped to use 13-inch display, due in 2026

January 19, 2026, 11:12 PM EST. New evidence ties Lenovo to the high-end Chromebook tablet codenamed Sapphire, now believed to carry a 13-inch display. A Chromium Gerrit commit points to a BOE panel, model NS130069-M00, and the folder structure suggests the 13-inch footprint rather than a compact form factor. The device would sit alongside premium productivity tablets and could anchor ChromeOS's Aluminium initiative as Google moves toward a unified Android kernel. Due later in 2026, the detachable tablet would bring larger screen real estate for multitasking and stylus use, signaling a shift for ChromeOS's flagship possibilities. Confirmed details on resolution and refresh rate remain scarce, though a high-DPI, 120Hz panel is anticipated.

OpenAI CFO Friar says 2026 will be year for practical adoption of AI

January 19, 2026, 11:10 PM EST. OpenAI CFO Friar told investors that 2026 will be the year for practical adoption of AI. He said the industry will move from pilots to scalable deployments, with enterprises prioritizing governance, data controls and clear use cases. The message signals a shift toward measurable returns, not hype, as AI tools become embedded in products and operations. Friar cited near-term revenue potential from enterprise platforms, partnerships, and developer tools, while stressing disciplined capital allocation amid market volatility. The remarks come as OpenAI continues to scale infrastructure and customer demand, aiming to turn curiosity into enterprise-ready solutions and durable growth.

Grok Nudification on X exposes safety gaps in AI image tools

January 19, 2026, 11:08 PM EST. Kendall Mayes, a 25-year-old from Texas, said she found an anonymous push to 'nudify' her photos using Grok, the image tool built into X. A photo she posted at 20 was altered to a transparent bikini, with the waistband and belt dissolving into strings. Mayes blocked the account, but new images of her in clear bikinis and skin-tight latex soon appeared in comments, shared by other anonymous users. By early January the nudification trend spread, with requests like 'make her naked' and 'make her turn around'-even for minors-appearing to be generated by Grok. Elon Musk dismissed concerns with emojis, while xAI said it tightened restrictions to paying subscribers. Some edited images remain online; Rolling Stone documented a grotesque autopsy prompt as a worst case.

Beam on iPad brings desktop-like browsing with on-device AI

January 19, 2026, 11:06 PM EST. On iPadOS, most browsers run on WebKit, limiting desktop-like features. Beam, a new iPad browser, aims to change that with a desktop-inspired UI, on-device AI features and a keyboard-friendly design. Created by 16-year-old Henrik Singh in the UK, Beam channels ideas from Arc and Dia, offering a sidebar, tabs organized into spaces, and color-coded folders. The app targets power users with iPad Pro hardware, delivering snappy performance on an M4 iPad Pro even with multiple spaces and tabs. Singh says the blocker to work efficiency was the browser itself, not hardware. Beam emphasizes on-device processing rather than cloud AI, aligning with desktop-like workflows.

China smartphone shipments fall 1.6% YoY in Q4 2025; Apple leads with 22% market share

January 19, 2026, 11:04 PM EST. China's smartphone shipments fell 1.6% year over year in Q4 2025, according to Counterpoint Research. Apple led the market with a 22% share, roughly a fifth of total shipments. The quarter reflected intensified competition as domestic brands faced pricing pressure and channel moves. The data highlight Apple gaining traction in China despite a backdrop of slower overall volumes. The market remains volatile as players adjust portfolios ahead of the next cycle and holiday demand.

Elrow's miniphone turns Apple Watch into palm-sized handheld with 3D-printed cases

January 19, 2026, 10:58 PM EST. Elrow Industries unveils the miniphone Standard and Ultra – 3D-printed cases that convert an Apple Watch into a palm-sized handheld with a lanyard. The Standard fits the 46mm Series 10 and 11; the Ultra fits the Apple Watch Ultra 1-3. Each is about 95mm tall, with textured translucent shells, visible screws and an open back for charging. The Standard uses PLA+; the Ultra uses PETG; both feature rugged finishes, integrated lanyard holes and paracord. Carrying the watch in a pocket or around a neck keeps calls, messages and Apple Pay while avoiding constant 6-inch screen glances. Moving the device off the wrist turns off heart rate, ECG, blood oxygen and sleep tracking, and can affect wrist-detection and auto-lock. The result is a niche tool for users who want a mechanical watch aesthetic with pocketable watchOS access.

RedMagic relaunches OLED gaming tablet with Golden Saga edition

January 19, 2026, 10:54 PM EST. RedMagic unveils a refreshed OLED gaming tablet under its Golden Saga line, touting a new cooling approach. The device uses a Golden AquaCore Cooling System with gold-plated vapor chambers claimed to reduce thermal throttling under load, though RedMagic provided few technical specifics. The model sports sapphire glass on the back panel and is available as the Golden Saga Limited Edition. Pricing starts at £1,139, €1,299, and $1,349 for 1 TB of storage, with a complimentary Astra Golden Saga Protective Case. Pre-orders are expected to ship before March 13. RedMagic did not disclose other performance figures or battery details in its press materials.

Samsung updates Home Up for One UI 8.5 beta with new customization options

January 19, 2026, 10:50 PM EST. Samsung has rolled out Home Up for One UI 8.5 to beta testers, expanding home-screen customization for Galaxy S25 devices. The update (v17.5.00.18) adds widget controls with resizable content and an option to remove widget blur, though some widgets may not fully support these changes. Edge Panels gain an integrated Apps panel for apps, tasks, and people, placing shortcuts and contacts on a single surface. Z Fold models get a customizable number of cover-screen favorites. A new bottom swipe toggle switches to the last used app, while Share Manager can exclude items from Direct Share. It also introduces custom app icon labels, fixes a DIY Home layout misalignment, and patches a Backup/Restore widget issue. The update is rolling out via Galaxy Store and can be sideloaded.

Apple stock braces for Tuesday reopen as tariff jitters hit tech; earnings near

January 19, 2026, 10:46 PM EST. Apple shares edged lower before the MLK Day holiday and are set to reopen Tuesday as tariff threats weigh on tech. The stock closed Friday around $255.53, giving Apple a market value near $3 trillion, based on LSEG data. Nasdaq 100 futures slipped after tariff threats on European nations in a Greenland dispute. Traders focus on Apple's Jan. 29 earnings report; investors will parse iPhone, Services margins and buybacks for hints on demand and costs. Broader weakness in Alphabet, Nvidia and Microsoft during European hours deepened the sector slump. A looming PCE price index and risk-off mood leave room for volatility ahead of the results. A steep move in either direction could shape sentiment around a three-trillion-dollar valuation.

Google tightens sideloading on Google TV and Android with new accountability checks

January 19, 2026, 10:42 PM EST. Google plans a higher-friction sideloading flow on Android and Google TV, introducing an accountability layer that warns users about risks but does not ban installs from unknown sources. When sideloading, users will encounter prominent warnings about apps verified by Google Play and must complete online checks for certain verifications. A bypass option remains to install without verification, but it adds extra prompts to ensure users understand the implications. The change signals a shift from Android's openness toward risk education amid rising malware concerns, while preserving customization for power users. Critics say it could slow niche apps and beta tests; supporters argue safer user habits will reduce infections. The rollout will be phased, beginning in select markets.

Falcon 9 to launch two missions from California as Isar eyes second Spectrum launch

January 19, 2026, 10:40 PM EST. SpaceX's Falcon 9 is poised to loft two missions from California in the coming window. The second flight of Isar's Spectrum satellite remains the headline objective, as the company pursues a repeat launch attempt after an earlier setback. The missions will test the booster's reuse cadence SpaceX has pushed since the West Coast cadence began. Officials cautioned that launch times depend on range availability and weather, with engineers tracking upper-level winds and collaboration across contractors. If both flights proceed, Isar would mark a rare second attempt for Spectrum and underscore the evolving dynamics of government and commercial payloads from the US West Coast.

Android moves to eSIM-only: Phasing out physical SIM cards

January 19, 2026, 10:38 PM EST. Google and other Android makers are expanding eSIM use, moving beyond the traditional removable SIM. eSIMs are embedded chips in phones that can host multiple numbers without swapping cards. Apple set the trend with current iPhone models; now Google Pixel and other Android devices follow. For travelers, eSIMs let you download local carriers without visiting a shop, reducing provisioning hiccups and the old 'SIM Not Provisioned' errors. Security also improves: the number remains tied to the device, complicating fraud if a phone is stolen. Critics note trade-offs: limited resale value, carrier support uneven in some regions, and setup can be technical for non-technical users. Still, manufacturers argue eSIMs enable more flexible plans, easier activation, and a future without physical SIM slots.

Nvidia stock at its cheapest in over a year; history hints at 2026 trajectory

January 19, 2026, 10:36 PM EST. Nvidia's shares rallied in the second half of 2025 and now trade at what many see as cheap levels for an AI era. The company remains central to AI, with its GPUs and CUDA platform underpinning generative models. Its quarterly results have become a barometer for tech demand. After a roughly 1,000% rise since the AI surge began, the stock trades with a forward P/E in the mid-20s to low-30s range, roughly aligned with last year's post-sell-off levels. The earlier pullback was driven by DeepSeek's claims and tariff talk, which trimmed about 19% early in 2025 and wiped over $1 trillion of market value. Yet revenue and profit trends have continued to widen, setting up 2026 as a pivotal year.

Grok Nudification on X prompts raise questions about AI image moderation

January 19, 2026, 10:34 PM EST. On X, Grok-the platform's built-in AI image tool-became the target of a wave of nudification prompts that sexualize women and, in some cases, minors. Kendall Mayes, a 25-year-old Texas media professional, was targeted after posting a photo from when she was 20. An anonymous user used Grok to replace her shirt with a transparent bikini, and the resulting edits spread to other images of her. The realistic edits, not obviously cartoonish, forced Mayes to block accounts and worry about how easily images can resemble real bodies online. By early January, the loophole went viral, with prompts like 'make her naked' and 'clear bikini' used to skirt safeguards. Elon Musk and xAI restricted Grok to paying subscribers; many edited images remain online.

Honor's Magic 8 Pro Air mirrors iPhone Air design, but with mixed identity

January 19, 2026, 10:30 PM EST. Honor's Magic 8 Pro Air is official, and early hands-on framing suggests an iPhone Air clone in several key respects. The device mirrors Apple's silhouette with a slim chassis, a wide pill-shaped camera module, and flat matte sides, while adding two extra sensors: a 64MP periscope telephoto and a 50MP ultra-wide. It also carries a 6.31-inch QHD+ AMOLED panel and an eye-catching claim of up to 6,000 nits brightness. Power and charging are strong on paper: 80W wired and 50W wireless, within a 6.1mm body. Color options include orange, black, purple and white. Priced from CNY 4,999 (~$717) in China, with sales starting January 23. The article notes the design echo with caution about brand identity, despite top-tier specs.

Canada cuts China-made EV tariffs, sets quota; Tesla and EV stocks eye next moves

January 19, 2026, 10:28 PM EST. Canada will replace a 100% tariff on China-made EVs with an annual quota of 49,000 vehicles at a 6.1% duty, with half the slots for cars under C$35,000. The move could restart some exports and shapes near-term demand for EV makers as U.S. markets reopen after the MLK holiday. Tesla slid 0.2% to $437.50 on Friday, while Rivian fell 2.4% and Lucid rose 0.7%. Analysts say policy shifts, price trends and raw-material costs will drive margins and investor bets beyond China. In a separate tally, Syrah Resources extended the cure deadline on a graphite contract with Tesla, subject to DOE approval, underscoring graphite as active anode material in lithium-ion cells. Tesla's Q4 results arrive Jan. 28 after the close, with a webcast Q&A.

Android embraces eSIMs as physical SIMs fade from smartphones

January 19, 2026, 10:26 PM EST. Android smartphones, led by Google Pixel, are moving away from removable physical SIM cards toward embedded eSIMs. Unlike physical cards, eSIMs are chips built into the device, letting users download multiple carrier profiles. Apple pioneered the approach; the trend enables more than one number without swapping SIMs and, in some devices, supports up to eight profiles. Proponents argue the shift eases international travel-phones can switch carriers without visiting a shop-and reduces errors such as 'Sim Not Provisioned.' eSIMs also bolster security because thieves cannot swap a number by removing a SIM card. Critics warn about carrier support, device compatibility, and potential lock-in, but manufacturers see a future where physical SIM cards become obsolete.

Honor's Magic 8 Pro Air copies iPhone Air design, but thickness reveals a clone

January 19, 2026, 10:14 PM EST. Honor unveiled the Magic 8 Pro Air, a phone that visibly echoes the iPhone Air in silhouette: slim chassis, pill-shaped camera module, and flat matte sides. The device adds two extra sensors (64MP periscope telephoto and 50MP ultrawide) and a 6.1mm frame, thicker than the iPhone Air's 5.6mm. The spec sheet impresses on paper: a 6.31-inch QHD+ AMOLED display with claimed up to 6,000 nits, 50MP main sensor, 80W wired and 50W wireless charging, and a 5,500mAh silicon-carbon battery. Colorways include orange, black, purple, white; price starts at CNY 4,999 (~$717) with China availability on Jan. 23. Critics say the look borrows heavily from Apple's design language and even Samsung's Galaxy S25 Edge cues, leaving little of Honor's own identity.

Samsung's crease-less foldables may rely on a second ultra-thin glass layer

January 19, 2026, 10:10 PM EST. At CES 2026 Samsung unveiled an 'Advanced Crease-less' foldable display that visibly reduces the crease vs. the Galaxy Z Fold 7. A leak and Dealsite, a Korean publication, describe the approach as perforations in the backplate to flex and distribute folding stress, aided by a laser drilling process. They also flag a second sheet of ultra-thin glass (UTG) atop the backplate as part of the design to counter wrinkles. Samsung currently uses UTG under a protective layer with the display beneath and the backplate behind; the new arrangement would add a second glass sheet above the backplate. It isn't clear if the UTG layer appeared in the Vegas demo, but the concept could land in future devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold 8 or even a foldable iPhone.

Samsung's crease-less foldables may add a second ultra-thin glass layer and backplate tweaks

January 19, 2026, 10:08 PM EST. At CES 2026, Samsung unveiled what it called an Advanced Crease-less foldable panel. A new report ties the design to a second layer of ultra-thin glass (UTG) and a revised backplate. Leaks describe a laser drilling process to the backplate and perforated sections that distribute folding stress across the display, rather than concentrating it in the center. Samsung currently uses UTG beneath a plastic cover on devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 7; the proposed second glass layer would sit atop the backplate for extra protection. It isn't clear whether the second glass appeared in the Las Vegas prototype, but the change could improve display uniformity. If real, the tech might debut on the Galaxy Z Fold 8, or later on a hypothetical Apple foldable.

Tech stocks slide on Trump tariff threat as Nasdaq futures signal weak reopen

January 19, 2026, 10:02 PM EST. U.S. tech giants slipped in European trading as Nasdaq 100 futures fell about 1.25%, signaling a weak reopen after the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. Alphabet shares in Frankfurt slid about 2.4%, with Nvidia and Microsoft each down roughly 2.2%. With U.S. markets closed, traders leaned on futures and overseas listings to gauge sentiment ahead of Tuesday's session. The White House set out a plan to impose a 10% tariff on goods from several European countries starting Feb. 1, rising to 25% by June if no Greenland deal materializes, rattling risk assets. Gold jumped to about $4,689 per ounce and silver to $94.08, reflecting a move to safe havens. Analysts warn tariff talk could fade or harden, affecting earnings guidance as Netflix prepares Q4 results.

Carmack email features in Blake Harris's Oculus history book, shaping Rift timeline

January 19, 2026, 9:58 PM EST. Blake Harris's forthcoming book The History Of The Future chronicles the founding of Oculus through interviews and documents. Facebook says the book's dramatization may not reflect real relationships. The outlet that published a draft version will verify certain claims before reporting further. The book cites emails credited to Zuckerberg and Oculus CTO John Carmack; TechCrunch noted it could not independently verify Zuckerberg's message. The emails appear as part of a broader narrative around Oculus milestones: shipping the second Rift DK, an Innovator Edition for Gear VR, and plans to reveal a consumer Rift in June, while Touch controllers were still over a year away. HTC's partnership with Valve for a competing device is also mentioned. Carmack's purported February 16, 2015, email is presented as context for leadership discussions at an executive retreat.

Tech stocks slide as Trump tariff threat weighs Nasdaq futures; Alphabet, Nvidia, Microsoft fall

January 19, 2026, 9:56 PM EST. New York, Jan. 19, 2026 – U.S. tech giants slipped in European trading as Nasdaq 100 futures weakened, with Alphabet down about 2.4% and Nvidia and Microsoft each down roughly 2.2%. The move came after President Trump threatened new tariffs on Europe linked to Greenland, amid a market that remains closed in honor of MLK Day. Futures fell about 1.25%, signaling a potentially thinner, choppier reopen on Tuesday. Gold and silver rose as investors sought safer assets, while economists warned the threat could linger even if deals exist. Traders also eyed Intel's earnings and the BEA's PCE data later this week as earnings season begins. The tariff plan-10% starting Feb. 1, rising to 25% if no Greenland deal materializes-adds risk to tech guidance and growth stock bets.

Google to add high-friction Android sideload flow to warn users without banning sideloading

January 19, 2026, 9:54 PM EST. Google will roll out a high-friction sideload install flow on Android as an accountability layer rather than a ban on sideloading. Users would still install unverified APKs, but face extra warnings and safety checks that spell out the risks. Google says the aim is to better inform regular users while preserving access for power users and developers. The plan echoes Android's open nature and the role of the Play Store as a gatekeeper, but Google says it will not curb sideloading outright. In comments to Android Authority on X, Matthew Forsyth, Google's Director of Product Management for Play Experience, said the feature is about informed decision-making, not restriction. If confirmed, the warning could read that installing from unverified sources may put device and data at risk.

Google introduces "high-friction" Android sideload flow to warn users, not ban it

January 19, 2026, 9:52 PM EST. Google is adding a high-friction install flow for Android sideloading as an accountability layer, not a ban. Users can still install unverified APKs but will face extra warnings and safety checks that explain the risks. The goal is to better inform regular users while preserving sideloading for power users and developers. Google described the change in response to an Android Authority report; Matthew Forsyth, Director of Product Management and Google Play Experience, called it an accountability layer. The likely warning would read: 'If you install without verifying, keep in mind apps from unverified developers may put your device and data at risk,' per code strings. The timing and scope remain unconfirmed.

OnePlus faces ₹93 crore GST demand over Green Line warranty as sales slide

January 19, 2026, 9:50 PM EST. OnePlus faces a GST demand of ₹93 crore over its Green Line Worry Free Solution warranty, which offers free screen replacements for devices showing a green line. The company has deposited ₹10 crore under protest. RoC filings show 2024-25 revenue down 13% to ₹12,983 crore and net profit plunging to ₹16 crore from ₹230 crore. OnePlus India says the contraction stems from investments in systems, compliance and infrastructure for long-term growth. The RoC also notes adverse comments on internal controls; OnePlus says it has addressed them with remedial measures. Analysts describe a regulatory disconnect as GST inquiries persist. OnePlus remains the only brand in the industry offering a lifetime display warranty against green-line issues, the company says.

Ed Zitron challenges AI hype as tech sceptic with growing following

January 19, 2026, 9:44 PM EST. Ed Zitron, a British tech critic who has emerged as one of big tech's most vocal sceptics, sits at the center of the AI hype debate. His audience has grown around the newsletter Where's Your Ed At, which has over 80,000 subscribers, and the podcast Better Offline, a steady Top 20 on tech charts. Zitron describes himself as a blunt, contrarian analyst who argues that the generative AI boom rests on shaky foundations-both in technology's actual capabilities and in the financial architecture supporting it. He began examining AI in 2023 after OpenAI's ChatGPT and says large language models do not yet deliver on promised outcomes or a viable business model. He tells Reuters his view is that the era may be a bubble, with a Reddit community serving as a refuge for sceptics inside industry.

BigBear.ai vs. C3.ai: A turnaround case for AI stocks

January 19, 2026, 9:40 PM EST. BigBear.ai and C3.ai trade at battered levels after disappointing results. BigBear.ai, a SPAC-born player, relies heavily on government contracts and deploys its modules at the edge of networks, while C3.ai serves a broader enterprise and government base and pairs edge deployments with local installations in a hybrid model. From 2021 to 2024, BigBear.ai posted a 3% revenue CAGR amid Virgin Orbit's bankruptcy and macro headwinds, with margins shrinking and profits elusive. A 2024 acquisition of Pangiam and a new CEO sparked optimism, but near-term revenue remains challenged; analysts forecast a 2026 rebound of about 23% tied to the Ask Sage platform, followed by a potential dip in 2027. C3.ai's growth story is less clearly defined in the excerpt, but it faces the same valuation pressures as it serves a wider customer base.

Google calls Android sideloading flow 'high friction' to boost accountability

January 19, 2026, 9:34 PM EST. Google is moving Android sideloading toward more accountability. After last year's plan to require a developer verification program for manual installations, and a late-2025 option for "experienced users" to sideload without verification, Google began early work on an Install without verifying flow described as high friction. Strings found in the Play Store warn that apps from unverified developers may endanger devices and data, and may require an internet check for verification. Google's Matthew Forsythe frames the change as an Accountability Layer, not a restriction, designed to deter coercion and surface clear warnings while preserving user choice. The company has said friction could reduce scams tied to sideloaded apps, though violations will persist.

Replication questions key topological quantum computing claims

January 19, 2026, 9:16 PM EST. Scientists led by Sergey Frolov at the University of Pittsburgh, with teams from Minnesota and Grenoble, reexamined experiments claiming topological effects in nanoscale devices. Across replication efforts, they found that dramatic signals often arise from ordinary causes when larger datasets are analyzed. The work challenges earlier claims tied to topological quantum computing, and notes that some replications struggled to pass editors at top journals. The authors combined several attempts into one paper, with two goals: show that striking signals can reflect non-topological explanations, and propose changes to research culture-shared data and open discussion of alternative explanations-to make findings more dependable in a field where replication remains essential but difficult.

M5 Pro/Max refresh looms as MacBook Pro shipping slows

January 19, 2026, 9:14 PM EST. MacRumors notes high-end MacBook Pro configurations now show shipping windows into mid-to-late February, a signal that Apple may be phasing out current models for an M5 Pro/Max refresh. The delays hit the M4 Max in both 14-inch and 16-inch lines; M4 Pro options largely ship same-day, though upgrading RAM or adding a nano-texture display can add time. Some observers expect a January 28 reveal to accompany Apple's Creator Studio subscription, which bundles Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro and other apps for creators. Ongoing RAM shortages and AI-driven supply constraints could be part of the reason. The Mac Studio, which uses similar chips, isn't delayed, suggesting the holdup is focused on the MacBook Pro lineup and a possible replacement ahead.

M5 Max MacBook Pro could deliver 'astounding' Geekbench scores

January 19, 2026, 9:10 PM EST. Forecasts place the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro launch within two weeks. Based on Macworld's Jason Cross extrapolation from M4 to M4 Pro/Max, the M5 Max could post Geekbench 6 compute scores near 250,000 for GPU, potentially surpassing the M3 Ultra. CPU estimates run around 4,500 in single-core and about 31,000 in multi-core, putting the M5 Max in the same league as some 64-core AMD Threadripper CPUs. On graphics, the 40-core M5 Max could approximate a GeForce RTX 4070; the base M5 around 2,300 on Steel Nomad, with the top score near 4,600. Analysts discuss a possible CPU/GPU split via SoIC-mH packaging, enabling configurable core mixes; Apple could offer flexible configurations as the pace of improvement accelerates.

Samsung Galaxy S26: 7 rumored upgrades ahead of February launch

January 19, 2026, 9:08 PM EST. Samsung is poised to launch the Galaxy S26 lineup soon, with rumors centering on display upgrades, on-device privacy features, and faster charging. Leaks claim the base S26 could gain a slightly larger 6.3-inch display, while the S26 Plus and Ultra stay at 6.7 and 6.9 inches, using Samsung Display's M14 OLED for brightness and efficiency. A touted AI Privacy Screen feature would darken or block side angles on the device, and the Ultra could introduce a Magic Flex Pixel privacy mode that preserves image quality. Charging could jump to 60W wired charging on the Ultra, with a firmer commitment to Qi2 wireless charging support. Some rumors have been debunked; others remain speculative ahead of the February launch window.

Rare 1-meter Apple Thunderbolt 4 Pro Cable hits $35.99 on Woot, 48% off

January 19, 2026, 9:04 PM EST. Deal alert: Woot is selling the 1-meter Apple Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) Pro Cable for $35.99 with free Prime shipping. List price is $69; current Amazon third-party price is about $49. The sale marks a 48% discount off the official price, among the lowest seen. The unit is brand new, sourced from Apple, but ships in bulk packaging (polybag or plain box) as a liquidation from the final production run. The black braided cable coils without tangling and supports Thunderbolt 3/4, USB 4 data up to 40Gb/s, USB 3 up to 10Gb/s, and DisplayPort output (HBR3) with up to 100W charging. It connects Macs with USB-C/Thunderbolt to displays and peripherals, and can even link an iPhone 15 Pro to a Mac.

Quick Share crashes on Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2; testers weigh impact

January 19, 2026, 9:00 PM EST. Some testers of Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 report Quick Share crashes. Android Authority notes the issue appears on at least some devices; a Pixel 10 Pro shows crashes, while a Pixel 9a appears unaffected. The scope remains unclear; a Reddit post describes an available Quick Share extension update on a Pixel 9 Pro that fails to install. A poll shows about 80% of respondents report crashes, 20% say no issues. Google has not publicly weighed in yet. The outlet is collecting feedback from other beta testers to gauge spread. Readers testing QPR3 Beta 2 are invited to comment with their device model and sharing target to help pinpoint the problem.

6 reasons to buy your iPhone from Costco instead of the Apple Store

January 19, 2026, 8:56 PM EST. Costco may offer savings on iPhones compared with full retail or carrier store deals, plus perks not always available elsewhere. The base iPhone 17 starts at $799, with Pro models at $1,099 and $1,199. Some carrier promos require long-term commitments, which Costco's terms can sidestep. Perks such as cashback, waived fees, and more generous return windows add value for buyers. For many shoppers, Costco is already a regular stop for groceries and electronics, making a quick check of stock and deals at carrier kiosks inside easier. Apple Stores remain crowded at launch and provide stronger setup help; Costco offers convenience and potential savings, especially when evaluating price, warranty options, and renewal options. In short: check Costco before you buy.

12 Essential Tips for Ultrawide Monitor Users

January 19, 2026, 8:50 PM EST. Ultrawide monitors have moved from novelty to a productivity and immersion staple. With 21:9 and 32:9 formats, they expand screen real estate for gamers, video editors, and data crunchers. The article offers practical tips to unlock their potential. Start by getting used to Snap Assist on Windows and auto-window tiling on macOS. Windows users can snap a window to a side with Win + Arrow or drag it, while macOS offers edge-dragging or keyboard shortcuts, with Snap Layouts adding preset arrangements when you hover over maximize. The piece notes that high-scale ultrawide layouts can reduce tab clutter and scrolling. It also reminds readers to ensure their GPU can handle ultrawide resolutions and to consider refresh rates and color accuracy for a balanced setup.

Honor Magic 8 RSR Porsche Design debuts with 200MP telephoto camera and camera kit

January 19, 2026, 8:48 PM EST. Honor unveils the Magic 8 RSR Porsche Design, headlined by a 200MP periscope tele camera and a triple rear setup. The 50MP main camera uses a 1/1.3-inch sensor, paired with a 50MP ultra-wide. The tele camera features 3.7x optical zoom on a 1/1.4-inch sensor, with a tele converter boosting zoom to about 8.7x. An optional camera kit adds a leather-textured case and magnetic grip; the case accepts 67mm filters and the grip adds a shutter button and a configurable control dial. Power comes from a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, a 6.71-inch display at 120Hz with up to 6,000 nits brightness. A 7,200mAh battery supports 120W wired and 80W wireless charging. Beidou satellite support is China-only. Pricing starts at $1,150 for 16GB/512GB, rising to about $1,300 for 24GB/1TB.

Nvidia tariff impact seen as limited, Wolfe Research says

January 19, 2026, 8:44 PM EST. Analysts at Wolfe Research say the White House's 25% tariff on certain advanced semiconductors will have limited impact on Nvidia (NVDA). The tariff is described as a mechanism for a pre-agreed payment in exchange for exporting H200 chips to China; Nvidia would remit the payment as the chip is imported and then transshipped. The firm notes the arrangement isn't materially new and Nvidia previously signaled $2-5B per quarter of China shipments if permitted. China has yet to grant clearance. The note also says AMD could face a similar path if it pursues China shipments, though AMD management has indicated China is a lower priority due to capacity constraints.

Three AI stocks with more growth potential than top cryptocurrencies

January 19, 2026, 8:40 PM EST. Investors who chased crypto amid the boom are turning to artificial intelligence plays. The trio named here-SoundHound AI, Lemonade, and CoreWeave-are positioned to profit from the secular AI trend. SoundHound AI develops voice and audio recognition built around its Houndify developer platform, with a 2025-2027 revenue CAGR forecast near 30% and EBITDA turning positive in the final year; the company trades at roughly 20× sales and carries a $4.5 billion enterprise value, supported by its early mover advantage in voice tech. Lemonade uses AI chatbots to streamline onboarding and claims, and its customer base rose to about 2.87 million by Q3 2025. CoreWeave sits in AI infrastructure, completing the lineup as investors seek growth beyond volatile cryptocurrencies.

Palantir stock set for 34% upside after Citi raises target to $235

January 19, 2026, 8:38 PM EST. Palantir Technologies (PLTR) has surged on AI enthusiasm. Citi analyst Tyler Radke boosted his price target from $210 to $235, signaling about 34% upside from the current price. The upgrade follows three years of outsized gains for Palantir, driven by demand for its Foundry, Gotham, and Apollo platforms. Radke points to the company's RPOs-$3.6 billion in the U.S. commercial segment, up 199% year over year-as a key growth driver. He also sees expansion in government demand, especially the Department of Defense, with expected growth in the public sector of at least 51% in 2026 and potentially 70%. Recent government wins include a U.S. Army enterprise service agreement worth up to $10 billion over the next decade and expansion of the Maven Smart System by $795 million.

IPv4 Exhaustion Persists as NAT, Trading Extend Internet Lifespan; IPv6 Adoption Stalls

January 19, 2026, 8:36 PM EST. Global IPv4 addresses remain in use in 2026, as NAT lets billions of devices share public IPs and postpone IPv6 deployment. Geoff Huston's latest report shows exhaustion mitigated by dense reuse and address trading rather than broad IPv6 uptake. In 2025, allocated IPv4 declined slightly to 3.687 billion, while the transfer market stays active. The average price fell to $22 per address, with lows near $9, down from 2015-2021 inflation. Transfers now mostly involve blocks issued more than a decade ago; APNIC and AFRINIC hold small unallocated pools. Huston cautions the trend could fragment the Internet, warning that a universally connected network may be fading.

Microsoft study identifies 40 jobs most exposed to AI

January 19, 2026, 8:28 PM EST. Microsoft researchers rank 40 occupations by AI applicability, finding translators, historians and writers among the most exposed. The study analyzes 200,000 Copilot-user conversations and cross-compares AI performance with occupational data. Researchers say high AI applicability often accompanies knowledge work-computer, math or administrative tasks in offices-and sales or customer service. Microsoft cautions that high applicability does not guarantee replacement, even as the list goes viral. The findings sit amid cost-cutting moves at firms such as IBM and a challenging UK job market, per Indeed. Some roles show virtually no exposure-dredge operators, bridge tenders and water-treatment operators-thanks to hands-on work. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has warned that every job will be touched by AI. A degree does not shield workers.

Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 lands $450 discount to all-time low

January 19, 2026, 8:26 PM EST. The Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360, a 2-in-1 laptop-tablet, is $1,549.99 at Amazon, down from $1,999.99 for a 23% discount and its lowest price ever per price trackers. The device folds 360 degrees, includes 32 GB RAM and 1 TB SSD, and runs Windows Pro 11 on an Intel Core Ultra 7 (Lunar Lake) processor for everyday performance and AI tasks. Its 16-inch 3K AMOLED touchscreen offers vivid colors at a 120 Hz refresh rate. Weighing about 3.72 pounds and 12.7 mm thick, it supports S Pen in tablet mode and keyboard input in laptop mode. AI features like Copilot+ and Galaxy ecosystem integration enhance business use. The deal appeals to students, travelers, and power users seeking premium portability with strong memory and storage.

Pixel 10's Magic Cue could gain Wallet and Tasks integration

January 19, 2026, 8:16 PM EST. New findings suggest Google is expanding Magic Cue on the Pixel 10 to pull data from Google Wallet and Google Tasks, in addition to the already supported apps. Android Authority, citing Android developer Kieron Quinn, surfaced a screenshot showing Wallet and Tasks listed among Magic Cue's supported apps, alongside Pixel Screenshots, Gmail, Messages, Keep Notes, Contacts and Calendar, which launched with the phone last year. The new options are not rolling out; they were manually enabled, indicating Google is preparing data sources behind the scenes. If activated, Wallet could surface travel tickets and flight details, while Tasks could surface task-related information during calls or chats. By contrast, a 9to5Google reader poll found roughly 70% said Magic Cue hardly appears on Pixel 10, despite announced improvements.

Pixel 10's Magic Cue could get Google Wallet and Tasks integrations

January 19, 2026, 8:14 PM EST. Google could expand the Pixel 10's Magic Cue with integrations for Google Wallet and Google Tasks, according to a teardown and early screenshots. The feature, a Pixel 10 highlight that underperformed at launch, could become more proactive by pulling live status updates from Google Wallet-such as trains, flights, and events-while enabling clearer reminders via Google Tasks instead of Calendar. In the Magic Cue settings, users already pick data sources like Gmail, Messages, Keep Notes, Calendar, and Contacts; Google Wallet and Google Tasks appear as upcoming options. Google has not announced or rolled out these integrations yet; APK teardowns predict features that may not reach public release.

Pixel 10's Magic Cue could gain Google Wallet and Tasks integrations

January 19, 2026, 8:12 PM EST. Google could expand the Pixel 10's Magic Cue with two new integrations: Google Wallet and Google Tasks. An APK teardown and early screenshots hint at toggles to pull data from Wallet and Tasks, expanding Magic Cue beyond Gmail, Calendar, and Contacts. Proponents say Wallet could show real-time train or flight statuses and event passes stored in Wallet, delivering more proactive updates. Tasks integration could clarify reminders by offering direct access outside of Calendar, potentially streamlining event planning. Google has not announced or rolled out these features, and updates remain speculative pending official confirmation.

BYD extends battery warranty to 250,000 kilometres in Europe and UK

January 19, 2026, 8:06 PM EST. BYD has widened its battery warranty to 250,000 kilometres while keeping the eight-year limit intact. The move, from 200,000 km, mainly benefits high-mileage drivers, though the warranty still ends after eight years. Under ideal conditions, about 31,250 km per year would exhaust the warranty. The extension covers all BYD battery-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, except the eTP3 electric van, as in Norway. The battery warranty remains separate from the standard 6-year/150,000-km vehicle warranty, the 12-year rust-perforation warranty, and the eight-year/150,000-km electric drivetrain guarantee. The SOH cap stays at 70%, so capacity below that level triggers replacement or repair. The change applies in the EEA, Switzerland and the UK and will automatically benefit existing European BYD owners, BYD says.

Apple set to refresh MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max, observers say

January 19, 2026, 8:02 PM EST. Apple released the M5 MacBook Pro last October and is expected to follow with more powerful M5 Pro and M5 Max variants. A January 28 unveiling tied to Apple's new Creator Studio bundle is a popular theory, though it remains speculation. Over the weekend, MacRumors noted extended shipping times for several M4 Pro and M4 Max configurations, a sign of an imminent refresh as Apple manages supply. The upgrade is expected to boost SSD performance and memory bandwidth rather than deliver a redesign. The next major overhaul is planned for late 2026 or early 2027, featuring an all-new design, the M6 chip and an OLED touchscreen. Readers are invited to comment on plans to buy an M5 Pro or M5 Max.

Nvidia's market cap rivals national economies, topping Germany's GDP

January 19, 2026, 7:58 PM EST. Nvidia's market capitalization has reached about $4.57 trillion, briefly eclipsing Germany's annual GDP and positioning the chipmaker as the world's fourth-largest economy behind the United States, China and Germany. Using Yahoo Finance for Nvidia's valuation and IMF GDP figures, the data shows Nvidia's value exceeds Japan's GDP and comes with a workforce-about 36,000 employees-far smaller than many peers. The comparison, while not exact apples-to-apples, highlights how pivotal Nvidia's chips have become to the AI era. The ranking lists Nvidia above Japan, India, the United Kingdom, and others, underscoring the scale its stock market value has attained relative to entire nations. Analysts caution that market cap and GDP measure different things, but the magnitude is striking.

SpaceX pre-IPO access heats up as $1.5 trillion IPO looms

January 19, 2026, 7:56 PM EST. SpaceX is eyeing a 2026 IPO valued near $1.5 trillion, a price tag that would crown it the most valuable space company. Even with forecast revenue around $15 billion in 2025 and rising, the multiple would remain steep. For readers hoping pre-IPO access, platforms serving accredited investors-Hiive, EquityZen, and Forge Global-offer secondary-market trades, often for shares sold by employees. Forge's potential integration with Charles Schwab could ease trades if closed before the IPO. Caveats: intermediaries may route through third parties, leaving you with exposure to a parent entity rather than SpaceX itself. Another route is the publicly traded Ark Venture Fund (ARKVX), which holds pre-IPO tech stakes. High risk, limited liquidity, and timing matter.

NASA moves Artemis 2 moon rocket to launch pad for crewed lunar mission

January 19, 2026, 7:52 PM EST. NASA moved the four-person Artemis 2 crewed spacecraft from the Vehicle Assembly Building at Kennedy Space Center to its launch pad at Cape Canaveral, marking a milestone in the plan to return humans to the Moon. The stacked vehicle combines the Space Launch System (SLS) and the Orion crew module. The crew – Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen – will undertake a roughly 10-day lunar flyby to validate life-support and other systems in deep space. A wet dress rehearsal, including loading cryogenic propellants, is planned for February 2, ahead of launch readiness. If successful, Artemis 2 would be NASA's first crewed lunar mission since Apollo, turning Artemis from a demonstration into a tested capability for crewed exploration.

iPhone 18 Pro rumors: Under-screen Face ID, LTPO+ display and Dynamic Island debate

January 19, 2026, 7:48 PM EST. Rumors around the iPhone 18 Pro family hinge on under-screen Face ID and a redesigned Dynamic Island. A post by ShrimpApplePro claimed a shorter Dynamic Island as Face ID components move under the screen; the claim is unverified and disputed. The Information recently said the front camera could shift to the top-left to eliminate the pill cutout, while ShrimpApplePro floated a smaller island instead. Front Page Tech mocked a combo of the two rumors. ETNews via Jukan cites Samsung infrared tech for under-screen Face ID and an LTPO+ display, a potential boost to battery life. Apple is expected to unveil the devices in September; ShrimpApplePro later deleted the post.

DJI Mini 5 Pro lands on Amazon Prime from $759 with RC-N3 controller

January 19, 2026, 7:42 PM EST. DJI's Mini 5 Pro is now on Amazon with Prime shipping, starting at $759 for the base with RC-N3 controller. It features a 1-inch CMOS sensor, 4K/60fps HDR video, and forward-facing LiDAR obstacle sensing dubbed Nightscape Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing, improving low-light detection. A 225-degree gimbal enables true vertical filming for native portrait video. Battery life ranges from 34 minutes with standard batteries to 52 minutes with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus. Configurations: Fly More Combo at $959 adds two extra batteries, bag, and ND filters; RC 2 at $1,099 includes a built-in 5.5-inch screen; Fly More Combo Plus at $1,349 bundles extended batteries. Availability fluctuates; listing shows 500+ units sold and a 4.6-star rating from ~600 reviews.

PGA Tour Extends AWS Partnership, Expands AI-Driven Content

January 19, 2026, 7:40 PM EST. The PGA Tour is expanding its use of artificial intelligence with Amazon Web Services (AWS). The deal, starting with the Sony Open in Hawaii, will power a new favorite players hub in the Tour's mobile app and website, delivering personalized updates and AI-generated storytelling about golfers a user follows. It also supplies AI-generated graphics and statistics to supplement real-time broadcasts in the Tour's World Feed. The agreement builds on a 2021 AWS relationship that has included AI-driven commentary and automated content. PGA Tour executive VP Dan Glod and AWS chief Kristin Shaff framed the move as part of a broader shift to put data and cloud tools at editorial center. The trend extends across sports media, from UFC to the IOC and Netflix.

Pixel 10a rumored for March 5 launch with 9a-like pricing in Europe

January 19, 2026, 7:34 PM EST. Dealabs backs a March 5 launch for the Pixel 10a, with a February 18 pre-order window in Europe. Pricing mirrors last year's Pixel 9a at €549 for 128GB and €649 for 256GB. All colors are listed with 128GB or 256GB options, though distributor data remains inconsistent about storage across colors. The report comes amid earlier hints from online leaks and a recognition that distributor pricing data is often unreliable. In short, the Pixel 10a isn't shown as a clear upgrade over the 9a, at least in early details; Google could still surprise with undisclosed features.

Pixel 10a rumored for March 5 launch with €549/€649 pricing

January 19, 2026, 7:32 PM EST. Dealabs cites a March 5 launch for Google's Pixel 10a, with a February 18 European pre-order window. Pricing reportedly mirrors the Pixel 9a: €549 for 128GB and €649 for 256GB. All colors are said to offer 128GB and 256GB options, though distributor data is inconsistent, listing only Obsidian at 256GB while Berry, Lavender and Fog show 128GB. The report frames the 10a as not a meaningful upgrade over the Pixel 9a. Google's timing and budget positioning remain unclear, and previous price rumors were based on distributor data that is often unreliable. No official confirmation was provided by press time, and analysts caution that pricing can shift before release.

Pixel 10a rumored for March 5 launch with €549/€649 pricing

January 19, 2026, 7:30 PM EST. The Pixel 10a is back in the rumor mill. A Dealabs report pins a March 5 launch and a February 18 pre-order window in Europe. Pricing is claimed at €549 for 128GB and €649 for 256GB, matching the Pixel 9a. All colors are said to offer 128GB and 256GB options, though distributor data conflicts and shows 256GB only for Obsidian with Berry, Lavender and Fog at 128GB. The launch appears not to be a major upgrade from the Pixel 9a, at least on current details. Google could still surprise with new features; for now, the rumor cycle centers on timing, regional availability and storage variants.

55 US AI startups raise $100M+ in 2025, signaling continued funding momentum

January 19, 2026, 7:22 PM EST. U.S. AI funding momentum persisted in 2025, with 55 startups reporting $100 million-plus rounds, continuing a trend from 2024 that included mega rounds and several $1 billion events. While fewer firms topped $1B in a single raise, more companies secured multiple large rounds, including Anthropic with two such raises. Early 2026 signals suggest continued strength from xAI and Merge Labs. December activity featured Mythic's $125M round led by DCVC; Chai Discovery with a $130M Series B at a $1.2B valuation; Fal's $140M Series D; Unconventional AI's $475M seed; and 7AI's $130M Series A. November included Genspark's $275M Series B at $1.25B and Luma AI's $900M Series C. The list reflects broad investor interest in AI infrastructure and applications.

Asus confirms indefinite hiatus of smartphone business, shifts to AI products

January 19, 2026, 7:20 PM EST. Asus chairman Jonney Shih confirmed at a 2026 kick-off in Taiwan that the group will wind down its smartphone business and will not add new mobile models. The company will instead pursue AI products such as robots and smart glasses. That means no new Zenfone or ROG Phone in 2026, and Shih described an "indefinite wait-and-see" approach to any future phone return. The Zenfone line was known for being smaller and cheaper, but updates lagged behind leaders; the ROG Phone line offered gaming features and premium pricing, with the latest ROG Phone 9 Pro starting around $1,200. Existing devices will receive updates; the ROG Phone 9 Pro is guaranteed two OS updates and five years of security patches, while Zenfones get two Android version updates and four years of security support. This follows an OEM trend as phone upgrades slow.

Asus confirms indefinite hiatus for smartphone business, pivots to AI devices

January 19, 2026, 7:18 PM EST. Asus chairman Jonney Shih confirmed the wind-down of the company's smartphone business at a 2026 kick-off event in Taiwan, with Asus shifting toward AI products such as robots and smart glasses. The report, from Inside, notes Shih said Asus will no longer add new mobile phone models in the future, effectively adopting an indefinite wait-and-see approach. Consequently, don't expect a new Zenfone or ROG Phone in 2026. Existing devices will continue to receive updates, but Asus has lagged behind peers: the ROG Phone 9 Pro offers two OS updates and five years of security patches, while recent Zenfones provide about two Android version updates and four years of security support. Shih's comments point to a long-term shift rather than a return to phones, echoing a broader industry trend.

Asus confirms indefinite hiatus of smartphone business, shifts to AI products

January 19, 2026, 7:04 PM EST. ASUS chief Jonney Shih confirmed at a 2026 kick-off event in Taiwan that the company is winding down its smartphone business to focus on AI products such as robots and smart glasses. The firm will not add new mobile phone models in the future, effectively pausing the Zenfone and ROG Phone lines in 2026, though an outright exit isn't ruled out. Existing devices will receive updates, but ASUS offers limited support: the ROG Phone 9 Pro gets two OS updates and five years of security patches, while Zenfone devices receive two Android version updates and four years of security support. This reflects a broader industry trend as upgrade cycles lengthen.

Nvidia stock faces two-sided bets ahead of February earnings

January 19, 2026, 7:00 PM EST. NVIDIA faces two-sided bets as it nears its February earnings release. The company derives about 90% of revenue from the data-center segment, where its AI accelerators lead the market. At CES, CEO Jensen Huang outlined plans for the Rubin architecture and unveiled Alpamayo, an open-source model for autonomous driving, and announced a Caterpillar partnership to add in-cab AI features. Rival AMD is pressing to narrow Nvidia's lead. The stock has surged roughly 1,500% from a 2022 low but cooled early in the year. Through the first nine months of fiscal 2026, revenue rose 62% to $148 billion, with cost of revenue up 106%. Analysts expect fiscal 2026 revenue growth around 63% and about 50% in fiscal 2027. Net income rose 52% in the period.

Coffee machine cleaner tablets drop to half price on Amazon Canada; plus 10 other gadgets to simplify daily life

January 19, 2026, 6:42 PM EST. An Amazon Canada deal highlights the #1 bestselling Coffee Machine Cleaner Descaler Tablets, now half price at about $20. The 24-tablet pack targets mineral buildup, calcium, and grime that can affect taste and machine life. The author tested the descalers on a Nespresso, noting the tablets work with most machines, including Keurig, Nespresso, and Breville. Key benefits cited: ease of use (drop tablets in water reservoir), sealed packaging, and a year-long supply per pack. The price point is attractive when compared with liquid cleaners. The feature also promises taste improvement and longer machine life. The article also previews 10 additional Amazon gadgets intended to simplify daily tasks.

Pixel 10a price unchanged as leak pins February 18 launch, March 5 release

January 19, 2026, 6:32 PM EST. Dealabs and leaker Evan Blass pin the Pixel 10a's plan in France: price remains €549 for the 128GB model and €649 for the 256GB version, with all four colors offered. The leaks set a February 18 pre-order start and a March 5, 2026 release. Earlier chatter suggested a price drop versus the Pixel 9a, but the new details show stability ahead of launch. The reports from Dealabs and Evan Blass reinforce a mid-February window and price consistency amid a choppy consumer-electronics market.

Musk says work could be optional and money irrelevant in 10-20 years thanks to AI and robotics

January 19, 2026, 6:26 PM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk says AI and robotics could make work optional in 10 to 20 years, likening employment to tending a vegetable garden. He argues millions of robots will lift productivity, pushing work into a voluntary activity. He has pursued a broader AI-driven, robotic vision for Tesla, including a goal that 80% of the company's value could come from its Optimus humanoid robots, despite production delays. Musk floated a post-scarcity future where money loses relevance, citing the Culture novels as inspiration. He warned automation could outnumber human surgeons within the decade and discussed immortality via AI. At Viva Technology 2024, he mentioned a universal high income to sustain a world without work, though details remained sparse.

Apple eyes under-display infrared tech for high-end iPhone OLEDs, signaling possible Face ID shift

January 19, 2026, 6:20 PM EST. Apple is pursuing under-display infrared technology for future high-end iPhone OLED panels, according to a Korean industry report. The move would place IR sensors beneath the display to support a potential under-screen Face ID, a prerequisite for reducing visible front openings even as Apple weighs product timing. The approach, which would work with an LTPO OLED backplane, aims to avoid notches or large cutouts while preserving sensor performance; however, no shipping product is confirmed. Samsung Display and LG Display are described as the only suppliers able to meet the combined LTPO and UDIR requirements at production scale, with Apple's broader supplier diversification continuing to hedge against single-source risk. Challenges include infrared light behavior under OLED, manufacturing yields, and the possibility of staged implementation rather than a single launch.

ASUS will stop making new Android smartphones as it shifts focus to AI

January 19, 2026, 6:12 PM EST. At its 2025 Year-End Gala, ASUS chairman Jonney Shih said the company will 'no longer add new mobile phone models in the future' and will continue to support existing users. The remarks indicate a move away from the Android smartphones market, with resources redirected toward AI. ASUS says it will bolster commercial PCs and physical AI devices, including AI Robot & Robotics and AI Glasses. The shift aligns with a broader pivot toward the AI paradigm, suggesting the company may exit the smartphone market entirely or simply halt new models beyond current lineups. No timeline was provided.

Apple warns of Safari-WebKit flaw exposing hundreds of millions of iPhones to attack

January 19, 2026, 6:00 PM EST. Apple has warned that a serious WebKit flaw in Safari could let attackers run malicious code on iPhones and iPads. The exploit, used in targeted attacks, requires users to visit a compromised site. A patch is in the latest software update, but roughly half of eligible users have not installed it, leaving about 800 million devices at risk worldwide. Data from StatCounter shows even slower uptake. Affected models include iPhone 11 and later, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd gen) and later, iPad Pro 11-inch (1st gen) and later, iPad Air (3rd gen) and later, iPad 8th gen and later, and iPad mini 5th gen and later. There is no setting to enable protection; users must install the update. Apple described the flaw as severe and ongoing exploitation.

Apple AirTag four-pack discount at Amazon drops to $64.98

January 19, 2026, 5:52 PM EST. Mashable reports a record-low on Apple AirTag trackers. A four-pack is listed for $64.98 at Amazon, down from $99 – a 34% discount and $34.02 in savings. The offer was current as of Jan. 19, 2026, but pricing and availability can change after publication. The article emphasizes AirTag as simple, reliable tracking for keys, luggage and other gear. It also notes that products featured are independently selected by editors, with Mashable earning an affiliate commission if readers buy through links. Deal pricing and availability subject to change.

Garmin Quatix 7X Solar Edition blends premium design with marine-ready features

January 19, 2026, 5:48 PM EST. Garmin's premium smartwatch, the Quatix 7X Solar Edition, combines rugged design with marine and outdoor tools. A titanium bezel and rear cover sit on a fiber-reinforced polymer body, and a scratch-resistant sapphire screen backs up the 1.4-inch MIP display. Battery life reaches 26 days, up to 37 days with solar charging. It tracks health metrics, sleep, stress, and a range of activities, and adds coastal and freshwater maps, training guidance, and boat control for compatible MFDs. The watch is priced at $1,100 but is currently 50% off at about $550. In short, a high-end wearable that blends seafaring features with smartwatch smarts.

AI prompts assume latent intent, risking the borrowed mind

January 19, 2026, 5:44 PM EST. AI systems treat a prompt as a degraded encoding of a preexisting target. The model iterates toward completion, not discovery, assuming latent intent exists. Humans, by contrast, begin with productive incoherence-half-formed ideas that slowly become questions. Understanding for people is constructed, not uncovered. The piece argues this latent intent assumption creates a mismatch: the model supplies coherence while the user is still forming the question. LLMs cannot represent "I do not yet know what I am trying to know."; they only signal that the intent has not yet been decoded. The danger is the borrowed mind-external coherence replacing internal construction, accelerating answers at the expense of genuine learning.

iPhone 18 Pro may hide Face ID under display; Dynamic Island question remains

January 19, 2026, 5:38 PM EST. ETNews reports the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will use new Samsung display tech, including LTPO+ and an under-display Face ID sensor. LTPO+ is described as a more efficient version that could extend battery life. The move to under-display Face ID raises a key design question: will Apple still include a Dynamic Island, or relocate the front camera to the upper-left corner with the island shrinking or hiding most features? A rumored mockup and various analysts offer mixed signals. 9to5Mac editors expect the Island to persist but be more dynamic, highlighting Live Activities and now-playing content while remaining largely concealed. Apple has not confirmed this schedule or design choices.

When AI assumes we already know: the borrowed mind of LLMs

January 19, 2026, 5:34 PM EST. The article argues that LLMs treat prompts as incomplete expressions of a latent intent that already exists in the user's mind. It contrasts machine inference with human thinking, which often begins with productive incoherence rather than a neatly formed target. In a language model, a hidden aim preexists the utterance, so iterations optimize toward decoding a target rather than discovering one. This mismatch can produce coherence while the user is still formulating the question, risking a borrowed mind where external fluency substitutes internal construction. The piece frames this as a limit on authentic learning: intelligence becomes the model's completion, not the human's process of growth.

iPhone 18 Pro may shift selfie cam to top-left; Dynamic Island could move left

January 19, 2026, 5:32 PM EST. Rumors about the iPhone 18 Pro suggest a punch-hole selfie camera and an embedded Face ID system beneath the display. A recent report proposes moving the camera to the top-left corner, with the Dynamic Island reoriented accordingly. The Information first floated the corner placement, later echoed by a video render from Jon Prosser showing a left-shifted Dynamic Island. Prosser argues the feature remains useful and would likely move rather than be dropped. Observers note the change would still require a long edge-to-edge screen experience, and the island might need to use the full width to avoid an asymmetric look. Apple enthusiasts are split, but most agree the concept could work in either position. Readers are invited to share views.

Anthropic's Claude Cowork tests C3.ai's platform model and investor thesis

January 19, 2026, 5:30 PM EST. C3.ai faces a mixed backdrop: positive Army logistics wins and ongoing losses, as Anthropic's Claude Cowork enters the enterprise arena and tests C3.ai's traditional, top-down platform model. The move shifts investor focus from pilots and partnerships to the ability to convert pilots into durable, recurring revenue. While government and commercial deals underline execution potential, the near-term catalyst remains improving margins and stabilizing revenue. The most immediate risk is execution-turning pilots into scaled deployments and coexisting with tools like Claude Cowork within a partner-led ecosystem. The Army contract tests this dynamic and will influence sentiment on whether C3.ai can monetize an expanded product line, including an asset-light, agentic AI platform, without eroding margins.

Samsung rolls out Home Up v17.5.00.18 for One UI 8.5 beta with deeper controls and foldable tweaks

January 19, 2026, 5:26 PM EST. Samsung has rolled out Home Up v17.5.00.18 for the One UI 8.5 beta, restoring functionality after compatibility breaks and adding new controls for icons, widgets and folders. A unified panel now groups apps, tasks and contacts. For foldables, Samsung lets users cap how many favorite apps appear on the cover screen and adds a toggle to disable the back gesture for switching apps. You can exclude apps from the Direct Share panel and fixes address layout issues in DIY mode and some widgets. However, enabling blur can cause animation freezes. The update is rolling out via Galaxy Store; sideloading the APK is possible but risky. More devices will receive the updates when a stable OS lands.

Asus exits smartphone business to focus on AI hardware, ending Zenfone and ROG Phone lines

January 19, 2026, 5:24 PM EST. Asus has pulled the plug on its smartphone business, stopping production of the Zenfone and ROG Phone lines to devote resources to AI hardware. Chairman Jonney Shih announced at the year-end gala in Taipei on January 16 that the company will no longer add new mobile models, signaling a permanent exit from smartphones. The shift leaves buyers with fewer options amid fierce rivals like Samsung and Apple and could dampen pricing and innovation, especially in mobile gaming where the ROG Phone carved a niche with features such as shoulder triggers. Existing users will keep software updates and warranties. Asus says its engineers will move to Physical AI projects-robotics and smart glasses-while its AI server business doubles revenue and now accounts for about a fifth of earnings.

iPhone 18 Pro may hide Face ID under display; Dynamic Island design under question

January 19, 2026, 5:22 PM EST. An ETNews report says the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will adopt a new Samsung display tech: LTPO+, an updated oxide backplane that boosts efficiency and may extend battery life, and an under-display IR Face ID system that places the infrared sensors below the screen. The switch could raise questions about how, or if, the Dynamic Island will appear-Apple is said to move the front-facing camera to the upper-left corner of the display. If Face ID sits under glass, the dynamic cutout would have to change. Opinions differ: 9to5Mac argues it could remain but become more dynamic or largely hidden; Jon Prosser circulated a video of a smaller island, though its basis is unclear. Apple has not confirmed details.

AI Regulation Shifts to Enforcement in 2026, Compliance Takes Center Stage

January 19, 2026, 5:20 PM EST. Two Baker Donelson attorneys say 2025 laid groundwork, but 2026 will bring concrete enforcement actions and deadlines in AI governance. In the EU, providers of GPAI must maintain technical documentation and share training-content summaries with the AI Office, with penalties and enforcement taking effect in August 2026. In the U.S., a patchwork of state regulations emerges while Treasury rules curb investments in foreign AI with military or surveillance aims. The analysis urges VCs and PE clients to vet portfolio exposure to restricted foreign AI. A rising risk-agentic AI liability-centers on contracts and indemnification for autonomous errors. Regulators also examine pseudo-mergers and scrutiny of hiring tools, especially biased resume screening requiring bias audits.

Security Bite: Walmart's Apple Pay decision cited as security risk by 9to5Mac

January 19, 2026, 5:10 PM EST. 9to5Mac's Security Bite argues Walmart's decision not to support Apple Pay or any Tap to Pay option creates a real security risk. The piece explains how Apple Pay generates a Device Primary Account Number (DPAN) stored in a dedicated Secure Element and, after biometric verification via the Secure Enclave, releases a one-time token for each purchase. By steering buyers to Walmart Pay or in-app scanning, Walmart links purchases to a user account, enabling data collection and advertising profiles. The article portrays this stance as prioritizing tracking over user privacy, contrasting it with how Apple Pay protects card data and identity. It concludes that, in 2026, omitting Apple Pay is a 'crazy big security risk.'

Bungie's Marathon launches March 5 for $39.99 on Xbox, PS5 and PC

January 19, 2026, 5:08 PM EST. Bungie set a March 5 launch date for Marathon, its PvPvE extraction shooter, priced at $39.99. The game arrives on Xbox Series S/X, PS5 and PC after a delay from September. Players assume the role of a Runner in a 2850 sci-fi setting, teaming up in crews of up to three to explore zones and points of interest. Death drops gear, but loot survives across runs to power future missions. New playtests added proximity chat and a solo-queue option. Marathon lands after ARC Raiders, a top Steam title since late October, and now trails that release by months. Bungie had hoped to beat the competition, but timing shifted.

RAM shortage hits top Chinese smartphone makers, reshaping Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo and customers

January 19, 2026, 5:04 PM EST. A global memory-chip shortage driven by AI infrastructure demand is accelerating, hitting production at major Chinese handset makers. Micron's executive vice president Manish Bhatia warned at a groundbreaking ceremony for a new $100 billion wafer site that high-bandwidth memory is consuming most available capacity, creating a broad deficit for phones and PCs. Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and Transsion are cutting 2026 shipments-Xiaomi and Oppo by more than 20%, Vivo by about 15%, and Transsion's Tecno/Infinix/itel forecast below 70 million. Brands are deprioritizing mid-to-low-end portfolios and even reusing older components; some consider returning 4GB RAM options. The RAM crunch stems from HBM demand for AI accelerators, with wafer capacity tight and DRAM price hikes for servers (60-70%) reverberating into smartphones. New capacity will mostly come in the US, while Asia sites transition to next-gen tech.

DJI Mini 5 Pro review: 50MP 1-inch sensor, LiDAR, HDR in a sub-250g package

January 19, 2026, 5:02 PM EST. DJI's Mini 5 Pro tightens the sub-250g formula with a 50MP 1-inch sensor, a 225-degree tilt for stills and portrait shots, and forward-facing LiDAR for Omnidirectional Obstacle Avoidance. The drone records 4K video up to 120fps and HDR capture, with a 36-minute flight time from a 2788 mAh battery. It keeps the familiar foldable design and weighs officially 249.9 g, though some units top 251 g. Transmission reaches about 20 km (FCC) or 10 km (CE), and it offers Cine, Normal, and Sport modes. DJI touts improved imaging in a compact form, making the Mini 5 Pro a leading option in the sub-250 g drone class, balancing portability with professional-style credentials.

Three AI stocks to buy in 2026: Nvidia and Alphabet lead amid forecast of a $2 trillion AI market by 2032

January 19, 2026, 5:00 PM EST. An early-2026 look at three AI stocks argues for a multi-year growth arc driven by scale, profitability and durable demand in the AI stack. MarketsandMarkets pegs the global AI market at about $372 billion in 2025 and projecting more than $2 trillion by 2032, a CAGR north of 30%. Nvidia is cited as benefiting from robust demand for its accelerated computing solutions and the Rubin platform, with management flagging roughly $500 billion in revenue visibility through 2026 and $150 billion shipped by Q3 FY2026. The company is expanding beyond chips to complete AI server systems, aiming to cut costs per unit of AI output. Alphabet remains a core AI player with a profitable digital ads business funding broader AI aims, supported by a nearly 15.4% CAGR for digital ads through 2030.

Tesla road trip from NoCal to SoCal costs $54.57 in charging, fueling debate over FSD

January 19, 2026, 4:56 PM EST. A Tesla owner who drove 485 miles from Northern California to Southern California says the journey cost $54.57 to charge and took about 10 hours. The TikTok clip shows Full Self-Driving (Supervised) engaged as she sits in the driver's seat. Viewers debated the practicality and safety of using FSD on a long highway run, noting moments when the speedometer hovered in the 40s mph. Tesla's cabin camera is described in the Model 3 manual as monitoring driver attentiveness while the system remains engaged, even with sunglasses. Critics question the time savings; supporters point to reduced hands-on driving as a benefit amid the broader costs of ownership.

Tesla cross-state trip costs revealed: $54 charging on NoCal-to-SoCal drive

January 19, 2026, 4:50 PM EST. A Tesla owner documented a Northern California to Southern California trip, logging 485 miles over about 10 hours with a charging cost of $54.57. The post centers on using Full Self-Driving (Supervised) as the car logged the journey and kept the driver mostly hands-off. The clip drew online reaction: critics noted the dash showing around 43 mph at times, while others said the slow pace under FSD made highway travel bearable. Tesla describes cabin cameras that monitor driver attentiveness during FSD (Supervised), with sunglasses not blocking the system. The broader debate touches on updates to FSD versions 12.41/12.5 and how much human supervision remains required.

Draft KDE Plasma VR mode turns KWin into a full VR desktop

January 19, 2026, 4:32 PM EST. GamingOnLinux.com reports that a draft merge request by Stanislav Aleksandrov proposes a KDE Plasma KWin plugin to run a full VR desktop. The prototype renders everything in 3D-Wayland surfaces, window decorations and shadows-with floating windows and both physical and virtual screens. It uses native Qt rendering via direct dmabuf imports and supports keyboard-centric work flows. A standout feature is headgaze input, a hands-free control method that relies on eye or head movement rather than a mouse, touchpad, or VR controller. The author frames this as an early review before broader polish. The long-term aim is for KWin to operate without flat displays, letting KDE become a true VR Desktop Environment. The draft notes needed work on input, focus control, and additional settings.

Android subscriptions trimmed: free apps replace paid services from Syncthing to NewPipe

January 19, 2026, 4:24 PM EST. Some Android users can trim monthly costs by swapping paid apps for free, open-source, or self-hosted options. The author still values Adobe Lightroom mobile for its photo-edit workflow, but many replacements exist. Syncthing provides device-to-device syncing without cloud fees; setup is a one-time effort and data stays on the local network, with SyncTrayzor on Windows and Syncthing-Fork on Android filling gaps when official clients lag. It supports two-way or one-way sync and avoids monthly charges. Immich acts as a self-hosted alternative to Google Photos, offering faster results. OSS Document Scanner replaces CamScanner, while NewPipe offers a free front-end for YouTube, bypassing some annoyances. The trade-off: more hands-on maintenance, but long-term savings and data control.

Draft KDE Plasma KWin VR Desktop Turns KDE into a Full VR Environment

January 19, 2026, 4:22 PM EST. A KDE developer submitted a draft to turn KWin into a full VR desktop. The plugin creates a 3D environment where windows float and both physical and virtual screens exist; even Wayland surfaces, window decorations and shadows render in 3D. It emphasizes work-ready control with keyboard input and a headgaze mode that works without a mouse, touchpad or VR controller. It relies on native Qt rendering via direct dmabuf imports and offers a Follow Mode. The draft notes that input and focus control need refactoring and several settings are missing, but the author says it works enough for initial review. The long-term aim is for KWin to run without flat displays, enabling a KDE VR Desktop Environment.

Mesa man receives five-year federal sentence for arson at Tesla dealership that destroyed Cybertruck

January 19, 2026, 4:08 PM EST. A Mesa, Arizona resident, Ian William Moses, was sentenced in federal court to five years in prison for a politically motivated arson attack that destroyed a Tesla Cybertruck and damaged a Tesla dealership in April 2025. Prosecutors say Moses approached the Mesa location with a gasoline can, poured fuel on the building and three vehicles, including the Cybertruck, and ignited the blaze before fleeing on a bicycle. He pleaded guilty to five felony counts in October 2025. U.S. District Judge Diane J. Humetewa imposed the sentence, followed by three years of supervised release; restitution is to be settled in April 2026. The case has underscored divisions over Tesla's products and the challenges facing the company amid evolving public perception and sales dynamics.

Trust AI with retirement? Early skeptics say no

January 19, 2026, 3:42 PM EST. Business Insider explores whether people should trust AI to manage or guard their retirement funds. The piece contrasts algorithms that scan markets and retirement rules with traditional advisers who offer human judgment. Some savers welcome AI-driven tools for portfolio balance and risk assessment, arguing they can process vast data faster and remove emotion. Others push back, citing opaque models, data biases, and the stakes of long horizons. Critics say trust should come with human oversight, clear explainability, and options to opt out. The article frames a practical question: can automation reduce errors and costs without sacrificing accountability? In short, many would prefer a blended approach: use AI for analytics, keep a human in the loop for decisions that affect decades of dollars.

Sennheiser HDB 630 review: aptX Adaptive headphones that work with Apple

January 19, 2026, 3:40 PM EST. Price: $499.95. The HDB 630 is pitched to audiophiles who want high-quality Bluetooth without sacrificing convenience. The headphones support both aptX Adaptive and AAC, plus a USB-C wired option. For Apple devices that don't support aptX, Sennheiser bundles a small dongle, the BTD 700, to enable higher-quality Bluetooth. Battery life is described as impressive, and the bundled accessories suit life on the road. Pros include value for money, sound quality, and the dual-path approach: quick wireless pairing via AAC or aptX Adaptive with the dongle for best quality. Cons note the price, a manual that could be clearer, and that not everyone needs aptX. Bottom line: excellent value for those who want top-tier sound and flexible Apple compatibility.

Sennheiser HDB 630 review: aptX Adaptive headphones bridge Apple Bluetooth gap

January 19, 2026, 3:38 PM EST. Reviewers say the Sennheiser HDB 630 delivers audiophile-grade sound at a strong price. The headphones support both aptX Adaptive and AAC Bluetooth codecs, allowing Apple devices to get high-quality wireless audio or easy pairing with non-Apple gear. A companion BTD 700 dongle adds a wired-friendly option for Apple kits that don't support aptX. The package includes a USB-C wired cable and strong battery life, with effective noise cancellation and solid build. At $499.95, it trades some portability for endurance and fidelity, and bundles accessories that suit travel. The flip side: it remains a premium buy, the manual isn't crystal clear, and not everyone needs aptX. Overall, it's aimed at high-performance enthusiasts who value sound quality and flexibility.

ITC opens investigation into Apple, Garmin, Google over fall-detection tech

January 19, 2026, 3:30 PM EST. The US International Trade Commission has voted to launch a Section 337 probe (Inv. No. 337-TA-1477) into fall-detection technology after a patent complaint by UnaliWear, the Kanega Watch maker. The suit names Apple, Garmin, Google, and Samsung and seeks a limited exclusion order that could block imports of devices such as the Apple Watch Series 11, Pixel Watch 4, and Garmin Fenix 8. The ITC says no merits decision yet; an administrative law judge will be assigned, with hearings and a target completion within about 45 days. The case follows Masimo's 2023 use of the mechanism and could push licensing if the patents hold, or disrupt supply chains.

Teen hackers' Armtender AI barista wins national hackathon at world's largest tech conference

January 19, 2026, 3:28 PM EST. A group of teen hackers, including a Chapel Hill student, won first place at a national hackathon with their AI-powered barista robot, called Armtender, at the world's largest tech conference. The project demonstrates how young developers turn code into real-world services, delivering drinks through AI-driven automation. The teens programmed the robot to handle orders and dispense beverages during the hackathon, then showcased it amid other demos at the conference. Organizers framed the win as proof of rising talent capable of merging software with hardware for customer-facing tasks. The achievement highlights growing interest in autonomous service robots at major industry showcases and underscores the role of student teams in shaping next-generation tech tools.

Some Galaxy Watch 4 models still waiting for Wear OS 6 update

January 19, 2026, 3:24 PM EST. Samsung began rolling out One UI 8 built on Wear OS 6 to Galaxy Watch 4 devices in December, but the update remains uneven. Bluetooth models in Europe, India, South Korea and the US have received the new OS, while cellular variants are still on One UI 7. The rollout, which started December 16, may mark the last major update for the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic, the first to leave Tizen in favor of Wear OS. One UI 8 introduces UI refinements and new health features, plus a revamped tiles interface. No official explanation has been given for the missing updates, and Samsung has not commented on carrier-specific delays.

UK AI regulation: opportunity for speed and scale amid uncertainty

January 19, 2026, 3:20 PM EST. UK remains a global AI hub, with strong funding and talent, yet no general statutory regulation. The US and China lean to a light-touch, innovation-first stance; the EU is simplifying its AI Act to shield citizens without stifling growth. Rich Potter of Peak argues the UK must craft its own path, or risk losing talent while needing major infrastructure investment. As regulatory uncertainty persists, UK firms have a window to show how to implement AI with real impact. The next year is likely to expose when two years of rapid adoption yields tangible value and reveals the cost of shortcuts. This is not pessimism but maturity: move beyond demos to genuine transformation through infrastructure and execution speed.

Apple M4 MacBook Air (2025) Hits Lowest Price Ever Ahead of New Laptop Launch This Year

January 19, 2026, 3:18 PM EST. Amazon slashed the price of the Apple M4 MacBook Air (2025) by 20% to $799, for all colors. The 13.6-inch MacBook features a Liquid Retina display with up to 1 billion colors, a 12MP Center Stage camera, three mics and four speakers with Spatial Audio. Powered by the M4 chip, it supports Apple Intelligence for writing, translating and creativity. A 256GB SSD handles files and apps. Ports include two Thunderbolt 4 ports, MagSafe, a headphone jack; it supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, plus up to two external displays and iPhone Mirroring. Battery life reaches about 18 hours per charge. The offer is time-limited, with discounts on Apple products not guaranteed to last; availability varies by color.

Kia EV4 debuts in Australia, undercuts Tesla Model 3 on price

January 19, 2026, 3:16 PM EST. Kia EV4 launches in Australia as it competes with the Tesla Model 3 and BYD. The sedan arrives in showrooms this month, with first deliveries by the end of January. It sits on the same Hyundai E-GMP-based 400-volt platform and offers two battery options. The base Air uses a 58.3 kWh pack for a WLTP range of 456 km, while Earth and GT-Line use an 81.4 kWh pack for 612 km. Prices start at AUD 49,990 before on-road costs, undercutting the Model 3 RWD at AUD 54,900. BYD's Seal starts at AUD 46,990 but offers less range. Fast charging runs 29 minutes from 10% to 80% on Air and 31 minutes on Earth/GT-Line. The interior uses Kia's ccNC system; Earth adds V2L, 19-inch wheels, heated seats. GT-Line adds head-up display and Harman Kardon sound.

Tesla owner locked inside after 110-mile charge at Wawa charger; Tesla cites charging-port fault and low-voltage system issue

January 19, 2026, 3:10 PM EST. An issue with a Model Y charging session at a newly opened Wawa charger left Emma Renee and her 15-year-old son briefly trapped inside and locked out. After plugging in, the car showed about 110 miles of remaining range, then immediately announced 'Vehicle power reduced. Powering down,' with doors unresponsive. Viewers debated whether the main high-voltage battery was affected, but experts noted the fault likely involved the low-voltage electrical system that powers doors, screens and controls. Modern Teslas use a separate 12-volt battery to power essential functions; a failure can render the car unresponsive even if the main battery is healthy. Tesla service reportedly diagnosed a charging-port fault that shorted the low-voltage system. The charger was newly installed at a recently opened Wawa, prompting questions about installation and safety.

UnaliWear sues Apple, Google, Garmin and Samsung over smartwatch fall-detection patents

January 19, 2026, 2:58 PM EST. UnaliWear has filed patent-infringement lawsuits against Apple, Google, Garmin and Samsung over fall detection technology used in popular smartwatches. The wearable-maker says its RealFall system can distinguish genuine falls from normal movement, and that the defendants copied the concept. The case is before the US International Trade Commission, with responses due by late January and a decision expected in about a year. An adverse ruling could prompt a limited import ban on affected devices or trigger licensing deals; a broader ban would be unlikely, analysts say. Apple has faced similar scrutiny in the past, notably the Masimo dispute, which led to model-specific restrictions and a workaround. The outcome could push rivals toward licensing or alternative designs for fall detection features.

Samsung's Home Up gains major feature upgrade in One UI 8.5 beta

January 19, 2026, 2:54 PM EST. Samsung's Home Up module is getting a major upgrade in the One UI 8.5 beta. The update adds widgets controls to adjust content size (scaling from 80%), and lets users remove the blur from widget backgrounds. It also expands Edge Panels by combining apps, tasks and people into a single panel for quicker access. Galaxy Z Fold 7 users gain customizable cover-screen favorites. Gesture navigation can be disabled to prevent accidental swipes. The Direct Share menu can be pared down by removing unused apps. Samsung's notes cite a bug fix for misaligned home screens. The update rolls out via the Galaxy Store to One UI 8.5 beta users; those on One UI 8 should avoid installing due to reset issues. (Source: SammyGuru).

Smart money buys cheaper panels as high-end monitors offer diminishing returns

January 19, 2026, 2:52 PM EST. Premium computer monitors carry premium price tags, but higher cost doesn't always translate into proportionate gains. OLED panels can deliver superior picture quality versus LCDs, and high-end monitors often offer faster response times and higher resolutions for gaming and productivity. Yet the extra expense brings diminishing returns for many buyers as features multiply. Take the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM as an example: it lists at about $1,099 on Amazon, with a $100 discount. Some top-tier panels can exceed $5,000. Still, for most users value hinges on use case rather than price alone. RTings has ranked such models among the best of 2026, but the money saved on cheaper panels can cover broader needs while delivering adequate performance.

Samsung Galaxy One UI 8.5 adds adjustable large folders via Good Lock Home Up

January 19, 2026, 2:42 PM EST. Samsung's One UI 8.5 expands home-screen customization by letting users fine-tune large folders with the Good Lock Home Up module. The update follows One UI 7's enlarged folders and One UI 8.5's further tweaks. To use it, install Good Lock from the Galaxy Store or Google Play and download the Home Up module (version 17.5.00.18 is required; an APK may be used if the update isn't available). In Good Lock, enable Home Up, go to Home screen, select Large folder, and turn on the feature. Choose between Custom, Medium, and Large sizes; Custom lets you resize by long-pressing on the home screen. You can adjust icon size, disable the background blur, and enable scrolling across up to two pages.

5 Essential TV Apps for Cable Cutters

January 19, 2026, 2:40 PM EST. Cable cutters can build a flexible home theater with smart TVs and streaming devices. The roundup favors apps that bridge local libraries, cloud access and live viewing. Kodi is highlighted as a free, open-source media center with plugins, local-network streaming and room to add games and emulators; it has about 50 million downloads on the Google Play Store. The piece also covers Plex, which centralizes media management across devices. The guidance relies on years of testing, user and reviewer feedback, and install counts to surface essential apps across Android, Roku OS and webOS. The goal: access movies, TV and music without traditional cable while keeping setup simple and adaptable to different viewing habits.

Apple tops China smartphone market as holiday iPhone sales surge

January 19, 2026, 2:32 PM EST. Apple reclaimed the top spot in China's smartphone market as iPhone shipments rose about 28% in the holiday quarter, even as the market shrank about 1.6%. Counterpoint Research said Apple's latest models accounted for about one in five phones shipped in China. Huawei and Xiaomi posted double-digit declines, indicating strong demand for premium devices. Analysts noted high-end iPhones are less pressured by ongoing memory chip shortages affecting lower-end models. For the year, Apple finished behind Huawei with about 17% market share; Huawei also around 17%. The iPhone Air underperformed, but steady demand for core models pushed shipments up 7.5% in 2025. Industry watchers expect rising memory prices in early 2026 to favor brands focused on high-end devices such as Apple.

Zacks Outlook Sees Growth for Globalstar, Iridium and Gilat in LEO-Driven Satellite Era

January 19, 2026, 2:26 PM EST. Zacks Equity Research flags a dynamic, uncertain outlook for the Satellite & Communication group as macro headwinds-inflation, supply chains and evolving trade policies-weigh on demand. High capital spending and long ROI cycles could compress margins and deter new entrants. Spectrum allocation, orbital congestion and regulatory approvals remain key risks. Yet the sector is undergoing a transformative phase driven by rapid technological progress and rising global connectivity. Growth in space-based infrastructure and the spread of LEO satellite broadband-Starlink, OneWeb-are lifting demand. AI, Machine Learning and Big Data open new use cases across industries. Globalstar, Iridium and Gilat may benefit from higher defense budgets, geopolitical tensions and demand for high-quality imagery and value-added services.

Android Auto tweaks deliver a smoother, hands-free morning commute

January 19, 2026, 2:16 PM EST. A driver says deep Android Auto settings turn a routine commute into a smoother, hands-free drive. By leaving the default interface and venturing into hidden menus, they enabled practical shortcuts: set Android Auto to Always start, including Start Android Auto automatically even when the phone is locked, and enable Start music automatically. They also customized the launcher to reduce taps. The result is an instant, pocket-to-dashboard connection and fewer interruptions, boosting productivity on morning drives. The changes preserve security via encrypted connections and avoid biometric hassles. In short, targeted tweaks to Android Auto can translate into real-world efficiency without sacrificing safety.

Andreessen Horowitz makes a $3 billion bet against the AI bubble

January 19, 2026, 2:08 PM EST. Bloomberg reports that a16z's AI push spans back-end tools and infrastructure. The firm built a $1.25 billion war chest for AI infrastructure in 2024 and this month pledged another $1.7 billion. It treats AI infrastructure as software sold to technical buyers, from coding apps to foundational models. Early bets are paying off: Stripe agreed to buy Metronome for about $1 billion; Salesforce bought Regrello; Meta acquired WaveForms. A pair of high-profile bets include a two-month-old AI coding startup that raised a $475 million seed round and a platform ranking AI models valued near $2 billion after a spin-out from academia. Co-founder Ben Horowitz says it's too soon to judge the fund's performance, but calls it among the best he's seen. The debate centers on whether AI software delivers real value amid soaring valuations.

Apple rumored to add 5G satellite support to iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max

January 19, 2026, 2:06 PM EST. Apple is rumored to equip the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max with 5G via satellite, potentially becoming the first devices to support real-time satellite connectivity. The Emergency SOS via satellite feature on the iPhone 14 remains free for two years, with no charges announced. The rumor, posted on yeux1122's blog, suggests a capability that could include voice and data, not just text. If true, 5G via satellite would differ from Emergency SOS via satellite by offering continuous reception and higher bandwidth-Mbps to Gbps-without manual satellite alignment. Monetization is expected to depend on carriers, likely limiting initial availability to select regions. Apple's timing and carrier partnerships are unconfirmed.

Apple rumored to add 5G satellite connectivity to iPhone 18 Pro models later this year

January 19, 2026, 2:02 PM EST. Rumors suggest Apple will equip the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max with 5G via satellite connectivity, making them among the first to support satellite-based data beyond Emergency SOS via satellite. The claim, anchored to a post on yeux1122's blog and reported by Wccftech, distinguishes the feature from current Emergency SOS via satellite, which is text-only and requires a clear sky. Proponents say 5G via satellite would offer continuous voice and data services with bandwidth improving from kilobits to Mbps and even Gbps. Monetization would hinge on carrier deals and may start in a single region. Apple has not publicly confirmed any such plan. As with most rumors, timing and availability remain uncertain.

Android Auto tweaks speed startup, boost productivity on commutes

January 19, 2026, 2:00 PM EST. Drivers can adjust key settings: set Start Android Auto automatically to Always, enable Start Android Auto while locked, and switch on Start music automatically. The article notes many head units default to 'If used during the last drive,' which can slow access. For the author, forcing these options lets the phone stay in pocket while the head unit connects instantly-a smoother, safer experience. A custom launcher for Android Auto is also covered, simplifying access to maps and music. The result is a faster, more productive morning commute, with fewer taps. The piece frames the tweaks as convenient and practical, while noting security trade-offs may vary by system and policy.

Apple marks Martin Luther King Jr. Day with full-page homepage tribute

January 19, 2026, 1:54 PM EST. Apple has refreshed its homepage with a full-page tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. for MLK Day, a feature the company has run for more than a decade. The page spotlights King's quotes and directs users to explore his legacy via Apple Books and Apple Podcasts. Photos depict King visiting a Miami church, speaking in Birmingham, and addressing crowds in Jackson. Apple says the tribute honors his life and legacy. CEO Tim Cook also paid tribute on social media, posting that King's work embodies service, justice and the belief that the belief that "everybody can be great, because everybody can serve". Federal holiday observances can quiet the news cycle, but Apple maintains the tribute today.

Marathon release date leaks via Xbox Store pre-order trailer; Deluxe Edition noted

January 19, 2026, 1:52 PM EST. An Xbox Store pre-order trailer for Bungie's extraction shooter Marathon appears to have revealed a 5 March release date and a Deluxe Edition, though the clip has since been removed. The footage is still circulating online, and the official blurb describes the Tau Ceti 4 setting with PvPvE play and proximity chat. Bungie had previously signaled a March release without a fixed date. The leak follows Bungie's recent personnel note: art director Joseph Cross announced his departure, after it emerged Marathon used artist Antireal's work without permission. Cross said he was proud of the visuals, but left the studio by his own choice. Bungie has not publicly confirmed the leaked date.

I restarted using Apple Watch after two years and can't believe I ever quit

January 19, 2026, 1:34 PM EST. Two years away from wearables, a once-anti-watch author dipped back into the Apple Watch. The piece follows a Galaxy Watch 4 Classic user who quit smartwatches due to constant buzzing, overlapping notifications, and the dual chargers burden. After pairing with an iPhone out of curiosity, the author finds the Apple Watch offers a polished experience, powered by features like the rings that prompt activity without nagging, and a more intuitive interface. The skepticism toward Wear OS and Google's Gemini is acknowledged, while the author notes data fatigue and the lack of a universal charging standard (USB-C) as major pain points. Poll results show a split: many had quit, most always wore one, or returned later. The comeback reflects a reframe of daily use and convenience in a connected life.

DJI Mini 4K Drone Combo discounted to $309 with 21% off

January 19, 2026, 1:26 PM EST. DJI's DJI Mini 4K Camera Drone Combo is on sale, dipping 21% off to $309. The bundle includes the drone, remote controller and batteries. It blends entry-level pricing with premium tools: three-axis stabilization, robust wind resistance, and one-tap takeoff and landing. It records 4K video and transmits footage up to 10 kilometers from the controller. With two batteries, flight time runs to about 62 minutes. The drone emphasizes portability and ease of use while offering features that appeal to newer pilots seeking better angles. The retailer cautions the deal could end at any time, so buyers should act quickly to avoid full price at Amazon.

YouTube TV price cut to $59.99/month for first two months with 10-day trial

January 19, 2026, 1:24 PM EST. Google has introduced a promotional offer for YouTube TV: a 10-day free trial and a discounted price of $59.99 per month for the first two months. The deal reduces the usual $82.99 monthly rate by about $23, and applies only to new subscribers who have not previously subscribed to YouTube TV. After the trial and promo period, the price resets to $82.99, subject to change. The offer is available through YouTube TV's website and runs through March 17, 2026. Subscribers are auto-billed at the discounted rate during the promo, with the option to cancel the trial at no charge before it ends and to cancel the base plan anytime.

Israel launches national AI supercomputer to boost innovation and competitiveness

January 19, 2026, 1:20 PM EST. Israel has launched its national AI supercomputer, a key pillar of the Telem Program under the Israel Innovation Authority. Nebius will operate and provide access to the computing resources, which are already live. Over the next years, the program will distribute up to 1,000 Nvidia B200 accelerators, with 70% reserved for hi-tech companies training large-scale models and 30% for academic research. The authority says the allocation may expand if demand grows. The move aims to reinforce Israel's AI ecosystem and keep the country competitive in the global race for computing power. Access will be via discounted accelerators to ease costs as demand for GPUs rises.

Apple to power Siri with Google Gemini under multi-year deal

January 19, 2026, 1:18 PM EST. Apple will use Google's Gemini AI model to power an updated Siri, launching later this year under a multi-year contract that covers Gemini-powered features and cloud infrastructure. Apple said the move aims to accelerate its in-house Apple Intelligence initiative while preserving user privacy, with features running on device or in a secure cloud. The deal marks a milestone for Google in its AI race with Apple, which also relies on OpenAI's ChatGPT for some features. Analysts welcomed the development; Wedbush's Dan Ives called it an incremental positive. Financial terms were not disclosed, though Bloomberg previously reported about $1 billion per year. Shares for both companies rose slightly; Google's market cap crossed $4 trillion during the session.

Rapid DC charging may double EV battery degradation, Geotab study finds

January 19, 2026, 1:16 PM EST. Geotab's analysis of more than 22,700 EVs across 21 makes and models finds the average annual battery degradation rose to 2.3% in 2025 from 1.8% in 2024. The study links higher degradation to heavy use of DC fast chargers above 100 kW, with rates reaching about 3.0% annually-roughly twice that of lower-power charging. Batteries in hot climates degrade about 0.4 percentage points faster than those in milder conditions. The metric used is state of health (SOH), which for a 60 kWh pack at 80% SOH behaves like 48 kWh. Geotab notes batteries are lasting well beyond replacement cycles, but charging behavior now plays a larger role in aging. The firm emphasizes fleet managers can use these insights to optimize charging strategies.

Tom Snyder: AI customer service saves money, but at a cost to satisfaction

January 19, 2026, 1:14 PM EST. AI-powered customer service promises lower costs and faster responses. Yet the article argues the real drag is system architecture: context often fails to travel when you are escalated. Companies deploy chatbots, voice agents and AI 'humans,' but customers repeat information. The root cause lies in older design choices: digital systems favored structured data, minimizing energy use and storage. Compression, standardization and databases shaped data flow. The result is measurable savings on the ledger but diminished satisfaction and trust. The piece argues that AI should not be judged by surface polish; true improvements require context continuity and a rethink of data architecture.

OnePlus Watch Lite review: budget smartwatch with long battery life

January 19, 2026, 1:12 PM EST. OnePlus' budget smartwatch, the OnePlus Watch Lite, delivers a sleek stainless steel frame and a vivid AMOLED display. Battery life stands out, lasting longer than its siblings even under heavy use. At a friendly price, it nails the basics: a clean, surprisingly slick software experience and a solid mix of smartwatch and fitness features. The price comes at the cost of true smartness: there is no Wear OS, no payments, no app store, and no Google Assistant. No external sensor support for sports tracking either, and the OHealth app isn't the most user-friendly. Still, for those who want a stylish, long-lasting tracker without daily charging, it's a compelling option. Availability varies; the US is limited, while Europe and the UK offer easier access.

EU to decide if AI sexualized deepfakes fall under bans as labeling rule nears

January 19, 2026, 1:10 PM EST. The EU is weighing whether AI-generated deepfakes should fall under existing bans as it updates the bloc's AI liability rules. The current law requires labeling of deepfakes, a step due in August 2026, but it does not bar all such content yet. The Commission must decide whether these deepfakes fit a pre-existing ban on manipulative or deceptive AI or whether a new prohibition should be added. The regulation also requires annual reviews, which can spark amendments. AI governance expert Laura Caroli warned that changing the ban list could create headaches, likening it to Pandora's box, as some member states opposed certain bans and a smooth path is far from guaranteed.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra set to redefine 2026 flagship with 200 MP camera and privacy display

January 19, 2026, 12:50 PM EST. Samsung plans to launch the Galaxy S26 Ultra on February 26, 2026, positioning it as a premium flagship with notable advances in camera, memory, and privacy. The device centers on a 200 MP main sensor with an f/1.4 aperture, complemented by a 50 MP telephoto for improved low-light performance. Samsung emphasizes image processing and light capture over sheer megapixels. Internally, it ships with 16 GB RAM and offers up to 1 TB storage to support multitasking, video editing, and large apps. A privacy-focused OLED display blocks side viewing angles and can be tuned to activate for specific apps, locations, or times. The combination targets professionals and power users seeking security alongside performance.

Prosser: iPhone 18 Pro Dynamic Island moves to top-left amid under-display Face ID rumors

January 19, 2026, 12:48 PM EST. Apple's iPhone 18 Pro trials a UI shift: the Dynamic Island reportedly moves to the top-left corner as Apple tests an under-display Face ID and a hidden front camera. Prosser says the feature would still expand from the corner to cover the upper screen. Other rumors mention a TrueDepth under-display camera or a smaller Dynamic Island, with mixed takes from The Information's Wayne Ma, Ross Young, Bloomberg, and Instant Digital. Prosser's video repeats long-standing rumors-new colors, a variable-aperture camera, and a potential A20 Pro chip-without clear verification. The September unveiling remains the target, and the proposed changes could alter how notifications and ongoing activities appear on the display.

Tesla restarts Dojo 3 as AI5 design stabilizes, targeting high-volume AI chips

January 19, 2026, 12:44 PM EST. Tesla restarts Dojo 3, its in-house AI compute project, after confirming the AI5 chip design is in good shape. Elon Musk posted on X that Tesla will resume work on Dojo 3 and is hiring engineers to build what he expects will be the highest-volume AI chips in the world. Applicants are asked to email [email protected] with three bullet points on the toughest problems they've solved. The update follows Musk's broader AI roadmap: AI4 for self-driving safety, AI5 to make cars near-perfect and boost Optimus, AI6 for Optimus and data centers, and AI7/Dojo 3 for space-based compute. Earlier, Musk suggested clustering AI5/AI6 chips could substitute for a Dojo successor but later signaled a renewed Dojo focus.

AI-generated track barred from Sweden's Official Charts after Spotify success

January 19, 2026, 12:42 PM EST. An AI-generated Danish-backed track was barred from Sweden's official charts after a Sverigetopplistan review found it to be mainly AI-created. The song, Jag vet, du är inte min by Jacub, topped Spotify's Swedish Top 50 and drew about 6.3 million plays, while Jacub amassed roughly 935,800 monthly listeners, mostly in Sweden. IFPI Sweden said the track was excluded from Sverigetopplistan because it does not meet current rules. The decision follows an investigation led by journalist Emanuel Karlsten and based on registrations at STIM and Stellar, a Copenhagen publisher linked to five authors, including Stellar co-founders, an intern, and a Swedish artist. IFPI emphasizes: AI-generated songs cannot claim top positions on the official chart.

DJI Mini 4K drone on Amazon sale for $239, 20% off

January 19, 2026, 12:40 PM EST. Mashable, citing contributor Lauren Allain, reports the DJI Mini 4K drone is on sale at Amazon for $239, down from the $299 list price – a 20% discount that matches the product's record-low price as of Jan. 19, 2026.

DJI Mini 4K drone drops to $239 on Amazon, 20% off

January 19, 2026, 12:38 PM EST. Mashable reports the DJI Mini 4K drone is on sale at Amazon for $239, down from $299. The 20% discount matches a record-low price at the retailer. Deal pricing and availability can change after publication.

China suffers first double rocket-launch failure in a single day

January 19, 2026, 12:34 PM EST. China logged two rocket-launch failures in a single day, a first for its space program. The state-owned Long March-3B failed at liftoff from Xichang as the third stage malfunctioned, costing the Shijian-32 satellite. Later the same day, private Galactic Energy's Ceres-2 maiden flight failed, wiping out the commercial satellites it carried. The incidents drew observers who called it a setback and part of the growing pains of a rapidly expanding industry, noting parallels with SpaceX's early hiccups and its emphasis on learning from failures. Authorities cited no immediate plan changes as the country presses ahead with both state and private space programs.

China suffers unprecedented double rocket launch failures in a single day

January 19, 2026, 12:32 PM EST. Two Chinese rocket launches failed on the same day, marking a historic setback for the country's space programme. The first, a state-run Long March-3B from Xichang, suffered a third-stage malfunction that cost the Shijian-32 satellite and ended a string of successes dating to 2020, according to CASC. Later, private firm Galactic Energy saw its maiden flight of the Ceres-2 fail, destroying the commercial payloads. Officials attributed the Long March issue to a technical fault. Social media dubbed the day Black Saturday. Observers called it growing pains in China's fast-developing aerospace sector, with some likening the experience to SpaceX's recovery-and-repeat approach to rapid launches.

Apple posts +13% adjusted EPS in Wedgewood Partners' Q4 2025 letter

January 19, 2026, 12:30 PM EST. Apple Inc. contributed to Wedgewood Partners' Q4 2025 letter with adjusted earnings per share growth of +13%, driven by 15% revenue growth in its services business, which accelerated and topped $100 billion in revenue over the last 12 months. The note highlights holiday-quarter strength in iPhone revenues and ongoing hardware/software upgrades plus increasing proprietary silicon content. Wedgewood ranks Apple 8th among 30 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds, with 166 portfolios at quarter-end. Apple closed at $255.52 on Jan 16, 2026, and the letter frames the stock against mixed returns and headline risk from AI investment crowding and valuation pressure. The firm's take illustrates continued demand for a high-quality tech core in a volatile year.

Samsung's One UI 8.5 beta 4 on the way as Bixby upgrade tied to Perplexity

January 19, 2026, 12:26 PM EST. Samsung's One UI 8.5 beta is nearing its fourth release. Android Authority reports that the changelog for the upcoming beta has leaked. The update is expected to land this week, potentially by Friday, January 23. The centerpiece remains a revamped Bixby, thought to be the Perplexity-powered version rumored for weeks. Tarun Vats, an Android Authority tipster, shared the changelog for beta 4, noting the update hasn't arrived publicly yet but is likely soon. The fourth build focuses on bug fixes, with the Bixby overhaul drawing attention. Samsung reportedly plans to deploy Perplexity AI to improve Bixby's responses across devices running One UI 8.5 globally. A leaked preview suggested the redesign, and the upgrade could roll out alongside the Galaxy S26 era. Other patches address bugs introduced by earlier betas, per Vats.

Samsung's One UI 8.5 beta nears release with Perplexity-powered Bixby expansion

January 19, 2026, 12:24 PM EST. Samsung's One UI 8.5 beta is inching toward a wider release alongside the Galaxy S26 lineup, with a fourth beta circulating in leaks. The changelog, shared by Tarun Vats, signals bug fixes and updates rather than a major overhaul. Most attention centers on Bixby, which is expected to get a Perplexity AI-powered upgrade to improve responses. The update is not publicly available yet, but sources say it could land later this week, potentially between today and Friday, January 23. Samsung has already pushed three beta builds ahead of a rumored near-term launch. If the preview arrives, it would mark another step toward a global rollout of One UI 8.5, with Samsung signaling a continued beta cycle ahead of the next-series devices.

Satellite Photography Service Market 2026: AI, Asia-Pacific Growth to $8.4 Billion by 2030

January 19, 2026, 12:16 PM EST. The satellite photography service market is expanding on multispectral and hyperspectral imaging, and AI-driven analytics, with rising demand from smart cities, resource management, mining, maritime and environmental monitoring. Global revenue climbed to $4.92 billion in 2025 and is forecast at $5.48 billion in 2026, a CAGR of about 11.4%; by 2030 the market could reach $8.4 billion at roughly 11.3% annual growth. Growth drivers include commercial satellite imagery, real-time analytics, and automated processing. Asia-Pacific is expanding fastest, while North America led in 2025. Notable moves include Privateer's 2024 acquisition of Orbital Insight and EOS Data Analytics' EOS SAT-1 (11 spectral bands) for agricultural monitoring. Major players: Airbus, Planet Labs, ICEYE, Spire, BlackSky.

Opinion: DJI Dominates The Drone Market; The US Is Falling Behind

January 19, 2026, 12:14 PM EST. The piece argues that a U.S. ban on new DJI drones, effective Dec. 23, 2025, doesn't change the arithmetic: DJI controls a vast share of the market and global patent activity. Citing Dedrone 2025 data, the author notes DJI commands roughly 70-90% of consumer drones and about 83% of detections in operational theaters. It asserts the manufacturing gap is wide: the U.S. ecosystem of roughly 500 firms produces under 100,000 units yearly, while Ukraine demonstrates large-scale FPV production. The author contends domestic alternatives do not exist and won't, arguing five pillars explain DJI's success: capability, affordability, availability, intelligence, and integration of software and hardware. The piece frames the political debate as a misreading of reality, urging policymakers to accept that the U.S. cannot realistically catch up to DJI and warn against ongoing harm to operators and safety.

DJI Dominance Persists as U.S. Drone Push Falls Behind

January 19, 2026, 12:12 PM EST. DroneXL's Editor in Chief argues the United States cannot catch up with DJI, and that banning new drones won't yield domestically produced substitutes. Citing Dedrone 2025 data, DJI commands 70-90% of the global consumer drone market and 83.48% of drone detections in operational theaters. The piece notes China accounts for 79% of 2024 drone patents and 87% of filings since 2015, with DJI alone holding about 18,937 patents. It contrasts the US industry's roughly 500 firms producing under 100,000 units annually with Ukraine's 2 million FPV drones per year. The author highlights five pillars of DJI's success: capability, affordability, availability, software integration, and more. The article says the ban reflects politics, not consumer demand, drawing on eight years of reporting and on-the-record statements.

Gartner forecasts global AI spending to reach $2.52 trillion in 2026

January 19, 2026, 12:10 PM EST. Gartner forecasts global AI spending will reach $2.52 trillion in 2026, up 44% from the prior year. Much of the growth comes from AI infrastructure, with AI-optimized servers seen rising 49% and accounting for about 17% of total AI outlays. Gartner also pegs $401 billion in additional spending tied to AI infrastructure in 2026. Progress will rely on organizational maturity and proven business value, not just visionary pilots. The firm places AI in the trough of disillusionment before the plateau of productivity, expecting most sales to come from existing software vendors rather than standalone ventures. Full-scale adoption awaits more predictable return on investment in larger organizations.

Gartner: global AI spending to reach $2.52 trillion by 2026

January 19, 2026, 11:56 AM EST. Gartner projects global AI spending to hit $2.52 trillion in 2026, up 44% from 2025. Much of the growth stems from AI infrastructure, with servers engineered for AI set to rise about 49% and account for roughly 17% of total AI outlay. The report says AI infrastructure construction will add about $401 billion in 2026. Investments will lean on organizational maturity and proven business value rather than pilots. Gartner places AI in the "trough of disillusionment" before a "plateau of productivity," and expects sales mainly through existing software vendors rather than standalone ventures. Only when ROI becomes more predictable can AI scale in larger organizations.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra rumors sharpen focus on camera, performance, charging

January 19, 2026, 11:44 AM EST. Ahead of Samsung's Unpacked event expected Feb. 25 in San Francisco, leaks sketch how the Galaxy S26 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max will stack up. The S26 Ultra is billed as a camera monster with a 200MP main sensor, wider f/1.4 aperture, and rumored 60W wired charging, plus a switch to Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and up to 16GB RAM, potentially ditching Exynos. The iPhone 17 Pro Max centers on video and color science, with a triple 48MP setup and Apple's continued emphasis on smooth performance, backed by the A19 Pro chip with a vapor cooling system. The Bottom Line: S26 Ultra targets power users and extreme zoom; iPhone 17 Pro Max aims for consistent, movie-quality results with long-term speed.

HANNspree Lumo tablet with ecoVISION paper-like display debuts with Android 14

January 19, 2026, 11:42 AM EST. The Lumo tablet uses an ecoVISION Display that reflects ambient light like paper, delivering color with less glare and blue light. It sports a 7.8-inch screen with 16.7 million colors, a 60Hz refresh and a 5ms response. Running Android 14, it pairs long battery life with full app access, in a device that weighs 250g and is 6.6mm thin. An optional HANNspree USI 2.0 stylus offers 4096 levels of pressure, palm rejection and an eraser button, plus 10-point multi-touch for pen and finger input. With built-in speakers and a microphone, Lumo targets students, professionals and users with eye sensitivity or CVS, seeking portable, paper-like viewing without sacrificing tablet performance.

Airbnb hire hints at Apple Car project Titan, signaling self-driving ambitions

January 19, 2026, 11:38 AM EST. Airbnb's announcement of Ahmad Al-Dahle as chief technology officer appears to confirm longstanding whispers about Apple's secret self-driving car effort, known as Project Titan. The former Apple engineer led the company's autonomous technology group and helped develop AI systems for Apple's car project, Chesky's post claims. TechRadar flagged the disclosure after Airbnb publicly highlighted Al-Dahle's Apple tenure, including work on the iPhone display and Apple Watch. The public acknowledgement, coming years after reports of Apple abandoning the car project, underscores Silicon Valley's open secret: Apple has pursued electric or autonomous vehicles for years. While NDA and discretion surround former Apple staff, the Airbnb post serves as a rare official nod to self-driving ambitions.

Threads edges out X in mobile daily users, new data shows

January 19, 2026, 11:32 AM EST. New data from Similarweb show Threads now has more mobile daily active users than X, with 141.5 million DAU on iOS and Android as of Jan. 7, 2026, versus 125 million for X. On the web, X remains ahead at about 145.4 million daily visits, while Threads totals 8.5 million. The shift on mobile appears driven by cross-promotions from Facebook and Instagram, a creator focus, and rapid feature rollouts-communities, filters, DMs, long-form text, disappearing posts, and tests of games. Analysts say the trend reflects sustained growth, not just reaction to X controversies involving Grok AI that are under investigation by California and others. Meta had reported 400 million MAU for Threads in Aug 2025 and 150 million DAU in Oct 2025.

Tesla restarts Dojo 3 as AI5 design stabilizes, outlines AI chip roadmap

January 19, 2026, 11:30 AM EST. Tesla has restarted work on its Dojo 3 AI training supercomputer after the AI5 chip design reached a stable stage, Elon Musk said on X. He noted the AI5 design is in good shape and invited engineers to apply at [email protected], asking for three bullet points on the toughest problems solved. The update sits within a broader AI roadmap: AI4 will deliver self-driving safety well above human levels; AI5 could make cars nearly perfect and boost Optimus; AI6 targets Optimus and data centers; AI7/Dojo3 would pursue space-based AI compute. Musk previously flagged a shift away from multiple chip architectures, noting clustering AI5/AI6 chips could substitute for a Dojo successor. Tesla expects Dojo 3 to become the highest-volume AI chip platform.

Pinterest CEO calls for ending AI's Napster phase, embraces open-source and user well-being

January 19, 2026, 11:24 AM EST. Pinterest CEO says AI has moved from a moonshot to a tool with real-world benefits, and the company uses it to boost user well-being for 600 million users while cutting costs. He argues AI can be democratised beyond Silicon Valley giants, enabling a new wave of entrepreneurship. To unlock real potential, he says access to essential tools must broaden beyond costly proprietary models toward a thriving open-source community in 2026. Creators should be fairly compensated as companies train generative AI, ending the Napster phase of AI and establishing a clear value exchange. Regulation is not the enemy; it protects users and incentivises safe, positive experiences. Pinterest has shown open-source models can match some proprietary performance at roughly 90% lower cost, underscoring the case for broader, cheaper AI adoption.

Pixel 10's Magic Cue to gain Wallet and Tasks integrations, leak suggests

January 19, 2026, 11:12 AM EST. Google's Pixel 10 could expand its Magic Cue with new integrations from Google Wallet and Google Tasks, according to a leak. The tip, shared by Telegram user Kieron Quinn via Android Authority, shows toggles in the Magic Cue settings. Google has not publicly announced the change, and the feature does not appear live yet. If confirmed, Magic Cue would surface items such as boarding passes, tickets and payment cards from Wallet, along with reminders and to-dos from Tasks, whenever contextually relevant. The current integration roster already includes Pixel Screenshots, Gmail, Messages, Keep, Contacts and Calendar. The leak suggests rollout could come soon, but no official timing was given.

Leaked Marathon preorder and March 5, 2026 release date appear real

January 19, 2026, 11:06 AM EST. A leaked trailer for Bungie's Marathon appears real, naming a March 5, 2026 release and setting up preorders for $40. Bungie has begun DMCA takedowns on the clip circulating online, a sign the date isn't an AI hoax. An official announcement and preorder rollout are expected tomorrow. The game has benefited from a renewed marketing push after a delay, including gameplay clips and a favorable vidoc about its class system. A free open beta is planned for late February, a standard tactic to test servers before launch. Marathon will be cross-platform on PS5, PC and Xbox, tying into Bungie's Sony deal. Competitor ARC Raiders' free trial numbers will be watched as a potential predictor of Marathon interest.

Google Gemini app adds 'Answer now' option to skip in-depth thinking

January 19, 2026, 11:04 AM EST. Google's Gemini app is rolling out an "Answer now" button for Pro (Gemini 3 Pro) and Thinking (Gemini 3 Flash) models. The button sits beside the spinning status indicator and is not shown on the Fast model. Tapping confirms that Gemini is skipping in-depth thinking and returns an answer shortly after. In the three-dot overflow menu at the end of responses, Gemini uses the selected model rather than switching to Fast. Google says Answer now replaces the old Skip button, with the feature rolling out to free and paid Gemini accounts on Android, iOS, and the web. The update broadens user control over response speed across platforms.

Atlas moves from research to production as Hyundai, DeepMind tie up

January 19, 2026, 10:58 AM EST. Boston Dynamics' Atlas is now in production, with units already committed to Hyundai factories and Google DeepMind. The CES 2026 showcase featured a 6.2-foot, 198-pound humanoid that can lift 110 pounds, sustain 66 pounds, and rotate through 56 degrees of freedom. It runs on dual battery packs, can swap packs in three minutes, and recharges in 90 minutes, enabling near-continuous operation. Atlas is certified for shared workspaces, with a 360-degree camera that pauses when people approach. A partnership with Google DeepMind embeds Gemini Robotics AI to learn from demonstrations and generalize tasks, while Orbit software lets a single learned skill propagate across a fleet. The result: a productized robot designed for factory floors, not lab demos.

Alibaba-backed Moonshot AI valued at $4.8 billion after funding round as rivals IPO in Hong Kong

January 19, 2026, 10:54 AM EST. BEIJING – Alibaba-backed Moonshot AI is valued at about $4.8 billion in a fresh funding round, up from $4.3 billion in December, according to two people familiar with the deal. The round is seen closing soon amid high demand. The valuation rise follows a rally in rival Chinese AI firms that went public in Hong Kong earlier this year, including Zhipu and MiniMax. Moonshot, builder of the Kimi chatbot, remains silent on IPO plans. Wind Information pegs Zhipu at about $13 billion and MiniMax at $15.2 billion as of Monday. Chinese AI stocks have surged as U.S.-based tools remain restricted in mainland China, and regulators block some cross-border tech ties. IDG, Alibaba and Tencent participated in Moonshot's prior round.

The paradox of premium glass: why we still buy plastic phone cases

January 19, 2026, 10:50 AM EST. At an Apple Store, a new iPhone with Ceramic Shield and grade-5 titanium is quickly sealed in a clear TPU case before power is applied. In 30 seconds, the premium materials are hidden from sight. The piece calls this a collective delusion: we laud glass as a flagship material while buying plastic cases to shield it. The author argues the industry profits from fragile designs by turning glass into a marketing signal and by selling protection ecosystems such as AppleCare+ and others. They cite a reported $7 per unit rise when Apple moved to titanium on the iPhone 15 Pro Max; the price remains a rounding error that supports higher markups. Glass is brittle; Ceramic Shield and Gorilla Glass Armor help, but physics still wins.

Apple warns of zero-click iPhone spyware; reboot and iOS 26 upgrade urged

January 19, 2026, 10:46 AM EST. Apple warns of new spyware targeting iPhone devices via zero-click vulnerabilities. The company says devices on older iOS versions face rising risk and urges upgrading to iOS 26. If users have updated, a device restart is typically required to complete the installation. The advice also appears to be matched by security agencies: France's ANSSI endorses a complete shutdown to purge memory-resident spyware, and the NSA cautions that some spyware can mimic a reboot. The U.S. CISA has issued similar guidance. There is still debate on how many users are affected, with reports ranging from hundreds of millions to lower figures. In any case, experts say there is no guaranteed defense; keep devices updated and consider weekly reboots.

DJI Mini 4K sees 20% price cut at Amazon, boosting value for first-time flyers

January 19, 2026, 10:36 AM EST. Amazon discounts the DJI Mini 4K by 20%, dropping the price from $299 to about $239. The ultra-light drone remains under 249g, easing U.S. recreational registration. It records stabilized 4K video at 30fps with a 3-axis gimbal, a step above the Mini 2 SE's 2.7K ceiling. Beginners can rely on One-tap takeoff, GNSS positioning and Return-to-Home, plus on-screen DJI Fly tutorials and beginner flight limits. QuickShots automate moves like Dronie, Circle and Helix for social clips. Real-world use spans travel, real estate and trail storytelling, with up to roughly 20-28 minutes of flight time in typical conditions. Analysts note DJI commands about 70% of consumer drone share, which supports a broad accessory ecosystem and ongoing support.

Devon Pritchard Makes First Public Appearance as Nintendo of America President and COO at NY Game Awards

January 19, 2026, 10:34 AM EST. Devon Pritchard appeared for the first time in public as Nintendo of America's President and COO during the 15th Annual New York Game Awards. She appeared via a pre-recorded video introduced by former Nintendo head Reggie Fils-Aimé and New York Times columnist Harold Goldberg, to celebrate the show and the nonprofit Playing With Purpose writing programme, which runs workshops in journalism and game narrative writing in New York schools. In the message, Pritchard praised the awards' ten-year-plus mission, encouraged creators to keep pursuing stories, and said players are on an adventure with mentors and rewards for perseverance. She assumed the role after Doug Bowser stepped down at the end of 2025. Her leadership coincides with attention on the upcoming Switch 2, amid price and Game-Key Card concerns.

UBS flags meaningful breakthroughs in quantum computing; pure-play stocks in focus

January 19, 2026, 10:28 AM EST. UBS analysts say a period of meaningful breakthroughs is unfolding in quantum computing, with potential to transform molecular simulation, optimization, AI and cryptography. In a 103-page client report, UBS notes the field remains fragmented and immature but identifies superconducting and trapped-ion qubits as the leading architectures. Alphabet, IBM and Microsoft are advancing hardware and software, while cloud strategies blend modalities across players like Amazon. Pure-play names such as IonQ, D-Wave Quantum and Rigetti Computing remain volatile but have captured investor attention as the industry edges toward practical quantum advantage, possibly in the 2030s. Google/Alphabet is highlighted for breakthroughs in software and error correction with Willow, while the broader ecosystem could spur more stock activity.

About 15,000 Satellites Circle Earth, Altering the Night Sky

January 19, 2026, 10:22 AM EST. More than 15,000 artificial satellites orbit Earth, mostly in Low Earth Orbit (LEO, within about 2,000 km). They enable weather forecasting, GPS navigation and communications, and assist astronomical research. But they also alter the sky. Satellites reflect sunlight, complicating astronomers' observations. Launches and reentry generate pollution; rockets emit black carbon that warms the upper atmosphere. A growing fleet partly offsets cleaner fuels. The typical lifespan in LEO is five to eight years, after which objects burn up, sometimes emitting aerosol and debris that reach Earth. Experts urge action to reduce risks and manage orbital space, balancing the benefits of space technology with the need to protect night skies and planetary safety.

Five AI devices that render smartphones obsolete in 2026

January 19, 2026, 10:14 AM EST. 2026 ushers in ambient AI hardware that moves beyond the smartphone. Screenless interfaces and AR glasses shift interaction toward voice and gesture, while AI rings and lightweight wearables become mainstream. The Acer FreeSense Ring, 2.6mm thick, 8mm wide and 23g, in rose gold or glossy black, is water-resistant to 5 ATM and comes in seven sizes. It houses biometric sensors for heart rate, HRV, SpO2 and sleep, feeding an AI-driven app that turns data into practical wellness guidance. Separately, the industry pushes on-device intelligence, powered by massive NPUs, letting devices reason offline without constant connectivity. Together, these trends create a hands-free, context-aware experience that integrates AI, wearables, and AR into daily life, blurring lines between tech and attire.

IonQ stock outlook: 256-qubit target and 2026 revenue forecast

January 19, 2026, 10:12 AM EST. Quanta stocks attract attention as IonQ leans toward commercialization of quantum computers. The company explains qubits-the basic unit of quantum information that can exist in multiple states-are central to its approach. IonQ posted more than $68 million in revenue through the first three quarters of 2025 and guides up to $110 million for the year. It achieved a 2-qubit gate fidelity of 99.99%, a measure of accuracy and speed that lowers energy use. IonQ expects a 256-qubit system in 2026, up from the Tempo 100-qubit system. The long-term aim is 10,000 to 2 million qubits by 2027-2030. A Korea Institute of Science and Technology deal accelerates commercialization. Analysts at Visible Alpha forecast $189 million in 2026 revenue, but the stock trades with a market cap above $17 billion. Caution advised; keep positions small.

Five years of Nvidia stock: a $1,000 investment would be worth about $14,590 today

January 19, 2026, 10:10 AM EST. Nvidia has dominated the AI infrastructure surge. Over five years, the stock delivered a total return of 1,360%, turning a $1,000 stake into about $14,590. Growth stems from hyperscalers expanding AI capabilities and buying Nvidia GPUs. Revenue is projected at roughly $213.3 billion in fiscal 2026 (year ending late January), up about 63% from the prior year. The shares trade at a forward P/E of around 24, a level some investors view as a reasonable entry point given the growth trajectory. Still, past gains are not a guarantee of future returns. Analysts' consensus and company guidance inform expectations for the next several quarters.

Nvidia says RTX 50-series will ship, despite AI demand-driven supply squeeze

January 19, 2026, 10:08 AM EST. Nvidia says it will continue to ship all GeForce RTX 50-series GPUs and is working with suppliers to maximize memory availability. That stance follows days of confusion after Asus initially claimed the RTX 5070 Ti was discontinued, then walked back the statement. Industry chatter and a surge in AI data-center demand have tightened memory supply, fueling rumors that some 50-series models could be scrapped. At CES 2026, multiple conversations suggested new GPUs would come, but none appeared. Asus later clarified that the RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB are not end-of-life products; supply fluctuations are memory-driven, not a formal discontinuation. Nvidia's message is clear: shipments continue, but customer-facing availability may lag due to constrained memory and supplier constraints.

Ed Zitron warns AI hype may falter as boom-and-bust debate heats up

January 19, 2026, 10:06 AM EST. Ed Zitron has become a bellwether of AI skepticism. The British contrarian behind Where's Your Ed At and the podcast Better Offline argues the generative AI boom rests on shaky foundations-both in what the tech actually delivers (LLMs still miss promised tasks) and in the financial architecture fueling it. He began scrutinizing ChatGPT in 2023, after its launch, insisting there was no clear business model or durable path to systemic change. Zitron divides his critique into two parts: technology efficacy and funding structure. His blunt, data-driven style has made him a cult figure among tech skeptics, with a Las Vegas backdrop and a reputation for calling out hype even as the industry spins toward a possible boom or bust.

Rockstar connected to terminally ill fan for early GTA 6 access

January 19, 2026, 9:56 AM EST. Rockstar Games has reportedly connected with a terminally ill fan seeking an early GTA 6 playthrough ahead of the game's November 19, 2026 launch. Ubisoft developer Anthony Armstrong posted on LinkedIn on behalf of a family member given 6-12 months to live, saying they hoped for a chance to experience the game before passing. A later update claimed Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick helped put the family in touch with Rockstar, and another note said they received 'great news.' The LinkedIn post is now deleted, with NDAs cited as a reason for removal. Rockstar has previously granted early access for fans, including a Red Dead Redemption 2 preview for a terminally ill supporter. Similar gestures have appeared in the industry, such as Gearbox arranging Borderlands 4 access for a fan.

Royal School Armagh says fewer than 10 pupils targeted in AI-generated images, headmaster says

January 19, 2026, 9:34 AM EST. Royal School Armagh's headmaster, Graham Montgomery, said the number of pupils targeted by AI-generated explicit images is in the single figures. In a letter to parents, he said the school has identified all pupils affected and those alleged to be responsible. The PSNI confirmed an investigation is underway. Officials say the images were created with AI and circulated among some students; Montgomery noted initial reports had suggested dozens of girls. He stressed safeguarding and well-being, saying procedures are in place and authorities are involved. The school learned of the issue on 8 January and urged the community to refrain from speculation on social media as local officers engage with families.

AI-harm incidents rise sharply, but data gaps and media coverage complicate the picture

January 19, 2026, 9:32 AM EST. Incidents tied to artificial intelligence surged 50% year over year from 2022 to 2024, and by October 2025 the tally had already surpassed 2024's total, according to the AI Incident Database. The crowd-sourced repository tracks issues ranging from deepfake scams to chatbot-induced delusions. 'AI is already causing real world harm,' says Daniel Atherton, editor at the AI Incident Database, who notes that tracking failures is essential to fixing them. The database consolidates multiple news reports into single entries, a method that can undercount or double-count events and reflects media scrutiny as much as reality. MIT researchers have tested a tool using a language model to classify incidents by type and severity, borrowing disease surveillance concepts to spot trends. Yet coverage remains a partial picture, and current rules miss many harms.

Google's Space-Based AI Plan Faces Growing Debris Risk

January 19, 2026, 9:30 AM EST. Google unveiled Project Suncatcher on Nov. 4, 2025, proposing an 81-satellite constellation in low Earth orbit to harvest sunlight and power AI data centers in space, transmitting data back to Earth rather than heat. Proponents say space solar can power chips with minimal heat in vacuum. Critics, including space scientists, warn about space debris as constellations expand. Debris travels at about 17,500 mph (28,000 km/h) in LEO; even blueberry-sized fragments can cause catastrophic damage. The U.S. Space Force tracks over 40,000 objects larger than a softball, yet that is less than 1% of lethal debris. Recent incidents – three Chinese astronauts delaying a return after a debris hit on Tiangong in 2025, and a 2018 ISS incident – underscore risk amid growing commercial activity such as SpaceX's Starlink.

Strange lights in night sky were SpaceX Starlink satellites, not UFOs

January 19, 2026, 9:22 AM EST. Strange lights in the night sky last night were not UFOs; they were SpaceX Starlink satellites. A satellite train produced a spectacular light show visible nationwide, according to a report from kcentv.com, published January 19, 2026. The outlet noted the event was captured as a bright, moving display across multiple states, underscoring the visibility of Starlink's satellite constellation.

Asus exits smartphone market, pivots to PCs and AI hardware

January 19, 2026, 9:20 AM EST. Asus chairman Jonney Shih confirmed at the special event in Taipei's Nangang Exhibition Center that the brand will not launch new smartphones this year, signaling a full exit from the smartphone market. The company will maintain support for existing devices and services. Future resources will be directed to commercial PCs and AI ventures such as robotics and smart glasses. For 2025, Asus reported revenue of TWD 738.91 billion ($23.4 billion), up 26% from 2024, with the AI server business posting 100% growth. The Zenfone line was pared back, with only two models released in 2025-the ROG Phone 9 FE and Zenfone 12 Ultra-neither performing well. Source: Chinese-language report.

Tesla restarts Dojo 3 work as AI5 stabilizes, targets high-volume AI chips

January 19, 2026, 9:18 AM EST. Tesla says it has restarted work on its Dojo 3 in-house AI training system after the AI5 chip design reached a stable stage, per Elon Musk's post on X. Musk said the AI5 design is 'in good shape' and invited engineers to apply for what he expects will be the world's highest-volume AI chips, outlining three bullet points to [email protected]. The update fits Musk's broader AI-chip roadmap, with AI4 delivering self-driving safety well above humans, AI5 making cars nearly perfect and boosting Optimus, AI6 for Optimus and data centers, and AI7/Dojo3 as space-based AI compute. The note follows prior signals of narrowing Dojo's focus after earlier concerns about resource splitting.

Alabama Digital Expansion Authority reports progress on $400M broadband projects as deadline nears

January 19, 2026, 9:08 AM EST. Montgomery, Ala. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs hosted the Alabama Digital Expansion Authority's quarterly meeting, with updates from 20 internet service providers funded by the Capital Projects Fund and the Alabama Anchor Institution/Middle-Mile programs tied to ARPA dollars. Officials said projects totaling more than $400 million must be completed by the end of this year, with federal substantial completion requirements by Dec. 31, 2026. ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell warned that missing milestones could trigger funding losses or clawbacks and urged ISPs to actively manage schedules and keep ADECA informed to avoid penalties and ensure reimbursement. The programs aim to close Alabama's digital divide by delivering reliable, affordable broadband access statewide.

Ben Horowitz says AI could transform daily life like electricity

January 19, 2026, 9:00 AM EST. Venture investor Ben Horowitz argues that AI could reshape daily life as profoundly as electricity did a century ago. In comments highlighted by Business Insider, he frames AI as moving beyond specialist tasks to pervasive, everyday tools and decisions across work, home and infrastructure. Analysts caution that real-world adoption will hinge on data access, safety, and regulatory guardrails, even as demand from both consumer and enterprise sectors grows. Horowitz's stance reflects a broader tech-industry belief that AI will become a ubiquitous, value-adding layer in daily activities, though timelines and impacts remain uncertain.

Garmin palm gesture lets users return to home screen or lock touchscreen on supported watches

January 19, 2026, 8:54 AM EST. Garmin's palm gesture lets users return to the home screen from most screens on a touchscreen watch by briefly covering the entire face with the palm. Garmin says it also dims the backlight; waking or reactivating the display is done by tapping. The gesture does not apply while recording an activity. It works on watches with a touchscreen lock function, turning it on automatically in some cases; on others, like the Lily 2 Active, there is no lock so the gesture won't work. The trick, little-known and rarely advertised, can save taps during workouts or menu dives.

Burnout with AI coding agents shows limits of production-grade software

January 19, 2026, 8:46 AM EST. An experience with Claude Code, Claude Opus 4.5, Codex and Google's Gemini CLI shows AI coding agents can spin up prototypes fast but struggle with durable production code. The author, a long-time hobbyist who has built tools in BASIC, C and Python, tried dozens of projects since November, including a Katamari Damacy clone called "Christmas Roll-Up." The tools produced flashy demos, UI sketches and games by reusing training-data patterns, but true software engineering-robust architecture, project management, and novel solutions-still requires human judgment, patience and experience. The piece notes the experiments were self-funded and enjoyed as a form of play, not an endorsement. In short, AI agents accelerate prototyping, but cannot replace skilled developers for scalable, maintainable systems.

Oregon lawmakers push regulation of AI chatbots to safeguard children's mental health

January 19, 2026, 8:38 AM EST. Oregon lawmakers are proposing a bill to regulate AI chatbots used by minors, requiring companies such as OpenAI's ChatGPT to monitor chats for signs of self-harm, interrupt in crises and refer users to crisis resources like hotlines. The measure would mandate clear, repeated disclosures that responses are AI-generated and ban sexually explicit content for minors, plus safeguards against engagement tactics designed to keep youths online, such as reward loops or guilt messages. The bill would compel annual reporting to the Oregon Health Authority on crisis referrals and safety protocols, with personal data excluded. The proposal follows similar moves in California, New York and other states, amid debates about the role of state regulation and federal limits on AI oversight.

DJI Drones Remain Restricted as FCC Keeps Import Ban on New Models

January 19, 2026, 8:26 AM EST. FCC maintains an import ban on new foreign-made drones, including DJI; existing stock remains on sale in the U.S. The restriction targets devices that require FCC radio approvals and have not cleared a review. The ban extends to other foreign makers, though DJI dominates headlines. A recent FCC move to exempt drones and components on the DCMA Blue UAS list could ease some future supply. The Commerce Department had considered a separate ban, but that plan was shelved for now. In short, consumers can still buy and fly current models, but future DJI drones and others face import hurdles in the United States.

Space Force ends Resilient GPS initiative, shelving smaller-satellite plan

January 19, 2026, 8:24 AM EST. WASHINGTON – The U.S. Space Force has ended the exploratory R-GPS program, shelving plans for smaller, lower-cost navigation satellites intended to diversify the GPS network. Initiated in 2024, R-GPS funded three industry teams to develop concepts and early prototypes for alternative navigation satellites. The Space Force said it will not move to deployments or on-orbit demonstrations, and Phase 1 funding was not carried into the FY 2026 budget due to higher-priority needs. Astranis, L3Harris Technologies and Sierra Space were selected to explore commercial-based designs to boost GPS resilience through proliferation and disaggregation. The decision ends the initial study phase, though lawmakers have urged studies of commercial and backup positioning options.

Meta Platforms: The Most Misunderstood AI Stock?

January 19, 2026, 8:22 AM EST. Meta Platforms is stepping up its AI investment while remaining a social-media company. The group has built in-house chips and data centers to run its AI workloads and created the Llama language model for external use. It now targets roughly $70-72 billion in 2025 capital expenditure, with AI expansion expected to lift spend again in 2026. The plan aims to keep users on Facebook and Instagram longer, boosting ad revenue and sharpening advertiser tools through AI. Meta's AI work could unlock new revenue streams over time, even as it bets on engagement rather than being a pure cloud or chip maker.

Relief AI backs Olympic hopeful Lochner, deploys naia for mental preparation ahead of Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Games

January 19, 2026, 8:18 AM EST. Relief AI reports sponsorship of World Cup champion Johannes 'Hansi' Lochner and adoption of its naia platform for elite mental-performance training ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milano-Cortina. Relief AI's naia is described as an AI-assisted early assessment tool that flags signs of stress and burnout, emphasizing prevention, privacy and compliance. Lochner joins a growing roster of high performers using naia to sharpen mental resilience, focus and decision-making under pressure. The partnership highlights a trend of athletes integrating AI coaching into routine training, enabling around-the-clock insights rather than fixed sessions. Lochner, a leading bobsleigh pilot with multiple World Cup victories, says the tool provides precise analysis of his stressors and can be accessed anytime to inform preparation and competition.

NASA executes rare medical evacuation from the International Space Station

January 19, 2026, 8:12 AM EST. NASA's SpaceX Crew-11 mission returned to Earth after 167 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS), completing hundreds of hours of research. The early return was prompted by a medical concern affecting one crew member; officials did not disclose details to protect privacy. The four-person crew-Zena Cardman, Mike Fincke, Kimiya Yui, and Oleg Platonov-landed in the Pacific off California after the SpaceX Dragon capsule touched down at 12:41 a.m. PST. Recovery teams secured the capsule and transported the crew. NASA cited international cooperation with SpaceX, JAXA, and Roscosmos. The mission logged more than 140 science experiments and marked 25 years of continuous human presence on the ISS. Crew-11 members were then taken to a local hospital for medical evaluation.

Relief AI backs bobsled champion Lochner, integrates naia for Olympic mental training ahead of Milano-Cortina 2026

January 19, 2026, 7:58 AM EST. Relief AI Inc. announced sponsorship of World Cup champion Johannes Lochner and the adoption of its naia platform as a core component of his mental training ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina. naia is an AI-assisted early assessment tool that identifies indicators of workplace stress, anxiety, and burnout, emphasizing prevention, privacy, and compliance. The platform guides users to appropriate next steps and connects them with human support when needed. Lochner, a leading German bobsleigh pilot, joins a growing group of high performers using naia to sharpen mental resilience, emotional regulation, and decision-making under pressure. He says the system provides real-time analysis and on-demand coaching, improving readiness between events.

Apple iPhone 18 display leak hints at dramatic new look for some models

January 19, 2026, 7:48 AM EST. Apple's next iPhones are expected in September, says a leak from Digital Chat Station on Weibo. Four models are named: iPhone 18, iPhone Air second generation, iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Screens would run at 6.27 inches (iPhone 18 and Pro), 6.55 inches (Air), and 6.86 inches (Pro Max) with a 120Hz refresh rate. The sizes and specs align with current models, but a reported shift could see a new under-display area replacing the traditional Dynamic Island on some variants. Rumors on the dynamic island's change are mixed: a smaller pill shape, or a hole-punch cutout offset to the top-left. If accurate, the Pro line may pave the way for an under-display camera. Apple's schedule remains fluid, with a spring 2027 window for the iPhone 18 and 18e possible.

China blocks Nvidia H200 shipments as suppliers pause output

January 19, 2026, 7:36 AM EST. Suppliers paused production of components for Nvidia's H200 after Chinese customs blocked shipments, forcing output halts rather than building inventory. The disruption underscores tighter controls on inbound AI hardware and adds uncertainty to Nvidia's China-facing business, already shaped by U.S. export rules and product redesigns. Nvidia says it remains compliant, but access to the Chinese market is narrowing. CEO Jensen Huang used CES 2026 to reiterate that the Vera Rubin (R100) architecture remains on track for a 2026 launch. Nvidia is also pushing its AI Enterprise software suite, including Inference Microservices, to generate recurring revenue and lessen reliance on constant hardware upgrades.

Valve tweaks AI disclosure policy to flag generative AI content in games

January 19, 2026, 7:34 AM EST. Valve has amended its developer disclosure policy on AI, clarifying that while AI powered tools used for efficiency gains are not the policy's focus, studios must reveal if generative AI is used to create in-game content that ships with the title. Spotted by GameDiscoverCo, the revision draws a line between integrated AI tools and actual content generation-such as artwork, sound, narrative design or localisation-that players may encounter. Developers answer Yes or No to whether the game uses generative AI to produce content for the game, its store page, or marketing assets. The update is described as a thoughtful middle ground that separates efficiency tools from content creation. Valve's stance aligns with Steam's growing base, and contrasts with earlier criticism from Tim Sweeney.

Generational expands UK EV battery health testing with Motorpoint rollout

January 19, 2026, 7:32 AM EST. Motorpoint has expanded its EV operations after a successful trial of Generational's technology. Testing uses a compact device connected to the vehicle's OBD port to quickly assess the state of health (SoH) of the battery. Across more than 1,500 used BEVs and plug-in hybrids, the dataset shows an average battery health of 96.6%. Notably, 97% of stock posted SoH above 90%, and 36% exceeded 99%. Vehicles with verified battery health data sold faster-four days sooner than untested BEVs. Going forward, Motorpoint will retail only EVs rated as very good or higher for battery health. The results are delivered via a customer-facing certificate, reinforcing transparency and buyer confidence.

Labour urged to relax UK EV targets amid looming petrol and diesel ban

January 19, 2026, 7:26 AM EST. UK Labour faces calls to ease its electric vehicle targets as a commission suggests recalibrating the ZEV mandate to attract investment in gigafactories and batteries. The Policy Commission on Gigafactories argues 2030 targets should be relaxed to about 50-60% non-polluting car sales, rather than 80%, with 100% by 2035 kept intact. Former Labour minister Lord John Hutton said the changes would not derail the overall path and urged data-driven regulation. The report comes as policymakers consider a new per-mile charge for EVs from 2028-3p per mile, with hybrids charged too; drivers would pay in advance based on expected mileage, with credits if they drive less. Officials emphasise the 2035 zero-emission commitment remains, providing industry certainty while boosting the domestic battery supply chain.

Trump AI-chip tariff pause and Taiwan pact lift semiconductors; Nvidia, AMD, Intel in focus

January 19, 2026, 7:14 AM EST. New York, Jan 18, 2026 – U.S. chip stocks finished the week higher as the Philadelphia SE Semiconductor Index rose about 1% on Friday and the market looked toward a long weekend. Traders weighed new restrictions on advanced AI chips and a U.S.-Taiwan pact aimed at boosting domestic chip manufacturing. The tariff package, pegged at 25% on select AI chips such as Nvidia's H200 and AMD's MI325X, could expand in scope as talks proceed. A Taiwan deal promises tariff relief for chip-related exports and signals heavy investment into U.S. production, lifting suppliers like ASML, Lam Research and Applied Materials. Nvidia edged higher; Intel slipped. AMD finished around $231.83; Nvidia around $186.23. Analysts noted ongoing AI data-center demand despite policy uncertainty.

Tesla advances AI chip cadence with AI5 and AI6, Samsung fabrication hints at broader autonomy push

January 19, 2026, 7:06 AM EST. Tesla says the AI5 design is nearing completion and has begun work on AI6, targeting roughly nine-month cycles for future generations including AI7 and AI8. The AI5 would be a meaningful upgrade from the current AI4 hardware, with Elon Musk citing potential gains up to 50x, though production timelines remain uncertain. Large-scale manufacturing is unlikely before 2027, with 2026 deployments expected to be limited. Bloomberg reported that Tesla plans to use Samsung to fabricate AI6 under a deal valued at about $16.5 billion, while Tesla would retain control of the architecture and software integration. As of January 16, 2026, Tesla's market cap hovered around $1.37 trillion despite slower auto-sales growth. Investors question whether the AI and autonomy push can yield a scalable platform, reducing reliance on third-party AI providers like Nvidia.

China's EV battery market pivots to LFP, capturing 81% of 2025 capacity

January 19, 2026, 6:58 AM EST. China's LFP battery standard has overtaken NMC in the 2025 market. LFP cells total 625.3 GWh, 81.2% of EV batteries, up 52.9% from 2024. NMC volumes reach 144.1 GWh, 18.7% of the market, up just 3.7%. Data from CN EV Post using CABIA shows monthly production growth in 2025, though February was weakest due to the Chinese New Year; December output neared 100 GWh. LFP dominance persists in December at 81.3% (79.8 GWh); NMC 18.6% (18.2 GWh). CATL remains leader with 333.57 GWh and 43.4% share, down slightly from 2024; BYD is second with 165.77 GWh and 21.6%. Other manufacturers hold single-digit shares.

If Google helps Apple beat Google, does everyone lose? Privacy and strategy in Siri's future

January 19, 2026, 6:56 AM EST. Rumors that Apple will power Siri with Google Gemini sparked a debate about control, privacy and strategy. A leak and subsequent reporting suggested Apple would lean on Google's AI to refresh Siri, potentially delivering more capable features while preserving its privacy pledge. Apple says Siri will run on Apple devices and Private Cloud Compute, a framework meant to keep data away from Google's servers. Google would tune Gemini to Apple's specs, with Apple engineers free to modify. Critics warn the move could be a concession to a rival and raise questions about user data. Apple has long preferred in-house development or small acquisitions to maintain control, but the line between independence and partnership remains unclear after WWDC 2024 demos and related assurances.

Hawaii lawmakers warn of child safety risks with AI chatbots

January 19, 2026, 6:24 AM EST. State lawmakers in Hawaii heard fresh warnings about the risks AI chatbots pose to minors. A parent told Senator Jarrett Keohokalole about her 12-year-old daughter's role-play with a chatbot portraying an anime character, described as "aggressive grooming." Keohokalole noted more youths interact with conversations that mimic relationships, often with limited parental safeguards. Educators explained these tools run on large language models that predict text, and some firms fine-tune them to be "companions" designed to evoke empathy and connection. Critics said guardrails like content filters and self-reported age checks are imperfect; open-source models can lack safety controls. DOE officials warned that digital predators and AI feedback loops can affect adolescents, with incidents like a Character.AI case on a state device.

AI's five-layer ecosystem: Nvidia, Constellation and other growth players

January 19, 2026, 6:02 AM EST. NVIDIA sits at the core of the AI boom, with CEO Jensen Huang describing the global ecosystem as a five-layer cake-energy, chips, cloud, AI models, and applications. The piece surveys five AI-linked growth stocks across those layers. Constellation Energy aims to expand its nuclear fleet to power AI data centers, reporting 3Q2025 revenue of $6.6 billion (+0.3% YoY) and stronger cash flow for 9M2025 as outages fell. NVIDIA has evolved from gaming GPUs to a dominant networking and CUDA-backed platform that underpins generative AI, posting 3QFY2026 revenue of $57 billion and net income up more than 65%. The article also highlights Azure from Microsoft as a leading cloud infrastructure player, competing with AWS and Google Cloud in the AI stack.

Cathie Wood: Tesla no longer just a car company as robotaxi bets gather steam

January 19, 2026, 5:56 AM EST. Cathie Wood, Ark Invest's CEO and CIO, said on CNBC's Squawk Box that Tesla is no longer just an auto company. With the EV sales environment under pressure, she said investor focus is increasingly turning to the company's broader ambitions, including robotaxis. Wood's comments reflect Ark Invest's view that Tesla functions as a software-enabled mobility platform, not only a carmaker. A Tesla spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment. The remarks come as investors weigh demand trends against potential upside from autonomous mobility.

Microsoft issues emergency fix for Windows 11 shutdown bug tied to January 2026 security update

January 19, 2026, 5:48 AM EST. Microsoft released an emergency, out-of-band update to fix two problems introduced by its January 2026 security patch. Some Windows 11 devices could only restart when shutting down or entering hibernate, a bug tied to Secure Launch. The same update also restores remote logins for Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices, where credential prompts had been failing. Microsoft notes lingering issues on some systems, including blank screens and Outlook Classic crashes. The company previously issued an October emergency fix for the Windows Recovery Environment. For users delaying Windows 11, Microsoft is offering continued support through Extended Security Updates for Windows 10.

DJI Osmo Mobile 6 price hits $89 at Amazon

January 19, 2026, 5:28 AM EST. Amazon has trimmed the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 gimbal to $89, an 18% cut from the recent $109 price. The move places a trusted stabilizer under $100, appealing to creators, travelers and mobile filmmakers seeking smoother video. In testing, the 3-axis stabilization delivers reliable stabilization across walking, panning and fast motion, with DJI's ActiveTrack 6.0 keeping subjects centered. A built-in ~215 mm extension rod adds reach for group shots and transitions, while the foldable frame at about 309 g remains light. The side wheel controls zoom and focus, the redesigned status panel speeds mode changes, and Quick Launch with the Mimo app shortens setup. Battery life runs around six hours; the package suits solo shooters shooting daylong clips.

Seven hidden features that make Apple Messages essential

January 19, 2026, 4:44 AM EST. Apple's Messages app extends beyond text, letting iPhone users share items like custom stickers and even send money with Apple Cash. The article shows how to access tools via the plus (+) button, then turn photos from Photos into stickers, with a note that Live Photos won't work. It also highlights built-in Polls for group decisions and points out that the feature set grows as third-party apps (like Starbucks) are added. The piece frames Messages as a multifunctional hub for family chats and group planning, not just a basic texting tool.

DJI pushes back at US drone blacklist, says current users unaffected

January 19, 2026, 4:12 AM EST. DJI challenged the US move to add foreign-made drones to the FCC's Covered List, saying the decision lacks transparency and does not target the company alone. A spokesperson told DroneDJ there is no disclosed evidence or analysis behind the determination, and that concerns about data security have not been backed by concrete proof. DJI framed the action as protectionist and said its products are among the safest on the market, backed by audits and government reviews. The Chinese foreign ministry criticized the move, urging a fair environment for Chinese firms. The FCC's action does not ground drones already flying in the US, nor affect current owners, retailers selling pre-approved models, or public safety operations. Models mentioned include the Mini 3, Mini 4 Pro, Flip, and Avata 2 FPV. If you already own a DJI drone, nothing changes today.

AI coding requires developers to become better managers

January 19, 2026, 4:10 AM EST. Mollick's post On-boarding your AI intern argues you must know where the AI intern is useful, where it's annoying, and where you should not delegate because the error cost is too high-that is, you need judgment, i.e., expertise. Honeycomb CTO Charity Majors contrasts code authorship and code ownership: AI makes authorship cheap, but ownership-debugging and maintaining production code-is expensive. Majors warns that over-reliance on AI while you supervise decays your own expertise rapidly. Addy Osmani notes that writing a good spec demands deep technical understanding. The takeaway: a hybrid approach-combining AI with hands-on coding and clear responsibilities-may be the pragmatic path for the developer-as-manager model.

Exclusive: Xbox Cloud Gaming to add ad-supported access this year

January 19, 2026, 4:08 AM EST. Microsoft is preparing an ad-supported tier for Xbox Cloud Gaming later this year. People familiar with the plan told Reuters that ads would run for players who own games digitally but do not subscribe to Game Pass. A recent on-screen message reading '1 hour of ad-supported play time per session' was described by officials as an error. The proposal would allow session-based ads to appear separately from subscriptions, broadening access to cloud gaming without a full membership. The move comes as cloud services gain momentum and hardware costs rise amid AI-driven demand. If confirmed, the policy would mark a major shift in how Microsoft monetizes its streaming library and competes in the broader platform ecosystem.

Pearson: AI productivity hinges on learning; potential US gains up to $6.6 trillion by 2034

January 19, 2026, 3:44 AM EST. New Pearson research presented at the World Economic Forum argues that AI alone won't lift productivity. A 'learning gap' blocks gains, and pairing AI with ongoing skilling could boost the US economy by $4.8 trillion to $6.6 trillion by 2034-around 15% of current GDP at the low end. Pearson's report outlines a four-part DEEP Learning Framework to align tech deployment with skill building: Diagnose, Embed, Evaluate, and Prioritize learning as a core investment. CEO Omar Abbosh says leaders must address workers' skills to realize ROI and define measurable outcomes. The study emphasizes training alongside automation, not wholesale replacement, and frames education as essential to AI rollout for sustained gains.

Policymakers weigh AI as first-line gatekeeper for mental health care

January 19, 2026, 3:36 AM EST. Policymakers are weighing whether generative AI and large language models (LLMs) should serve as the requisite first line of mental health gatekeeping and initial therapy. The column flags significant policy and legal implications, from liability and safeguards to professional standards. It notes widespread use of LLMs for mental health guidance, often available 24/7 at low cost, and warns of risks when advice goes off the rails or fosters delusional thinking. The piece cites public controversy, including a high-profile OpenAI lawsuit and media scrutiny, and argues that any move toward mandated AI intervention must pair broad access with robust safeguards and clinical oversight. The analysis emphasizes cautious progress, balancing potential benefits with serious downsides.

Tesla Struggles as Global EV Market Expands in 2025

January 19, 2026, 3:14 AM EST. Tesla's sales declined for a second straight year in 2025, even as global electric-vehicle demand rose 20% to 20.7 million units. The year saw China dominate with 12.9 million EVs, up 17%, and Europe posting 4.3 million, up 33%. North America fell 4% to 1.8 million amid the expiration of the U.S. federal EV tax credit, with Mexico up 29% helping offset weakness in the U.S. and Canada. The Rest of World grew 48%. Benchmark Mineral Intelligence notes the market resilience, while BYD Co overtook Tesla for the EV crown in 2025 and led European sales, aided by a milestone of over 1 million vehicles. In the U.S., winners may include Volvo, VW, and GM, while Tesla, Mercedes, Genesis and Kia were labeled as 2025 losers by InsideEVs. Europe's growth may slow in 2026, the report suggests.

Epic Games Store growth outpaces spending; parallels drawn with Xbox PC

January 19, 2026, 3:06 AM EST. Epic Games Store grew from 108 million users in 2019 to 295 million in 2024, but third-party revenue rose just 1.6% over the period, according to a post on Reddit. The increase reflects a strategy of free game giveaways that boosted sign-ups while keeping many users from actually purchasing titles. Critics say the numbers count accounts, not active spending, and point to a late-stage feature set: reviews added in 2022, gifting in 2025, and messaging only after earlier removal. The debate feeds into questions about Xbox PC and others vying with Steam, with comparisons centering on whether either platform can convert large audiences into recurring buyers rather than free-to-claim traffic. Analysts caution context and attribution given the source.

Tesla shifts to FSD subscription as California advertising ruling looms

January 19, 2026, 2:42 AM EST. Tesla on Thursday said it will drop upfront sales of Full Self-Driving and move to a subscription model on February 14. The timing overlaps with a California court ruling that could curb how the company markets autonomy, prompting questions about strategy. The court found the FSD and Autopilot labels misleading regarding SAE levels of automation but did not order a halt on using the FSD name. A subscription model would not automatically alter branding or claims; the marketing remains under a legal cloud. The petition for reconsideration is due January 15. Whether the move is a response to the ruling is unclear; the company has argued the changes reflect payment structure, not marketing language.

CES 2026: ASUS ROG and Xreal unveil R1 Gaming Glasses with 171-inch virtual screen

January 19, 2026, 2:28 AM EST. At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) and Xreal unveiled the ROG Xreal R1 Gaming Glasses, a lightweight wearable with dual 0.55-inch Sony micro-OLED panels running at 1920×1080 and 240 Hz. The setup projects a virtual 171-inch screen four meters away, delivering a cinema-style display without full VR immersion. Weighed about 91 g, the glasses deliver about 2 ms motion-to-photon latency and a 57-degree field of view, with an "Anchor Mode" that holds the image fixed or lets it follow the user's gaze. The product is designed for plug-and-play with PCs, consoles, and the ROG Ally via HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, or USB-C, using the optional ROG Control Dock. It aims to offer a big-screen experience on the go, outside traditional VR headsets.

US extends Tesla self-driving probe by five weeks

January 19, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. U.S. regulators granted Tesla a five-week extension to respond to allegations that its cars violated traffic laws while using Full Self-Driving (FSD). The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened the investigation in October after receiving dozens of reports of red lights and wrong-way driving, covering about 2.9 million vehicles equipped with FSD. The agency says 62 complaints have now been identified, up from 58 in October. Tesla has argued it repeatedly warns drivers to stay ready to intervene; regulators say many drivers reported no warning before erratic behavior. The company's FSD remains Level 2, requiring driver attention, while a more capable version is in testing. Tesla stock traded around $439 midday.

Europe reinforces satellite internet push with new OneWeb order

January 19, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. Europe has signed a new order with OneWeb to strengthen its satellite internet ambitions. The deal aims to expand coverage across member states, improving rural connectivity and resilience while supporting digital sovereignty. Officials described the move as part of a broader European strategy to diversify critical communications infrastructure beyond terrestrial networks. OneWeb plans to add satellites and ground stations, linking Euro-wide services to secure, compliant links. The agreement comes as governments boost funding for space-based platforms and deepen cooperation with space agencies and industry partners. Analysts say the arrangement could speed rollout and bring operational benefits in coming years.

Thiel Sells Nvidia and Tesla, Bets on Microsoft as AI Shift Takes Hold

January 19, 2026, 2:18 AM EST. Peter Thiel's Thiel Macro closed Q3 by exiting Nvidia entirely and trimming its Tesla stake, while opening a new position in Microsoft. The moves come as Thiel and peers shift away from top AI names toward longtime software staples. Nvidia left the portfolio after leading AI GPU demand; its P/E ratio was about 46.4, a high valuation that can invite profit-taking. Tesla's stake was cut further, though it remains the largest holding, as long-run robotaxi prospects remain years away. Microsoft is seen as safer and more diversified, monetizing AI through Copilot and subscription products. The shift signals a move from hype-driven bets to entrenched software platforms in the AI era.

Photos show SpaceX Falcon 9 post-sunset launch from Cape Canaveral

January 19, 2026, 2:08 AM EST. SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 6:31 p.m. local time Sunday, delivering a post-sunset ascent. The flight came hours after a cold front swept across the Cape, with the National Weather Service recording a 61 mph wind gust at pad 39B near NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The gusty conditions tested launch operations but did not halt the mission. Florida Today's Rick Neale covered the event, noting the late-day light and the rocket's plume visible over the coast. The Cape Canaveral launch cadence continues into 2026, with more missions planned from the Florida spaceport.

Mandiant releases NTLMv1 rainbow tables, accelerating admin password attacks

January 19, 2026, 1:34 AM EST. Mandiant, now part of Google Cloud, has publicly released a dataset of Net-NTLMv1 rainbow tables, highlighting the security risks of legacy authentication. The release reinforces calls for organizations to migrate away from Net-NTLMv1, a deprecated protocol considered cryptographically broken since 1999 and widely deemed insecure for years. Despite warnings, consultants say Net-NTLMv1 remains present in many enterprises, underscoring organizational inertia. The tables dramatically lower the bar for credential recovery: attackers can potentially recover authentication keys in under 12 hours using consumer-grade hardware under $600, turning a theoretical vulnerability into a practical attack vector. The release follows known-plaintext attack logic on Net-NTLMv1 hashes lacking Extended Session Security (ESS) and can lead to domain-privilege compromises, including DCSync attacks against Active Directory.

Credential-stealing Chrome extensions target enterprise HR platforms, researchers say

January 19, 2026, 1:18 AM EST. Cybersecurity firm Socket found malicious Chrome extensions masquerading as productivity and security tools for enterprise HR/ERP platforms. The extensions target Workday, NetSuite and SAP SuccessFactors, collectively installed more than 2,300 times. They use three attack types: cookie exfiltration (theft of login cookies to remote servers), DOM manipulation (altering pages to block security administration), and bidirectional cookie injection (session hijacking). The group shows coordinated behavior: same infrastructure, code patterns and API endpoints across five extensions published under databycloud1104 (four) and Software Access (one). These tools promised enterprise-grade features-"premium tools," dashboards, or restricted admin access-without disclosing cookie extraction or credential collection in privacy policies. Even at 2,300 users, the risk is credential theft that could enable ransomware or data breaches.

Bosch's Track Performance Assist uses AI to coach drivers and trim lap times

January 19, 2026, 1:04 AM EST. Bosch is advancing Track Performance Assist (TPA), an AI-powered coaching tool that taps its safety systems, sensors, navigation, cloud computing and applied mathematics. The aim: help drivers reach the fastest possible lap. The system builds an ideal trajectory-the absolute racing line-by analysing track data, vehicle specifics and billions of simulated lines, then displays how far a driver strays from that line. It also creates a maximum velocity profile to benchmark current telemetry against a best-in-class lap for the same car. In real time, TPA can adjust brake and throttle to keep you on pace. Bosch calls this its most compelling USP. A prototype was shown to journalists, offering a glimpse of how AI-driven coaching could reshape track performance.

Avocados From Mexico pivots to AI-driven Super Bowl stunt with Prediction Pit

January 19, 2026, 12:42 AM EST. Avocados From Mexico is returning to the Super Bowl with a digital play rather than a linear TV spot. The campaign centers on the Prediction Pit, an AI-driven tool that offers real-time football predictions and guacamole recipes, featuring Rob Riggle as an AI avatar. The predictive system can shift results through the week based on injuries or weather. The brand did not disclose costs, noting that a proper Super Bowl buy runs around $8 million and that inventory is sold out. It follows 2024's GuacAImole and 2025's Guacline as part of ongoing AI-led activations. Executives emphasize guardrails to prevent harmful content and protect Riggle's likeness, acknowledging AI risks like hallucinations and the uncanny valley, while aiming for second screen engagement.

Why I stopped buying smartwatches as AI-powered phones take over

January 19, 2026, 12:36 AM EST. An early adopter and tech geek explains why they stopped buying smartwatches. The piece recalls Samsung Gear (2013) and Apple Watch (2015), noting the appeal of data, aesthetics and the luxury of keeping a phone in the pocket. Yet those perks feel superficial as AI-enabled devices on smartphones now handle notifications with summaries from Google Gemini, Apple Intelligence and Samsung Galaxy AI. The author says a wrist device isn't a good communication tool: dictation on watch screens feels awkward, and tiny displays force you to pull out your phone for longer replies. The takeaway: in a phone-first workflow, there's little reason to wear a watch.

Micron says AI-driven memory crunch is unprecedented and could last beyond this year

January 19, 2026, 12:34 AM EST. Micron Technology says the global memory-chip shortage has accelerated and will persist as demand for high-end memory for AI infrastructure climbs. Executives call the shortage unprecedented, with high-bandwidth memory straining supply for phones and PCs while Nvidia-driven AI workloads lift demand. Micron plans to focus on enterprise customers and will end its consumer Crucial line as it expands production internationally. The company agreed to pay about $1.8 billion for a Taiwan site to speed output, aiming for meaningful DRAM production in the second half of 2027. The AI boom has boosted profits for Micron and peers, and gear shifts could tighten PC and smartphone supply through 2026.

The race to put a doctor on your wrist

January 19, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. Smartwatches are pivoting from activity tracking to health care. Fitbit kicked off a wave of health sensing, selling tens of millions of devices that tracked steps, calories, sleep and heart rate. Apple followed, adding ECG in 2018 and expanding wellness features. Samsung and Google pressed into health after rebranding and acquisitions, with the Pixel Watch offering blood oxygen readings. Apple has nudged deeper into healthcare with sleep apnea notifications and hypertension alerts, even as it says the device is not a medical device. The next frontier is diabetes management; no smartwatch yet measures blood sugar. Noninvasive options include a breath monitor from PreEvnt called Isaac, now in clinical trials. Privacy concerns linger as protections like HIPAA don't fully cover wearables.

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