Technology News 27.01.2026

Gemini 3 Flash adds Agentic Vision with code execution for visual reasoning

January 27, 2026, 11:52 PM EST. Gemini 3 Flash now supports agentic vision via an API with code execution, enabling the model to zoom and inspect high-resolution inputs. In Google AI Studio's demo app, developers can harness this to inspect patches and crop areas using generated Python code. PlanCheckSolver.com, a building-plan validator, says accuracy rose about 5% after enabling code execution to iteratively inspect roof edges and other sections. The model appends crops to its context window, grounding its reasoning to verify compliance with complex building codes. The demo video shows Gemini 3 Flash generating code to crop and analyze patches, then reintegrating results to support decisions. The approach scales from major products like the Gemini app to startups.

SpaceX resists BEAD payments tied to subscriber milestones

January 27, 2026, 11:50 PM EST. SpaceX argues BEAD broadband grants should not be disbursed based on subscriber milestones. The stance would avoid tying funds to churn or count targets, which proponents say could complicate deployment timelines. BEAD-federal money to expand broadband access-often sees states favor milestone-based disbursement. SpaceX's position signals a push for more flexible funding for Starlink expansion as it negotiates with regulators and grant administrators. The outcome could shape how satellite-based broadband is funded and measured.

OpenAI VP and CISO Matt Knight resigns; farewell note highlights security program and Aardvark

January 27, 2026, 11:46 PM EST. OpenAI's vice president and chief information security officer, Matt Knight, has announced his resignation after more than five years. Knight posted a note on X detailing his tenure since joining OpenAI in 2020 as the company's first security hire, when it was a small research lab launching GPT-3. He said the security program now protects a global platform used by hundreds of millions and helped define security for a new AI frontier. Knight cited leading security product development, including the launch of Aardvark, and expressed pride in earning user trust. He stressed that security is a team sport and thanked colleagues in the Security org, past and present. Knight leaves as OpenAI scales its models and protects increasingly complex AI systems; he says the work will continue in good hands.

Pinterest cuts about 700 jobs, shifts to AI amid restructuring

January 27, 2026, 11:44 PM EST. Pinterest plans to cut roughly 700 jobs, or just under 15% of its workforce, as it reshapes the company around AI. In a Tuesday filing, the San Francisco-based company said the layoffs are part of a broader plan to shift resources toward AI-focused roles, develop more AI-powered products, and adjust how it sells and markets services. Pinterest will also shrink its office footprint and expects to complete the restructuring by year-end, taking a one-time charge of $35 million to $45 million. The cuts come as revenue and user growth face pressure while the company rolls out features that use AI to enhance boards and shopping recommendations. Founder Ben Silbermann will move to executive chairman; Bill Ready becomes CEO. The trend echoes actions by other tech firms increasing AI spending.

Garmin Vivoactive 5 discounted to $195 on Amazon, undercutting Apple Watch prices

January 27, 2026, 11:34 PM EST. Amazon slashed the Garmin Vivoactive 5 by 35%, trimming the price to $195 from $300. The Ivory model leads the discount; Navy is $200 and Orchid $191. The watch features a bright AMOLED display, a lightweight body and more than 30 built-in GPS and indoor sports apps, including runs, cycling, swimming and wheelchair modes. Health tools include Body Battery, a sleep coach, HRV status and a morning recovery report. It supports on-watch emails and texts, music control, contactless payments and incident detection that shares your location after a fall. Garmin also offers adaptive 5K/10K/half-marathon training plans. The discounted Vivoactive 5 provides a lower-cost path to fitness tracking versus premium rivals.

Meta allowed minors access to sex-talking AI chatbots, lawsuit alleges

January 27, 2026, 11:32 PM EST. Internal Meta documents filed in a New Mexico court show Mark Zuckerberg approved letting minors access AI chatbots that safety staff warned could engage in sexual interactions. The state attorney general Raul Torrez sues Meta, saying the company failed to stem sexual material and propositions directed at children on Facebook and Instagram. Spokesman Andy Stone argued the filing cherry-picks documents. The materials show safety staff objecting to chatbots built for companionship with sexual or romantic scenarios involving U18 users. A February 2024 note relays Zuckerberg favoring fewer restrictions, framing a narrative of choice and non-censorship, while safety chiefs urged blocking adults from creating underage romantic AIs. Meta recently paused teen access while a new version is prepared. The case is set for trial next month.

Viral personal AI Moltbot (ex-Clawdbot) tests branding, security and open-source uptake

January 27, 2026, 11:28 PM EST. Moltbot, formerly Clawdbot, rose quickly after launch, billing itself as the 'AI that actually does things' by handling calendars, messages and travel check-ins. The project was created by Austrian developer Peter Steinberger (aka @steipete) as a personal tool and grew into a broader open-source effort. Steinberger says Moltbot derives from Clawd, a tool to manage his digital life; branding changed after Anthropic copyright concerns. Moltbot has drawn more than 44,200 GitHub stars, stirring anticipation in the developer community and even sparking a brief rally in Cloudflare stock on social buzz. Installing Moltbot remains for tech-savvy users amid security risks; the code is open for inspection, aiding vulnerability checks, though adoption stays early.

Apple and Google still host dozens of AI nudify apps, watchdog finds

January 27, 2026, 11:20 PM EST. Apple and Google are under pressure after a Tech Transparency Project investigation found AI nudify apps on both stores. The report tallies 55 such apps on Google Play Store and 47 on the Apple App Store, many rated for teens. It also notes access to Grok, the nonconsensual deepfake capable AI chatbot from xAI, remains available. The apps have been downloaded over 700 million times and earned more than $117 million in revenue, with platform fees cut. Apple says it removed 24 apps, but that falls short of the 47 identified by TTP; Google says it suspended several but did not provide a count. Michelle Kuppersmith of TTP says vetting policies are not keeping pace with harmful tools. The report comes amid controversy around Grok and sexualized images; X says it will act on violations.

Android Auto's Custom Assistant Shortcut lets you trigger programmable actions

January 27, 2026, 11:14 PM EST. Android Auto hides a programmable feature called the Custom Assistant Shortcut, available since early 2021 on any car with Android Auto. It runs actions from your phone rather than voice alone. With Gemini rolling out to replace the legacy Google Assistant, the shortcut gains more capability for complex routines. The option is labeled as a secret in settings, camouflaged beneath a main text label. Setups range from playing the latest podcast to navigating to a preferred gas station by a single command, for example Navigate to the nearest [branded gas station]. It can also trigger Google Home routines for home automation, such as opening the garage, disarming security, and turning on lights on arrival. To configure: Android Auto settings → Customize launcher → Add a shortcut → Select an Assistant action.

Samsung teases Galaxy S26 with 'Privacy display' to curb shoulder surfing

January 27, 2026, 11:12 PM EST. Samsung released teaser videos for the Galaxy S26, underscoring a new Privacy display that hides screen content from shoulder surfers. The feature appears built into the device at least for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, offering a customizable privacy layer that isn't all-or-nothing. Users can shield notifications, specific apps, or password entry while leaving other content visible. Samsung frames it as the result of five years of engineering and testing, aimed at balancing privacy with usability. The Galaxy S26 series is expected to launch in late February, though rumors point to Ultra exclusivity. Samsung did not name the feature in the teaser, but a prior screenshot surfaced the term Privacy display.

Family sues Tesla over Dallas fatal crash, seeks vehicle data

January 27, 2026, 11:10 PM EST. Dallas man Mark Taylor died after a Tesla struck him while he was taking out the trash in front of his home. His family has filed a civil lawsuit against Tesla, seeking the vehicle's data to determine whether its autopilot, forward-collision warning or emergency braking systems were engaged or failed. The suit follows police body-cam footage from June 2020 showing the crash and Taylor's coma-induced death after a traumatic brain injury. The family's attorney, Leon Russell, says crucial data may have been lost or shipped abroad. Russell contends Tesla's self-driving features should not operate in residential areas, though the company reportedly allowed it. Tesla did not respond to CBS News Texas' request for comment. Grace Taylor, Mark's daughter, says she hopes the case raises awareness of the limits of vehicle technology and brings justice.

Cisco CEO warns AI boom will yield winners and carnage

January 27, 2026, 11:08 PM EST. Cisco Systems chairman and CEO Chuck Robbins warned that the AI boom will produce winners and carnage. He told the BBC that AI could be "bigger than the internet" but that the current market resembles a bubble and some companies "won't make it." Cisco, a key provider of AI infrastructure, is central to the shift. Robbins noted jobs will be changed or eliminated in areas such as customer service, urging workers to embrace AI rather than fear it. He echoed concerns from finance and tech leaders like JPMorgan's Jamie Dimon and Alphabet's Sundar Pichai about possible money loss and irrational exuberance. Robbins drew a parallel with the 2000 dotcom crash, saying winners will emerge as applications and uses evolve, while some capital will not survive. He warned of cyber and safety risks, and the need to mitigate them.

Clawdbot creator says Anthropic forced name change

January 27, 2026, 11:06 PM EST. The founder of Clawdbot accuses Anthropic of forcing a name change during licensing talks. The claim circulated in online discussions; no independent corroboration or comment from Anthropic was provided by press time. The allegation underscores tensions around branding and intellectual property in AI projects. Reuters will seek reaction from Anthropic and the Clawdbot team. If confirmed, the move could affect branding for an emerging AI tool and raise questions about licensing leverage in the sector.

Digg relaunch opens to public to challenge Reddit, led by Rose and Ohanian

January 27, 2026, 11:04 PM EST. Digg has returned as a social news site, led by co-founders Kevin Rose and Alexis Ohanian. After a limited April 2025 test, the relaunch is now public, though labeled beta. The site mirrors Reddit's structure: users sign up, join communities, post links, and upvote or downvote content. Interface centers on a central feed, with featured posts and communities on the sides. Users can customize via My Feed and All Digg, choosing chronological or popularity sorting. To participate, sign up with an email and a username, optionally adding a profile. People can submit posts, engage in discussions, and bookmark or share items, as Digg aims to recapture the earlier audience with a familiar model.

Samsung preps 'Wide Fold' to counter iPhone Fold, targets 1 million units in 2026

January 27, 2026, 11:00 PM EST. Samsung is reportedly planning a wider foldable phone, dubbed the Wide Fold, to counter the iPhone Fold. A Korean report from ET News says Samsung has a production target of about one million units for 2026. The device would feature a 7.6-inch inner display with a 4:3 aspect ratio and a 5.4-inch outer screen, potentially improving video viewing. The move echoes earlier missteps with the Galaxy S25 Edge, and some argue Samsung may be rushing the launch ahead of the iPhone Fold's debut. The Galaxy S26 family may be weeks away, but the wider foldable could sit alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8. Details remain subject to change.

Chapel Hill teen's AI-driven robot arm earns national recognition at student hackathon

January 27, 2026, 10:58 PM EST. 16-year-old Emme McDonald, a senior at the North Carolina School of Sciences and Mathematics (NCSSM), teamed with Rosanna Gaboyana and Afia Ava for a national AI and robotics campaign led by Hack Club and AMD Gaming. Their project, named Armtender, used a mechanical arm powered by an AMD Ryzen AI processor and ran on the team's Ryzen AI laptop. The trio met at a Hack Club event and spent about a month refining the system. At the Silicon Valley Prototype hackathon in January, they demonstrated the arm serving drinks, underscoring collaboration and hands-on AI learning. McDonald said the team stayed up all night teaching the arm to pick up a soda can. More than 15,000 students signed up for the program.

Samsung aims to rival Apple's foldable iPhone with Wide Fold, targeting 1 million units

January 27, 2026, 10:56 PM EST. Samsung is planning a 1 million-unit run for its upcoming Wide Fold model, a direct rival to Apple's rumored foldable iPhone later this year. ETNews says the device will include a 7.6-inch foldable OLED display with a 4:3 aspect ratio when opened and a 5.4-inch cover screen. Apple reportedly aims for a fall launch with a similar 4:3 inner display and a 5.3-inch outer screen, expanding to a 7.7-inch unfolded panel. Ming-Chi Kuo forecasts Apple selling 8-10 million units by year's end if the launch proceeds in 2026. Samsung may increase output of the Wide Fold if demand supports it, while a separate Galaxy Z TriFold is tipped for about 200,000 units and a starting price of $2,899. The Wide Fold is expected alongside Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Flip 8 at the Q3 Unpacked event in July.

Tesla sued in Dallas over man's death amid questions about safety features

January 27, 2026, 10:48 PM EST. The family of a Dallas man has filed a lawsuit against Tesla alleging the company's vehicle safety features did not perform as advertised. The suit says the man was struck by one of the company's cars outside his home and died after suffering a traumatic brain injury in a 2020 crash. Attorneys say the safety systems failed to prevent the collision or limit injuries. The filing adds to ongoing scrutiny of how driver-assistance technologies operate in real-world conditions. Tesla did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Quest's Navigator becomes default UI as Horizon Feed sunsetting begins

January 27, 2026, 10:40 PM EST. Meta confirms Quest's Horizon OS is shifting to Navigator as the default landing experience with v85, while Horizon Feed will be sunsetting in VR. A Meta Community Manager posted on the company forum that Navigator will roll out later this year, starting in v85, with Horizon Feed phased out gradually. Navigator groups experiences, friends and settings in one overlay and keeps library, Quick Settings and Notifications accessible without full window shifts. The change follows past UI overhauls and Navigator refinements shown at Connect 2025. No firm v85 date was set after v83 began rolling out in November. Notably, Worlds destinations are moved to a new Worlds tab, and the app Library now shows interleaved rows, while you can pin up to 10 items.

Anthropic closes funding round above $10B at $350B valuation; could rise with Microsoft, Nvidia

January 27, 2026, 10:38 PM EST. Anthropic has closed its latest funding round above the initial $10 billion target, valuing the AI startup at $350 billion, CNBC reported on Tuesday. The round totals between $10 billion and $15 billion, per three people familiar with discussions. The total could grow if Microsoft and Nvidia contribute, though it was unclear whether they will participate or by how much. Coatue and GIC are leading the financing, with Sequoia Capital also taking part. The Financial Times first reported the oversubscribed round. Anthropic, founded in 2021 by former OpenAI executives including CEO Dario Amodei, is known for the Claude family of language models and the Claude Code coding tool. Amodei said earlier this month that Anthropic generated close to $10 billion in revenue last year.

AI and VR preserve Holocaust survivors' stories for future generations

January 27, 2026, 10:26 PM EST. On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, a technology project aims to keep survivors' voices alive. Testimony 360 uses AI and virtual reality to let students pose questions to a digital version of a survivor and walk through recreated locations from her past, including camps where she was imprisoned as a teenager. The project seeks to preserve firsthand testimonies long after the survivors are gone, offering an interactive way to study history. Researchers say the effort raises questions about ethics, accuracy, and accessibility, while educators see it as a compelling tool for memory and education.

Moto G17 leaks show three-color renders, €289 price in Eurozone

January 27, 2026, 10:24 PM EST. Leaked renders show the Moto G17 in three colors-Alaskan Blue, Evening Blue and pink-and Motorola's site confirms the device is on the way. The phone measures 165.67 x 75.98 x 8.17 mm, matching the G15 released in February 2025, and could carry a 6.72-inch display. Memory options include 8GB RAM with 256GB expandable storage, priced at €289 in the Eurozone. Details beyond that remain scarce. The G17 Power is expected to join the lineup with a larger battery, with a launch anticipated in the coming weeks. Leaks and official listings sketch a modest midrange upgrade path for Motorola.

DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo with RC 2 drops to $1,099, $500 off

January 27, 2026, 10:20 PM EST. DJI's Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo with RC 2 is on sale for $1,099, a $500 cut (about 31% off) on Amazon. The deal appears time-limited, with the savings likely to vanish in days. The drone targets beginners, offering obstacle avoidance and ActiveTrack 360 to automatically follow a subject. It remains light yet capable, featuring return-to-home and a bundle that adds three batteries plus spare parts for longer flights and easier repairs. Buyers are urged to act quickly to lock in the discount before the price reverts.

Anthropic CEO warns of risks posed by powerful AI, calls for regulation

January 27, 2026, 10:16 PM EST. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei warned that 'powerful' AI poses new risks and urged regulation. In his essay, The Adolescence of Technology: Confronting and Overcoming the Risks of Powerful A.I., he argues for guardrails, safety testing and international oversight. He spoke with NBC News about how policymakers can shape a framework to curb misuse and reduce unintended consequences as AI systems scale. The remarks reflect a broader push for standards on transparency, accountability and developer liability. The interview highlights the tension between rapid AI advances and the need for safeguards as lawmakers seek concrete risk controls.

Reincubate sues Apple over Continuity Camera, accusing patent infringement and deceit

January 27, 2026, 10:12 PM EST. Reincubate Ltd filed a U.S. lawsuit in the District of New Jersey on Tuesday, accusing Apple of patent infringement tied to its video processing patents and of deceit around the 2022 launch of Continuity Camera. The complaint targets how Apple enabled its own iPhone-as-webcam feature after exposing competing apps such as Camo. The case cites two patents, 12,335,323 and 11,924,258, both titled 'Devices, systems, and methods for video processing,' describing a three-part setup: a control device, a capture device, and a cooperation application. Reincubate alleges Apple sherlocked the market, including during the WWDC 2022 demo of macOS Ventura, and seeks an injunction on terminating its developer license.

NASA to push ahead with wet dress rehearsal for Artemis II moon mission

January 27, 2026, 10:10 PM EST. NASA plans a wet dress rehearsal for Artemis II, testing the SLS rocket and Orion capsule at Kennedy Space Center. Engineers will fuel the uncrewed stack with more than 700,000 gallons of cryogenic propellants – liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen – and run a simulated countdown toward launch. If all goes well, a launch could slip into the first week of February for a crewed mission around the Moon. The test could end with the SLS and Orion being wheeled back for tweaks, a replay of issues seen in Artemis I in 2022. Officials are also validating Orion's water system (higher than expected total organic carbon) and have updated the pad's emergency-exit baskets. Cold-weather prep could influence timing at the Florida site.

NexPhone dual-boots Linux and Windows 11; Brax open_slate expands de-Googled Android with Linux

January 27, 2026, 10:08 PM EST. Two hardware projects aim to put desktop-grade OSes in pockets. NexPhone from Nex ships a phone with Android 16 and a bundled Debian Linux VM, plus a Windows 11 for Arm64 dual-boot that lets users attach a screen, keyboard and mouse via the bundled USB-C hub for a pocket desktop. Shipping is slated for Q3 2026, with a $199 downpayment and $350 when devices ship. Brax Technologies counters with open_slate, a tablet offering dual-boot between de-Googled Android variants (e.g., iodeOS) and multiple native Linux distros (Ubuntu Touch, Debian, Yocto). Specs include two RAM/storage SKUs (8/128 GB and 16/256 GB), a user-replaceable battery and microSD up to 1 TB. Both projects show growing demand for flexible OS choices on mobile hardware.

Google's pricing missteps threaten Pixel momentum

January 27, 2026, 10:06 PM EST. Google's pricing choices for the Pixel line, especially the Pixel 8a, are drawing scrutiny. After months of price cuts on the Pixel 8, the company raised the tag back to $699 around the 8a reveal, fueling talk that there is never a good time to buy a Pixel. Competitors like the OnePlus 12R and Galaxy A35 offer midrange value, but Google's lineup lacks consistent carrier reach and flexible financing, limiting impact. The result: momentum built by earlier camera breakthroughs fizzles as price skepticism grows. Google's challenge now is to balance value with clear positioning-or risk more sales-damaging debates about pricing strategy and the long-term appeal of the Pixel brand.

SpaceX set to launch GPS III-9 satellite from Cape Canaveral Tuesday

January 27, 2026, 10:04 PM EST. SpaceX is scheduled to launch the GPS III-9 satellite on a Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 on Florida's Space Coast. The mission from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station could lift off with a window opening at 11:38 p.m. ET, with a backup opportunity at 11:34 p.m. on Wednesday. The launch marks another step in the U.S. Air Force's GPS modernization, aiming to improve positioning, navigation, and timing for military, civilian, and commercial users. The booster flying for the fifth time has previously supported the KF-01, IMAP, NROL-77 and a Starlink mission, and is expected to land on the "A Shortfall of Gravitas" droneship in the Atlantic.

Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold priced at $2,899 includes 45W charging brick in the box

January 27, 2026, 10:02 PM EST. Samsung will ship its Galaxy Z TriFold with a 45W charging brick in the box, the first high-end Samsung phone in years to include a charger. At $2,899, the TriFold underlines the premium price; even the $1,999 Galaxy Z Fold 7 has omitted a charger. Samsung says the inclusion doesn't justify the sticker price but adds practical value. The package also pairs six months of Google AI Pro and 2TB of cloud storage with purchase, plus a Carbon Shield Case. Orders open January 30 on Samsung's website. The company did not specify a shipping date beyond preorder timing.

NASA's Artemis II moon rocket nears critical Wet Dress Rehearsal fueling test at Kennedy Space Center

January 27, 2026, 9:58 PM EST. Teams at Kennedy Space Center are nearing a Wet Dress Rehearsal, a prelaunch drill that loads more than 700,000 pounds of super-cold propellants into NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft. If successful, the test could set up a launch as early as the five-day window opening Feb. 6 for Artemis II, a crewed lunar voyage. Officials would review data before giving a go-ahead to launch the four-person crew around the Moon and back. NASA has tentatively ruled out immediate changes, but could roll back to the Vehicle Assembly Building if issues arise. Troubles noted include a brake adjustment on the emergency evacuation baskets and higher than expected organic carbon in potable water tests, with weather constraints also in play.

NASA sets date for Artemis II fueling test

January 27, 2026, 9:54 PM EST. NASA has targeted a January 31 wet dress rehearsal to fuel the Artemis II SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft, with a launch now planned for early February. The test loads more than 700,000 gallons of cryogenic propellants, runs a full countdown, and practices safely removing propellant with no astronauts aboard. If issues arise, teams may roll the stack from Launch Pad 39B to the Vehicle Assembly Building for work, potentially delaying the mission to a February 6 launch. The exercise includes multiple runs, holds, and countdown resumes to liftoff. NASA also noted cold Florida weather preparations and reported that the emergency egress system has been fixed after a prior shortfall. Artemis II will carry four people: Cmdr. Gregory Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut mission specialist Jeremy Hansen.

HMD Global unveils first smartwatches HMD Watch X1 and P1

January 27, 2026, 9:52 PM EST. HMD Global unveiled its first smartwatches, the HMD Watch X1 and HMD Watch P1. The devices include a heart rate and SpO2 sensor and a broad set of health features, including over 700 activity modes, sleep tracking, and reminders to drink water or stand up. The accompanying smartphone app allows users to take on group challenges with friends, such as running a distance together. Both models lack a GPS module or an NFC chip. Pricing and availability were not disclosed. More information is available on the official product pages for the HMD Watch P1 and the HMD Watch X1. The launch, announced by HMD Global in a press release, marks the company's first wearable devices.

Anthropic CEO warns AI firms could pose the next big risk to humanity

January 27, 2026, 9:50 PM EST. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has published a 38-page essay warning that the next risk to humanity could come from the AI industry itself as large language models advance. He argues that without slower development or tighter controls, AI could surpass humans at essentially everything, triggering mass job losses, new terror threats, and the empowerment of authoritarian regimes. Leaders may resist restricting the technology because of its power and money, Amodei says, calling the moment a turbulent but inevitable rite of passage for humanity. The essay builds on the October 'Statement on Superintelligence,' signed by more than 100,000 people, and aims to jolt policymakers and the public, he told Axios.

BigBear.ai stock under pressure as profitability and dilution risk cloud AI play

January 27, 2026, 9:42 PM EST. BigBear.ai's stock has risen in 2026 but remains volatile and unprofitable. The company, whose business hinges on selling AI tools to businesses and government agencies, has posted losses every year since its SPAC merger. In late 2025, quarterly results included a one-off accounting gain that masked a deeper loss; otherwise revenue declined from late 2024 through mid-2025, with a small uptick in Q3. Investors face a dilution risk ahead of a February vote to authorize more shares. Analysts note that while giants like Alphabet, Microsoft, and Meta pour money into AI infrastructure, smaller pure-play firms must grow revenue and earnings to sustain gains. BigBear.ai's 2026 path will test whether it is a bubble or a recovery story.

Apple's AI Pin wearable eyed for 2027 launch as next Apple Intelligence interface

January 27, 2026, 9:40 PM EST. Apple is pursuing an AI-powered wearable pin, about the size of an AirTag, with dual cameras and three microphones, to serve as a future interface for Apple Intelligence. The Information reports a 2027 launch window. The device would include a speaker and a physical button to trigger the virtual assistant or capture images, and is described as more premium than an AirTag with metal and glass components. Development remains early, and rivals such as the Humane AI pin have faltered; Apple's own AI work is supported by a partnership with Google to embed Gemini AI into future Apple Foundation Models. Privacy remains a hurdle, since on-device AI models underpin Apple Intelligence and the pin is designed to pair with an iPhone rather than operate standalone.

Google AI Plus lands in US at $7.99; Google One 2 TB upgraded

January 27, 2026, 9:32 PM EST. Google expands its AI Plus subscription to the United States and 34 other countries, pricing it at $7.99 per month. The plan offers more access than AI Pro at $19.99 and includes 200 GB of Google One storage shared with up to five family members. Subscribers receive enhanced access to Gemini 3 Pro, Nano Banana Pro, and Deep Research, with limited access to Veo 3.1 Fast. In Flow, users gain more access to cinematic tools and receive 200 monthly AI credits for video generation. AI features extend to Gmail, Google Vids, and Workspace, with early access in Chrome and NotebookLM audio overviews. New US signups get 50% off for two months ($3.99). Existing Google One Premium 2 TB subscribers ($9.99) will automatically receive the benefits.

Nvidia set to top Apple as TSMC's largest customer in 2026, reshaping the chip sector

January 27, 2026, 9:26 PM EST. Nvidia is on track to become TSMC's largest customer by revenue in 2026, overtaking Apple. A shift toward high-performance computing (HPC) and AI accelerators drives demand, with Nvidia's GPUs and advanced packaging requiring more complex, capital-intensive wafer work than Apple's monolithic chips. The move signals a structural change in the chip sector away from mobile toward AI compute and data-center workloads. Apple remains a meaningful client, but TSMC's CAPEX and capacity needs are increasingly oriented toward Nvidia and similar customers. Investors should view the trend as a tilt toward AI compute and HPC, not a retreat by Apple.

Nvidia poised to overtake Apple as TSMC's largest customer in 2026

January 27, 2026, 9:16 PM EST. Nvidia is on track to surpass Apple as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.'s (TSMC) largest revenue customer in 2026, a shift that could reshape the chip sector, according to Ben Bajarin, CEO and principal analyst at Creative Strategies. Bajarin says the move mirrors a broader tilt to HPC and AI accelerators, with TSMC expanding CAPEX to serve Nvidia and others. Apple remains a major customer, but its monolithic chips for iPhones, Macs and iPads contrast with Nvidia's multi-step GPU manufacturing and advanced packaging. The change underscores a structural shift from mobile-centric wafer demand to high-performance computing and AI workloads, reshaping incentives and supply chains for the next several years.

Verizon updates device unlock policy for postpaid and prepaid

January 27, 2026, 9:10 PM EST. Verizon has updated its device unlock rules after an FCC waiver. The changes align the network's policies with its postpaid and prepaid brands, ending the old 60-day automatic unlock requirement. Postpaid policy: Devices bought directly from Verizon unlock automatically when paid in full, whether at purchase or after clearing a financing balance. There is no overall time limit. Lost or stolen devices stay locked until cleared, and then won't be re-locked. Prepaid policy: For devices bought from Verizon and used on prepaid, the lock lifts after 365 days of paid and active service, unless the device is stolen or fraudulently purchased. Note: This contrasts with T-Mobile (40 days) and AT&T (60 days) postures.

Google AI Plus lands in the US at $7.99 as Google One 2 TB upgrade expands

January 27, 2026, 9:04 PM EST. Google says its AI Plus subscription is expanding to 35 new countries, including the United States, with a $7.99/month price point, undercutting the AI Pro tier at $19.99/month. The plan bundles 200 GB of Google One storage shared with up to five family members and adds enhanced access across Google apps. In the Gemini app, users gain enhanced access to Gemini 3 Pro and related tools, with limited access to Veo 3.1 Fast; Flow AI filmmaking also offers more access and 200 monthly AI credits for Flow and Whisk. Subscribers see Gemini in Gmail, Google Vids, and other Workspace apps, plus early access in Chrome. New US subscribers can opt for 50% off for two months, and existing Google One Premium 2 TB members will automatically gain AI Plus benefits in days.

Verizon rolls out automatic device unlock for postpaid and prepaid plans

January 27, 2026, 8:58 PM EST. Verizon has updated its device unlock rules for postpaid and prepaid lines following an FCC waiver. Under the new policy, Verizon will automatically unlock devices that are paid in full, with no post-activation waiting period for postpaid customers. A device bought directly from the carrier will unlock once the balance is paid, and it will never be re-locked. Lost or stolen devices stay locked until cleared. For prepaid, the rule mirrors the carrier's value brands: devices must have 365 days of paid and active service before the lock is removed. After that milestone, the device unlocks automatically unless fraud is involved. The changes apply to devices on Verizon's network and contrast with other carriers that use time-based unlocks.

VetEvince: Evidence-Based AI for Veterinary Medicine in 2026

January 27, 2026, 8:56 PM EST. Veterinary AI startup VetEvince aims to anchor clinical decisions in evidence rather than outputs. The system links every recommendation to peer-reviewed studies, clinical trials, and established protocols, while surfacing reference trails for clinicians. Founder Michael Gerges says the goal is transparency: AI should prove its conclusions, not merely produce answers. Built to fit busy clinics, VetEvince integrates into workflows and preserves patient privacy by operating in encrypted environments, preventing external data leakage. The team, composed of veterinarians and technologists, curates each dataset and algorithm to reflect real-world practice. By centering evidence over algorithms, VetEvince seeks to elevate veterinary expertise and deliver actionable guidance at the point of care.

VetEvince anchors AI in veterinary medicine with evidence-based, transparent safeguards

January 27, 2026, 8:54 PM EST. Veterinary technology startup VetEvince aims to anchor AI in veterinary medicine with an emphasis on evidence over generic automation. Founded by clinicians and technologists, the system ties every response to peer-reviewed studies, clinical trials, and established protocols, offering references and actionable guidance for use during patient visits. The platform is designed to fit into busy clinic workflows and operates within encrypted environments to protect privacy while preventing external training data leakage. By being built by vets, for vets, VetEvince seeks to amplify clinician expertise rather than replace it, presenting decisions that can be traced to the underlying literature and real-world practice.

Apple Watch data shows AI health tool gaps as ChatGPT Health misreads Apple Health

January 27, 2026, 8:48 PM EST. Geoffrey A. Fowler of The Washington Post linked his Apple Health data-29 million steps and 6 million heart-rate measurements-to ChatGPT Health and asked for a cardiac-health grade. The bot gave an F, then swung to a C on repeated questions. Doctors doubted the result; the report misread data, notably treating VO2 max as precise when Apple calls it an estimate. Resting heart-rate shifts tied to a newer Apple Watch weren't true changes, yet the tool didn't account for that. It also forgot important details like age, gender and some recent blood tests across conversations. The exercise highlights reliability gaps in AI health guidance. If Apple pursues Health+, it could lead the field, but quality and consistency must improve.

Tesla tests Model Y defrost under heavy snow; 3h40m to melt 8 inches

January 27, 2026, 8:40 PM EST. Tesla owner runs a personal test of the Model Y Performance's Defrost feature, letting the car melt 8 inches of snow without manual scraping. The session began around 10:30 a.m. in Pennsylvania as a wintry storm dumped snow and ice. A phone tripod and time-lapse camera captured progress, with melting visible along the windshield near the A-pillar by the 20-minute mark. After about 3 hours and 40 minutes, the windshield and front glass were clear enough for driving, though the method was not efficiency-driven. The tester notes the Defrost function, accessible via the Tesla app, is handy for light ice buildup, but manual clearing remains quicker. Future tests may compare with manual pre-drive clearing.

Apple Watch hypertension alerts expand to 7 more countries, total 170 regions

January 27, 2026, 8:38 PM EST. Apple on Thursday expanded its Hypertension Notification feature for the Apple Watch to seven more countries, raising the global rollout to 170 regions. The feature, part of watchOS 26, analyzes data from the optical heart sensor over a 30-day window and notifies users when it detects consistent signs of hypertension. Apple has said the tool could alert over 1 million people with undiagnosed hypertension in the first year. The UAE rollout occurred last December, and the latest additions cover Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, and Turkey. The feature remains subject to regulatory approvals, including FDA clearance in some markets.

Brax Open_Slate unveils open-source Ubuntu/Android tablet with M.2 SSD support

January 27, 2026, 8:34 PM EST. Brax is marketing a tablet called Open_Slate that runs open-source firmware options. The device includes 2x USB Type-C ports, one with DisplayPort 1.4, plus a PCIe Gen 2 M.2 SSD socket and a microSD slot, enabling easy dual-boot between Ubuntu and Android. A user-replaceable battery is pitched as a sustainability and right-to-repair feature, contingent on parts availability. Crowdfunding has yet to begin, but the base model is listed at $399 in pre-orders; Brax has a history of shipping products, which may reassure early buyers. In a crowded market of Linux-friendly tablets-Purism Librem 11, Pine64 Pinetab2, and Intel-based options-Open_Slate will face strong competition, with timing uncertain.

Nothing Phone 4a Pro battery, charging details emerge in latest certification

January 27, 2026, 8:16 PM EST. Nothing's Phone 4a Pro has surfaced in a European safety listing and an Indian certification. The EPREL entry repeats model A069P and confirms a 5,080mAh battery with 50W charging. The listing also cites a battery endurance of about 63h 24min per cycle and a spec of up to 1,400 full charges before capacity drops below 80%. The device carries IP65 ingress protection and earned a C repairability grade and a C drop test rating. A BIS entry in India with the same model number adds to the confirmation. Earlier rumors point to a Snapdragon 7-series chip, 12GB RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. No official confirmation yet.

Prediction: Quantum Computing Stock Poised to Surge in 2026

January 27, 2026, 8:12 PM EST. Investors split on quantum-play names in 2025, with IonQ and D-Wave delivering gains while Quantum Computing stock underperformed. IonQ posted a 17% trailing year, Rigetti rose 75%, and D-Wave more than quadrupled. The lone laggard, Quantum Computing stock (QUBT), returned about 5%. The company aims to build room-temperature, low-power quantum machines, reducing reliance on cryogenic cooling. Revenue remains tiny: $136,000 in 2022; under $1 million annually, with losses near $68 million over the past year, though cash burn sits around $31.5 million. The firm carries about $555 million in cash, enough to fund operations for roughly 17 years at current burn. Analysts expect 2026 sales growth could approach 200%, lifting revenue toward $2.8 million, though profitability remains distant, possibly drawing momentum traders amid a potential short squeeze.

Google upgrades AI Overviews to Gemini 3 for more conversational AI

January 27, 2026, 7:56 PM EST. Google is upgrading AI Overviews, its AI-powered search feature, to Gemini 3 models. The update aims for a more conversational tone and broader coverage across search queries. Previously powered by Gemini 2.5, Gemini 3 offers better performance across metrics. Google notes there are multiple Gemini 3 versions; AI Overviews selects the appropriate model for each query. For simple searches with many valid sources, it may use Gemini 3 Flash to avoid heavy reasoning. For complex, long-tail questions, it can switch to Gemini 3 Pro, available to paying subscribers. The change expands the share of queries that receive an AI-powered overview at the top of results.

Apple seeds third betas of iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3 and watchOS 26.3 to public beta testers

January 27, 2026, 7:52 PM EST. Apple has released the third public betas of iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3 and watchOS 26.3 to testers, following a beta rollout to developers a day earlier. Public beta users can install via the Software Update settings after enrolling on Apple's beta site. The updates bring support for the second-generation AirTag, including Precision Finding on Apple Watch, and add a new iPhone-to-Android transfer tool during device setup-no separate app needed. The release also tweaks third-party wearables rules in the European Union. Apple is expected to ship the public releases of iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 by the end of January.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold priced at $2,900 with Jan. 30 US release

January 27, 2026, 7:50 PM EST. Samsung has announced the U.S. price and release date for the Galaxy Z TriFold. The foldable phone carries a $2,900 price tag and will go on sale in the United States on Jan. 30. It introduces a new foldable form factor with an inner display that folds twice, creating two creases. The device was shown to reporters with a hands-on at CES 2026 weeks earlier, underscoring Samsung's push into premium large-screen devices.

How to set up an Android tablet from Samsung, Lenovo, or OnePlus

January 27, 2026, 7:44 PM EST. Samantha Mangino walks readers through the Android tablet setup process, whether you're new to Android or refreshing an existing device. The guide covers powering on, connecting to Wi-Fi, signing in with a Google account, and adjusting privacy and notification settings. It applies across brands such as Samsung, Lenovo, and OnePlus, explaining that the core flow is similar regardless of maker. Tips include installing essential apps, enabling backups, and familiarizing with home screens and gesture navigation. The piece aims to ease transitions from iOS or other systems, with clear steps and quick checks to start using a new Android tablet.

Google on-device, two-stage method to extract user intent from UI actions

January 27, 2026, 7:38 PM EST. Google researchers publish a paper on extracting user intent from on-device interactions to guide autonomous agents, with no data sent to Google. The method splits the task into two stages: a device-level model summarizes each user step (Observation: screen state; Action: button taps, text input, links), then a second model ingests the summary sequence to infer the intent. The on-device processing preserves privacy while a separate core reportedly outperforms the base MLLM in data centers. The work builds on prior UI-based intent extraction from screenshots and text descriptions, but uses an improved prompt and a trajectory concept-each step a (Observation, Action) pair. Researchers say intents should be faithful, comprehensive, and relevant, while acknowledging grading remains hard due to subjective, noisy data.

Google Pixel Watch bands discounted on Amazon as prices drop across official line

January 27, 2026, 7:36 PM EST. Amazon is discounting a broad swath of Google's official Pixel Watch bands, with many options under $25. As of January 27, discounts cover even the latest releases, including the Indigo Active Sport Band, and a large portion of the catalog is cheaper than on the Google Store. Prices typically range from about $16 to $21 for 41mm variants, with some 45mm sizes also on sale. Coupons on product pages can shave a few more dollars. You can also still find first-gen Pixel Watch bands like the Chalk white 41mm Active Band discounted on Amazon and Best Buy. While third-party retailers offer many choices, Google's official bands are framed as higher quality and remain popular for expanding a collection.

Galaxy S26 rumors: base storage could move to 256GB, price whispered at $799

January 27, 2026, 7:34 PM EST. Rumors claim the Galaxy S26 base storage could start at 256GB instead of 128GB, with a possible 512GB option. The S26 Plus and Ultra storage may stay 256/512GB and 1TB, respectively. A $799 starting price has surfaced for the base model. A separate tipster suggests the base could gain a 4,300mAh battery, while the Plus and Ultra could keep or top current capacities. Launch is pegged for February as more leaks emerge. The report cites SuomiMobiili (via Android Headlines), TheGalox_, and Ahmed Qwaider; still, none of these are confirmed. If true, Samsung could offer more storage at a similar entry price, a pattern echoed in prior S-series launches.

Google AI Plus expands to 35 countries, including the United States

January 27, 2026, 7:32 PM EST. Google says Google AI Plus is now live in 35 new countries and territories, including the United States, expanding access to its suite of AI tools wherever Google AI plans operate. The rollout brings Gemini 3 Pro and Nano Banana Pro within the Gemini app, Flow's AI filmmaking features, NotebookLM for research and writing, and more. Subscribers get 200GB of storage and can share benefits with up to five family members. Existing Google One Premium 2TB users in these markets will automatically receive the full AI Plus benefits over the next days. In the United States, Google AI Plus costs $7.99/month; new subscribers can lock in a 50% discount for the first two months.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold launches in US at $2,899

January 27, 2026, 7:30 PM EST. Samsung has confirmed the Galaxy Z TriFold will go on sale in the United States on January 30, priced at $2,899. The foldable device uses two hinges to unfold into a 10-inch display and is 3.9mm thick at its thinnest point. It runs a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and features a 200-megapixel rear camera and AI-powered software. Availability is through Samsung Experience Stores and Samsung's website.

Google's January Pixel update disrupts Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on several Pixel models

January 27, 2026, 7:22 PM EST. Google is dealing with connectivity problems after rolling out the January 2026 Pixel update. Users report Wi-Fi and Bluetooth won't turn on on a range of Pixel phones, including the Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro/XL. Reboots and factory resets offer no relief. Some devices appear affected more than others, with widespread reports on Reddit and Google support forums. The outage risks leaving users with minimal mobile data access. A handful of users have found relief by sideloading the latest public build via ADB on a PC, but the process is technical and not practical for most. Google's Made by Google account acknowledged the problem but offered no timeline for a fix. The issue compounds a pattern of post-update problems seen in Pixel updates.

Amazon's 180 Leo satellites already bright, IAU flags disruption as plan expands to 3,000

January 27, 2026, 7:18 PM EST. Amazon's Leo constellation has 180 satellites in orbit out of an intended 3,236. A forthcoming IAU study says the devices are regularly bright enough to disrupt astronomical research. Across 1,938 observations, about 25% showed satellites distracting from the night-sky aesthetic. The IAU guidelines set a brightness limit for naked-eye visibility and a stricter research limit to protect professional astronomy. Leo launched its first hardware in 2025 and aims to have half the constellation deployed by July 30, 2026. The IAU's concern comes as Starlink expands, intensifying clutter in low Earth orbit and prompting calls for stronger safeguards.

Apple Siri settlement payouts begin; how to check eligibility

January 27, 2026, 7:08 PM EST. Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle a 2021 class-action accusing Siri of eavesdropping on user conversations. Payments began Jan. 23, with deposits appearing as Lopez v. Apple in bank accounts and on money apps. Class members could claim up to $20 per device, with up to five claims per person for five devices. The overall payout depends on the number of valid claims; social posts suggest average payments near $8 per device, with some recipients getting as much as $40 for five devices. Payments can be received by direct deposit or physical check. The lawsuit, Lopez v. Apple, alleges privacy violations from Siri activation, including third-party contractors listening to conversations. Apple says data shared is limited to improving Siri and dictation. The case was filed in 2021; the Guardian article is cited.

Apple's AirPods hit lowest price of the year as retailers launch deals

January 27, 2026, 7:04 PM EST. Apple's popular AirPods line is seeing its first price drop of the year as major retailers discount models ahead of spring. The discounts are appearing across online and brick-and-mortar stores, placing several versions at their lowest price this year, according to retailer listings and market trackers. Analysts say the move aims to clear inventory ahead of new product cycles while preserving the brand's affordability edge against rivals. Buyers can expect the standard AirPods, AirPods Pro, and other variants to vary by retailer, with bundling offers and extended warranty options often available. The deals come as other brands push promotions, creating a consumer-friendly window for shoppers.

Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus at Best Buy: 46% Off to Under $65

January 27, 2026, 7:00 PM EST. Deal overview: Best Buy is selling the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus at about 46% off, bringing the price to under $65. The offer targets casual tablet users who want basic streaming, web browsing and light apps. The device runs Fire OS, a custom Android-based system from Amazon, and provides access to Amazon services. The report is dated January 27, 2026. No quotes accompany the piece; it foregrounds price, retailer and use case over feature depth.

AI infrastructure cadence from Microsoft, Meta, Amazon and Alphabet tests Nvidia's outlook

January 27, 2026, 6:56 PM EST. Over the next weeks, Microsoft, Meta, Amazon and Alphabet outline AI infrastructure spend. Their capex plans, supply constraints and timelines set the mood for Nvidia and the broader AI buildout. The earnings cadence acts as a live test of the AI supply chain: higher projections lift sentiment, cautious language signals discipline and measured investment. Nvidia, reporting last among the Magnificent 7 on a late February date, will inherit whatever tone the hyperscalers leave behind. Investors read the guidance for capex and demand as a proxy for whether the AI push remains expansive or moderates. In short, the quarter helps answer: is the buildout still accelerating, and at what cost?

NVIDIA Vera CPUs face PCIe memory-address flaw with non-NVIDIA GPUs; NV-Kernels patch mitigates

January 27, 2026, 6:54 PM EST. NVIDIA's Vera CPUs, marketed as standalone SoCs for third parties, show a hardware erratum that can break compatibility with non-NVIDIA GPUs and accelerators. The fault stems from PCIe memory-mapped I/O address generation when writing MMIO with partial byte enable, worsened when regions use Arm's MT_NORMAL_NC ordering. Under these conditions, invalid addresses can disrupt DMA, cause data corruption, or trigger device failure during AI training and HPC tasks. NVIDIA's own GPUs avoid the issue thanks to co-design; for other vendors, NVIDIA ships hardware-specific Linux kernels (NV-Kernels) that convert MT_NORMAL_NC to Device-nGnRE at runtime, enforcing stricter ordering with some higher latency. Ampere Computing's Altra faces a similar problem, and Linux kernel workarounds mitigate it there, without reported performance degradation.

Foldable iPhone and OLED MacBook Pro could shrink iPad's role

January 27, 2026, 6:52 PM EST. Apple positions the iPad as a standalone computing device, with the iPad Pro and iPad Air offering high-end processing. Still, rumors of a foldable iPhone and touchscreen OLED MacBook Pro could lessen the need for a tablet if these devices deliver tablet-like experiences. Apple has long said it won't merge laptop and tablet lines, even when silicon and software converge. For users, a foldable iPhone priced around $2,400 or a MacBook Pro starting at $1,599-alongside an iPad starting at $349-could alter buying decisions. If the new devices meet consumer needs, the iPad's reach might shrink without disappearing overnight. The key questions: timing, real-world usability, and whether the foldable devices genuinely replace tablet use cases.

Intel's Panther Lake shows mixed results vs Apple M-series, reinforcing Apple silicon choice

January 27, 2026, 6:48 PM EST. Intel unveiled Panther Lake at CES 2026 with the Core Ultra X9 388H. PCWorld benchmarks on an Asus ZenBook Duo show mixed results versus the Apple M-series. In some tests the 388H lags on single-core, while the M4 and M3 trail the M5 on multi-core; the 388H edges the M5 in Geekbench Compute using OpenCL. Apple's Metal scores for M4 and M5 sit at 57,082 and 76,963, respectively. Power and battery life matter: Panther Lake is rated at 25W; the M5 at 15W. The ZenBook Duo's 99 Wh battery yielded about 22 hours; the MacBook Air about 18. The takeaway: Apple silicon's design remains advantageous in key areas.

Tesla to raise FSD subscription price as upgrades roll out

January 27, 2026, 6:46 PM EST. Tesla plans to raise the monthly price of Full Self-Driving (FSD) as upgrades expand the software's capabilities. Elon Musk said on X that the $99/month supervised FSD rate will rise with improvements, with a potential future shift to unsupervised riding and a massive value jump when users can operate the car on their phone-or even while asleep. Tesla's site now shows Traffic-Aware Cruise Control as the standard feature, with the full system offered only as a one-time purchase, a path that will end from February 14. Reports from Business Insider say the new price could top $100. The changes have sparked criticism among some fans; Tesla has not publicly responded.

Haida MagSafe Magnetic Filter Holder review for smartphone photography

January 27, 2026, 6:44 PM EST. Haida's MagSafe MagSafe Magnetic Filter Holder attaches to iPhone or other MagSafe phones via magnets and adds a swappable set of circular or rectangular filters. The all-metal construction and stiff hinges deliver sturdy operation, with a separate 1/4-20 mount for use as a mini tripod. The system supports stacking multiple filters but cannot act as a tripod and filter holder at the same time. Users must manually align filters in front of the lenses, or edge lighting may show through. Potential focus quirks arise with wide-angle lenses when using streak filters, and reflections can appear from light sources behind the camera due to gaps in sealing. The package includes Golden Streak, Blue Streak, X-Star, Mist Black 1/4, and CPL filters.

Oath Surgical teams with NVIDIA to boost AI in OathOS platform

January 27, 2026, 6:40 PM EST. Oath Surgical said it will partner with NVIDIA to boost the AI capabilities of its OathOS platform used across its US outpatient surgery network. NVIDIA's spatial AI infrastructure will enable real-time video and audio analysis and agentic workflows in the operating room, with insights spanning the care journey from referral to recovery. The initial focus is building foundational infrastructure for multi-modal clinical intelligence and AI-enabled surgery, bridging perioperative data to support real-time clinical and operational decision-making. Future phases will develop longitudinal models to measure surgeon performance, outcomes and facility operations. CEO Oliver Keown called OathOS the first multimodal ambient clinical intelligence platform for surgery. Oath has raised about $35 million to date, including a £24 million Series A; three AI-native centres in Portland, 175 surgeons, 20 affiliated ASCs. CMS's 2.6% rate increase in 2026 could accelerate outpatient shifts.

BYD starts Vietnam EV battery plant with Kim Long Motor

January 27, 2026, 6:34 PM EST. BYD has begun construction of a battery plant in Vietnam in partnership with Vietnamese automaker Kim Long Motor, with groundbreaking on January 27, 2026. The facility covers $130 million and targets a total capacity of 6 GWh annually across two phases. Phase one, on 4.4 hectares, will deliver 3 GWh/year of output for trucks, buses and other commercial vehicles and regional exports. Phase two will lift capacity to 6 GWh/year. Kim Long notes it has used BYD battery tech for 34 electric sleeper buses. BYD has launched models in Vietnam, including the Atto 3. Globally, BYD ranked second in EV battery installations in Jan-Nov 2025 with 175.2 GWh and a 16.7% market share per SNE Research.

SanDisk USB-C drive adds 1TB of storage to phones for $100 on Amazon

January 27, 2026, 6:26 PM EST. With many phones dropping microSD slots, a SanDisk USB-C drive offers a straightforward 1TB expansion. Plug in, transfer up to 150 MB/s, and manage files with SanDisk's Android app. The drive is listed at $100 on Amazon, down from $130, making it a compelling value for on-the-go storage. SanDisk also includes RescuePro Deluxe for data recovery. It isn't meant to stay attached all day, but it's ideal for quick backups and moving files between devices. While cloud storage remains an option, physical USB-C storage keeps data accessible and portable when you need it most. In short: if your device lacks expansion slots, this is one of the simplest paths to 1TB of extra space.

Tesla cuts Autopilot in U.S. and Canada; launches $99 FSD subscription as Musk warns price will rise

January 27, 2026, 6:20 PM EST. Tesla has made Autopilot standardly replaced by Traffic-Aware Cruise Control for new buys in the U.S. and Canada, with a $99-per-month Full Self-Driving (FSD) subscription and an $8,000 one-time FSD option available until Feb. 14. New owners still get a 30-day supervised FSD trial. Elon Musk reposted analyst Sawyer Merritt's note, warning the monthly FSD price will rise as the software gains capability, while he touted a future where unsupervised FSD could let a driver be on their phone or asleep. Critics point to Musk's history of ambitious timelines, from Level-5 autonomy to a $25,000 car, robotaxis, and other projects, with several deadlines pushed back to 2026 or later. Tesla remains a leading but controversial force in EVs and automated driving.

Reincubate sues Apple over Continuity Camera, alleging anticompetitive tactics and patent infringement

January 27, 2026, 6:18 PM EST. Reincubate, maker of Camo and Camo Studio, which lets iOS or Android phones serve as webcams for Mac or PC, has sued Apple for alleged antitrust conduct and patent infringement tied to Continuity Camera. Camo debuted in 2020; two years later Apple launched Continuity Camera, a feature limited to Apple devices. The lawsuit says Apple copied the technology and used control over iOS, macOS, and the App Store to undermine interoperable options and steer demand to its own ecosystem. Reincubate CEO Aidan Fitzpatrick says Apple initially supported Camo in beta but later built the feature into billions of devices while cutting off competition. He questions why Apple wouldn't tackle video holistically and notes competing webcams remain outsized on Windows devices. The suit centers on interoperability and the so called walled garden.

AST SpaceMobile risks missing 2026 satellite target as Blue Origin set for BlueBird 7

January 27, 2026, 6:16 PM EST. AST SpaceMobile's next satellite launch on Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket marks a new phase for its direct-to-device broadband constellation, but timing fuels doubts about meeting the target of 45 to 60 satellites by year-end 2026. Blue Origin will carry AST's BlueBird 7 into low Earth orbit no earlier than late February on the New Glenn-3 mission from Cape Canaveral. New Glenn can carry up to eight BlueBird satellites per flight, enabling multiple deployments this year. AST President Scott Wisniewski said the launch advances the mission toward commercial services in 2026. The company still aims for five orbital launches by end-Q1-2026 with a cadence of one to two months, but progress lags. As of Q1, only BlueBird 6 has launched; BlueBird 7 is imminent. Analysts like Tim Farrar remain skeptical.

iPhone 18 prices expected flat despite rising component costs, analyst says

January 27, 2026, 6:10 PM EST. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says Apple plans to keep the iPhone 18's starting price flat in H2 2026, despite higher LPDDR and A20 costs. He says Apple will absorb the extra costs and use market chaos to secure scarce TSMC capacity, then recoup margins later through services. The note cites TSMC capacity constraints driven by AI GPU demand. While some reports point to price hikes, Kuo's view is that Apple will avoid meaningful price increases this year, at least at launch, with potential pricing power returning in services later.

AI uncovers hundreds of cosmic anomalies in Hubble archive

January 27, 2026, 6:08 PM EST. Researchers used an AI tool, AnomalyMatch, to sift nearly 100 million Hubble Legacy Archive image cutouts. In about 2.5 days they flagged more than 1,300 objects with odd morphology, over 800 of which had not appeared in the literature. Most anomalies are galaxies in mergers or interactions; others are gravitational lenses, clumpy star-forming galaxies, jellyfish galaxies with gaseous tentacles, and edge-on protoplanetary disks in our galaxy. A handful defied existing classifications. The effort, led by David O'Ryan and Pablo Gómez of the ESA, trained the network to recognize unusual patterns, speeding analysis of archival data that now spans roughly 35 years. The team argues this approach helps manage the data deluge from Hubble and future surveys; findings appear in Astronomy & Astrophysics.

SpaceX aims to make Star Trek real, Musk says at Starbase

January 27, 2026, 5:58 PM EST. At SpaceX's Starbase in Texas, Elon Musk rolled out a broader mission than rockets, telling Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Pentagon leaders on the Arsenal of Freedom tour that SpaceX's purpose is to 'make Star Trek real.' He said Starbase, built 'out of nothing,' is a 'gigantic rocket manufacturing system' and even open to the public. Musk framed the ambition as more than Mars: 'We want to make Star Trek real' and 'Starfleet Academy real,' so science fiction becomes fact. He outlined a future of spaceships with many people traveling to the Moon, other planets, and eventually other star systems where we might meet aliens. He argued the goal is to go, explore, and push beyond current limits, echoing his line that humanity must become multiplanetary.

NASA water-deluge system dampens sound and heat before liftoff

January 27, 2026, 5:54 PM EST. Seconds before launch, NASA floods the flame trench with about 450,000 gallons of water to control sound, heat, and vibration. Acoustic pressures near the pad can exceed 200 decibels, a level that can damage avionics, fasteners and guidance systems. The deluge absorbs and scatters this energy, converting it to heat and steam rather than letting it rebound into the rocket. NASA says the system can cut effective sound by as much as 20 decibels, a crucial margin for safety and hardware. The water also cools the flame trench and surrounding structures, preventing fires and concrete spalling. The process is fully automated and tightly synchronized with engine start, releasing hundreds of thousands of gallons in under a minute as part of a long-running safeguard.

Android 16's haptic sliders draw scrutiny over unnecessary customization

January 27, 2026, 5:50 PM EST. Android 16 introduced haptic sliders-four intensity levels (off, low, medium, high). Critics argue the feature adds unnecessary customization with little practical benefit, noting the differences among the options are largely imperceptible in testing. Some say the native on/off toggle would have sufficed, reducing UI clutter without harming usability. The piece frames this as part of a broader wave of smartphone tweaks, even as it concedes other settings-like display refresh or navigation-can materially improve the user experience.

Android adds Failed Authentication Lock toggle, tightens lockout after failed attempts

January 27, 2026, 5:46 PM EST. Google's Android security update expands device theft protections with a dedicated toggle for Failed Authentication Lock and longer lockout waits after failed PIN, pattern or password attempts. The feature sits alongside Theft Detection Lock and Offline Device Lock and arrives on Pixel devices with Android 16+. Google says it will stop counting identical incorrect guesses toward the retry limit, making brute-force attacks harder and delivering roughly an order of magnitude stronger protection. In practice, a 15-minute attack could yield 7 guesses instead of 36, with delays ramping faster. Identity Check now covers all apps using the Biometric Prompt, including Google Password Manager and banking apps. On Android 10+, optional security questions enable Remote Lock; Brazil will ship Theft Detection Lock and Remote Lock by default on new devices. On-device AI detects snatch-and-run thefts.

iPhone Air 2 may pack ultra-thin Face ID to fit dual rear cameras

January 27, 2026, 5:44 PM EST. Apple is reportedly pursuing an ultra-thin Face ID module for the iPhone Air 2 to free space for both a main and ultrawide rear camera, according to a Weibo post by leaker Instant Digital. The change could address criticisms of the Air line's battery life and premium pricing. The original Air, at 5.64mm, shifted hardware to a raised camera plateau, leaving only a single camera and contributing to about 12 hours of battery life in tests, versus roughly 17 hours for the iPhone 17 series. Other leaks describe the Air 2 as a routine upgrade with minor changes, while some tie the thinner Face ID idea to future MacBooks. Apple has not confirmed specs or timing; fall launch rumors persist.

Google Wallet redesign could show more cards and passes, adds pinning feature

January 27, 2026, 5:40 PM EST. Android Authority spotted an in-development Google Wallet redesign for Android that would expose more cards and passes at a glance. The current UI places payment cards at the top and scrolls through loyalty items; the new design shifts to a two-column layout for passes, with a View more control to reveal additional items. A new Star button would let users pin up to four items for quick access, with others appearing behind the expanded area. The update was manually enabled in a test build, and there is no explicit rollout timeline. Google has not confirmed the change, and timing remains uncertain. If it launches, the update could ease management of multiple cards and passes.

Amazon offers smartwatch at 90% off plus a $36 mini chainsaw and 10 other deals

January 27, 2026, 5:38 PM EST. Amazon is promoting a budget smartwatch flagged as an Amazon's Choice, featuring built-in Alexa and health-tracking for sleep, steps, calories and heart rate. The device offers more than 100 sport modes, including yoga and cycling, and carries IP68 splash protection. The offer sits among other deals, including a mini chainsaw for $36 and 90% off the smartwatch, plus 10 additional discounts. Consumers have weighed in: over 1,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.4 stars. The product line emphasizes affordability and broad fitness tracking in a compact wearable, though buyers should verify compatibility and warranty terms before purchase.

Markets misprice AI, geopolitics and supply chains as forces collide

January 27, 2026, 5:30 PM EST. Markets still treat three powerful forces as separate: AI, geopolitics and critical minerals and energy inputs within supply chains. Analysts focus on adoption curves, tariffs, and cost forecasts, but the real story lies in how these forces collide. The article argues that AI accelerates growth expectations while geopolitics and resource constraints determine sequencing and feasibility, producing irreversibility and execution risk. The combined effect reshapes capital allocation, with early signals appearing upstream-data-center buildouts expanding before grid upgrades, or transformer manufacturing lagging trends. Investors underestimate how regulatory sequencing and strategic control shape outcomes as much as price signals. In practice, AI-driven demand is pushing capital into data centers and grid infrastructure, even as permitting and energy availability lag, illustrating a dynamic where risk and value land at the intersection of these forces.

Verizon updates device unlock policy to ditch 60-day auto unlock

January 27, 2026, 5:24 PM EST. Verizon has updated its device unlock policy, moving away from a 60-day automatic unlock. The changes, effective today, align with FCC reforms affecting carrier practices. Under the new rule, devices bought directly from Verizon will remain locked until fully paid-either at full retail price or when the financing balance is cleared. Lost or stolen devices stay locked until cleared. If a device was purchased with a Verizon Gift Card, the unlock is delayed by 35 days to verify funds. Verizon Prepaid follows a 365-day policy: after 365 days of paid and active service, the device is unlocked unless flagged as stolen or purchased fraudulently. Visible and other prepaid brands already shifted to 365 days. Verizon notes the lock is permanent once removed. These changes take effect today.

Google expands AI Plus plan to all markets, including the U.S., at about $8/month

January 27, 2026, 5:22 PM EST. Google says its cheaper Google AI Plus plan is now live across all markets where its AI plans operate, including the United States at $7.99 per month. The rollout adds 35 new countries and territories after earlier launches began in Indonesia last September. The plan bundles access to Gemini 3 Pro and Nano Banana Pro in the Gemini app, Flow's AI filmmaking tools, and NotebookLM for writing and research, plus 200GB storage and the ability to share benefits with up to five family members. Existing Google One Premium 2TB subscribers will gain access in the coming days. Google positions AI Plus as an affordable entry point to compete with OpenAI's ChatGPT Go at around $8/month. A 50% off introductory offer runs for the first two months.

Apple releases iOS 26.3 public beta 3 with privacy tweak and share sheet update

January 27, 2026, 5:20 PM EST. Apple has released iOS 26.3 public beta 3 for testers, after a two-week gap. The update remains light on new features, but two changes stand out. First, a new Limit precise location privacy setting is available, currently only on iPhones with a C1 or C1X modem (iPhone Air and iPhone 16e) and with limited carrier support. When enabled, it reduces the precision of location data shared with cellular networks, potentially showing only a neighborhood rather than a street address, without affecting signal quality. Second, the share sheet gains a small change: the bottom row button now reads View More with a down-facing arrow; tapping it toggles to View Less and moves the previously hidden fourth action to the top of the revealed list. Apple's beta cadence continues.

Galaxy S26 could challenge iPhone 17 as February Unpacked date looms

January 27, 2026, 5:16 PM EST. Four months in, the iPhone 17 remains a top-value flagship, aided by upgrades like a 120Hz display and a starting 256GB of storage. Still, the Galaxy S26 could steal the crown, with rumors pointing to a February 25 Unpacked reveal and bigger upgrades. A brighter 6.3-inch panel using an M14 OLED could reach about 2,600 nits, potentially eclipsing the iPhone's 1,505-nit peak in tests. A newer camera sensor is also expected, with a 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide and 10MP telephoto (3x), and a move to an ISOCELL GN sensor to improve low-light performance. Samsung may also bolster software and AI features. The S26 would still have an edge for long-distance shots via a dedicated telephoto, even as the author notes the iPhone 17 currently leads the S25 in low light.

Bezel-driven Snake on Galaxy Watch shows promising proof of concept

January 27, 2026, 5:12 PM EST. Reddit's Galaxy Watch community highlights an early build of a Snake-style game tailored for Galaxy Watch and Wear OS. Developer JackGrylls reimagines the arcade classic with a circular playfield that fits a smartwatch, and navigates the snake by rotating the physical bezel, keeping fingers clear of the screen. The build is not publicly released; it's a work in progress, with a GitHub-hosted version rumored. Some commenters note the snake's response is slightly slow; the creator says it stems from a game loop issue, not input lag, and a fix is in testing. Unlike many Wear OS titles that force a square grid on a round display, this concept blends nostalgia with hardware-appropriate design. No Play Store release yet, but the project signals a compelling bezel-driven control approach.

Google Pixel January 2026 update causes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues for some users

January 27, 2026, 5:10 PM EST. Several Google Pixel users are reporting Wi-Fi and Bluetooth problems after the January 2026 update released last week. Affected models include Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro XL and others. In forums on Google's site and Reddit, users say the update leaves devices unable to search networks or enable Bluetooth, with isolated reports of camera issues too. The issue appears not universal but has spread across a sizable subset of owners. Google has not publicly acknowledged a fix beyond advising contact with support. Typical troubleshooting – reboot, network reset, safe mode – has not reliably resolved the problem; one user said a factory reset helped after reinstalling the latest public build. Engineers are investigating a permanent fix.

Samsung Galaxy S26 may copy iPhone's Camera Control feature, photographers should watch

January 27, 2026, 5:08 PM EST. The Galaxy S26 could adopt a Camera Control button with swipe gestures, a feature tied to Apple's recent iPhone 16/17 lineup. An ex-Samsung supplier reportedly included the capability in a LinkedIn post describing work on a new camera control system for the Galaxy S26. The claim circulated on Android Authority; other sources have not substantiated it. Renders and shells released so far show no visible new buttons, suggesting the feature may be scrapped or saved for a future launch. If real, the tweak would mark another step in Android rivals adopting iPhone-style controls for quick shutter access. Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy S26 at the February 25 Galaxy Unpacked event, as photographers weigh whether this kind of hardware shortcut improves one-hand operation and rapid shooting.

NASA unveils Athena, its most powerful and efficient supercomputer

January 27, 2026, 5:06 PM EST. NASA unveils Athena, the agency's latest High-End Computing Capability system and its most powerful, efficient supercomputer. Housed in the Modular Supercomputing Facility at Ames Research Center in California, Athena delivers over 20 petaflops at peak, surpassing previous systems Aitken and Pleiades in power and efficiency. Rolled out in January to existing users after a beta period, it also trims compute utility costs. Access is open to NASA researchers and external scientists who can apply for time. Athena will support rocket-launch simulations, aircraft design, and large-scale AI model training, reflecting a hybrid environment that blends supercomputers with cloud tools under the HECC umbrella. The name honors the Greek goddess of wisdom.

Google expands Personal Intelligence to AI Mode in Search

January 27, 2026, 5:00 PM EST. Google is expanding Personal Intelligence to AI Mode in Search, allowing eligible AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers to securely connect Gmail and Google Photos. The feature uses your personal context across apps to deliver tailored search results that fit your life, reducing the need to re-explain preferences. In early testing with Gmail and Photos linked, users discovered new possibilities-one tester was prompted to a sneaker style after a purchase, leading to an instant buy. It can reference a hotel booking in Gmail and travel memories in Photos to suggest family-friendly itineraries, from museums to ice-cream parlors. Google emphasizes opt-in controls and security, presenting a personalized starting point rather than generic options.

Q4 2025 internet disruptions dominated by cable cuts and power outages, Cloudflare data shows

January 27, 2026, 4:56 PM EST. Cloudflare's Q4 2025 global traffic snapshot shows the internet was repeatedly knocked offline by cable cuts, power outages, weather, conflict and operational failures. Across 2025 there were more than 180 significant disruptions. The final quarter was dominated by telecommunications damage and electrical faults, with just one confirmed government-directed shutdown: Tanzania's traffic fell by over 90% during the October 29 election protests, with throttling rather than a clean shutdown. Cable cuts hit Haiti twice; the PEACE cable affected Pakistan; the West Africa Cable System disrupted Cameroon and neighbors. Electricity outages hit the Dominican Republic and Kenya; Russian drone strikes damaged Ukraine's Odesa energy infrastructure, cutting local traffic. Jamaica, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia faced weather and telecom disruptions; Vodafone UK and Fastweb reported DNS problems. Cloudflare added two internal incidents that temporarily disrupted sites and apps.

Mozilla builds AI 'rebel alliance' to challenge OpenAI, Anthropic

January 27, 2026, 4:54 PM EST. Mozilla is building what its president calls a rebel alliance to blunt the sway of OpenAI and Anthropic in AI. The nonprofit behind Firefox says it will deploy its roughly $1.4 billion in reserves to back mission-driven tech ventures and public-interest technologists focused on safety, governance and transparency. Mozilla Ventures, launched in 2022 with a $35 million initial commitment, is exploring additional fundraising to scale the effort. Surman describes the network as a loose coalition of startups, developers and researchers aimed at preserving openness and accountability in AI. The move comes as big players and policymakers press for guardrails, including criticisms from the Trump administration about perceived 'woke AI'.

Nvidia stock on sale ahead of Feb. 25 earnings as AI demand underpins outlook

January 27, 2026, 4:52 PM EST. Nvidia's stock trades at about 25x forward earnings ahead of its Feb. 25 report, a level some analysts call the cheapest in about three years. B. Riley's Art Hogan says the multiple could fall further after the earnings due to raised guidance, positioning Nvidia as a proxy for AI spend. Valuation has compressed in recent quarters, consistent with broader tech shifts. The stock has lagged the S&P 500 and Nasdaq year to date, even as fundamental bets around AI infrastructure build-out intensify. Tech rotation has lifted value sectors like healthcare and energy. CEO Jensen Huang, speaking at the World Economic Forum, touted a coming AI-driven infrastructure boom and rejected the notion of an AI bubble. Nvidia also pledged another $2 billion to CoreWeave; Citi's Atif Malik expects data-center demand to lift Nvidia and Broadcom.

HMD debuts Watch X1 and P1 as first solo-branded smartwatches

January 27, 2026, 4:50 PM EST. HMD has launched its first solo-branded smartwatches, the Watch X1 and Watch P1, rolling out in emerging markets. The pair emphasize basic health tracking and battery life over premium features. Both watches offer more than 700 sport modes, heart-rate monitoring, and sleep tracking, but lack GPS and NFC, meaning users must tether to a phone for outdoor activity tracking and payments. The Watch X1 is the premium model with a 1.43-inch circular AMOLED display (466×466, 600 nits), IP68, up to five days of battery life, and finishes including Gray Green, Black, Gray Metallic, and Silver Leather. The Watch P1 uses a 1.83-inch rectangular LCD (284×240, 550 nits), IP67, up to four days, in Black and Silver. P1 is on sale in Southeast Asia (Philippines) with India to follow; broader rollout undecided.

iPhone 18 Pro to get major Dynamic Island redesign, leak says

January 27, 2026, 4:42 PM EST. Updated Jan. 27 with more details on the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and 18 displays, new rumors say Apple will give the Dynamic Island a major redesign on the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Ice Universe reported the cutout width will shrink from 20.76 mm to 13.49 mm, about a 35% drop, possibly allowing the flood illuminator for Face ID to sit under the display. Separate leaks say the iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 may miss the change. Another report cites a brightness upgrade for the iPhone 18 panels, with a Chinese supplier BOE said to struggle to meet unprecedented brightness requirements. The iPhone 17 currently offers a Super Retina XDR display with 1000 nits typical brightness, 1600 nits HDR, and 3000 nits outdoors.

Google lets users follow up from AI Overviews as Gemini 3 becomes default in AI Mode

January 27, 2026, 4:32 PM EST. Google is expanding AI-driven features in Search by letting users ask follow-ups directly from AI Overviews-the AI-generated summaries at the top of search results. The change lets users enter a conversation with AI Mode for more complex questions, with Gemini 3 set as the default model globally. Google says this flow preserves context and links quick snapshots to deeper conversations, creating a seamless, single-flow experience. Robby Stein, VP of Product, cited the goal of turning Search into an interactive tool rather than a static results page. The update follows the rollout of Personal Intelligence in AI Mode, which taps Gmail and Google Photos to tailor responses, and comes after AI Overviews arrived in Gmail via the new AI Inbox. More enhancements are part of Google's push to blend search, email and photos under an integrated AI layer.

Apple, Jobs and the iPad timeline: secrecy, patents and shifting claims

January 27, 2026, 4:30 PM EST. An account of how Apple reshaped tablets, eclipsing rivals years before the 2010 iPad launch. The piece traces secrecy, public misfires, and later patent filings that pre-date the device's debut. It notes Steve Jobs' controversial statements, including dismissing the Kindle and denying plans for a tablet, while shareholders and rivals watched. A 2004 ornamental design patent lists 14 inventors, among them Jobs and Jony Ive, illustrating the device's form. The narrative references Walter Isaacson's biography, which ties the real decision to a dinner between Jobs, Gates and a Microsoft engineer, though the timing remains debated. The story shows how early talk, patent work, and changing priorities converged to produce a product that would redefine computing.

AI productivity gains depend on human expertise, study shows

January 27, 2026, 4:28 PM EST. Executives chase AI productivity gains, but a Stanford study shows workers using generative AI complete tasks three times faster yet still rely on human judgment for refinement. The author recounts using ChatGPT to generate a LinkedIn comic, then correcting 60-85% with Photoshop and human expertise. The claim that AI reduces headcount ignores that most gains occur in the initial draft; refinement and domain knowledge are the bottlenecks. Only about one-third of tasks see direct AI application. Leaders misread the spread of gains and overlook the need for domain expertise, specialized skills, and quality control. The piece introduces the idea of four zones of AI productivity, where the Launch phase (0%→60%) drives the early work, but progress depends on expertise to push outcomes toward excellence.

Apple unveils Black Unity Braided Solo Loop for Apple Watch to mark Black History Month

January 27, 2026, 4:24 PM EST. Apple unveiled a Black Unity Braided Solo Loop band for the Apple Watch to honor Black History Month. The in-house design was created with Black creatives and Apple partners and nods to the Pan-African flag colors. The band is made of recycled polyester and produced with precision-braiding machinery; Apple says it's soft to the touch and sweat- and water-resistant. It goes on sale today on Apple's website, with Apple Stores adding it by week's end. Priced at $99, the band comes in 42mm and 46mm sizes and fits Apple Watch Series 4 or later, including SE and Ultra. Apple has released similar bands for the occasion in the past.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (46mm) price drops to $399.99 on Amazon

January 27, 2026, 4:22 PM EST. Mashable reports the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (46mm) is at its lowest-ever price: $399.99 on Amazon, a $150 drop from the $549.99 list price. The deal is described as a last-chance opportunity and is current as of Jan. 27, 2026. Pricing and availability can change after publication. The article notes that all products featured are independently selected by editors and writers, and that Mashable may earn an affiliate commission on purchases via links. Readers should verify the current price before buying. The offer underlines the ongoing appeal of Samsung's wearable line during price promotions.

Two Cancelled Virtual Boy Titles to Join NSO in 2026, Including Zero Racers and D-Hopper

January 27, 2026, 4:20 PM EST. Nintendo has announced the launch lineup for the Virtual Boy – Nintendo Classics service on Nintendo Switch Online, starting 17 February 2026. Day one titles include Golf, Wario Land, and 3D Tetris. Later in 2026, two cancelled Virtual Boy games will make their first-ever appearance: Zero Racers and D-Hopper (Dragon Hopper). The trailer's closing sequence showed both titles, which will be playable on Switch Online. Zero Racers is a cancelled F-Zero spin-off that was reportedly finished before the Virtual Boy's failure; a former Nintendo of America localiser said it was done. D-Hopper is from Intelligent Systems and plays like a top-down quest with maze-like maps, a Zelda-like rescue theme. Nintendo did not specify exact release dates beyond "later in 2026."

Oath Surgical partners with Nvidia to power AI-native outpatient operating system

January 27, 2026, 4:16 PM EST. Oath Surgical, a San Francisco-based startup, said it will deploy Nvidia's AI infrastructure across its AI-native outpatient surgery centers to analyze real-time video and audio during procedures. The tie-up aims to deliver insights and efficiencies along the full care journey, the company said, though financial terms were not disclosed. Oath describes itself as the first vertically integrated system that combines AI software and tech-first surgical centers. It runs three outpatient centers in Portland and has partnerships with 20 affiliated centers nationwide. Since launching in May, it has raised about $35 million to build out OathOS, its proprietary operating system. CEO Oliver Keown notes the platform automates notes and fuses data from inside and outside the OR into a complete patient-care picture, enabling a value-based approach.

Apple patches ancient iOS versions to keep iMessage, FaceTime, other services working

January 27, 2026, 4:14 PM EST. Apple released security-only updates for long-retired iOS and iPadOS versions, including iOS 12.5.8 for iPhone 5S and iPhone 6; iOS 15.8.6 for iPhone 6S, iPhone 7, and iPad Air 2; and iOS 16.7.13 for iPhone 8 and iPhone X. The patches, per Apple's release notes, do not fix new vulnerabilities or add features. They simply refresh a security certificate to keep iMessage, FaceTime, and Apple account sign-in functioning past January 2027, when the certificate would expire. Apple generally ends support, but these exemptions extend basic service continuity on aging hardware.

Meta to report Q4 results as AI data-center spending weighs on profits

January 27, 2026, 4:12 PM EST. Meta Platforms will report Q4 earnings after the bell, with investors watching its AI data-center spending. The stock has fallen more than 12% since Q3 amid concerns about capital outlays. Meta raised 2025 capex guidance to about $70-$72 billion and signaled faster growth in 2026. For Q4, analysts expect $8.16 per share on $58.4 billion revenue, up from $8.02 and $48.4 billion a year earlier. Reality Labs is projected at $959 million in revenue but an operating loss near $5.9 billion. Rivals Amazon, Google, and Microsoft are also expanding data centers. Meta bought 49% of Scale AI for $14.3 billion and tapped Alexandr Wang as chief AI officer. Delays to Llama 4 and a possible shift to a proprietary model weigh on sentiment; job cuts aim to fund wearables and AI glasses. Regulators eye under-16 bans, with Australia enacting one.

Google adds follow-up questions to AI Overviews in Search

January 27, 2026, 4:10 PM EST. Google is rolling out an improvement to AI Overviews in Search, adding follow-up questions. The feature lets users extend a quick AI Overviews in Search by asking follow-up questions and receiving additional prompts within the results page. It aims to streamline information discovery and reduce switching between tabs. Google described the tool as a way to guide users deeper into a topic without retyping queries, with safety and accuracy controls in place. Availability will vary by region and user group in the coming weeks, with broader access as the company gathers feedback. The change underscores how AI can reshape how people interact with search results.

Apple refreshes AirTag with longer range, louder speaker; price unchanged

January 27, 2026, 4:08 PM EST. Apple announces an AirTag refresh with a longer locating range and a louder speaker to help users close in on misplaced items. The AirTag 2 is available now, priced at the same levels as the prior model: $29 for a single tag and $99 for a four-pack. As of this writing, the new model isn't listed on Amazon; buyers can order online from the Apple Store. The update keeps pricing steady for existing customers while strengthening the product's position in a crowded tracker market.

Rigetti Computing stock: is it a buy for 2026?

January 27, 2026, 3:40 PM EST. Quantum computing has drawn investor interest as researchers aim to solve problems beyond classical computers. Rigetti Computing (NASDAQ: RGTI) is a pure-play player focused on superconducting qubits, with vertical integration from chip design to cloud deployment. The company has launched 18 quantum systems since 2013 and sells access to its hardware, but remains far from profitability or a generally useful quantum computer. Valuation mirrors the risk: forward price-to-sales ratios for pure-play quantum names are high, making traditional checks unreliable. Investors must weigh the technology's potential, Rigetti's competitive position against peers, and their tolerance for long timelines and execution risk.

Amazfit Active Max review: long battery life, chunky design

January 27, 2026, 3:38 PM EST. Budget-friendly smartwatch with standout stamina. Amazfit Active Max touts a heavy-use 10-day battery and a super-bright display, delivering solid fitness tracking at a modest price. It excels in endurance and visibility, but its chunky, generic design lacks personality. The watch relies on a single-band GNSS, sacrificing the accuracy of higher-end rivals. Storage is up, yet software remains basic; the Zepp app is cluttered and unintuitive. At $169, it's competitive against mid-range wearables, but not against top-tier models. For those prioritizing battery life and display over aesthetics and premium features, the Active Max offers value if you can live with limited smart features.

Samsung Galaxy Z Trifold priced at $2,899 for 512GB; U.S. import costs loom

January 27, 2026, 3:34 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy Z Trifold goes on sale Friday at $2,899 for a 512GB model, underscoring its tablet-like ambitions. The foldable, first shown in Korea last year, is not sold in the U.S.; buyers who want one domestically must import, raising total costs beyond $2,900. Samsung teased the device about a year ago, a rapid journey from concept to shipping product with few direct rivals in the space. The Trifold represents a premium tier for folding form factors, even as the category remains niche. For early adopters, it fuses a phone and tablet in one device; for others, the price keeps it out of reach.

Virtuix Debuts on Nasdaq Amid Slowdown in Consumer VR Spending

January 27, 2026, 3:30 PM EST. Virtuix is going public, with its Class A ordinary shares set to begin trading on the Nasdaq Global Market under ticker VTIX. The IPO comes as investment in consumer VR and first-party content has cooled. Austin-based Virtuix pivoted from consumer ambitions to out-of-home VR attractions, later re-entering the market with the Omni One, now sold as a full system for $3,500 or a $2,600 BYO configuration. The company has raised more than $55 million from investors including Mark Cuban, Maveron and Scout Ventures, plus a new $11 million stake from Chicago Venture Partners and a $50 million equity line of credit to scale Omni One sales. CEO Jan Goetgeluk says the listing will fuel growth as the sector faces tighter funding and fewer platform-dollar flows from players like Meta.

Risotto raises $10 million seed to automate help-desk tickets with AI

January 27, 2026, 3:24 PM EST. Risotto raised a $10 million seed round led by Bonfire Ventures, with participants including 645 Ventures, YC's Y Combinator, Ritual Capital and Surgepoint Capital. The startup builds AI-powered automation to resolve help-desk tickets, sitting between ticketing systems like Jira and the internal tooling teams use to fix issues. The platform rests on a third-party foundation model, but its core is an orchestration layer-prompt libraries, eval suites and real-world examples that constrain the model. In pilot with payroll firm Gusto, Risotto automated about 60% of tickets. CEO Aron Solberg says most customers still handle tickets manually, but he sees a shift toward an interface dominated by an LLM, potentially via ChatGPT for Enterprise or Gemini integrations via MCP. It aims to tame complexity of enterprise IT and improve reliability.

Amazon's Echo Show 8 discounted in UK for limited time

January 27, 2026, 3:20 PM EST. Amazon cuts the price of its Echo Show 8 to £154.99 in the UK, part of a September refresh that added new Echo Show models and updated Echo devices. The 8.7-inch screen ships in graphite or glacier white and is mains-powered; it offers improved spatial audio and touch input. It supports music from Amazon Music, Spotify, Apple Music, and Deezer, and can stream video from Prime Video, Netflix and other services. A 13MP front camera enables video calls to Echo or Alexa app contacts. The device doubles as a smart-home hub, letting users control lights, blinds and cameras by voice. The camera and microphone can be disabled with a side button. Alexa+ isn't yet available in the UK.

Nvidia doubles stake in CoreWeave, signaling confidence in the neocloud

January 27, 2026, 3:10 PM EST. Nvidia nearly doubled its stake in CoreWeave to more than 47 million shares, about 11.5% of the neocloud operator, extending its $4.6 billion equity position. The move underscores Nvidia's strategic tie-up with CoreWeave, the largest GPU-as-a-service and AI-as-a-Service neocloud provider, and follows Nvidia's historic stock rally tied to AI. CoreWeave reported Q3 revenue of $1.36 billion, up 134% year over year, but posted a per-share loss of $0.22, an improvement of 88%. The company also carried a backlog of $55 billion. CEO Michael Intrator said demand for its platform exceeds capacity. CoreWeave plans capex that will run well above 2025 levels in 2026. The question for investors: should Nvidia's vote of confidence be a signal to buy CoreWeave or the broader AI cloud trend?

China's AI race hinges on causality over tokens, says Zhu

January 27, 2026, 3:06 PM EST. Zhu, an AI researcher cited by TIME, argues that solving tasks on a single data set does not yield true intelligence. He says modern systems learn at the token level and struggle to generalize. By contrast, he champions modeling causality-the underlying reasons behind choices-rather than surface correlations. His project TongTong sits in a virtual city where the AI has drives, motivations, and limited autonomy, enabling study of decision factors such as chair comfort, drafts, proximity to friends, and broader value chains. Zhu asserts that large language models miss the causal links that drive human choice. The discussion highlights a path for future AI that could transfer across tasks, countering token-only approaches used by many systems.

Nomad Overstock Sale: Up to 49% Off iPhone 17 Cases, MagSafe Stands and More

January 27, 2026, 3:04 PM EST. Nomad is running an overstock sale after its Stratos Band for Apple Watch. Discounts span iPhone 17 cases, MagSafe charging stations, iPad folios and more. All prices are auto-applied; no coupon codes needed, and free shipping is offered on orders over $50. Featured iPhone 17 cases include the Modern Case at $39 (about $10 off), the Modern Leather Case at $44 (about $11 off), and the Rugged Leather Case at $60 (about $15 off). Sections highlighted: iPhone 17 Cases, Charging, iPad Cases, and Apple Watch Bands. MacRumors is an affiliate partner. For more discounts, check the Apple Deals roundup and sign up for the Deals Newsletter.

Citi trains 175,000 employees to reinvent themselves with AI as tech reshapes roles

January 27, 2026, 3:00 PM EST. Citigroup will require AI training for about 175,000 staff across 80 locations, a move its CEO says helps workers weather a wave of layoffs and the coming shift in job roles. Jane Fraser told The Washington Post at Davos that AI will create new jobs and alter daily tasks, even as it eliminates some roles. The program focuses on advanced prompting to demystify the tools and boost workers' control over their careers. Citi estimates roughly half of new openings are filled by existing employees, balking at expensive external hires and leveraging a long-tenured workforce. Peter Fox notes the training adapts to knowledge level, with experts finishing in under 10 minutes and beginners in about 30. Citi reports millions of prompts generated by staff in the system.

Tesla robotaxis cheaper than Waymo, but longer waits persist in nascent market

January 27, 2026, 2:56 PM EST. Tesla's robotaxis are cheaper than Waymo and rival ride-hail prices, but they come with longer wait times, according to Obi's latest analysis. The study, covering 94,348 rides across Waymo, Tesla, Uber, and Lyft from late 2025 to early 2026, finds an average Tesla fare of $8.17 per ride in San Francisco, rarely above $10, and about $1.99 per kilometer, the lowest among the group. By contrast, Waymo averages $5.72 per kilometer and about 12.7-27.3% higher than Uber/Lyft on a per-ride basis as prices shift. Uber and Lyft prices have climbed, narrowing Waymo's advantage. Tesla's low prices are tempered by long wait times and a limited fleet in San Francisco, highlighting a nascent price war with caveats about data scope and service coverage.

Microsoft issues emergency out-of-band patch for Office zero-day CVE-2026-21509 exploited in attacks

January 27, 2026, 2:28 PM EST. Microsoft issued an out-of-band security patch for a high-severity Office vulnerability tracked as CVE-2026-21509, described as a security feature bypass. The CVSS score is 7.8. Exploitation requires a user to open a specially crafted Office file, bypassing OLE mitigations in Microsoft 365 and Office. The company notes the Preview Pane is not an attack vector. For Office 2021 and later, protection is provided via a service-side change and users must restart Office apps. Office 2016 and 2019 users should install updates: Office 2019 32-bit/64-bit 16.0.10417.20095; Office 2016 32-bit/64-bit 16.0.5539.1001. As mitigation, Microsoft recommends a Windows Registry change (back up, then add a new key under COM Compatibility with a DWORD value 400). Microsoft credited MSTIC, MSRC, and the Office Product Group Security Team for the discovery.

Samsung explored Galaxy S26 camera button with swipe gesture, not in final renders

January 27, 2026, 2:24 PM EST. An ex-Samsung supplier employee posted on LinkedIn that they helped develop a camera button with swipe gesture functionality for the upcoming Galaxy S26. The concept resembles Apple's Camera Control button, which uses a capacitive, haptic surface with swipe-to-zoom. Unofficial renders and major leaks have not shown the feature, suggesting Samsung explored it but dropped the idea. The last Samsung phone with a dedicated camera key was the 2014 Galaxy K Zoom, a camera-first Android device. Android Authority notes the evidence; Samsung has not confirmed. A poll accompanying the report shows voters split, with roughly half in favor and half opposed. Readers are invited to comment.

Stratospheric internet tests accelerate as HAPS aim to close the digital divide

January 27, 2026, 2:10 PM EST. Tests of high-altitude platforms are moving from concept to near-term demonstrations. About 2.2 billion people remain offline, a gap regulators and operators want to close with HAPS, including high-altitude airships and UAVs that beam internet from the stratosphere. Even with thousands of Starlink satellites and the OneWeb constellation, wide coverage remains costly. Google's ailing Loon project taught hard lessons about drift and economics; newer designs aim to fix those issues with steerable airships and fixed-wing UAVs. In the US, the FAA published guidance on integrating large numbers of HAPS into airspace. ACS data show 8 million US households offline; proponents say HAPS could cut costs versus fiber or base stations. Analysts remain cautious about pace, citing past slowdowns, while firms like Aalto HAPS push solar-powered UAVs with long-duration tests.

Nintendo reveals launch lineup for Switch Online Virtual Boy

January 27, 2026, 2:00 PM EST. Nintendo has confirmed the launch lineup for the Virtual Boy library on the Switch Online service for the February 17 rollout. Seven titles will be available at launch, with more to follow. The lineup includes Wario Land and 3-D Tetris, alongside Mario's Tennis, Jack Bros., and two previously unreleased games, Zero Racers and D(ragon)-Hopper. To play, users must own the Virtual Boy accessory for the console, either standard or cardboard. The service also includes rewind and save states, plus control remapping, with a screen color option planned for later in the year. Nintendo did not specify prices beyond noting a future update.

iPhone Fold price may not be the highest as Samsung TriFold tops near $2,900

January 27, 2026, 1:56 PM EST. Apple's iPhone Fold could reach about $2,500 per early expectations, but it won't top the market. Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold goes on sale in the US Jan. 30 at $2,899, putting it near $3,000 and near the price of the Vision Pro. The TriFold adds a third fold, expanding to a 10-inch display, and follows an earlier regional rollout. Samsung confirmed US availability via Samsung.com and Experience Stores. The first folding phone faced pre-order cancellations over durability; TriFold carries similar concerns. Reports suggest Samsung may not offer insurance via its Care+ program and that trade-ins may not apply, which could influence buyers. Our sister site 9to5Google has more details.

Yahoo Scout reimagines AI search as a web-first guide

January 27, 2026, 1:54 PM EST. Yahoo aims to blend traditional search with AI search in Scout, a web-first answer engine that sits between 10 blue links and a full AI assistant. Launched as a tab in Yahoo Search, a standalone web app, and a feature in the Yahoo Search mobile app, Scout offers AI summaries and direct answers while pointing users to sources. Yahoo calls Scout a guide to the web that filters out clickbait and AI 'slop.' Executives say Scout leverages Yahoo's massive content network-Sports, Finance, Weather, Mail and partnerships-to train and feed an AI across products. The plan competes with Google's reach, but Yahoo argues its edge is access to its own data and content. Early signs show Yahoo returning to its portal roots with AI.

Trump's AI imagery pushes boundaries as experts warn of eroding public trust

January 27, 2026, 1:52 PM EST. WASHINGTON/AP reports that the Trump administration has used AI-generated imagery on official channels, embracing cartoonish visuals and memes. A realistic edited image of civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong in tears after an arrest raised fresh alarms about blurring reality and fiction. The White House circulated the image after an original post, and officials defended the tactic, saying the memes will continue. Critics warn that manipulated media risks undermining public trust and normalizing false visuals. David Rand of Cornell calls the altered arrest image an attempt to shield the administration from criticism. Media strategists say online memes can engage a base, but may confuse broader audiences, complicating public discourse.

Tesla adds door-handle release to free stuck charge cables in latest software update

January 27, 2026, 1:50 PM EST. Tesla, in its release notes for the 2026.2.3 software update, has added a practical workaround for a stuck charging cable. Owners can now stop charging and release the cable by pulling and holding the rear left door handle for 3 seconds, provided the vehicle is unlocked or a recognized key is nearby. The note says the feature is a fallback when the unlatch button or charging adapter is jammed by ice, and that the touchscreen or app can still be used. The change follows years of attempts to address frozen charge ports, including 2018 latch updates and a targeted defrost option. Tesla shows cold-weather headaches, and the new method provides a physical backup outside the port, reducing the need to enter the car in gloves.

iOS 26.3 adds three customization options: wallpapers, location privacy and EU notification forwarding

January 27, 2026, 1:48 PM EST. Apple's upcoming iOS 26.3 will offer three new ways to tailor the iPhone. First, wallpapers get a split in Weather and Astronomy, with Weather options offering different widget and font presets and a new Black Unity wallpaper expected at launch. Second, a beta feature called limit precise location reduces the precision of data shared with cellular networks; it targets Apple-designed modems (C1/C1X) and a small set of carriers today. Emergency-location data remains unchanged. Third, EU users gain a notification-forwarding option as part of the update. The feature is part of broader privacy tweaks as Apple rolls out a common modem strategy across devices, with broader carrier support expected in coming years.

Circular economy could prevent EV battery minerals bottleneck, study finds

January 27, 2026, 1:46 PM EST. An Ellen MacArthur Foundation analysis argues a circular economy for the EV battery sector is essential to meet surging demand and avert a bottleneck in critical minerals supply. The report warns price volatility could slow EV uptake unless materials stay in use across multiple lives. It forecasts EVs may account for about 65%-75% of global car sales by 2050, with a typical EV containing more than 200 kg of critical minerals, much of it in the battery. Recommendations include designing batteries for circularity, avoiding disposal so they last and can be reused, and scaling service models that treat minerals as long-term assets through second-life use. It also calls for regional circular infrastructure to circulate materials efficiently and transparently. Weng says circularity is broader than recycling; Leyland notes current recycling remains limited by older fleets.

AirTag 2 debuts with improved Precision Finding, longer Bluetooth range, same size

January 27, 2026, 1:42 PM EST. Apple's AirTag 2 arrives with improved Precision Finding, a longer Bluetooth range, and a louder speaker. It keeps the same dimensions as the original, so it fits existing accessories, unlike some iPhone updates that force new cases. The main negatives: no built-in keyring hole and no audience-facing redesign; you'll still need an attachment accessory for bags or keys. There's also no new form factor, and no built-in Find My wallet, though a MagSafe wallet remains common. Some buyers will weigh whether the performance gains justify upgrading; Apple invites reader views in the comments.

Apple iOS 26.3 adds Limit Precise Location to curb carrier tracking

January 27, 2026, 1:36 PM EST. Apple unveils iOS 26.3 with a new Limit Precise Location toggle that narrows the location data shared with mobile networks. When enabled, carriers see only a rough neighborhood rather than a street-level fix. The feature works on devices with Apple's C1/C1X modems, including the iPhone Air, iPhone 16e, and cellular M5 iPad Pro. Activation steps: Settings > Cellular > Mobile Data Options > Limit Precise Location; restart required. Apple says the change does not affect signal quality, emergency location accuracy, or app location data via Location Services. Availability varies by carrier and region: Germany's Telekom; UK's EE and BT; US's Boost Mobile; Thailand's AIS and True. iOS 26.3 is in beta and will roll out publicly in coming weeks.

Apple releases iOS 26.2.1; January update prompts questions over CVEs

January 27, 2026, 1:26 PM EST. Apple released iOS 26.2.1 in January, making it the sole iPhone update this month. The company says the patch includes bug fixes and adds support for second-generation AirTag trackers, but Apple's support page shows no published CVE entries, suggesting no listed new security patches. Observers note the prior December release, iOS 26.2, fixed serious holes exploited by spyware. Some commentators questioned why Apple did not offer an iOS 18 alternative for reluctant upgraders. The update arrives six weeks after 26.2; if it carries fewer fixes, the move may be meant to nudge more owners to upgrade. To install, go to Settings → General → Software Update.

Tesla expands 3D Supercharger maps to Europe, adds live occupancy data

January 27, 2026, 1:22 PM EST. Tesla is expanding its 3D Supercharger site maps from the 2025 Holiday Update to Europe, adding at least two new Belgian locations in Brugge and Heusden-Zolder. The feature pairs a precise site layout with live data to show which spots are occupied and which model is charging. The 3D views identify charger positions, parking relations, and accessibility such as handicap- and trailer-friendly stalls. In live mode, the maps display a 3D model of the vehicle; non-Tesla EVs appear as a generic model. Access to the 3D models is limited to vehicles with AMD Ryzen infotainment units, but the maps remain viewable via maps searches.

Apple's AI progress raises key questions ahead of Q1 earnings

January 27, 2026, 1:08 PM EST. Apple's AI push is prompting questions before its Q1 results. The discussion centers on how to monetize AI and how deeply Gemini will integrate with Siri to control apps, book flights, or reserve tables. Apple has partnered with Google while using another provider's technology, raising questions about roadmap and architecture. Analysts want to know which AI features will ship, how they will drive a hardware upgrade cycle, and whether users will pay for advanced capabilities. Consumer surveys suggest willingness to pay is limited, but deeper integration could boost ecosystem stickiness and iPhone sales. The core issue: can Apple balance practical AI tooling with monetization while maintaining user loyalty across devices.

Brit repurposes UK telephone wiring to deliver gigabit internet across vintage home

January 27, 2026, 12:48 PM EST. A British DIYer has repurposed an old home's telephone wiring into a gigabit Ethernet network, highlighting a practical in-home upgrade. He uses a GIGA Copper G4201TM modem that employs G.hn modulation to split the signal into sub-carriers across a wide frequency band. The setup links a router via RJ45 to the modem, while an RJ11 cable connects the wall socket. Because UK homes typically daisy-chain phone lines with a BT631A jack, the device effectively bridges the network to create a star-like topology without rewiring. Previously, he relied on powerline adapters, which suffered latency and noise. The system runs Cat5 cabling through walls, with the phone port acting as a bridge to rooms needing wired speeds. Tests on a smartphone show near-gigabit performance; the details are chronicled on The HFT Guy blog.

Fundrise debuts RealAI to bring high-level CRE analysis to the public

January 27, 2026, 12:46 PM EST. Fundrise on Tuesday unveiled RealAI, an AI platform aimed at single- and multifamily real estate professionals and individual investors. The tool promises instant access to high-level market intelligence-neighborhood income, migration trends, multifamily comps and rents-down to individual properties. CEO Ben Miller says RealAI goes beyond generic AI like ChatGPT and relies on a proprietary database of about 3.5 trillion real estate data points. Data is drawn from public records, private databases and, in some cases, social sources about residents. RealAI is free for the first 12 uses; afterwards, a standard plan costs $69 per month. Miller expects expansion to other CRE sectors within six months.

Lenovo A100 all-in-one drops 40% to $600 on Amazon with Windows 11 Pro and bundled accessories

January 27, 2026, 12:40 PM EST. Amazon is offering a Lenovo A100 all-in-one desktop at a 40% discount, dropping from $1,000 to $600. The deal bundles a wired keyboard, mouse, cleaning kit, a docking station, and a 128GB external drive. The PC uses an Intel N100 with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, handling everyday tasks and multitasking. Its 23.8-inch Full HD IPS display delivers sharp visuals, and Windows 11 Pro comes pre-installed. The setup aims for a complete, budget-friendly workstation right out of the box. The offer appears time-limited, so shoppers should act quickly before stock runs dry.

Nvidia unveils Remix Logic to boost modding of classic games

January 27, 2026, 12:36 PM EST. Nvidia on Monday rolled out Remix Logic, the latest RTX Remix update that lets modders inject dynamic graphics into older titles. The tool reduces the need for source code or engine access, enabling creators to tweak weather systems and add new gameplay systems in classic games. Nvidia says the feature is available today through its desktop app. The update broadens modding by letting creators apply visual effects and gameplay tweaks without deep reverse engineering, helping revive aging titles for modern players. Officials note compatibility and safety checks to curb abuse, while developers welcome the potential to extend the lifespans of legacy games with richer environments.

Stanford researchers use AI to analyze police bias in body-worn footage

January 27, 2026, 12:18 PM EST. Stanford's SPARQ unit is applying AI to hundreds of hours of police body-worn footage to identify language patterns that accompany escalated stops of Black drivers. Eberhardt says the data show a two-part signature: an early, unapportioned order and a lack of initial explanation for the stop. When stops involve white drivers, officers more often express concern for welfare and state the reason for the stop upfront. The work, conducted with Oakland Police Department training modules, aims to measure effectiveness of policies over time and at scale. California's 2024 law requiring officers to state the reason for a stop is now under study. The goal is broad, systemic insights rather than judging individual officers, to guide departments and communities.

Tech's massive AI spend under scrutiny ahead of earnings

January 27, 2026, 11:02 AM EST. Apple, Meta Platforms, Microsoft and Tesla report earnings this week as AI infrastructure outlays in 2025 roll into 2026. Analysts estimate the four hyperscalers will lift capital expenditures to over $470 billion this year, up from about $350 billion in 2025, per FactSet. Executives are pressed to show when those investments turn profitable as AI deals accelerate. Meta's forecast increase spooked investors, though executives say demand for models and services remains insatiable. Alphabet and Amazon follow next week. OpenAI's commitments have climbed to about $1.4 trillion, with multibillion-dollar deals with Nvidia, Broadcom, Oracle, Amazon and Google, even as it reduces reliance on Microsoft. Investors seek signs that higher spend translates into returns rather than just broader AI bubble concerns.

AI mirrors reshape self-image for blind users, but risk inaccuracies

January 27, 2026, 10:50 AM EST. AI mirrors are changing how blind people interpret images, offering real-time descriptions that can boost independence but also raise issues. Critics warn that when AI acts as our eyes, it may describe things that don't exist, a phenomenon known as hallucinations. Experts like Edwards note that descriptions can be flattering yet push users toward changing features; Mahadevan says accuracy has improved but remains imperfect as models still invent details. For a blind user like Joaquín Valentinuzzi, relying on AI to pick dating-profile photos sometimes altered hair color or misread expressions, underscoring risks to self-image when people trust these tools for self-knowledge. While proponents like Envision promote optimism, the technology still requires safeguards and human oversight.

Europe's MTG-Sounder shares first images at Brussels conference

January 27, 2026, 10:44 AM EST. At the European Space Conference in Brussels, the Meteosat Third Generation-Sounder (MTG-S) shared its first images, demonstrating how the mission will improve European and northern African weather forecasts. The full-disk view comes from a geostationary orbit about 36,000 km above Earth, captured by the satellite's Infrared Sounder instrument. In the temperature image, the long-wave infrared channel shows land and cloud-top temps; warm continents appear in dark red, while cooler cloud tops appear blue. In the humidity image, the medium-wave infrared channel maps atmospheric moisture, with blue indicating higher humidity. The data will help forecast accuracy and track weather systems across the region.

Galaxy S24 Ultra's sharp edges trigger pocket tears and grip discomfort

January 27, 2026, 10:34 AM EST. Reports from Galaxy S24 Ultra owners describe pockets torn by the phone's sharp corners, a phenomenon that surfaced after the 2024 launch at a premium price. Reddit threads document incidents ranging from tiny fabric holes to significant jeans breaches, amplified by a Samsung fan's tweet and posts on SamMobile's social channels. While the S Pen receives praise as part of the Galaxy Note lineage, some users report edges digging into palms, reducing handling comfort. Samsung appears to respond with softer geometry in the 2025 sequel, and leaks for the forthcoming S26 Ultra hint at further contouring, including a curved S Pen button. Reuters sought user experiences to gauge the broader impact.

Strava and Komoot add offline maps to Apple Watch

January 27, 2026, 10:30 AM EST. Strava and Komoot are adding offline maps to the Apple Watch, enabling route viewing and workout tracking without an iPhone. Strava's offline maps require a paid subscription ($11.99/month or $79.99/year, plus taxes). Komoot offers offline maps for free with optional paid regions and includes turn-by-turn navigation. The update reduces the need to carry a phone for Apple Watch Ultra users and narrows Garmin's long-standing edge in outdoor navigation. Komoot product manager Tom Eldred says the aim is a self-sufficient Apple Watch experience, letting users leave their phone at home. The feature complements prior wearables apps and strengthens Strava/Komoot's integration on the platform.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro leak shows Apricot color, UI 8.5 hints

January 27, 2026, 10:26 AM EST. Samsung's forthcoming Galaxy Buds 4 Pro appear to gain an Apricot color option, visible in One UI 8.5 beta files surfaced by Android Authority. The flavor joins existing black and white variants, and sketches of the Pro model show a metallic stem and a softer pinkish tint. No images yet of a regular Galaxy Buds 4 in the color. The change is currently limited to the Pro line, with no confirmation for the non-Pro model. Beta files also hint at upgrades for the Buds 4 Pro, including better battery capacity and new head gesture controls that could control music or calls without touching the buds. Past color options include light purple for Buds 2 Pro and olive green for Buds 2; Buds 3 offered silver and white. Release timing remains unannounced.

China makes AI mandatory in Beijing school curriculum

January 27, 2026, 10:20 AM EST. Beijing's public schools are integrating AI into the information technology curriculum under a new directive from the Ministry of Education. Starting this fall, students in elementary and middle schools learn in stages: third graders basics, fourth graders data and coding, and by fifth grade how to use intelligent agents (software that can make decisions) and algorithms. In Li Zichen's fifth-grade class, a small robot demonstrates AI powered block building, while classmate Song Haoyue uses AI image tools to design a poster. The program aims to prepare students for life ahead and to bolster China's global competitiveness by ensuring a future pool of skilled professionals. Debates about AI in schools persist elsewhere, but Beijing has moved to normalize it across districts.

Galaxy S24 Ultra's sharp corners spark pocket damage, prompting softer redesigns in 2025-26

January 27, 2026, 10:08 AM EST. Owners of the Galaxy S24 Ultra report sharper corners that damage pockets and irritate hands. The issue has circulated on the S24 Ultra subreddit and was highlighted in a January 2026 tweet by a Samsung fan. While the phone excels with the S Pen, the design trade-off is clear. Samsung reportedly plans softer corners for the 2025 redesign, and leaks about the S26 Ultra suggest a gentler form factor and a curved S Pen clicker. Samsung has not issued a formal recall; readers are invited to share experiences on official channels.

Nvidia down 11% prompts buy-the-dip debate as AI infrastructure leader expands Rubin and Alpamayo

January 27, 2026, 9:54 AM EST. Nvidia's stock pullback of about 11% from its peak has revived the buy-the-dip debate. The company dominates the AI infrastructure layer, supplying data-center GPUs for training and inference. Revenue rose 62% year over year to $57 billion in Q3 2026, with consensus calls for roughly 51% growth in fiscal 2027 and 28% in 2028. Net income margin has expanded from 11% to 56% over three years, reflecting improving profitability. Management showcased the Rubin platform, designed to cut inference costs and reduce GPU count, and unveiled Alpamayo, open-source AI models for autonomous driving aimed at automakers like Mercedes-Benz. Valuation questions persist as the stock trades at elevated levels, requiring scrutiny of AI momentum versus execution risk.

Nvidia shares down 11% from peak; should you buy the dip?

January 27, 2026, 9:44 AM EST. Nvidia shares have pulled back about 11% from a recent high, raising the question: should you buy the dip? The company sits at the core of the AI infrastructure story, supplying data-center GPUs that power training and inference. The result has been a blistering run for the stock, with a 1,230% gain over five years through Jan. 22. In the latest results, Nvidia posted about $57 billion in revenue for the quarter ending Oct. 26, up 62% year over year; net income margin has widened from 11% to 56% over three years. Management touts ongoing innovation, including the Rubin computing platform to cut inference costs and reduce GPU needs, and the Alpamayo open-source AI models for autonomous driving, starting with Mercedes-Benz CLA. Valuation remains a focal point for new buyers.

Late-night SpaceX GPS III-9 launch set for liftoff from Cape Canaveral

January 27, 2026, 8:36 AM EST. SpaceX plans a late-night liftoff from Florida's Space Coast. A Falcon 9 rocket will carry a Lockheed Martin-built GPS III-9 satellite into medium-Earth orbit, from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The 15-minute window opens at 11:38 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026. Trajectory heads northeast. Weather and cloud cover will determine visibility along the Space Coast; observers from Jacksonville Beach to Vero Beach could see it if conditions cooperate. Live coverage begins 90 minutes before liftoff on floridatoday.com/space via the USA TODAY Network Space Team, with updates and a countdown clock. Best viewing spots are along Brevard County beaches, weather permitting, and spectators should avoid blocking traffic or rights of way.

Tesla FSD tests expose limitations of the camera-only approach

January 27, 2026, 8:24 AM EST. An independent test of Tesla's Full Self-Driving system highlights notable gaps in the camera-only design. Evaluators say the system underperforms in low-contrast lighting, glare, and complex urban scenarios where other sensors provide redundancy. Tesla maintains the vision-first stack improves with updates and neural networks, but critics say the absence of multi-sensor input may affect reaction times in adverse weather and edge cases. The test fuels the ongoing debate about how close autonomous driving is to real-world reliability. No claim of imminent consumer-ready autonomy; drivers remain responsible.

Tesla FSD test exposes limits of camera-only approach

January 27, 2026, 8:18 AM EST. Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system relies on a vision-based, or camera-only, approach. A recent test highlighted limitations: in low light, glare, and complex urban traffic, the system struggled to identify fast-moving objects and lane markings. Critics say the absence of radar and other sensors could create blind spots, potentially raising risk in adverse weather. Tesla says hardware and software updates will improve perception and decision-making, stressing safety. Regulators are weighing safety standards and validation requirements as they review sensor strategies. The test underlines the debate over how to validate autonomous driving: rapid software iteration versus robust, multi-sensor sensing to reduce misclassification and failure.

Emails show Bank of America struggles with Nvidia AI Factory adoption

January 27, 2026, 8:08 AM EST. According to internal emails reviewed by Reuters, Bank of America is grappling with delays and friction in adopting Nvidia's AI Factory platform. Engineers point to compatibility issues with legacy core banking systems, data-security reviews, and governance hurdles as key bottlenecks. Procurement and tech teams flagged rising costs and gaps in vendor support as pilots progressed toward broader deployment. Executives sought faster progress while risk and compliance units slowed decisions to align with regulatory protections. The correspondence also reveals debates over data handling, model training parameters, and the division between experimentation and customer safeguards. Nvidia representatives are described as advocating tighter integration plans and schedule milestones.

Supreme Court weighs applying Blockbuster-era Video Privacy Act to online data

January 27, 2026, 8:06 AM EST. The Supreme Court is weighing whether a Blockbuster-era privacy law should guard online data in the internet age. California plaintiff Michael Salazar says Paramount violated the 1988 Video Privacy Act by sharing his browsing data from 247Sports with Facebook for targeted advertising. Paramount counters the act covers only video rental records and that Salazar wasn't a subscriber to a video-service provider. The case tests Congress's privacy intent as technology advances beyond the statute. Salazar previously pressed a similar claim against the NBA, a challenge the Court rejected last month. A ruling could reshape how much control Americans have over their online footprints in a digital advertising economy.

Emails show Bank of America struggles with Nvidia AI Factory adoption

January 27, 2026, 8:00 AM EST. Internal emails show Bank of America grappling with the rollout of NVIDIA AI Factory. The messages describe friction integrating the platform with legacy data tools, security reviews, and staffing constraints that slow pilots from moving to production. Officials acknowledge pilots are underway, but procurement cycles and governance hurdles are delaying scale. Nvidia positions AI Factory as a turnkey path to rapid model development, yet the bank's experience underscores broader enterprise AI adoption challenges: cost considerations, compliance, and the need for robust explainability. The correspondence suggests the project may not meet optimistic timelines, even as teams push to prove AI value.

Samsung leaks Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro ahead of Unpacked launch

January 27, 2026, 7:36 AM EST. Samsung's Members app leak lists the Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro, corroborating earlier rumors that the next-generation earbuds are due ahead of an Unpacked event. The devices are expected to launch alongside the Galaxy S26 series in late February. The design is described as more curved and compact, with the familiar stem silhouette carried over from the Buds 3. Samsung reportedly drops the Blade Lights from the Buds 3 Pro, aiming to improve sound quality. The charging case is redesigned to sit flat, reversing the vertical stance and making it easier to open and retrieve the buds. Samsung did not comment on the leak.

Apple weighed Anthropic and OpenAI before partnering with Google on Siri AI

January 27, 2026, 7:32 AM EST. Apple evaluated AI partners before choosing Google to power the next generation of Siri. The company reportedly rejected Anthropic after it sought several billion dollars annually over multiple years, and also weighed a deal with OpenAI as the firms moved toward closer competition. Ultimately Apple struck a deal with Google to use its Gemini foundation model and cloud tech for Apple Foundation Models, with Apple Intelligence running on devices and a Private Cloud Compute layer to preserve privacy. The Jan. 12 announcement framed the move as enabling new features across Siri and other tools. Subsequent reporting said Google would provide the custom AI model powering a revamped Siri interface while Apple designs the user experience. Earlier reports noted tests with Anthropic and OpenAI.

AI hasn't changed work as promised; firms wrestle with adoption, skills and workflow overhaul

January 27, 2026, 7:30 AM EST. At Davos roundtables, executives say AI has not yet turbocharged productivity. Incomplete adoption lingers as employees fear job loss or doubt tool usefulness, prompting some firms to make AI usage mandatory, a move that backfired in Cisco where Francine Katsoudas noted a negative impact from forced training. A better path: give employees choice, such as Cisco offering several AI tools for engineers to select. Some argue a skills gap requires hiring AI-fluent grads, as Cantor Fitzgerald's Kyle Lutnick suggests, alongside broader internal training. Others say true gains demand a fundamental redesign of work-team structures, workflows and roles-something early-stage startups are pursuing by rebuilding from the ground up post-ChatGPT.

Microsoft probes Windows 11 boot failures tied to January security updates

January 27, 2026, 7:12 AM EST. Microsoft is investigating reports that its January 2026 security updates cause some Windows 11 devices to fail at startup, showing an UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME stop code and a black screen. The issue affects a limited number of physical machines on Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, with no server editions or virtual machines implicated. User posts in forums describe post-update boot loops, forcing manual recovery. Microsoft says it has only a small number of reports and is working to confirm whether the problem is a regression from the January updates. Guidance will be added to documentation once confirmed. The episode comes amid a rough patch cycle, alongside other bugs such as a Secure Launch failure, sign-in problems, and cloud-storage save freezes.

EU EVs outsell petrol in December as BYD-led surge contrasts with Tesla slump

January 27, 2026, 6:58 AM EST. European December auto data from ACEA show electric vehicles overtaking petrol-powered cars for the first time in the month. BEV sales surged 51%, with PHEV up 36.7% and petrol hybrids up 5.8%, while petrol-only and diesel fell 19.2% and 22.4%. BEVs and PHEVs together accounted for about one third of new registrations; when UK and EFTA are included, BEVs outsold petrol-only by 26.3% to 21.7%. For the full year, BEVs at 17.4% of EU sales vs petrol-only 26.6%. Tesla posted another large YoY decline, while BYD led the EV surge. Analysts note cleaner energy powering demand as wind and solar surpassed fossil fuels in 2025.

Data borders fragment the internet, inflating the cost of digital growth

January 27, 2026, 6:54 AM EST. Data localization laws are reshaping the global digital economy. What started as privacy and sovereignty tools now act as a hidden tax on innovation. Cisco's 2026 Data & Privacy Benchmark Study finds 85% of organizations say data localization adds cost, complexity and risk to cross-border service delivery. The impact is immediate: 77% report higher compliance and service costs; 67% note slower deployments. Infrastructure duplication, more vendors, and talent shortages compound operational complexity. SaaS and cloud models rely on centralized infrastructure and standard security controls, but localization disrupts scale and visibility, forcing country-specific stacks. Firms are boosting governance spending-43% up, and 93% plan to allocate more to privacy and data governance. In BFSI, the tension between regulatory oversight and cross-border access to data challenges competitive intelligence.

Apple to address iPhone Air camera gap with Air 2, thinner Face ID, leak says

January 27, 2026, 6:26 AM EST. Apple is unlikely to satisfy early complaints about the iPhone Air's single rear camera and high price, says a new leak. The report claims Apple has commissioned a supplier to produce a tighter design that will add an ultra-wide camera to the iPhone Air 2 while preserving its slim profile. To fit the camera, the company is said to be developing thinner Face ID components that could also appear in future Macs. The leak hints at other space constraints driving design choices, including a foldable iPhone reportedly skipping Face ID in favor of Touch ID. The first Air's reception was muted next to rivals such as the Galaxy S25 Edge, and the second model could broaden the slim-phone market if it balances cameras and battery life.

Three Teens on How AI Is Reshaping Their Job Prospects, Clare Duffy Reports

January 27, 2026, 6:16 AM EST. CNN tech reporter Clare Duffy examines how AI reshapes teens' futures in Terms of Service. She interviews three high school students with varied views on the changing job market and what industry leaders say about entry-level roles. In the first segment, Savilla Ruby Brodhead, a San Francisco area junior, describes using AI as a feedback tool in class and avoiding it for assignments. A Pew Research Center study cited in the episode shows more than a quarter of American teens have used ChatGPT for schoolwork, a number likely higher today. The piece probes how AI will influence college applications, internships, and early careers, balancing creativity and critical thinking against efficiency. The conversation is cautious, practical, and forward-looking.

Ark Invest sees AI infrastructure hitting $1.4 trillion by 2030; Vertiv among 3 stocks to buy

January 27, 2026, 5:56 AM EST. Cathie Wood's Ark Invest argues that spending on AI infrastructure-primarily data centers-will surge from about $500 billion last year to $1.4 trillion by 2030, in line with a JPMorgan outlook. The forecast implies annualized growth above 20%, presenting opportunities for investors who focus on the builders of the AI data center ecosystem rather than the AI chips themselves. Among the three stocks to consider, Vertiv is highlighted for its role in cooling and power management for next-gen facilities. Vertiv's liquid-cooling portfolio, including the new MegaMod HDX, targets heat generated by densely packed hardware. Industry projections by Global Market Insights and Precedence Research underscore a growing cooling market, helping Vertiv position for the AI-driven data center buildup.

Clawdbot AI assistant goes viral as open-source personal helper; security questions loom

January 27, 2026, 5:52 AM EST. Open-source AI assistant Clawdbot is gaining traction after weekend chatter and viral memes. The tool is commonly run on a dedicated Mac Mini and connects to users' ChatGPT or Claude accounts, as well as email, calendars and messaging apps. Mashable tech editor Timothy Beck Werth notes the surge in interest and the security risks of exposing personal data to third-party AI services. The project's open-source nature-software whose source code is publicly available-lets anyone modify it, fueling rapid experimentation and risk. In Silicon Valley, enthusiasts share tips and memes as Clawdbot shifts from curiosity to broader adoption, even as experts urge caution about data access and privacy.

iPhone 5s gets new iOS 12 update 13 years after launch

January 27, 2026, 5:50 AM EST. Apple released iOS 12.5.8 for the iPhone 5s and iPhone 6 alongside iOS 26.2.1, extending support for devices years after their initial launch. The update for the iPhone 5s (launched September 2013) and the iPhone 6 (September 2014) adds a certificate extension that preserves iMessage, FaceTime and device activation after January 2027. Previously, activation could cease with the certificate expiry. Apple has long committed to at least five years of security updates per device, with some updates continuing longer. The iPhone 6s received a security update in 2025 with iOS 15.8.5 and was given iOS 15.8.6 today, mirroring this extension. Apple also released new versions of iOS 18 and iOS 16.

Lemonade's Autonomous Car Insurance Could Stir Tesla FSD Adoption, Says Analyst

January 27, 2026, 5:40 AM EST. Lemonade's new Autonomous Car Insurance ties premiums to miles driven under Tesla's FSD, slashing rates by up to 50% for FSD mileage. The product positions insurance pricing as a function of real-world autonomous driving data, differentiating FSD from human driving. On Jan. 22, Morgan Stanley analyst Andrew Percoco reaffirmed an Equal-Weight rating on Tesla (TSLA) with a $425 price target, noting the policy could spur more FSD usage and broader adoption. The note frames lower premiums as a driver for Tesla's value proposition, signaling external recognition that FSD is moving from experiment to an economically relevant safety system. Insurers pricing granularity based on miles driven may reward risk-reducing technologies. Tesla remains a tech-driven auto and clean energy company leveraging AI in its autonomous driving and robotics initiatives. Disclosure: None.

AI Won't Replace Your Thinking-Unless You Let It, Says Kapur

January 27, 2026, 5:20 AM EST. Rajeev Kapur argues that AI will not replace human thinking, but will reveal who's willing to strengthen it. The veteran tech executive says the opportunity lies in augmenting intelligence rather than surrendering it, with humans layering judgment, experience and creativity on AI's pattern recognition. He distinguishes machine learning from generative AI, noting ML powers recommendations while generative systems produce text, images and actions. The key skill for users is iteration-talking to AI like messaging a colleague-and learning to steer the tool rather than letting it steer us. Kapur emphasizes control over the technology and cautions against fear of replacement, urging leaders to use AI to improve thinking and decision-making.

Vietnam's Kim Long Motor to build $130 million EV battery plant with BYD

January 27, 2026, 5:16 AM EST. Vietnam's Kim Long Motor said it will partner with China's BYD to develop a $130 million EV battery plant in central Vietnam. Kim Long Motor will fund the construction; BYD will provide technical and technological support, the company said. The facility will sit on a 4.4-hectare plot and target an initial production capacity of 3 GWh per year, with plans in a second phase to expand to 10 hectares and 6 GWh per year, adding batteries for electric passenger cars. The plant will produce batteries for commercial vehicles – including buses, trucks, and minibuses. Vietnam's EV market is expanding, led by domestic automaker VinFast, which recently launched its EC Van for urban freight.

Micron to invest $24 billion in Singapore NAND expansion to ease memory shortages

January 27, 2026, 5:10 AM EST. Micron commits about $24 billion to expand wafer manufacturing in Singapore, adding 700,000 square feet of cleanroom space at an existing NAND complex. Production is slated to begin in the second half of 2028 as AI-driven demand tightens memory markets. The move follows similar capacity increases by Samsung and SK Hynix. Micron is also building a roughly $7 billion HBM (high-bandwidth memory) packaging plant in Singapore and notes potential NAND-DRAM synergies. The shift toward HBM may prolong shortages of other memory types through late 2027. The NAND expansion is expected to create about 1,600 jobs, joining roughly 1,400 from the HBM facility. Singapore's EDB says the plan strengthens the island's role in the global semiconductor supply chain. Micron operates facilities across China, Taiwan, Japan and Malaysia.

Samsung USB-C beyond charging: turning your phone into a webcam

January 27, 2026, 4:56 AM EST. Samsung's smartphones use USB-C for more than charging. The port supports fast data transfer and versatile connections that can expand what a Galaxy device does. One popular use is turning the phone into a webcam for video calls. By linking the Galaxy to a laptop or desktop via USB-C and using Microsoft's Link to Windows, users can feed a high-quality image into Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet. This setup often yields sharper video than built-in laptop cameras and leverages the phone's advanced sensors and processors. The piece notes that many Chromebooks and laptops struggle with built-in webcams, while the Galaxy's USB-C can provide stability and better framing. Beyond webcams, USB-C enables external storage, adapters, and faster file transfer, underscoring the port's versatility.

Tesla: Autonomy Stack Not Ready to Justify Valuation, Rating Downgrade

January 27, 2026, 4:36 AM EST. An equity analyst downgrades Tesla after evaluating the automaker's autonomy stack. The assessment warns that the current self-driving technology may not yet justify the market's valuation given execution risk, regulatory headwinds, and real-world deployment pace. The downgrade highlights that advances in software, safety, and hardware integration must translate into reliable, scalable features before investors can price a substantial premium. While Tesla remains a leader in EVs and autonomous ambitions, the note stresses that near-term catalysts are uncertain and that profitability assumptions hinge on a broader, durable capability rollout rather than early milestones. The report reiterates caution for shareholders amid a volatile stock narrative.

North Sea cables get anti-sabotage protection as wind-energy push expands

January 27, 2026, 4:22 AM EST. Ten European countries, plus the European Commission, agreed in Hamburg to jointly bolster the security of critical infrastructure, including internet cables, energy pipelines and transformer platforms, and to conduct more North Sea military exercises to deter sabotage. The accord comes amid concerns about Russian activity, after a spy ship shadowed a transatlantic cable near Terschelling and accusations linking Russia to several cable incidents and the Nord Stream 2 explosion. Separately, nearly €10 billion will be invested in offshore wind farms to reach 100 GW of capacity by 2050, reducing reliance on Russian gas. The plan also covers cross-border electricity cables and transformer platforms, improving load balancing and potentially easing backup demand. Disruptions could spike latency and service outages if networks are sabotaged.

Apple releases iOS 12.5.8 to extend support for older iPhones and iPads

January 27, 2026, 4:14 AM EST. Apple has released iOS 12.5.8 for older iPhones, iPads and iPod touch to extend a critical certificate that expires in January 2027. The update, available for iPhone 5s, 6, 6 Plus, iPad Air, iPad mini 2 and 3, and iPod touch (6th generation), keeps services such as iMessage, FaceTime and device activation functioning after the expiry. Apple notes the fix is to maintain compatibility on devices that can't upgrade to newer iOS versions. The release comes three years after the last major update, and ahead of broader beta releases for newer systems. Users with these devices are advised to install the update to avoid gaps in messaging and activation.

Apple releases iOS 26.2.1 with AirTag 2nd-generation support and bug fixes

January 27, 2026, 3:58 AM EST. In a brief update, Apple released iOS 26.2.1 to add AirTag (2nd generation) support and bug fixes. The release enables Precision Finding on Apple Watch for the first time, limited to Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 or newer. Apple also issued companion watchOS and iPadOS updates. The update notes are sparse and do not list published CVEs. Users who want better Precision Finding must upgrade to iOS 26.2.1. Installation is via Settings > General > Software Update on iPhone, and via the Watch app or on-device Settings for Apple Watch.

Bitcoin's weakness versus gold and equities rekindles quantum-computing fears

January 27, 2026, 3:54 AM EST. Bitcoin slipped to just above $89,000 as gold surged to a record near $4,930 an ounce and silver jumped about 3.7%, widening the gap with equities. Since the November 2024 election, bitcoin is down ~2.6%, while gold and silver rise sharply. The debate over quantum computing's impact on crypto was sparked by Castle Island Ventures partner Nic Carter, who calls the weakness 'due to quantum' and says it's the year's only story. Onchain analyst @_Checkmatey_ argued price action reflects supply and positioning, not sci-fi risk. Vijay Boyapati echoed the view of a whale-driven liquidity event. For now, the risk remains theoretical; most developers see practical quantum attacks years away, with BIP 360 proposing gradual, quantum-resistant addresses.

Google Pixel January 2026 update breaks Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, widespread outages reported

January 27, 2026, 3:52 AM EST. Google's January 2026 Pixel update has sparked widespread Wi-Fi and Bluetooth failures on several Pixel models. The update, rolled out in mid-January, leaves some devices unable to turn these radios on, with no reliable workaround. Restarts or factory resets offer no lasting fix. Users report the problem across Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro/XL, though not all devices are affected. Reinstalling the latest public build appears to help for a few, but requires sideloading-the manual installation of software outside the official update flow-via ADB (Android Debug Bridge) and a PC. With limited mobile data access, affected users risk a near-airplane mode state. Google's Made by Google account acknowledged the issue without giving a timeline for a fix. Other bugs include broken Settings search, flaky Network & Internet, battery drain, and camera issues.

Study says LLMs are mathematically unable to perform complex tasks; AI agents questioned

January 27, 2026, 3:50 AM EST. A Wired-sourced, not peer-reviewed study asserts that large language models (LLMs) are mathematically unable to carry out computational and agentic tasks beyond a limited complexity. Authored by Vishal Sikka, a former SAP CTO, and his son Varin, the paper cites fundamental architectural limits. Sikka says there is no way LLMs can be reliable for such tasks. The piece notes that industry voices also acknowledge persistent hallucinations in AI models and that even OpenAI researchers say accuracy will never reach 100%. The debate clouds the promise of AI agents that would operate autonomously. Proponents argue guardrails external to models can filter errors, and some researchers advocate modular components around LLMs to overcome limitations, though skepticism remains.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Pro leak points to dual-front-camera design

January 27, 2026, 3:48 AM EST. DJI may be preparing the Osmo Pocket 4 Pro after a Reddit photo purportedly shows the pocket-sized vlogging cam with a dual-camera front setup and the familiar rotating screen from the Pocket 3. The leak fuels talk of two Pocket 4 variants – a standard single-lens model and a higher-end Pro. A dual front lens could enable different focal lengths or a zoom function, though specifics aren't confirmed. The device would keep DJI's gimbal-stabilised design; gimbal-stabilised means the camera sits on a motorized mount that smooths movement for walk footage. Timing remains unclear; leaks hint at an April reveal, but DJI hasn't commented. The leak underscores a broader push in this category, with rival brands also exploring Pocket-style cameras.

Apple could release four new products in 2026, including a HomePad hub, doorbell, foldable iPhone and AR glasses

January 27, 2026, 3:40 AM EST. Apple is expected to broaden into new hardware categories in 2026, unveiling four products alongside new services. Rumors point to a smart home hub called the HomePad, described as a mix of a HomePod-like speaker and an iPad-style display. DigiTimes and other outlets tie its release to iOS 26.4 and Google's Gemini AI models, with a 6-7 inch display and an A18 chip. The device would run on Apple Intelligence and rely on the App Intents API to control apps and devices. Other rumored items include a smart doorbell, a foldable iPhone, and first-generation augmented reality glasses, plus a premium tabletop robot with a mechanical arm expected by 2027. Apple reportedly plans roughly 20 product releases this year.

Study questions AI agents' limits, citing LLM ceiling on complex tasks

January 27, 2026, 3:36 AM EST. A Wired-published, non-peer-reviewed paper by Vishal Sikka and Varin Sikka argues that large language models have an inherent ceiling that prevents them from carrying out computational or agentic tasks beyond modest complexity. Sikka, a former SAP chief technology officer who studied under John McCarthy, says there is no way LLMs can be reliable for such work. The article notes that OpenAI researchers have acknowledged persistent hallucinations and that model accuracy will "never" reach 100%. The piece challenges hype around autonomous AI agents, which firms hoped would replace human labor after last year's hype. Proponents counter that external guardrails and integrated components can mitigate flaws; the paper concedes the limitation for a pure LLM but suggests composite systems may overcome it. The conclusions remain unpeer-reviewed.

Electric winter briefing: Tesla Cybertruck demand cools as EV tips and solar stories rise

January 27, 2026, 3:34 AM EST. On the latest Quick Charge episode, hosts deliver EV-focused guidance for cold weather, from driving tips to keep you moving to how home solar and backup batteries fit into winter resilience. The show notes also revisit vehicle-to-home capabilities and spotlight big battery projects in North Carolina. Cybertruck shipments are referenced as Elon Musk expands overseas, while sections promote EnergySage-provided solar quotes. The program combines practical steps for navigating icy roads with context on the capacity and rollout of large batteries, plus links to older posts about V2H systems. Listeners are invited to submit tips and rate the show on major podcast platforms.

AI data centers spur a new heat economy as excess heat powers campuses and district networks

January 27, 2026, 3:32 AM EST. Big Tech's AI push is unlocking a new use for data-center heat. In Dublin, an AWS facility now supplies about 92% of a nearby campus' heating, part of a widening move to reuse waste heat through district heating networks. The trend hinges on AI hardware that runs hotter and on advances in water cooling that can recover higher-temperature heat, reducing the hardware footprint. Industry executives describe the approach as a social license boost for data centers and a decarbonization tactic, even if cost remains a hurdle. Europe-wide programs are expanding; Microsoft, Equinix, and Google have initiated heat-recovery projects in Denmark, Paris, and Finland, respectively. Ireland, once tight on energy, has relaxed its moratorium on new data centers and is seen as a testing ground for repurposing heat into a municipal network.

Cambridge's Zenith AI supercomputer secures £36 million government upgrade

January 27, 2026, 3:18 AM EST. Government to invest £36 million to upgrade the Dawn supercomputer in Cambridge, expanding its capacity sixfold as part of AI funding. The upgrade will rename the system Zenith, adding AI chips and more power by spring. Dawn has supported more than 350 projects for free and helps NHS waiting lists and climate modelling. The AIRR program provides free access to high-powered computing, with Dawn and Isambard in Bristol. Zenith is built with Dell, AMD and Stack HPC. The move aims to speed up medical diagnostics and climate research. Dr Paul Calleja notes 1 megawatt draw and 50 engineers keep Dawn running; he highlights power efficiency. The project seeks breakthroughs for science and public services.

Animated short 'Dear Upstairs Neighbors' blends animation and AI research at Sundance

January 27, 2026, 3:16 AM EST. At Sundance, the animated short Dear Upstairs Neighbors previews at the Sundance Institute's Story Forum, a space focused on artist-first tools for visual storytelling. The film follows Ada, a young woman desperate for sleep who is kept awake by noisy upstairs neighbors; as she investigates, reality bleeds into fantasy in a battle for peace. The project brings together animation veteran Connie He-Pixar alum-with researchers from Google DeepMind to explore how generative tools might fit into artists' creative workflows. The collaboration mirrors a broader push to integrate AI into storytelling while safeguarding craft.

Gulf oil giants back India's AI infrastructure push at India Energy Week

January 27, 2026, 3:02 AM EST. At India Energy Week, officials frame the AI surge as a battle for electricity, not just software. The event's subtext: power grids and cooling matter as much as code. UAE's ADNOC chief Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber showed that oil majors are thinking bigger, signaling a shift toward energy infrastructure for scalable AI. Global data-centre demand already accounts for about 1.5% of electricity use, with the IEA citing roughly 415 TWh in 2024, and AI workloads likely to push that higher through 2026. India aims to become a testbed for AI infrastructure, with its data-centre capacity currently about 1.4 GW and a pipeline expected to reach high single-digit gigawatts by the end of the decade. The risk is underinvestment, not oversupply, as cooling and grid constraints tighten the path forward.

Apple rolls out iOS 26.2.1 to fix emergency-call issues on older iPhones in Australia

January 27, 2026, 2:58 AM EST. Apple released iOS 26.2.1 today to fix an issue that blocked some older iPhones from making emergency calls in Australia. The company also pushed updates for older devices, including iOS 18.7.4, 16.7.13, 15.8.6 and 12.5.8, to ensure continued access to 000 calls on models up to the iPhone 12 and earlier. The move follows a December failure that affected iPhone 12s and prompted the earlier update. Apple also rolled out watchOS 26.2.1 to address potential problems on Apple Watch Series 6 and newer. Australian carriers are expanding emergency-call support, though some older devices may still face issues. If another network hiccup occurs, some older phones could fail to reach emergency services on any alternate network. Affected models are listed in Apple's support doc.

Apple rolls out iOS 26.2.1 to fix emergency-call issues on older iPhones in Australia

January 27, 2026, 2:56 AM EST. Apple on Friday pushed iOS 26.2.1 to address an emergency-call defect affecting older iPhones in Australia. A refreshed support document urges users with an iPhone 12 or earlier to install the latest software so their devices can dial the 000 emergency number. Today's updates also include iOS 18.7.4, iOS 16.7.13, iOS 15.8.6 and iOS 12.5.8 for older models. The issue, first reported in December, blocked emergency calls on iPhone 12 units and was fixed with the earlier update; the new releases aim to prevent a recurrence on older devices and some cellular Apple Watch models. watchOS 26.2.1 covers Apple Watch Series 6 and later. Australian carriers say they are improving emergency-call support, though some legacy phones could still experience outages. Apple lists a broad update slate for affected models.

Tesla earnings face SpaceX spotlight as Musk's ventures loom in IPO chatter

January 27, 2026, 2:52 AM EST. Tesla is due to report quarterly results after the U.S. stock close, but the night's discourse centers on SpaceX. On Say.com, the retailer's forum for earnings-day questions, the top-voted query asks whether long-term Tesla holders would keep priority if SpaceX goes public. SpaceX is seen by some investors as a potential rival valuation, with talks of an IPO this year and a target value as high as $1.5 trillion-roughly the size of today's Tesla. Analysts say any allocation plan would have to address ties between the two Musk-led companies. Separately, investors are watching Tesla's push into robotaxi deployments in Austin and the Bay Area, its FSD software roadmap, and a projection for a future without drivers. Musk has suggested self-driving could become widespread by year-end, while Cybercab plans are also noted.

DJI Mini 4K Hits All-Time Low Price on Amazon, Bundles Discounted Up to $110

January 27, 2026, 2:48 AM EST. DJI's Mini 4K drone has its lowest Amazon price yet, with all three bundle configurations discounted 24-26% as of January 26, 2026. The single-battery kit is $225, the two-battery combo $289, and the Fly More Combo $339-saving up to $110 off list. The move follows the December 2025 FCC Covered List action, which keeps existing stock legal to sell and fly but blocks new models from FCC authorization for now. The Mini 4K weighs 249 grams, placing it under the FAA recreational registration threshold-no paperwork, fees, or Remote ID (identity broadcast) required when flying. The price drop strengthens its position as a compact, legal entry for first-time pilots seeking longer flight times in the top bundles.

UK government funds £36m upgrade for Cambridge's Zenith AI supercomputer

January 27, 2026, 2:44 AM EST. Britain is pumping £36 million into the Dawn supercomputer at the University of Cambridge as part of a broader AI push. The upgrade will boost Dawn's capacity sixfold and rebrand the system as Zenith. The AI Research Resource (AIRR) program gives researchers free access to high-powered computing, supporting more than 350 projects to date, including tools for faster cancer vaccine development, NHS waiting-list reductions and climate modelling. The project, developed with Dell, AMD and Stack HPC, aims to deliver practical benefits such as quicker medical diagnostics. Dawn consumes about 1 megawatt of power and roughly as much water as 20 homes; proponents say energy use is justified by the outputs. UK researchers and tech firms will gain access to tools of the future to advance public services and innovation.

Google to pay $68 million to settle claims its voice assistant spied on users

January 27, 2026, 2:30 AM EST. Google will pay $68 million to settle a class-action accusing the Google voice assistant of unlawfully intercepting and recording users to serve advertisements and for disclosing those recordings to third parties. The settlement does not admit wrongdoing. The case centers on alleged false accepts, where the Google Assistant activated and recorded without a wake word. TechCrunch sought comment from Google. The dispute sits in a broader privacy debate about devices that listen in on users. It echoes 2021 settlements when Apple paid $95 million over Siri recordings, and follows Google's own $1.4 billion Texas privacy settlements announced last year.

Apple Watch finds four times more hidden AFib cases than standard care, study says

January 27, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. The EQUAL trial at Amsterdam University Medical Center followed 437 patients aged 65 and older at high stroke risk for six months. About half wore an Apple Watch (Series 5 or 8) for roughly 12 hours daily; the other half received standard care. The device detected 21 new cases of AFib (9.6%), versus 5 in standard care (2.3%). Notably, roughly 57% of Apple Watch detections were asymptomatic, meaning patients felt fine and might not seek care. All seven symptomatic detections occurred in the standard-care group. The watch relies on photoplethysmography to monitor rhythm and can trigger a single-lead ECG when irregularities arise. Lead investigator Dr. Michiel Winter called the results notable. Earlier work in 2021 also highlighted wearable arrhythmia detection.

ASML rides Nvidia's coattails with lasers and huge chip printers

January 27, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. ASML, the Dutch lithography maker, supplies the EUV (extreme ultraviolet) machines that print the AI chips fueling the AI boom. The company counts TSMC and Intel among its clients and holds about 90% of the lithography market, thanks to its high-throughput EUV systems. Shares have surged as chipmakers lift capex to expand capacity amid tighter supply and higher chip prices, with Nvidia powering demand for AI chips. Analysts have lifted 2026 forecasts above company guidance as investors watch for a potential upgrade to guidance. Major customers plan larger investments: TSMC aims to raise capital spending, with others including Samsung and Micron also increasing spending. Competition remains in the lower-end DUV segment from Nikon, Canon, and SMEE.

Apple unveils second-generation AirTag and Black Unity Connection Braided Solo Loop

January 27, 2026, 2:20 AM EST. Apple on Tuesday introduced its first two physical products of 2026: a second-generation AirTag with longer range and a louder speaker, and the Black Unity Connection Braided Solo Loop for the Apple Watch. Both items can be ordered now on Apple.com and in the Apple Store app in dozens of countries and will be available at Apple Store locations later this week. Apple expects about 20 more product launches in 2026, signaling a busy year ahead. The AirTag attaches to belongings and uses the Find My network across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and iCloud.com to provide location data. The Black Unity Connection Braided Solo Loop continues Apple's line of themed accessories.

Apple to pay up to $20 per Siri device in $95 million privacy settlement

January 27, 2026, 2:18 AM EST. Apple has begun distributing a $95 million class-action settlement after claims Siri recorded private conversations and shared them with advertisers. Tens of millions could qualify. To receive payments, owners of Siri-enabled devices must have held the device between September 17, 2014 and December 31, 2024. Eligible claimants may lodge up to five devices and receive as much as $20 per device, with total payout varying by valid claims. Notifications were sent by settlement administrators via emails and postcards; the claims window closed in July. Apple has denied wrongdoing but agreed to settle. Apple says Siri was designed to protect user privacy, while plaintiffs contended inadvertent activations caused confidential conversations to be obtained by Apple and/or shared with third parties.

Garmin beta update fixes HRV crash and Messenger scroll on Fenix, Epix and Enduro watches

January 27, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. Garmin has begun rolling a public beta of firmware 21.18 for high-end watches in the Fenix, Epix and Enduro families. The release prioritizes stability over new features. The prominent fix targets Garmin's HRV data, which could crash or display erratic results when accessed on the watch. The update also addresses lag and stutter in Garmin Messenger conversations, especially on longer threads or smaller screens. Garmin says the changes are quality-of-life improvements and that features like ECG and dive may remain disabled until the beta graduates to a stable rollout. Non-enrolled users won't see the update yet, but Garmin typically widens access after testing.

AirTag 2 adds UWB 2, louder speaker and Watch support

January 27, 2026, 2:14 AM EST. Apple's AirTag 2 brings a second-generation UWB chip (labeled UWB 2), enabling a 1.5x longer Precision Finding range. Precision Finding now works on Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2. The speaker is up to 50% louder. It uses a newer Bluetooth spec. Internals redesigned to fit the speaker. Weight 11.8 g, up 7%. Back label now capitalized, listing IP67 water/dust, NFC and Find My support. Not for pets. Reset requires removing the battery four times, waiting up to 12 seconds for the final tone. Requires iOS 26.2.1. The AirTag 2 still uses the Find My network to locate items when out of Bluetooth range.

Big Tech borrowing spree stirs AI risk concerns in US bond market

January 27, 2026, 2:10 AM EST. Big Tech firms have issued large volumes of bonds to fund AI bets, pushing corporate debt higher in the US market. The trend blends discipline with risk: leverage grows as firms chase AI leadership, while interest rates and refinancing costs rise. Investors weigh the upside of rapid product cycles against the vulnerability of debt-funded growth when revenue misses or policy changes hit. Credit analysts flag potential widening spreads if regulation or macro headwinds slow demand. Refinancing risk grows as maturities come due amid a volatile bond market. Still, many blue-chip issuers retain strong ratings and cash flows, which could temper stress. The outcome will hinge on actual returns from AI initiatives and policy clarity.

Motorola Razr Ultra deal hits official site with freebies and 1TB upgrade

January 27, 2026, 2:08 AM EST. Motorola's official site lists the Razr Ultra in all Pantone hues – Scarab, Cabaret, Mountain Trail and Rio Red. The foldable phones ship with a Snapdragon 8 Elite, 16GB RAM, and include a free 1TB storage upgrade. Build quality features an aluminum frame, steel hinge, IP48 rating, and a vegan leather back with a vintage touch on Mountain Trail. The 7.0-inch LTPO AMOLED display runs at 1,224 x 2,912 and supports 165Hz refresh. Battery tests show about 4,700 mAh, with 68W wired and 30W wireless charging. The bundle adds Moto Watch Fit and Moto Buds Plus (worth $199 each). All told, the deal sits at $999.99, but time is limited.

Apple unveils second-generation AirTag with longer range and louder speaker

January 27, 2026, 1:58 AM EST. Apple on Monday announced a second-generation AirTag, identical in size to the original but powered by an updated Ultra Wideband chip for better range in the Find My app. Apple says the new AirTag is 50% louder and can be heard up to twice as far, thanks to a redesigned speaker and internal layout. It also touts industry-first privacy protections, including cross-platform alerts and frequently changing Bluetooth identifiers to deter unwanted tracking. Pricing stays the same: $29 for one and $99 for a four-pack, with orders open and shipments due later this week. The company framed the update as making it easier to locate belongings while preserving its existing accessory ecosystem.

Cloudflare's Human Native deal signals AI licensing shift for publishers

January 27, 2026, 1:46 AM EST. Cloudflare's acquisition of UK-based startup Human Native signals a shift toward a licensed, structured content layer for the AI economy. The deal aims to turn publisher output into AI-ready data and ensure creators are paid, underpinning an AI licensing stack for its publisher clients. Cloudflare has already explored this path with a private beta for an AI Index that helps high-quality data reach AI developers. The move tightens the company's broader effort to rebalance the relationship between publishers and AI companies, adding better control for content rights and monetization. Yet incentives matter: without licensed content, AI models risk low quality data and regulatory and reputational risks. The industry faces a catch-22 between openness and payment.

The Day AI Takes Over Car Operations: From Reactive to Agentic Autonomy

January 27, 2026, 1:44 AM EST. AI has become the invisible layer binding cars' driver aids, infotainment, safety, and manufacturing. Today's systems are largely reactive-following commands and sensor inputs with fixed rules. The next phase is predictive AI, which anticipates traffic, weather, fatigue, and even driver mood to suggest routes or adjust behavior. The leap is agentic AI: systems that set goals, make decisions, and act autonomously. In cars, that could mean rerouting to avoid danger, limiting high-speed driving in bad weather, or even pulling the car over if impairment is detected. Regulators, insurers, and manufacturers clash over who defines the goals of AI. Critics warn about risks of misuse and misinformation, while proponents see potential for safer, more efficient driving. The debate centers on control, accountability, and the boundary between assistance and autonomy.

Tesla vs Meta Platforms: Which AI Growth Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026

January 27, 2026, 1:42 AM EST. Tesla is reshaping earnings toward AI-enabled services around its Robotaxi amid ongoing profit pressure and a pause in near-term delivery momentum. Each Tesla vehicle carries hardware believed to enable full self-driving, with over-the-air updates planned when software advances mature. Meta Platforms, by contrast, is prioritizing AI infrastructure to support ads and a broader vision of personal AI, with revenue up about 26% in Q3 and, excluding a one-time tax charge, net income up roughly 19%. The contrast: Tesla faces execution risk as Robotaxi scales; Meta benefits from a faster-growing core business and clearer AI tailwinds. The takeaway: both are AI plays, but investors face different risk/return profiles and timelines for AI-driven profitability.

Samsung Galaxy S26 leaks point to Feb. 25 Unpacked, March 11 launch

January 27, 2026, 1:40 AM EST. Leaker Ice Universe claims Samsung will unveil the Galaxy S26 at an Unpacked event on February 25, with a South Korea launch set for March 11 and a global pre-order window from February 25 to March 4, followed by a presale March 5-10. The post notes those dates likely map to Western markets as well. Ice Universe has previously teased Samsung details with a track record, though Samsung has not confirmed any dates. The rumors also touch on colors leaking and a refinement rather than a redesign. Specs reportedly include a thinner chassis, a new 12MP telephoto sensor and a Snapdragon processor. No official confirmation yet.

Clawdbot users snap up the Mac Mini as price falls under $500 on Amazon

January 27, 2026, 1:38 AM EST. Mashable's Lauren Allain reports that Clawdbot users are snapping up the Mac Mini, which pairs with an AI personal assistant designed to run as an always-on hub. The M4 Mac Mini is on sale at Amazon for $499, down from $599 – a 17% discount. Deal pricing and availability are subject to change after publication. The sale underscores demand for low-cost, compact machines that support AI tools and home automation.

Tech megacaps Meta, Microsoft eye earnings; charts point to potential positive reactions, says Katie Stockton

January 27, 2026, 1:36 AM EST. Technical analyst Katie Stockton points to favorable charts for META and MSFT ahead of their earnings this week, with both stocks flirting with long-term cloud support. META has retested its cloud, boosting weekly stochastics and a rising MACD histogram, setting up a potential breakout. Resistance sits near 681, defined by the Q4 gap and the cloud's upper edge; a weekly close above could target the all-time high near 796, while a break below the cloud could bring secondary support around 526. MSFT also tested cloud support; a decisive advance above the 481-485 zone-cushioned by the cloud and the 200-day MA-could open a path toward the all-time high near 555. A breakdown would shift focus to roughly 425. Apple looks oversold and may post a positive initial reaction, with resistance near 275 and support around 235-243.

SpaceX GPS III-9 launch could be seen across Florida's Space Coast

January 27, 2026, 1:34 AM EST. Late-night rocket fans in Florida may glimpse SpaceX's Falcon 9 when it lifts off Tuesday night from Cape Canaveral. The mission, GPS III-9 for Lockheed Martin, places a next-generation GPS satellite into medium-Earth orbit. The 15-minute launch window opens at 11:38 p.m. ET from Launch Complex 40. Visibility spans from Jacksonville Beach to West Palm Beach, weather permitting and depending on cloud cover and trajectory. For dramatic photos, a nocturnal launch and the rocket's bright plume can illuminate the sky and trail a long contrail. In Volusia County, best viewing is along the beach, facing south, with spots such as South New Smyrna Beach and Bethune Beach Park recommended. USA TODAY Network reporters will offer live updates at floridatoday.com/space and via the Florida Today app.

AirTag 2 adds Precision Finding for Apple Watch, preserves battery and size

January 27, 2026, 1:32 AM EST. Apple's second-generation AirTag adds Precision Finding support for Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, guiding users with haptic, visual and audio cues and a large on-screen arrow. The tag uses the same CR2032 battery and retains long life-more than a year under typical use. It keeps the same physical size, ensuring existing accessories remain compatible. Availability is immediate, with pricing unchanged at $20 for a single AirTag and $99 for a four-pack. Apple notes continued compatibility with current cases and mounts, so luggage or bags with built-in AirTag holders remain usable.

Apple Watch saved my life, doctor says wearable may have prevented heart attack

January 27, 2026, 1:20 AM EST. An account of how an Apple Watch helped avert a medical crisis. The author, living with leukaemia and on targeted chemotherapy described as a miracle pill, says the watch's heart-rate monitor flagged a dangerous rise to 120 beats per minute in bed, with dizziness. A treating physician later told him the watch deserved thanks and that he might not have been here without it. After a cough, a private GP diagnosed a chest infection. A nurse asked about medications, revealing the ongoing chemo regime. He then suffered a severe headache and nausea that night. The piece highlights how wearable health tech can prompt timely medical care amid chronic illness.

Google adds Gemini scheduling feature to Calendar

January 27, 2026, 1:18 AM EST. Google is introducing a Gemini-powered feature in Google Calendar that suggests meeting times by scanning attendees' calendars. In a draft, users can click Suggested times; Gemini reviews availability and conflicts and offers slot options. If attendees decline, organizers can reschedule to a time when everyone is free. The tool requires access to attendees' calendars and is limited to paid plans-Google Workspace Business (Standard and Plus) and Enterprise (Standard and Plus)-as well as the Google AI Pro for Education add-on. The feature is live on Rapid Release domains now and will roll out to Scheduled Release domains on February 2.

Apple unveils Black Unity Apple Watch band with community grants

January 27, 2026, 1:16 AM EST. Apple unveiled the Black Unity Apple Watch Unity Connection Braided Solo Loop for Black History Month. The special-edition band is designed by Black creatives at Apple and weaves recycled polyester yarn around ultrathin silicone threads. It features the Pan-African flag colors, a textured, sweat- and water-resistant finish, and a multitone look. Apple also announced grants to organizations that promote connection and creativity, including Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Urban Arts in New York, Youth Music in London, Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney, and Enactus México in Mexico City. The program extends Apple's ongoing commitment to economic, educational, and creative opportunities in communities worldwide.

NASA moves closer to Artemis II fueling test ahead of launch

January 27, 2026, 1:14 AM EST. Teams at NASA's Kennedy Space Center are moving forward with Artemis II preparations, staging the SLS rocket, Orion spacecraft and ground infrastructure for a wet dress rehearsal (WDR). The test could begin as early as Saturday, Jan. 31, and will load more than 700,000 gallons of cryogenic propellants, run a launch countdown, and practice safely venting and removing propellant with no crew aboard. The WDR will include several runs to demonstrate holding, resuming, and recycling the terminal count in the final 10 minutes, culminating in a simulated launch at around 9 p.m. EST. If needed, teams may rollback to the Vehicle Assembly Building for additional work. Earlier, boosters were serviced and Orion prep continued; engineers addressed an emergency egress system issue and prepared for cold-weather operations.

AI-generated imagery distorts Holocaust memory, experts warn

January 27, 2026, 1:10 AM EST. On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, experts warn that AI-generated imagery risks distorting the memory of Nazi crimes for clicks or political aims. AFP's Fact Check team flagged a surge of such visuals on social networks, including a claimed photo at Flossenbuerg and a non-existent child said to have died at Auschwitz. Historians Iris Groschek and Jens-Christian Wagner say the trend is rising with AI advances. Memorial groups call the content 'entirely fabricated' and warn of images that dilute facts or reverse roles. Some pieces come from content farms seeking maximum reach; others aim to trivialise the Holocaust or push revisionist narratives. The phenomenon has concrete consequences for how the Nazi era is perceived.

Mishicot-area residents rally against proposed AI data center

January 27, 2026, 1:08 AM EST. Dozens of Mishicot-area residents gathered at a local restaurant Monday to oppose an AI data center proposed for the region, as land scouts approach farms with purchase offers. Anthony Barta of Two Creeks, who runs about 1,000 animals, said a sale would threaten his livelihood and the wider community. Cloverleaf Infrastructure, which has pursued land for multiple Northeast Wisconsin data-center projects, said the region is a viable site but declined to comment on any specific project. A local farmer was reportedly offered about $70-80 million for as much as 6,000 acres. Cloverleaf had pulled an AI data center plan in Greenleaf two weeks earlier after community backlash and did not pursue land near the Kewaunee-Manitowoc border. In nearby Kaukauna, officials amended zoning to allow data centers with restrictions.

Garmin Vivoactive 6: Sleek design, strong performance

January 27, 2026, 1:02 AM EST. Garmin's Vivoactive 6 blends a sleek look with solid performance. The watch minimizes bulk for daily wear while offering a bright AMOLED display and up to 11 days of battery life. It tracks health and fitness with metrics like sleep quality and stress, plus built-in sports apps, animated workouts, and suggested daily routines. Connectivity extends to notifications on the wrist, onboard music storage, and Garmin Pay, with support for app and watch-face downloads to keep things fresh. At around $250 on sale, it delivers notable value for a recent release. A range of colors lets you match your style, making it a strong option for wearers who want performance without bulk.

Sam Altman says AI could dramatically slow OpenAI hiring

January 27, 2026, 12:58 AM EST. OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman warned that AI progress could dramatically slow OpenAI's hiring. The remark hints at a shift in growth plans as the company weighs how quickly to expand its team against evolving product goals and safety considerations. Altman's comment underscores a broader industry caution about scaling talent during rapid technological change, even as the company pursues new partnerships and product launches.

China's thermal battery breakthrough uses COF barrier to curb shuttle effect

January 27, 2026, 12:56 AM EST. China's scientists have proposed a COF-based barrier to temper the shuttle effect in thermal batteries, a long-standing hurdle that drains capacity. The approach, reported in Advanced Science, centers on a shell built from covalent organic frameworks (COFs) around specific battery particles. By tuning which ions can move, the barrier curbs the dissolution of intermediate polysulfides and reduces irreversible sulfur loss that limits cycling efficiency. Led by Professor Wang Song and Zhu Yongping of the Institute of Process Engineering at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the work builds on prior attempts to insert barriers and dedicated sulfur electrodes. If scalable, the concept could underpin high-density thermal batteries with improved performance and longer lifespans, offering a foundation for next-generation energy storage.

Tesla ends Autopilot in US and Canada, shifts basic features to $99/month subscription

January 27, 2026, 12:54 AM EST. Tesla has discontinued Autopilot in the United States and Canada, replacing basic driver-assist functions with a paid subscription. Starting February 14, owners must pay $99 per month for features such as autosteer and lane-keep, while Traffic Aware Cruise Control remains free. The move follows years of regulatory scrutiny, lawsuits, and high-profile crashes linked to the system. Tesla also faces a California court deadline over alleged misleading branding of Autopilot versus Full Self-Driving (FSD). The subscription strategy coincides with Musk's pay package and aims to boost revenue amid sagging car sales. Tesla had previously offered an $8,000 one-time FSD unlock; the company emphasizes FSD as a separate product, though it still requires driver engagement.

Apple expands iPhone share in India as shipments flatten in 2025

January 27, 2026, 12:52 AM EST. Apple's iPhone shipments in India rose to a record 9% market share in 2025, Counterpoint Research data show, up from 7% in 2024 as the total smartphone market held steady at about 152-153 million units. TechCrunch cited around 14 million iPhones shipped in 2025. Apple's gains stem from the iPhone lineup, growing aspirational demand, and broader sales channels, as the company ramps up local manufacturing and a broader retail push. Despite momentum, Apple did not crack the top three by shipments; Vivo led with 23%, followed by Samsung at 15% and Xiaomi at 13%. Premium devices (₹30,000+) rose 15% to a record 23% of shipments.

OnePlus 15R review: premium build, flagship hardware, mid-range cameras

January 27, 2026, 12:50 AM EST. OnePlus 15R sits between the Nord 5 and the OnePlus 15, offering a premium build and a large 6.83-inch display with 165Hz and HDR10+. It runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 with 12GB RAM and UFS 4.1 storage, backed by a 7,400mAh battery and 80W wired charging. The camera array sticks to a 50MP main with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide, plus a 32MP selfie cam, trading away the telephoto of the flagship for more basic optics. The phone ships in a red box; in the EU, the charger is omitted. At price, it sits close to the OnePlus 15, which could dampen its appeal despite the durable build, fast storage, and sizable battery. A flagship killer label remains nuanced, given the competition and pricing.

ARC Raiders Headwinds update adds Solo vs Squads, trophy displays and new cosmetics

January 27, 2026, 12:48 AM EST. ARC Raiders rolls out the Headwinds update on January 27, boosting competition and progression. The game now supports a Solo vs Squads option for players above level 40, with extra XP for tackling squads. The Trophy Display feature lets players hunt ARC machines (the game's hostile robots) for sport, building a trophy case and unlocking rewards as they level up. In Bird City, melting ice brings more loot-typically in chimneys-but raiders face more ambush risk from others. Two new cosmetic sets arrive, including the Sandwalker Set for stealth and mobility. The update signals a broader escalation in the topside environment and challenge.

California requires disclosure for AI-altered real estate photos under AB 723

January 27, 2026, 12:46 AM EST. California's AB 723 requires real estate listings showing AI- or software-altered images to carry a reasonably conspicuous disclosure and to include a link to the original, unaltered image via a URL or QR code. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the measure, which goes into effect on January 1, 2026. The rule aims to curb misleading visuals as AI-enabled editing spreads beyond California to sites such as Zillow and Redfin, including virtual staging and AI walkthroughs. Industry observers warn that altered photos can confuse buyers, even as the technology lowers staging costs. NAR official Dan Weisman told Wired that 80-90% of conference attendees were using AI, reflecting rapid uptake. States such as Colorado and New York are considering guardrails as this trend grows.

Arc Raiders outlines four-month Escalation roadmap to April 2026

January 27, 2026, 12:44 AM EST. Arc Raiders' post-launch plan widens with a four-month Escalation roadmap, unveiled after the winter Cold Snap event. Embark Studios says Headwinds lands Jan 27, adding a new matchmaking option for high-level players, a map condition, and a player project. February introduces Shrouded Sky-recurring map conditions and more player projects. In March, Flashpoint brings another Arc threat. April closes the arc with Riven Tides, opening a new map and a previously unseen large Arc. The run follows the game's 12 million copies sold milestone and arrives as Bungie's Marathon looms in the same subgenre. The studio says narrative progression will sync with the evolving PvE experience, even as live events keep players engaged.

Apple Watch Ultra Trail Loop hits all-time lows as Blue colorway starts at $56, up to 44% off

January 27, 2026, 12:42 AM EST. 9to5Toys reports that Apple Watch Ultra bands are deep-discounted on Amazon and elsewhere. The Trail Loop in Blue/Bright Blue with Natural Titanium finishes is about $60.62; the Black Titanium finish drops to $55.58. Both are near all-time lows, with up to 44% off the MSRP of $99. The color debuted in September and deals are volatile, but these prices are unusually solid this week. Other notable sales include the Alpine Loop in Terra Cotta/Black at $80 and Light Blue/Black at $70.50; the Ocean Band options range from $75-$77. While these are official Apple bands, prices can swing quickly, so buyers should act fast.

Google to settle $68 million in Assistant recordings class-action

January 27, 2026, 12:40 AM EST. Google will settle a class-action over how it handled voice recordings captured when its devices activated unintentionally. The proposed $68 million settlement follows a 2019 VRT NWS report and centers on False Accepts where human contractors reviewed audio from Pixel phones, Google Home devices and other Assistant hardware without proper consent. Plaintiffs alleged confidential information was disclosed to third parties for advertising and other purposes; Google denies wrongdoing. If approved, payouts range from $18 to $56 for eligible device owners and $2 to $10 for those whose accounts or households were affected. Apple and Amazon faced similar cases; Apple settled for $95 million in 2025. The case underscores ongoing scrutiny of how voice assistants handle user data as platforms shift toward newer AI upgrades.

Micron stock up 28,700% since IPO; AI demand could drive further gains

January 27, 2026, 12:38 AM EST. Micron Technology sits outside the GPU-focused AI crowd, trading on its role in high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and storage. As AI deployments scale, developers are spending more capex on memory and storage rather than just GPUs, lifting Micron's revenue trajectory. The company is improving margins, with the HBM TAM expected to grow at about a 40% CAGR to roughly $100 billion by 2028. The stock has climbed about 28,700% since its 1984 IPO, and bulls argue the upcycle could extend as AI demand broadens. Valuation remains modest next to megacap peers, but risks include cyclical memory demand and supply dynamics. Investors should weigh the upside against industry cycles as Micron leverages AI momentum.

Garmin accidentally reveals Cirqa Smart Band in Canadian listing

January 27, 2026, 12:36 AM EST. Garmin appears to have leaked a new wearable, the Cirqa Smart Band, via a Canadian listing that was quickly pulled. Android Authority and a Reddit screenshot captured details: two sizes (S/M and L/XL), two colors (Black and French Gray), and a four-to-five month shipping window. The S/M fits 120-200 mm wrists; L/XL fits 145-200 mm. The post suggests an imminent launch, likely by mid-year to align with the outdoor running season, but there is no official confirmation yet. Garmin's last public update came at CES, when it announced that full nutrition tracking would arrive in Garmin Connect. A US release remains possible, though past products have shown Canada-exclusive tendencies. Full feature details and a firm release date are pending official confirmation.

Edge AI and Digital Twins Spark a New Industrial Era, CES Signals Change

January 27, 2026, 12:34 AM EST. At CES, leaders like Jensen Huang of NVIDIA and Cristiano Amon of Qualcomm framed a shift from centralized cloud to Edge AI and Digital Twins as the backbone of a faster, more human-centered economy. The show felt less like a gadget fair and more like the birth of an industrial era, where data, intelligence and virtualized environments converge. Siemens CEO Roland Busch demonstrated how Digital Twins can turn engineering tools into enterprise-wide decision engines, enabling real-time simulation, prediction and optimization across manufacturing, energy and transport. The narrative sits alongside a Moore's Law backdrop-explosive growth in computing power-that underpins scalable AI. NVIDIA and AMD have become foundational infrastructure for AI, while the move toward edge computing reframes where intelligence is applied, not just where it is computed.

Apple releases third developer betas for iOS 26.3 family, adds background security updates

January 27, 2026, 12:32 AM EST. Apple has pushed the third round of developer betas for its iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, visionOS 26.3 and macOS Tahoe 26.3. The batch follows the second beta issued Jan. 12 and the first batch Dec. 15, 2025. Apple also distributed background security updates outside the usual flow, suggesting ongoing testing. Beta 3 builds include iOS 23D5114d, iPadOS 23D5114d, watchOS 23S5611c, visionOS 23N5613b, tvOS 23K5611c and macOS Tahoe 25D5112c, replacing prior builds. The first beta added a Transfer to Android option in Settings and enabled notification forwarding to third-party wearables; the second beta referenced end-to-end encryption for RCS on iOS. Apple warns users not to install betas on mission-critical hardware and points to the public beta for broader testing.

tm:rw Store Reimagines Retail With Immersive Tech in Times Square

January 27, 2026, 12:30 AM EST. tm:rw, a three-story, 20,000-square-foot store in Times Square, opened July 2025 as a testbed for immersive technology. It blends shopping with hands-on experiences-from VR glasses trials to a robot massage and a Formula 1-inspired racing simulator. Co-founded by Nathalie Bernce and Jacov Nachtailer of Smartech Retail Group, tm:rw bills itself as a playground for imagination and adventure, highlighting home tech such as secure smartphones, LED anti-aging masks, 360-degree speakers and a zero-gravity indoor herb planter. Located on West 42nd Street in the Candler Building, the outlet targets high foot traffic from theaters, tourists and commuters. A 17-foot-tall HYPERVSN 3D hologram and other immersive displays invite visitors to engage with products beyond glass.

Qualcomm backs SpotDraft to scale on-device contract AI as valuation nears $400M

January 27, 2026, 12:24 AM EST. Qualcomm Ventures led an $8 million strategic Series B extension for SpotDraft, lifting its valuation to about $380 million-nearly double the $190 million post-money after last year's $56 million Series B. The funding backs SpotDraft's on-device contract-review tech for regulated legal workflows, addressing privacy, security, and data-governance concerns that slow cloud-based GenAI. At Qualcomm's Snapdragon Summit, SpotDraft demonstrated its VerifAI workflow running end-to-end on Snapdragon X Elite laptops, performing contract review and edits offline while keeping documents local. Internet access remains needed for login, licensing, and collaboration, but core tasks like review, risk scoring, and redlining run offline. The company frames legal as an early proving ground for on-device enterprise AI, with tight integration into Microsoft Word and playbook-based guidance.

Tesla raises FSD price as capabilities grow; outright purchase ends

January 27, 2026, 12:22 AM EST. Tesla will raise the Full Self-Driving (FSD) subscription price as the software's capabilities grow, CEO Elon Musk said this week. The current $99/month rate for supervised FSD is expected to rise, with the jump tied to when customers can ride without supervision. The move follows Tesla's plan to end outright purchases on February 14, 2026. Some owners have floated a tiered approach, with unsupervised FSD costing the most and supervised tiers priced between $49-$99/month. Tesla has not set a target for the unsupervised price. Musk has long warned prices would climb as capabilities advance; in 2020 he said the value could exceed $100,000. Pricing for the unsupervised version will come later, with further increases possible as regulatory approvals loom. FSD stands for Full Self-Driving.

Google System Updates January 2026: NFC keys, under-18 sign-in, and real-time game achievements

January 27, 2026, 12:18 AM EST. Google's January 2026 System Release Notes detail updates across Google Play services, Play Store and platform components for Android and Wear OS. Key items include: for Google Play services v26.03, enabling account sign-in for users under 18 on Automotive devices under conditions; support for NFC security keys with CTAP2 across Auto, PC, Phone, TV, Wear; data migration improvements; Wallet updates to support digital IDs and related fixes. Play Store v49.9 adds AI-organized subtasks collapse in search results; v49.8 adds real-time updates of unlocked game achievements; v49.7 allows multiple prizes selection. For Android WebView v144, security/privacy improvements and bug fixes. Android System Management updates improve stability and diagnostics across Auto, PC, Phone, TV, Wear. Some features roll out gradually.

Why Android phones are cheaper than iPhones

January 27, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. An incident in London last year underscored why iPhone devices command higher prices and enjoy stronger brand loyalty. Thieves returned an Android phone after realizing it wasn't an iPhone, underscoring the value gap and demand for Apple's product. Since 2007, Apple tightly controls software while Google offered Android as a free OS for device makers. Today, hardware and apps are similar across platforms, yet iPhone apps often debut first, reinforcing the pull of the Apple ecosystem. For Android vendors, competition runs against iPhone and other Android brands. The iPhone's value comes from premium materials, durability, long battery life, and at least five years of iOS updates, keeping devices relevant for developers and users and sustaining a premium price.

{“@context”:”https://schema.org/”,”@type”:”WebPage”,”name”:”Technology News 27.01.2026″,”url”:”https://www.bez-kabli.pl/technology-news-27-01-2026/”,”speakable”:{“@type”:”SpeakableSpecification”,”cssSelector”:[“.liveblog-header”,”h1.post-title”,”.single56__title”]}}

NHS to trial AI and robotic tools to speed lung cancer detection and diagnosis

January 27, 2026, 12:00 AM EST. NHS England will run a trial pairing AI with robotic biopsy to speed lung cancer detection and diagnosis at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust in London. The effort coincides with a pledge to offer screening to all smokers and ex-smokers by 2030, with projections showing about 50,000 lung cancers diagnosed by 2035, including 23,000 at an early stage. The technology uses AI to flag nodules as small as 6 mm, while a robotic camera guides biopsy tools to collect tissue samples for faster, more accurate analysis. NHS England says earlier detection could shorten uncertainty and reduce invasive procedures. Cancer Research UK cautions that rapid, real-world testing is needed to confirm accuracy and patient benefit.