Products, platforms, chips, and the companies behind them. Reporting about technology rather than marketing for it: launches, outages, acquisitions, and regulation, minus the deal roundups and affiliate listicles.
The Federal Trade Commission recently imposed a five‑year ban on General Motors for selling customer driving data to third‑party brokers, a move that followed a New York Times investigation that linked the data to higher insurance premiums. GM had long collected detailed metrics such as speeding frequency and nighttime driving, feeding that information to LexisNexis and Verisk, which use it to build risk profiles for insurers. Many drivers were unaware of the data sharing because the Opt‑in process for OnStar’s Smart Driver feature was confusing and automatically enabled data collection when users signed up for connected services. A Mozilla Foundation study of major automakers’ privacy policies found that every company had “horrible privacy and security,” and that consumers were forced to accept overlapping terms for the vehicle, its app, and financing. Consumer Reports echoed these findings, concluding that almost every U.S. automaker collects and sells driver‑behavior data with little public scrutiny. In response, lawmakers have introduced the DRIVER Act, which would give owners more control over their data but still allow automakers to sell it, a compromise that privacy advocates reject. Meanwhile, former Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has proposed a “Freedom Car” that would prohibit wireless data transmission, reflecting a push for simpler, disconnected vehicles. As the debate continues, consumers are demanding cars that do not collect excessive data, and it remains unclear whether new legislation will curb the industry’s data practices.
The Interim Computer Museum (ICM) is a 501(c)(3) non‑profit dedicated to preserving the evolution of computing. Visitors can interact with vintage hardware that has been updated with modern enhancements, providing a hands‑on experience that bridges past and present technology. ICM operates in partnership with the SDF Public Access UNIX System, Inc., a 501(c)(7) membership organization that helps fund community events, remote access, and artifact preservation. Membership and donations are essential for sustaining the museum’s activities, and the site offers contact and booking information for visits and newsletters.
Instagram has introduced a new feature that lets users add posts in which they are tagged to their own profile grid. The option appears as an “Add to grid” button when a tagged post is opened, and the added photo shows a small tag icon in the top‑right corner of its thumbnail. By placing tagged content on their main feed, creators can showcase collaborations and brand partnerships more prominently, reinforcing Instagram’s community‑centric strategy. The move follows a series of profile‑customisation updates, including a June 2026 drag‑and‑drop reordering feature that replaced the former reverse‑chronological order. Instagram head Adam Mosseri described the reordering launch as “finally” a relief for users pressured to post. The platform has also rolled out other collaboration tools such as post collaborators, collaborative Stories and a remix function, though an AI‑powered remix option was later removed. With Reels now accounting for roughly half of user time, Instagram is prioritising features that encourage interaction rather than purely video consumption. The tagged‑post addition is a small tweak that supports the broader goal of keeping users engaged through community interaction.
Dual‑band routers broadcast Wi‑Fi on both 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz bands simultaneously, giving devices more bandwidth options. The 2.4 GHz band reaches farther and penetrates walls better, making it ideal for smart‑home gadgets and devices in distant rooms. In contrast, the 5.0 GHz band delivers higher speeds but has a shorter range, so it’s best for high‑bandwidth activities like 4K streaming and gaming. Most modern routers automatically assign devices to the optimal band, but users can see separate network names or switch manually if needed. Gaming routers often add a prioritization feature that lets you give consoles or PCs a bandwidth boost while keeping other traffic in check. Even with a dual‑band setup, overall performance still depends on the internet plan, router placement, and physical obstructions. To confirm a router is dual‑band, check the device label for a dual‑band or tri‑band sticker, or scan the available networks on a phone. If you’re unsure, simply Google the model number and review the specifications on the manufacturer’s website.
Users testing the iOS 27 beta have reported a glitch that causes digital passports to disappear from the Apple Wallet app. This issue specifically affects the Digital ID feature, which allows travelers to use their iPhones at TSA checkpoints in over 250 American airports.
While the bug has caused significant concern for travelers, the problem is reportedly easy to resolve. Affected users can restore their credentials by simply re-adding their passport information to the Wallet app. Reports of the disappearing IDs have surfaced on social media platforms like X.
This technical error serves as a practical warning against using beta software on primary devices. Although testers have noted improved performance and speed in the iOS 27 version, the software remains unfinished and prone to unexpected crashes. Experts suggest using spare devices for beta testing to avoid disrupting daily essential functions.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has announced a target launch of orbital data centers in late 2027, positioning the company at the forefront of the AI infrastructure race. The move would provide high‑speed, low‑latency compute power for the growing demand for artificial‑intelligence workloads, according to portfolio manager Evelyn Chow of Neuberger. However, industry observers warn that the technology is still a decade away, with significant satellite launches and connectivity upgrades needed before large‑scale deployment becomes viable. Cooling presents a major hurdle, as space‑based facilities must dissipate heat in vacuum and withstand radiation, a challenge that terrestrial data centers avoid with liquid cooling systems. Rapid hardware evolution also threatens obsolescence; GPUs can become outdated in a few years, making a costly space launch potentially uneconomical if the equipment is not state‑of‑the‑art at launch. Transcelestial’s laser‑based communication work seeks to address the high‑volume data transfer problem, ensuring that orbital centers can feed massive AI models back to Earth in real time. Powering hyperscale operations may require nuclear solutions, a prospect that could add another five to seven years to reach full capacity, according to CEO Rohit Jha of Transcelestial. While SpaceX has a history of exceeding expectations, the consensus among experts is that true orbital data center scale will likely emerge in the 2030s, contingent on satellite density and infrastructure maturity.
Sony’s new Bravia 5 mini‑LED TV offers a surprisingly strong picture for its price, challenging Sony’s own mid‑range lineup. The 65‑inch model, priced at $1,499.99, features a 120 Hz panel, 240‑zone local dimming and a Master Backlight Drive architecture. Its VA panel and XR processor deliver deep blacks, bright highlights up to 900 nits on a 10 % HDR window and 595 nits full‑HDR. The TV runs Google TV with built‑in Chromecast, AirPlay, and Apple HomeKit, and supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio. Sony includes 10 free films and 24‑month access to Sony Pictures Core, and the Bravia 5 earned an IMAX Enhanced badge for its mastering capabilities. Reviewers note the Bravia 5’s contrast and color accuracy rival higher‑priced models, while its 120‑Hz refresh keeps gamers satisfied. The 40 W acoustic multi‑audio speaker system, with dual bass‑reflex drivers and tweeters, delivers immersive sound for both movies and games. Overall, the Bravia 5 provides a compelling value proposition for consumers seeking premium picture quality without the premium price tag.
If your PC is plagued by crashes, BSODs or sluggish performance, Windows’ built‑in Memory Diagnostic can help you pinpoint faulty RAM. The utility runs outside the normal Windows environment, so you should save all work before starting the test. Open the Start menu, type ‘Windows Memory Diagnostic’ and click the first result, or press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe and hit enter. A dialog offers two options; choose ‘Restart now and check for problems’ to let the computer reboot into the diagnostic mode. During the test you can press F1 to select between Basic, Standard or Extended test mixes, and set how many passes to run, up to fifteen. When the test finishes the system restarts and the results are logged in Windows Event Viewer under the MemoryDiagnostics‑Results source. Filter the System log for that source, then review the description to see whether any errors were found or if the memory is clean. If problems are detected, try testing each RAM stick separately or disabling XMP/EXPO profiles in the BIOS to isolate the faulty module.
Bluetti has announced its new Pioneer 5000, a solar‑powered generator that claims to rival traditional gas units. The unit sits on a dolly cart and can deliver up to 18 kW of instant surge power, enough to start heavy equipment such as air compressors, water pumps and industrial motors. Built with an IP65 rating, the Pioneer 5000 is dust‑ and water‑resistant and can operate between –20 °C and 55 °C, making it rugged for outdoor use. A single 5.12 kWh LFP battery can be expanded to 35 kWh, giving the generator enough capacity to power an average American home at full load for just over a day. The device accepts both AC and solar input, charging at up to 6.2 kW, and is marketed as a cleaner, quieter alternative to gas‑powered generators for job sites, events, emergency teams and homes. Bluetti cautions that recharging the Pioneer 5000 during a power outage could be difficult, suggesting a backup gas generator might still be useful for re‑charging. Pricing and availability details remain to be announced, with the company promising updates once the product rolls out.
GoPro announced its sale to Starman Optical for $285 million in cash, clearing a $92 million debt that had weighed on the action‑camera maker. The deal, described as a merger, will reposition GoPro from a consumer‑camera brand to a provider of defense, government, robotics and aerospace imaging solutions. CEO Nick Woodman said the merger would help GoPro grow across consumer, commercial and defense markets, but the statement also emphasized “industry‑leading imaging solutions” and “AI infrastructure.” The shift raises doubts about the future of GoPro’s flagship Mission 1 line, especially regarding firmware updates, app compatibility and accessory production. While GoPro’s press release promises continued support for existing products, critics note that the company’s focus on high‑tech markets could sideline the consumer ecosystem that has long been its core. The acquisition has left many potential Mission 1 buyers, including the author, hesitant to pre‑order until the company’s long‑term commitment to consumer hardware is clarified.
Soundcore Nebula P1 launched late 2025 at $799, offering 1080p laser DLP projection and a 650‑lumens output, suitable for dark or outdoor settings. The compact 5.3‑lb unit includes a detachable 2‑channel Bluetooth speaker system that delivers a wide soundstage, a feature that most competitors lack. Built‑in Google TV lets users stream from YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video without an external HDMI source, and the projector supports 3‑DLP optics and 20‑hour speaker battery life. The design features a gimbal stand, USB‑C power, and IP33/IP54 weather‑resistance, making it easy to transport and set up for backyard movie nights. However, the 650‑lumens brightness limits large‑screen use, and the unit’s 1080p resolution can show a screen‑door effect on very large images. Users noted that the speakers sometimes fail to recharge via pogo pins after long use, and the gimbal lacks tilt correction, which can affect aiming on uneven surfaces. Despite these quirks, the Nebula P1 offers a compelling value compared to pricier models like the Hisense M2 Pro or JMGO N1S Pro, especially for portable outdoor viewing. Price dips to as low as $639 during sales provide an opportunity to acquire the device at a discount.
Singapore's EcoFriend Awards this year honored 14 innovators for breakthroughs in sustainable technology, including cellulose‑based batteries and upcycled soybean pulp. The cellulose batteries, made from paper‑derived material, can cut carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to lithium batteries, though they face performance challenges. Eugene Chow explained that the goal is not to produce the most powerful battery, but the most sustainable one for everyday products, such as powering real‑time parcel tracking labels. Meanwhile, a researcher has turned discarded soybean pulp into food items like sliced cheese and creamy soups, and as a bio‑stimulant it can boost vegetable yields by up to 50%, according to trials led by Dr. Hang. The awards, which received more than 500 entries for the first time in a decade, reflect growing interest in environmental sustainability across Singapore's private, public, and non‑government sectors. Singapore is also preparing its first national adaptation plan for climate challenges, slated for release in 2026.
Trezor has alerted 14,000 customers to a data breach at its shipping partner Shipmunk. The incident exposed customers' names, addresses, phone numbers, and emails. This information could be used for phishing or physical attacks on customers' Bitcoin and crypto. Treasure is urging customers to be cautious. The breach affects 11,742 customers with sensitive information exposed.
Experts predict that a quantum computer could crack encryption standards by 2029, posing a significant threat to secure online transactions and communication. This accelerated timeline is attributed to recent breakthroughs in quantum computing algorithms.
Kemi Clark, the wife of Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, has been revealed as a key advisor to the AI lab despite having no official title. Clark's past connections to Jeffrey Epstein and her efforts to secure funding for her own ventures have raised questions about her influence and the inner workings of Silicon Valley's elite.
Microsoft is introducing a customizable context menu in Windows 11, allowing users to personalize their experience. The new feature enables users to turn on or off various options, including third-party app extensions, and even restore the legacy context menu. This update aims to make the context menu faster and easier to use.
Automakers are building software-defined vehicles that can receive over-the-air updates. However, this raises questions about how long these vehicles will last. Industry experts are concerned that hardware may not be able to handle software updates, leading to potential problems down the road. Companies are trying to build in space for potential upgrades, but it remains to be seen how long these vehicles will remain functional.
Apple offers an education discount for students and some employees, but there are other ways to save money on Apple gear. Retail stores and online marketplaces like Amazon often have sales on MacBooks and other devices. Refurbished Macs are also a cost-effective option, with prices starting at $599.
A review of the Samsung Z Fold 8 highlights its impressive design and display, but also raises concerns about its high price point and limited use cases. The phone's inner display is great for content consumption, but its productivity features are underwhelming, making it hard to justify the $2,000 price tag.
The AMD Radeon RX 9050 has been reviewed, and the results are disappointing. The card's performance is poor, and it's overpriced at $280. Additionally, it shares the same name as a broken 4-gigabyte version, which may cause confusion. The reviewer tested the card and found that it's significantly slower than the RX 9060 XT and can't compete with Nvidia's GeForce RTX 5050. The card's power consumption is also relatively low, but its temperature and noise levels are not a concern.
NASA has announced the launch of Max Power, a two-day event showcasing American innovation in air and space. The event, taking place on November 7th and 8th at the Kennedy Space Center, will feature space hardware, interactive mission simulators, moon rovers, and more. Max Power aims to inspire the next generation of explorers and demonstrate the capabilities of American aerospace companies.
Google has introduced two new Gemini intelligence features for the Pixel 11 devices. The features include audio translation and magic capture. The audio translation feature allows users to translate audio in real-time, while the magic capture feature enables users to take professional-looking photos without having to manually press the shutter button.
Audi aims to regain market share with its youngest premium SUV lineup in the US, featuring the Q9 and SQ9. The company is targeting growing demand for SUVs, which now account for over 80% of the premium space. Audi's new lineup is designed to compete with German rivals, particularly BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
The Honor robot phone has been making waves with its innovative gimbal camera. This feature allows for smooth and stable video recording, even in challenging environments. The camera can be controlled manually or automatically, and it also has a range of modes, including tilt lock and FPV mode. The phone's camera system is also capable of taking panoramic shots and wide-angle photos. However, the stitching feature could be improved, as the resulting images have a lower resolution than expected.
A prototype of the Microsoft Surface Phone, a device that was heavily rumored for years, has leaked online. The device, which is believed to have been built in 2013, features a 720p display, a metal frame, and a Microsoft logo on the back. It is unclear why the device was never released, but some speculate that the acquisition of Nokia may have been a factor.
A conversation with a pioneer in the smart glasses industry reveals the evolution of wearable technology and the potential impact of smart glasses on our daily lives. The expert shares their experience working on Apple Watch and their vision for the future of smart glasses. They discuss the importance of collaboration between tech and fashion industries and the potential for smart glasses to revolutionize the way we access information.
Google has launched its Pixel 11 series and Pixel Watch 5, but the upgrades are largely iterative. The new phones feature improved cameras, brighter displays, and a notification LED that can glow different colors. However, the upgrades are not as significant as expected, and the phones are similar to last year's models. The Pixel Watch 5 has seen a price rise but also boasts 50% more RAM and improved GPS tracking.
While iPhones have their advantages, switching from Android can mean giving up some control over notifications, navigation, and customization. Some users may find the iOS keyboard frustrating, and charging speed can be a weak point compared to some Android devices.
As driverless cars become more prevalent, urban planners and residents alike are envisioning a future where transportation is transformed. With the potential to unlock innovation and reduce energy consumption, cities may see significant changes in their infrastructure and design. From repurposed car parks to improved road safety, the impact of self-driving technology is likely to be far-reaching.
Nvidia's GeForce RTX 5090 is struggling to deliver smooth gaming performance at 6K resolution. In a recent test, the GPU managed to achieve only 42 FPS at 6K, which is a significant drop from its performance at 4K. To achieve playable frame rates, the ultra preset with DLSS performance had to be used, but even then, the RTX 5090 delivered only 72 FPS at 6K. This raises questions about the feasibility of 6K gaming with current hardware. The test also compared the RTX 5090 to the RTX 570 Ti, which fared even worse, struggling with path tracing at 4K.
A co-founder of Arm expects AI valuations to correct themselves, following the pattern of the internet bubble. Despite potential productivity gains, some valuations seem unjustified, particularly those based on massive investments between major AI players.
Google's latest Pixel lineup has been unveiled, featuring a new ring of LEDs that notifies users of incoming calls. However, the announcement was met with disappointment as the phones' prices have increased by $100 compared to last year's models. The Pixel 11 now costs $900, and the Pro Fold is priced at up to $1,900. The highlight of the presentation was actually a new AI model developed by DeepMind, which allows deaf users to sign language and have it translated into text. Additionally, Google's Pixel Tag is a $29 tracker that warns users before its battery dies, and the Watch 5 adds new health features. YouTube has also announced changes to its monetization policy, requiring creators to have 8,000 watch hours or 20 million shorts views to qualify for monetization.
The article reviews 11 ultra-slim tech accessories, including the Snap Grip and Stand, Pitaka cases, and the BMX Solid Safe Air 5K MagSafe battery pack. These accessories are designed to be compact, multifunctional, and easy to use. They offer features such as phone grips, stands, and wireless charging capabilities. The article highlights the benefits of using these accessories, including their slim design and ability to add value to one's mobile experience.
A leading expert in self-driving cars suggests that personal vehicle ownership will persist despite the rise of ride-hailing services. The expert believes that commercially owned fleets of robotaxis will be more efficient, and hybrid networks with both robotaxis and human-driven taxis will emerge. This could lead to increased adoption of ride-hailing, particularly in major cities, and reduced personal car ownership.
Singapore's Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing emphasized the importance of mastering emerging technologies to maintain the country's edge in defense innovation. He highlighted the need for future military leaders to develop new operational concepts and care for personnel. Two scholarship recipients, Felicia Tan and Fabius Tan, shared their interests in AI and quantum technology for defense applications.
Digital Foundry's John Linneman and Oliver McKenzie reflect on their first year of independence from IGN, discussing their progress, challenges, and future plans. Despite the difficulties, they've made significant strides in expanding their website, revamping their tools, and launching their retro podcast. However, the gaming industry's hardware crisis looms large, and the team remains cautious about the future.
Google's Pixel 11 Pro introduces a new Highlight LED indicator that provides subtle notifications. This feature is designed to inform users of important events without disrupting their surroundings. Users can customize the LED colors for specific contacts, ensuring they don't miss important calls. However, the feature currently lacks support for text messages, which is expected to be addressed in future updates.
Google has launched its new Pixel 11 series, but the flagship Pixel 11 Pro XL has seen a price increase and reduced specs. The base model now comes with 12GB of RAM, down from 16GB last year. However, users can upgrade to 16GB of RAM for an additional $100. The new device features a cluster of lights on the back, called 'Highlight,' which serves as a notification light. Google has also introduced new AI-powered features, including a camera mode called 'Magic Capture' and a teleprompter feature. Additionally, the Pixel 11 series includes a new voice-to-text feature and live translate capabilities.
Google's latest Pixel phones, including the Pixel 11, 11 Pro, and Pro Fold, offer incremental improvements over their predecessors. The new devices feature a multicolored LED light on the back, slightly faster wireless charging, and improved cameras. However, the price of the Pixel 11 Pro has increased by $100, and the Pixel Fold's price has also gone up. The phones' software features, such as call screening and now playing, remain a key aspect of the Pixel experience.
Google's new Pixel 11 series has been released, but it's underwhelming due to limited hardware upgrades. The phones feature faster wireless charging, improved cameras, and a new Tensor G6 chip, but these changes are not as significant as expected. The base Pixel 11 has four changes, including a faster wireless charger, a larger main camera sensor, a new chip, and a nicer design. However, other features, such as the battery life and graphics capabilities, remain unchanged. The Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL have similar upgrades, but with some notable omissions, including a reduced body temperature sensor and less RAM.
A tech enthusiast hosts a true or false quiz show, testing contestants' knowledge of various tech-related statements. The show features a mix of easy and challenging questions, with contestants reacting to the results. The quiz covers a range of topics, including Mac OS versions, CPU and GPU performance, and the history of the computer mouse.
Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro is expected to feature three significant upgrades, including a variable aperture camera, a smaller dynamic island, and improved battery life. The variable aperture camera will allow for better low-light performance and more control over depth of field. The smaller dynamic island will reduce the amount of screen space taken up by the camera cutout. The new C2 modem will improve data connectivity efficiency and provide faster overall performance. These upgrades aim to provide a better user experience and improve the camera capabilities of the iPhone.
Two individuals with no prior knowledge of printers embark on a journey to purchase a printer. They visit a Staples store and explore various options, discussing features, prices, and compatibility with different devices. The conversation highlights the complexity of the printer buying experience and the importance of considering factors such as color, scanning, and connectivity.
While OLED TVs are considered the best, they come with a higher price tag. However, advancements in LCD technology have made them a viable alternative. OLEDs offer excellent color contrast and faster response times, but LCDs have improved brightness and reduced image burn-in risk. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your viewing habits and budget.
India has threatened to revoke safe harbour protections for tech giants, citing a 2004 case where a website sold explicit content. The move could have significant implications for companies like Meta and Google.
Illinois has passed a law requiring all operating systems to collect and report user age data. The law aims to protect children from addictive social media platforms. However, critics argue that the law puts open-source operating systems at risk of fines. Meanwhile, YouTube has fixed a bug that flagged human-made videos as AI-generated, and Meta is open-sourcing its AI model.
A European tech pioneer shares his thoughts on the AI revolution, its potential impact, and Europe's chances of competing in this new wave of innovation.
A survey of Singaporean students reveals they feel unprepared for the demands of the job market due to the rapid development of AI. Students are expected to have advanced technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and soft skills. Universities are being called upon to strengthen fundamentals and provide more industry projects and collaboration opportunities.