Technology

The latest Windows 11 Insider build introduces new shortcuts for Xbox gaming mode and search features. In Xbox mode, users can control settings such as Bluetooth, WiFi, and power without exiting the gaming environment. The search improvements allow for filtering results by file, action, or web result. Users can also perform actions like adjusting screen brightness or volume, and interact with connected devices, including making calls. Search results now provide more detailed information, such as file modification dates and authors, as well as charts for stock prices. These enhancements aim to streamline the user experience and improve productivity while gaming. The new features are part of the ongoing development of Windows 11, with the goal of refining the operating system's performance and functionality.

A new study published in Science reveals that Manx shearwaters, a species of seabird, experience jet lag when flying across multiple time zones over the North Atlantic. These birds, which navigate by the Sun, develop a measurable compass skew due to their internal body clocks being out of sync with their external environment. According to lead author Patrick Lewin, a behavioral and sensory ecologist at the University of Oxford, Manx shearwaters are medium-sized birds with long wings, closely related to albatross. They nest in burrows on coastal islands around the North Atlantic, with a significant population living in Wales. The study highlights the complex relationship between these birds' internal clocks and their external environment, demonstrating that jet lag is not exclusive to humans. The findings provide valuable insights into the behavioral and sensory ecology of these seabirds, shedding light on their remarkable navigational abilities.

In Installer No. 150, The Verge’s editor recounts a family trip to the Smoky Mountains, noting the short length of the post because of the vacation. He mentions reading about job hunting, the TV show 30 Rock, and crypto detectives, while testing the DuckDuckGo browser after reader suggestions. The article also covers watching a new Pixar short, catching up on VisionQuest, and playing with a Pebble Index device. The piece is framed as part of the Installer series, which guides readers through the latest and most interesting tech. The editor signs off with a Halloween greeting and a reminder that earlier editions are available on the Installer homepage.

Nissan has launched a new 2027 Rogue SUV that uses its e‑Power series‑hybrid system, a design that powers the vehicle solely from an electric motor while a small gasoline engine charges the battery. The 1.5‑liter, three‑cylinder turbocharged direct‑injection engine produces 148 hp (110 kW) and is limited to 5,200 rpm, allowing it to operate at a high 42 % thermal efficiency while charging the traction battery. Unlike most current hybrids that use a parallel configuration—where engine and motor both drive the wheels—the Rogue’s series hybrid architecture keeps the engine disconnected from the drivetrain, mirroring the approach used by the Chevrolet Volt and Honda CR‑V. The result is a vehicle that drives like an electric car but requires no plug‑in charging. Nissan supplied travel and lodging for reviewers, confirming the system’s performance in real‑world tests.

Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe emphasized the company's autonomous vehicle ambitions during an earnings call, despite the production ramp of the R2 SUV being a crucial aspect of the company's success. The company is set to roll out its point-to-point hands-free driving feature to employees for testing and validation in 2026, followed by customers in 2027. This marks a significant milestone for Rivian's autonomy gamble, which will determine the company's success or failure in the next two years. Rivian has partnered with Uber to launch its first robotaxi vehicles in 2028, further solidifying the importance of this test. The company's ability to deliver on its autonomous vehicle promises will be closely watched, particularly as it faces increased competition in the market. Rivian's founder and CEO RJ Scaringe has been vocal about the company's commitment to autonomy, but the company's success in this area remains to be seen.

In its latest earnings call, DoorDash CEO Tony Xu said that AI agents have placed only a few hundred orders on the platform, a minuscule fraction of the nearly 1 billion orders the company processed in Q3 2026. Xu described the figure as a “very low use case” and noted that most customers still place food orders directly through the DoorDash app. He added that AI agents could be more useful for “long‑consideration purchases” and major decisions where the agent works proactively in the background. The comment underscores that, despite the rapid spread of large‑language‑model agents across digital services, their impact on everyday, low‑effort transactions remains limited. DoorDash’s data suggest that the company’s current focus will stay on improving the core ordering experience rather than expanding AI‑driven ordering channels.

In the latest episode of the Electrek Podcast, the hosts unpack three headline‑making stories from the sustainable transport sector. First, they review Rivian’s most recent earnings report, noting the company’s financial performance and its implications for the electric‑vehicle market. Next, they discuss Waymo’s new partnership with Toyota, a collaboration that could accelerate the deployment of autonomous driving technology. Finally, the conversation turns to Ford’s strategy for its upcoming Fathom electric pickup truck, where the automaker is betting on vehicle‑to‑home (V2H) technology to enable the truck to power homes during outages or peak demand. The episode offers listeners a concise snapshot of how major players are aligning their product roadmaps with broader energy‑efficiency trends.

During a Cheeky Pint podcast interview, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman warned that the current trend of equipping personal computers with large amounts of RAM is a mistake. He described the practice as "terrible" from a global allocation perspective, arguing that the ongoing RAM shortage makes it inefficient to spread memory across thousands of individual machines. Altman noted that many users assume local inference will become trivial once open‑source models are widely available, but he cautioned that this assumption overlooks the need for centralized resources. By highlighting the strain on supply chains, Altman suggests that the industry should prioritize data‑center‑based memory solutions to better manage global demand and avoid further shortages.

OpenAI, Google, Microsoft and Anthropic announced they will adopt a new IETF‑backed standard that lets publishers opt out of AI scraping. The mechanism, a “policy token” inserted into a site’s robots.txt file, signals to all major AI systems that the content should not be used for training. Kevin Kelley, Anthropic’s standards lead, developed the token as part of the Internet Engineering Task Force. By placing a single token, site owners can set their AI‑training preferences once and have it respected by every participating company, rather than configuring each crawler separately. The move follows earlier reports that publishers have struggled to control how their content is harvested for machine‑learning models.

Apple is currently in a period of gadget experimentation, marked by the introduction of new features and designs in its products. The iPhone now has multiple screens, the MacBook has a touchscreen, and the HomeView supports CarPlay apps. This shift away from traditional product lines is a departure from Apple's usual approach, where innovation is often incremental. The company's willingness to try new things has sparked debate among tech enthusiasts, with some questioning the practicality of certain features. On the latest episode of The Vergecast, hosts David and Nilay discussed the merits of touchscreen laptops, with Nilay expressing enthusiasm for the new MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR Display. The experimental nature of Apple's current product lineup is a departure from the company's usual focus on refinement and polish.

Cloudflare has moved its private‑origin feature from closed beta to general availability. The service lets customers point a proxied A or AAAA DNS record at a private IP and have Cloudflare route traffic over the customer’s existing Cloudflare One connection. The origin remains private, yet Cloudflare’s Web Application Firewall, caching, bot management, rate limiting, rewrite rules, and Workers run exactly as they do for public sites. The rollout removes the need for a public IP, firewall exception, or connector software on the origin. Customers must enable the Private Origins entitlement and configure a return route for Cloudflare’s source ranges. The announcement also previews a future beta in early 2027 that will extend these controls to private‑to‑private traffic between clouds and data centers.

Arrowmax has developed an electric screwdriver that uses a camera and artificial intelligence to determine the correct bit size and type. This eliminates the need for trial and error, reducing the risk of stripped screws and subsequent repairs. The Arrowspace S1 is available for preorder through a Kickstarter campaign, with a price of around $79 for the screwdriver alone. Arrowmax has a history of successful crowdfunding, having previously funded other products. The company aims to make tools smarter and more convenient for users. The Arrowspace S1 features a camera and AI-powered system that works together to identify the correct bit for the task at hand. This innovation has the potential to simplify DIY projects and improve overall user experience.

Waymo has announced that the Toyota bZ4X will become its next robotaxi, with a custom version built on the same assembly line as the regular SUV in Japan. The partnership, signed last year, will see a test fleet of driverless crossovers begin operating in Tokyo in 2027. This marks the first vehicle to emerge from the collaboration and gives Waymo a domestically produced car for its Japanese launch, with plans to extend the service to the UK and other markets thereafter. Toyota will integrate Waymo’s Driver software directly into the bZ4X, creating a seamless, factory‑installed autonomous system. The move allows Waymo to avoid import logistics, reduce deployment costs, and accelerate its global robotaxi rollout by leveraging a local production base.

As the temperature drops, Google’s fourth‑generation Nest Learning Thermostat is now available for $219.99—$60 off its regular price—through Amazon, Best Buy and Home Depot. The device builds on the company’s flagship smart thermostat by adding a remote temperature sensor, an adaptive display that reveals weather and indoor air quality, and Matter compatibility that expands HVAC and ventilation options. It learns users’ heating and cooling habits, automatically creates schedules, and can suggest energy‑saving adjustments while keeping comfort. The thermostat also operates without a C‑wire in most homes, reducing installation complexity. The discount arrives just in time for sweater weather, offering homeowners a cost‑effective way to lower energy bills while maintaining climate control.

Pope Leo XIV, in a Friday address, urged United Nations member states to take concrete steps toward banning lethal autonomous weapons at their upcoming meeting in Geneva. He called for the disarmament of AI systems, emphasizing that machines are tools, not persons, and that humans bear responsibility to guide, change, and, when necessary, reject their applications. The call echoes themes from his first major papal document released in May, which highlighted safeguarding the human person in the age of artificial intelligence. By framing AI as a tool rather than a sentient entity, the Pope underscores the ethical imperative to prevent autonomous weapons from operating without human oversight. His remarks add a moral dimension to ongoing international discussions on AI governance and weapons control.

Apple’s $299 HomeView and Amazon’s $499.99 Echo Show 16 arrive as a ground‑up rebuild of the smart‑display line, addressing the shortcomings that plagued the category for years. Three years ago, the market was dominated by underpowered gadgets that tried to do too much and did too little well. The new devices check nearly every box on the list of improvements that critics and consumers had demanded. With a full‑size touchscreen, improved processing power, and a more robust ecosystem, they promise to function as true family computers, offering a single hub for media, communication, and smart‑home control. Early hands‑on impressions suggest that the HomeView and Echo Show 16 deliver on performance, usability, and design, potentially redefining what a smart display can be.

A heated debate in Maine has highlighted concerns over the rapid expansion of resource-hungry data centers. During a recent Senate debate, an audience member shouted that AI data centers are destroying the climate and poisoning water. The outburst was dismissed by Republican Sen. Susan Collins, who tied the comment to her Democratic challenger, Troy Jackson. However, the issue has gained traction in the state, with data centers becoming a volatile campaign issue ahead of the midterms. Maine drew national attention in April when the state Legislature passed a bill to regulate data centers, but the move has been met with resistance from industry groups. The expansion of data centers has sparked fears about the environmental impact and the strain on local resources. Collins and Jackson have differing views on how to address the issue, with Collins supporting the industry and Jackson advocating for stricter regulations. The outcome of the Senate election will have significant implications for the future of data centers in Maine.

Rivian’s new e‑bike, the ALSO TM‑B, eliminates the traditional mechanical link between pedals and rear wheel, relying instead on copper wires to transmit power. In a recent test, a rider drained the bike’s battery to zero, triggering a series of odd responses that the manufacturer has not yet fully explained. The article notes that the TM‑B’s design, while technologically impressive, raises a practical question: what happens when the battery dies? The report documents the rider’s experience and highlights the lack of a mechanical fallback, suggesting that the bike’s performance may become unpredictable without power. Rivian’s approach could set a new standard for e‑bike design, but the incident underscores the need for reliable safety protocols when the electrical system fails.

The Wikimedia Foundation has filed an amicus brief in a landmark AI copyright case, urging courts to strike a balance between protecting large language models and preventing chatbots from regurgitating copyrighted work. The nonprofit, which operates Wikipedia, is concerned that an overly black-and-white ruling could either deprive Wikipedians of useful AI-based tools or endanger the open web. In its brief, Wikimedia Foundation takes neither side in the lawsuit, which pits publishers including The New York Times against OpenAI and Microsoft. The foundation is pushing for a middle ground, where large language models training on copyrighted work are legally protected, but chatbots that simply regurgitate that work to users are not. This approach aims to preserve the benefits of AI-based tools while preventing the exploitation of copyrighted material. The case is a significant test of the intersection of AI and copyright law, with implications for the future of online content and the open web.

Harley-Davidson's electric motorcycle brand LiveWire has issued a warning about its financial future, citing substantial doubt about its ability to continue operating. The news led to a significant drop in LiveWire's stock, with a 40% plunge on Thursday morning. The company has withdrawn its full-year financial guidance, sparking concerns about its viability. LiveWire's decision to withdraw guidance suggests a lack of confidence in its ability to meet financial expectations. The company's financial struggles come as the electric motorcycle market continues to evolve, with increasing competition from established players and new entrants. LiveWire's future is uncertain, with the company's ability to continue operating as a going concern in doubt.

A massive leak of Department of Homeland Security records has exposed details of over 41,000 employees or contractors, including email addresses, phone numbers, and office addresses. The leak also references internal systems and sensitive information on undercover and surveillance programs. The records, spanning DHS and seven component agencies, were last updated on August 19, 2026. The leak was obtained by Distributed Denial of Secrets and cybersecurity researcher maia arson crimew, who published the archive, called 'Icepick,' on Wednesday. The hackers claim the data is from DHS's Okta login system, stating, 'They have our information, so it's only fair that we have theirs.'

Ford is advocating for utilities to help reduce the cost of bidirectional electric vehicle charging. The company's new electric pickup truck, the Fathom, features a built-in inverter for this purpose. Ford believes that utilities can play a crucial role in making bidirectional EV charging more affordable for everyone. The move is aimed at increasing the adoption of electric vehicles and promoting a more sustainable transportation system. However, the exact details of how utilities can help are still unclear. Ford is likely counting on the utilities to help offset the costs associated with the built-in inverter, which is a key component of bidirectional EV charging. This could potentially make the technology more accessible to a wider range of consumers.

Reddit will no longer allow anonymous browsing. CEO Steve Huffman announced the change in a shareholder letter, stating the platform will become a logged‑in‑only experience. The move aims to improve user experience by tailoring content and communities to logged‑in members. It also gives Reddit more data signals for ad targeting, which should boost revenue. Logged‑in users tend to engage more, helping the company retain new members. The policy will protect Reddit’s extensive data corpus and help the company adapt to evolving global regulations. The change will take effect in the coming months, and Reddit will likely roll out new login prompts across all devices.

Intel's Wildcat Lake chips, designed for affordable laptops, have seen significant demand, according to the company's latest earnings call. CEO Lip-Bu Tan stated that demand for these budget-focused chips is outstripping supply, with CFO David Zinsner confirming that the chips are now sold out. This surge in demand comes as shortages of RAM and other components have driven up PC prices in recent months. As a result, Intel's Wildcat Lake chips have been appearing in new lower-cost Windows laptops, competing with the MacBook Neo in terms of price and performance. Laptops featuring these chips, such as the Dell XPS 13 and the HP Omnibook 5 14, are now available in the market. Intel's Wildcat Lake chips are cost-optimized, making them an attractive option for consumers looking for affordable PCs.

Curry Barker, the director behind the hit horror film Obsession, has just released a new short horror film titled “Mama Bear” on YouTube. The five‑minute clip, which Barker wrote, directed and edited, is described as unnerving and slightly graphic, offering a quick scare for viewers ahead of the upcoming Halloween weekend. It appears on his “that’s a bad idea” channel, where the description thanks Windows for sponsoring the short. Barker was also featured in an Instagram video earlier this week, promoting the release. The short’s brief runtime and straightforward production make it an accessible addition to the horror community’s seasonal content. Fans of Barker’s work can now stream the new piece directly on YouTube without a subscription or purchase.

President Donald Trump has issued a presidential proclamation declaring foreign-made factory robot imports a national security threat. This heightened scrutiny may complicate manufacturing operations for major US corporations, including General Motors, Ford, Tesla, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin. The proclamation cites an investigation by US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, which found that US imports of industrial robots pose risks to the US industrial base and threaten the country's long-term competitiveness in a sector vital to national security. Trump has ordered new US negotiations with trading partners and has left the possibility of imposing new tariffs on robot imports open for the future.

On October 15, five Democratic and four Republican senators sent a letter to the Department of Defense Inspector General Platte Moring asking for an investigation into restrictions that had temporarily cut Ukraine’s military use of SpaceX’s Starlink and Starshield satellite networks. Ukraine reported that its drones lost satellite connectivity when flying faster than 161 km/h (100 mph). The speed limit was lifted after roughly ten days. The inspector general’s office declined the senators’ request, stating it would not pursue a probe into the restrictions. The letter also asked whether the limitations were authorized by SpaceX, the Department of Defense, or other U.S. government entities, and whether they complied with existing contracts. No further action has been announced, leaving the matter unresolved.

Google has expanded its Gemini app to allow users to generate, preview, and edit various file types directly within the chat platform. Starting today, all Gemini users can edit PDFs, Google Docs, Google Sheets, slide decks, Markdown files, TXT files, and code. While PDF editing is available on both web and mobile, other file formats are currently only accessible on the web version. This update builds on earlier support for generating and downloading files in Gemini, enabling users to make changes without leaving the app. Users can also expand documents for full-screen editing and highlight text to ask Gemini questions or prompts.

Microsoft is offering voluntary buyouts to around 60,000 employees across the US, UK, Canada, and India. This move is part of the company's effort to avoid reducing investment in AI infrastructure by lowering operating costs. The buyouts are an expansion of a previous retirement offer that was limited to around 9,000 employees earlier this year. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has been emphasizing the impact of AI on the company's workforce in recent years. The buyouts are a clear sign that AI is changing the size of Microsoft's workforce, but the company has not specified how many jobs will be affected. The move is part of Microsoft's ongoing effort to adapt to the changing landscape of technology and AI.

The New York Times has launched a beta AI feature in its Cooking app that lets users tweak recipes on the fly. Senior editor Genevieve Ko announced the tool last Friday, noting it can suggest ingredient or equipment substitutions, scale portions to any number of servings, and adjust cooking steps to fit a cook’s immediate needs. In a demo, the app advised a user who wanted to replace kale with baby spinach that the spinach wilts faster, so it should be added later in the recipe. The feature has already sparked debate among users, some praising the convenience while others question the accuracy of the AI’s recommendations. The NYT is monitoring feedback as it refines the system.

BYD’s Q3 2026 earnings report shows a 28% year‑over‑year rise in net profit to ¥10.02 billion, driven by the shipment of more than half a million vehicles abroad during the quarter. The company’s export activity has boosted cash flow, but its inventory has risen 60% since January, indicating a buildup of unsold stock. Meanwhile, BYD’s cash reserves have fallen by nearly half, and the first nine months of the year still show a profit decline. The automaker remains highly active, yet the contrasting trends in profitability, inventory, and liquidity suggest a shift in its business dynamics as it expands overseas.

Amazon has broadened the scope of its Alexa for Shopping AI assistant, adding the ability to create, edit, and move items between shopping lists and gift registries. Users can now say, “Create a new shopping list” or “Show me what’s left on my wedding registry,” and the assistant will perform the requested action directly within the Amazon app or website. The feature sits beside the search bar and builds on earlier functions such as price alerts, item comparison, and auto‑completion. Launched in May, Alexa for Shopping has steadily grown, while Amazon has declined to allow competing AI shopping agents from Meta and Perplexity to operate on its platform. The update signals Amazon’s intent to keep the shopping experience tightly integrated with its own AI ecosystem.

Democrats have introduced the 21st Century Vehicle Choice Act (H.R. 10881), a bill that would restore and double the federal electric‑vehicle tax credit. Rep. Greg Landsman (D‑OH) proposes a $15,000 credit for new EVs and an $8,000 credit for used ones, and would make both credits permanent. The proposal comes after the previous draft failed to meet congressional criteria. Analysts say the bill faces a near‑certain defeat, with little chance of passage in the current session. If consumers wait for the new credit, the delay could stall EV sales and hurt the market the legislation intends to support. The bill’s failure underscores the uncertainty surrounding federal incentives for electric vehicles.

Dutch startup Elysian Aircraft is working on an all-electric commercial airliner, the E9X, which promises quieter flights and reduced dependence on oil. According to the company, their new aircraft could be closer to reality than expected. Elysian's vision for the future of flight is one where electric power replaces traditional fossil fuels, reducing the environmental impact of air travel. The E9X is designed to be a commercial airliner, capable of carrying passengers on long-haul flights. While details about the aircraft's specifications and timeline are scarce, Elysian's ambition is clear: to make electric flight a reality. The company's focus on electric power is a response to the growing concerns about the environmental impact of air travel. As the world looks for more sustainable alternatives, Elysian's work could be a significant step forward. The company's efforts to develop an all-electric commercial airliner are worth watching, as they could have a major impact on the aviation industry.

A Florida county has decided not to investigate the owners of a group of unpermitted Flock cameras that were removed by mystery owners. The cameras, which were discovered during a countywide takedown effort, have since disappeared. Residents in St. Lucie County remain concerned about the data collected by the cameras, with one resident expressing worry that the data could be anywhere. The county had initially found 12 cameras, with five eventually claimed by city law enforcement. However, the police departments that claimed the cameras have refused to confirm who issued guidance allowing multiple cameras to be posted under a single permit. The county has chosen not to pursue an investigation into the matter.

Two critical bugs in PHP, the open-source language behind approximately 70% of websites, have left organizations scrambling to fix their systems. The vulnerabilities, discovered by researchers, have prompted some to take sites offline until patches can be applied. The PHP scare, which may have faded from public attention, is far from over as the cleanup continues. Wiz's CTO has warned of a potential 'vulnpocalypse' as the full extent of the vulnerabilities becomes clear. The impact of the bugs is still being assessed, but experts are urging caution and swift action to mitigate the risks. The PHP community is working to address the issues, with patches and updates being released to affected systems. However, the pace of the cleanup is uncertain, and the risk of exploitation remains high. As the situation unfolds, organizations are advised to prioritize patching and updating their PHP systems to minimize the risk of a potential 'vulnpocalypse'.

Readwise, known for its highlight‑management tools, has introduced Readwise Books, a beta platform that lets users buy, read, and discuss books in one place. The service builds on the company’s existing products: the core Readwise app that stores and categorizes Kindle highlights, and Readwise Reader, which aggregates newsletters, PDFs, and web articles. Readwise Books is currently available only through invitation or to existing Readwise subscribers, and early testers report it offers a more expansive reading experience than typical e‑book services. By combining purchasing, reading, and community discussion, Readwise Books seeks to compete directly with established e‑book ecosystems such as Amazon Kindle and Kobo, potentially reshaping how power readers acquire and engage with new titles.

Polestar has announced the end of production for its flagship model, the Polestar 2. This decision marks a significant shift in the brand's focus, as it pulls out of the US market and redirects its attention to the rest of the world. The Polestar 2 played a crucial role in establishing Polestar as a standalone brand, and its impact will be remembered in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape. The Polestar 2 was a key player in defining the brand's identity, and its legacy will continue to influence the EV market. As Polestar looks to the future, it's likely that the brand will focus on developing new models that cater to the growing demand for sustainable transportation. The end of Polestar 2 production signals a new chapter for the brand, and it will be interesting to see how it evolves in the coming years. With the EV market continuing to grow, Polestar is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and establish itself as a major player in the industry.

A hacker known as "Department of Peace" accessed the Department of Homeland Security’s Okta identity‑management system and exfiltrated more than 41,000 employee records. The stolen data include names, job titles, phone numbers, email addresses, and office locations for personnel across the agency, with about 21,000 records belonging to Customs and Border Protection staff and additional data from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The breach also revealed links between DHS agencies and specific surveillance tools. The incident was reported by The Verge, citing TechCrunch and Wired for details on the scope and the method of compromise. DHS officials have not yet released a full statement on the breach, but the theft underscores the vulnerability of federal identity‑management platforms to targeted attacks.

Microsoft released its first quarter of the 2027 fiscal year, reporting $92.3 billion in revenue and $33.6 billion in net income. Revenue rose 19 percent and net income climbed 32 percent from the same period a year earlier. The company also announced a new financial reporting structure, moving from three segments—Productivity and Business Processes, Intelligent Cloud, and More Personal Computing—to just two: Agents and Infra, and Devices and Consumer. The Agents and Infra segment now groups key cloud businesses such as Azure and other enterprise services. The Devices and Consumer segment covers hardware and consumer‑facing products. This reorganization reflects Microsoft’s focus on its cloud and device ecosystems and provides a clearer view of its core revenue streams.

Alphabet, Google's parent company, reported a 25% year-over-year revenue increase in Q3 2026, with Google Search & other revenues up 12%. CEO Sundar Pichai attributed this growth to AI investments, stating they are driving overall Search query growth, including commercial queries. This growth rate is the highest in the last five years, with year-over-year query growth rate surpassing previous records. Google Cloud revenue also saw a significant increase, rising 103% year-over-year to $30.7 billion. The company's AI investments have led to a substantial boost in searches, with commercial queries also experiencing growth. Alphabet's consolidated revenues for the quarter reached $127.6 billion, a notable increase from previous years. Google's AI-driven growth is a key factor in the company's success, with AI investments continuing to drive innovation and revenue growth.

Apple unveiled a new iPad Mini featuring a larger OLED display and an optional nano-texture matte finish that eliminates glare under soft lighting. The front‑facing camera has been relocated to the long edge, aligning the Mini with the rest of the iPad line. Instead of Face ID, the device relies on Touch ID for authentication, a shift that may alter user habits. The matte finish also improves usability in bright environments, while the larger screen offers sharper visuals for media and productivity. These design choices signal Apple’s focus on premium build quality and user comfort. The changes are expected to influence how consumers use the Mini for work and entertainment, and may set a new standard for future iPad models.

Tesla has officially announced its entry into Vietnam, starting a recruitment drive that includes roles for a sales manager, a service manager, and a charging project developer. The move comes as VinFast dominates the local electric‑vehicle market, capturing about 36 % of all new car sales this year—more than the combined share of the next five competitors. Tesla’s hiring signals the company’s intent to establish a presence in a market that is both lucrative and fiercely competitive. By building a local workforce, Tesla plans to develop sales, service, and charging infrastructure, positioning itself to compete directly with VinFast’s extensive network.

Google and its partner Xreal announced that the Aura AR glasses will be available for $1,099 through the end of the year, a reduction from the $1,279 price that Xreal had set for early pre‑orders last month. The lightweight 95‑gram headset pairs with a tethered Android XR compute puck and supports multiple virtual screens. The Aura offers one of the widest fields of view among transparent AR glasses, positioning it as a direct competitor to Meta’s upcoming VR glasses. The price cut appears aimed at making the Aura more attractive in a market where Meta’s product is a strong benchmark. Consumers can now purchase the Aura at a lower entry price as the company prepares for its public launch.

Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes is reportedly reviving her company, dubbed Theranos 2.0, with a new team and a renewed focus on health technology. However, the move has sparked concerns given the company's troubled past. The Theranos device, which was at the center of the original company's claims, never worked as advertised, according to documented evidence. Journalists and whistleblowers have pointed out numerous lies told by Holmes, including the device's failure to deliver on its promises. The reboot has raised questions about whether Holmes has learned from her past mistakes and whether the new team will be able to overcome the company's legacy of deceit.

8BitDo has released the Ultimate 3E, a $150 controller designed for Xbox and PC that pushes the envelope of customization. The unit features drift‑proof TMR joysticks, extra shoulder buttons, rear paddles, motion‑control support, and modular buttons and joysticks. Its refined design competes directly with Microsoft’s pricier Xbox Elite Series 2 and the company’s own $60 Ultimate 2, offering a broader feature set at a mid‑tier price point. While the controller’s sleek construction shows wear easily, its array of programmable inputs and high‑quality components positions it as a serious contender for gamers seeking deeper control without the Elite Series’ premium cost. The Ultimate 3E’s launch expands the options available to players who want a highly customizable experience without breaking the bank.

The TechCrunch Founder Summit will take place at Boston’s SoWa Power Station on November 4. With only a week remaining, ticket purchasers can still secure discounts of up to $100 before the event opens. The summit is designed to bring together seasoned founders, investors, and startup leaders for a concentrated period of learning and networking. Attendees will have the chance to hear firsthand from industry veterans, discuss emerging trends, and explore potential collaborations. The discount period ends on the day of the summit, so early action is required to benefit from the reduced rates. Organizers emphasize that the event offers a unique platform for entrepreneurs to connect directly with key decision‑makers and gain insights that could shape their growth strategies. The venue’s industrial setting provides a dynamic backdrop for the exchange of ideas and the forging of new partnerships.

A British company is set to debut a new retro electric motorcycle at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan. The motorcycle features a two-speed transmission designed to shift gears without interrupting power delivery, a departure from the typical single-speed transmission found in most electric motorcycles. The company's innovative design aims to enhance the riding experience. The exact specifications and details of the motorcycle are yet to be revealed. The unveiling is scheduled to take place at the EICMA show, where industry professionals and enthusiasts will get their first glimpse of the new electric motorcycle. The company's decision to introduce a two-speed transmission is a notable move in the electric motorcycle market, where single-speed transmissions have been the norm.

Elon Musk’s recent warning that advertisers using “ugly, shrill, strident” ads would be barred from X’s platform has coincided with a new, eye‑catching interface feature. While composing a post, a bright animated arm appears on the screen, reaching across to point directly at the “promote” button. The effect is designed to draw attention to paid promotion options. According to The Verge, the arm is visible only to verified users and those subscribed to X Premium, and it has not appeared for all users. The feature has already sparked criticism on social media, with many users sharing screenshots of the unsettling animation. X has not yet issued a statement explaining the rollout or its intended impact.

A new report warns that US companies like Google and Meta face significant risks from deep-sea sabotage in the Pacific Ocean. Chinese research ships have been surveying undersea cables, and commercial ships have been investigated for cutting cables in European and Asian waters. While most damage is caused by accidents, analysts suspect China and Russia of engaging in cable sabotage as "gray zone" tactics. A research report by the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission highlights the growing concern. The report, published in September 2026, was contracted to the London-based think tank China Strategic Risks Institute. The increased scrutiny on cable-cutting damage has placed new attention on the issue, with experts warning of the potential consequences for the global internet infrastructure.

Elon Musk has declared Tesla's Robotaxi a winner in its driverless mileage competition against Waymo, citing a recent achievement in Austin, Texas. According to Musk, Tesla's driverless fleet logged 438,000 miles in a single week in Austin, surpassing Waymo's weekly average of 406,000 miles in the city. However, this success is limited to a single city and a short period, and when considering the entire US, Waymo still drives about seven times more driverless miles than Tesla every week. The figure for Waymo's weekly mileage is based on data from four months ago, which may not reflect the company's current performance.

Waymo, the pioneer in self-driving cars, continues to expand its robotaxi service in various locations. Despite facing intense competition from Tesla, Waymo remains committed to its growth strategy. According to recent reports, the company is pushing forward with its expansion plans, aiming to increase its presence in the market. This move is likely a response to the growing demand for autonomous transportation and the need to stay competitive in the industry. As a result, Waymo is expected to continue rolling out its robotaxi service in more areas, potentially leading to increased adoption and acceptance of self-driving cars. The expansion plans are a testament to Waymo's dedication to innovation and its goal of making autonomous transportation a reality.

Ford announced that its upcoming sub‑$30,000 electric pickup, the Fathom, will include a built‑in inverter that converts the truck’s DC power to AC for home use. The feature, which previously required a separate wallbox on the now‑discontinued F‑150 Lightning, allows every Fathom to act as a backup battery for a household. The truck, slated for release next year, will cost roughly $30,000—about $5,000 more than the competitor Blank Slate—but will offer additional conveniences such as an infotainment system, CarPlay, electric windows, and access to Ford’s dealership network. By integrating the inverter, Ford simplifies the vehicle‑to‑home setup and removes the need for an external inverter unit.

Ford has unveiled a new electric pickup truck, the Fathom, which features a groundbreaking bidirectional EV charging system. This innovative technology eliminates the need for an external inverter, significantly reducing the cost of the system. The Fathom's charging system allows for seamless energy exchange between the vehicle and the grid, opening up new possibilities for electric vehicle owners. While details about the truck itself remain scarce, the new charging system is a major step forward in the development of electric vehicles. By integrating the inverter into the vehicle, Ford has created a more efficient and cost-effective solution for bidirectional charging. This move is likely to have a significant impact on the electric vehicle market, making it more accessible and appealing to a wider range of consumers.

On Monday, the U. S. Securities and Exchange Commission released Anthropic’s S‑1 filing ahead of its highly anticipated initial public offering. The prospectus spans 93 pages and contains more than 70,000 words, with a dedicated Risk Factors section that enumerates hundreds of potential threats to the company’s future. While many of the risks are typical—competition, cost pressures, customer acquisition, regulatory uncertainty—Anthropic also lists more unusual concerns, such as the possibility that its AI could be used for blackmail, achieve sentience, or pose existential threats. The filing’s exhaustive risk disclosure reflects the company’s attempt to pre‑empt investor and regulator scrutiny as it seeks to raise capital in a market that is increasingly wary of AI‑related uncertainties. Investors will need to weigh these unique risks against Anthropic’s projected revenue growth and the broader AI industry’s regulatory trajectory.

A measles outbreak in South Carolina that began in October 2025 has spread to Washington state through five distinct importation events over two weeks in January. According to a study published in NEJM Evidence, these events led to 26 cases among residents in Washington state before officials were able to stamp out the spread. The South Carolina outbreak, which was declared over on April 26, 2026, resulted in 997 confirmed cases, making it the largest measles outbreak recorded since the virus was declared eliminated in the US in 2000. The study highlights the risk of domestic travel in spreading the virus, as vaccination rates have slipped nationwide in recent years. The outbreak in South Carolina was initially caused by international travelers, but domestic travel now poses a greater risk than international incursions. The outbreak in Pennsylvania has since surpassed the one in South Carolina as the largest recorded since the virus was declared eliminated.

Google has opened its Registered App Stores program to third‑party vendors outside the United States, allowing them to apply for certification that grants preferential treatment on Android devices. Certified stores will offer users a single‑click installation experience comparable to Google Play, and will be able to push background updates without user intervention. The move follows a court‑ordered requirement that U. S. users retain access to Google Play, while international users can now benefit from a streamlined alternative. Support for the new installation flow is slated to roll out on select Android devices later this year. The program aims to maintain ecosystem safety by vetting participating stores, giving users a broader, secure selection of apps.

Apple's second-generation AirTag is now available at its cheapest price ever, starting at $23 at Amazon and Walmart. This Bluetooth tracker uses Apple's ultra-wideband chip to enable Precision Finding, guiding users to an object's exact location with on-screen arrows, vibrations, and sounds. The device can also be shared with up to five other people and temporarily shared with participating airlines, such as United and Delta, to help track down lost luggage. Additionally, the AirTag runs on a replaceable CR2032 battery designed to last over a year, eliminating the need for frequent charging. With its improved performance and convenient features, the AirTag is the best Bluetooth tracker for iPhone users.

Apple has added an AI assistant to its core productivity apps—Pages, Keynote, and Numbers—using models from Apple and OpenAI. The assistant reads a document’s context and can design, animate, and refine Keynote slides; draft, restructure, and tweak Pages text; and calculate, visualize, and organize Numbers data, suggesting chart types and building custom tables. Starting with macOS 27, the apps support the Model Context Protocol, allowing third‑party AI agents to plug into the suite. Users no longer need separate plugins; the AI is built into the native apps, giving developers a unified platform to extend AI functionality across documents, presentations, and spreadsheets.

Elon Musk’s “flying” Roadster, which leapt and flipped in a compressed‑gas thruster stunt developed by SpaceX, went viral in early October. Five days later, Musk announced that Tesla and SpaceX are exploring a merger that could accelerate Tesla’s push into autonomous driving. The move signals a broader shift in the automotive sector, as car groups face rising Chinese competition and look to diversify beyond vehicle sales. They are increasingly targeting recurring revenue streams from software and AI‑powered services. Tesla’s potential merger would bring together SpaceX’s propulsion expertise and Tesla’s automotive platform, positioning the company to lead the next wave of autonomous technology and reshape its business model.

Audi has pulled back its original plan to launch a full line of electric vehicles in the United States, opting instead to emphasize plug‑in hybrids for the near term. The German automaker confirmed that its U. S. strategy will still involve a new manufacturing facility in Georgia, where it will produce hybrid models and potentially future electric vehicles. The decision reflects a recalibration of Audi’s North American approach amid evolving market dynamics and supply‑chain considerations. While the company remains committed to electrification, the shift means that fully electric Audi models will arrive later than initially projected, and the Georgia plant will serve as a key hub for the brand’s hybrid lineup. Audi’s move underscores the complexity of scaling electric production in the U. S. market and the importance of local manufacturing to meet consumer demand.

Anthropic has filed its S‑1 prospectus with the SEC, a more than 300‑page document that opens the company’s financial and operational plans to investors. The filing lists executive compensation, showing that co‑founders Dario and Daniela Amodei are the highest‑paid leaders. It also details how the firm intends to deploy the billions it expects to raise in its initial public offering, outlining budgets for research, development, and scaling. The prospectus highlights a range of risks that could affect the company’s growth trajectory, from regulatory scrutiny to competitive pressures in the AI sector. By making these disclosures public, Anthropic signals its readiness to raise capital and provides a roadmap for how it will use IPO proceeds to expand its technology and market presence.

Since June, thieves have stolen more than $100 million worth of data‑center freight by exploiting digital freight platforms. They hack freight‑broker accounts on shipment‑listing websites, post fake shipments, and lure legitimate bidders. When a trucking company clicks a malicious link, the attackers install software that takes control of the account and begins bidding on real shipments. In some cases, a real driver is hired unaware of the scam; in others, fake driver licenses are used to recruit accomplices. The stolen goods are then handed to a driver working with the thieves for resale. In one of the largest incidents, the thieves spoofed GPS coordinates to evade digital monitoring, allowing the cargo to move undetected. The attacks reveal a sophisticated blend of cyber‑fraud and physical theft that targets high‑value, high‑mobility cargo, exposing a critical vulnerability in the logistics chain for data‑center hardware.

Apple confirmed that a small number of iPhone Duo units suffer from an inner display defect, with reports of cracked screens and a bright line running from the center to the right side. In a statement to Bloomberg and 9to5Mac, Apple’s Alex Kirschner said the company is aware of the problem and urged affected users to contact AppleCare for a replacement. The company noted that early users have responded positively overall, and developers are rapidly updating apps to take advantage of the Duo’s unique features. Apple’s swift acknowledgment and replacement offer aim to mitigate user frustration and maintain confidence in the new device.

Tesla expanded its Robotaxi service area in Houston today, drawing the new geofence in a rocket‑shaped outline that echoes the city’s space heritage. The design has sparked commentary on X, with users noting a resemblance to a phallic shape that echoes Tesla’s 2025 Austin map. The expansion is largely symbolic, as Robotaxi Tracker reports only 34 driverless Model Ys operating within the new boundaries. The limited fleet size suggests the area is more a marketing gesture than a fully functional service zone. Nonetheless, the move signals Tesla’s continued push to broaden its autonomous ride‑share footprint, even if the practical reach remains modest.

RealReal announced an update to its bot‑defense system that will make it harder for AI agents to shop on the site. The change follows a Verge investigation that showed an AI agent could exploit the retailer’s item‑reserve system. When a user adds a listing to a cart, the item is held for 20 minutes, preventing other shoppers from buying it. The Verge demonstrated that by using Meta’s Muse platform, an AI could automatically re‑add the listing to a cart as soon as the hold expired, effectively blocking human buyers. RealReal’s new safeguards aim to close this loophole and reduce the ability of automated agents to monopolize limited‑edition luxury goods.

Elon Musk has accused Ukraine of violating the terms of service for its Starlink satellite internet service. Musk claims that Ukraine used the commercial Starlink service for lethal drone strikes. This accusation comes after SpaceX imposed a restriction on Ukraine's use of the technology, preventing it from being used on drones flying above certain speeds. Ukraine officials have denied Musk's accusation, stating that previous limits imposed by SpaceX already prevented the military from using Starlink in the described manner. The dispute centers around the use of Starshield, the military variant of Starlink, which Ukraine has access to through a deal with the US government. Ukraine officials have accused Musk of throttling their use of Starshield, while Musk's comments suggest that Ukraine is violating the terms of service for the commercial Starlink service.

Instagram has announced a new initiative called “Features,” a push into long‑form horizontal video that the platform will support in the coming months. The move follows a long‑standing hesitation from Instagram chief Adam Mosseri, who said he had resisted adding long‑form content because it could shift the site away from its core purpose of connecting friends. Mosseri explained that longer videos might reduce engagement with the platform’s traditional Reels, photos, and carousel posts, potentially lowering likes and shares. He was joined in the announcement by VP of product Tessa Lyons, who highlighted the technical and design work behind the new format. The change signals Instagram’s intent to compete more directly with YouTube and other video‑centric services.

Tesla is teaming up with car rental platform Turo to offer test drives of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology. Starting October 28, US renters will be able to search for Teslas with FSD (Supervised) enabled through a direct integration with Tesla. This partnership aims to put FSD in front of people who don't own a Tesla, potentially increasing subscriptions to the feature. Turo's integration with Tesla will verify the FSD status of each car, ensuring a seamless experience for renters. This collaboration marks a new way for Tesla to showcase its FSD technology and generate revenue through subscriptions. The move is likely to attract more users to Tesla's FSD feature, which is a key component of the company's business strategy.

Microsoft has announced voluntary buyout packages for up to 60,000 staff across the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and India. Chief people officer Amy Coleman explained that the program provides financial support and career‑planning resources to employees who choose to leave. The company is pursuing a workforce reduction without a new round of layoffs, targeting a broad range of departments—including AI experiences, Copilot, CoreAI, Windows + Devices, Xbox, finance, and human resources. Eligible employees can accept the offer at any time, after which Microsoft will formalize their exit and begin the transition. The move signals a shift toward a more structured, employee‑centric approach to downsizing, aiming to mitigate the disruption of traditional layoffs while still trimming headcount.

Volkswagen Group China has secured a permit to test Level 3 autonomous driving on public roads in Hefei, with testing already underway. The permit also allows for large-scale driving data collection in the city. This development marks a significant step towards Volkswagen's goal of achieving Level 3 technology readiness in China by 2027. The company's first China Technology Day in Hefei coincides with this announcement, underscoring its commitment to autonomous driving in the region. Volkswagen's efforts in Hefei will focus on refining its autonomous driving capabilities, with the ultimate goal of deploying this technology on a larger scale. The company's progress in this area will be closely watched as it seeks to establish itself as a leader in the field of autonomous driving.

iFixit opened Apple’s newest foldable iPhone, the Duo, and documented its internal construction. The review awarded the device a 5‑out‑of‑10 repairability score, the highest yet for a foldable phone. Inspecting the display, iFixit noted a matte nano‑texture layer that improves readability in bright light and scatters reflections to conceal the fold crease. Microscopic examination revealed oval‑shaped subpixels positioned at various angles, a design feature that may influence pixel performance. The teardown also highlighted the phone’s hinge mechanism and internal component layout, offering insight into how Apple balances durability with the demands of a folding form factor. These findings provide a clearer picture of the Duo’s build quality and the challenges of repairing a foldable device.

Reports of the iPhone Duo’s rapid, spectacular failures have swirled across social media and the device’s subreddit, with users noting that the screen cracks in the same spot after only a few hours of use. YouTuber CuriousHagi reproduced the cracked screen during durability testing and then disassembled the phone to locate the root cause. He found that the Duo’s hinge is unusually complex, combining a gear‑like central hinge with two distinct types of linking hinges. The intricate arrangement appears to concentrate stress at a single point, leading to the audible crack and screen break. The discovery clarifies why the failures occur in a predictable location and provides a concrete mechanical explanation for the widespread “crackgate” reports.

For the second consecutive year, the top-rated lawnmowers on Amazon are electric, signaling a shift away from gas-powered models. According to Amazon reviews, consumers are increasingly favoring quieter, more efficient electric mowers. The trend suggests a growing demand for eco-friendly and low-maintenance alternatives to traditional gas-powered equipment. Electric mowers have been gaining popularity in recent years, and this year's Amazon rankings reinforce their appeal to consumers. The shift may be attributed to advancements in electric technology and changing consumer preferences. As a result, manufacturers are likely to invest in electric mower development, potentially leading to further innovation and market growth.

The moderators of r/opensource have introduced new submission rules that ban projects using AI, projects made by AI, and projects intended for AI. The community's stance on AI is that it is 'incongruent' with the open-source ethos. The rules have sparked controversy, with some users creating a rival subreddit, r/trueopensource. Moderator Wolvereness has attempted to clarify the new guidelines, suggesting that there may be exceptions for software with accessibility features that incidentally use AI. The exact scope of these exceptions remains unclear. The new rules also restrict submissions in non-English languages, citing a desire to maintain a community focused on open-source projects in English. The move has ignited a heated debate among users, with some expressing support for the new rules and others criticizing the restrictions.

In a bizarre incident, two men in Charlotte, North Carolina, were stopped by police while riding an electric couch down the street. The couch was apparently powered by a pair of Lime electric scooters. This unusual mode of transportation has raised questions about the limits of electric scooter use. The police pulled over the riders, but it is unclear what charges or penalties they may face. The incident highlights the creative ways people are using electric scooters, but also raises concerns about safety and regulation. The couch was reportedly cruising down the street, but it is unknown how fast it was going or how well it was maneuvering.

Google has announced the development of a new artificial intelligence model that significantly improves image recognition capabilities. The model, called 'Gemini,' utilizes a novel approach to processing visual data, allowing for more accurate identification of objects and scenes within images. According to Google, Gemini has achieved state-of-the-art performance in various benchmark tests, outperforming existing models in several categories. The technology is expected to have a substantial impact on applications such as self-driving cars, medical imaging, and surveillance systems. Google has not disclosed the exact details of the Gemini model, citing the need for further research and development. However, the company plans to make the technology available to the public in the near future, potentially leading to breakthroughs in various fields.

Volkswagen has launched the ID. Unyx 09 in China, a move aimed at reviving the company's struggling presence in the country. The German automaker has been facing a decline in sales as Chinese consumers increasingly opt for electric vehicles from local brands. Volkswagen's partnership with a Chinese company is seen as a strategic attempt to regain market share. The ID. Unyx 09 is priced at $27,000, a competitive offering in the Chinese market. The move comes as the German auto industry faces a crisis due to the shift in consumer preferences in China. Volkswagen's decision to team up with a Chinese company may help the company adapt to the changing market dynamics. However, the success of this strategy remains to be seen.

Researchers have found direct physical evidence that the Laurentide Ice Sheet, which once buried most of Canada under two miles of ice, may have started to re-grow about 2,000 years ago. The study, published in Science, suggests that the ice sheet reached its smallest size around 3,600 years ago before beginning to expand again. However, human-caused climate warming reversed this trend around 1960, halting the potential new ice age. The researchers were able to determine the ice sheet's history by studying the temperature at the base of the Barnes Ice Cap, the last remaining fragment of the Laurentide Ice Sheet.

The Verge has highlighted the need for users to consider alternative browsers. In a recent article, the publication emphasized the importance of exploring new options. The move comes as users seek more efficient and secure browsing experiences. Key details are scarce, but the article suggests a shift towards browser diversification. The exact reasons behind this trend are unclear, but it is evident that users are seeking change. The article does not specify which browsers are being considered as alternatives. However, it is likely that users will explore options that prioritize security and performance. The impact of this trend on the browser market remains to be seen.

Laika’s latest feature, Wildwood, has finally hit theaters after a 20‑year development cycle that began in the early 2000s. The film’s cinematography was handled by veteran filmmaker Caleb Deschanel, who has worked on high‑profile projects such as The Passion of the Christ, Titanic, and Twin Peaks. Deschanel, who had never worked on a stop‑motion project before, was struck by the sheer scale of the production. He noted that what initially seemed like a straightforward process quickly unfolded into a complex, multi‑layered endeavor involving hundreds of miniature sets, dozens of animators, and an extensive lighting schedule. Wildwood’s release showcases the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Laika’s work and highlights the long lead times required for high‑quality stop‑motion animation.

Cloudflare and Commerce. com have rolled out an edge‑level implementation of Google’s WebMCP browser standard, automatically injecting a tiny script into almost 100,000 Commerce. com storefronts. The script exposes a set of structured tools—search_products, add_to_cart, etc. —directly inside the shopper’s browser session, letting AI assistants navigate sites without guessing clicks or triggering bot checks. Merchants can opt out on a per‑store basis through a Cloudflare configuration rule, and the system supports Commerce. com’s custom MCP path at /api/mcp. If a site’s MCP server is offline or the browser lacks WebMCP support, the script exits and the page loads normally. The move lets merchants keep control of checkout and customer data while enabling fast, reliable agent‑powered shopping across their entire network.

Microsoft’s latest data and AI agents are now helping TK Elevator’s service technicians in Cologne access decades of shared knowledge. The new system pulls relevant information from the company’s vast knowledge base, allowing technicians to find answers quickly and focus on maintenance tasks. By streamlining the search process, the platform reduces the time technicians spend troubleshooting and increases the time they spend keeping people moving. The integration of Microsoft’s technology into TK Elevator’s workflow demonstrates how AI can enhance operational efficiency in complex infrastructure maintenance. Technicians can now resolve issues faster, lowering equipment downtime and improving service reliability across the company’s fleet of elevators and escalators.

NHTSA has released a proposal to amend FMVSS 108, the federal standard governing vehicle lamps and reflective devices. The changes would adjust the test‑voltage requirement for integral‑beam headlamps and drop rules that apply only to vertical headlamp arrangements. For vehicles equipped with automated driving systems that lack manually operated driving controls, the proposal would exempt them from several existing mandates, including those for manually operated turn‑signal, hazard‑warning, and beam‑switching controls. It would also narrow telltale requirements to vehicles with manual controls and introduce the term “telltale” throughout the standard. Finally, the proposal would permit cyan‑colored ADS marker lamps as optional lighting equipment in ADS‑equipped vehicles. The agency says the updates remove unnecessary burdens while preserving safety.

On October 16, 2026, Google revised its privacy policy, removing a clear prohibition that had previously barred the use of Gmail, Drive, and Photos data for ad personalization. The new wording now allows such data to inform ads when it is shared with other Google services. This change coincides with the launch of Personal Intelligence, a 2026 feature that lets users feed data from multiple apps into Google AI products to improve responses. While the policy’s intent is to enhance AI performance, it also creates a pathway for Gmail content to be used in targeted advertising. The update was first noted by Android Authority, and it signals a shift in how Google may monetize sensitive user data. Users who previously relied on the policy’s guarantee of no ad personalization from Gmail may now see ads that reflect their email content.

Xbox's first chief operating officer, Helen Chiang, has left Microsoft after a brief tenure that began in July. The 21‑year veteran, who previously led the Minecraft division, was promoted to the new role in a move that aimed to streamline operations across the gaming division. CEO Asha Sharma announced the departure in a short internal memo, thanking Chiang for her service. With Chiang’s exit, her day‑to‑day duties are being redistributed among existing Xbox leaders, including the chief strategy officer and the head of product. The reshuffle follows a rapid creation of the COO position, suggesting a reevaluation of executive structure within Xbox. The company will now rely on its senior team to maintain continuity while it considers the next step for the role.

Popcorn Time, the torrent‑streaming app that once drew the MPAA’s ire, has been abandoned for years, yet millions of Windows, macOS and Android devices still carry it. Eye Security researchers discovered that the updater for a fork called Time4Popcorn remains active on these systems, reaching out to defunct web domains over unencrypted HTTP and relying on an outdated, insecure version of Chrome. The software’s continued operation could allow attackers to co‑opt the devices into a bot army. The study urges users and administrators to disable the app immediately to prevent exploitation. The finding highlights how dormant, unmaintained applications can become a vector for large‑scale cyber‑attacks, endangering both individual users and broader network security.

Tesla's proposed 'Project Crystal Sun' solar factory in Texas may receive significant tax incentives if it moves forward. The Fort Bend County commissioners have approved four agreements that could grant the factory up to 35 years of local tax breaks on its equipment. However, Tesla has not yet confirmed its plans to build the plant in Texas. The vote in favor of the agreements was unanimous, with all four commissioners supporting the proposal. The exact terms and conditions of the agreements have not been disclosed, but they are expected to provide a substantial financial boost to the project. If the factory is built, it could create hundreds of jobs and contribute significantly to the local economy. The agreements are a significant step forward for the project, but Tesla's commitment to building the plant remains uncertain.

Intel secured a one‑year waiver from the Federal Communications Commission after the agency announced a ban on foreign‑made robots that could affect semiconductor manufacturing. The ban, aimed at limiting the use of certain robotic vehicles in U. S. facilities, left Intel uncertain about whether it could continue employing automated guided vehicles (AGVs) that move materials on predefined paths. On Oct. 22, the FCC issued an order granting Intel permission to keep using these AGVs in its U. S. fabs for twelve months. The vehicles, which require operator oversight, are essential for material handling in Intel’s production lines. The waiver allows the company to maintain current production schedules without replacing or redesigning its logistics systems. It also signals how the FCC’s regulatory decisions are being navigated by major chipmakers.

In a recent study, neurobiologists examined how crows determine the direction of a drifting cloud of flickering specks—a classic random‑dot‑motion task used to probe decision‑making in primates. In mammals, neurons in the neocortex accumulate visual evidence over time, with firing rates rising until a threshold triggers a choice. Birds, however, lack a neocortex, raising the question of how their brains encode similar decisions. The research, led by Andreas Nieder at the University of Tübingen, seeks to uncover the neural circuitry that allows crows to process motion cues and reach a perceptual conclusion. By comparing avian and mammalian strategies, the study aims to broaden understanding of how diverse brain architectures support rapid visual judgments.

Apple has added a playful easter egg to its Apple Music service: a fully functional recreation of the first‑generation iPod appears on the platform’s 404 error page. The virtual device was discovered by users on social media on Friday after they noticed that any non‑existent Apple Music URL—created by appending random characters to the base address—loads the nostalgic player. The iPod is stocked with a selection of early‑2000s tracks, including Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida” and Gorillaz’s “Feel Good Inc.” The feature is a nod to the company’s heritage and offers a brief, interactive detour for listeners who stumble onto a broken link. Apple has not announced any plans to expand the easter egg beyond the error page, but the find has sparked interest among fans of the original device.

Users are turning their smart TVs into ad‑free, custom‑designed homescreens by harnessing large‑language models and open‑source tools. The Verge reports a surge of social‑media posts showing people strip advertising and tracking code, trim unnecessary packages, and rewrite the launcher that controls the TV’s interface. One example is a user who transformed the home screen into a Pokémon‑themed town, while another employed Claude Code to locate the device on Wi‑Fi, delete 25 Xiaomi‑related packages, and install a new launcher after a pre‑Netflix sponsored ad appeared. The trend demonstrates that consumers can bypass manufacturer‑built ad systems and speed up the operating system. TV makers are urged to respond, as the ability to remove ads and reconfigure the interface challenges their current business model and raises privacy concerns.

On its Q3 2026 earnings call, Elon Musk announced that Tesla will not ship its Optimus humanoid robot to external customers until the end of 2027. Musk said the robot’s hands, durability, and artificial‑intelligence systems still require significant refinement. These three issues mirror the challenges faced by other humanoid‑robot makers. Musk also noted that, contrary to his earlier claims, competitors such as XPeng and Hyundai’s Boston Dynamics are at least as advanced in their development. The delay underscores the difficulty of translating prototype technology into a market‑ready product. Tesla’s postponement may influence investor expectations and the broader race to commercialize humanoid robots.

Indian certificate authority eMudhra has announced its withdrawal from the TLS business, citing increasing costs and complexities of compliance requirements. The decision comes after the company issued eight intermediate TLS credentials with weak encryption keys, including one with a private key of just 4. eMudhra's chairman, V. Srinivasan, stated that the business generated only 1 percent of the company's revenue and was further impacted by the emergence of free TLS certificate providers. The company's board concluded that withdrawing from the global SSL/TLS market was the right decision for eMudhra and its shareholders, despite the controversy surrounding the incident. eMudhra's exit from the TLS business is a significant development in the certificate authority landscape, highlighting the challenges faced by companies in maintaining compliance and generating revenue in this sector.

Meta has turned its Muse conversation‑sharing feature back on after security researchers highlighted that public links were easy to locate. Claroc investigators found that Muse URLs were named after the conversation title and published in public DNS, exposing sensitive content such as a marketing firm’s internal revenue review and a small business owner’s loan application. Ars Technica reported that Meta had paused the feature earlier in the week after the researchers reached out. In a recent X post, Meta’s David Singleton confirmed the reactivation, noting that the underlying issue had been addressed. The move restores the convenience of shared conversations, but the public DNS naming scheme still allows third parties to discover private exchanges unless users adjust their privacy settings.

Tesla’s Optimus robot is reportedly in production, yet the company cautions it is not yet ready for full deployment. Tesla also plans to allow customers to add their own vehicles to a robotaxi fleet next year, though the feasibility remains unclear. Meta announced a new class of shares to fund its AI initiatives, noting that a $22 billion child‑safety settlement has already cut into potential earnings. Tesla’s Q3 revenue remained flat, and the company is in talks with SpaceX about a possible merger. Elon Musk said SpaceX will attempt to catch its Starship booster for the first time, while the company credits a surge in AI‑driven revenue for its recent growth. Netflix, meanwhile, reassured investors despite declining viewership.

Etsy announced new listing rules to curb AI-generated content that misleads buyers. Under the policy, sellers must provide at least one unedited photo of the item on a real background, and all other images must accurately depict the product. The change follows complaints that buyers cannot distinguish AI‑generated items and that sellers fear their handmade work will be compared to AI‑slop. The platform will enforce these standards to protect authenticity and buyer trust. Sellers who fail to comply risk removal of their listings. The update signals a broader industry push to regulate AI use in e‑commerce. Etsy will monitor compliance through automated checks and manual reviews, and will provide sellers with guidelines on acceptable image editing. The policy is effective immediately and applies to all active listings.

Spotify co‑CEO Alex Norström announced on the company’s earnings call that the streaming giant is rolling out a QR‑code verification system to ensure Family Plan subscribers actually live together. The new method requires the plan manager to scan a code on each member’s phone, a step that Spotify says will help detect and prevent abuse of the plan’s six‑account limit. Norström described the change as a "routine improvement" rather than a crackdown, noting that the Family Plan has been part of Spotify’s lineup for roughly 12–13 years and represents a sizable portion of its subscription offerings. The QR‑code check will be implemented across the platform, with the company monitoring compliance and adjusting enforcement as needed.

On its Q3 2026 earnings call, Tesla omitted a question that ranked fifth in shareholder interest on the Say platform. The question asked when owners of Hardware 3 would learn if they receive a free computer upgrade for the unsupervised Full Self‑Driving (FSD) feature they paid for. Tesla read and answered questions ranked lower, but passed over this query without comment. The omission leaves Hardware 3 owners without a clear timeline for the upgrade, creating uncertainty about the availability of the promised FSD capability. Investors and owners now must wait for further clarification from Tesla, which could affect perceptions of the company’s commitment to its FSD roadmap.

Global PC shipments declined by 21 percent year-over-year in Q3 2026, according to Counterpoint Research. This significant drop follows months of rising component prices, including RAM, SSDs, and chips from major manufacturers. The decline in PC shipments mirrors a 14-year low in smartphone shipments during the same quarter. Counterpoint Research attributes the decline in PC shipments to higher component prices. PC shipments had been steadily increasing for over two years prior to Q2 2026, but the recent price hikes have taken a toll on demand for new PCs. The price hikes have affected a wide range of devices, from high-end MacBooks to affordable Raspberry Pis. The decline in PC shipments is a concerning trend, particularly for manufacturers and consumers who rely on these devices for daily use.