Technology News 28.01.2026

Samsung teases pixel-level privacy layer for Galaxy S26 to curb shoulder surfing

January 28, 2026, 11:58 PM EST. Samsung has begun teasing a new layer of privacy headed for Galaxy devices, likely the Galaxy S26. In a blog post, the company says users could tailor display visibility to block prying eyes, including blackout of notifications and even shielding unlock credentials. It bills the feature as privacy at a pixel level and notes environment-based triggers that could automatically adjust what's shown in public. The teasers follow a wave of S26 rumors and leaks tied to One UI 8.5 beta, though Samsung has not confirmed a launch window. Analysts say the approach would combine hardware and software to boost protection against shoulder surfing. Some chatter suggests the feature may arrive first on the Galaxy S26 Ultra, but official details remain scarce.

Patreon to enforce Apple subscription billing by Nov. 1, 2026 as App Store mandate tightens

January 28, 2026, 11:56 PM EST. Patreon said Apple renewed a requirement that creators move to subscription billing, with a deadline of November 1, 2026. The company says it has no choice after Apple reimposed the mandate to avoid app removal from the App Store. Patreon previously tolerated charges outside Apple's system in a gray area tied to In-App Purchase limits, but that window is closing. The firm argues most creators are not using legacy billing, and fans can still avoid fees by joining Patreon via the iOS web browser. TechCrunch notes the affected share is small, around 4%. The policy shifts reflect Apple's ongoing enforcement and earlier deadline reversals since 2024.

Meta beats estimates on AI push as Zuckerberg readies testimony

January 28, 2026, 11:54 PM EST. Meta beat Wall Street expectations for the fourth quarter of 2025, reporting revenue of $59.89 billion and EPS of $8.88, topping estimates of $58.59 billion and $8.23. The results come as the company accelerates AI infrastructure spending, including a deal with Corning worth up to $6 billion for fiber cables to power data centers. CEO Mark Zuckerberg signaled continued AI expansion, aiming to blend LLMs with Meta's apps while preparing to testify in a landmark social media trial. Meta plans to spend about $162-169 billion in 2026, mostly on infrastructure and hires for AI. The company is scaling back Reality Labs, with a $6.02 billion loss on $955 million in sales, focusing more on glasses and wearables.

Meta's Reality Labs posts $19.1 billion loss in 2025 as layoffs hit VR unit, outlook for 2026 unchanged

January 28, 2026, 11:52 PM EST. Meta's Reality Labs posted a $19.1 billion loss in 2025, up from about $17.7 billion in 2024, according to the earnings report. The unit generated only about $2.2 billion in annual revenue and $955 million in Q4. Meta cut roughly 1,000 Reality Labs jobs, about 10% of the staff. CEO Mark Zuckerberg signaled cautious optimism, saying losses in 2026 would be similar while shifting investment toward glasses and wearables and aiming to make VR a profitable ecosystem, with Horizon on Mobile prioritized. Skeptics note the metaverse pivot has faced years of criticism; CNBC reported further VR studio closures and the retirement of Workrooms as Meta pivots toward AI. The path to profitability remains unclear.

Meta's Zuckerberg wins Wall Street backing to escalate AI spending

January 28, 2026, 11:50 PM EST. Meta plans to accelerate its AI push in 2026, guiding capital expenditures (capex) of $115-$135 billion, roughly double 2025. Wall Street cheered as fourth-quarter results beat on both revenue and profit and AI spend, with shares rising after the bell. CEO Mark Zuckerberg framed the effort as building infrastructure to train leading models and deliver personal super intelligence to billions of people and businesses, anchored by large-scale data centers. CFO Susan Li said the company remains capacity constrained, with compute demand outpacing supply. Investors question whether new AI products will generate revenue, though Zuckerberg said the year would feature multiple launches rather than a single product. Meta's move follows last year's $14.3 billion stake in Scale AI as part of a broader AI strategy.

Nvidia's $2 billion CoreWeave bet tests AI cloud growth amid legal scrutiny

January 28, 2026, 11:48 PM EST. Nvidia's $2 billion investment in CoreWeave, along with an expanded commercial partnership, positions CoreWeave as a more integral provider of Nvidia-powered AI workloads. CoreWeave aims to deepen AI-focused data-center capacity. However, several class-action lawsuits allege misrepresentations about the company's ability to scale infrastructure and meet customer demand, adding governance and disclosure risk to the growth story. The fresh capital and closer tie-up with Nvidia give CoreWeave preferred access to next-gen chips and a clearer role in the AI cloud ecosystem, even as investors weigh execution risk and transparency. The development underscores competition with AWS and Azure, and the tension between rapid build-out and disciplined governance. The market will watch how CoreWeave aligns contracts with disclosures.

ICE taps Palantir AI to triage immigration tips, DHS inventory shows

January 28, 2026, 11:46 PM EST. United States ICE is using Palantir's generative AI tools to sort and summarize tips submitted to its public tip line, according to the 2025 DHS AI Use Case Inventory released Wednesday. The service, called AI Enhanced ICE Tip Processing, helps investigators quickly identify and act on urgent tips and translate non-English submissions. It produces a BLUF – bottom line up front – using at least one large language model. DHS says the software is being actively authorized and reduces manual review time. The tip-processing became operational on May 2, 2025. The inventory notes ICE uses commercially available LLMs trained on public-domain data with no agency data fine-tuning. Palantir has long counted ICE as a major contractor, and a September 2025 payment mentions a Tipline and Investigative Leads Suite within ICM, a Gotham derivative. Palantir, ICE, DHS did not respond.

Halide co-founder Sebastiaan de With joins Apple's design team

January 28, 2026, 11:44 PM EST. Sebastiaan de With, co-founder of Lux and creator of Halide, is joining Apple's design team. In a post, he says he'll work on his favorite products at the company. De With is known for in-depth camera work on iPhone models and for Lux's app design and Kino's pro video features. His Halide Process Zero mode and Lux/Kino workflows illustrate a strong design POV in mobile imaging. He also notes prior design work for Apple, including iCloud/MobileMe and Find My, on his site. It's unclear how the Lux project will proceed after his departure. Apple and de With did not immediately comment. The hire adds a veteran lens on imaging to Apple's design ecosystem, aligning with ongoing hardware-software integration efforts.

Tesla posts 2025 profit drop as Musk shifts to safety and autonomy

January 28, 2026, 11:40 PM EST. Tesla reported 2025 profit of $3.8 billion, down 46% from 2024, as revenue fell 3% year over year-the first decline since 2020. Car-sale revenue dropped 10%, and overall deliveries slid 9% to 1,636,129 in 2025, with Q4 down 16%. The company will end production of the Model S and Model X and repurpose Fremont capacity to scale robotics and autonomy, including a planned robotaxi program. On the call, Musk framed the year ahead around safety, autonomy, and a broader push into robotaxi services, with dozens of city launches in 2026 and an April reveal for a next-gen Roadster. The end of the federal EV tax credit and rising competition weighed on results, even as Tesla outlined six new production lines across vehicles, robots, energy storage, and batteries.

South Korea's world-first AI laws face pushback as it seeks to become a leading tech power

January 28, 2026, 11:34 PM EST. South Korea has rolled out what officials call the world's most comprehensive AI regulation, with an AI Basic Act that took effect last week. The rules require invisible watermarks on artificial outputs and visible labels for realistic deepfakes. High-impact AI such as medical diagnostics, hiring, and loan decisions must undergo risk assessments, with humans' final decisions potentially exempting a system from that category. Extremely powerful models face safety reports, though the threshold is set so high that officials say no current model qualifies. Violations carry fines up to 30 million won, but a grace period of at least a year applies. Industry critics say startups are unprepared (a Startup Alliance survey found 98% not ready), and civil groups argue the law doesn't go far enough. Seoul aims to position itself among the world's AI leaders.

Tesla ends Model S and X production; Fremont to build Optimus humanoid robots

January 28, 2026, 11:32 PM EST. Tesla will stop producing the Model S and Model X, repurposing its Fremont factory to build the Optimus humanoid robot. On the fourth-quarter earnings call, CEO Elon Musk said the Model S and Model X programs will end with an honorable discharge and hinted buyers should consider ordering now. The move comes as Tesla, despite beating earnings estimates, posted its first annual sales decline on record. The company notes the Model 3 and Model Y remain dominant, accounting for the bulk of deliveries, with the Model 3 starting around $37,000 and the Model Y around $40,000. Musk said the Fremont line will shift to a 1 million-unit-per-year production for Optimus, a completely new supply chain, with headcount and output expected to rise.

NVIDIA at Trillion-Dollar Heights: Is It Too Late to Buy?

January 28, 2026, 11:30 PM EST. NVIDIA surged to a market cap around $5 trillion after joining the trillion-dollar club, but stocks are only attractive if valuation fits growth. For the nine months ending 26 October 2025, revenue rose about 62% YoY to $147.8 billion and net income about 52% to $77.1 billion. The company remains dominated by its data center business, underpinned by a platform that touches many AI models. Investors watch three shifts: CPU to GPU-accelerated computing, classic ML to generative AI, and the rise of agentic and physical AI. The stock trades at a P/E around 46, above the semiconductor industry average of ~40. Risks include TSMC's CoWoS packaging constraints and supply chain bottlenecks. Milestones include a $0.5 trillion backlog for Blackwell/Rubin and a potential $4 trillion in annual AI infrastructure spend.

Sega's US$5 million lifeline alleged to have saved Nvidia, Huang says

January 28, 2026, 11:28 PM EST. Jensen Huang, Nvidia's chief executive, describes a life spent in near-constant motion in a recent interview with Jodi Shelton. He notes there are three places he always lands with a sense of joy: Hawaii, Taiwan, and another locale referenced in the chat, a detail that underscores how travel informs leadership at Nvidia. The conversation, conducted amid the company's rapid growth in AI computing, highlights how a founder-turned-CEO balances pace with focus and culture. The article's headline points to a dramatic moment-an US$5 million lifeline from Sega-that Huang does not spell out in the excerpt. Still, the interview sheds light on the pressures of steering Nvidia through fast-changing tech markets.

Tesla to phase out Model S and Model X as it pivots to Optimus humanoid robots

January 28, 2026, 11:26 PM EST. Tesla will begin phasing out the Model S and Model X this year as it shifts production to the planned Optimus humanoid robots, founder Elon Musk said on a call with investors after the company reported quarterly results. The plan includes converting the Fremont, California, auto plant into a site for robot manufacturing, signaling a broader move toward autonomous systems and robotaxi services. Production of the two luxury EVs is expected to wind down next quarter, with ongoing support for current owners. Musk framed the move as essential to an autonomous future, even as the company posted a revenue decline for the year. The pivot follows 2023 price cuts aimed at lifting demand for the S and X.

Apple Watch may flag stroke risk early as AFib detection improves in two studies

January 28, 2026, 11:14 PM EST. Two clinical studies from Amsterdam UMC and St Bartholomew's Hospital show that wearable tech, notably the Apple Watch, can improve detection of atrial fibrillation (AFib), a leading cause of stroke. In Amsterdam, 437 patients aged 65+ were randomized: 219 wore the watch for 12 hours daily over six months; 218 received standard care. The wearable's photoplethysmography (PPG)-a light-based heart-rate sensor-and built-in electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor helped identify heart irregularities four times more often. In London, patients used the watch to record home ECGs after treatment and detected AFib earlier. The studies note benefits including earlier diagnosis, reduced anxiety, and fewer hospitalizations. Dr. Michiel Winter warned that wearables can speed up diagnosis for people unaware of arrhythmia. If scaled, long-term screening could improve stroke prevention.

Microsoft Maia 200 accelerates cloud ASIC race, but Nvidia's ecosystem remains core

January 28, 2026, 11:12 PM EST. Microsoft introduced Maia 200, an in-house AI inference accelerator for Azure. It touts high performance and cost efficiency, claiming threefold FP4 performance versus Amazon's Gen 3 Trainium, FP8 performance above Alphabet's TPU, and about 30% better performance per dollar than its latest generation. The chip highlights a cloud-provider trend to build substitutes for parts of Nvidia's GPU-centric AI stack. Still, Nvidia's platform is broader, pairing GPUs with networking and a strong software stack that developers rely on across models. In Nvidia's latest earnings commentary, CEO Jensen Huang acknowledged rising AI ASICs but argued Nvidia's advantage is its diverse, resilient platform rather than a single chip. Maia 200 may shave some workloads from Nvidia, but is unlikely to displace it across most AI tasks.

Nvidia aided DeepSeek AI training linked to Chinese military, lawmaker says

January 28, 2026, 11:08 PM EST. U.S. lawmakers say Nvidia helped DeepSeek optimize AI training that was later used by the Chinese military. In a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Rep. John Moolenaar cited Nvidia records detailing 'optimized co-design of algorithms, frameworks, and hardware' that allowed DeepSeek-V3 to train with '2.788M GPU hours' on H800 chips-far fewer than frontier-scale models from U.S. firms. The documents cover Nvidia activity in 2024; there was no public indication DeepSeek's tech reached the military at the time. Nvidia described the relationship as legitimate commercial support, while noting the H800 was marketed for the China market before export controls in 2023. China's embassy criticized politicization of trade and tech issues. The Commerce Department declined comment, and DeepSeek did not respond.

Oxford researchers demonstrate teleportation of logic gates across quantum computing modules

January 28, 2026, 10:56 PM EST. Oxford researchers have demonstrated teleporting a logic gate between two quantum computing modules via optical fibers, linking distant qubits without a physical bridge. Using photons to entangle modules, the team kept a Grover's algorithm running across the network, noting the speedup persisted. The Nature paper frames this as a modular path to scaling quantum computing machines, potentially easing the fragility and cooling demands of single, large processors. By distributing operations through interconnected modules, researchers Dougal Main and Beth Nichol highlight a practical route to grow quantum systems without stacking qubits in one cryogenic fridge. The result shifts how experts think about building scalable quantum devices: not one giant machine, but a networked collection that shares resources and computations.

Meta lifts 2026 capex by 73% to back superintelligence push

January 28, 2026, 10:54 PM EST. Meta on Wednesday lifted its 2026 capital expenditure plan by 73% to between $115 billion and $135 billion, funding its push into superintelligence. The increase largely funds infrastructure costs, including payments to third-party cloud providers, higher depreciation of AI data centers, and greater operating expenses. The move follows a 24% rise in Q4 advertising revenue to $58.14 billion and implies a stronger near-term revenue engine even as margins trim. Meta expects first-quarter revenue to top Wall Street estimates. CEO Mark Zuckerberg framed the year as pivotal for delivering personal AI at scale and reshaping the company's backbone. The company has also expanded ads on WhatsApp and Threads, intensifying competition with X and short-video platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts.

Halide co-founder Sebastiaan de With joins Apple's Human Interface Design team

January 28, 2026, 10:48 PM EST. Sebastiaan de With, co-founder of Halide, has joined Apple's Human Interface Design team, Apple confirmed. The move brings a returning contributor to the company after work on iCloud, MobileMe and the Find My app. He has also designed for Sony, Mozilla, Oracle, HP and EA, gaining visibility in online Apple and photography communities. Apple's design leadership has seen churn: Alan Dye left for Meta, and John Ternus was reported to oversee hardware and software design. Rumors persist of former designers joining Jony Ive at LoveFrom; Ive has also worked with OpenAI on an AR/AI device. In related news, Lux announced a public preview of Halide Mark III.

Rhode Island outlines AI strategy to train workforce, pilot programs in government

January 28, 2026, 10:46 PM EST. PROVIDENCE – Rhode Island's AI Task Force released a 75-page plan urging a statewide push to train workers, pilot AI in key government functions, and expand use in life sciences, biotech, and ocean technology. The report frames AI as a foundational shift, akin to the internet, and urges rapid action to balance opportunity with risk. Gov. Dan McKee formed the task force in 2024, chaired by former U.S. representative James Langevin. The document emphasizes workforce readiness as the bridge to impact, calling for K-12 and higher education curricula by 2030 and for teachers to embed AI, coding, and digital fluency. It recommends degrees in AI engineering and related fields and expanded apprenticeships in AI across sectors.

Tesla ends Model S/X production, shifts to Optimus robots in 2026

January 28, 2026, 10:42 PM EST. Tesla plans to wind down the Model S and Model X, with production stopping in 2026. On an earnings call, CEO Elon Musk said Fremont's production lines will be repurposed to support the company's Optimus humanoid-robot program, as the automaker pivots toward autonomous technology and robotics. The move follows a 3% drop in quarterly revenue to $24.9 billion and a full-year revenue of $94.8 billion in 2025. The Model S and X, once flagship vehicles, now compete with the lower-cost Model 3 and Model Y, which accounted for the majority of deliveries. Tesla reported a 16% quarterly drop in EV sales and delivered 1.64 million vehicles in 2025. Musk said the company will produce up to 1 million Optimus units annually, emphasizing a new supply chain distinct from existing lines.

Moltbot: The PC-bound AI assistant that automates life across apps

January 28, 2026, 10:40 PM EST. Moltbot, a precocious lobster-themed AI assistant, runs on a user's PC and connects to apps and online services to automate tasks. Dan Peguine, based in Lisbon, installed Moltbot (formerly Clawdbot) and lets it manage calendars, invoices, and morning briefings via WhatsApp or Telegram. Unlike consumer assistants, Moltbot can operate across diverse apps and the web, raising questions about security and control as users hand over credentials or card details. Industry observers and enthusiasts have hailed it as a leap akin to early ChatGPT demos; some fans post memes about running Moltbot on a Mac Mini. With its growth, there are cautions about reliance and automation in high-stakes tasks. The social buzz has even touched Cloudflare stock, though the company isn't linked to Moltbot.

Apple's Creator Studio: device requirements, AI limits and apps not updated

January 28, 2026, 10:38 PM EST. Apple's Creator Studio lays out strict system requirements and usage limits for its subscription suite. Mac apps generally run on macOS 15.6 Sequoia or later; Pixelmator Pro alone needs macOS 26 Tahoe. MainStage is Apple Silicon-only, and some Compressor features may require Apple Silicon. iPad apps require iPadOS 18.6 or 26, with Final Cut Pro and Pixelmator Pro favoring M1, A16, or A17 Pro. Generative AI features cap use at a baseline: 50 images, 50 slide decks (8-10 slides each), and 700 presenter notes in Keynote; higher usage depends on query complexity, server and network conditions. The AI is powered by OpenAI tech but does not require an OpenAI account, and user data won't be used to train models. Three apps-iMovie, GarageBand, and Photomator-are not included and aren't receiving major updates.

Samsung Q4 profit triples on AI-driven memory demand, HBM tightens supply

January 28, 2026, 10:34 PM EST. Samsung Electronics posted a record fourth-quarter profit, more than tripling year-earlier earnings and topping analyst estimates. Revenue rose about 24% to 93.8 trillion won ($65.6 billion) and operating profit reached 20.1 trillion won. The results reflect a memory-chip shortage and strong demand from AI servers, with HBM (high-bandwidth memory) prices rising as Samsung shifts more output to AI-focused products. The memory division set quarterly revenue and operating-profit records, helping lift the group across segments, including foundry and devices. Analysts note the broader market impact as suppliers prioritize capacity for AI workloads, contributing to higher chip prices in PCs and mobile devices. Samsung reaffirmed guidance near 20 trillion won in operating profit for the quarter.

Tesla to end Model S and X production to focus on Optimus robot, says Musk

January 28, 2026, 10:32 PM EST. Tesla will halt production of its Model S luxury sedan and Model X SUV this spring and convert the Fremont, California factory into an Optimus robot factory, CEO Elon Musk told investors on the January 28 earnings call. The move signals a broader shift toward autonomy, with Musk describing the era as one where only autonomous vehicles will be built, save for a next-generation Roadster. Tesla has also said it is testing fully driverless Robotaxi vehicles in Austin, Texas. From 2021 to 2025, sales of the Model S and Model X have varied, with the company reporting 9,199 and 80,702 units respectively in 2025 according to third-party trackers; earlier years show higher or lower figures. Musk called it an honorable discharge for the S and X as the company pivots to autonomy and the Optimus robot program.

Artemis II hinges on NASA's space networks for lunar communications

January 28, 2026, 10:26 PM EST. NASA's Artemis II will carry four astronauts around the Moon, highlighting the agency's push toward Mars. Throughout the mission, voices, images, and mission data traverse thousands of miles via NASA's Near Space Network and Deep Space Network, overseen by the SCaN program office. Specialists operate the networks in tandem to relay data between Orion, the Space Launch System, and mission controllers on Earth. The Mission Control Center at Johnson Space Center will track assets and manage handoffs as the crew orbits Earth, travels to the Moon, and returns. The networks support real-time communications, health and safety data, and imagery, ensuring safety and mission success as exploration extends deeper into space.

SpaceX to launch Falcon 9 from Vandenberg on Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:17 a.m. PT

January 28, 2026, 10:24 PM EST. SpaceX plans to launch a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The mission targets a 7:17 a.m. PT liftoff on Thursday, Jan. 29, with a four-hour window. An FAA advisory notes a backup opportunity the next day if conditions delay the launch. The two-stage, 230-foot booster will deploy 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit, following a southern trajectory from Space Launch Complex 4E. Public viewing is limited at the base, but several sites around Santa Barbara County offer views if weather cooperates. The launch would mark SpaceX's third Starlink deployment in a row from the West Coast and is among January missions in California.

Samsung's Magnetic Charging Puck for Galaxy S26 shows 25W Qi2 power, USB-C link

January 28, 2026, 10:20 PM EST. Photos of Samsung's Magnet Wireless Charger surface as the Galaxy S26 lineup moves toward the Qi2 standard, confirming magnet-based accessories. The device reportedly delivers up to 25W charging, a pace likely tied to the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The puck uses a standard USB-C input to connect to a power source, while cross-brand compatibility is expected for Qi2 Ready devices such as the Galaxy 25 series and Galaxy Z Fold 7. Speeds may vary by model, but the accessory is designed to operate as intended within the ecosystem. A launch date from Samsung is still pending.

Google disables Take a Message on Pixel 4 and 5 after microphone bug

January 28, 2026, 10:18 PM EST. Google confirmed a microphone bug in the Pixel Phone app's Take a Message feature that affected a very small subset of Pixel 4 and Pixel 5 devices under rare conditions. When users declined or missed calls, Take a Message could send background audio to the caller without any visible indicator beyond the mic light. Google said the issue was not widespread and could not be reproduced on a Pixel 4a. To mitigate risk, the company is disabling Take a Message and the next-gen Call Screen features on Pixel 4 and Pixel 5, devices that no longer receive Android updates. Users can still use manual or automatic Call Screening or carrier voicemail. Privacy is cited as the priority.

NASA readies Artemis II as Space Launch System rolls to launch pad

January 28, 2026, 10:16 PM EST. NASA has mounted the Space Launch System on the Kennedy Space Center pad ahead of Artemis II, the first crewed lunar mission since the 1970s. The orange-and-white behemoth is fueled with more than 700,000 gallons of liquid oxygen and hydrogen, with two solid boosters reminiscent of the space shuttle era. The four-astronaut crew-Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen-could lift off as soon as Feb. 6 for a 10-day loop around the Moon, venturing farther from Earth than any human mission. Hundreds watched as stages rolled out Jan. 17; launch date remains fluid. Artemis II, the second mission in NASA's Artemis program, aims to validate life-support, radiation shielding, docking and on-board procedures for future crewed lunar operations and to establish a sustainable lunar presence by 2030. Lead flight director Jeff Radigan underscored it is a test flight.

Tesla to end Model S and Model X in Q2 2026 to free Fremont for Optimus robot

January 28, 2026, 10:14 PM EST. Tesla will discontinue the Model S and Model X in Q2 2026, Musk said during an earnings call. The company will repurpose its Fremont factory to support production of the Optimus humanoid robot, a shift toward autonomy. "It's time to basically bring the Model S and Model X programs to an honorable discharge," he said, noting buyers should order soon. The move aligns with Tesla's pivot from niche luxury cars to mass-market models and robotics. In 2025, the two models were included in a broader "other models" category that also covers Cybertruck, and sales fell year over year. The company has faced profitability pressures while pursuing self-driving software and robotics initiatives.

NVIDIA to use Intel Foundry for 2028 Feynman GPU, mixing TSMC core with Intel nodes

January 28, 2026, 10:10 PM EST. DigiTimes reports NVIDIA plans to use Intel Foundry capacity for the 2028 Feynman AI GPU, while most core IP remains with TSMC. NVIDIA has recently taken a 5% stake in Intel and is examining IC manufacturing at Intel's 18A and 14A nodes for selected components and EMIB interconnects. The chip's core IP is expected to be built on TSMC's A16 (1.6 nm), a block estimated to account for about 75% of value; the balance would come from Intel nodes. Packaging would take place in the United States under Intel Foundry, with EMIB-based chiplet bonding handled by Intel. Feynman is expected to use newer memory standards such as HBM4e or HBM5, enabling higher memory per package to tackle trillion-parameter models. The setup signals Nvidia's broader push to diversify supply lines and leverage Intel's foundry and interconnects.

iPhone 18 Pro could feature variable aperture and teleconverter, leaker claims

January 28, 2026, 10:08 PM EST. Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models reportedly entered late-stage engineering samples for a variable aperture camera, with a teleconverter also being evaluated, according to Chinese leak account Smart Pikachu on Weibo. The devices are expected to launch in September 2026. A variable aperture could improve exposure control, especially for video, by optical light reduction to maintain natural motion blur in bright conditions. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously said the main rear camera on the iPhone 18 Pro family would feature a variable aperture, a first for the line, and a 2025 report said Apple was advancing plans and discussing components. The teleconverter claim is new; such optics in smartphones are atypical and would likely affect light intake. Apple may test multiple features in parallel, with no guarantee of mass adoption. Caution advised regarding rumors from Smart Pikachu.

Huawei teases Kipchoge-backed running smartwatch as it targets Garmin

January 28, 2026, 10:06 PM EST. Huawei is teasing a new performance wearable described as a high-end running smartwatch, backed by Eliud Kipchoge and his training team. The announcement frames the device as a move to challenge Garmin in the running-watch segment. Huawei has not disclosed specifications or a release schedule. Kipchoge's involvement signals Huawei's intent to use elite-athlete credibility to broaden its sports-tech portfolio. The effort underscores Huawei's push into fitness wearables amid intense competition in the market.

Leaker hints at improved iPhone 18 telephoto via variable aperture and teleconverter

January 28, 2026, 10:02 PM EST. A leaker better known for posting about Android devices, Smart Pikachu, posted on Weibo that Apple is prototyping variable aperture lenses and evaluating teleconverters for the iPhone 18 Pro Max and possibly the other Pro model. The claim echoes nothing Apple has publicly confirmed. In theory, a variable aperture system would offer greater control over depth of field (DoF), letting users shift from shallow to deep focus. A teleconverter could extend telephoto reach, but the idea of a built-in teleconverter for iPhone remains unclear and unlikely. Analysts caution the impact would be small, and translation errors or misunderstandings are possible. Apple has not corroborated the claim, and researchers advise treating the post as an unverified rumor.

Tesla ends Model S and Model X production to repurpose Fremont lines for Optimus robot, Musk says

January 28, 2026, 10:00 PM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said on a Wednesday earnings call that the company will give the Model S and Model X an 'honorable discharge' as it shifts away from its core EV business. The plan calls for converting the Fremont, California, production lines to build Optimus, the company's humanoid robot. The remarks reflect a broader strategy to repurpose manufacturing capacity toward higher-priority technologies, according to Musk.

PepsiCo partners with Siemens and Nvidia to deploy AI-driven digital twins across plants and supply chains

January 28, 2026, 9:58 PM EST. PepsiCo announced a multi-year collaboration with Siemens and Nvidia to transform plant and supply chain operations through digital twins and AI. A digital twin is a virtual model of a physical asset used to test changes before committing capital. The company aims to test configurations quickly and scale with less risk, executives said. Siemens CEO Roland Busch framed the effort as part of a broader move to AI-native manufacturing, while Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang described digital twins as the connective layer enabling AI-driven operations. Early pilots reported about a 20% gain in throughput and near-100% design validation, surfacing hidden capacity and issues ahead of physical changes. Athina Kanioura spoke of a future where every plant and warehouse operates as part of a single, intelligent ecosystem. The approach mirrors a wider shift in industrial digital transformation.

Tesla to end Model S and Model X production, shift to autonomy and Optimus robots

January 28, 2026, 9:56 PM EST. Tesla said on its quarterly earnings call that it will end production of the Model S sedan and Model X SUV with final versions due next quarter. CEO Elon Musk said the company will support existing owners for as long as people have the vehicles. He framed the move as a transition toward a future built on autonomy. After the final runs in Fremont, California, the factory will be repurposed to build Optimus robots, Musk said. The two vehicles, launched in 2012, helped popularize electric cars, but sales have plateaued as competition widens. Tesla has long aimed its affordable Model 3 and Model Y to outsell the older models. The company's focus is shifting to autonomy and robot technology.

Tesla to end Model S and Model X by Q2 2026, Musk says

January 28, 2026, 9:54 PM EST. Tesla will discontinue the Model S and Model X by the end of Q2 2026, CEO Elon Musk announced on the Q4 2025 earnings call. The flagship models-launched in 2012 and 2015-have seen demand erode as competition improved. Tesla stopped breaking out S/X deliveries in 2023, lumping them with other models; 2025 numbers were likely around 30,000 for the pair when excluding the Cybertruck and Semi. Fremont has about 100,000 units of annual capacity, but utilization has been far lower for years. A modest 2024-25 refresh failed to reinvigorate sales. The move ends an era and shifts focus to higher-volume products; rivals such as Lucid and Rivian have narrowed the gap. Musk cited Autonomy as the rationale.

Ceredigion council backs smartphone-free childhood campaign

January 28, 2026, 9:52 PM EST. Ceredigion council backs a campaign promoting a smartphone-free childhood. The move underscores a push to curb device use among children. Some parents are skeptical, arguing smartphones help them know where their children are, highlighting a debate between safety and independence.

Toyota touts 745-mile solid-state battery and 10-minute charge window ahead of 2027 rollout

January 28, 2026, 9:42 PM EST. Toyota is advancing solid-state batteries that could extend EV range and slash charging times. The company claims a 745-mile single charge and around 10 minutes to recharge, with a market introduction possible in 2027 or 2028. Toyota cites range anxiety as a barrier and argues the technology could shift consumer choices. Separately, Toyota will join Tesla's Supercharger network in North America and will adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS) on vehicles from 2025, easing long-distance charging. Toyota remains cautious on deployment tempo, signaling volume growth only after early deployment. Life-cycle emissions for EVs are lower than internal combustion engines, and recycling helps reduce demand for raw materials. A timely solid-state rollout could reshape the EV landscape.

Toyota targets 745-mile solid-state battery with 10-minute charge for 2027 rollout

January 28, 2026, 9:40 PM EST. Toyota revisits its push into solid-state batteries, claiming a potential 745-mile single charge and a 10-minute recharge for future EVs. The company targets market availability in 2027 or 2028, while acknowledging cautious rollout. Toyota also linked its charging strategy to Tesla's Supercharger network in North America, signing an agreement to give Toyota customers access to about 12,000 fast charges and adopting the North American Charging Standard (NACS) from 2025 to simplify long-distance trips. Environmental checks show lower lifecycle pollution for EVs versus internal-combustion engines, and recycling gains reduce demand for mined materials. Analysts note consumer adoption hinges on range and charging convenience, issues Toyota aims to address with solid-state tech, faster charging, and expanded public infrastructure.

Leaker hints at iPhone 18 telephoto boost with variable aperture lens

January 28, 2026, 9:36 PM EST. An Android-leaning leaker going by Smart Pikachu posted on Weibo that the iPhone 18 lineup could feature a telephoto boost via variable aperture lenses, with prototypes under evaluation and teleconverters considered. The post suggests the change may apply to the iPhone 18 Pro Max only or to both Pro models. Apple watchers say the impact would be modest: greater control of depth of field and an expanded zoom range, but it's unlikely to be dramatic. The report lacks corroboration and may reflect a mistranslation or misunderstanding of other Apple telephoto moves; no official confirmation has surfaced.

Google brings Nano Banana image generator and Gemini-powered features to Chrome

January 28, 2026, 9:26 PM EST. Google is rolling out a set of Gemini-powered updates in Chrome, expanding its AI suite beyond apps. A new sidebar lets users chat with Gemini across open tabs and keep conversations flowing. In Chrome, users can access Nano Banana, Google's in-house image generator, without leaving the browser or uploading files. The feature also enables editing existing images directly in the sidebar. Google plans to bring Personal Intelligence to Chrome later this year to remember past conversations and tailor the browsing experience. The rollout leverages Connected Apps, pulling data from Gmail and Calendar; demonstrations showed Gemini retrieving dates from an inbox. Google also previewed an auto browse capability that can draft a plan before shopping for items from a user's history.

Google rolls Gemini-powered tools into Chrome, adds Nano Banana image generator

January 28, 2026, 9:24 PM EST. Google is expanding Gemini's footprint in Chrome with a new sidebar that lets users chat with Gemini across tabs, aiding multitasking. The feature, rolling out to Gemini in Chrome users, lets you compare options, summarize reviews and coordinate events across calendars. The company also brings Nano Banana, its in-house image generator, directly into the browser so you can create or edit images from any open tab without opening a separate app. Google also previews Personal Intelligence in Chrome, a feature promised to remember past Gemini conversations to tailor help. The update includes Connected Apps integration with Gmail and Calendar, and a new auto browse capability demonstrated by planning and executing a shopping task via email and search.

Intel Panther Lake laptops: full Core Ultra Series 3 lineup and models

January 28, 2026, 9:22 PM EST. Intel's Panther Lake is the new mobile platform for 2026, billed as Core Ultra Series 3. The roster spans three sub-lineups designed for different devices: Core Ultra 5/7 300 up to Core Ultra 7 365 for ultraportables; Core Ultra X7/X9 300H up to X9 388H with Arc B390 graphics for high-performance slim laptops; and Core Ultra 7/9 300H up to 9 386H for high-end portable notebooks with optional discrete GPUs. The system combines Cougar Cove performance cores and Darkmont efficiency cores on an 18A process, with up to 16 CPU cores, Battlemage Xe graphics, XeSS3, and up to 20 PCIe lanes and Thunderbolt 5. The piece previews how each sub-line fits different user needs and promises a complete notebook list built on Panther Lake hardware.

Google expands Gemini in Chrome with side panel, Auto Browse and Nano Banana edits

January 28, 2026, 9:20 PM EST. Google expanded Gemini inside Chrome with a revised side panel, larger and non-intrusive, and a new Auto Browse mode that can take the wheel online. The Gemini companion now sits to the right of the page, letting users compare its answers with the current site and switch between tabs more easily. The Nano Banana image editor can be launched via a right-click on any image or prompted in the side panel, streamlining edits without downloading. Google said safety protections are in place, citing policies against sexually explicit content and guardrails against violent or offensive outputs. The change emphasizes accessibility rather than new image-generation features, though questions about copyright and misuse linger in the debate on how AI tools touch existing content.

Chrome expands Gemini AI with side panel, Auto Browse and Nano Banana image edits

January 28, 2026, 9:18 PM EST. Google expands Gemini in Chrome with a scrollable side panel that sits to the right of a page, making AI-assisted browsing less obtrusive. The update moves the former top box into a larger omnipanel and preserves the ability to reference multiple tabs in prompts. It also adds Nano Banana image editing, letting users right-click an image to edit it in the side panel or start edits via natural language. Google showcased Auto Browse, which lets Gemini take the wheel while you browse. The company cites safety policies and guardrails to curb outputs, but did not address copyright concerns around easier image editing.

Tesla pivots to robotics and AI as car sales falter

January 28, 2026, 9:12 PM EST. Tesla posted a mixed Q4, delivering $0.50 a share on $24.9 billion revenue, beating Wall Street's forecast, even as automotive revenue fell 11% in 2025 and Q4 deliveries declined 16% year over year, pressured by Europe. The results underscore a shift Elon Musk describes as moving from a hardware-centric business to a AI-driven, robotics-focused company. Musk has cast Optimus and autonomous Robotaxis as future engines, with production slated before the end of 2026 and public sale in 2027. Tesla also plans a $2 billion investment in xAI. Meanwhile, Cybertruck demand slid 48%, and BEV maker BYD overtook Tesla in 2025. The stock swung after hours on the news.

Amazfit smartwatch users gain new feature in app update

January 28, 2026, 9:08 PM EST. An update to the Amazfit companion app adds a new feature for smartwatch users. The change is visible in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store listings. Reddit user u/EvilTeacher-34 first surfaced the update, with the story picked up by Gadgets and Wearables.

Anthropic at war with itself as safety and speed collide in AI race

January 28, 2026, 9:06 PM EST. Anthropic operates at cross purposes. The firm, valued at about $183 billion, positions itself as the AI industry's superego, preaching safety even as it races to ship more capable products to outpace rivals like OpenAI and Google. CEO Dario Amodei expanded that stance in a Davos-era essay on the 'adolescence of technology,' warning of powerful AI threats to democracy, security and the economy. Inside the company, safety researcher Sam Bowman vets every product before release to curb outputs such as white-supremacist rhetoric or nonconsensual content. So far Claude has avoided major public missteps, unlike rivals, but critics say the risk of future failures remains. Anthropic's internal tension-between cautious ethics and market pressure-defines its current posture.

Tesla brings 4680 battery cells back to Model Y to hedge tariffs

January 28, 2026, 9:04 PM EST. Tesla said in its Q4 2025 shareholder update that it has begun producing Model Y packs with its 4680 cells, aiming to diversify supply amid tariff risks and lingering trade barriers. The company frames the move as a supply-chain hedge, not a reboot of the original 4680 rollout. Tesla also said it is advancing domestic battery work, with dry-electrode 4680 cells using Texas anode and cathode production; it expects domestic cathode material in Texas and LFP lines in Nevada to start in 2026. The company notes the disclosed figures reflect installed capacity-capacity, not actual output. The 4680 program has a turbulent history, from initial promises of cheaper batteries to a parked project as the Cybertruck consumed most of the cells, then a late-stage revival.

AI reshapes religion as faith leaders weigh tools and human connection

January 28, 2026, 8:56 PM EST. AI is entering religion life, prompting caution and adoption. Pope Leo XIV warns AI could dull emotional life, while the Mormon church embraces AI as a learning aid that complements, not replaces, a direct relationship with God. Secular observers note that current AI systems know more about the Bible, Quran and other texts than many human scholars and can provide answers to questions. The debate centers on whether machines should guide belief or simply support inquiry, and on how AI intersects with doctrine, pastoral care, and personal faith.

Artemis II SLS pre-launch test set for weekend amid weather checks

January 28, 2026, 8:54 PM EST. NASA is advancing toward Artemis II's final major pre-launch test this weekend. The four astronauts are in quarantine at Johnson Space Center, and the Orion spacecraft sits atop the 322-foot Space Launch System on Launch Complex 39B at the Kennedy Space Center. A wet dress rehearsal is planned as soon as Saturday, Jan. 31, with a simulated liftoff around 9 p.m. ET that could run to 1 a.m. If tests progress, NASA could announce a launch date within the available windows; problems could pull the rocket back to the Vehicle Assembly Building for troubleshooting. The core stage runs on cryogenic propellants-liquid oxygen at −297°F and liquid hydrogen at −423°F-kept ultra-cold. Florida weather, including possible subfreezing temperatures, will be watched against weather criteria governing countdowns.

Tesla earnings update: Analysts eye AI roadmap as shares slide YTD

January 28, 2026, 8:52 PM EST. Tesla reported quarterly results after the bell, highlighting progress on its AI roadmap and software ambitions. Executives described work on Dojo-powered training and autonomous features, and reiterated plans to scale energy services. The report comes as the stock is down about 4% YTD and investors seek clarity on margins and capital efficiency. Analysts asked for firmer timelines and cash-flow visibility while acknowledging the potential payoff from higher-margin software and robotics. Tesla cited near-term costs tied to production ramp, AI hardware, and supplier costs. While sentiment remains cautiously optimistic, the company faces questions about profitability, timing, and how quickly AI features translate into revenue.

YouTuber powers entire home with a single 60kWh EV battery and inverter

January 28, 2026, 8:50 PM EST. A garage tinkerer used a BYD 60kWh EV battery paired with a high-voltage solar inverter to power a home. The setup included a battery emulator to translate EV-pack signals for a home-inverter, plus safety protections. The system delivered roughly 7,800 watts and showed real-time data on battery temperature, charge percentage, and network status. The project cost about $1,650 for a pack with around 100 cycles, making it tempting for hobbyists with proper safety. The creator notes you don't need a crane-sized pack; smaller 20-40kWh EV bundles can fit many homes. The YouTuber's focus is experimental, but it demonstrates cross-domain use of EV hardware.

Google adds Gemini AI-powered auto browse to Chrome

January 28, 2026, 8:48 PM EST. Google is adding an AI-powered feature named auto browse inside Chrome that can perform multi-step tasks. The Gemini-powered tool is available to Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers in the US and can research flight and hotel costs, compare options across tabs, fill forms, manage subscriptions, and act within connected apps like Gmail, Calendar, Maps, and Google Flights. The update expands Gemini from a passive question-answering assistant to a task-driven agent, able to recognize items in photos, find similar products, apply discounts, and, when needed, use the browser's password manager to log in. Google also moved Gemini in Chrome to a right-side panel and added Nano Banana for image generation. Google plans broader rollouts in the coming months as it rivals Atlas and Comet.

Starlink seeks BEAD grants as satellites win a slice of funding after NTIA rewrite

January 28, 2026, 8:42 PM EST. Starlink and other satellite services are pursuing BEAD grants after the NTIA rewrote program rules under the Trump era. The changes aim to fund satellite networks but leave terrestrial deployment rules mostly intact. Early allocations show satellite providers receiving about 5% of BEAD money while serving roughly 22% of funded locations. SpaceX is set to receive about $733.5 million to reach 472,600 locations; Amazon's Leo project would get $311 million for 415,000 locations. Critics from the Benton Institute warn the adjustments expand LEO participation, while loosening penalties, reporting requirements, and labor standards. They say BEAD was designed for fiber deployments and is harder to map to extraterrestrial networks. NTIA's 2025 restructuring intensifies questions about accountability and how to apply terrestrial rules to LEO-based networks.

iOS 26: Tuning Messages Screen Unknown Senders improves real-message delivery

January 28, 2026, 8:38 PM EST. Apple's iOS 26 adds Screen Unknown Senders to Messages, quietly filtering suspected spam behind a filter icon and removing push notifications for those messages. The feature can be customized from Settings > Apps > Messages > Unknown Senders > Allow Notifications, which only appears when Screen Unknown Senders is enabled. There are four categories you can toggle: Time Sensitive, Personal, Transactions, and Promotions. Initially the author kept only Time Sensitive on, which led to missed messages from real people. Turning on Personal fixed the issue while still keeping other spam messages quiet. The result: Unknown Senders stay out of your main stream unless you opt in, and time-sensitive alerts continue. Readers can experiment with the four toggles to balance alerts against spam.

Tesla commits $2 billion to xAI in Series E funding amid fiduciary lawsuit

January 28, 2026, 8:36 PM EST. Tesla disclosed in its Q4 2025 earnings update that it will invest about $2 billion to buy Series E preferred stock in Elon Musk's xAI. The financing valued xAI at roughly $230 billion, with Tesla taking about 10% of the round but less than 1% of the company. Other participants include Nvidia, Cisco, Qatar's sovereign wealth fund and Fidelity. The investment comes as Tesla faces a shareholder lawsuit alleging Musk diverted AI talent and resources to xAI, potentially harming Tesla's interests. Tesla cites its Master Plan Part IV to justify blending AI into the physical world and says the new framework agreement with xAI will govern future collaboration. Regulators' customary conditions are expected to allow a close in Q1 2026. Musk has said Tesla did not need xAI to build AI products.

GAO flags risks in Space Development Agency missile-tracking satellite program

January 28, 2026, 8:34 PM EST. The Government Accountability Office warned the Space Development Agency is moving faster than its technology and management can support in the plan to deploy a large Tracking Layer constellation to detect missile launches, including hypersonics. The program, priced at about $35 billion through FY2029, relies on a Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) built in tranches with new satellites roughly every two years. GAO cited optimistic technology readiness for spacecraft and ground systems and warned SDA may not deliver capabilities on schedule. Issues include a lack of an overarching architecture-level schedule, and uncertain life-cycle costs because contractors provided limited data in early tranches. The report urges more realism and transparency as SDA refines requirements and cost estimates.

Nvidia GPU prices spike as AI demand and RAM shortage squeeze supply

January 28, 2026, 8:32 PM EST. Prices for Nvidia GeForce RTX graphics cards have surged as AI data-center RAM demand tightens supply. The RTX 5080 is trading roughly $500 above its $1,000 launch price on Newegg. The RTX 5090 is listed near $5,000 in some listings, far from the originally planned $2,000 base price. The RAM shortage, driven by AI workloads, has rippled through consumer GPUs. Nvidia says memory supply is constrained but will continue to ship all GeForce SKUs and works with suppliers to maximize memory availability. AIB partners-the add-in-board makers such as Zotac-are feeling the pressure; Zotac Korea warned the situation could threaten the future of card manufacturers and called the RTX 5060 price 'staggering.' Separately, reports say Nvidia ended a cashback program with AIBs, complicating sourcing. Gizmodo reached out to Nvidia for comment.

CSDA Adds Satellogic and Vantor Data to SDX Satellite Data Explorer

January 28, 2026, 8:26 PM EST. NASA's Commercial Satellite Data Acquisition program added new data products from Satellogic and Vantor to the Satellite Data Explorer (SDX). The first product is a Level 1D Orthorectified multispectral archive from Satellogic, equivalent to a NASA Level 1C product, delivering 99-centimeter resolution with Top of Atmosphere radiometric correction from Satellogic's NewSat constellation. Vantor contributes 30-cm black-and-white and color imagery from its 125-petabyte archive dating to 1999, derived from the Legion satellites with 8-band visible and near-infrared data. Also added are three elevation products: DSM at 1 m, DTM bare-earth at 1 m, and an Elevation Bundle combining DSM and DTM at 1-, 2-, and 4-meter resolutions. Access via Earthdata login and governed by the USG EULA; quote from CSDA's Dana Ostrenga.

Apple Watch helps detect AF recurrence after ablation and reduces unplanned hospitalizations, study finds

January 28, 2026, 8:22 PM EST. London – A 168-patient, single-center trial at St Bartholomew's Hospital assessed post-ablation monitoring with an Apple Watch Series 5 over 12 months. The watch group performed daily ECG recordings prompted by the device; controls received standard follow-up at 3, 6 and 12 months. The study found higher AF recurrence detection in the watch group, with a median time to detection of 116 days versus 132 days in controls. Paroxysmal AF drove much of the difference (52.9% vs 34.9%). Unplanned hospitalizations were lower among watch wearers (22 vs 47). Researchers said wearable-based monitoring can provide rapid differentiation of AF from benign symptoms, shorten detection time, and support integration into postablation care pathways.

AI boom in San Francisco masks ongoing tech-job losses in 2025

January 28, 2026, 8:20 PM EST. San Francisco remains a hub for AI, but its job market weakened in 2025. Data from the California EDD show the combined city and county shed 4,400 jobs, about 0.4%, with the information sector down about 4% (roughly 4,500 positions). Professional and business services also declined. Leisure and hospitality led gains, adding 4,500 jobs as in-person activity rebounded. In-city job listings fell 37% from February 2020 to October 2025, per Indeed. Economist Enrico Moretti said AI hiring isn't offsetting losses at legacy tech firms. Bay Area layoffs totaled about 40,000 in 2025 (Layoffs.fyi), and OpenAI plus Anthropic employ under 10,000 combined. Meta cut over 1,000 Reality Labs roles; Pinterest trimmed 15%. Some firms use AI to boost productivity while trimming headcount.

Tesla shares rise after Q4 earnings beat; Optimus robots on track for end-2026 production

January 28, 2026, 8:18 PM EST. Tesla beat expectations for Q4 with revenue of $24.90 billion and adjusted EPS of $0.50, while operating income reached $1.41 billion. The gross margin surprised at 20.1% versus a 17.1% estimate, helping the stock rally in after-hours trading, up more than 3%. The company reiterated that its Optimus robots are on track for an end-2026 start of production, with Optimus V3 due in Q1 and six new production lines planned across its products. Tesla also outlined a path for robotaxi expansion and noted FSD subscriptions doubled in 2025, pursuing regulatory approvals in China and Europe. The firm will invest $2 billion in preferred shares of xAI. Earlier, Q4 deliveries totaled 418,227, a 15% drop from a year earlier.

Galaxy S26 Ultra leaks: Europe pricing and 6-color cases amid DRAM-cost pressures on iPhone 18

January 28, 2026, 8:16 PM EST. DRAM cost surges are shaping pricing talks around Samsung and Apple. Ming-Chi Kuo says Samsung could lift Apple memory costs by up to 80% QoQ, pressuring the bill of materials and potentially product pricing. Apple plans to absorb the increase and keep the iPhone 18 starting price at $799. Apple negotiates memory pricing quarterly; analysts expect Q2 2026 increases after Q1's year-on-year jumps of 10-25%. Even with higher costs, most brands won't secure memory chips, but Apple can, giving it leverage. The Galaxy S26 is also seen with higher prices in South Korea, amid AI-driven shortages in LPDDR and NAND. Apple will offset costs via services and storage upsells, preserving margins. The broader takeaway: Apple's leverage relies on locking in chips and monetizing the ecosystem later.

Tesla earnings live: Autopilot subscriptions, NACS rollout, and energy pivot

January 28, 2026, 8:14 PM EST. Tesla faces several crosswinds as earnings coverage unfolds. A slate of new low-cost EVs could sharpen competition, with Slate Auto aiming for a mid-$20,000 price and a 150-mile range, featuring minimal amenities. Meanwhile, more models adopt native access to the NACS charging standard, expanding Tesla-style charging beyond its own network and easing long trips for buyers using vehicles like the Rivian R1S, Subaru Solterra, and Hyundai Ioniq 9. On software, Tesla's Autopilot is shifting to a subscription model at $99/month, drawing comparisons with GM's Super Cruise offering that is free for three years before a $39.99 monthly fee. Separately, Tesla signals a broader pivot toward becoming a power company, expanding its energy businesses.

Tesla Q4 Beats Estimates; Cybercab, Semi on Track for 1H26, xAI Investment

January 28, 2026, 8:08 PM EST. Tesla reported Q4 earnings that beat estimates: adjusted EPS $0.50 on revenue of $24.9 billion, vs. $0.44 and $24.5 billion expected. GAAP EPS was $0.24; net income $840 million. Operating margin 5.7%, gross margin 20.1%. The company said Cybercab and Semi production will begin in 1H26 as it bets on autonomous vehicles and robotics. It disclosed roughly $2 billion in xAI funding behind the Grok model. For 2026, Tesla will expand infrastructure for clean energy and autonomous transport, and plans to more than double onsite compute in Texas using H100 equivalents. It will begin volume production of Megapack 3, Megablock, and the next-gen Roadster; and produce 4680 cells with dry-electrode chemistry for Model Y. Analysts will watch the Robotaxi rollout.

HEO buys Satellogic's NewSat-34, renames Continuum-1, to expand in-orbit imaging and R&D

January 28, 2026, 8:04 PM EST. Australian firm HEO has bought Satellogic's NewSat-34 satellite in a deal announced Jan. 26. The spacecraft, launched three years ago and renamed Continuum-1, will be used for research and development and to expand HEO's non-Earth imaging (NEI) capabilities-imaging other space objects-while the asset's Earth-observation work remains limited to partnerships. Less than 20% of Continuum-1's capacity will be used for Earth imaging; the rest will support NEI. HEO will not conduct Earth imaging with the satellite; government and commercial partners will. The move marks a milestone for Australia, giving the country its first sub-meter-resolution, Australian-owned satellite. Executives from HEO and Satellogic framed the sale as value-realizing for an aging asset and a path to sovereignty and faster access.

ARC Raiders' three-strike cheater ban policy draws mixed reactions

January 28, 2026, 7:58 PM EST. ARC Raiders is rolling out a three-strikes progressive anti-cheat ban. Bans would escalate from 30 days to 60 days and culminate in a permaban for repeat offenders. Developers say the policy reflects zero tolerance for cheating, but critics warn about false positives that could flag innocent players. The plan follows widespread complaints from players and streamers, given the game's high-stakes PvP and the risk of losing an entire loadout. Some compare it with other shooters' harsher stances, while others note bans are rarely absolute in practice. The change is not yet live, and Embark may adjust before rollout to mitigate abuse or manual review gaps.

Apple tests telephoto converter lenses for iPhone 18 Pro to boost zoom

January 28, 2026, 7:54 PM EST. Apple is reportedly evaluating teleconverter lenses for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro lineup, a path already explored by Android rivals. Weibo leaker Smart Pikachu said Apple is testing add-on telephoto extenders, expanding long-range zoom. Vivo's X200 Ultra and OPPO Find X9 Pro exemplify the new generation, with converters that turn existing telephoto or periscope cameras into longer-reach shooters. The tech can deliver ~8x-10x magnification, aided by lossless-resolution cropping. Samsung's Galaxy S7 era offered a 2x add-on lens, but current Galaxy models have not adopted this approach. Tradeoffs include bulk, cost, and the need to detach the lens to use other rear cameras. Cross-brand lens compatibility remains a future topic.

Apple and Nvidia weigh Intel for 2028 chip production amid tariffs and geopolitical pressure

January 28, 2026, 7:52 PM EST. Apple and Nvidia are weighing outsourcing some processor production and packaging to Intel in the United States by 2028, driven by tariffs, geopolitical pressure and capacity constraints, per DigiTimes. Neither company has confirmed the plans. The talks reportedly center on using Intel's 18A or 14A process technologies, but questions remain about whether Intel can supply the needed capacity and whether Apple and Nvidia can port designs from TSMC nodes without performance loss. The discussions reflect a broader risk diversification strategy and U.S. policy aims that favor domestic semiconductor manufacturing. Apple has already transitioned to in-house silicon for Macs since 2020; producing vanilla M-series chips in the U.S. could be pursued if policy goals are met. Nvidia is said to consider a similar path for non-core products.

Disney Afternoon Collection surfaces on Switch eShop for Switch 1 & 2, adds Goof Troop and Bonkers

January 28, 2026, 7:40 PM EST. A listing on the Japanese Nintendo eShop for Disney Afternoon Collection appears for Switch 1 and Switch 2, signaling a Western rollout to follow. The listing, first noted by VGC, shows the package at 2,300 yen with a 10% pre-order discount and a February 26, 2026 release date. An ESRB rating tipped the reveal earlier. The package is said to include 1993's Goof Troop and 1994's Bonkers, both previously unreleased in the collection, alongside the existing NES/SNES titles. Digital Eclipse is the developer; Atari the publisher cited in listings. No Western store pages are live yet, but a broader rollout is expected, with official confirmation likely to come from Digital Eclipse or Atari.

Anthropic CEO slams U.S. chip export rules at Davos, targets Nvidia partnership

January 28, 2026, 7:34 PM EST. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei used Davos to question the U.S. decision to ease export controls on Nvidia's H200 GPUs and an AMD chip line, arguing the move will backfire. He told Bloomberg's editor-in-chief that U.S. policy risks ceding advantage in AI to rivals and warned of incredible national security implications from models that amount to cognition. Amodei called the export stance 'crazy,' likening it to selling nuclear weapons to North Korea. Nvidia, a key investor and partner in Anthropic, supplies the GPUs that power its Claude-based AI, and Anthropic has deep ties with cloud providers. He suggested the administration's stance could slow U.S. leadership in AI, even as Anthropic pursues a multi-billion-dollar funding round and growth in its Claude ecosystem.

Niantic Expands Street-Corner and Bus-Stop PokéStops to US in Test

January 28, 2026, 7:30 PM EST. Niantic has expanded its test to add Niantic-generated PokéStops in the United States, following earlier trials in France, Italy and Spain. The stops appear at pedestrian-friendly locations such as street corners and bus stops in areas with low Wayspots density. Niantic says these changes are experimental and not submitted via the Wayfarer nomination system. The stops will be named consistently ("Street corner at street name A and street name B" or "bus stop name") and will feature a Niantic-generated photo. They cannot become gyms, but can contribute to the number of PokéStops in a cell to trigger gyms. The rollout is limited to the 50 states; territories like Puerto Rico are excluded. Niantic will monitor performance of the US deployments along with the European sites.

Pinterest valuation tests AI pivot after restructuring; fair value near $36.93 vs $23.41 price

January 28, 2026, 7:28 PM EST. Pinterest faces a critical test of its AI-driven turnaround after a restructuring that cuts up to 15% of its staff and trims office space. The moves aim to accelerate AI-focused products and roles, but the stock has weakened further: a 1-day decline and a 90-day drop, contributing to a roughly -28.84% 12-month return per Simply Wall St. Pinterest trades around $23.41, with a stated fair value narrative near $36.93, implying an intrinsic discount. Analysts say AI-enabled visual search and personalized content curation could lift ARPU and margins, but acknowledge execution risk and exposure to ad pricing, privacy rules, and international monetization. The valuation hinges on demand and data rules. Readers can explore the underlying narrative to assess assumptions and risks.

Neil Young targets Apple, Verizon in anti-Trump boycott

January 28, 2026, 7:26 PM EST. Two days after attacking Amazon for Jeff Bezos' Trump ties, Neil Young expanded his campaign against tech giants Apple and Verizon. In a post on the Neil Young Archives, he says he will stop using a Verizon flip phone and halt upgrades to his Apple gear, accusing the companies of backing Trump and the regime. He mentions considering a switch to T-Mobile and warns he could sue Apple if a critical upgrade breaks his computer. He links to a list of CEOs-including Amazon, Meta, Apple, Verizon-and urges readers to contact them about their business with ICE. Young also held a live Zoom chat with premium Archives members, where he said he's written six songs for his next album.

Apple's design ethos challenged as Liquid Glass faces UX critique

January 28, 2026, 7:24 PM EST. Apple rolled out Liquid Glass in June 2025 to make every user interaction feel 'joyful,' a design language applied across iPhone, Apple Watch and Apple TV. The concept-translucent, liquid-like screens-aimed to extend Steve Jobs's insistence that design and user experience be non-negotiable. But after OS 26 shipped last September, critics pointed to slow or counterintuitive animations, jarring color shifts, busy icons, poor contrast and energy-hungry effects that lack payoff. A NN/g review described the system as fluid at first glance, but awkward in use; Wired called it awful, arguing users won't tolerate revenue-draining friction. The upheaval reportedly led to the departure of Alan Dye, Apple's VP of human interface design, though Tim Cook reaffirmed that design remains a priority. The critique centers on the transparency of Liquid Glass undermining usability and standard muscle memory in interaction.

Galaxy S26 pricing could dodge RAM inflation, stay near S25 prices

January 28, 2026, 7:18 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S26 series could keep price points steady despite rising memory costs, a leaker says. The post from analyst Tim Quandt suggests Samsung is absorbing higher materials costs to launch the S26 lineup at roughly the same prices as the S25. There should be no free preorder upgrades, he adds. In numbers, base S26 models sit near last year's pricing, while the Ultra is about €100 cheaper for 256GB and 512GB. The S26U 1TB price is unchanged from last year. Caution is warranted: the data covers markets in euros and may not map to the US. Still, the note implies Samsung may dodge AI-driven RAM inflation this generation, albeit with thinner margins.

Apple enters its Microsoft era as platforms mature

January 28, 2026, 7:12 PM EST. Apple is transitioning from spectacle to a mature platform that turns its installed base into recurring revenue. The iPhone is becoming the backbone, a system you rely on like Windows; Services is the high-margin layer atop that base. Analysts still expect a strong holiday quarter, with revenue around $138.4 billion and EPS near $2.67, but execution will be tested as the market assigns a software-and-services multiple to a maturing product cycle amid regulatory scrutiny. The stock ride mirrors that shift: a near-$4 trillion cap, yet a history of pullbacks and a debate about what comes next. In short, Apple looks more like Microsoft than a pure hardware maker-where being boring is acceptable, but relevance isn't.

SpaceX targets mid-March for first flight of bigger Starship Version 3, Musk says

January 28, 2026, 7:10 PM EST. SpaceX plans a mid-March test flight for Starship's bigger Version 3 (V3), Elon Musk said on X. It will be Starship's 12th flight and the first with the taller, more powerful vehicle. V3 stands about 408.1 feet tall, up from 403.9 feet, and is designed to lift more than 100 tons to low Earth orbit (LEO), versus roughly 35 tons for V2. The upgrade relies on Raptor 3 engines. Flight 12 follows a hiccup when the Super Heavy booster buckled during November tests, delaying the mission. If successful, SpaceX could advance in-space refueling and orbit tests, potentially enabling a small fleet of uncrewed Starships bound for Mars later this year.

Honor reportedly plans wider 4:3 foldable to challenge Samsung and Apple

January 28, 2026, 7:08 PM EST. According to a Weibo tipster, Honor is planning major changes to its foldable lineup. The report says the Magic Vs series could be entirely replaced with a new wide foldable. The main Magic V lineup remains on track for its next installment next month, and the V Flip successor reportedly will not arrive in 2026. The new device is described as wider, with a 4:3 aspect ratio, which would dwarf the current Magic Vs3. Unlike Samsung's rumored approach, Honor is reportedly replacing its affordable Magic Vs lineup rather than extending it. Apple is expected to pursue a similar form factor for its foldable; Samsung may position a 4:3 device between the Z Fold8 and Z TriFold if true. The leaks reference an Honor Magic V5.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold priced at $2,900 sets premium foldable benchmark

January 28, 2026, 7:06 PM EST. The Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold arrives with a twin-hinged design and a 10-inch inner screen, launching January 30 in the US ahead of the Galaxy S26. The price tag is startling: a starting $2,900, making it the most expensive Samsung smartphone yet and a new ceiling for foldables. By contrast, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 starts at $2,000 with 256GB and tops out around $2,420 at 1TB. The TriFold uses a titanium hinge system rated for about 200,000 folds and is 3.9mm thick when unfolded, approaching Huawei Mate XT's 3.6mm. It ships with a customized Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, 512GB of storage, and a 5,600mAh battery with 45W charging. Huawei's competing model is pricier and lands with Google app compatibility caveats on US carriers.

Apple pushes Patreon iOS billing deadline to 2026, maintaining 30% App Store cut on creator payments

January 28, 2026, 7:04 PM EST. Apple has extended the deadline for Patreon creators to switch to the App Store in-app purchase system to November 1, 2026, according to TechCrunch. The shift keeps Patreon creators under iOS app billing rules, with Apple collecting a 30% commission on subscriptions and purchases, dipping to 15% after a year. Patreon says the move, originally set for November 2025, could trigger removal from the App Store if not complied. Creators can either raise prices in the iOS app or absorb the fee, while prices on other platforms stay the same. TechCrunch notes only about 4% of Patreon's creators still use the legacy billing system; Patreon has published an FAQ.

NASA's Artemis 2 moon rocket on launch pad gets 24-hour livestream

January 28, 2026, 6:56 PM EST. NASA's Artemis 2 Space Launch System rocket sits on Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with a 24/7 livestream on YouTube and the agency window. Visibility can fade in fog from the Atlantic. The crew – Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen – plan a roughly 10-day mission that loops a crewed flight around the Moon after a one-day Earth-orbit systems check, culminating in a trans-lunar injection. The date is penciled for Feb. 6, but NASA cautions it can move; backup windows exist in Feb-Apr. A key milestone is the wet dress rehearsal fueling test targeted for Feb. 2, following Artemis 1 lessons. The effort aims to pave the way for Artemis 3 in 2027-28.

Iran's internet partially restored as foreign messaging apps stay blocked

January 28, 2026, 6:54 PM EST. According to sources cited by the newspaper, Iran has restored portions of its internet, but access remains uneven. Foreign messaging apps, including WhatsApp, will stay restricted. Some local communication platforms are reachable inside the country, though observers raise security and privacy concerns about their use.

Samsung Galaxy S26 series gains satellite communication, FCC confirms

January 28, 2026, 6:48 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra received FCC certification, confirming satellite communication capabilities that let users send and receive messages even without cellular coverage. The US variants (FCC IDs A3LSMS942U, A3LSMS947U, A3LSMS948U) use the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and support 2G/3G/4G/5G networks, plus Wi-Fi 7. The devices also include SCS (Supplemental Coverage from Space) and NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network), enabling satellite operators to reach smartphones via existing terrestrial spectrum. Samsung is expected to partner with Skylo for satellite calling and messaging in select markets, notably the US. A late-February 2026 launch window is indicated, with pre-orders on launch day and general availability in the second week of March 2026. Bluetooth LE, NFC, UWB and wireless charging are also listed.

Tesla cleared to test FSD Supervised on Swedish public roads

January 28, 2026, 6:46 PM EST. Tesla has won final regulatory clearance to test its FSD Supervised system on public roads in Sweden, covering the national road network and the Municipality of Nacka. The company said the approval shows cooperation among authorities, municipalities and businesses can drive the technology forward, and that Nacka becomes the first Swedish municipality to join the transport system of the future. With the green light, Tesla can evaluate FSD Supervised in dense urban areas and on high-speed roads, testing steering, acceleration, braking and lane changes under driver supervision. FSD Supervised is already offered in the United States, Australia, Canada, China, Mexico and other markets; Europe remains awaiting regulatory clearance. Tesla expects a European rollout to start in early 2026, with additional approvals likely in coming months.

Vodafone to build Thetis Express subsea cable linking Crete and Athens to boost Greece connectivity

January 28, 2026, 6:44 PM EST. Vodafone Carrier Services will build Thetis Express, a 340-kilometre subsea fibre cable linking Crete and Athens, with two marine segments and terrestrial links via Milos, connecting to data centres in Heraklion and Attika. The system, capable of up to 180 terabits per second, could handle around 25 million 4K-video users simultaneously. Three new high-speed land routes will complement the subsea line, boosting Greece's status as a European connectivity hub and offering wholesale capacity to ISPs. Vodafone aims to bolster resilience and interconnectivity across Europe and Southeast Asia, including links to the 2Africa network already connected at Crete. Vodafone's Fanan Henriques emphasizes extending secure, smooth Internet traffic flows to Greece, with future satellite options as a supplement.

EV battery repairs at a fraction of replacement cost face safety and model hurdles

January 28, 2026, 6:38 PM EST. Mechanics are quietly repairing electric-vehicle batteries to extend lifespans rather than replacing them. The chemistry inside EV batteries makes repairs technically complex, but firms such as The Electrified Garage and Reneos say repairs can avoid costly replacements. A typical repair costs about $10,000 while a new pack runs $15,000 or more, Grist reports. Repairs hinge on two phases: diagnosis and then high-voltage work by specialists who may replace cells or modules; often only one module is faulty. Cox Automotive has refurbished under-warranty packs since 2014, saving batteries that could power thousands of new EVs. Experts warn against DIY repairs; short circuits and electrocution are possible without proper safety. If scaled, repairs could cut demand for rare materials and reduce waste in a growing market, with roughly 10 million annual EV sales worldwide.

SpaceX weighs June 2026 IPO at $1.5 trillion valuation, FT reports

January 28, 2026, 6:30 PM EST. SpaceX is weighing a mid-June 2026 IPO, aiming to raise as much as $50 billion at a valuation of roughly $1.5 trillion, the Financial Times reported, citing people familiar with the matter. Reuters could not immediately verify the report.

Belfast City Hall keeps AR experience for £78K; council approves £100K AI business case

January 28, 2026, 6:28 PM EST. Councillors unanimously approved another year for Belfast City Hall's Augmented Reality (AR) experience, at a cost of £78,000 to ratepayers. The City Hall Immersive project-delivered with BT Northern Ireland-will continue in rooms 7-9, with technical updates and staffing to extend beyond the original six-month trial. Officials cite strong visitor feedback and engagement, noting over 50,694 uses in 18 months and visit duration up by about 30%. Partner and family visits rose 25%, and City Hall tours climbed 14.5%. Separately, the Strategic Policy and Resources Committee agreed £100,000 to develop a business case for a regional AI adoption programme across six Belfast Region City Deal councils, subject to approval, to help integrate AI into council services.

Samsung's Galaxy S27 may mix Exynos with a custom-tuned Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro on 2nm GAA

January 28, 2026, 6:24 PM EST. Samsung's Galaxy S27 faces a foundry dilemma. Rumors say Samsung's 2nm GAA process could host a custom-tuned Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, aligning with Qualcomm's interest in a dual-foundry strategy. The aim: reduce Exynos reliance while boosting foundry revenue. Digital Chat Station on Weibo reports the Gen 6 Pro would be tailored on the 2nm GAA, possibly with modest CPU/GPU clock increases but few exclusive upgrades. Analysts urge caution on rumor-driven bets. Samsung's 2nm yields are reportedly near 50%, with SF2P promotion and TSMC 2nm demand shaping orders. The Exynos division has morale boost from the Exynos 2600, but Qualcomm ties could limit Galaxy S27 adoption.

Google expands Chrome with Gemini features, Auto Browse autonomous agent and Sidepanel integration

January 28, 2026, 6:22 PM EST. Google is expanding Gemini in Chrome with a new autonomous browsing agent called Auto Browse. After months of Gemini integration, the update makes the AI easier to access and ties it into more Google's services. The omnipresent AI button now defaults to a split-screen or 'Sidepanel' view, though users can still detach Gemini into a floating window. In Chrome, Gemini can access and edit content from Gmail, Calendar, YouTube, Maps, Google Shopping and Google Flights without leaving the browser, and it can edit images using Nano Banana. Users can choose between the slower Pro model and the faster Standard model.

Waymo Adoption Grows as Tesla Robotaxi Slashes Prices

January 28, 2026, 6:18 PM EST. Waymo reports rising adoption of its autonomous taxi service across markets, as fleets expand and riders sign on. The company cites safety approvals and scale as drivers of momentum. In parallel, Tesla's Robotaxi unit undercuts rivals on price, aiming to attract volume and accelerate network effects. Analysts warn field conditions are uneven; profitability depends on cost discipline and regulatory clearance. The dynamic underscores a divide in autonomous mobility: steady demand for safe, reliable service even as price competition intensifies. Observers say next steps depend on regional approvals, data-sharing rules, and how quickly demand aligns with supply.

UK tech secretary warns AI will cost jobs as government sets upskilling push

January 28, 2026, 5:58 PM EST. Liz Kendall, UK technology secretary, warned that increased AI deployment will cost jobs and said the government will level with the public. She declined to give a job-loss figure but noted concerns about graduate-entry roles in law and finance, and added that some roles will be created in their place. The plan includes up to 10 million workers trained in basic AI skills by 2030, a new future-of-work unit in DSIT, and four AI growth zones. Ministers frame AI as a catalyst, not a threat, while backing collaborations with US firms and pilots with Anthropic for public services. Upskilling and policy coordination aim to keep Britain competitive in the evolving labour market.

Tesla's 'unsupervised' Robotaxi claim falters as Austin tests show safety monitors

January 28, 2026, 5:56 PM EST. Tesla said on January 22 it had begun Robotaxi rides in Austin with no safety monitor in the car. A week later, no rider reports an unsupervised trip. Enthusiast David Moss logged 42 rides; all included a driver or safety monitor in the vehicle. Tesla described starting with a few unsupervised vehicles mixed into the fleet, with the ratio increasing over time, but observers say there is no evidence of unsupervised rides. The service briefly paused during an ice storm and resumed, yet a tracker shows only a handful of active Robotaxi vehicles, with many new Model Ys appearing in the fleet. Historically, Tesla has announced autonomous milestones that aren't followed by repeated deployments, leaving customers awaiting a truly driverless experience.

Can DJI Drones Still Get Firmware Updates in the US Amid the Ban?

January 28, 2026, 5:54 PM EST. US drone owners ask whether older DJI devices can still receive firmware updates as a nationwide ban tightens. The FCC notice says the ban targets new DJI drones, not existing models, and a limited waiver allows updates for devices authorized before December 22, 2025. The waiver runs only through January 1, 2027, making the policy change temporary. Interpreting the notice is tricky, and the legal implications remain unsettled. In practice, pre-authorized DJI drones in the United States should still fly and receive firmware updates through 2026, though regulators could change the rules later. Reuters will monitor further guidance as the situation evolves.

Google Pixel Tensor could help weather 2026 smartphone market, Counterpoint says

January 28, 2026, 5:50 PM EST. Counterpoint Research forecasts the smartphone chipset market will shrink about 7% in 2026 vs 2025, as higher memory costs bite the sub-$150 segment. The report says brands investing in in-house chip development are better positioned to weather the downturn. Vendors exposed to 4G and entry-level 5G are set to face the toughest pressure, while brands such as Google, Samsung, Huawei and Xiaomi that push self-made SoCs may navigate the cycle more effectively. Google's Tensor chip hasn't moved the 2025 or 2027 shipment numbers, but it helps bolster a premium-first portfolio aligned with the market trend. Analysts expect Google's impact in 2026 to be milder than rivals.

Google expands Gemini AI in Chrome with side panel and Auto Browse

January 28, 2026, 5:48 PM EST. Google is expanding Gemini 3 in Chrome, unveiling a side panel that keeps the AI assistant on screen across tabs. The feature supports multitasking and tight integration with Google Apps such as Gmail, Calendar, YouTube, Maps, Shopping and Flights. In a demo, Parisa Tabriz said the assistant can draft emails and pull event details without leaving the browser. Users can enable Connected Apps to authorize services. Google also adds Nano Banana, an in-browser image tool that can transform images without downloads. The marquee upgrade, Auto Browse, is limited to AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers and lets Gemini execute multi-step tasks across tabs and services, moving from information delivery to action.

How to set up a new Android tablet: a quick step-by-step guide

January 28, 2026, 5:42 PM EST. New Android tablets guide users through a familiar setup: power on, choose language and setup method, then connect to Wi-Fi. Next, sign in with a Google account, which links Gmail, Google Photos and Drive to the device. After login, open Google Play Store to download essential apps. The process mirrors iOS in flow but uses Google accounts rather than Apple ID. Expect about 10 minutes of setup time. The steps: power on, select language, connect to Wi-Fi, sign in to Google account, install apps and start using the device.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold goes on sale Jan. 30 at $2,900, the costliest Samsung phone yet

January 28, 2026, 5:40 PM EST. Samsung will ship the Galaxy Z TriFold in the US starting Jan. 30 with a starting price of $2,900, making it the most expensive Samsung phone to date. The dual-hinged device folds into a 10-inch inner screen, larger than the 8-inch Z Fold 7. Titanium hinges are rated for about 200,000 folds. At 3.9 mm thick when unfolded, it presses the limits of phone thinness alongside Huawei's Mate XT. It runs a customized Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, not the latest Gen 5. Storage starts at 512GB, with a 5,600 mAh battery and 45W charging. Samsung positions the TriFold as a premium benchmark for foldables, with pricing outpacing flat smartphones and potentially reshaping consumer expectations.

User behavior gaps challenge smartphone design priorities, author says

January 28, 2026, 5:20 PM EST. The author, a tech journalist, argues that smartphone design often misses how people actually use devices. At live launches, they witnessed demos of niche features-such as a surf-report animation-that nod to real-world use only when discussed in the room. The piece contends that most hardware and software choices are built around hypothetical scenarios, not everyday tasks. The author notes a drift between desktop AI tools and mobile use, with high-profile features like Gemini serving more as bar-trivia than practical tools. The takeaway: companies should prioritize practical features, longer device longevity, and context-rich design that matches how people actually live with their phones. The piece invites a broader conversation about aligning product design with real-world needs.

Web page error prompts users to enable JavaScript after load failure

January 28, 2026, 5:18 PM EST. An error page tells visitors that JavaScript is disabled and prevents the site from loading. The message suggests the issue could stem from a browser setting, a network problem, or an extension. Users are advised to enable JavaScript, disable ad blockers, check their connection, or try a different browser. The guidance reflects common web-design patterns that rely on client-side scripts to render content. Site operators aim to minimize disruption by offering practical steps: verify permissions, refresh, or switch browsers. In practice, many sites depend on JavaScript for core features, so disabling it can halt access. The notice is a reminder that browser configuration remains a frequent obstacle to online access.

NVIDIA's Jensen Huang Faces Succession Uncertainty as Bloomberg Reports No Clear Plans

January 28, 2026, 5:14 PM EST. Investors are weighing who might replace NVIDIA's CEO Jensen Huang, as Bloomberg reports there are no clear plans for a successor. Huang has built a flat, engineering-driven structure with about 60 direct reports, a setup he says eliminates the need for a named successor. He notes he has no fixed timeline to step down and has been 'raised by the company.' Yet NVIDIA's rising mainstream status has intensified succession chatter. Names like Ian Buck and Bryan Catanzaro appear in background discussions, but no formal plan exists.

Gen Z and Gen AI: How Young People Use Generative AI and What It Means for Employers

January 28, 2026, 5:12 PM EST. Gen Z is an early adopter of digital tools, and its embrace of generative AI (Gen AI) is reshaping work and study. The cohort uses Gen AI to draft content, brainstorm ideas, summarize data, and personalize learning. Many report faster workflows and new collaboration modes, but worries surface about privacy, bias, and overreliance. Promising use cases span education aids, project ideation, resume tailoring, and lightweight coding help. Employers face policy questions: how to train staff, guard data, and integrate AI without eroding skills or safety. The conversation also covers ethical boundaries, transparency, and accountability as Gen Z demands practical benefits alongside guardrails. Ongoing surveys and pilots aim to map adoption, sentiment, and employment implications across industries.

Samsung teases privacy feature to shield Galaxy screens from onlookers

January 28, 2026, 5:10 PM EST. Samsung previewed a new privacy feature designed to shield Galaxy screens from shoulder surfing. The company did not disclose technical details but said users will be able to control what people nearby can see, tailoring the setting to specific apps or during password entry. Multiple visibility options will let users hide or blur on-screen content, including the notification area. Samsung said the feature uses a mix of hardware and software and may debut with the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra. The push comes as researchers note risks of onlookers capturing private data in public spaces. A tipster posted screenshots showing partial privacy masking. Samsung did not give a firm release date; a February event is expected to unveil the device.

Samsung Galaxy S26 to add satellite texting and SOS support, leaks suggest

January 28, 2026, 5:06 PM EST. FCC listings show the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra will support satellite texting and SOS via SCS and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN). Devices run the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy and bear FCC IDs indicating satellite protocols. Samsung may use Skylo as the NTN provider, the same partner Google uses. The feature could be region-locked to the US and may appear as a paid option; details remain unspecified in the listings. Separately, Samsung is upgrading the line with 25W wireless charging and increasing base storage to 256GB versus 128GB for the prior model. The disclosures come as leaks mount ahead of an expected S26 launch, with Google and Apple already offering satellite SOS and texting.

Patreon says Apple reimposes in-app subscription deadline by November 2026

January 28, 2026, 5:04 PM EST. Patreon says Apple has reimposed a transition deadline that requires all creators to use Apple's in-app purchases for subscriptions by November 1, 2026. The rule would affect about 4% of Patreon's creators still on legacy billing. Patreon paused the prior plan after Epic v. Apple but now says Apple's timing creates more 'whiplash' and undermines consistency and clarity for building long-term creator businesses. The company notes this marks the third Apple policy reversal in 18 months and expresses strong disagreement, while complying and offering tools-such as a benefit eligibility checker-to help creators migrate. Patreon argues it could have delivered an independent transition timeline with more support, had Apple agreed.

AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D: modest single-core gains, higher power draw

January 28, 2026, 4:56 PM EST. AMD's Ryzen 7 9850X3D shows only a modest uplift in single-core speed over the 9800X3D and leaves multi-core results largely unchanged. In our tests, it closes the gap with the 9900X3D and 9950X3D on single-core tasks, but the gains are small overall. The chip's higher power draw is evident: gaming package power runs about 25-30 W higher than the 9800X3D for similar workloads, with only single-digit improvements in some tests. AMD appears to have pushed the 9850X3D's behavior toward a non-X3D part, rather than delivering a dramatic architectural lift. The result: minimal performance gains that come with noticeably higher power use, reducing the practical value for CPU-bottlenecked or GPU-bound gaming scenarios.

Tesla set to report Q4 2025 earnings after the bell; Robotaxi, Optimus in focus

January 28, 2026, 4:54 PM EST. Tesla Inc. will release its fourth-quarter 2025 earnings after the market closes on Wednesday, as the company battles slowing revenue and a 16% drop in vehicle deliveries in the period. Analysts expect earnings of $0.45 per share on about $24.79 billion in revenue, with full-year 2025 revenue seen near $95 billion, a roughly 2.8% decline from 2024-the first annual drop on record. The company has shifted shareholder attention to its nascent Robotaxi ride-hailing service and Optimus humanoid robots, though both are not yet profitable. Competition from BYD in China contributes to revenue pressure. Tesla's fourth-quarter delivery slide follows a brutal start to 2025; management continues to test driverless rides in Austin and other markets, while consumer services expand alongside rivals such as Waymo and Apollo Go.

Arcee AI unveils 400B open-source Trinity LLM to challenge Meta's Llama 4 Maverick

January 28, 2026, 4:52 PM EST. Tiny California startup Arcee AI released Trinity, a 400B-parameter, fully open-source foundation model under the Apache license, claiming it sits among the largest open models built by a U.S. company. Trinity currently handles text but is designed for coding and multi-step tasks, with a vision and speech-to-text roadmap in the works. In benchmarks run by Arcee, the base model held its own against Meta's Llama 4 Maverick 400B and China's Z-GLM 4.5 on coding, math, and reasoning tests. The company trained Trinity and its two earlier smaller variants in six months for about $20 million on 2,048 Nvidia Blackwell GPUs, part of a total funding around $50 million. Arcee aims to attract U.S. developers and academics away from Chinese open models.

Samsung reveals privacy display ahead of Galaxy S26 Ultra debut

January 28, 2026, 4:48 PM EST. Samsung confirms a new privacy display that dims screens at side angles to curb shoulder surfing in public. The feature, described as a fusion of hardware and software, keeps messages, passwords and notifications private without blocking direct use. It can be tailored per app and activity, including Auto Privacy mode, Maximum Privacy and conditional activation. Knox security underpins Galaxy devices, with the display adding a visible privacy layer. One UI 8.5 is expected to include the feature, though hardware support may limit it to premium models like the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra; the Galaxy S26 and S26+ are also cited as potential beneficiaries. Samsung calls it privacy you can see and security you can feel.

Is Tesla a Buy After a Weak 2025 as Robotaxis and Optimus Loom?

January 28, 2026, 4:46 PM EST. Tesla faced a weak 2025, with EVs sales shrinking and muted share-price gains. The company is pivoting toward two big growth bets: autonomous driving and humanoid robots. Elon Musk said in a Jan. 22, 2026 post that the first robotaxis can operate without a human safety monitor in Austin, though a monitor still trails behind in a separate vehicle. Tesla's robotaxi push competes with Alphabet's Waymo; analysts project a robotaxi market reaching about 900,000 vehicles and roughly $100 billion by 2035. Musk also rolled out Optimus humanoid robots, with public sale expected by end-2027 and factory use this year. He has claimed Optimus could add up to $20 trillion to Tesla's valuation, though that remains highly speculative. Production ramps for Robotxis and Optimus were acknowledged as potentially 'agonizingly slow'.

Samsung DRAM price hikes pressure Apple ahead of iPhone 18

January 28, 2026, 4:44 PM EST. South Korea's memory market movement is pressuring Apple as DRAM prices climb. A report from industry sources says Samsung raised LPDDR DRAM prices by about 80% versus Q4 2025, while SK Hynix lifted its DRAM pricing by roughly 100%. Apple has relied on long-term supplier deals to absorb costs, but the new report suggests a Samsung-backed price for DRAM unit costs will apply only to the first half of the year. The shift could lift prices for the iPhone 18 and other devices. Yet Ming-Chi Kuo sees potential relief, expecting Apple to absorb some costs and keep device pricing stable to defend market share. Source: Korean report.

SpaceX to shift 4,400 Starlink orbits after near miss with Chinese satellite

January 28, 2026, 4:42 PM EST. SpaceX will lower the orbits of about 4,400 Starlink satellites through 2026 after a near miss with a new Chinese satellite. The move aims to improve space safety and speed up the deorbit of failed satellites, SpaceX says. In December, a Chinese craft passed within 200 meters of a Starlink satellite, highlighting crowded low Earth orbit. Starlink now operates roughly 9,000 satellites, with plans to grow beyond 34,000. The reconfiguration reduces altitude from about 340 miles to 300 miles, lowering collision risk but potentially shortening satellite lifespans and increasing launch cadence. As rivals like Amazon and China build large constellations, avoiding debris and congestion remains a core challenge for all operators.

MediaTek to Lead Global Smartphone Chipset Shipments in 2026 Despite DRAM-Driven Decline, Counterpoint Says

January 28, 2026, 4:40 PM EST. Counterpoint Research expects a 7% drop in global smartphone chipset shipments in 2026, yet double-digit SoC revenue growth driven by premiumization and higher memory prices. MediaTek should remain the leader with roughly 34% market share in 2026, a touch lower than 2025's 34.4%. Qualcomm and Apple also fall, to about 24.7% and 18.1%, while Samsung climbs to 12.1%. The DRAM cost surge is a key factor behind weaker shipments, even as AI-enabled features and higher-priced devices lift revenue. Samsung unveiled the 2nm Exynos 2600; MediaTek taped out its 2nm Dimensity 9600, though it will stick with ARM CPU cores this year. The analyst note also highlights continued premium pricing and the AI trend as the main growth engines.

Meta to report Q4 earnings as AI overhaul shapes 2026 outlook

January 28, 2026, 4:36 PM EST. Meta Platforms is due to report fourth-quarter earnings, with investors seeking signs that its revamped artificial intelligence strategy will lift results in 2026. The company spent much of 2025 reshaping its AI unit, including a $14.3 billion investment in Scale AI to recruit founder Alexandr Wang and colleagues. Analysts will also parse updates on Reality Labs, which cut more than 1,000 jobs this month as Meta shifts resources to AI and smart glasses. Meta has begun testing a frontier model code-named Avocado and a Llama successor after the inadequate reception of Llama 4. The company also cited a large data-center build-out and a Corning fiber deal worth up to $6 billion through 2030. StreetAccount estimates place Q4 capex at $21.97 billion, revenue around $58.35 billion, and EPS of $8.21, with DAU near 3.58 billion.

Iran eases internet blackout as costs mount

January 28, 2026, 4:32 PM EST. Iran's government appears to have loosened but not lifted the internet blackout, as authorities test a patchwork of connectivity. Researchers say traffic is uneven, with Cloudflare and Kentik data showing a return to about 60% of pre-shutdown levels at times and jagged peaks suggesting ongoing throttling. Telegram channels reappeared on Wednesday; some services such as Google, Bing, and ChatGPT are intermittently accessible on a province-by-province basis but remain unstable. The regime says the shutdown costs the state up to $36 million per day, a figure echoed by global studies that place similar blackouts in the hundreds of millions. OECD estimated Egypt's 2011 outage at $90 million. Authorities have warned the restriction could persist until at least Nowruz.

Apple eyes Q1 focus on iPhone 17 sales, AI plans, and China rebound

January 28, 2026, 4:28 PM EST. Apple gears up to report its first-quarter results, with investors watching for momentum in iPhone 17 sales and the Services business. Apple previously signaled a best-ever quarter, setting high bar for revenue as Tim Cook and leadership present results. Analysts expect EPS of about $2.68 on revenue around $138.4 billion, up from a year ago. The iPhone segment is seen delivering roughly $78.3 billion, while Services may surpass $30 billion. Growth also hinges on China, where revenue could rebound about 18% year over year. The company faces a memory shortage tied to global AI data-center construction, potentially pressuring margins or prompting price moves. Apple has contracted with Google Gemini for AI, with Siri updates planned and a chatbot-style interface on the horizon.

SpaceX targets late-night Falcon 9 Starlink launch from Cape Canaveral

January 28, 2026, 4:24 PM EST. SpaceX plans a late-night Falcon 9 liftoff from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station Thursday, Jan. 29, into the early hours of Friday, Jan. 30. The booster will launch from Launch Complex 40 between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m., then target a southeast trajectory to deploy 29 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. The first stage is expected to land on the drone ship Just Read the Instructions in the Atlantic. This mission is the second of three Cape launches within a week, following a GPS III-9 mission. Florida Today coverage begins about 90 minutes before liftoff at floridatoday.com/space. SpaceX also targets a Sunday, Feb. 1 Starlink liftoff window from 6:04 p.m. to 10:04 p.m.

NVIDIA Stock Poised for New Highs in 2026 as AI Catalysts Mount

January 28, 2026, 4:22 PM EST. NVIDIA faces a history of sharp rallies and a set of AI-driven catalysts that could lift the stock toward new highs in 2026. Catalyst 1: Sovereign AI Infrastructure Development – multi-billion contracts and accelerated data-center growth beyond hyperscalers; evidence: CEO remarks and AI programs in India, Japan, France and Canada. Catalyst 2: Automotive Pro Viz and In-Car Compute Turning Point – revenue growth rising from high single digits toward 20%+, margins lifted by a software mix; evidence: shift to AI cockpits and DRIVE platform uptake. Catalyst 3: Blackwell Platform Margin Growth – gross margins above 75%, higher ASP on next-gen GPUs, cost efficiencies. Risks: customer concentration, in-house silicon, US-China tensions, regulatory scrutiny, lawsuits. Historical drawdowns: dot-com (68%), GFC (85%), inflation shock (66%). Fundamentals: 65.2% revenue growth LTM; 41.3% free cash flow margin; 58.8% operating margin. Portfolio approach advised.

Apple updates iOS 12 for first time since 2023; extends certificate validity and adds second-generation AirTag

January 28, 2026, 4:12 PM EST. Apple released iOS 12.5.8, its first update to the legacy iOS 12 since 2023, extending the certificate required by iMessage, FaceTime and device activation to remain valid after January 2027. The move follows a broader update wave reported by Macworld that includes iOS/iPadOS 18.7.4, 16.7.13 and 15.8.6, plus a second-generation AirTag with a larger speaker and refined tracking. Apple says the newer software builds include bug fixes; the 16.x update is labeled important for all users. The updates also underscore Apple's continued support for legacy hardware, including devices like the iPhone 5S and iPhone 6, albeit with security fixes. Users can update via Settings > General > Software Update.

Nothing Phone 4a Pro leaks point to minimal upgrade with 5,080mAh battery and IP65 rating

January 28, 2026, 4:10 PM EST. A new wave of Nothing leaks centers on the Phone 4a Pro. The model, labeled A069P, reportedly passed the EU EPREL energy certification, suggesting the device will keep a 5,080mAh battery and 50W wired charging, with an IP65 rating. Earlier, a UAE listing hinted at a launch timeline for the base Phone 4a, while the mid-range family continues to surface in overseas certifications, including India's BIS. Proponents note the minimal battery delta versus the Phone 3a Pro, and observers expect a similar price-sensitive strategy as Nothing breathes life into its mid-range lineup. No official confirmation yet, but multiple certifications imply a launch could be imminent.

Google extends Identity Check to banking apps and password managers

January 28, 2026, 4:08 PM EST. Google is expanding its device-safety suite. Identity Check now applies to more functions, including banking apps and password managers, as part of updated protections rolling out with its Android platform. The update follows the company's existing safeguards-Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, Failed Authentication Lock, Inactivity reboot, and Find My-to keep data away from criminals after a phone loss. Android 15 introduced Failed Authentication Lock; with Android 16, users gain a dedicated enable/disable toggle in settings for finer control. Google says the changes are designed to make devices a harder target, offering users greater peace of mind.

UK police to expand AI facial recognition tied to Israel's Gaza surveillance

January 28, 2026, 4:04 PM EST. Britain will expand its facial recognition program. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced a nationwide roll-out of AI-powered surveillance software, expanding 10 live facial recognition vans to more than 50. The software is supplied by Corsight AI, subcontracted to Digital Barriers. Critics warn this raises civil liberties concerns and questions about accuracy. The package is part of a £20 million roll-out. The system has links to Israel's use in Gaza, where Corsight has been deployed by the Israeli army to track Palestinians at checkpoints. New York Times reports and internal debates have highlighted doubts among Israeli officials about the tech's reliability. Corsight's website lists a former Israeli intelligence officer on its board, Igal Raichelgauz. Campaigners note the UK has pushed forward despite criticisms of Israel.

AirTag 2 teardown reveals internal changes to chassis, speaker and packaging

January 28, 2026, 4:02 PM EST. Apple's second-gen AirTag reveals notable internal changes, per a teardown by Joseph Taylor. Externally indistinguishable, it still uses a CR2032 coin cell and carries IP67, NFC and Find My support on the back, now with all-caps text. Inside, the main PCB is thinner; battery connectors sit at a different angle; a new row of test pads and a QR-like graphic appear in the battery compartment. The speaker assembly features a larger coil and a more securely fixed magnet, reducing easy tampering. Adhesive use hints at anti-tampering aims. Despite removing internal parts, the device still pairs with iPhone and shows no firmware lockout. The chime shifts from F to G. Packaging changes include a narrower box, raised UV text, pull-tabs, and four AirTags in a row.

China leads humanoid-robot space race as PM01 links to satellite

January 28, 2026, 4:00 PM EST. China is pushing a humanoid-robot space race. Shenzhen-based Engine AI plans to send its PM01 humanoid into orbit with Beijing Interstellar Human Spaceflight Technology, aiming to crown it the world's first humanoid astronaut. Separately, the X-Humanoid team reports a stable link between its Embodied Tien Kung robot and a GalaxySpace satellite, enabling simultaneous data transmission to a phone and computer-a claimed world first. The push centers on space-ready robots with high-precision sensing, fast motion, and autonomous AI, reducing reliance on terrestrial networks via satellite. Counterpoint Research says 16,000 humanoid units sold in 2025, mostly in China, with more than 100,000 projected by 2027 across logistics, manufacturing, and automotive. China appears to reuse the U.S. space-race playbook and scale up investment.

Battery-tested: M5 iPad Pro tops 9 tablets in lab tests

January 28, 2026, 3:56 PM EST. ZDNET ran a lab-based test of nine tablets in a Louisville, Kentucky lab to compare battery life. Testing ran 12 cycles per device: three at maximum brightness and volume, three at minimum brightness, then three with maximum brightness in Airplane Mode, and three with minimum brightness in Airplane Mode. The tests used VLC as the sole running app and measured battery drain as screen brightness during video playback; networking and Bluetooth were toggled to gauge additional drain. The lab equipment included an NI USB-6001 DAQ and LabVIEW software. The standout was the M5 iPad Pro, earning ZDNET's Lab Award badge. Other noted performers included the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, the base-model iPad, and the Google Pixel Tablet. Future tests may add streaming scenarios; the study focuses on screen brightness as the main battery determinant.

AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D Linux Performance Review

January 28, 2026, 3:54 PM EST. AMD's Ryzen 7 9850X3D goes on sale at $499, offering 8 cores and 16 threads with 3D V-Cache and a total 104MB cache. The key upgrade over the 9800X3D is a 400MHz higher boost clock, up to 5.6GHz, while base remains 4.7GHz and 120W TDP. In Linux tests, the 9850X3D delivered leading graphics and gaming performance, including Cyberpunk 2077 under Steam Play with an RTX 5090. The chip sits within a broader comparison against the Ryzen 9 series for multi-threaded workloads. The review used Ubuntu 25.10, Linux 6.17, GCC 15.2, and an ASRock X870E Taichi platform with DDR5-6000 memory. AMD provided the sample.

Factorial Energy to go public after 745-mile solid-state test

January 28, 2026, 3:52 PM EST. Factorial Energy is pursuing a public listing via a merger with Cartesian Growth Corporation III SPAC, aiming for Nasdaq ticker FAC. The move follows real-world testing where a Mercedes-Benz EQS fitted with Factorial's 106 Ah solid-state cells traveled more than 745 miles (1,200 km), with reserve juice left. Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, Hyundai and other OEMs are partnering to bring the technology to market, potentially as early as 2027. Factorial says the cells deliver longer range, lighter weight and cost efficiency. The deal values Factorial at around $1.1 billion and would provide about $100 million to fund growth, with close expected mid-2026. Initial rollouts likely target high-performance or luxury models before broader adoption.

Intel Ultra Series edges M5 in two tests, but Apple poised for M5 Max

January 28, 2026, 3:50 PM EST. Two laptops running Intel Core Ultra Series 3 beat the MacBook Pro with M5 in two benchmarks, according to Wired's Luke Larsen. The MSI Prestige 14 Flip with Core Ultra X7 358H and a Lenovo IdeaPad reference unit with Core Ultra X9 388H posted higher scores in Cinebench 24 multi-core (1285 vs 922) and 3DMark Steel Nomad Light (5883 vs 5077). Still, Intel trails the Apple M4 Pro and faces being eclipsed by upcoming M5 Pro and M5 Max models, expected in new MacBook Pro laptops as soon as Wednesday. The data hint at a short-lived Intel lead and suggest the M5 Max could deliver very high Geekbench results.

Google tightens Android theft protections with new features, Brazil defaults

January 28, 2026, 3:48 PM EST. Google has announced a slate of theft-protection upgrades for Android. On Android 16 devices, it adds a dedicated toggle for Failed Authentication Lock and increases the lockout time after multiple failed unlock attempts, with identical incorrect guesses not counting as retries. Identity Check is expanding to support all apps that use the Android Biometric Prompt, including banking apps and Google Password Manager, so biometric verification may be required to change settings outside trusted places. Google also adds an optional security challenge for the Remote Lock web tool, requiring a question before remotely locking a device, available on Android 10+ devices. Finally, Remote Lock and Theft Detection Lock are enabled by default on new devices in Brazil, with hopes to expand more broadly.

UK CMA proposes opt-out option for publishers on Google AI summaries

January 28, 2026, 3:44 PM EST. Britain's competition watchdog released proposals urging Google to let news publishers opt out of having their content scraped for AI-generated summaries. The Competition and Markets Authority says publishers should have a mechanism to refuse, more transparency about how content is used, and proper attribution in AI results. The CMA argues the change would support the long-term sustainability of publishers and help people verify sources in AI outputs. It notes traffic declines on some news sites since Google rolled out AI Overviews at the top of queries. Google said it is open to dialogue and is testing controls to let sites opt out of Search AI features. The CMA also pressed for fair search ranking and easier choice screens for default engines, with a consultation through Feb. 25.

NEXCOM Unveils NDiS B340 Edge Computer With DockInfinity PCIe Expansion

January 28, 2026, 3:42 PM EST. NEXCOM introduced the NDiS B340 Duro Edge Computer, a compact base unit that can be upgraded on demand with the DockInfinity-E4X1 PCIe expansion module. The setup blends a fanless metal chassis with scalable performance for edge workloads. It supports multiple Intel low-power platforms-Amston Lake X, Alder Lake-N N97, and Twin Lake N150-so users can scale power without redesign. Out of the box it drives two 4K@60Hz displays via Intel graphics, and provides dual 2.5GbE LAN, plentiful USB and industrial I/O including serial and GPIO. The optional expansion adds a half-length PCIe x4 slot for PoE, capture cards, and custom modules. Additional features include 12-24V DC input, wall-mount, TPM 2.0, and watchdog. Debuts at Embedded World Nuremberg 2026, Hall 3, Booth 3-341.

Google's Gemini expands AI Plus limits, adds NotebookLM to iOS app

January 28, 2026, 3:38 PM EST. Google expands AI Plus usage limits in Gemini, while rolling out NotebookLM integration in the iOS app. Under AI Plus ($7.99/mo), Gemini 3 Flash allows up to 90 prompts per day, versus 300 on AI Pro; Gemini 3 Pro is capped at 30 prompts per day, down from 100 on the $19.99 plan. Free users keep 32,000 tokens; AI Plus raises to 128,000 tokens, while AI Pro/Ultra tops at 1,000,000 tokens (enough for about 1,500 pages). No change to Nano Banana (100 images/day) or Nano Banana Pro (3/images) and limited access to Veo 3.1 Fast remains. Deep Research access is still limited for Pro, with 10 Scheduled actions. The iOS Gemini app adds NotebookLM, including notebook-based content creation and Google Workspace support for a more knowledge-driven experience.

Apple launches Creator Studio bundle at $12.99/month, uniting six apps including Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro

January 28, 2026, 3:34 PM EST. Apple on Thursday rolled out Creator Studio, a subscription bundle that grants access to six apps for $12.99 per month or $129 per year. The lineup spans Mac and iPad: Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and Pixelmator Pro on Mac and iPad, plus Motion, Compressor, and MainStage on Mac. Pixelmator Pro for iPad is new to the bundle. The full suite unlocks AI-powered features inside the apps and adds enhancements to free iWork tools such as Keynote, Pages, and Numbers, with Freeform coming later. A single Creator Studio subscription is required to access the full functionality, while standalone versions remain for purchase. The bundle is available now on the iOS and Mac App Stores for new subscribers.

Sonos unveils Amp Multi, first new hardware in over a year

January 28, 2026, 3:24 PM EST. Sonos on Tuesday introduced Amp Multi, its first hardware since 2024 and a move aimed at professional installations rather than mass-market appeal. The 8-channel amplifier delivers 8 x 125W across up to four zones, using GaN technology and post-filter feedback (PFFB) for efficiency and clarity. Installers can tune sound with ProTune, including a 10-band parametric EQ and adjustable gain and delay. The chassis is designed for better thermal performance, with recessed connectors, status LEDs and a compact 2U rack-mount that supports fanless cooling. Sonos has signaled that hardware launches will ramp up in the second half of fiscal 2026, suggesting more consumer-focused products may follow. The move aims to reset perception after a difficult period.

DeepMind's AlphaGenome reads up to a million DNA letters at once to map genome regulation

January 28, 2026, 3:16 PM EST. Google DeepMind's AlphaGenome, a new AI model, targets the genome's non-coding 'dark matter' to predict gene regulation. In a Nature paper, DeepMind researchers say AlphaGenome can interpret much longer DNA sequences with accuracy comparable to existing models and may reveal how subtle genetic variations affect health. Trained on human and mouse genomes, the model can analyze up to 1 megabase-about 1 million letters-per pass, roughly double the previous limit, though at a higher computational cost. From each sequence, it predicts thousands of functional genomic tracks, including interactions between coding and non-coding regions and chromatin structure. Pushmeet Kohli calls it a tool to decipher the regulatory code that governs biology.

Strontium tweezer array achieves 0.81 μm waist for quantum computing advances

January 28, 2026, 3:10 PM EST. Researchers from Eindhoven University of Technology and the University of Amsterdam have built a robust strontium tweezer array that stochastically loads a 5×5 grid of individual atoms. The setup delivers a 1/e2 beam waist of 0.81 μm for precise single-atom control and uses a deflection stage to maintain low vacuum pressure, extending coherence times. A two-stage laser cooling sequence lowers temperatures to about 5 K, enabling high-fidelity trapping and imaging. Eight continuous-wave lasers (317-813 nm) stabilize to roughly 10 Hz after 104 seconds of averaging, supporting cooling, imaging, tweezer creation, qubit control and repumping. The work advances neutral-atom quantum computing with prospects for Rydberg-mediated entanglement and a future Quantum Inspire backend, augmented by a digital twin called RySP.

Napster launches AI music app while facing Sony royalty lawsuit

January 28, 2026, 3:06 PM EST. Napster relaunched as an AI-driven music platform, rolling out an iOS/Android app that layers a chatbot over a prompt-based music generator. The service features more than 15,000 AI personas powered by Google's Gemini and markets the experience as "jamming" with AI artists. The relaunch follows Napster's acquisition by Infinite Reality and a broader pivot into metaverse and AI offerings, including Napster View, a holographic display. The move comes as Napster faces a Sony Music lawsuit over $9.2 million in allegedly unpaid royalties and other music-label complaints, with SoundExchange also suing. Napster CEO John Acunto told Rolling Stone the company aims to license "ethically trained" models and says major labels are "dead," while noting attempts to repair relationships in the long term.

DJI Power 1000 V2 portable power station discounted to $429 on Amazon

January 28, 2026, 3:02 PM EST. Mashable's Lauren Allain reports the DJI Power 1000 V2 portable power station is on sale at Amazon for $429 after applying an on-page coupon, down from a list price of $699 (approximately 39% off). The V2 doubles the AC ports of the original and provides a more stable output for high-demand gear. Deal pricing can change after publication. The article targets campers, travelers and emergency preparedness with a compact, portable power solution.

DJI Mic Mini deal: Save 53% at Amazon to $79 with two transmitters and one receiver

January 28, 2026, 3:00 PM EST. The DJI Mic Mini is on sale at Amazon for $79, a 53% discount from the $169 list price. The kit includes two transmitters and one receiver, plus accessories. Deal pricing and availability can change after publication, and the offer matches the lowest price seen on Amazon. Mashable reports the deal, with Lauren Allain as the contributor.

Apple AirTag 2nd Gen: 50% more range, louder speaker, new features

January 28, 2026, 2:58 PM EST. Apple on Thursday announced the AirTag 2nd Gen, a refinement of its Bluetooth tracker. The new model keeps the glossy white puck form but adds internal upgrades that Apple says improve location accuracy and reach. A second-generation Ultra Wideband chip boosts Precision Tracking range by about 50 percent and enables direct guidance with an Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 when paired with WatchOS 26.2.1. A newer Bluetooth chip extends nearby-range connectivity, and a louder speaker-about 50% louder-emits a distinctive chirp to help you locate a nearby tag. The price remains the same as the original, with first-gen units often discounted. AirTags use Find My to report locations, and airports and airlines are integrated with the service. Battery life remains about one year on a CR2032.

Apple unveils AirTag 2nd generation with longer Precision Finding range and louder speaker

January 28, 2026, 2:56 PM EST. Apple on Tuesday introduced the AirTag (2nd generation), keeping the same price and exterior as the original while upgrading internals. The update centers on a refreshed Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip that expands Precision Finding reach by up to 50% and extends compatibility to supported Apple Watches as well as iPhone. Apple says the built-in speaker is 50% louder and features a new chime when pinged. The new model works with the same accessories and Find My network, and the original AirTag remains on sale. Apple's product pages and press materials confirm the changes, with core tracking features unchanged for existing users.

Google's Android for PC interface leaks via bug report, hints at Aluminium OS desktop build

January 28, 2026, 2:48 PM EST. Google's next Android for PC interface leaks from a bug report in Google's Issue Tracker. First spotted by 9to5Google, the report includes two screen recordings showing an HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook running a build labeled Android 16 with a desktop-like UI. The entry also lists ALOS (Aluminium OS) and a matching build number. Screenshots reveal a hybrid look mixing ChromeOS-style chrome with an Android-style taskbar, a top status bar and familiar indicators. The recordings show the Play Store, windowed apps, split-screen multitasking and a desktop Chrome with an extensions button. Google has not commented; more details should surface with future Android 16 updates.

AI IP Debates: Prompts vs. Programs in Hollywood's Copyright Fight

January 28, 2026, 2:46 PM EST. Deadline's Rendering column examines who bears fault for AI-driven copyright clashes. Content owners target tech companies as Disney sues and Google is pressured, while the BBC accuses Perplexity of scraping. A high-profile coalition, including Scarlett Johansson and Cate Blanchett, declares that the problem lies with tech firms rather than individual prompts. Jason Zada, founder of Secret Level, argues the antidote is prompt discipline: if IP isn't cited in inputs, outputs stay cleaner. He asks whether a backyard Star Wars scene makes the shop responsible, drawing a line between consuming vast IP and copying it. Coca-Cola's AI-backed holiday spot shows why studios still embrace AI, even as rights questions linger and campaigners press for accountability.

The AI Doc review: Roher's human-centric dive into AI at Sundance

January 28, 2026, 2:44 PM EST. At Sundance, The AI Doc follows Oscar-winning director Daniel Roher on a first-person, on-camera journey through artificial intelligence. Co-directed with Charlie Tyrell, the 1 hour 44 minute film weaves kaleidoscopic visuals-archival clips, sketches and animation-with conversations from computer scientists, researchers and advocates. Roher's voiceover frames the inquiry around his own questions about whether the technology can truly reason, and what its rapid progress means for humanity. Notable interviewees include Tristan Harris and Connor Leahy; Sam Altman appears but offers little concrete insight. The film balances curiosity and fear, presenting a human-centric look at an evolving field and the idea of becoming an apocaloptimist rather than a pessimist.

Rhode Island outlines AI-driven plan across six sectors

January 28, 2026, 2:42 PM EST. Rhode Island's AI plan treats artificial intelligence as public infrastructure, not a private sector edge. The draft action plan centers on six sectors-schools, hospitals, finance, defense and maritime, state government, and small businesses-and four themes: workforce training, government leadership, ethics and governance, and launching a statewide AI hub to help all plug in. The aim: speed training and adoption so jobs, investment, and industry grow, or risk losing ground as private AI races elsewhere. Key questions linger on prioritization and buy-in, including funding and sequencing. Next steps: Governor McKee, former Rep. Langevin, and Rhode Island College President Warner will outline steps today. This is a starting map, not a finished blueprint.

Is This AI? Somerville Snow-Shoveling Unicycle Video Faces Authenticity Test

January 28, 2026, 2:32 PM EST. Somerville residents posted a video of three people shoveling snow on unicycles, prompting questions about authenticity. The clip, set to upbeat music, fed AI chatter that it might be AI-generated rather than real life. Journalists noted this era of deepfakes and checked tools like AI or Not, which assessed the clip at 51% likelihood of being artificial. The poster, Alex Feldman, defended the clip in messages: "No AI-we really did this." To resolve doubt, a reporter planned an in-person check, observing that current AI can imitate motion but cannot yet perfectly reproduce a live scene. The episode underlines how real-time video and AI advances complicate trust in online footage.

Android expands anti-theft protections with stronger authentication and remote tools

January 28, 2026, 2:30 PM EST. Google unveiled expanded Android anti-theft tools, building on 2024 protections. The updates tighten authentication and add recovery options for devices running Android 16 or higher. A new on/off toggle for the Failed Authentication Lock gives users direct control over auto-lock after repeated wrong inputs. Lockout times increase after failed attempts to deter PIN, pattern or password guessing. Identity Check, rolled out with Android 15, now applies to all biometrics across apps and services, including banking apps and Google Password Manager. Remote Lock adds an optional security challenge, ensuring only the legitimate owner can trigger a lock from the web. In Brazil, Theft Detection Lock and Remote Lock default to on, with android.com/lock providing access.

Nvidia's RTX 5070 edges toward RTX 4090 performance with DLSS 4, a year after CES promises

January 28, 2026, 2:24 PM EST. More than a year after the RTX 50-series launch, Nvidia's pledge that the RTX 5070 would deliver RTX 4090-level performance for $549 remains contested. Early reviews showed a large gap: the RTX 5070 had far fewer shaders and less VRAM. Nvidia flagged DLSS 4 with Multi-Frame Generation to close the gap. In tests by XDA Developers, the RTX 5070 averaged 52.8 fps at 4K versus 88.9 fps for the RTX 4090; with DLSS 4 enabled, the gap narrowed but did not disappear. The episode highlights the tension between marketing promises and real-world results, even as DLSS 4 provides a meaningful boost for mainstream GPUs.

EU internet users protect data in 2025 at 76.9%, up 3.7 percentage points

January 28, 2026, 2:22 PM EST. In 2025, 76.9% of EU internet users protected their data online by limiting access to personal data, up from 73.2% in 2023. A majority (58.8%) chose not to have their data used for advertising, while 56.2% restricted or refused access to their geolocation. The use of these protection measures rose by 4.5 and 5.4 points over two years. Limiting access to social media profiles or shared online storage reached 46.0% (+5.0 pp). About 39.0% checked that the site was secure and 37.6% read the privacy policy statements (+1.7 pp). Finland led at 92.6%, followed by the Netherlands (91.2%) and Czechia (90.3%), while Romania (56%), Slovenia (57.4%) and Bulgaria (62%) trailed. The item coincides with Data Protection Day on Jan 28.

AirTag 2 chime shifts from F to G; new audio cue noted

January 28, 2026, 2:18 PM EST. AirTag 2 arrives with improved Precision Finding, a longer Bluetooth range and a louder speaker. A newly noted difference concerns the audible alert chime, which shifts from the note F to G. Early buyer Karagana reported the change; Macworld's David Price confirmed it. The tester verified the pitch via Virtual Piano. The rhythm remains a short flourish followed by three sets of seven notes, and listeners say the higher pitch is easier to hear at distance, though the perceptual gain is small. Apple released video evidence of the new chime, underscoring a subtle but real audio cue change in the second-generation tag alongside other hardware tweaks.

Thermodynamic computing could slash AI image-generation energy use by up to ten billion times, but hardware hurdles remain

January 28, 2026, 2:16 PM EST. A pair of Berkeley Lab researchers issue a cautious forecast that thermodynamic computing could dramatically cut energy use for AI image generation. IEEE Spectrum cites Stephen Withelam, a staff scientist, saying the approach promises a much lower energy cost than current digital hardware. In a January article co-authored by Whitelam and Corneel Casert, the team sketches a thermodynamic version of a neural network and describes prototype work. The world's first thermodynamic computing chip reportedly reached tape-out last year. The method relies on noise and energy to reach equilibrium, then reversing decay to pick likely outputs. But experts stress the proof of concept is rudimentary and far from rivaling modern tools like DALL-E or Google's Gemini; substantial hardware challenges remain.

China could catch up to US in AI frontier, experts say

January 28, 2026, 2:00 PM EST. China trails the United States in the AI frontier, but experts say a rapid catch-up is plausible. In Hangzhou, Alibaba CEO Eddie Wu framed AGI and ASI as imminent steps that could unlock supercharged science and engineering. Wu announced a 380 billion yuan investment in AI infrastructure over three years, lifting Alibaba's shares. Analysts note the broader Chinese AI ecosystem remains focused on practical applications, aided by an August release of China's AI+ strategy. Ya-Qin Zhang of Tsinghua says most firms target real-world uses, while some research groups pursue AGI. Washington debates a Manhattan-Project-style push to race for AGI. China's path blends computing power, policy support, and industry pragmatism, offering a potentially faster route to narrowing the gap.

Samsung teases Privacy Display for Galaxy S26 Ultra with adjustable privacy modes

January 28, 2026, 1:58 PM EST. Samsung has publicized a new Privacy Display feature described as 'A New Layer of Privacy,' slated for the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The system combines hardware and software to curb shoulder-surfing, with user-selectable protection that can apply to specific apps or notifications and to moments like entering PINs or passwords, featuring multiple visibility settings. Unlike third-party privacy screens that darken the display, Samsung's approach aims for visibility control rather than reduced brightness. A Huawei counterpart exists that can warn when another person looks at the screen, but Samsung touts on-device controls. While Samsung did not name a device, rumors point to the Galaxy S26 Ultra amid OneUI 8.5 leaks. Samsung says the feature will arrive very soon, with the S26 series expected for a February 25 reveal and a March launch.

How to optimize your iPhone after the iOS 26.2.1 update

January 28, 2026, 1:16 PM EST. After updating to iOS 26.2.1, users should carry out quick checks to keep devices secure and efficient. First, verify the installation in Settings > General > Software Update; if the version shows 26.2.1, the device is up to date. Turn on automatic updates to receive future patches without manual intervention. Enable background security updates in Settings > Privacy & Security to receive critical patches between major releases. Check battery health in Settings > Battery > Battery Health, watching for a maximum capacity below 80%. Finally, review app updates in the App Store, or enable automatic updates so apps remain compatible and secure.

Satellite Quantum-Internet Market 2026: Growth Toward $5.63B by 2030, Key Players and Global Forecasts 2025-2035

January 28, 2026, 12:46 PM EST. Satellite quantum-internet is expanding rapidly, rising from $1.37 billion in 2025 to $1.82 billion in 2026, with a CAGR of 32.9%. Growth is driven by successful quantum key distribution (QKD) tests, investments in secure communications, and advances in quantum processors and memory. By 2030, the market is forecast at about $5.63 billion (32.6% CAGR), led by global satellite networks, quantum cloud services, and integration with terrestrial systems. Defense and financial sectors push adoption of quantum-secure links; large players like Honeywell, Nokia, Thales, Toshiba Europe, SK Telecom, and IonQ-ID Quantique acquisitions shape the landscape. Regional dynamics show North America as the 2025 leader; Asia-Pacific is the fastest growing. Trade barriers spur localized manufacturing and supply-chain diversification.

Michigan's school smartphone bill won't move the needle, critics say

January 28, 2026, 12:14 PM EST. The piece argues that Michigan's plan to ban smartphones only during instructional time does little to address deeper failures in public education. While lawmakers tout it as reducing distractions, most schools already enforce strict policies, and the bill would leave lunch, recess and between-class time unconstrained. The article notes Michigan's weak third-grade literacy and overall education ranking to frame the policy as incremental at best. It cites Margaret Murray, a University of Michigan-Dearborn professor and parent, who argues the policy ignores bigger issues. Two problems stand out: the narrow scope of the ban and the likelihood that existing policies render it ineffective on the ground. In short, the bill risks changing nothing while schools wrestle with broader outcomes.

Huawei Watch GT 6 Pro Honma edition launches in Malaysia with golf features

January 28, 2026, 10:44 AM EST. Huawei launches the Honma x Huawei Watch GT 6 Pro in Malaysia. Priced at MYR 1,299 (about $328), buyers get a premium gift box. The edition adds golf-specific features, including an AI caddie, play-like distance, and green slope direction, while keeping the standard 46mm Watch GT 6 Pro profile. Honma, a Japanese maker of handcrafted golf clubs, provides branding and themes to the otherwise normal smartwatch.

Microsoft and Meta earnings: Investors seek clarity on AI capex, margins, and ad growth

January 28, 2026, 10:38 AM EST. Investors are eyeing how Microsoft and Meta will translate AI spending into profits. The conversations center on CAPEX for AI, margins, and capacity constraints at Microsoft's cloud, plus the pace at which remaining performance obligations backlog will convert to revenue. Analysts want clarity on whether AI investments are driving productivity and better margins as capacity comes online. For Meta, attention pivots to ad trends, expansion of the advertising model across Threads and WhatsApp, and how AI enhances efficiency. The Metaverse angle remains a skepticism point, with questions about wearable devices and pricing. In sum, investors seek evidence that AI spend boosts capacity, accelerates revenue, and improves profitability, while trimming risk around the AI bubble narrative.

AI arms race in U.S. colleges as detectors clash with humanizers

January 28, 2026, 10:06 AM EST. Across U.S. colleges, a surge in generative AI has turned classrooms into an arms race between AI detectors and tools called humanizers. Universities say hundreds of students were flagged for cheating, yet critics argue detectors are unreliable and biased against non-native English speakers. An expanding group of students say their work was falsely marked as AI-generated, with lawsuits following. In response, firms such as Turnitin and GPTZero have upgraded detection and rolled out browser- and writing-history tools to prove authorship. Some students rely on humanizers to evade detection; others insist they never used AI. Educators warn the cycle could outpace policy and reshape definitions of cheating and authorship.

Huawei unveils plans for new Runner smartwatch with DSM Firmenich partnership

January 28, 2026, 9:50 AM EST. Huawei confirms a new Runner smartwatch is in development, set to debut soon, blurring sport and wearables. The company has teamed with DSM Firmenich, the Swiss-Dutch fragrance and ingredients group, to accelerate its flagship wearable's capabilities. The collaboration follows social posts by Eliud Kipchoge, the marathon great, signaling a global running-focused project. Huawei says the device will include smarter training methods and health insights tailored for runners of all levels, expanding on the legacy of the GT Runner line. While details are scarce, Huawei hints at a name change and a relaunch, with a possible moniker like Racing Legend. Huawei did not disclose timing or specs, but trademark activity suggests a broader sprint into performance wear.

Google leaks first look at Android for PC via Aluminium OS

January 28, 2026, 8:58 AM EST. 9to5Google reports a bug report on Google's Issue Tracker that includes two screen recordings from Aluminium OS, a ChromeOS/Android hybrid. The clips, pulled by 9to5Google after Google restricted access, show an HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook. The build is labeled Android 16 with an ALOS identifier, signaling early testing on existing hardware. The user interface mixes a ChromeOS-style taskbar with a centered start button and an Android-like status bar, and it shows the Play Store and split-screen multitasking. Android Authority shared the YouTube videos. Google has indicated more about Aluminium OS is on the way this year, although the company has not released an official overview.

Nvidia extends 2025 gains as AI demand remains strong; volatility looms into 2026

January 28, 2026, 8:52 AM EST. Nvidia posted a 2025 year with margins above 70% despite export-control headwinds that shaved gross margin to about 60% in Q1 due to a billion-dollar inventory write-off tied to China limits. The stock climbed about 38% for the year as revenue kept double-digit growth, powered by demand for GPUs and related services. The company maintained leadership through ongoing innovation, keeping ahead of rivals. Looking to 2026, market conditions should stay volatile. The stock's path won't be linear amid a high-valuation backdrop and fears of an AI bubble, but Nvidia could see catalysts like a renewed export permit to China or other AI-related demand drivers. Strong earnings growth may persist, even if volatility rises.

SK Hynix posts record Q4 as AI memory demand drives earnings beat

January 28, 2026, 8:18 AM EST. SK Hynix posted record quarterly revenue and profit as AI memory demand powers growth. Revenue for the December quarter was 32.827 trillion won, ahead of the 32.132 trillion won SmartEstimates, while operating profit reached 19.17 trillion won, above the 17.729 trillion won forecast. Year over year, revenue rose about 66% and operating profit surged 137%. The company, a key HBM supplier, benefited from surging memory prices and demand for high-bandwidth memory in data centers. Demand for HBM has outpaced supply, prompting shortages in other chips. SK Hynix also announced a plan to cancel treasury shares worth 12.24 trillion won to boost shareholder value. Management cited a Microsoft-built AI processor as a driver of new demand. The firm will hold an earnings call; Samsung is also due to report.

Bland AI mental health advice linked to training-time content homogenization and convergence

January 28, 2026, 8:14 AM EST. The column argues that bland AI mental health guidance stems from training-time content homogenization and convergence. Developers tune large language models to avoid strong or controversial replies, a process that softens tone and substance. The effect is widespread: millions consult AI for mental health advice, with services seen as readily accessible and low-cost. Yet safety remains a concern as models risk inappropriate guidance or misdiagnosis. The piece points to ongoing scrutiny, including a 60 Minutes appearance and a lawsuit against OpenAI over safeguards. The analysis frames this as part of broader AI breakthroughs and cautionary notes about risks, including bias, overreliance, and the need for clear boundaries between therapy and guidance. The column promises further coverage of AI complexities.

Microsoft's Maia 200 chip aims to disrupt AI-inference market, challenging Nvidia

January 28, 2026, 8:12 AM EST. Microsoft unveiled Maia 200, its second-generation in-house AI inference chip, on Jan. 26. Built on Taiwan Semiconductor's 3-nanometer process, Maia 200 aims to compete with Nvidia GPUs and rivals such as AWS Trainium and Google TPU. Microsoft says the chip offers about 30% better performance for the same price, underscoring a price-performance edge as buyers grow price-sensitive. Initially deployed by Microsoft's AI team, Maia 200 will roll out to Azure cloud customers and be offered for rent, a feature not available with its predecessor. With Azure and cloud-services revenue rising in Q1 FY2026, Microsoft expects Maia 200 to drive ongoing AI-led growth, though overtaking Nvidia remains uncertain, with results arriving late 2026.

56% of CEOs See No ROI From AI; 12% Profit by Deeply Embedding AI in Workflows

January 28, 2026, 8:08 AM EST. New January reports from PwC, Anthropic and OpenAI warn that AI adoption is rising but returns lag. The 56% of CEOs reporting no revenue or cost reductions, and 12% reaping both, mark a shift from counting users to counting auditable outcomes. The lesson: pilots proliferate without workflow redesign. Boards are urged to demand CIOs report on economic primitives-task complexity, autonomy and success rates-rather than login counts. Anthropic data show a 3.3-hour average for software development tasks and 1.8 hours for personal-management tasks, underscoring the need to target high-value, high-complexity work. OpenAI highlights a power user dividend and a broad capability overhang across 70+ countries. In short: value follows integration, not usage alone.

Microsoft issues emergency Office patch for zero-day exploit (CVE-2026-21509)

January 28, 2026, 8:04 AM EST. Microsoft issued an emergency Office patch after confirming a zero-day flaw is being exploited in the wild. The vulnerability, CVE-2026-21509, rates 7.8 on CVSS and is described as a security feature bypass that lets attackers bypass protections for legacy components such as COM and OLE. Exploitation requires a user to open a malicious Office file, with no reliance on the preview pane. Updates cover newer Office builds; Office 2016/2019 users must wait. Microsoft recommends registry-based mitigations to block vulnerable COM and OLE controls, a deployment challenge for large organizations. CISA has added the flaw to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog, setting a February deadline for federal agencies.

Xynavo AR glasses weigh 95g, deliver cinema-scale 300-inch display with dual 4K panels

January 28, 2026, 7:50 AM EST. Xynavo pitches a lightweight pair of AR glasses designed to replace VR headsets for home and travel. Weighing 95g, they bundle a 70-degree field of view with dual 4K micro-OLED displays, delivering a cinema-scale image allegedly equivalent to over 300 inches. The device emphasizes private audio via magnetic in-ear modules and a diopter adjustment range of +2D to -6D to fit users with or without glasses. It supports two 3D split-screen modes at 3840×1080 and 1920×1080 for co-viewing, gaming, or two-device sharing, and can connect to laptops via USB-C or HDMI. Battery life and real-world performance were not disclosed. The product is marketed at $299 (regular $499) with limited-unit availability and has raised over $199,200 to date.

Exynos 2700 surfaces in Geekbench with 4 + 1 + 4 + 1 core cluster

January 28, 2026, 7:44 AM EST. Samsung's next flagship Exynos 2700 has appeared in Geekbench 6 listings, showing a deca-core cluster described as 4 + 1 + 4 + 1. An ERD development board is used to test energy-aware scheduling and architecture, mixing cores from different generations. OpenCL scores lag the Exynos 2600 on the same test, but Samsung is pushing a 2nm GAA process (SF2P) and steering partners toward LPDDR6 RAM and UFS 5.0 storage. A tipster says benchmarking aims to validate scheduling rather than showcase performance, with results reflecting early-stage hardware. Clock speeds reach up to 2.88 GHz. Samsung also hints at an Exynos 2800 with an in-house GPU, as it competes with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro.

China clears first batch of NVIDIA H200 AI chips for import – sources

January 28, 2026, 7:42 AM EST. China has approved its first batch of NVIDIA H200 AI chips for import, according to Reuters sources. The move marks a shift as Beijing balances AI development needs with support for its domestic semiconductor industry. The approval covers several hundred thousand chips granted during Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's visit this week. The chips are slated for tech giants ByteDance, Alibaba, and Tencent, with more firms waiting. None of the companies responded to comment requests. The H200 is Nvidia's second-most powerful AI chip and a flashpoint in U.S.-China relations. Washington cleared export, but Beijing's import hesitation has been the main barrier. Chinese firms have ordered over two million H200 chips, outstripping Nvidia's inventory; domestic rivals like Huawei are improving but lag. It remains unclear how many more approvals Beijing will grant.

Tesla's FSD subscription price to rise as capabilities improve, Musk says

January 28, 2026, 6:54 AM EST. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said the FSD subscription price will rise as the software's capabilities improve. The current $99 monthly rate is not fixed, with Musk noting there will be a massive value jump when new features arrive. The option to buy FSD outright remains at $8,000, but for new Tesla buyers, the February 14 deadline ends the upfront purchase in favor of monthly subscriptions. Musk did not quantify how often prices will increase or by how much, but he confirmed the cost will rise "as FSD's capabilities improve." The discussion follows Musk's hint that future updates could enable unsupervised driving, including talking on a phone or sleeping while the car navigates. Investors will watch whether price hikes reflect meaningful improvements.

Wear OS Google Messages could get reactions, emoji picker and mark-as-read

January 28, 2026, 6:50 AM EST. Wear OS users could soon add reactions to Google Messages on smartwatches, easing the switch from tap-to-reply. Android Authority found a new MessageReactionsActivity string in the Wear OS build, hinting at an emoji picker, sticker reactions and the option to remove reactions. Photomojis' availability remains unclear, but reactions may display if sent from the Android app. The update may also bring a Mark as read control from notifications, helping manage unread counts. No launch timeline was given, but the changes would align Wear OS messaging more closely with Android, reducing the need to type brief replies on small screens.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra price rise prompts wait-and-refurbish strategy

January 28, 2026, 6:48 AM EST. Samsung is weighing a price increase for the Galaxy S26 Ultra as it gears up for a late February 2026 launch, while mounting memory and component costs squeeze margins. Industry chatter cites a price hike of roughly $31 to $62 per model, and analysts warn promotions could shrink as a result. Buyers face another reality: flagship phones shed value quickly. SellCell's six- and twelve-month depreciation data show the Galaxy S23 and S24 losing nearly half their value at six to twelve months, with the S25 tracking similarly. A six-month wait typically yields a substantial saving when buying refurbished, though trade-in values remain the floor. For deal hunters, the takeaway: wait six months, consider a trusted refurbished unit, and watch promo dynamics as the S26 launches.

Google previews Aluminium OS, a unifying platform replacing Chrome OS with Android on PCs

January 28, 2026, 6:32 AM EST. Google briefly revealed Aluminium OS, a planned unification of Chrome OS and Android for PCs, in a Chromium Issue Tracker bug report. Spotted by 9to5Google, the report includes two screen recordings showing the system UI, split-screen multitasking, and the Play Store and Chrome apps running on the platform, reportedly on an HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook. The UI shows a desktop-style taskbar with a centered start button and an Android 16-style status bar. The recordings also hint at an in-Place update flow via the Play Store, contrasting with Chrome OS behavior. Google has restricted access to the report, but observers say work on Android on big screens should proceed in tandem with Aluminium OS planning.

Atlas edges Optimus in humanoid-robot race as Hyundai backs Boston Dynamics

January 28, 2026, 6:30 AM EST. Tesla's focus on autonomy has supported a high market valuation, even as EV unit sales cooled and profit margins slipped. The company's robotics venture faces rising competition from Boston Dynamics, now majority-owned by Hyundai Motor Group, which paid $1.1 billion in 2021 for an 80% stake. The company's humanoid Atlas has dominated CES discussions, earning Best Robot praise from CNET Group, and is moving toward commercial production with plans for tens of thousands in Hyundai factories. By contrast, Optimus is still on the drawing board. Analysts say Atlas has an edge in mobility and agility, and could be first to market. Still, both projects face execution risk and untested business models.

China approves first batch of Nvidia H200 AI chips for import, sources say

January 28, 2026, 6:20 AM EST. China has approved the first batch of Nvidia's H200 AI chips for import, according to two people familiar with the matter. The clearance, granted during Nvidia Chief Executive Jensen Huang's visit to China this week, covers several hundred thousand chips and signals a shift as Beijing weighs AI needs against domestic development. The initial approvals were allocated mainly to three large Chinese internet platforms, with other firms entering a queue for subsequent clearances, one source said. Authorities in charge of industry and commerce and Nvidia did not respond to requests for comment by press time. The move underscores a careful balance: easing access to advanced hardware while supporting domestic tech ambitions.

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

January 28, 2026, 6:10 AM EST. Apple announced a new Black Unity Braided Solo Loop for Apple Watch to honor Black History Month. The band is an in-house design by Black creatives and Apple partners, drawing on the colors of the Pan-African flag. It is made from recycled polyester using precision braiding, offering a soft feel and sweat- and water-resistance. It goes on sale today on Apple's website, with Apple Stores stocking it by week's end. The band is priced at $99 and comes in 42mm and 46mm sizes, compatible with Apple Watch Series 4 and later, including SE and Ultra models. Apple notes the release continues its tradition of using product launches to highlight Black history and culture.

SpaceX launches GPS III-9 mission from Cape Canaveral, Florida

January 28, 2026, 6:04 AM EST. SpaceX launched the GPS III-9 satellite from Cape Canaveral, Florida, as part of the U.S. military's program to modernize the Global Positioning System. The Falcon 9 rocket carried the satellite to orbit for later deployment and on-orbit testing. Ground controllers reported a clean ascent and satellite health checks were underway after launch. GPS III-9 is one of a series of newer satellites designed to provide greater accuracy and stronger resistance to jamming for civilian users and national security applications. Space Force officials expect the spacecraft to join the GPS constellation in the coming weeks, enhancing reliability for navigation, timing, and critical infrastructure. The mission reflects ongoing efforts to refresh the aging GPS fleet with newer hardware and software.

Anthropic CEO warns AI could trigger unusually painful disruption to jobs

January 28, 2026, 5:58 AM EST. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei warned that AI could cause an unusually painful disruption to the job market. In a roughly 20,000-word essay, he argues AI will act as a general labor substitute for humans, not simply replace individual roles, and that the pace of progress risks broader, faster shocks. He cautions about autonomous AI, misuse by bad actors including bio-weapons, and the possibility of a global totalitarian dictatorship if nations leverage AI for power. Amodei says the workforce may struggle to recover quickly and notes past tech shocks affected only part of human capability, whereas AI could affect the full range. The piece adds that the social, political and technological systems may lack maturity to manage the transition.

Clawdbot rebrands to Moltbot as security worries persist over agentic AI on the web

January 28, 2026, 5:56 AM EST. Clawdbot has rebranded to Moltbot after trademark pressure from Anthropic. The open-source AI personal assistant can be driven via WhatsApp and Telegram and offers agentic tasks such as replying to emails, managing calendars, screening calls and booking reservations with minimal prompts. The trade-off is access: Moltbot must read messages and need credentials to accounts, apps and even bank details, pushing sensitive data to the bot. Security researchers warn misconfigurations and internet exposure can leave deployments vulnerable. Jamieson O'Reilly of Dvuln noted hundreds of instances visible online and warned that unauthenticated admin access could leak months of private messages, API keys and more. Some deployments were protected; many were misconfigured or in testing.

Apple in talks with SpaceX to add Starlink direct-to-cell to iPhone 18 Pro, The Information reports

January 28, 2026, 5:52 AM EST. The Information reports Apple is in early negotiations with SpaceX to embed Starlink satellite connectivity in the 2026 iPhone 18 Pro. The plan would allow direct-to-cell satellite service on the device, expanding outdoor coverage beyond terrestrial networks. The report cautions the discussions are at an early stage and could still change. Apple did not immediately respond to requests for comment. If realized, the feature would mark a significant expansion of device connectivity, potentially appealing to adventurers and users in areas with limited cellular coverage, while raising questions about cost, power use and regulatory approvals.

Meta's Advantage+ AI ads could drive next AI stock gains, Wall Street says

January 28, 2026, 5:46 AM EST. Meta Platforms is betting on Advantage+, a suite of machine-learning models to automate, test, target and price ads across its properties. The aim: pull advertisers closer with higher conversion rates and pricing power. Unlike grand AI road maps that promise autonomous systems, Advantage+ shows tangible impact on revenue today. The approach should improve ad ROI, boost advertiser stickiness, and widen margins as free cash flow grows. Analysts say the AI ad push could position Meta Platforms as the next major AI stock beyond semiconductors, signaling a potential shift in growth drivers for big tech. Investors are watching how this platform translates into faster top-line growth and profit expansion.

Amazon misdirected email sparks chatter of new layoffs across AWS and retail units

January 28, 2026, 5:40 AM EST. An internal email at Amazon that was inadvertently circulated to staff referenced 'organizational adjustments' and 'affected colleagues,' feeding speculation of a fresh round of layoffs. The message, tied to a project called Dawn, mentions AWS chief Colleen Aubrey and Beth Galetti, the head of human resources, and notes the post was 'canceled' after it was sent. People familiar with the matter say the timing could align with Amazon's upcoming Q4 earnings release, due after the market closes on February 5. The chatter follows a 14,000 corporate-job cut announced last October, with CEO Andy Jassy citing reductions in managerial layers and AI-driven efficiency. Separately, Amazon said it would reorganize its grocery business, refocusing on Whole Foods and online delivery.

Apple iPad Pro 13-inch discounted to $899.99 from $1,299

January 28, 2026, 5:22 AM EST. Sponsored content from Mashable partners promotes the Apple iPad Pro 13-inch, now on sale for $899.99 (reg. $1,299). The deal highlights the tablet's speed, visuals and portability, often cited as a laptop substitute. Apple describes the iPad Pro as ultra-thin and weighing about one pound, stressing its travel-ready form. The promo also notes prices can change after publication and that affiliate compensation may apply. For shoppers considering an upgrade, the discount makes the iPad Pro a strong option, though buyers should measure app needs and keyboard costs against a laptop.

C12 and Classiq Team Up to Scale Quantum Computing with Callisto Digital Twin

January 28, 2026, 5:18 AM EST. European deep-tech firm C12 and Classiq unveil a partnership to accelerate scalable quantum computing by merging Callisto digital twin with Classiq's software platform. Callisto models up to 13 noisy qubits using realistic noise parameters, enabling algorithm design and testing ahead of future hardware. The integration links C12's spin-qubit processors-built from ultra-pure carbon nanotubes-to the Classiq toolchain, letting developers work with the Qmod language and synthesis engine on a realistic model. CEO quotes from Desjardins and Minerbi highlight moving beyond theory toward practical quantum applications and aligning R&D with hardware roadmaps. The effort aims to bridge hardware and software, delivering a scalable framework for quantum applications.

Deutsche Bank upgrades CoreWeave after Nvidia investment

January 28, 2026, 5:10 AM EST. Deutsche Bank analyst Brad Zelnick upgraded CoreWeave to Buy from Hold, boosting the stock's target to $140 from $100, about 42% upside. Nvidia disclosed a $2 billion investment in CoreWeave, intended to speed its plan for '5 gigawatts of AI factories by 2030' and strengthen CoreWeave's technical leadership. Zelnick said the deal validates demand growth and supports favorable GPU economics and asset quality, keeping the shares attractive ahead of CoreWeave's upcoming results. The investment deepens Nvidia's access to CoreWeave's compute resources and accelerates integration with new Nvidia architectures, increasing the chance Nvidia includes CoreWeave's SUNK and Mission Control software in its reference designs, unlocking a future hybrid/multi-cloud software opportunity. CoreWeave has risen ~146% since going public but remains down ~46% from its all-time high last June.

Apple iOS 26.2.1: Should You Upgrade?

January 28, 2026, 5:06 AM EST. Apple released iOS 26.2.1 as a minor update with bug fixes and new features, not a security patch. It is compatible with iPhones from 2019 onward, covering iPhone 11 through iPhone 17 and newer; iPhone XS, XS Max and XR are not supported for this release. The update is under 1GB and installed via Settings > General > Software Update. Highlights include AirTag support and other enhancements. There are no security updates in this release, though Apple issued related updates for older devices. Early reactions are largely positive, praising stability and fixes. The initial verdict: update recommended for supported devices, especially for AirTag users.

Top AI chip stocks to buy with $50,000 in 2026: Nvidia and TSMC lead

January 28, 2026, 5:00 AM EST. AI infrastructure is fueling growth in the chip market as hyperscalers expand data centres. Nvidia remains the default platform for training and inference, supported by its CUDA software stack. Gartner puts AI-processing semiconductors revenue above $200 billion last year, and Bloomberg Intelligence forecasts the AI GPU TAM to grow at about a 14% CAGR through 2033, with Nvidia potentially holding up to 75% of the market by 2030. Nvidia is also pursuing new lines, including a roughly $20 billion tie-up with Groq to bolster inference. The stock trades near long-term lows on forward earnings despite competition from AMD and Broadcom. TSMC is a natural foundry partner, underscoring the need for scalable fabrication. The piece outlines three semiconductor bets for 2026, including a $50,000 allocation.

Nokia Magic Max 5G hype meets climate reality

January 28, 2026, 4:52 AM EST. A new phone touted as a giant battery and top camera raises questions about environmental impact. The Nokia Magic Max 5G is advertised with a 7,000 mAh battery, a 230-megapixel AI camera and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip at a low price, but experts warn that big specs come with a production footprint. A Wuppertal Institute paper notes ICT accounts for about 8% of Germany's CO2, with roughly 20 million smartphones sold annually there, and that around 80% of emissions occur during manufacturing. Life-cycle analyses show mining metals drive most damage; longer device use could cut emissions by about half. Official progress remains unclear while brands face calls for durability and transparency.

Web sites stall when JavaScript is blocked, highlighting client-side load failures

January 28, 2026, 4:34 AM EST. A client challenge underscores how many websites rely on JavaScript to render essential components. When JavaScript is disabled in a browser, a required part of the site may fail to load, leaving users with incomplete pages and error messages. The issue can stem from network problems, browser settings, or extensions that block scripts. In the report, users were advised to check their connection, disable ad blockers, or try a different browser to access content. Industry experts say the problem highlights a broader risk for sites that depend on client-side scripting for core features. Companies are increasingly testing fallbacks and progressive enhancement to keep critical functions available even when scripting is blocked.

ASML's $250 Million EUV Printer Powers Nvidia Chips

January 28, 2026, 4:30 AM EST. ASML dominates lithography with the only broadly deployed EUV printers used to manufacture leading semiconductors. Each system costs about $250 million and is central to building chips for Nvidia and its AI ecosystem. The machines, roughly the size of a school bus and weighing about 150 tons, use lasers, mirrors and magnets to pattern silicon wafers at 13-nanometer scale. Droplets of tin are blasted by powerful lasers to generate EUV light, guided by Zeiss mirrors in a vacuum. The wafers ride on magnetically levitated stages at speeds of 70 to 80 meters per second. Units are assembled in the Netherlands and shipped to fabs owned by TSMC, Samsung, SK Hynix, Intel and Micron. ASML delivered 44 units last year; demand is seen rising in 2026-27.

Tesla Robotaxis in Austin claim 'unsupervised' operation; monitors linger in chase cars

January 28, 2026, 4:22 AM EST. Tesla says its long-gestating Robotaxis are operating in Austin with no in-car safety monitor, a milestone that sent Tesla shares up more than 4%. In practice, footage from Austin suggests a human safety monitor may still be nearby in a chase vehicle, leaving the ride not truly unsupervised. Musk's wording has sparked scrutiny about what counts as unsupervised autonomy. By contrast, Waymo operates tens of millions of fully unsupervised miles across several U.S. cities, despite problems in places like San Francisco. The episode underscores how the industry defines autonomy and how marketing language translates to on-ground safety controls and backup staff.

Nokia Magic Max 5G hype collides with climate data: longer use matters more than mega batteries

January 28, 2026, 3:50 AM EST. Tech hype surrounds the Nokia Magic Max 5G, a phone pitched with a 7,000 mAh battery, a 230-megapixel AI camera and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 at a low price. But climate experts warn that the environmental price tag of smartphone production dwarfs daily charging. A 2024 Wuppertal Institute paper found ICT accounts for about 8% of Germany's CO2 emissions, with roughly 80% of a phone's footprint arising in manufacturing. Life-cycle studies show mining metals and complex fabrication drive most harm before a store shelf. The Shift Project puts total energy across a phone's life well above what appears on a home bill. Proponents say longer device use reduces emissions; skeptics say bigger batteries raise material costs and affect repairability. As of Jan 2026, neither Nokia nor HMD Global lists the model, despite online hype.

Tesla's Austin robotaxi marketed as unsupervised draws scrutiny

January 28, 2026, 3:48 AM EST. Tesla said its Robotaxi rides in Austin are 'unsupervised' and that there is no safety monitor in the car. Observers say a safety monitor may still ride in a separate vehicle behind the robotaxi, so the ride isn't truly unsupervised. True unsupervised autonomy, as demonstrated by Waymo, means the vehicle operates without any human backup and has logged tens of millions of miles. Tesla's claim has prompted investor enthusiasm but skeptics caution that the Austin deployments still rely on behind-the-scenes intervention. Waymo's miles in multiple U.S. cities show the bar for fully autonomous driving remains high, even as Tesla pushes marketing language. The company has not publicly explained the role of accompanying chase cars in Austin.

South Korea eyes a 'physical AI' edge by turning factories into learning labs

January 28, 2026, 3:44 AM EST. South Korea rolled out a Manufacturing AI Transformation strategy to fuse data and artificial intelligence for productivity and self-sustained growth. The plan aims to build infrastructure while boosting demand for AI. Analysts note the United States leads in large language models; China scales AI services at home. For Korea, the challenge is pairing data with real-world tasks. A developing concept, "physical AI," embeds AI in machines such as robots and autonomous vehicles to perform factory work. It requires data on physical skills and movement, not just text. Teleoperation-style training-workers guiding robots while sensors record movement-lets machines learn through demonstration, producing skilled movement data. Korea's strength in manufacturing could translate tacit expertise from places like Ulsan and Changwon into a national asset, turning factories into AI learning laboratories.

Korea's manufacturing base could fuel a physical AI edge

January 28, 2026, 3:42 AM EST. South Korea's government rolled out Manufacturing AI Transformation to fuse data and AI for higher productivity and sustained growth. Yet many firms still wonder what to do with AI beyond buying Nvidia GPUs and building data centers. The United States leads in large language models; China scales AI services at home. For Korea, the path is building infrastructure while generating demand. A growing concept, physical AI, envisions AI embodied in robots and autonomous vehicles. Unlike text and image data, factory-floor know-how-skilled movements and manual technique-must be captured. Teleoperation and demonstration learning turn tacit know-how into training data. Korea could digitize veteran expertise from places like Ulsan and Changwon, turning factories into AI learning laboratories with a durable edge.

Turkey closes gap with EU in BEV sales as Togg drives adoption

January 28, 2026, 3:40 AM EST. From 44 BEV buyers in 2016 to 7% of new-car sales in 2023, Turkey's electric market accelerated. By 2025 BEVs accounted for 16.7% of new-car sales, just below the EU's 17.4% and making Turkey the fourth-largest BEV market in Europe after Germany, the UK and France. The pace outstrips most of southern and eastern Europe, though the Netherlands and Nordic nations still lead globally. Analysts attribute the surge to Turkey's special consumption tax, which keeps EVs only modestly pricier than petrol cars, and to continued demand after August tax rises. Togg, Turkey's domestic carmaker, helped normalise adoption and overtook Tesla in 2024. Foreign automakers benefit from a tax system that supports imports, alongside state-backed credit programs.

Turkey's EV surge matches EU pace as BEV share climbs toward 17%

January 28, 2026, 3:38 AM EST. Turkey's BEV market accelerated, with electric cars making up 16.7% of new-car registrations in 2025, just below the EU's 17.4%. The country ranks fourth in Europe behind Germany, the UK and France. In 2023 BEVs were rare (about 7%), but uptake surged as imports from brands including Tesla competed with the state-backed Togg. Togg overtook Tesla as Turkey's leading EV seller in 2024 and plans to lift production to 60,000 in 2026 from 40,000 in 2025. Analysts say tax policy keeps BEVs only slightly more expensive than petrol cars, making affordability the main driver, while running costs favor electrics. The shift supports decarbonisation goals as Turkey hosts the UN climate summit.

Tesla El Camino-inspired pickup by Simone Giertz shows garage-to-road reality

January 28, 2026, 3:34 AM EST. An Autopian favorite becomes reality: a Tesla-based pickup that nods to the El Camino. Inventor Simone Giertz built a working EV ute by converting a Model 3 in 2019, years before any official Tesla ute. She later drove it to the Cybertruck launch, showing how garage hacks can cross from clever concept to road-ready vehicle. The project has echoed through Autopian coverage, with Kristen Lee and colleagues revisiting similar builds and the tensions between enthusiasts and brand protection. The broader conversation touches on car-modification culture, legal risk, and the playful frontier between automotive history and modern electrification. In short: a home-built, garage-tested Tesla-inspired pickup that turned imagination into a tangible vehicle.

MoCA 2.5: A low-cost coax-based option to improve home internet

January 28, 2026, 3:32 AM EST. MoCA 2.5 uses existing coaxial cable to deliver internet data. Short for Multimedia over Coax Alliance, the standard can reach up to 2.5 Gbps with typically low latency-under 2.5 milliseconds. While some plans can exceed 5 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps fits most homes. An adapter is needed to connect the router to the coax network and to devices. The result is a reliable, wired-like connection for desktops and laptops, enabling 4K streaming, large file transfers, high-resolution video calls, and smoother online gaming. WiFi isn't dead in brick-walled homes, but MoCA breathes new life into existing cabling and is a low-cost alternative when wireless fails.

NOAA scales back GeoXO budget, trims geostationary weather satellite plan

January 28, 2026, 3:30 AM EST. NOAA is keeping a tight rein on the GeoXO program as costs rise, scaling back the constellation from six satellites to four, with two in orbit at a time. If prices blow past estimates, officials will descope features to fit the budget. The first GeoXO satellite, due to launch in 2032 to replace GOES West, will carry an Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) and may include a Lockheed Martin lightning mapper. A second satellite, GeoXO East, scheduled for 2034, will use an updated GXI built by L3Harris with 18 spectral bands and higher resolution on several bands. A hyperspectral infrared sounder from BAE Systems is expected to yield major forecast benefits. NOAA is reviewing the mission integration contract and acquisition strategy this year.

Clawdbot fans drive Mac Minis demand as AI buzz swells

January 28, 2026, 3:28 AM EST. Clawdbot has sparked a surge of online interest among AI enthusiasts, driving demand for Mac Minis as compact platforms for experiments. Buyers describe the devices as affordable, quiet, and easy to set up for lightweight models. The trend highlights how hobbyist communities can steer hardware demand even as supply chains shift. While analysts warn that the pace could wax and wane, the immediate effect is a visible pull on small-form computers used for AI demos and edge projects, reinforcing the appeal of accessible, capable machines in a growing ecosystem centered on Clawdbot.

Prices leak for Moto G17, G77 and Edge 70 Fusion in Europe

January 28, 2026, 3:24 AM EST. Retailer listings in Italy show early price tags for the Moto G17, G77 and Motorola Edge 70 Fusion. The G17 is listed at €294.90 for 8GB RAM and 256GB storage; the G77 at €376.89; and the Edge 70 Fusion at €478.90, all with 8GB/256GB. The prices aren't final and may shift before official launches. A separate Greek listing confirms specs: the G77 has a 6.8-inch AMOLED FHD+ screen at 120Hz, Gorilla Glass 7i, Dimensity 6400, 32MP selfie, 108MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 5,200mAh battery with 30W charging, and IP64 dust/splash resistance. The Edge 70 Fusion uses a 6.78-inch AMOLED 144Hz, 5,200-nit peak brightness, Gorilla Glass 7i, 50MP main, 32MP selfie, 7,000mAh, 68W charging, and Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, with Android 16 from day one. All three are expected to be official soon.

Alphabet Seen as AI-First Quantum Play Among Tech Titans, Not a Pure-Play Quantum Bet

January 28, 2026, 3:18 AM EST. Investors face three ways to play quantum computing: a pure-play stock such as Quantum Computing Inc.; an ETF; or a tech titan ramping quantum capabilities. The piece favors the ETF route or a big tech name over a speculative pure-play. It endorses Alphabet (GOOGL/GOOG) as a practical AI-driven play among the titans. Alphabet posted a standout 2025, delivering roughly a 65% return as part of the Magnificent Seven, but analysts warn about higher capex in 2025-26 that trimmed operating margins by about a percentage point last quarter. The concerns are balanced by continued momentum in AI and cloud, especially for hyperscalers like Alphabet. Regulatory and legal risks remain, including a consumer antitrust class action over Google search; remedies from a 2020 case are on appeal.

Samsung teases Galaxy S26 Ultra privacy display that auto-activates in crowded spaces

January 28, 2026, 3:16 AM EST. Samsung has teased a privacy display feature for the Galaxy S26 Ultra that can automatically activate when users enter passwords or view sensitive data, then revert to normal to preserve wide OLED viewing angles. The function can be time- or app-based, and can trigger for incoming notifications as well. In Samsung's teaser, the technology would prove useful in three scenarios: unlocking a phone in a crowded elevator, reading a personal message on a bus, and typing a password on the subway. Samsung says the privacy display project ran for five years. The teaser image credits OnLeaks/Android Headlines.

DigitalOcean Recasts AI Infrastructure Ambitions With CPTO Hire

January 28, 2026, 3:14 AM EST. DigitalOcean appointed Vinay Kumar as Chief Product and Technology Officer in January 2026, charging him with product strategy, cloud infrastructure and security as the company scales its AI inference platform. A veteran who helped build Oracle Cloud Infrastructure from inception, Kumar signals a deeper push into production-grade AI and cloud services. The leadership change centers the investment narrative on execution, with markets reacting to his Oracle background as a signal of reliability. However, DigitalOcean carries leverage and negative equity that could limit strategic flexibility, and earnings are forecast to decline in the near term amid execution risks. Near-term catalysts include broader adoption of the AI inference platform and converting wins into repeatable revenue, though results depend on sustained AI demand and cost discipline.

QuEra Bets On Efficient, Affordable Quantum Computing

January 28, 2026, 3:04 AM EST. QuEra Computing pitches a practical, affordable path to quantum advantage with a neutral-atom approach that operates near room-temperature, uses low-power and aims for a compact footprint. In interviews, executives argue this enables on-premises deployments and tighter integration with classical HPC, exemplified by an on-site install at Japan's AIST and a recent Dell Technologies collaboration that aligns classical and quantum resources for HQCC-style workflows. In pharma, Amgen Research and partners showed a hybrid quantum-classical system improving predictions from small datasets, delivering less variability and a better fit to underlying data distributions. QuEra contrasts this with IBM/Google superconducting paths, which may require rooms-sized facilities, suggesting an affordable alternative for near-term applications in AI, energy, and biology.

VITURE Beast XR review: 1200-nit display, 174-inch virtual screen and 3D modes

January 28, 2026, 3:02 AM EST. VITURE's Beast XR glasses aim to blend wearable convenience with a huge virtual display. The device uses a 1200p panel, a 58° field of view, and can reach up to 120 Hz after a firmware update, delivering a simulated 174-inch screen for movies, games and work. The experience is boosted by electrochromic dimming for adjustable lens transparency and a front RGB camera for touch interactions. Connectivity hinges on USB-C, with an external dock enabling gaming on devices such as the Nintendo Switch, via Space Walker for spatial video and 3D photos. Yet, full use depends on future firmware; some immersive 3D content is uneven, and power drawn from connected devices necessitates external power for longer sessions. A portable, versatile XR option, but not a universal fix.

Rigetti Computing stock in 12 months: bulls versus bears

January 28, 2026, 3:00 AM EST. Rigetti Computing's SPAC-backed march continues to polarize investors. After a 9.75 open on March 2, 2022, the stock fell to a record low of 0.38 in May 2023, then peaked at 56.34 in October 2025; it trades around $22 today. Bulls argue Rigetti's full-stack approach-combining QPUs, its Forest cloud platform, and system deployments like Ankaa-3 (84-qubit) and Cepheus-1-36Q (36-qubit)-positions it for growth as it rolls out a 108-qubit system this year and aims for 150+ and then 1,000+ qubits by 2027. Revenue could rise to about $20.4 million in 2026 and $45.4 million in 2027, justifying a premium valuation. Bears counter with a $7.2 billion cap and about 160x expected 2027 sales, plus concerns about older tech and competition.

Apple to keep iPhone 18 price steady amid RAM crunch, says analyst

January 28, 2026, 2:58 AM EST. The RAM squeeze across tech supply chains is reverberating through smartphones. TrendForce warns Samsung could lift iPhone-memory prices by more than 80%, with SK Hynix and others likely pushing up NAND and related components. Yet Ming-Chi Kuo says Apple will not raise the iPhone 18's price, noting LPDDR pricing aligns with his view and NAND-flash costs remain softer. He adds Apple has negotiated memory pricing quarterly, illustrating the company's leverage. Kuo forecasts the iPhone 18 will start at the same price as the iPhone 17, while higher-storage variants may carry modest increases. The Pro and Pro Max arrive in September amid broader launch chatter, including a foldable model; the basic iPhone 18 could come next spring with the iPhone Air 2 in a split strategy. AI demand could strain other components too.

C3.AI in talks to merge with Automation Anywhere, The Information reports

January 28, 2026, 2:56 AM EST. Reuters reports that C3.AI is in talks to merge with privately held Automation Anywhere, per The Information. If the deal closes, Automation Anywhere would acquire C3.AI and pursue a public listing. Reuters could not verify the report, and neither company commented. Based in California, C3.AI runs a platform used to build and operate large-scale AI applications for clients including the U.S. Air Force and other government agencies, as well as energy and manufacturing sectors. Automation Anywhere makes software to automate repetitive tasks. The Information valued the buyer at about $6.8 billion in 2019. Reuters reported last year that C3.AI was exploring a sale after founder Thomas Siebel stepped down as CEO. The stock of C3.AI has fallen more than 59% in the past year amid weak performance and leadership uncertainty.

Chinese study links Starlink near-miss to mass orbit lowering of over 4,000 satellites

January 28, 2026, 2:54 AM EST. Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Software say a near-miss between a Chinese high-resolution Earth-imaging satellite and SpaceX's Starlink constellation helped prompt a decision to move more than 4,000 operating satellites to a lower orbit. The incident occurred December 10 when the Chinese satellite launched with eight other payloads on a Kinetica-1 rocket. No collision occurred, but the close call was said to be unsettling and directly triggered Starlink's move to lower satellites from about 550 km to 480 km to "increase space safety." The team used the institute's mega-constellation platform to identify the device built by Chang Guang Satellite Technology. The report cites a Space and Network article and posts by SpaceX officials.

Yahoo Scout aims for a web-first AI search blend

January 28, 2026, 2:50 AM EST. Yahoo's Scout is rolling out as a web-first AI search portal that sits within Yahoo Search, as a standalone web app, and as a central feature in the Yahoo mobile app. It blends traditional results with AI summaries, answering questions while guiding users to relevant sources. The project aims to revive Yahoo as a modern web guide, leveraging Yahoo's own content-sports, finance, news, weather, mail and shopping-to power an AI answer engine. Executives say Scout combines user data, usage patterns and content with search knowledge to deliver AI-assisted results. Yahoo argues it has an edge over Google in part because of its content and scale, even as Google remains the dominant platform. The piece closes on a note about Yahoo's specific advantage.

Microsoft tests Windows 11 behind-the-scenes platform changes in Insider Dev Channel

January 28, 2026, 2:40 AM EST. Microsoft has started testing the 26300 series in the Windows 11 Insider Dev Channel, ahead of a broader, behind-the-scenes platform refresh planned for this year. The builds advance beyond the 26220 series in the Beta Channel, with platform work embedded in each release and some changes expected to carry known issues. Germanium remains the in-market platform, while the 26300 line is expected to ship as version 26H2 this fall. Separately, Microsoft plans 26H1 this spring for next-gen Arm devices based on a newer platform codenamed Bromine, though Bromine is newer than Germanium. The company has faced criticism over earlier updates. Insiders can enroll and check for updates to access the 26300 builds.

Sundance AI documentary probes promises and perils of artificial intelligence

January 28, 2026, 2:34 AM EST. At Sundance, The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist dives into the promise and peril of AI. Directors Daniel Roher and Charlie Tyrell, with producer Daniel Kwan, assemble interviews with OpenAI chief Sam Altman and other AI luminaries to unpack a technology moving from private experiment to public good. Roher says the project grew from personal anxiety about parenting in an era of rapid automation. Experts explain how models are trained on data beyond what any single human can read, while insiders warn that some aspects of AI may remain beyond full human comprehension. Doomerists debate the risks of AGI; Tristan Harris cautions forecasts will look quaint once the film lands with audiences. The documentary aims to clarify jargon and weigh safety against opportunity.

Microsoft unveils Maia 200 AI chip to challenge Nvidia

January 28, 2026, 2:28 AM EST. Microsoft unveiled the Maia 200, a dedicated AI inference chip designed to lower the cost of running large language models. The company says the accelerator uses a reconfigured memory system and higher bandwidth to feed data more efficiently, delivering superior performance per dollar. In early claims, Maia benchmarks above Amazon's Trainium third-gen and Alphabet's TPU in similar tasks, and Microsoft calls it the most performant first-party silicon from a hyperscaler. The chip is aimed at powering Copilot and Azure OpenAI, with an SDK released for developers and researchers ahead of wider availability. The move intensifies competition with Nvidia, which still holds a dominant share in the data-center GPU market, though Maia targets inference workloads and cost efficiency.

Chinese AI firms accelerate model releases to outpace U.S. rivals

January 28, 2026, 2:26 AM EST. Beijing-based firms are expanding AI models at speed as U.S. peers push back. In one year since DeepSeek disrupted pricing, Moonshot AI unveiled K2.5 with video-generation and agentic features touted to beat OpenAI, Anthropic and Google on select tasks. Alibaba rolled out Qwen3-Max-Thinking, capable of selecting the best tool and leveraging past chats, claiming superiority on a proprietary benchmark. Z.ai released GLM 4.7, while Baidu's Ernie 5.0 drove its stock to multi-year highs after a claimed lead over Gemini-2.5-Pro. Google's DeepMind's Demis Hassabis said China's models could be only months behind the U.S. era. Beyond performance, Chinese firms push open-source, low-cost access to spur adoption in emerging markets and domestic ecosystems, aiming for breadth of use rather than sole headline wins.

Ericsson resists Nvidia-like pact, keeps chip options open

January 28, 2026, 2:24 AM EST. Ericsson and Nokia diverge on hardware strategy after Nokia struck a deal with Nvidia last October, making Nvidia a major shareholder and prompting Nokia to align 5G/6G software with GPUs. Ericsson pushes hardware-agnostic software, aiming to run RAN software on x86, GPUs, Google's TPU and future silicon, with CEO Börje Ekholm saying the group wants to be largely independent of the hardware layer. He noted they could run on GPUs or proprietary silicon, and even allow other architectures. The approach, dubbed anychip by Ericsson, contrasts with Nokia's anyRAN concept. Some observers see continued use of Marvell for Layer 1 as signaling a split, while Ericsson plans to decide hardware alignment closer to AI-RAN and 6G realities.

Florida Atlantic University to Host Onsite Quantum Computer, First in Florida

January 28, 2026, 2:22 AM EST. Florida Atlantic University will become the first in Florida to publicly host a large, dedicated quantum computer on campus. FAU signed an agreement with D-Wave Quantum Inc. to acquire and install the Advantage2 annealing quantum computer at its Boca Raton campus, with deployment expected later this year. The arrangement aims to accelerate research, expand hands-on student training, and advance real-world applications in logistics, transportation and materials discovery. D-Wave said its new U.S. corporate headquarters will be located at Boca Raton Innovation Center, creating a regional hub for quantum technology development. The partnership positions FAU as a center for quantum education and innovation, attracting industry and investment and preparing students to tackle problems beyond the reach of classical computers.

Strava and Komoot roll out offline route guidance for Apple Watch

January 28, 2026, 2:20 AM EST. Two fitness apps are expanding offline navigation on Apple Watch. Strava's update appears to unlock offline route guidance, with screenshots and user reports suggesting a beta-like rollout that does not require a paid subscription. Users can start a run, walk or ride with a pre-planned route and view the route over a subtle map; live re-routing is not yet offered. Strava has also pushed features like Instant Workouts to broaden activity types. Separately, Komoot now supports guided offline navigation on Apple Watch with turn-by-turn guidance available without a premium for now, including a roughly 1.5 km map buffer. Both moves point to more standalone GPS tracking on the watch, complementing watchOS offline-map improvements since 2023-24.

Galaxy S26 colors rumor points to four hues, conflicting leaks

January 28, 2026, 2:16 AM EST. New rumors outline Galaxy S26 colors. Theonecid on Twitter says the S26 series will ship in four hues – black, white, Cobalt Violet, and Sky Blue – matching earlier images of the Ultra SIM card tray from Ice Universe. Today's post omits two other colors Evan Blass previously claimed for the Ultra: silver shadow and pink gold. The conflicting reports underscore the uncertainty ahead of a potential launch, with color options still unresolved as Samsung approaches a reveal.

iOS 26.3 beta adds Android transfer, location privacy controls and EU-only notification forwarding

January 28, 2026, 2:00 AM EST. Apple's third iOS 26.3 beta expands cross-platform features and privacy controls. The highlight is a new "Transfer to Android" system that lets iPhone users move photos, messages, notes, apps, and even their phone number to an Android device; health data, Bluetooth devices, and locked notes aren't included. Apple and Google describe the feature as a step toward greater interoperability between iPhone and Android. A parallel update in the Android beta mirrors the switch. Another change is a new limit location data toggle that can restrict carrier networks to identify only rough location information, with supported devices and carriers listed in a settings help doc. The company also rolls out Notification Forwarding for third-party wearables, initially limited to the EU to align with DMA rules, noting privacy concerns.

Verizon sells TCL Tab 10 Nxtpaper 5G at $239, a color paper-like tablet for reading and casual use

January 28, 2026, 1:58 AM EST. Verizon sells the TCL Tab 10 Nxtpaper 5G for $239. TCL markets a color, paper-like Nxtpaper display that reduces blue light, has no traditional backlight, and minimizes glare. The tablet is pitched as an entertainment device that also functions well as an e-reader, with modes that switch between regular and Nxtpaper views. A user says it replaced a Kindle and an iPad after testing it for months, noting energy efficiency and readable screens in bright light. It's not a high-end tablet and won't replace a $1,000 iPad, but serves casual daily use and reading. The tech relies on E Ink-like ideas without matching true E Ink, offering smoother color yet slower rendering than top tablets. Overall, the device is a practical, affordable option for readers and casual browsing.

Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold to launch Jan 30 at $2,899, triple-folding phone

January 28, 2026, 1:54 AM EST. Samsung's will roll out the Galaxy Z TriFold in the United States on January 30, with a starting price of $2,899, making it the most expensive smartphone on the market. Unveiled after CES in Las Vegas, the device folds three ways to reveal a 10-inch tablet-sized display when fully opened. It ships with 512 GB of storage and a 200 MP camera, and Samsung says the TriFold endured a 200,000-fold durability test to prove longevity. The phone is offered only in black and will be sold at Samsung stores and on Samsung.com. Drew Blackard, senior VP of mobile product management, framed it as a balance of smartphone convenience and tablet usability, continuing Samsung's foldable lineage since the original Galaxy Fold in 2019. The iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at $1,999 with 2 TB storage, by comparison.

Google Search adds Gemini 3 to AI Overviews with follow-up questions

January 28, 2026, 1:52 AM EST. Google is upgrading Search with AI-powered features, adding Gemini 3 to AI Overviews and letting users ask follow-up questions for a seamless experience. The change shifts emphasis from links to AI interactions, letting users switch to AI Mode for deeper conversation. Robby Stein, Google's vice president of product for Search, described the pairing as a quick snapshot when you need it and a deeper conversation on demand. Gemini 3 now powers AI-generated summaries globally, delivering what Google calls best-in-class overview answers. The Verge's Robert Hart reported the rollout; Google did not immediately comment. Disclosure: Vox Media, The Verge's parent, has filed a lawsuit against Google over ad tech monopoly claims.

iOS 26.3 beta broadens Android interoperability and EU features

January 28, 2026, 1:50 AM EST. Apple rolled out the third iOS 26.3 beta for iPhone, focusing on interoperability with Android and new privacy and device-notification features. The centerpiece is a new Transfer to Android system, built with Google, letting iPhone users wirelessly move photos, messages, notes and apps to a new Android phone and carry the phone number, while Health data, locked notes and other sensitive data stay behind. Google is testing a reciprocal Android-to-iPhone flow. Apple also adds a limit price location feature intended to curb how carriers infer location data, requiring specific device models and carriers in listed regions. A fresh Notification Forwarding option lets iPhone alerts appear on one third-party wearable, but only in the EU as Apple readies for DMA compliance. More EU features are expected as beta continues.

Battery life vs. charging speed: which smartphone spec matters most

January 28, 2026, 1:44 AM EST. Smartphones are balancing longer battery life with faster charging. Advances like silicon-carbon batteries pushed capacities past 6,000 mAh to 7,300-10,001 mAh in models from OnePlus, Honor, and Realme, enabling use that can reach about two days for many users. On charging, OnePlus leads in the US with up to 100W, while Motorola tops 68W and overseas brands exceed 100W on flagships. Samsung and Google linger around 45W, meaning longer full charges even as battery capacity grows. The trade-off remains: do you prefer longer battery life between charges or fast charging that tops up quickly? Readers are invited to share whether higher capacity or quicker fill matters most for daily use.

Battery life vs charging speed: which smartphone spec matters most

January 28, 2026, 1:42 AM EST. Smartphones are pushing both endurance and speed. Silicon-carbon batteries push capacities past 6,000-10,000 mAh, letting models such as the OnePlus 13, 15 and Realme P4 Power reach two days of use on a charge. Other brands like Honor and Realme tout even larger packs; Galaxy and Pixel remain around 6,000 mAh. On charging, OnePlus leads in the U.S. with up to 100W; outside the U.S. speeds exceed 100W in many flagships. Samsung and Google hit around 45W, meaning longer full charges. The debate: would you rather a longer-lasting battery or faster charging if you could have both? Consumers are split, with many weighing practical use, charging availability, and travel needs.

Google Search adds Gemini 3 to AI Overviews, enables seamless follow-up questions

January 28, 2026, 1:38 AM EST. Google is upgrading its AI-powered Search with Gemini 3 in AI Overviews and introducing seamless follow-ups via AI Mode. Gemini 3 will power global AI-generated summaries in Overviews, the company says, delivering what marketers call a 'best-in-class' answer. Users can pepper the results with follow-up questions to keep a conversation going, bridging the gap between a traditional search and an AI chatbot. The flow is shown as scroll-and-type, with Robby Stein, Google's vice president of product, describing the shift as 'a quick snapshot when you need it, and deeper conversation when you want it.' The update underscores a broader move to prioritize AI interactions over pure links, though Google has not announced a timetable to retire classic Search. Disclosure: Vox Media, The Verge's parent, has sued Google over ad-tech practices. Reporting from London by Robert Hart.

Tesla Sales Fall 20% in Europe; BYD Surges Ahead in EV Market

January 28, 2026, 1:30 AM EST. European EV sales trends in 2025 show widening gap between legacy EV leaders and fast-rising Chinese competitors; Tesla losing ground while BYD gains momentum. In December, new-car registrations for Tesla across the EU, UK and nearby markets fell 20% YoY to 35,280 units. For the full year, Tesla registrations slid 27% to 238,656 units, signaling softer demand in a region that anchored its growth. BYD posted a 268.6% jump in European sales in 2025 to 187,657 units; regional market share rose to 1.4% from 0.4%. BEVs accounted for 17.4% of total EU auto sales in 2025, up from 13.6% in 2024; Hybrids remained the most popular at 34.5%. In December, BEV registrations climbed 51%, plug-in hybrids 36.7%, HEVs 5.8%; petrol/diesel declined.

How to protect your EV battery in cold weather

January 28, 2026, 1:28 AM EST. Cold weather reduces EV battery efficiency and raises energy demand, limiting range and extending charging times, a Vara Chevrolet service manager says. Michael Lopez notes that extreme cold can cut range by about 16% to 46%. For short trips, keep the battery at least 30% charged; for longer trips in cold weather, charge to 80%-100%. He cautions that rapid charging may be slower in freezing temperatures. Cabin heating and the defroster drain the pack faster, but EVs generally do not require idling to warm up; they're ready to drive after startup. When plugging in, charging hardware is designed to withstand wet or icy conditions, Lopez adds. Drivers should use the vehicle's app to monitor charge status and stay plugged in to stay charged.

Cold weather tips: how to protect your EV battery and maximize range

January 28, 2026, 1:26 AM EST. San Antonio service manager Michael Lopez says extreme cold lowers EV battery efficiency and raises energy demand. In freezing temps, he says range can shrink by about 16% to 46%. For short trips, keep the battery at least 30%; for longer drives, aim for 80% to 100%. He warns cold can extend charging times and that rapid charging may be limited. Using the defroster and heat drains the battery faster, but EVs generally don't require long warming pauses; you should be able to drive once you step on the pedal. Plug-in safety remains high: charging ports are designed to be waterproof and insulated. Drivers should use the vehicle's app to monitor status and stay plugged in.

Nvidia in 2026: one catalyst could unlock stock momentum

January 28, 2026, 1:24 AM EST. Market watchers have Nvidia on watch as 2026 opens with the stock near flat after a historic rally. AI-spending fears, geopolitical risk with China, and profit-taking weigh on sentiment, even as the company has posted outsized gains. The author argues there is one clear driver for 2026: Nvidia beating its own targets. The company has guided for about $65 billion in fiscal Q4 revenue; the case is for continuing to beat and lift guidance through calendar 2026. China exposure remains a togglable factor: regulators have approved H200 chip sales, and CEO Jensen Huang may visit China, hinting at renewed access. Even without China, demand for data centers and AI infrastructure supports upside, potentially lifting the stock if estimates are exceeded.

Nvidia in 2026: One move could restore momentum, market watcher says

January 28, 2026, 1:20 AM EST. Market watchers expect Nvidia to post about $65 billion in Q4 revenue, but shares have stalled in 2026 as investors weigh an AI-spending bubble and geopolitical risk in China. The piece argues Nvidia has exhausted investor enthusiasm after years of rapid gains. It predicts the company will beat fiscal 2026 Q4 guidance of $65 billion and keep raising guidance through 2026. The outlook hinges partly on regulatory approval to sell H200 chips in China and a likely return of its China business, with CEO Jensen Huang traveling there soon. Even without China, data-center AI demand remains robust, supporting upside. If the company hits new highs, Nvidia stock could regain momentum.

Apple to keep iPhone 18 price steady despite rising memory costs, says Kuo

January 28, 2026, 1:12 AM EST. Apple plans to hold the iPhone 18 starting price steady even as DRAM and other memory costs rise, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. He says Apple negotiates memory prices quarterly, with a second-quarter 2026 uptick likely and a 10% to 25% year-over-year increase already visible. The higher memory cost could compress iPhone gross margins, but Apple can lock in supply and absorb some costs, leveraging its bargaining power. The company has previously kept the base iPhone 17 price at $799, though the 17 Pro rose by $100 for a 256GB option. We expect the January 30 earnings call to discuss memory price shifts; Apple aims to avoid large price increases and may keep the iPhone 18 price flat. Other components and AI demand could pressure prices across brands.

Samsung teases built-in privacy screen for Galaxy S26 phones

January 28, 2026, 1:08 AM EST. Samsung is teasing a pixel-based built-in privacy screen for future Galaxy phones, not a traditional plastic shield. The company says the technology will prevent onlookers from peeking at the display by altering image visibility from side angles. The approach is described as non-physical, relying on software and micro-layers to create a privacy effect. Samsung did not confirm exact devices or timing, but executives indicated the feature could arrive with new Galaxy models that could debut next month, possibly including the Galaxy S26 line. Analysts say the move mirrors privacy-conscious trends in mobile devices. The shift away from physical privacy screens underscores a broader push toward integrated, seamless security features for mainstream smartphones.

Former CIA tech chief warns AI security must be baked in from day one to avoid Internet's fate

January 28, 2026, 1:06 AM EST. At Tel Aviv Cyberweek, former CIA chief technology officer Bob Flores warned that the Internet's creators did not embed security early, and AI must not repeat those mistakes. He told The Jerusalem Post that a security framework should be embedded from the start to prevent misuse. He described the Dark Web as a Wild West and urged developers to bake security into every stage of AI development. Flores outlined AI-driven threats, including malware built with AI tools and AI agents infiltrating financial and security institutions, with defenses needing continual adaptation. He cited data poisoning, supply-chain tampering, and hardware compromises as current vulnerabilities, and argued for governance and validation frameworks, plus tools that enhance trust and identity verification. He warned quantum computing could reshape future threats.

Tech Transparency Project flags 102 nudify apps in Google Play and Apple App Store

January 28, 2026, 1:02 AM EST. An investigation by the Tech Transparency Project finds 55 nudify apps in Google Play and 47 in the Apple App Store, enabling users to remove clothes from women in generated images. The apps have been downloaded more than 705 million times and earned about $117 million, per AppMagic. Google and Apple take a cut of that revenue, raising questions about whether app-store policies keep pace with AI deepfakes. The firms say they review apps, but have removed some: Apple cited removal of 28 apps and warned others; Google suspended several during an ongoing review, then removed 31 apps. The findings deepen concerns over nonconsensual sexualized imagery and the misuse of AI tools. Regulators are watching.

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

January 28, 2026, 12:58 AM EST. Google said it will let users ask follow-up questions directly from AI Overviews, the AI-generated summaries atop search results, enabling a seamless transition into AI Mode for complex queries. The company also announced that Gemini 3 will be the default model for AI Overviews worldwide, aiming for a "best-in-class AI response" on the search results page. The update follows Google's push to make Search more interactive and conversational. Robby Stein, VP of Product for Google Search, said users want a flow from quick results to deeper exploration. Google has also introduced Personal Intelligence in AI Mode, linking across Gmail and Photos to tailor responses. AI Overviews now extend to Gmail, allowing natural-language inbox searches.

Xiaomi outsells Tesla Model 3 in China with SU7, first time since 2019

January 28, 2026, 12:56 AM EST. Xiaomi's first car, the SU7, outsold the Tesla Model 3 in China in 2025, the first time another brand topped the best-selling EV sedan since Tesla's 2019 entry. Xiaomi delivered 258,164 SU7s in 2025 compared with 200,361 Model 3s. Xiaomi undercut the Model 3 at the entry level by about 9%, while the SU7 offers a 700km CLTC range versus the Model 3's 606km. Xiaomi leveraged its existing ecosystem, with HyperOS software integration and driver-assistance features included by default, appealing to current Xiaomi customers. The company also matched rapid production ramp to meet demand, limiting traditional wait times. The result challenges the Model 3's dominance in China's EV market.

Tesla to deploy Semi Megachargers at Pilot truck stops along I-5 and I-10

January 28, 2026, 12:46 AM EST. Pilot, the nation's largest operator of travel centers and a Berkshire Hathaway unit, will host Tesla's Semi Megacharger stations at select Pilot sites along major corridors, starting Summer 2026. The chargers will sit at Pilot locations along I-5 and I-10 and other routes where heavy-duty charging is most needed, Pilot says. Shannon Sturgil, Pilot's SVP of alternative fuels, framed the deal as part of expanding energy options for guests and the North American freight sector, noting Pilot's turnkey approach. Tesla has been building out a heavy-duty network; the company has shown 1.2 MW charging demonstrations and plans for 46 Semi charging stations by 2027. The partnership broadens Pilot's alternative fuel portfolio, alongside previous EV projects with Volvo Group, GM, and EVgo.

Iran offline: How a government can shut down the internet

January 28, 2026, 12:40 AM EST. Iran is in a near-total internet blackout as authorities crack down on protests over inflation and the currency's devaluation. The regime has blocked most online access while protests persist; only about 3% of Iranians remain connected via satellite services such as Starlink, and using such services is criminalized. The episode explains how internet traffic is routed and how governments can disrupt it, from throttling to cutting access to servers. Scientists and researchers monitor the nation's connectivity from afar, tracking outages and data flows. The discussion also touches on what the shutdown means for information flow, news reporting, and the risks for ordinary citizens.

Pokémon Go Precious Pals Taken Over: quest steps, rewards and unlocks

January 28, 2026, 12:36 AM EST. Precious Pals: Taken Over is a Team Rocket quest line in Pokémon Go, running until local time March 3 at 9:59 a.m. You must finish any prior Team Rocket quests to unlock it. The form of the Shadow Giovanni is chosen when you complete the quest, so delaying could affect the encounter. The five-step sequence rewards XP, Stardust, and various Pokémon and items, including a Vulpix encounter and Shadow-related tasks. Step 2 asks for catching 20 Pokémon, purifying 5 Shadow Pokémon, and defeating 6 Grunts. Step 3 requires defeating Arlo, Cliff, and Sierra. Step 4 offers a Vulpix encounter; Step 5 grants three Charged TMs and a Super Rocket Radar. Access requires completing A Troubling Situation and prior Rocket quests. Stock healing items for Grunt-hunting, as Rocket lineups shift.

NASA lines up Wet Dress Rehearsal for SLS ahead of Artemis II

January 28, 2026, 12:30 AM EST. NASA is lining up a Wet Dress Rehearsal (WDR) for the Space Launch System (SLS) ahead of Artemis II, according to NASASpaceFlight. A WDR is a non-launch test that simulates a countdown to confirm fueling and ground-support systems function correctly. During the exercise, technicians load propellants, run through gantry operations, verify telemetry, and demonstrate the launch team's readiness without lifting off. Officials say completion would clear the way for the crewed mission, but an unsuccessful WDR could prompt fixes or schedule adjustments. The test highlights ongoing risk reduction as NASA pushes toward a return to the Moon.

Leaked Android 17 screenshots show transparency, floating screen-record controls and icon redesign

January 28, 2026, 12:28 AM EST. Leaked Android 17 screenshots outline visual changes and new tools. The UI adopts more transparency, extending it from Quick Settings to the small volume slider and the power-off menu. Google reportedly reworks the screen recording tool, adding a floating window for settings while the recording timer stays in the status bar. A long press on an app icon may enable a per-app lock on Android 17, and some app icons appear redesigned. Details are limited, but early chatter suggests further gaming and usability improvements. The report comes from 9to5Google via Android Authority, citing internal builds and leaked screenshots.

How to spot AI-generated videos: hands, blinking, and warped backgrounds

January 28, 2026, 12:22 AM EST. AI-generated videos are everywhere, prompting questions about what's real. The piece notes viewers unsure after a FOX Chicago TikTok about a cold snap. Experts point to hands as a telltale: extra digits, odd bends, or flickering digits. eyes and lip-sync gaps reveal anomalies when speech doesn't match mouth movements. Blinking can be too frequent or mechanical. In close-ups, backgrounds warp; frames bend and objects blur for no reason. Digital literacy communities act as early warning systems when posts blur lines between fact and fiction. Why it happens: cheap tools, speed, and platforms rewarding engagement over accuracy. Guardrails exist but are inconsistent; responsibility still falls on viewers. Federal action is emerging with the TAKE IT DOWN Act signed in May 2025.

Survey: 90% of faculty say AI weakens student learning, prompting governance moves in higher education

January 28, 2026, 12:20 AM EST. Nearly 90% of faculty say AI is weakening critical thinking, according to a January 2026 survey of 1,057 faculty members by the American Association of Colleges and Universities and Elon University. A Brookings Global Task Force report based on an eighteen-month premortem study across 50 countries finds risks from generative AI to children's learning and development outweigh its benefits. Taken with other findings, the results suggest learning degradation when AI is scaled without shared norms, evaluation, or governance. While 90% of students already use AI for coursework, only 40% of institutions had AI-use policies by 2025. Public AI evaluation frameworks across 32 states and Puerto Rico remain nascent, relying on perception rather than measurable learning outcomes. Yet institutions that link AI to clear objectives and governance show fewer harms.

Northrop Grumman boosters prep Artemis II for first crewed SLS flight

January 28, 2026, 12:18 AM EST. Northrop Grumman's five-segment solid rocket boosters will power NASA's Artemis II crewed flight, targeting a February 2026 launch from Pad 39B, Kennedy Space Center. The 177-foot boosters generate about 3.6 million pounds of thrust each and, from the shuttle-era design, will fly as a matched pair. They supplied more than 75% of Artemis I's total thrust and will again drive the SLS rocket on its first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit. Northrop Grumman also provides the Launch Abort System's attitude control motor and abort motor, keeping Orion safe should an anomaly occur during ascent. Artemis II will carry a four-person crew for roughly 10 days around the Moon, validating systems before future lunar and Mars missions. The company is also building HALO for Gateway and developing a next-gen booster.

Microsoft Could Be Quantum's Biggest Beneficiary as Enterprise Customers Lead Adoption

January 28, 2026, 12:16 AM EST. Quantum computing promises to accelerate AI by solving problems in minutes. Yet the biggest beneficiary may be the platform that already touches large customers: Microsoft. Industry forecasts from Precedence Research see an average annual growth above 30% to 2034, with potential value approaching $2 trillion for users, according to Bank of America. Microsoft is building a moat via its cloud relationships and enterprise footprint, even as its flagship chip, Majorana 1, remains unproven in public demos. Competing chips from Alphabet Willow and IBM generate revenue, but monetization is not yet decisive. The case for Microsoft rests on customer ties and readiness to monetize when quantum becomes commercially viable. NASA is cited as an example of early collaboration aligned with existing platforms.

Tesla Q4 2025 earnings: five key items investors will watch

January 28, 2026, 12:14 AM EST. Tesla is set to report Q4 2025 results after the bell on Jan. 28. Analysts expect about $24.9 billion in revenue and an adjusted EPS around $0.44. Investors will weigh whether margins held up as deliveries cooled from late 2024 highs. The company has already warned of a BEV market shift, as BYD topped Tesla in BEV sales in 2025 (BYD 2.26 million vs Tesla 1.64 million). On the product side, Tesla has moved to a FSD subscription and is ending its traditional Autopilot program, a change that has drawn safety-related scrutiny. Separately, Tesla is testing a no-humans-on-board driverless Robotaxi in Austin, underscoring bets on autonomous services. The company reported Q4 production of 434,358 and deliveries of 418,227, short of some Wall Street estimates.

Nova Launcher returns under Instabridge with ad-supported plan, but updates trigger crashes and missing icons

January 28, 2026, 12:10 AM EST. Nova Launcher, a popular Android launcher, has resurfaced under Instabridge after Branch Metrics sold it. Updates since November introduced an ad-supported free tier and, users say, bugs. The latest beta and stable build, 8.2.8, began rolling out in late January. Reddit reports describe crashes during initial setup and icons vanishing after unlocking or switching apps. Workarounds-reinstalling, disabling auto-update, or sideloading an older APK-haven't helped everyone. The problems span multiple devices, including Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, and OnePlus models. Instabridge says Nova Prime remains ad-free for paid users, but fans worry about the ownership change triggering more issues. Verification from independent users is ongoing.

I let ChatGPT analyze a decade of Apple Watch data, then I called my doctor

January 28, 2026, 12:08 AM EST. ChatGPT Health, and rival Claude for Healthcare, promise to detect patterns across fitness data and medical records. The Washington Post review joined a brief wait list, granting access to about 29 million steps and 6 million heart-rate measurements from Apple Health. ChatGPT Health graded the user's cardiac health as an F, prompting a run. A physician called the result baseless and said the user is at very low risk for a heart attack. Cardiologist Eric Topol of Scripps Research called the analysis unreliable and not ready for medical advice. Claude produced a C grade using similar data. Both firms say their tools are in early testing and carry disclaimers; Apple says it did not work directly with them. The piece flags concerns over data use and safety in consumer health AI.

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AirTag 2 arrives with longer-range Precision Finding, louder speaker and new privacy protections

January 28, 2026, 12:00 AM EST. Apple on Friday unveiled the AirTag 2, five years after the original, with a series of feature upgrades. The standout change is a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip that extends Precision Finding range to about 1.5x and adds Apple Watch compatibility for locating tags. A boosted Bluetooth chip widens the overall locating range, though Apple did not specify exact gains. The speaker is up to 50% louder, with sound audible from farther away, easing discovery of lost items. Apple also introduces new privacy protections designed to curb stalking, including cross-platform alerts and rotating Bluetooth identifiers. Core specs like battery life (more than a year), design and price remain the same, and existing accessories should work with the new model, including popular third-party cases and mounts such as the Elevation Lab TimeCapsule.