Technology News 22.01.2026

Samsung confirms Galaxy Watch Do Not Disturb bug after One UI 8; fix coming

January 22, 2026, 10:36 AM EST. Samsung has confirmed that Do Not Disturb on Galaxy Watches is broken after the One UI 8 update. The problem appears when DND is turned on from the watch's quick panel, and it turns off after a few seconds. It affects models from Galaxy Watch 4 to Galaxy Watch 8. Samsung says a sync failure between the watch and connected phone is to blame. As a workaround, users can enable DND via the watch's full Settings menu (Settings > Notifications > Do Not Disturb) or turn on DND from the connected phone's Quick Settings to sync properly. Samsung is developing a software update; keep the Galaxy Wearable app up to date.

Google DeepMind hires Hume AI CEO and engineers in licensing deal

January 22, 2026, 10:22 AM EST. WIRED reports Google DeepMind is hiring Hume AI CEO Alan Cowen and about seven engineers under a licensing deal. Financial terms are confidential; Hume AI will continue supplying its voice-emotion technology to other frontier AI labs. The arrangement signals that voice could become a primary AI interface, with emotion-detection in user speech guiding responses. Hume AI projects roughly $100 million in revenue for 2026 as it helps labs tune models for more capable voice helpers. Cowen, who holds a PhD in psychology, and the recruits will assist DeepMind in integrating voice and emotional intelligence into its frontier models, according to people familiar with the matter. The deal could sharpen Google's edge against OpenAI's ChatGPT and aligns with Gemini-powered Siri developments.

Physical cards endure as digital wallets expand, Thales executive says

January 22, 2026, 10:16 AM EST. Even as digital wallets expand, a Thales study shows physical cards remain central to everyday spending. Gustavo Menezes, senior VP of payments North America at Thales, notes that 53% of consumers prefer contactless payments in stores, and within that group, physical cards still lead. He says the preference reflects human behavior of tapping to pay, not a fault of technology. New activation methods let users activate cards by tapping them to their phones, seen as more secure and convenient. Beyond utility, the card functions as a personal badge and status symbol, influencing acquisition of premium cards where design and finish matter. Despite wallet innovation, cards remain the default payment credential for over 80% in-store in the U.S., offering trust and familiarity-and a dependable fallback for mobile wallet users. Issuers must focus on the full experience.

AI patients train medical students in UK hospitals

January 22, 2026, 10:02 AM EST. Medical students in Swindon are practicing conversations with AI-driven patients to improve communication and diagnosis. Dr Chris Jacobs at Merchiston Surgery uses a system called SimFlow to let students interact with life-like avatars at Great Western Hospital and through the University of Bristol and the University of Bath. The AI patients respond with realistic faces and voices, enabling repeated practice at home and in classrooms instead of relying only on actors. Jacobs says better communication can lead to more accurate information and happier patients, and may save the NHS money by reducing misdiagnoses. The program emphasizes evidence-based use of technology and ongoing evaluation of outcomes before wider adoption.

Nvidia could reach a $10 trillion market cap by 2030 as AI infrastructure expands

January 22, 2026, 9:56 AM EST. Nvidia has moved from a gaming-focused GPU maker to a full-stack platform spanning chips, software and networking gear. The company's GPUs power the current AI race, with hyperscalers like AWS, Azure and Google Cloud equipping data centers to train models. Partnerships with Anthropic, Groq, Palantir, Nokia and others deepen Nvidia's role along the AI value chain. Wall Street watchers highlight the shift from model training to inference, underscored by a $20 billion licensing deal with Groq and a collaboration with Intel on custom CPUs using Nvidia's NVLink. From $345 billion to about $4.5 trillion in market value in recent years, the story now centers on infrastructure spending that could push Nvidia toward a $10 trillion market cap by 2030.

Motorola smartwatch lineup struggles to find identity amid design inconsistencies

January 22, 2026, 9:50 AM EST. Motorola's smartwatch strategy remains tangled. After multiple releases and a reboot of the Moto 360, the company shows little sign of a clear identity. The latest Moto Watch looks clean and analog-like, with a rotating crown, Gorilla Glass 3, and IP68. Yet it risks being seen as a pretty face rather than a true competitor next to the Pixel Watch, Galaxy Watch, or Pebble Round 2. The lineup lacks continuity: the Moto Watch Fit was a square, Apple Watch clone, while other models felt like offshoots from different brands. Motorola abandoned its slot-based bands for universal 22mm options, then reverted. If it's not Wear OS, the lineup may struggle to gain traction.

Intel Emerges as Hidden Winner in Nvidia AI Chip Boom at TSMC

January 22, 2026, 9:46 AM EST. NVIDIA's AI-chip surge reshapes TSMC's customer mix, with NVIDIA reportedly dethroning Apple as TSMC's largest buyer. The shift threatens Apple's privileged access to manufacturing capacity and may lift prices as demand for advanced nodes climbs. In this environment, Intel could benefit by courting capacity-starved customers seeking alternatives to TSMC. Analysts have raised Intel stock on the possibility that Apple could adopt an Intel 18A-based process for some M-series chips, and explore a 14A path for future iPhone silicon. If Apple secures a major foundry relationship with Intel, the company's foundry business could gain decisively amid the AI boom.

Samsung TV Plus surpasses 100 million monthly active users, expands to 30 countries

January 22, 2026, 9:36 AM EST. Samsung TV Plus has surpassed 100 million monthly active users in 2026, a milestone that accompanies a 25% rise in viewing hours last year. The free service now offers more than 4,300 channels and is available in 30 countries across Samsung TVs, Galaxy phones, XR headsets, Galaxy Tabs, Smart Monitors and Family Hub devices. Retention is strong: about 92% of viewers continue watching after three months. The platform has staged live events and interactivity, including a Jonas Brothers concert where 13% of viewers voted. A CES 2026 lineup adds new TV series on Micro LED, Neo QLED, OLED, The Frame and The Frame Pro. Salek Brodsky, Senior VP & Head of Global Samsung TV Plus, called the MAU milestone extraordinary and said it reflects viewer trust. Source: Samsung Newsroom.

U.S. study to probe cellphone radiation health risks under HHS review

January 22, 2026, 9:28 AM EST. WASHINGTON – The Department of Health and Human Services is launching a study to determine whether electromagnetic radiation from cellphones could affect Americans' health. HHS says the work will identify knowledge gaps, including on new technologies, to ensure safety and efficacy, a move linked to a MAHA Commission strategy released last year. A 2018 NIH study found clear evidence that high exposure to radiofrequency radiation was linked to cancer in male rats, though animal exposure differed from typical human use. The study does not reassess RF used for Wi-Fi or 5G. The CTIA industry group says there is no credible evidence of harm, while the WHO and FCC note current limits and evidence do not prove health risks.

Samsung TV Plus hits 100 million monthly active users as 2026 expansion accelerates

January 22, 2026, 9:26 AM EST. Samsung TV Plus posted a milestone in 2026, surpassing 100 million monthly active users worldwide. The free service logged a 25% rise in viewing hours last year, signaling growing audience engagement. Viewership stability remains strong, with about 92% of viewers continuing to watch after three months, making it a reliable place for advertisers. The platform, available in 30 countries across Samsung TVs, Galaxy devices, XR headsets, tablets, Smart Monitors and Family Hub, now touts more than 4,300 channels. Samsung highlighted live events and interactivity, including a Jonas Brothers concert partnership where fans voted via remote. A 13% voting rate showed how TV Plus blends entertainment with participation. Salek Brodsky, SVP, called the milestone extraordinary.

Nvidia's Huang: AI boom to bring six-figure salaries for factory builders

January 22, 2026, 9:22 AM EST. At Davos, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said the AI build-out will create six-figure salaries for workers who construct chip factories, computer factories and AI facilities. He called it the largest infrastructure push in history, noting demand for plumbers, electricians, construction and network technicians, and other trades, with salaries nearly doubling. The remarks come as AI could displace some white-collar roles. Microsoft research from 2025 found blue-collar jobs are the least likely to be automated, including phlebotomists, painters and ship engineers. IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva warned AI is hitting the labor market like a tsunami. The Davos dialogue underscores valuing skilled trades as a hedge against disruption while automation spreads elsewhere.

Calacanis says Tesla cars will be forgotten; investors chase a $10 trillion AI opportunity

January 22, 2026, 9:20 AM EST. Tech investor Jason Calacanis argues that Tesla's next-gen AI push hinges on its humanoid robot, not its cars. In a recent interview, Calacanis suggested no one will remember the car era; they'll recall the Tesla Optimus robot, a view he said Elon Musk could turn into billions of units. With a direct line to Musk, Calacanis questions whether the carmaker's AI bets will outpace the wider AI opportunity worth roughly $10 trillion. He notes Optimus is designed to be a general-purpose worker, leveraging vision, neural networks and software to operate in real life. The debate spotlights a shift from autos to physical AI, as robots start touching everyday workflows, echoing how giants like Amazon embed robotics in logistics.

Nvidia's Huang says AI boom will create six-figure salaries for factory builders

January 22, 2026, 9:18 AM EST. At Davos, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang framed AI as a major public works program, saying the AI boom will spur 'six-figure salaries' for people building chip factories or AI factories. He called it the largest infrastructure build-out in history, noting growth in trades such as plumbers, electricians, construction workers, network technicians, and equipment installers. The praise sits alongside potential job losses from automation, with IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva calling AI a 'tsunami' for labor markets. Microsoft research, referencing 200,000 Bing Copilot conversations, found blue-collar roles-such as phlebotomists, painters, ship engineers-are least likely to be automated, suggesting safer employment prospects for hands-on work. Huang urged vocational training so that people can pursue these well-paid roles.

Sovereign AI elusive as nations pursue orchestration over isolation

January 22, 2026, 9:16 AM EST. Governments aim to pour about $1.3 trillion into AI infrastructure by 2030 to build sovereign AI, insisting nations should control their own capabilities. Funds target domestic data centers, locally trained models, independent supply chains, and national talent pipelines, in response to shocks from Covid-era disruptions, geopolitics, and the war in Ukraine. But sovereignty is elusive: AI supply chains remain global-chips designed in the US and built in East Asia; models trained on diverse datasets; deployments across many jurisdictions. The answer is not isolation but orchestration, balancing autonomy with partnership. A November Accenture survey shows 62% of European firms seeking sovereign AI, peaking in Denmark (80%) and Germany (72%). Singapore focuses on governance, identity, and applications; Israel leans on startups and military-adjacent research to wield outsized influence.

RansomHub claims breach at Luxshare, Apple supplier; data allegedly stolen

January 22, 2026, 9:14 AM EST. Ransomware group RansomHub claims Luxshare Precision Industry, a key Apple partner and maker of iPhone components and Vision Pro hardware, was breached. A post on the group's data-leak site claims attackers stole and encrypted confidential data. The note to Luxshare's management threatens disclosure if not contacted. Stolen items cited include 3D CAD product models, 3D engineering data, high-precision geometric data for Parasolid, 2D component drawings, engineering PDFs, and PCB design and manufacturing data. The group says data also covers Apple, Nvidia, LG, Geely, Tesla, and other clients. Cybernews says leaked packages seem to include confidential projects on device repair and shipping between Apple and Luxshare. Help Net Security has asked Luxshare for comment; no confirmation yet. RaaS operates by leasing ransomware infrastructure to affiliates.

Blue Origin to launch NS-38 with six space tourists from Texas on Jan. 22

January 22, 2026, 9:02 AM EST. Blue Origin aims to lift six space tourists aboard its New Shepard rocket for NS-38 from Launch Site One in West Texas on Thursday at 9:30 a.m. ET. The flight will reach about 60 miles up, providing a view of Earth and a moment of microgravity. A livestream will begin roughly 30 minutes before liftoff on Blue Origin's site and on X. One passenger withdrew due to illness; Dr. Laura Stiles, Blue Origin's Director of New Shepard Launch Operations, will join as the new sixth crew member. The flight marks New Shepard's 38th mission and 16th human spaceflight, continuing Bezos-era suborbital tourism.

Distance Technologies unveils Field Operator HUD AR system for military vehicles

January 22, 2026, 8:58 AM EST. Distance Technologies has unveiled the Field Operator HUD (FOH), an AI-enhanced AR system for military vehicles from light utility platforms to main battle tanks. FOH fuses the company's optics with AI-assisted data processing to boost situational awareness, reduce visual workload, and improve survivability. Field trials have been conducted with UK and Finnish forces, and FOH integrates command-and-control functions by fusing multiple sensor inputs, mirroring moves like Anduril's EagleEye. The system uses AI-driven sensor fusion and automated detection to present only critical information, combining thermal, night vision, and vehicle sensors into a single picture. A per-eye lightfield enables natural XR alignment with reality. NATO trials are planned for late Q1 2026, with broader deployment from 2027.

Alibaba plans IPO for AI chipmaker T-Head, Bloomberg reports

January 22, 2026, 8:54 AM EST. Alibaba plans an IPO for its AI chipmaking unit T-Head, Bloomberg News reported. The company is preparing to list after restructuring the unit as a business partly owned by employees, the report said, though timing remains unclear. Reuters could not verify the report, and Alibaba did not immediately comment. The process is at an early stage, with the potential valuation of the unit remaining unclear. T-Head Semiconductor, founded in 2018, is Alibaba Group's wholly owned unit developing processors-from data-center and artificial intelligence chips to Internet-of-Things products across the full chip design stack. In November, Alibaba launched a major upgrade to its AI chatbot with a consumer-facing app based on its Qwen large language model, accelerating the push to narrow the gap with domestic rivals in China's AI race.

Blue Origin unveils TeraWave fast-satellite network targeting enterprise customers

January 22, 2026, 8:48 AM EST. Blue Origin unveils TeraWave, a satellite network targeting enterprise, data centers, and governments with ultra-fast links delivering up to 6 terabits per second. The plan envisions 5,280 low-Earth orbit satellites using radio links at up to 144 Gbps, plus 128 medium-Earth orbit satellites with optical links offering 6 Tbps. First satellites expected to launch by end-2027; full operational timeline unclear. TeraWave adds a separate network layer to existing infrastructure where fiber is impractical, prioritizing symmetrical upload/download speeds, redundancy, and rapid scalability. TechCrunch notes Bezos' broader space ambitions; TeraWave is not direct competition to Leo, but complements it. Competing with Starlink, it targets commercial, governmental, and large-scale enterprise connections.

Apple's home hub may include a robotic swiveling base, sources say

January 22, 2026, 8:34 AM EST. Apple plans a spring release for a home hub with a robotic swiveling base, The Information's Wayne Ma reports. The device, described as a small-display speaker with a heavy emphasis on AI features, is said to be part of two versions-wall-mounted and a desktop/tabletop model-with a base reminiscent of a HomePod mini. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has described a tabletop robot path as a 2027 follow-up, featuring a 360-degree rotating display on a thin robotic arm and a visual personality. Apple has not detailed how the swiveling base would work, but insiders say sensors would determine which user is in the room. The launch could coincide with iOS 26.4 and an upgraded Siri; no final specs or date have been confirmed.

Apple mulls wearable AI pin; Anthropic widens Claude safety remit

January 22, 2026, 8:30 AM EST. Apple is reportedly developing a screenless wearable AI pin about the size of an AirTag, with cameras, a microphone and a speaker. The Information says it could arrive next year, joining a growing pin/badge category that includes Meta's AI-enabled glasses and OpenAI's expected gadget. Apple's earlier bets-VisionPro and its in-house LLM-led to mixed results and a reliance on Google Gemini for Siri. Separately, Anthropic is updating its Claude model to teach it why it should act ethically, not just what to do, signaling a pivot toward stronger AI safety arguments for enterprise customers and broader adoption. The moves sit amid a crowded race to infuse everyday devices with AI capabilities while balancing usability and trust.

Luxshare breach hits Apple supply chain; hackers claim access to CAD and PCB data

January 22, 2026, 8:26 AM EST. Luxshare, a key Apple supplier, suffered a December 15, 2025 ransomware attack that remains unconfirmed by Luxshare, Apple or other users of the contract assembler. Hackers calling themselves RansomHub say they've stolen files including production data, device repair timelines and personal data of project staff dating back to 2019, and are offering them on a dark web forum. The group claims access to a trove of file types, including .prt CAD models, Parasolid .x_t, DWG, DXF, PDFs with schematics and Gerber PCB data. AppleInsider cites insiders who say .prt files, used by Siemens NX to model each component, would reveal exact dimensions of screws, brackets and spacers. If genuine, the material could expose confidential designs for iPhone, iPad and Vision Pro hardware.

iOS 26.3 could enable RCS end-to-end encryption across Android, with iMessage upgrades

January 22, 2026, 8:24 AM EST. Apple's next iPhone update, iOS 26.3, is expected to roll out after a series of developer and public betas. The betas hint at cross-platform RCS messaging with E2EE for messages to Android, via RCS Universal Profile 3.0, while keeping existing iMessage privacy. Enhancements include inline replies, edit, unsend, and a new Tapback option. Apple notes updates could reach iPhones from 11 through the 17, though beta features may not all land in the final release. A public beta confirms the core RCS changes; additional data-transfer features to Android and EU-specific UI tweaks appear. The rollout timeline remains uncertain, with carriers responsible for implementing support.

Alibaba Plans IPO for T-Head AI-Chip Unit After Restructuring

January 22, 2026, 8:20 AM EST. Alibaba is preparing to list its T-Head AI-chip unit by restructuring it as a partly employee-owned business before pursuing an IPO. Timing and valuation are unclear, but investor appetite for AI accelerators remains strong, including competition with Nvidia. Rivals such as Moore Threads and Cambricon have drawn demand; Cambricon is valued around $80 billion in public markets. Alibaba's ADRs rose more than 5% in premarket trading. T-Head designs chips for computing and storage; shipments trail leading players like Huawei and Cambricon, but it has gained traction thanks to Alibaba's sustained investment. CEO Eddie Wu has pledged more than $53 billion toward infrastructure and AI. Separately, Alibaba has integrated Qwen, its consumer app, into AI services, aiming to build a one-stop personal assistant across Alibaba's offerings.

Galaxy S26 Ultra colors leak: six shades with two new hues

January 22, 2026, 8:16 AM EST. Leaks outline six colors for the Galaxy S26 Ultra-black, white, silver shadow, sky blue, cobalt violet, and pink gold. Two new hues, cobalt violet and pink gold, appear online-exclusive. Leaker Evan Blass posted the color lineup; another insider shared SIM tray images showing a physical SIM slot, suggesting a traditional SIM in at least some regions, though eSIM-only options remain possible in others. Samsung is sticking to safe tones, with no bold shades like the iPhone 17 Pro's Cosmic Orange. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to launch February 25, 2026, with a larger battery, 60W wired charging, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Market availability is tipped for early March. The series seems poised to follow last year's color pattern, with minor tweaks.

Tesla Cybertruck sales slump in 2025 after 2024 peak

January 22, 2026, 8:14 AM EST. Tesla's Cybertruck sales cooled in 2025 after a 2024 peak, with Cox Automotive data showing a drop from roughly 39,000 units in 2024 to 20,200 in the past year. InsideEVs notes the model posted the largest absolute sales decline among US EVs in 2025, an 18,800-unit fall, following a surge in 2024 when it led America's electric pickup segment. The decline coincided with the expiration of the US tax credit on Sept. 30, and the first three quarters showed a 38% year-on-year lag. Rivals like Ford's F-150 Lightning were discontinued, and Ram shelved fully electric plans; GM and Rivian remained in niche BEV pickup space. Tesla, however, remained the leading US EV brand with about 590,000 deliveries and a 46% share last year. The company will report 2025 results on Jan. 28.

Big Tech earnings focus on AI spend, memory bottlenecks and tariff threats

January 22, 2026, 8:10 AM EST. Intel kicks off a wave of Big Tech results, with AI at the forefront of questions about monetization and how hyperscalers will sustain spending. Investors will also parse AMD and Intel PC-chip demand amid Windows 10 end-of-support. A global memory shortage clouds supply and outlooks. Apple is expected to show solid iPhone-driven growth in Q4. Nvidia faces questions about China exposure as it pursues AI-market re-entry. Trump's tariff threats persist, keeping EU-US trade risk alive even as earnings beat expectations. Amazon, Google, Meta and Microsoft remain among the biggest AI spenders, planning heavy capital expenditures to expand data centers into 2025 and beyond, underscoring a broader infrastructure push.

Palantir's Karp says AI will destroy humanities jobs, but vocational training may fill the gap

January 22, 2026, 8:06 AM EST. Palantir cofounder and CEO Alex Karp warned at Davos that artificial intelligence (AI) will destroy humanities jobs, urging graduates to diversify skills. He cited his own path-from elite liberal arts to law and philosophy-as an example of how surface credentials can lose value without marketable specialties. The remarks sit amid a wider debate: some economists say critical thinking and creativity will matter most as AI handles coding and research tasks; others argue there will be a premium on practical skills. BlackRock's Larry Fink and peers push varied views. BlackRock's COO said the firm still recruits from fields outside finance or tech, while McKinsey's Bob Sternfels says liberal arts majors can spur creativity in AI. Palantir backs vocational training through the Meritocracy Fellowship, testing aptitude and offering a path to employment, challenging conventional university hiring.

NVIDIA tops 2026 ranking of the world's most valuable tech giants; Apple and Microsoft follow

January 22, 2026, 8:00 AM EST. By early 2026, investors focus on firms building AI, chips, and cloud platforms. NVIDIA leads the world's most valuable tech companies, driven by data-center chips for AI workloads. Microsoft remains near the top with Azure and enterprise software, while Apple holds a strong hardware and services position. Alphabet (Google), Amazon, and Meta Platforms also rank high, reflecting competition in AI, cloud, and digital advertising. TSMC remains a critical link as the leading contract chip maker. The ranking, drawn from CompaniesMarketCap, shows quick shifts in leadership as hardware and software ecosystems converge. The list underscores how the tech landscape is reshaping investor expectations in 2026.

Blue Origin targets enterprise networks with multi-terabit satellite connectivity plan

January 22, 2026, 7:48 AM EST. Blue Origin's enterprise plan leans on a multi-terabit satellite system to serve remote and sensitive regions. Analysts say use cases include cloud-to-cloud links, data-center replication, and government or disaster-recovery workloads, favored by strict SLAs and deep carrier integration. Adoption will hinge on sector needs; banks and national security agencies may see it as a redundant path, while most firms would use it as a supplementary layer rather than a replacement for terrestrial links. Real-world capacity is total, not per-user: 6 Tbps via optical inter-satellite links and ground gateways. Latency sits between fiber and GEO; jitter, outages from handovers or weather can cause episodic packet loss.

Peter Thiel Sells Nvidia; Entire Portfolio Now in 3 AI Stocks: Tesla, Microsoft, Apple

January 22, 2026, 7:34 AM EST. Peter Thiel has exited Nvidia, leaving Thiel Macro fully invested in three AI stocks: Tesla 39%, Microsoft 34%, and Apple 27%. The fund reportedly beat the S&P 500 by about 16 percentage points over the past year. The piece explains how each holding leans into AI: Tesla emphasizes autonomous driving and the humanoid robot Optimus, using a vision-only FSD approach that minimizes sensors. Analysts note valuation challenges for Tesla, as revenue from robots or robotaxis remains largely in the future, with robotaxi and humanoid markets projected as potentially multitrillion-dollar. Microsoft relies on enterprise software and cloud, monetizing AI through Copilots, security, ERP, and BI, with Azure expanding market share and AI services. The tone is cautious on timing and valuation, but the AI thesis remains central to the trio.

Iridium relaunches D2D satellite connectivity with 2026 rollout

January 22, 2026, 7:32 AM EST. At CES 2026, Iridium relaunched its pitch for direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity, aiming to reach devices without special handsets. The plan hinges on a long-running LEO data-satellite constellation and a D2D service scheduled for 2026, leveraging 80 Iridium Next satellites. COO Suzanne McBride touted reliability and a proven track record. A breakthrough was securing 3GPP approval to add space-hosted NB-IoT to Release 19, expanding interoperability beyond proprietary hardware. Nordic Semiconductor will support the NTN Direct service in cellular chips, letting IoT vendors reuse existing networks. Partnerships with Syniverse and Deutsche Telekom open sales via mobile network operators (MNOs). GSMA Intelligence sees up to 2.5 billion satellite-addressable IoT devices, with about $10 billion in potential revenue.

Apple to turn Siri into ChatGPT-like AI chatbot, Bloomberg reports

January 22, 2026, 7:20 AM EST. Apple plans a major overhaul of Siri into an AI chatbot embedded in iPhone, iPad, and Mac, a shift Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says will come later this year. The update will replace the current Siri interface and let users interact by typing or speaking, mirroring ChatGPT-style chatbots from Google, OpenAI, and others. The move is separate from upcoming AI-powered personalization features. The chatbot reportedly runs on a custom Google Gemini AI model as part of a multiyear partnership. Codenamed Campos, Apple is expected to reveal it at WWDC in June and launch with iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27 in September, with other updates focused on stability.

Arknights: Endfield debuts on PS5, PC and mobile with launch rewards

January 22, 2026, 7:18 AM EST. Arknights: Endfield is now available on PlayStation 5, PC via the official launcher and Epic Games Store, and mobile on iOS and Android. Publisher GRYPHLINE and developer Mountain Contour bring the IP into a 3D space with a new frontier, Talos-II, and the Automated Industrial Complex (AIC). Players command squads of up to four Operators in real-time combat and base-building across a sprawling world. Launch rewards include sign-in bonuses and milestones worth at least 135 pulls across banners. Co-founder Light Zhong says the 3D shift was a major milestone, aiming for a distinct experience rooted in factory automation. Arknights has surpassed 100 million downloads, and Endfield expands the IP beyond mobile into console and PC, with a new Endfield storyline and Zeroth Directive.

Nomad unveils Icy Blue Glow Stratos Band for Apple Watch Ultra with glow-in-the-dark accents

January 22, 2026, 7:12 AM EST. Nomad rolls out the Icy Blue Glow Stratos Band for Apple Watch Ultra, a limited-run mix of Grade 4 titanium hardware and compression-molded FKM fluoroelastomer. The outer links are titanium with a DLC finish; interior FKM links offer comfort and moisture ventilation. A photoluminescent interior imbues a subtle blue glow in low light. The band uses a custom magnetic clasp and includes a tool to adjust link count. It is compatible with Apple Watch Ultra (Series 1+) and older Series 1-11 and SE, fitting wrists ~130-200 mm. The fluoroelastomer is antimicrobial and easy to clean; the band is water-resistant and should dry completely after moisture exposure. Priced at $189, Nomad frames it as a premium playful accessory with rugged durability.

Samsung rolls January 2026 update to Galaxy S25, Z Fold/Flip devices in the US

January 22, 2026, 7:06 AM EST. Samsung is widening the rollout of its January 2026 software update in the United States, reaching the Galaxy S25 family and Z Fold/Flip models via Verizon. The rollout follows an initial beta phase for the S25 line and expands to other devices, citing enhanced security patches. Verizon's page notes the package delivers the most up-to-date Android security patches. Samsung says the update includes up to 55 improvements, with Exynos-powered phones receiving all patches, while non-Exynos devices omit Exynos-specific SVE items. Build identifiers include BYLR for S25, AZA1 for Fold 7/Flip 7, and CYL5 for Fold 6/Flip 6. To update, go to Settings > Software update > Check for system updates, then Download and Install.

Samsung's Galaxy S26 Mystery Box adds free accessories in preorder

January 22, 2026, 7:04 AM EST. Samsung-backed SammyGuru launches a prelaunch Mystery Box for the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, part of the SammyGuru Rewards program. Every preorder unit will ship with a bundled set of accessories-case, screen protector, desktop stand, cleaning kit, a 65W GaN charger, and USB-C wired earbuds-uniform across the S26 lineup. The offer, US-exclusive, carries no extra charge or shipping fee and requires buying from Samsung.com via a provided link. The program aims to recreate the premium unboxing experience once standard in US markets. Further details will be shared as launch nears; signups for the Mystery Box and SammyGuru newsletter are encouraged to receive alerts.

Upscale AI raises $200M to challenge Nvidia's NVSwitch in AI networking

January 22, 2026, 6:58 AM EST. Upscale AI announced a $200 million Series A to challenge Nvidia's dominance in rack-scale AI networking. The startup, founded last year with backers including Intel, AMD and Qualcomm, aims to rival Nvidia's NVSwitch chips used in NVL72 racks with its SkyHammer ASICs. CEO Barun Kar said the reimagined scale-up architecture focuses on AI workloads, with a memory semantic load-store network and acceleration for collective communication akin to Nvidia's Sharp. Upscale will offer standalone silicon and integrated switch blades, and will support UALink and ESUN protocols, plus extend support for the SONiC NOS. Backers include Tiger Global, Premji Invest and Xora Innovation. The funding accelerates hiring as the company targets first AI networking products later this year.

Artists launch campaign against AI training 'theft,' seek licensing and opt-out rights

January 22, 2026, 6:46 AM EST. About 800 artists, writers, actors and musicians signed on to the Human Artistry Campaign's 'Stealing Isn't Innovation' push, accusing AI firms of copying work without permission or payment. The signatories include George Saunders, Jodi Picoult, Cate Blanchett, Scarlett Johansson, R.E.M., Billy Corgan and The Roots. The campaign demands licensing agreements, a robust enforcement environment, and artists' right to opt out of having their work used to train models. Organizers say the industry is driven by competition for GenAI leadership and that unlicensed use threatens AI quality and American competitiveness. In parallel, major labels and publishers are negotiating licenses for AI remixing and content use; some outlets have signed deals to allow AI access to news, while others pursue blocking standards. The politics at the federal level remain unsettled.

Ohio cell phone ban takes effect Jan. 1, 2026 in schools

January 22, 2026, 6:44 AM EST. Starting January 1, 2026, Ohio's law bans students from using cell phones during the instructional day. Most districts began the 2025-2026 school year with restrictions, but the statewide ban now applies through all classrooms. Each district must include discipline actions for violations and allow exceptions for students with learning disabilities or medical conditions. Cleveland Metropolitan Schools folded a ban into 2024 negotiations with the teachers' union, which reports positive feedback: more face-to-face interaction and fewer discipline problems tied to recording peers.

AI demand may boost renewables, but fossil fuels remain a short-term crutch, analysts say

January 22, 2026, 6:42 AM EST. AI-driven data centers are lifting sentiment for renewables even as demand fluctuates. The sector faces a bottleneck: integrating variable power and expanding battery storage to keep the grid stable. Analysts say fossil fuels are a short-term crutch to power the roll-out, with the long-term path still aimed at a decarbonized grid. The IEA trimmed its 2025-2030 outlook, citing policy shifts and slower growth for renewables. Europe shows a 2024 share near 50% but needs major transmission upgrades and cheaper storage to unlock a bigger renewables build. If AI accelerates electrification, demand could loop back to support cleaner power.

Blue Origin launches TeraWave satellite internet to challenge Starlink, Leo

January 22, 2026, 6:40 AM EST. Blue Origin unveiled a satellite internet network called TeraWave aimed at enterprise, data-center and government customers. The plan calls for deploying 5,408 satellites in low Earth orbit and medium Earth orbit to deliver data speeds of up to 6 terabits per second. The company said it would begin deployment in the fourth quarter of 2027. The move places Blue Origin in a crowded field led by SpaceX's Starlink, which has more than 9,000 satellites and millions of customers, and Amazon's own Leo service, formerly Project Kuiper. Amazon has launched several satellites-about 180 since last year-with future deployments expected to be handled by Blue Origin, as part of a broader plan to build a 3,236-satellite constellation for commercial and government use.

Blue Origin unveils TeraWave satellite network offering up to 6 Tbps bidirectional internet for enterprises

January 22, 2026, 6:38 AM EST. Blue Origin announced its TeraWave satellite network, built for enterprise use and not consumer markets. The plan envisions a multi-orbit system with 5,408 optically connected satellites, mostly in low-Earth orbit, plus 128 in medium-Earth orbit. Ground customers would connect via wireless links, with LEO links delivering up to 144 Gbps and the MEO layer enabling up to 6 Tbps bidirectional connections. The target is tens of thousands of enterprise, data center, and government users, with a cap of about 100,000 customers and deployments slated to begin near the end of 2027. Blue Origin, led by Dave Limp, positions the service as a higher-grade alternative to consumer-focused rivals like Starlink and Leo. The company also eyes data centers and government buyers as potential customers.

Samsung phones slow due to default settings; disable animations and background activity to speed up

January 22, 2026, 6:36 AM EST. Samsung's phones still offer fast hardware, but many users notice stutters after weeks of use. The slowdown often comes from default settings that prioritize polish or battery life over speed. Two main culprits stand out: excessive animations, which add visual delay to taps and transitions; and aggressive background activity, where apps refresh data even when not in use. To reclaim responsiveness, users can reduce or disable animations under Accessibility → Visual Enhancements or in Developer Options. They can also curb background activity refresh for apps. Note that these tweaks trade a smoother look for faster feel, and may reduce the brand's polished transitions. No hardware upgrade required; just settings changes.

Anthropic refines AI-resistant take-home test to separate top engineers as models improve

January 22, 2026, 6:32 AM EST. Anthropic's Tristan Hume explains a take-home test that evaluates performance engineers by asking candidates to optimize code for a simulated accelerator. Since 2024, over 1,000 applicants have tried it; dozens joined Anthropic, including engineers who built the Trainium cluster. But Claude models improved-Opus 4 and 4.5-so the test no longer separated top humans from the strongest model under time limits. Hume iterated three times to preserve signal; when Opus 4.5 matched top human performance, he redesigned the test to expose AI-assisted weaknesses. Now the original take-home is an open challenge, inviting those who can beat Opus 4.5 given unlimited time. The aim: a robust filter as AI capabilities rise.

8849 Tank X rugged phone adds built-in 1080p projector

January 22, 2026, 6:24 AM EST. 8849 Tech's Tank X is a rugged 6.78-inch smartphone powered by a Dimensity 8200, with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. It weighs 750 grams and 31.9mm thick for outdoor use. The model adds a built-in 1080p DLP projector with laser autofocus and a 68.1 Wh battery, plus 120W fast charging and 10W reverse charging. A 1200-lumen RGB camping light sits on the back. Connectivity covers 5G NR, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, GPS and NFC; it offers two nano SIM slots or nano SIM plus microSD, plus a 3.5mm jack and IR blaster. Camera setup includes a 50MP Sony IMX766 main, 64MP night vision, 8MP 3× tele, and a 50MP front cam. Availability February 1, 2026 on the 8849 Tech site. IP68 dust/water resistance.

KLM rolls out free WiFi on European flights

January 22, 2026, 6:22 AM EST. KLM began rolling out free WiFi on most European routes starting January 22, allowing passengers to email, browse, stream, or play games during flight. The initiative, phased across the fleet, will see half of the European planes equipped with the service this week, with full coverage planned on aircraft such as the A321neo, Embraer 195-E2, and portions of the B737-800 in coming years. Passengers log in or register as a Flying Blue member to access unlimited internet. The move follows customer feedback requesting internet access and aims to make travel within Europe more comfortable when the airline operates without in-seat entertainment screens. KLM has added 12 new A321neo aircraft since August, which include WiFi and modern seating.

KLM rolls out free WiFi on European flights

January 22, 2026, 6:18 AM EST. KLM on Monday began offering complimentary WiFi on European routes, with a phased rollout in place. Starting January 22, passengers can email, browse, listen to music, play games or stream content during flights. Half of the European fleet will be equipped with free internet as of Thursday, with WiFi to be installed on all A321neo, Embraer 195-E2 and a portion of B737-800 aircraft in coming years. The airline's European planes do not have in-seat screens; free internet is meant to boost comfort. After logging in or registering as a Flying Blue member, travelers enjoy unlimited internet during the flight. Stephanie Putzeist, head of customer experience, said the feature responds to passenger wishes and makes travel more personal and comfortable. Since August last year, KLM added 12 new A321neo aircraft serving European routes, equipped with WiFi and modern seats.

Blue Origin launches TeraWave satellite internet to rival Starlink and Leo

January 22, 2026, 6:14 AM EST. Blue Origin unveiled TeraWave, a satellite internet network for enterprise, data center and government customers. The constellation would comprise 5,408 satellites in low Earth orbit and medium Earth orbit, delivering speeds up to 6 terabits per second. Deployment is expected to begin in Q4 2027. The project broadens competition with SpaceX's Starlink and Amazon's Leo, which has already launched about 180 satellites. Blue Origin will handle several future deployments alongside Amazon's existing plan, while Starlink remains the dominant operator with thousands of satellites and millions of customers. Bezos has said Blue Origin aims to become a major business, though it remains primarily a rocket company. The network underscores Amazon's broader push into space-enabled services.

8849 Tank X: rugged phone with built-in 1080p projector and 17600 mAh battery

January 22, 2026, 6:10 AM EST. 8849 Tech's Tank X blends a rugged outdoor phone with a built-in projector. The device sports a 6.78-inch, 2460×1080, 120 Hz display, a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chip, 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, in a chassis about 31.9 mm thick and 750 g heavy. It features a 1080p, 220-lumen DLP projector with laser autofocus, a 17600 mAh battery (68.1 Wh) and 120W fast charging, plus 10W reverse charging. A 1200-lumen RGB camping light sits on the back. Connectivity covers 5G NR, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC and GPS; it also includes a 3.5mm jack and IR blaster. Cameras: 50MP main, 64MP night vision, 8MP 3x tele and 50MP selfie. Availability starts February 1, 2026 on the 8849 Tech site. IP68 rating.

Anthropic refines AI-resistant take-home test to hire performance engineers

January 22, 2026, 5:54 AM EST. Anthropic's Tristan Hume explains how the company redesigned a take-home test to assess performance engineers under AI-assisted conditions. Since early 2024, candidates optimize code for a simulated accelerator; more than 1,000 complete it, with dozens joining the team. But each Claude model upgrade – Opus 4, then Opus 4.5 – has challenged the test, as the models began rivaling or matching top human performance within the same time limits. Humans still win with unlimited time, but the take-home's constraints erode that edge. Hume has iterated through three versions to preserve signal, testing different attack surfaces for AI resistance. He's releasing the original take-home as an open challenge to see if someone can beat Opus 4.5; the post notes the design goals and the need for more strong engineers through increasingly creative screening. Details at the bottom.

Apple Watch tip: Hold Find My Phone to make your iPhone flash

January 22, 2026, 5:38 AM EST. Tech reviewer says daily Apple Watch use hides a simple trick. After years of treating the Watch as a companion to the iPhone, they discover that holding the Find My Phone button makes the iPhone flash, helping locate it around the house. The action uses the side button and the Find My app's alert. For users with an iPhone 15 (or newer) and Apple Watch Series 9 (or later), the precision finding tool adds distance and location cues to narrow the search. The piece highlights how small refinements in familiar tools can save time and invites readers to share whether they knew this trick.

AI spending explodes; Broadcom stands to gain as hyperscalers shift to AI ASICs

January 22, 2026, 5:32 AM EST. Artificial-intelligence infrastructure spending is booming, shifting demand from Nvidia GPUs toward custom AI ASICs. Broadcom is a key supplier, helping customers design and manufacture chips at scale and expanding its role beyond Nvidia's dominance. Alphabet's TPU program has underpinned Broadcom's growth, with a reported $21 billion worth of TPUs slated for Anthropic this year as Google Cloud widens deployment. The company also lists OpenAI and Apple among its recent customers, while Citi analysts project AI revenue climbing from roughly $20 billion to $50 billion this year and beyond, potentially reaching $100 billion by fiscal 2027. VMware remains a steady contributor, and non-AI semiconductors could rebound. Even as Nvidia remains a benchmark, Broadcom's AI exposure makes it a focal point for investors.

Chinese banks join space race with satellite launches and rocket backing

January 22, 2026, 5:30 AM EST. Chinese lenders are expanding from financing satellites to placing satellites in orbit under their own names, moving beyond using satellite imagery as bought data. Beijing is pushing commercial aerospace as a new growth engine amid a slowing economy and rising tensions. China Merchants Bank launched a satellite on January 16 from Shandong – its third after launches in December 2024 and March 2025. Shanghai Pudong Development Bank also sent its first satellite into space on January 16. Ping An Bank began its program in August 2022, including its first earth-observation imaging satellite. With three lenders now in orbit, the sector links finance to aerospace infrastructure and data-driven risk assessment, aiming to sharpen market insight and product offerings.

Apple to roll out Apple Pay in India in phased plan, report says

January 22, 2026, 5:20 AM EST. Apple is pursuing a phased rollout of Apple Pay in India, after a Moneycontrol report citing sources familiar with the matter. The company is in talks with card networks including Mastercard and Visa, while pursuing regulatory approvals and commercial terms. If approvals and deals align, Apple aims to launch within the calendar year, beginning with card-based contactless payments and later potentially integrating with UPI, India's national payments interface, which would require a separate regulatory framework. The UPI path would differ from card-based systems and needs a distinct licensing process. The move arrives as Apple Pay faces growing competition in India's mobile-wallet market, with PYMNTS noting that gains for Apple Pay are occurring alongside rapid gains by rivals.

Taiwan advances second phase of quantum strategy with hybrid HPC-QC platform and global partnerships

January 22, 2026, 5:16 AM EST. Taiwan's government is moving its quantum technology program into a second phase, aiming to build a national, heterogeneous platform that blends high-performance computing (HPC) with quantum computing. Officials say the plan centers on a scalable architecture that hosts both classical and quantum workloads, enabling researchers to test algorithms on real hybrid systems. The move reflects a shift from pilots to an integrated national capability, with funding tied to partnerships among government labs, universities, and industry. Taiwan also signals a push to court global partnerships, collaborating with international peers to share standards, datasets, and security protocols as the technology matures. A timetable for deployment remains fluid, but officials say early pilots could begin within the next 12 to 24 months.

NVIDIA reportedly pauses RTX 50-series production for six months amid AI demand

January 22, 2026, 5:14 AM EST. Rumors from Moore's Law Is Dead claim NVIDIA will pause almost all RTX 50-series production for about six months to fulfill AI demand, spreading impacts to the DIY PC market. The report says the RTX 5060 and related models could see broad cuts, with both 8 GB and 16 GB variants affected, and the RTX 5050 less exposed due to older GDDR6 RAM. Suppliers expect a trickle of units later in 2026, with some sources signaling a roughly 30% price increase across the board and higher BOM costs. NVIDIA has not publicly confirmed production plans. If true, the scenario underscores tight supply chains amid surging AI workloads and chips demand.

Adobe Acrobat adds AI to turn PDFs into podcasts and presentations

January 22, 2026, 5:06 AM EST. Adobe adds generative AI features to Acrobat Studio, expanding the AI-powered workspace. The Generate Podcast produces podcast-style audio from documents, notes, or transcriptions, using Microsoft GPT for transcription and a Google voice model; Adobe says the tech stack may evolve as it tests options. The Generate Presentation feature, built with Adobe Express, creates pitch decks focused on key insights and can automate or let users edit designs. The update also enables chat-driven PDF editing-signatures, page or image changes, and text edits-via prompts. Adobe stresses these tools sit in Acrobat Studio, distinct from the basic PDF reader. The moves echo industry trends toward summarizing and repurposing documents in audio and visual formats.

Adobe Acrobat adds AI-powered podcasting and presentation tools in Acrobat Studio

January 22, 2026, 5:04 AM EST. Adobe has updated Acrobat with generative AI features in Acrobat Studio, enabling chat-based editing and automatic audio and visual summaries of documents. The Generate Podcast feature creates a podcast-style audio summary from notes, meeting transcriptions, reports and guides, using a Microsoft GPT model for transcription and a Google voice model. Adobe says it may switch models as it tests options. For visuals, the Generate Presentation tool taps into Adobe Express to produce presentation designs that can be automated or tweaked. Acrobat Studio users can also edit PDFs via natural-language prompts, adding signatures, removing pages or replacing text and images. The updates extend Acrobat Studio's AI capabilities, noted by the reporter. Report by Jess Weatherbed.

Hollywood launches anti-AI campaign as stars back call to curb training on copyrighted works

January 22, 2026, 5:02 AM EST. Celebrity-backed push, dubbed Stealing Isn't Innovation, launches with more than 700 supporters and a full-page NYT ad. The Human Artistry Campaign claims tech firms train generative AI on copyrighted works without permission, endangering artists' careers. Beyond Johansson, Cate Blanchett and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, signatories include directors, writers, musicians and authors, plus unions such as WGA, SAG-AFTRA, RIAA and NFL Players Association. The coalition urges licensing and lets creators opt out of AI training. Dr. Moiya McTier, senior advisor, says true innovation comes from human creativity; licensing offers a path to mutual benefit. Disney disclosed a three-year deal with OpenAI to license characters for Sora, the largest sanctioned license to date, underscoring how rare licensing remains.

Ubisoft Unveils Major Reset: Layoffs, Canceled Titles, Delays, and Return-to-Office Mandate

January 22, 2026, 4:56 AM EST. Ubisoft outlined a company-wide reset, signaling a move to a Creative House focused on open-world and live-service games. CEO Yves Guillemot said the Paris studio would selectively close several studios and pursue group restructurings to build a more focused, efficient and sustainable operation. The plan includes six canceled titles, among them a Prince of Persia adaptation, and seven further titles delayed to finish development. The firm will require staff to return to offices five days a week, reversing pandemic-era remote work. The video game market remains robust but shifts toward mobile; Ubisoft aims for about €200 million ($240 million) in cost savings, on top of roughly €500 million already saved since 2022.

Ubisoft unveils major reset with layoffs, canceled titles and return-to-office mandate

January 22, 2026, 4:54 AM EST. Ubisoft on Wednesday announced a company-wide reset that includes layoffs, the cancellation of six titles (including a Prince of Persia adaptation) and seven delayed projects, plus a tighter return-to-office mandate. Co-founder and CEO Yves Guillemot said the Paris-based publisher would selectively close studios and pursue group-wide restructurings to build a more focused, efficient and sustainable organization. The plan introduces a Creative House structure focused on open-world adventure and game-as-service-native experiences. The company did not specify headcount affected, but said a final round of cuts would target about €200 million in cost savings, adding to roughly €500 million saved since 2022. Ubisoft notes the video game market remains robust yet is shifting toward mobile, reshaping traditional tentpole development and capital intensity.

Xbox app lands on Arm-based Windows 11 PCs

January 22, 2026, 4:52 AM EST. Microsoft has released the Xbox app for all Arm-based Windows 11 PCs, extending a previous update to its Prism emulator that adds AVX and AVX2 support for translating x86/x64 apps. The move lets Arm users purchase, download and stream PC games, with Microsoft claiming more than 85% of the Game Pass catalog runs on Arm. Unlike SteamOS, Windows on Arm supports anti-cheat software such as Easy Anti-Cheat, expanding multiplayer access. The shift comes as Microsoft pushes Windows on Arm through its Copilot+ PC program and Snapdragon-powered hardware from Qualcomm. While past efforts focused on AMD-based PCs, the company hints an Arm-based Windows 11 handheld could arrive sooner rather than later.

Microsoft brings Xbox app to Arm-based Windows PCs

January 22, 2026, 4:48 AM EST. Microsoft has released the Xbox app for all Arm-based Windows 11 PCs, expanding access to PC games and streaming from Game Pass. The feature follows a December 2025 Prism emulator update that translates x86 and x64 apps to Arm and adds AVX and AVX2 support, boosting performance for games on Arm devices. Microsoft says more than 85 percent of the Game Pass catalog runs on Arm PCs. Unlike SteamOS, Windows on Arm supports anti-cheat software such as Epic's Easy Anti-Cheat, widening the online multiplayer library. The move comes as Microsoft pushes Arm in its Copilot+ PC program and Qualcomm-powered Snapdragon devices, fueling talk of an Arm-based Windows 11 handheld in the future.

OnePlus 15T leaks reveal screen, cameras, and charging specs

January 22, 2026, 4:46 AM EST. Digital Chat Station on Weibo says the OnePlus 15T will feature a 6.32-inch screen with 1.5K resolution and a dual rear camera setup of 50MP main and 50MP telephoto, plus a 16MP selfie sensor. There is no third rear camera, echoing the OnePlus 13T. The phone is tipped to run the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and pack a large battery, estimated around 7000-8000 mAh, with wireless charging. Weight is listed at 194g and colorways include Relaxing Matcha, Healing White Chocolate, and Pure Cocoa, with up to 16GB RAM and up to 1TB storage. Release is expected in March; details may evolve as rumors continue.

China Tightens Nvidia H200 Imports, Reshaping the AI Race

January 22, 2026, 4:44 AM EST. Beijing banned imports of Nvidia's H200 AI accelerator, a move Reuters says is vague but could preserve Beijing's leverage in Sino-US talks. The policy follows a pause on H200 imports and could curb Nvidia's sales while pushing China toward domestic chips, given Beijing's difficulty producing high-powered GPUs. The U.S. had approved some Nvidia sales to Chinese firms with caveats, including a roughly 25% cut for the U.S. government. Experts offer competing theories-from security concerns to bargaining tactics and a push for local chip development. The ban may reshape Nvidia's business model, China's AI programs, and America's AI-dependent economy. China could fill the gap with domestic production, gray/black market imports, or tech workarounds, as developers wrestle with limits on H200 purchases, allowed only under necessary or special circumstances.

China bans Nvidia H200 imports, signaling shift to domestic chips

January 22, 2026, 4:42 AM EST. Beijing has banned imports of Nvidia's H200 AI chip, a move that reshapes the global race to build frontier AI. The policy was first reported by The Information and later clarified by Reuters. It comes as China pauses H200 imports to favor domestic hardware, and as authorities weigh ways to curb foreign suppliers in a broader trade context. The H200, Nvidia's most advanced export chip, remains central to Beijing's AI ambitions, though the country has struggled to replicate it domestically. Analysts see motives ranging from boosting domestic chip production to potential security concerns and bargaining tactics in US-China talks. The development could affect Nvidia's business model, China's AI programs, and the trajectory of America's AI-driven growth, with Chinese developers likely seeking workarounds or domestic alternatives.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Privacy Display teased in One UI 8.5 Good Lock leaks

January 22, 2026, 4:40 AM EST. Samsung's website preview of One UI 8.5 includes updates to Good Lock modules – LockStar, QuickStar, HomeUp, Theme Park and GameBooster+ – adding new customization options. Notable: a screenshot appears to confirm a Galaxy S26 Ultra feature named Privacy Display, which uses a hardware off-angle privacy screen to obscure content. Samsung describes One UI as its Android skin and Good Lock as a separate customization suite; both aim to tailor the lock screen, quick settings and game controls. The Privacy Display is expected to be Ultra-exclusive. The Galaxy S26 lineup is due in late February.

Anthropic releases Claude constitution under CC0 to guide AI behavior

January 22, 2026, 4:36 AM EST. Anthropic has published Claude's constitution, a detailed framework outlining the values and behavior the AI should embody. The document, released under CC0 1.0 Deed, explains the context in which Claude operates and how it should balance honesty with compassion, and adhere to safety and compliance with guidelines. Officials say the constitution is a central component of training, shaping outputs and providing a transparent baseline for intended versus unintended behavior. It describes how the constitution informs synthetic data generation, scenario handling and decision-making. Anthropic emphasizes the constitution is the final authority, though training remains complex and outputs may diverge. The company argues that transparency will help users understand capabilities and limitations.

Anthropic releases Claude constitution under CC0 to guide AI values and behavior

January 22, 2026, 4:32 AM EST. Anthropic published Claude's constitution, a comprehensive guide to values and behavior for the AI model, under CC0 1.0 Deed. The document explains how Claude should act-being helpful, safe, ethical, and compliant with guidelines-and why transparency matters as the model trains. It describes how the constitution informs data used to train Claude, including synthetic conversations and response rankings, and how it may influence future versions. While Claude's outputs may not always reflect the ideals, the organization argues that making the intent explicit helps users understand intended versus unintended behavior and provides a basis for feedback.

Samsung leaks Galaxy S26 Ultra 'Privacy Display' as One UI 8.5 Good Lock updates surface

January 22, 2026, 4:30 AM EST. Samsung posted a broad set of Good Lock updates tied to One UI 8.5, including new options in LockStar, QuickStar, HomeUp, Theme Park and GameBooster+. Highlights let users customize unlock animations, edit Quick Settings panels, adjust landscape and panel size, and map a physical gamepad to touchscreen inputs. In a screenshot, Samsung inadvertently confirmed the Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display, a hardware-backed feature meant to hide screen content from off-angle viewers. The feature is expected to be exclusive to the Galaxy S26 Ultra and aligns with months of leaks. The Galaxy S26 series is slated for launch in late February.

Mario Kart World free update adds team-based Knockout Tour on Nintendo Switch 2

January 22, 2026, 4:28 AM EST. Nintendo Switch 2 owners get a free Mario Kart World update (version 1.5.0) adding a team-based Knockout Tour for local wireless and online play. Up to four teams can race together in 2-team (12v12), 3-team (8v8), or 4-team (6v6) formats among 24 drivers. Checkpoints eliminate racers, with points awarded by final placement-50 for 1st, 40 for 2nd, 35 for 3rd, 30 for 4th; the four drivers who fail the first checkpoint earn 1 point. Coordination matters; teams can be tracked by colors, and the winner is the team with the highest total. Spectator options include camera switching and broadcast comments. The update includes friend-list steps and a help page for updating.

Uganda's internet shutdown slashes incomes as online businesses stall

January 22, 2026, 4:18 AM EST. Uganda's government ordered a nationwide internet shutdown ahead of last week's elections, crippling mobile-money withdrawals and online commerce in Kampala. Vendors like Mirembe Tracy said commissions vanished as withdrawals were cut off, leaving her weekly income up to 450,000 Ugandan shillings. Small businesses, ride-hailing platforms, and sellers who rely on Instagram, WhatsApp, and other apps could not process orders or deliver. SafeBoda reported its servers offline, forcing riders off the road. Journalists and ordinary users found research and communication hampered; some households switched to television. The Communications Authority cited peace and stability aims, while opponents argued it masked fraud. The outage highlighted how digital tools underpin livelihoods and daily life in modern Uganda.

Uganda's internet shutdown slashes incomes as online life grinds to a halt

January 22, 2026, 4:12 AM EST. Uganda's government ordered a nationwide internet shutdown during last week's general election, disrupting mobile money and online commerce in Kampala. Mobile money agent Mirembe Tracy saw withdrawals cut off, wiping out weeks of income from commissions and forcing rent payments to falter. For two days around the vote, many stayed home; vendors could only sell prepaid airtime, which paid no commissions. The Communications Authority said the move aimed to preserve peace and curb misuse of platforms, while opponents accused it of masking voter fraud. Online businesses paused; SafeBoda's server went down, riders lost earnings; Namukwaya Olivia reported missing orders and deliveries. Journalists and others found smartphones reduced to unreliable tools until services returned.

OnePlus 15T leaks detail camera, screen and charging specs

January 22, 2026, 4:08 AM EST. Leaked details for the OnePlus 15T surface from Digital Chat Station on Weibo. The device is expected to feature a 6.32-inch screen with a reported 1.5K resolution, a 50MP main camera, a 50MP telephoto, and a 16MP selfie cam. There is no third rear camera, echoing the OnePlus 13T. Power may come from a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset with a rumored battery between 7,000 and 8,000 mAh and wireless charging. Weight is pegged at 194g, with colorways including Relaxing Matcha, Healing White Chocolate, and Pure Cocoa, and options up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage. Launch window cited as March; sensor or processing updates are possible.

iQOO 15 Ultra rumored to pack industry's largest active cooling fan

January 22, 2026, 3:58 AM EST. Unverified claims from Digital Chat Station on Weibo describe the upcoming iQOO 15 Ultra as housing what would be the biggest active cooling fan in a smartphone. The schematic reportedly shows a 17mm-diameter, 4mm-thick fan with air intake at the bottom of the camera island and an outlet on the frame's side. A large vapor chamber is said to work with the fan to sustain long gaming sessions without throttling. Rumored specs include a 7,800 mAh battery, a display identical to the iQOO 15, and a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC. The leaker suggests the cooling system could enable benchmark gains, but official confirmation is still pending.

iQOO 15 Ultra may house industry-leading active cooling fan, leaks suggest

January 22, 2026, 3:56 AM EST. The iQOO 15 Ultra is rumored to launch with the largest active cooling fan in a smartphone. Digital Chat Station on Weibo posted an image of a schematic showing the fan. The intake sits at the bottom of the camera island; the outlet is on the frame's side. The fan is said to measure 17mm in diameter and 4mm thick, claimed to be the biggest in the industry. A large vapor chamber works with the fan to sustain long gaming sessions without throttling. The device is also pegged to carry a 7,800 mAh battery, the same display as the iQOO 15, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC. Leaks suggest the cooling system could help it set benchmark records on release.

Hollywood anti-AI campaign urges licensing and opt-out for training data

January 22, 2026, 3:46 AM EST. Hollywood's anti-AI campaign, led by the Human Artistry Campaign, launches on Thursday to oppose training generative AI on copyrighted works without permission. The effort, named Stealing Isn't Innovation, gathers about 700 supporters, including stars such as Scarlett Johansson, Cate Blanchett and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, plus musicians and authors. The campaign calls for licensing of works and an opt-out for creators whose material could be used to train AI. It is backed by unions and industry groups, such as WGA, SAG-AFTRA and RIAA, and ran a full-page NYT ad. Dr. Moiya McTier, the campaign's senior advisor, says real innovation comes from collaboration and that licensing offers a path to mutual benefit. Disney previously signed a licensing deal with OpenAI for Sora; more studios remain cautious.

SpaceX to launch 25 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg, visible over Southern California

January 22, 2026, 3:36 AM EST. SpaceX plans to launch 25 Starlink satellites aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, targeting Wednesday for liftoff at 6:46 p.m. PT with possible delays due to weather or technical issues. The mission marks the 10th flight for the first-stage booster, which is expected to land on the Of Course I Still Love You drone ship in the Pacific after separation. The launch will be visible over Southern California skies, and SpaceX will webcast about five minutes before liftoff on SpaceX.com. SpaceX has carried out multiple Falcon 9 launches from Vandenberg as it expands the Starlink constellation delivering broadband service.

Apple's tie to TSMC weakens as Nvidia edges ahead, lifting chip costs

January 22, 2026, 3:32 AM EST. Apple's long-running tie to TSMC is under pressure as Nvidia rises to the top customer spot, according to Tim Culpan. Nvidia is a fabless designer-meaning it designs chips but outsources manufacturing-relying on TSMC for advanced nodes to power AI data centers. The shift could raise costs for Apple's iPhone, Mac and iPad processors and threaten access to the latest chips, including A-series and M-series lines. TSMC's capacity is increasingly crowded by AI workloads from rivals like Nvidia and AMD, leaving Apple vying for space. The Cupertino company historically won favorable pricing through scale; now analysts say it may need to bid more aggressively to preserve access to cutting-edge wafers.

Surveillance firms track smartphone users through advertising data, Le Monde reports

January 22, 2026, 3:30 AM EST. Le Monde reports that a niche of the advertising sector has grown into a tracking service for state security and law enforcement. About 15 firms, mostly based in Israel and founded by former intelligence or military personnel, offer advertising intelligence (Adint) services that promise to locate individuals with meter-level precision by pooling geolocation data from millions of phones. The raw material comes from ad marketplaces; data is resold by apps ranging from games to weather apps under apparently legitimate advertising purposes. For buyers, the service can translate scattered data points into movement patterns, raising concerns about privacy and oversight. The piece traces a decade-long arc from a 2017 tip about a geolocation tool to a mature, if controversial, industry that markets to intelligence agencies and others.

Blue Origin Reveals TeraWave LEO/MEO Constellation

January 22, 2026, 3:26 AM EST. Blue Origin on Wednesday unveiled TeraWave, a new LEO/MEO satellite constellation aimed at enterprise, data center, and government users. The plan calls for 5,280 LEO and 128 MEO satellites, all optically linked and capable of RF and optical connectivity in the Q/V-band, with speeds up to 144 Gbps on LEO links and up to 6 Tbps on MEO optical links. The company filed with the FCC, calling the system a logical progression into advanced communications infrastructure and noting potential competition with Amazon's Leo constellation. Ground infrastructure would include operations centers, gateway Earth stations, user terminals, and optical terminals. Blue Origin says the multi-orbit design enables ultra-high-throughput links to support high-demand workloads and mission-critical connectivity worldwide.

Leesburg police use AI to highlight suspect clothing in tobacco shop robbery

January 22, 2026, 3:22 AM EST. Leesburg, Va. police used artificial intelligence to sharpen a grainy surveillance image from a Market Street tobacco shop robbery, focusing on suspect clothing rather than the face. The department says the image crop excludes the suspect's face and that the enhanced render is not evidence in court; officers will rely on standard methods like door-to-door canvassing and footage review. The tweet noted the suspect wore a Ravens sweatshirt with a number five. Police say the AI tool, including ChatGPT, helped produce a clearer view of the clothing to prompt tips from the public. Investigators urge anyone with information to contact police. The department cautioned that the enhanced image is for identification and not a substitute for ongoing investigations.

China Becomes a Global EV Battery Hub as Firms Expand Overseas

January 22, 2026, 3:20 AM EST. China has moved from government-subsidized domestic electric vehicles (EV) output to building a global battery network. Firms such as BYD, CATL, Gotion High-Tech and Envision have built at least 68 factories abroad, part of a $45 billion push to cut logistics costs and broaden markets. Wired notes overseas batteries yield a 29% profit margin versus 23% at home. Rhodium Group's Armand Meyer says Chinese players are ready to win outside China and may outpace Western peers. The expansion faces scrutiny, as a CATL plant in Hungary prompted layoffs and environmental questions. EU tariffs talks could tilt the field; Canada is reopening to Chinese manufacturers. US sales appear unlikely soon, but the trend widens the global EV battery supply chain.

ARK Invest's Big Ideas 2026 sees Bitcoin at $800,000 and Nvidia faces growing competition

January 22, 2026, 3:12 AM EST. Cathie Wood's ARK Invest argues that Bitcoin is expanding into a broader market, with a potential market cap of about $28 trillion by 2030 and Bitcoin accounting for roughly 70% of that, implying a price near $800,000 per coin. The firm notes 2025 reshaped Bitcoin with smaller drawdowns, lower volatility and improved risk-adjusted returns, lifting it toward a perceived safe-haven role. ARK's baseline for cryptocurrency growth hinges on ongoing adoption, even as dollar-backed stablecoins rise. On Nvidia, ARK expects sustained AI infrastructure demand, but competition from AMD, Annapurna Labs, Google's TPU and others could pressure margins and encourage custom ASICs. Hyperscalers focus on total cost of ownership over raw performance, shaping the chip race.

Nvidia's N1X Arm PC chip may launch by Q1 2026, report says

January 22, 2026, 2:54 AM EST. Nvidia's long-awaited Arm-based PC chip, the N1X, may debut as early as the first quarter of 2026, per a Digitimes report picked up by Tom's Hardware. The note, citing shipping manifests, says notebooks running Windows on Arm (WoA), the Windows version for Arm-based PCs, will ship with the N1X in Q1, followed by three variants in Q2. A follow-on chip, codename N2, is planned for release in Q3. Nvidia has tied the N1X to its GB10 "Superchip" in the DGX Spark platform, but details on architecture and specs remain unclear. The article notes potential friction with software support, citing a need for a Windows on Arm build compatible with Nvidia's chip-akin to the current Windows on Snapdragon for Qualcomm's chips. Nvidia's latest cores may differ from Arm's standard designs, potentially affecting x86 emulation for existing PC games.

Fossil watches discounted up to 80% in Amazon Great Republic Day Sale

January 22, 2026, 2:52 AM EST. Amazon's Great Republic Day Sale offers Fossil watches at discounts reaching 80%, spanning analog models and Gen 6 smartwatches. The markdown covers stainless steel dials, polished straps, and designs that suit both minimalist office wear and casual everyday styling. Highlights include a classic black-dial steel watch, a blue-dial model with a durable stainless steel band, and a silver-dial women's piece with a soft grey strap. For tech enthusiasts, the Gen 6 smartwatch features fitness tracking, wellness metrics, and notifications, pairing Fossil design language with modern sensors. The sale runs for a limited time and ends in two days, with prices varying by retailer and stock availability.

Pokémon Go February 2026 Community Day: Date, Time, Spotlight Pokémon and Bonuses

January 22, 2026, 2:50 AM EST. Niantic's Pokémon Go Community Day for February 2026 runs Sunday, February 1, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. local time. The spotlight is Vulpix and Alolan Vulpix, with exclusive moves for their final evolutions and a slate of bonuses. Players will see Triple Catch XP, Double Catch Candy, and a higher chance of receiving XL Candy from catches for Trainers (level 31+). Lure Modules placed during the event extend to one hour, from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Local spawns will favor Vulpix forms at PokéStops with active Lures. The page also lists every previous Community Day and the special moves they offered, giving a rolling archive for collectors and raiders alike.

Blue Origin unveils TeraWave satellite network to rival Starlink and Leo

January 22, 2026, 2:48 AM EST. Blue Origin unveils a satellite internet venture called TeraWave, planning 5,400+ satellites to deliver global, low-latency data with speeds up to 6 terabits per second. The network targets data centres, businesses and governments, not consumer broadband, placing it alongside rival constellations from SpaceX's Starlink and Amazon's own Leo project. Starlink currently dominates the market with broader consumer services, while Leo has about 180 satellites and aims for 3,000+. Blue Origin expects first launches by end-2027. The announcement follows momentum for Bezos-linked space ventures, including a historic rocket booster landing and a high-profile crewed flight, though commentary on celebrity involvement sparked debate.

Tencent Cloud at Davos: Open ecosystems and model-agnostic AI to empower customers

January 22, 2026, 2:44 AM EST. At Davos, Tencent Cloud chief Dowson Tong says the real-world value of AI lies in open ecosystems that let customers choose from diverse, model-agnostic large models tailored to real-life needs. Tencent pursues a two-pronged strategy: develop its own capabilities while remaining open to global innovations, ensuring customers can pick the best model. Internally, Tencent tests this vision. Its AI coding assistant CodeBuddy is used by more than 12,000 engineers, cutting coding time by over 40% and generating about half of new code. The company is investing in its Hunyuan large model family, releasing 30+ models last year and highlighting MoE architecture in Hunyuan 2.0 with 406 billion total parameters. An open-source Hunyuan 3D model has more than 3 million downloads on Hugging Face, and Hunyuan powers over 900 Tencent business scenarios, including Weixin/WeChat and gaming.

Tesla ends free FSD transfer on March 31; how to qualify

January 22, 2026, 2:40 AM EST. Tesla says the free FSD transfer offer will end on March 31. In a post tied to an X update by influencer Sawyer Merritt, the automaker said customers must place a new vehicle order by March 31 to qualify for the free transfer. Deliveries can occur after the deadline and still count. Starting in April 2025, Tesla will allow customers who previously paid for FSD on an old vehicle to transfer the service to a new Tesla for free when upgrading. Separately, CEO Elon Musk signaled that FSD will move from an upfront $8,000 payment to a $99/month subscription. The move has spurred speculation about Musk's pay-package milestones, including a target of 10 million active FSD subscriptions.

Apple reportedly developing AI wearable pin to rival OpenAI hardware, report says

January 22, 2026, 2:38 AM EST. Apple is reportedly developing an AI wearable: a pin worn on clothing described as a thin, flat circular disc the size of an AirTag but slightly thicker. The Information says it would include two cameras (one standard, one wide-angle) and three microphones, a physical button, a speaker and a Fitbit-like charging strip on the back. The device could launch in 2027 with as many as 20 million units at release, in a bid to compete with OpenAI's expected hardware debut later this year. TechCrunch asked Apple for comment. The report notes a past parallel effort by Humane, whose AI pin failed after launch, underscoring market challenges for consumer AI wearables.

iOS 26 adoption lags as design and menu changes divide users

January 22, 2026, 2:34 AM EST. Adoption of iOS 26 trails other updates, data from StatCounter shows only 15.4% of iPhone users on iOS 26 in January 2026, well below last year's pace after iOS 18 (63% by the same point, per Cult of Mac). Users report ongoing issues after installation, including the Liquid Glass design that reduces readability due to semi-transparent elements and a blur when expanding UI elements; Apple has added options to reduce blur, but icon tinting remains controversial because it distorts app icons. Some users find the more streamlined menus slower to navigate, with examples like the Camera app's aspect-ratio control requiring sequential swipes rather than a single list. While some updates improve efficiency, the overall reception is mixed, contributing to slower upgrades.

Nvidia poised to soar in 2026 on AI infrastructure spending

January 22, 2026, 2:26 AM EST. Nvidia has posted three straight years of gains as demand for its AI chips drives the market. The company dominates as the supplier of GPUs powering critical AI tasks in data centers, a position enjoyed by cloud giants and new entrants alike. Earnings have grown, and investors have bid up the stock on AI leadership. The 2026 outlook rests on rising AI infrastructure spending, with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang forecasting a potential $4 trillion spend by decade's end. If data-center investment stays on pace and GPUs remain central, Nvidia could extend its rally. Valuations are lofty, underscoring a cautious tone about sustainability in a cycle rich with hype.

SDA awards first disposal contract to Starfish Space for deorbit of old satellites

January 22, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. Starfish Space won a $52.5 million contract from the Space Development Agency to provide disposal as a service for decommissioning satellites in low-Earth orbit. The plan centers on Starfish's Otter spacecraft docking with an SDA satellite, then pulling both to a lower altitude and letting the client deorbit; Otter can repeat the process multiple times-likely more than a handful, approaching about 10, per cofounder Trevor Bennett. The initial award covers at least one disposal, with options for more; the target is 2027 for launch. The move comes as orbital congestion grows and tens of thousands of satellites are planned, making traditional graveyard-orbit disposal less feasible and elevating the need to remove debris before natural decay.

Waymo under fire as Austin district cites continued illegal bus-pass incidents; Krafcik blasts Tesla safety; NHTSA probes

January 22, 2026, 2:18 AM EST. Waymo founder John Krafcik called Tesla's cameras-only Full Self-Driving approach 'myopic' as the safety debate over autonomous cars runs hotter. In Austin, Austin ISD says Waymo robotaxis continue to illegally pass stopped school buses, despite a November software update. The district cites at least five violations after that update and says it may pursue legal options, urging Waymo to suspend operations during school commute times. Waymo maintains updates were completed to address the issue. Separately, the NHTSA is reviewing a prior incident in Atlanta in which a Waymo vehicle passed a stopped bus. The incidents underscore ongoing questions about whether AVs meet safety promises in real-world conditions.

Snohomish County family sues Tesla, alleging public treated as 'guinea pigs' in self-driving tech

January 22, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. WOODINVILLE, Wash. – A Snohomish County family is suing Tesla after a crash involving autopilot technology killed their son, alleging the company misrepresented the capabilities of its self-driving cars. Nearly two years after Jeffrey Nissen Jr.'s death, the family says the company treated the public as guinea pigs by deploying inadequately tested self-driving cars on public roads. Investigators say the April 2024 crash along Highway 522 near Woodinville occurred when a Tesla in autopilot mode struck and killed the 28-year-old, who was riding a motorcycle. The lawsuit cites the NHTSA's tally of more than 8,000 incidents and notes a prior Florida jury verdict awarding $240 million to a family in an autopilot fatality case. The Nissen family seeks removal of the cars until they are 100% reliable.

SpaceX Falcon 9 set for sunset liftoff from Vandenberg with 25 Starlink satellites

January 22, 2026, 2:14 AM EST. SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket to lift off from Vandenberg Space Force Base on the Santa Barbara County coast, carrying 25 Starlink internet satellites into low-Earth orbit. The launch window runs 6:43 p.m. to 10:43 p.m. Pacific Time and is weather dependent. The first stage is expected to land on the droneship Of Course I Still Love You in the Pacific after separation. Residents in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties may hear one or more sonic booms. If visibility is favorable, the satellites may appear in a train shortly after sunset or before sunrise as they reflect sunlight. Use the FindStarlink tracker to spot upcoming passes.

Hallucinated citations flagged at NeurIPS as GPTZero probes AI-generated references

January 22, 2026, 1:58 AM EST. GPTZero examined 4,841 NeurIPS papers and found 100 hallucinated citations across 51 papers, which the startup says are fake. TechCrunch reported the numbers; NeurIPS told Fortune the core research remains valid even if a small fraction has incorrect references. The exercise is not statistically significant: with dozens of citations per paper, 100 fake items out of tens of thousands is effectively zero. Nevertheless, a fake citation undercuts the value of scholarly references and tests the assumption that peer review catches such errors. GPTZero says this shows how a surge in submissions can stress review pipelines, a concern echoed by a 2025 paper on the AI conference peer-review crisis. The broader takeaway: if leading researchers can misattribute sources via AI, what does this mean for broader LLM usage in research?

White House sets 25% tariffs on Nvidia and AMD sales in China

January 22, 2026, 1:50 AM EST. Washington set 25% tariffs on Nvidia and AMD products sold in China, a move officials said will cut into the two chipmakers' Chinese sales. The administration framed the tariffs as part of a broader effort to curb China's access to advanced semiconductors and related technologies. Nvidia and AMD have diversified revenue, but China remains a key market. The levy could raise costs for Chinese customers and invite retaliation, complicating supply chains for U.S.-listed chipmakers. No immediate comments from Nvidia or AMD were available. The policy widens the scope of U.S.-China tech frictions ahead of looming trade talks.

XAI engineer exits after podcast revelations about permits, data centers and AI agents

January 22, 2026, 1:44 AM EST. An engineer at Elon Musk's xAI left the company days after appearing on the Relentless podcast, where he described how the startup pursued temporary leases and "modify this ground temporarily" permits to build its Colossus data center in Memphis. Ghori said the land lease was technically short-term to speed permitting, a claim that aligns with earlier reports about methane turbines and disputed permits. He also described heavy use of AI agents in development, saying a single person now coordinates work across about 20 agents and warning that virtual staff can create confusion on reporting lines. The departure fuels questions about xAI's governance as observers note a broader context, including a cut in access to external AI models used for productivity.

IBM study finds quantum computing inevitable by 2030, but enterprises are unprepared

January 22, 2026, 1:36 AM EST. IBM's The Enterprise in 2030 study finds quantum computing is destined to reshape industry by decade's end, but a readiness gap leaves many firms unprepared. The survey of more than 2,000 senior executives across 33 geographies and 23 industries in late 2025 shows 59% expect quantum-enabled AI to transform their sector by 2030, yet only 27% anticipate any quantum computing use by that time. IBM calls this a strategic miscalculation, not a timing issue, warning that companies focused on AI risk missing a broader shift in computation. Quantum will be a complement to classical systems, embedded in hybrid workflows for problems like optimization, simulation and probabilistic analysis. Early use cases appear in drug discovery and financial optimization. Dr. Thomas Eckl of Bosch stresses that quantum must integrate with AI and classical compute in evolving workflows.

IBM study warns quantum computing inevitable, but enterprise readiness lags

January 22, 2026, 1:34 AM EST. IBM's Enterprise in 2030 study draws on more than 2,000 C-suite interviews across 33 geographies and 23 industries in late 2025. It finds quantum computing will reshape industry by 2030, but a readiness gap exists: 59% expect quantum-enabled AI to transform their sector, yet only 27% anticipate using quantum computing in any capacity. IBM labels this a strategic miscalculation, not a timing issue, warning that firms focused only on AI risk missing a broader shift in computation. Quantum will work as a complement to classical systems within hybrid workflows, targeting problems like optimization, simulation, and probabilistic analysis. The study calls quantum the fifth major force shaping the enterprise by 2030, with indirect, early impact and notable readiness challenges.

Engineer at Elon Musk's xAI departs after podcast revelations on permits and AI workers

January 22, 2026, 1:30 AM EST. Sulaiman Ghori, an engineer at Elon Musk's xAI, left the company days after appearing on the Relentless podcast, where he described internal and regulatory questions surrounding Colossus, the Memphis data center. He suggested xAI used temporary leases to speed permitting and build infrastructure, and that authorities allowed ground modifications typically used for events like carnivals. Colossus drew controversy for relying on at least 35 methane gas turbines the company reportedly lacked permits to operate; the EPA under the Trump administration deemed the turbines illegal and linked to air pollution. Ghori also described a heavy reliance on AI agents to rewrite core production APIs-"one person with like 20 agents"-which can cause confusion. The interview arrives amid reports that Anthropic cut xAI's access to Claude, hurting productivity.

Samsung Galaxy S26 leaks reveal color options and price points

January 22, 2026, 1:28 AM EST. Samsung's next flagship is again the target of leaks. A pair of reports outline the Galaxy S26's color options and price points. Prominent leaker Evan Blass posted on X a list of colors: Black, White, Silver, Shadow, Sky Blue, Cobalt Violet, Pink, and Gold. The palette sticks to classic tones and lacks the bold hue Apple used recently. A separate leak hints at pricing for the lineup, though Samsung has yet to confirm any details. The story draws on Mashable reporting and timing around an expected early 2026 launch.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra leaks sharpen on release date, Qi2 charging and Privacy Display

January 22, 2026, 1:26 AM EST. Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra leaks intensify as the launch nears, spanning color options, a Qi2-ready battery pack and a rumored Privacy Display. Six hues are aired: Black, White, Silver, Shadow, Sky Blue and Cobalt Violet, with images calling out a possible hero color. A German report describes a Samsung-branded 5000 mAh pack with a magnetic Qi2 charging ring, offering up to 15W wireless and 20W wired power and a built-in kickstand; price around €59.90 (~$70). Separately, the Privacy Display is expected to arrive with One UI 8.5, darkening the screen to deter side-snooping, per beta observations. The feature hinges on Samsung's new Flex Magic Pixel OLED panel. Samsung had signaled Qi2 support for 2025.

Samsung Galaxy S26 leaks reveal colors and prices

January 22, 2026, 1:24 AM EST. Samsung's next flagship, the Galaxy S26, is taking shape as leaks point to color options and price points. Prominent leaker Evan Blass posted on X a list of colors: Black, White, Silver Shadow, Sky Blue, Cobalt Violet, Pink Gold. The palette skirts bold hues; there's no orange-like shade seen with Apple's recent iPhone. A separate report also mentions price points for the lineup, though specifics weren't disclosed. The disclosures arrive ahead of Samsung's official reveal, underscoring how consumer expectations and a crowded market are guiding the S26's positioning. Mashable's Alex Perry notes the reporting highlights how color and pricing leaks can influence pre-launch interest.

3 AI Stocks to Buy and Hold for the Next Decade

January 22, 2026, 1:22 AM EST. AI stocks could extend gains for a decade, the article argues. Nvidia is described as the leading AI infrastructure provider, anchored by its CUDA software platform, NVLink interconnects, and its GPUs, CPUs, and DPUs that enable turnkey AI supercomputers. The stock trades at a forward P/E of about 24.5 and a PEG under 0.7, with sustained data-center demand underpinning the moat. Alphabet is framed as a vertical AI winner with its own Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) and the Gemini model, integrated across Google Search and Google Cloud via Vertex AI. Its fiber network and ongoing deals, including Wiz and Intersect, aim to bolster AI software and data-center capabilities, addressing energy bottlenecks.

Three AI stocks to buy and hold for the next decade

January 22, 2026, 1:20 AM EST. Three AI stocks to buy and hold for the next decade. Nvidia leads AI infrastructure, anchored by CUDA software and NVLink to fuse GPUs into a single system, with turnkey AI supercomputers and robust data-center demand. At a valuation, the stock trades around a forward P/E of 24.5 and a PEG under 0.7. Alphabet offers a vertical integration edge with TPUs powering Gemini and Google Cloud workloads, plus Vertex AI, a fiber network, and deals like Wiz and Intersect aimed at data-center energy and security. The thesis: persistent demand for AI tooling and infrastructure could keep these names as long-term winners over the next ten years.

Apple to revamp Siri into built-in AI chatbot Campos, Bloomberg reports

January 22, 2026, 1:18 AM EST. Apple plans to rebuild Siri as an embedded AI chatbot later this year, Bloomberg News reported. The project, code-named Campos, would be integrated across iPhone, iPad and Mac and would replace the current Siri interface. The revamp is part of Apple's bid to close the gap with rivals in AI after the 2024 Apple Intelligence rollout drew muted interest. The report says Campos will run a higher-end version of Google's Gemini models, powering Siri via a deal with Google, and operate as Apple Foundation Models version 11 internally. It will offer both voice and typing modes and is set to be a core feature in upcoming operating systems. Separately, The Information reported Apple is pursuing an AI-powered wearable pin with cameras; release possible in 2027.

Massive Galaxy S26 Ultra rumors surface: release date, Qi2 charging and Privacy Display

January 22, 2026, 1:12 AM EST. A wave of Galaxy S26 Ultra rumors swirled after a flurry of leaks this week. Leakers outline six color options-Black, White, Silver Shadow, Sky Blue, Cobalt Violet and Pink Gold-and say Samsung will feature hero colors in promotions. A WinFuture report details a Qi2 wireless charging pack with a magnetic ring, 5,000 mAh capacity, up to 15W wireless and up to 20W wired charging, and a built-in kickstand; price cited around €59.90. Samsung has previously signaled Qi2 readiness in existing accessories and, in early 2025, public confirmation of Qi2 support. Separately, the rumored Privacy Display will arrive with One UI 8.5, darkening the screen to deter side-glance snooping; a new Flex Magic Pixel OLED panel is tied to the feature.

Tesla Cybertruck sales plunge nearly 50% in 2025 as EV demand cools

January 22, 2026, 1:10 AM EST. Tesla's Cybertruck sales fell 48.1% in 2025 to 20,237 units, from 38,965 in 2024, per Cox Automotive data released Jan. 13. The broader U.S. EV market softened, with 1,275,714 electric cars sold in 2025 (about 8% of total U.S. auto sales) and a 2% year-over-year decline from 2024. Tesla's U.S. car deliveries totaled 589,160 in 2025, down 7% from 633,762 in 2024. Analysts point to near-term policy shifts, including the expiration of the $7,500 EV tax credit, and to the political dynamics around Elon Musk. A Yale University study estimates Musk's partisan effect reduced Tesla demand by 1-1.26 million vehicles between Oct 2022 and Apr 2025, while boosting other automakers' EV sales by 17-22%. Stephanie Valdez Streaty of Cox Automotive was quoted.

Amazon trims price on unlocked Galaxy Z Fold 7 by about $492; up to $1,000 with trade-ins

January 22, 2026, 1:08 AM EST. Amazon is cutting the price of the unlocked 512GB Galaxy Z Fold 7 by roughly $492, lowering the Jetblack model to $1,628.12 shipped. The mid-tier variant remains discounted from the $2,120 list price. Other colors, Blue Shadow and Silver Shadow, sit at about $1,769.99. Samsung's site shows all colors with $350 off, while the Jetblack option is cheaper at Amazon. Some buyers and IP addresses report as much as $600 in savings on select configurations, though that bonus is limited. For those who want to trade in, Samsung's site offers up to $1,000 in savings when flipping newer devices. Unlocked means usable with multiple carriers; trade-in turns old devices into credit.

Apple edges Samsung to top global smartphone shipments, Counterpoint says

January 22, 2026, 1:06 AM EST. Apple has overtaken Samsung to lead global smartphone shipments for the first time in years, according to Counterpoint Research. In full-year data, Apple captured about 20% of global phone shipments, while Samsung held around 19%. The gap is narrow, but analysts say the shift could signal a sustained recovery for Apple as it expands into the mid-range with lower-priced models. iPhone 17 helped drive the fourth quarter, delivering about 10% year-on-year growth versus Samsung's 5%. Counterpoint notes early demand in emerging markets like India and Southeast Asia, aided by tariff fears that spurred early replacements. Samsung still shipped more devices overall in 2025 than the prior year, but the top spot changed hands.

NVIDIA readies first consumer PC chips to challenge AMD and Intel

January 22, 2026, 1:04 AM EST. NVIDIA plans to bring its first consumer PC CPUs to market with N1 and N1X, challenging AMD and Intel. Digitimes says Windows devices using N1[X] will launch this quarter, by March. The N1X is reportedly based on the GB10 Superchip used in NVIDIA's DGX Spark workstation, pairing a 10+10 Arm CPU with 48 Blackwell shader modules for 6144 CUDA cores. Integrated graphics are limited by a 256-bit LPDDR5X memory bus, so gaming power trails a GeForce discrete GPU. HP's ZBook Ultra G1a resembles the concept. The N1X will use Arm cores and the same Windows version as Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite PCs, via a translation layer. Compatibility has improved since earlier Copilot+ PCs, but questions remain about performance and software support.

AI in retail accelerates as Nvidia calls for openness to scale

January 22, 2026, 12:52 AM EST. At NRF, Nvidia unveiled a trends report showing AI in retail shifting from pilots to execution. The survey of global leaders finds 58% actively deploying AI, up 16 points year over year; 91% are engaged, and 89% report AI-driven revenue growth, while 95% say AI reduced costs. Nearly all expect budgets to rise, with 92% planning higher AI spend next year. Use cases span consumer touchpoints and back office; e-commerce and marketing/advertising AI use rose from 57% to 61%. A key trend is agentic AI, with 47% using or evaluating it to boost speed, personalization and real-time decision-making. Nvidia frames openness as a scale lever, stressing interoperability across clouds and data centers and optimization of inference for open-source models.

Tesla Cybertruck sales plunge 48% in 2025, Cox Automotive data show

January 22, 2026, 12:32 AM EST. Tesla's Cybertruck sales declined nearly 50% in 2025, according to Cox Automotive. The automaker moved 20,237 Cybertrucks in 2025, down from 38,965 in 2024. Overall U.S. EV sales also fell, with 1,275,714 electric cars sold in 2025, about 8% of total U.S. auto volume, but down 2% from 2024. The drop coincided with policy shifts that ended the $7,500 federal tax credit for EV buyers. Analysts say CEO Elon Musk's political stances contributed to slower demand; a Yale study estimates a 'Musk partisan effect' reduced Tesla deliveries by up to 1.26 million between Oct 2022 and Apr 2025. Tesla cited near-term policy uncertainty in a Q3 investor presentation. The company did not immediately comment.

iOS 26.3 Beta 2: Incremental Tweaks in a Large Update

January 22, 2026, 12:26 AM EST. iOS 26.3 beta 2 has arrived with a lukewarm reception. Apple fixes some bugs and smooths performance, but it adds no major features. The update's file size is surprisingly variable, with reports ranging up to 12 GB across devices, a transparency gap Apple has not explained. New features are incremental: iPhone-to-Android data transfer is streamlined, lock screen customization gains separated weather and astronomy wallpapers, and notification forwarding removal is controversial. In beta 2, one feature from beta 1 was pulled. Performance remains steady but not transformative; minor bugs linger in keyboard and settings. Battery life shows little change. Apple's messaging around the size and changes remains guarded.

Samsung updates Good Guardians and modules with One UI 8.5 support

January 22, 2026, 12:24 AM EST. Samsung has updated its suite of Android apps to support One UI 8.5. After rolling out the One UI 8.5 beta (Android 16 QPR2) to the Galaxy S25 series, the company pushed compatibility updates to Good Guardians and its three modules – Battery Guardian, Memory Guardian, and Thermal Guardian. The new versions are 8.5.09 for Good Guardians and 8.5.17 for Battery Guardian and Memory Guardian, with Thermal Guardian at 8.5.09. The updates allow use on Galaxy devices running One UI 8.5 without issues. Users can update via the Galaxy Store by opening the menu (three lines), selecting Updates, then tapping Update all. Samsung is expected to release a stable One UI 8.5 for eligible devices soon after the Galaxy S26 launch.

Artemis II rocket arrives at launch pad for crewed Moon mission

January 22, 2026, 12:22 AM EST. NASA's Space Launch System and the Orion spacecraft have been moved to the launch pad at Cape Canaveral for Artemis II, the first crewed Moon mission since Apollo 17. The 322-foot rocket will travel by crawler over a 4-mile route, arriving at Launch Pad 39B after a roughly 12-hour journey. A wet dress rehearsal will occur no later than February 2, 2026, ahead of launch as early as February 6, 2026, with later targets in March or April. The crew comprises Americans Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian Jeremy Hansen. Artemis II will orbit Earth, then perform a translunar injection toward the Moon to test life-support and other systems before Artemis III, expected around 2028, which will aim to land astronauts on the Moon.

Ubisoft cancels Prince of Persia remake as it reorganizes into five Creative Houses

January 22, 2026, 12:20 AM EST. Ubisoft is restructuring to focus on five Creative Houses and big open worlds and live-service games. The changes, effective in April, include canceling six titles, among them the much-criticized remake of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time. Ubisoft says the project had potential but required more time and investment than could be responsibly committed, and it will continue to treat the Prince of Persia universe as important. The company also plans accelerated investment in player-facing Generative AI and is shifting resources to four other catalogues focused on shooters, immersive fantasy, and casual experiences. Ubisoft did not disclose the full list of canceled titles, including several unannounced projects, but says six games are scrapped while seven are delayed. The reorg consolidates studios under a new HQ, with operations reshaped around five creative groups.

Apple plans Siri AI chatbot ahead of WWDC, report says

January 22, 2026, 12:18 AM EST. Apple plans to turn Siri into a chatbot, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports. The Siri chatbot, internally codenamed Campos, would handle both voice and text inputs and debut with iOS 27, potentially taking center stage at June's WWDC. The move marks a shift from Craig Federighi's earlier stance that Siri should remain an integrated assistant rather than a chatbot, amid pressure from rival AI chatbots. Apple has faced AI delays and has tested competitors such as OpenAI and Anthropic, ultimately partnering with Google's Gemini. The report notes the company views the shift as a way to close the AI gap, even as OpenAI contemplates hardware plans led by Jony Ive. Bloomberg sources caution product timelines may shift.

SpaceX Falcon 9 launch may be visible in Phoenix around 7:45 p.m.

January 22, 2026, 12:16 AM EST. Phoenix residents may glimpse a Falcon 9 rocket tonight, lifting from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California around 7:45 p.m. Arizona time. The flight should be visible to the southeast from the Valley, with a bright balloon-shaped contrail trailing behind the rocket. Viewers can watch live on X, SpaceX's platform. The rocket is a reusable launcher, valued at about $69.75 million per launch, aiming to deploy 27 Starlink satellites to low Earth orbit. Starlink provides satellite internet to airlines and cruise lines and has supported connectivity during disasters. Times can shift due to weather; check SpaceX for updates.

AggieSat6 aims for 2026 launch from Vandenberg to boost space situational awareness

January 22, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. Texas A&M's Munnerlyn Astronomical Instrumentation Lab is fielding AggieSat6, a 6U CubeSat designed to improve space situational awareness with radio-frequency sensing. Built entirely by students under the AggieSat Lab in the University Nanosatellite Program (UNP), AGS6 is slated to launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base by spring 2026, alongside a satellite from Aegis Aerospace Inc. It features five antennas arranged as a star and on-board processing to compute azimuth, elevation and position, reducing tracking time compared with traditional ground-based sweeps. The mission aims to locate non-cooperative satellites, including from the Iridium constellation, and could eventually lessen reliance on ground stations. The project blends student initiative with research aims, and leaders describe the launch as turning a long-held dream into reality.

Broadcom Poised to Benefit as AI Infrastructure Spending Surges

January 22, 2026, 12:12 AM EST. Broadcom is positioned to benefit from surging AI infrastructure spending. Nvidia GPUs still dominate, but hyperscalers are increasingly turning to custom AI ASICs, and Broadcom supplies the building blocks and IP to bring those designs to life. The company previously helped Alphabet's TPUs and is slated to deliver about $21 billion worth of TPUs to Anthropic this year via Google Cloud deployment. Early customers include Meta, ByteDance, and OpenAI, underscoring Broadcom's central role in the AI-chip ecosystem. Citi analysts see AI revenue rising from roughly $20 billion last year to more than $100 billion by fiscal 2027, with VMware and non-AI units contributing to growth as AI demand expands.

Engineered magneto-sensitive fluorescent proteins enable room-temperature ODMR in living cells

January 22, 2026, 12:08 AM EST. Researchers directed evolution of MagLOV magneto-sensitive fluorescent proteins to tune their response to magnetic fields and radio frequencies. They report optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) in living bacterial cells at room temperature, with sufficient signal-to-noise for single-cell detection. The effects are explained by the radical-pair mechanism involving the protein backbone and a bound flavin cofactor. Using ODMR and fluorescence magnetic-field effects, the team demonstrates applications such as spatial localization of fluorescence signals with gradient fields (MRI using a genetically encoded probe), sensing of the molecular microenvironment, multiplexed bio-imaging, and lock-in detection. The work expands the toolkit of quantum-biological sensing, offering multiple modalities for engineered biological systems based on the quantum-mechanical properties of magneto-sensitive fluorescent proteins.

AI creator behind viral 'Harry Potter and the Christmas Trap' filmed from Kyiv bomb shelter

January 22, 2026, 12:04 AM EST. An AI-generated mashup combining Harry Potter, Deadpool, Home Alone's Kevin McCallister, John Wick and Vin Diesel's Toretto drew millions of views. The clip, 'Harry Potter and the Christmas Trap,' was created by Ukrainian filmmaker Andrii Daniels while sheltering from a missile attack in Kyiv. He spent about 40 hours on the two-part piece, distributing it across Instagram and other platforms, with nearly 5 million views on Instagram and about 17 million overall. The project underscores AI's growing ability to remix copyrighted characters and the industry's race to guard intellectual property as policy lags. Daniels, a non-English speaker, gave interviews by email; he says the work is a form of escape amid war.