‘High-Tech’

WhatsApp introduces themed chat bubbles, allowing users to personalize their messaging experience with adjustable colors, wallpapers, and text styles. The update enhances user customization while keeping changes private. With a global rollout underway, WhatsApp modernizes its interface to compete with other messaging apps, offering a more expressive and visually engaging chat experience.

Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses have surpassed 2 million sales since October 2023, signaling strong demand for AI-powered wearables. With plans to scale production to 10 million units by 2026 and introduce new features like built-in displays, Meta aims to make smart glasses a mainstream accessory amid growing competition.

Senate Republicans are pushing to eliminate federal EV tax credits and impose new fees on electric cars. Led by Senators Barrasso and Fischer, the proposed bills could raise EV costs and slow adoption. With Trump backing these measures, the future of U.S. EV incentives—and consumer affordability—remains uncertain.

In a brief mishap, Netflix unexpectedly integrated with Apple’s TV app, allowing seamless tracking and playback for a few hours. However, Netflix quickly corrected the “error,” reaffirming its stance against third-party aggregators. The glitch sparked discussions on user convenience, though Netflix remains committed to its independent platform—for now.

Treasury watchdogs are investigating DOGE over potential security risks tied to its Treasury payment system access. Concerns center on unauthorized entry, possible conflicts of interest, and Elon Musk’s leadership. Lawmakers push for transparency, fearing system vulnerabilities. The findings could reshape government security policies and oversight measures.

The Trump administration has barred AP from Oval Office and Air Force One access after it refused to adopt “Gulf of America” for the Gulf of Mexico. Major media outlets reject the directive, citing press freedom concerns, while tech companies comply. The dispute raises alarm over political influence in journalism.

After nearly 40 years, **Goonies 2** is officially in development at Warner Bros., with **Steven Spielberg** producing. While the plot and director remain unknown, speculation grows over whether the original cast will return. With nostalgia at an all-time high, fans eagerly await more details on this long-awaited sequel.

Meta is entering robotics by focusing on AI, sensor systems, and software rather than building physical robots. With a $65 billion AI investment and key hires, the company aims to power future machines through partnerships with robotics firms, shaping the industry’s future without directly competing in hardware manufacturing.

Instagram is testing a private comment downranking feature to improve conversations and reduce toxicity. Users can discreetly downvote unhelpful comments, influencing their visibility without public shaming. This initiative aims to create a more positive discussion environment, aligning with Meta’s broader efforts to enhance content moderation and user experience.

Amazon will remove the “Download & Transfer via USB” feature for Kindle books on February 26, 2025, limiting user control over purchased content. This change forces reliance on Amazon’s ecosystem, raising concerns about digital ownership. Users worry about losing the ability to back up, convert, or transfer their books freely.

Small business owners are struggling with rising costs due to Trump’s tariffs, which have increased prices for essential imported materials. Companies like Walnut Studiolo face tough decisions as production expenses climb. Many worry about balancing affordability and survival, navigating uncertainty as they adapt to ongoing supply chain challenges and inflationary pressures.

Robert Eggers’ chilling remake of *Nosferatu* arrives on Peacock on February 21, 2025. Starring Bill Skarsgård, Lily-Rose Depp, and Nicholas Hoult, the acclaimed horror hit offers both theatrical and extended cuts. With eerie visuals and haunting performances, this streaming debut is a must-watch for horror fans.

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra leak reveals a Leica-inspired smartphone with a stunning design and cutting-edge photography features. Boasting a 200MP periscope camera, Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and a 6.73-inch LTPO AMOLED display, this flagship device is set for a February 2025 launch alongside Xiaomi’s first electric vehicle, the SU7 Ultra.

Kagi has introduced Privacy Pass, a new feature enhancing anonymous searching. Using authentication tokens, it prevents search queries from being linked to users. Available to higher-tier subscribers, Privacy Pass reinforces Kagi’s commitment to privacy-focused search. With Tor support and seamless integration, it sets a new standard for private browsing.

Tesla showrooms nationwide are bracing for protests over Elon Musk’s alleged political ties, sparking concerns about the company’s future. Activists accuse Musk of authoritarianism, with some demonstrations turning hostile. Amid stock declines and falling sales, shareholders debate his leadership, questioning whether Tesla can withstand the mounting backlash.

Netflix briefly integrated with Apple TV, allowing users to link accounts and access features like “Continue Watching.” However, the integration was quickly reversed, with Netflix calling it inadvertent. This incident raises speculation about whether Netflix may reconsider its long-standing resistance to third-party aggregation in response to evolving streaming habits.

A security flaw in Elon Musk’s DOGE government website allowed public edits, exposing weak cybersecurity in his administration’s digital projects. Critics argue that transparency without security is reckless. This breach raises concerns about protecting taxpayer data and national infrastructure under Musk’s leadership, demanding urgent improvements in federal cybersecurity measures.

Microsoft Outlook has introduced a new minimize button for email drafts on mobile, allowing users to store drafts in a floating stack for quick retrieval. This update enhances multitasking efficiency, reducing interruptions. Rolling out in February 2025, it improves Outlook’s usability, making mobile emailing more seamless and intuitive.

Codeberg, a nonprofit open-source platform, faced a large-scale spam attack from far-right groups targeting diversity-focused projects. Exploiting a loophole, attackers flooded users with abusive messages. Codeberg swiftly responded, reinforcing security and condemning extremism. This incident highlights rising harassment in tech spaces and the urgent need for stronger protective measures.

Apple plans to launch AI-powered iPhones in China by May 2025, collaborating with Alibaba and Baidu to meet strict regulations. To comply, Apple will use local cloud providers and implement government-approved content moderation. This move highlights Apple’s adaptability and could shape how global tech firms approach regulated AI markets.

TikTok has returned to U.S. app stores after a temporary ban due to national security concerns. Former President Trump delayed enforcement, and a letter from Attorney General Pam Bondi cleared the path for its reinstatement. However, its future remains uncertain as negotiations continue over a potential sale to a U.S. company.

TikTok has returned to U.S. app stores after being removed due to legal restrictions. An executive order by President Trump and intervention by Attorney General Pam Bondi enabled its reinstatement. However, with only a temporary reprieve, the app’s long-term future remains uncertain as negotiations for a possible U.S. sale continue.

Google’s Gemini AI now features conversation recall, allowing users to resume chats seamlessly. Initially available for Gemini Advanced subscribers, this upgrade enhances AI memory, boosting productivity and personalization. Users can manage stored interactions, ensuring privacy. This update strengthens Gemini’s position against competitors like ChatGPT, making AI assistance more intuitive and efficient.

Google has introduced a recall feature for its AI assistant, Gemini, allowing it to remember past conversations for a more seamless experience. Available to Google One AI Premium subscribers, this update enhances context retention while ensuring user control over chat history. This advancement intensifies competition with OpenAI’s ChatGPT in AI-driven interactions.

Nvidia has postponed the RTX 5070 launch to March 5, 2025, strategically timing it after AMD’s Radeon RX 9070 reveal. This move allows Nvidia to adjust pricing and strategy. Meanwhile, the RTX 5070 Ti still debuts on February 20, keeping Nvidia competitive as AMD pushes forward with its next-gen GPUs.

Nvidia has delayed the RTX 5070 launch to March 5, 2025, strategically reacting to AMD’s February 28 reveal of the Radeon RX 9070 series. Meanwhile, the RTX 5070 Ti will still launch on February 20. This ongoing competition may lead to price adjustments and more options for gamers in 2025.

Former President Donald Trump proposes imposing tariffs up to 100% on foreign-made chips to push semiconductor manufacturing back to the U.S. While aiming to reduce reliance on Taiwan, experts warn of higher tech costs and supply chain disruptions. The debate continues on whether tariffs will revive U.S. chip production or backfire economically.

Amazon has significantly upgraded its Prime Video app for Apple TV, enhancing navigation, search, and accessibility. The update introduces Siri Remote gesture controls, real-time search results, and improved VoiceOver support. Additionally, higher-resolution thumbnails and broader compatibility make for a smoother, more inclusive streaming experience within Apple’s ecosystem.

Amazon has rolled out a major update for Prime Video on Apple TV, enhancing navigation, accessibility, and visual appeal. The update optimizes Siri Remote support, improves search functionality, and integrates Apple’s accessibility features. With high-resolution images and immersive effects, Prime Video now offers a smoother, more engaging streaming experience for Apple TV users.

Audio-Technica unveils the ATH-CC500BT2, pioneering cartilage conduction headphones for enhanced comfort and audio clarity. With 20-hour battery life, AI-powered noise reduction, IPX4 water resistance, and Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, they offer a compelling alternative to bone conduction models. Currently available in the UK and Europe, U.S. availability remains unannounced.

The Trump administration seeks to reclaim $20 billion from Biden’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, citing concerns over private management. A leaked EPA remark, comparing the funding to “gold bars,” fueled controversy. Experts warn rescinding funds could disrupt clean energy projects, while legal battles loom over the administration’s authority to revoke them.

Apple is reportedly upgrading its 27-inch Studio Display with Mini LED technology, promising improved brightness, contrast, and deeper blacks. Expected in late 2025 or early 2026, the display will retain its 5K resolution. This enhancement aims to offer creatives better visuals while keeping the price competitive within the current range.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been confirmed as HHS Secretary under President Trump, sparking controversy over his vaccine stance. Despite opposition, including from Mitch McConnell, Kennedy’s leadership is expected to reshape public health policies. His tenure will be closely watched amid concerns over vaccine mandates, disease prevention, and pandemic preparedness.

Android 16 Beta 2 introduces pro-level camera features like hybrid auto-exposure, manual color temperature control, and Ultra HDR HEIC support, enhancing mobile photography. These updates provide greater creative flexibility and image quality. Currently available for Pixel 6 and newer, the final release is expected in Q2 2025.

Blue Origin is cutting 10% of its workforce to streamline operations and boost efficiency. Despite layoffs, the company remains committed to space exploration, with its New Glenn rocket and a planned 2025 Moon mission. CEO David Limp emphasizes agility and innovation to strengthen Blue Origin’s position in the competitive space industry.

OnePlus has announced it will not release a new foldable phone in 2025, pausing its foldable plans while Oppo continues development. Although the brand isn’t exiting the market, fans will need to wait until at least 2026 for a potential follow-up to the OnePlus Open.

Square Enix has discontinued *Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles* on iOS due to an unfixable in-app purchase bug caused by Apple’s system changes. Affected players can request refunds through Apple Support. The game remains playable on Android, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch, highlighting the risks of platform dependency in digital gaming.

Twisted Metal Season 2 hits Peacock in summer 2025, bringing the deadly tournament to life. John Doe, Quiet, and new characters, including the enigmatic Calypso and Dollface, enter the brutal vehicular combat arena. Expect explosive action, shocking twists, and high-octane mayhem as the chaos intensifies in this thrilling new chapter.

Twisted Metal returns for Season 2 in summer 2025, bringing the long-awaited deadly tournament to life. John Doe, Quiet, and Sweet Tooth face intense battles, shocking twists, and new rivals. With Calypso’s tournament in full swing, chaos reigns. Get ready for high-speed destruction and dark humor—only on Peacock!

Apple CEO Tim Cook has teased a major announcement for February 19, 2025, fueling speculation about a new iPhone SE. Expected upgrades include Face ID, a larger display, Apple’s A18 chip, and an in-house modem. The redesign would modernize the budget-friendly iPhone, bringing it closer to Apple’s premium models.

Apple is set to unveil a major new device on February 19, 2025, with speculation pointing to a redesigned iPhone SE. Rumored upgrades include a larger display, Face ID, Apple’s A18 chip, and possibly an in-house modem. If true, this could be the most advanced SE model yet.

Amazon has officially renewed *The Rings of Power* for Season 3, continuing its ambitious Middle-earth saga. Filming begins in spring 2025, with key cast members returning. The upcoming season promises a darker tone, intense conflicts, and deeper connections to Tolkien’s timeline, setting the stage for larger battles and dramatic betrayals.

The U.S. State Department planned to procure $400M in armored Teslas but abruptly changed the description to “Armored Electric Vehicles” after media attention. The deal was then placed on hold, raising transparency concerns. Questions remain about Tesla’s involvement and the influence of politics on federal contracts.

The *Until Dawn* movie, directed by David F. Sandberg, reimagines the horror game with a chilling time-loop twist. Starring Ella Rubin and Peter Stormare, it intensifies the survival horror experience. With eerie visuals and high-stakes choices, this adaptation promises to deliver psychological dread when it hits theaters on April 25, 2025.

YouTube is revolutionizing short-form content with AI-generated video clips for Shorts. Using Google’s Veo 2 AI, creators can generate videos by entering text prompts. This feature expands creative possibilities while raising ethical concerns, addressed through AI watermarking. As AI filmmaking evolves, YouTube balances innovation with transparency, reshaping digital storytelling.

Bethesda’s **Indiana Jones and the Great Circle** is getting a major **DLSS 4** upgrade next week, enhancing visuals and performance with **Multi Frame Generation** and **Ray Reconstruction**. Nvidia’s **Game Ready Driver 572.42** ensures smooth integration, while AI-powered enhancements boost textures, shadows, and lighting for a more immersive gaming experience.

Honda and Nissan’s $60 billion merger collapsed due to leadership disputes, leaving Nissan vulnerable amid financial struggles. Instead, the companies will pursue a strategic partnership in EV technology. Honda’s independent approach and Nissan’s uncertain future highlight Japan’s evolving automotive landscape as competition from Tesla and Chinese manufacturers intensifies.

Apple has partnered with Alibaba to bring AI-powered features to iPhones in China, aiming to regain market share lost to Huawei and Xiaomi. Facing regulatory barriers, Apple chose Alibaba as its AI provider while also working with Baidu. This move reflects Apple’s commitment to adapting to China’s competitive smartphone landscape.

Apple may expand Vision Pro sales beyond its stores, as a new **Vision Pro Demo Fit** app hints at third-party retailer availability. This move could boost demand for the $3,500 headset, which has struggled in sales. It may also set the stage for a future, more affordable model.

Federal employees are abandoning Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp for encrypted apps like Signal due to privacy concerns and fears of political surveillance. Growing distrust in tech companies’ ties to the Trump administration has accelerated this shift, as workers seek safer communication platforms to protect sensitive discussions from potential government access.

Apple has resumed advertising on X after a year-long pause, despite ongoing content moderation concerns. Other major brands, including Disney and Amazon, are also returning. The move reflects shifting business priorities, with companies prioritizing audience reach over reputational risks amid evolving political and regulatory landscapes.

Nissan and Honda have called off their planned business integration, opting instead for a strategic partnership focused on electrification and intelligent vehicle solutions. This alliance allows both companies to collaborate on key technologies while maintaining independence, reflecting the need for flexibility in the rapidly evolving automotive industry.

Donald Trump settled his lawsuit against Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) for $10 million over his 2021 suspension. This deal follows similar settlements with Meta and ABC News, highlighting ongoing legal battles over social media bans. The case underscores debates on free speech and tech influence ahead of the 2024 election.

Housemarque, the studio behind *Returnal*, has announced *Saros*, a new PS5-exclusive sci-fi shooter launching in 2026. Set on the mysterious planet Carcosa, the game features a haunting narrative, refined action, and permanent progression mechanics. With Rahul Kohli starring, *Saros* promises an immersive and intense experience for PlayStation fans.

Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store is offering major discounts on the Mac Mini M4, with prices starting at just $509. These refurbished models undergo rigorous testing and include Apple’s standard warranty. With savings of up to $710 on high-end configurations, this is a great chance to get a powerful Mac Mini at a lower cost.

Elizabeth Holmes is attempting to reshape her public image from convicted fraudster to struggling mother, but skepticism remains. Her recent *People* interview highlights personal hardships, yet critics see it as a PR move. Without true accountability, her redemption efforts appear calculated rather than sincere, failing to erase public distrust.

Jeep’s 2026 Recon EV is set to redefine electric off-roading. Inspired by the Wrangler, this all-electric SUV features removable doors and rugged capability. Production starts in early 2025, with a late-year launch expected. A brief Super Bowl ad cameo and spy photos hint at Jeep’s bold push toward electrification.

LesserEvil faces backlash after revelations that CEO Charles Coristine’s 19-year-old son, Edward, holds a staff role at DOGE, led by Elon Musk. Critics accuse the company of nepotism, sparking boycott calls. LesserEvil’s vague response intensified frustration, raising concerns about government hiring and corporate accountability in today’s socially conscious marketplace.

Amazon is testing a feature allowing shoppers to buy directly from brand websites via its platform. This change expands product selection and helps brands maintain control over pricing and customer relationships. If successful, it may reshape online shopping by positioning Amazon as a broader e-commerce gateway rather than just a retailer.

The final season of *The Handmaid’s Tale* premieres April 8, 2025, promising a full-scale rebellion led by June Osborne. As tensions rise in Gilead, handmaids arm themselves, alliances shift, and power structures tremble. With resistance at its peak, the show’s explosive conclusion will leave a lasting impact.

OpenAI is gearing up for the launch of GPT-5, a groundbreaking AI model that unifies different AI systems into a smarter, seamless experience. With improved reasoning, adaptive capabilities, and structured rollout plans, GPT-5 marks a major leap forward. Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s $97.4 billion bid for OpenAI sparks industry speculation.

Yamaha’s Helm Master EX Wireless Control revolutionizes boating by offering handheld, wireless vessel maneuvering. Unveiled at the 2025 Miami International Boat Show, it enhances docking, launching, and navigation with autopilot integration, man-overboard detection, and waterproof design. Releasing in Fall 2025, this game-changing remote brings unprecedented freedom and control to boaters.

Waste.gov, a government site meant to expose inefficiencies, became an embarrassment after it was found to contain placeholder text instead of actual data. Launched under Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, the failed project raised concerns about transparency and highlighted the very waste it was designed to track.

Apple has launched an Apple TV Plus app for Android, expanding access beyond its ecosystem. The app includes offline viewing and Google Play billing but lacks movie rentals. This move signals Apple’s push to compete with streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+, tapping into a broader audience beyond Apple devices.

Overwatch 2 is set for major changes in 2025, introducing a perks system, 6v6 competitive mode, and the controversial return of loot boxes. New features like Stadium Mode, hero bans, and fresh characters aim to revitalize gameplay. Blizzard’s updates signal a bold shift to keep the franchise competitive.

Google is testing AI to estimate users’ ages, aiming to enhance online safety for minors. The system analyzes behavior to restrict underage users’ content access. New parental controls and transparency efforts accompany this initiative. Challenges include misidentifications and potential bypassing by tech-savvy kids, raising privacy and accuracy concerns.

Scarlett Johansson condemns an AI-generated deepfake falsely depicting her and other Jewish celebrities in an antisemitic controversy. She demands stronger regulations against AI misuse, warning of its growing role in misinformation. Johansson urges lawmakers to act, emphasizing the dangers deepfakes pose to reputations, public trust, and democracy.

Nintendo’s latest patent hints at rotatable Joy-Cons for the Switch 2, offering greater flexibility and player comfort. The proposed slot-and-magnet system enables seamless controller attachment and screen rotation. This innovation could enhance ergonomics, accessory support, and gameplay possibilities, making the Switch 2 a more versatile and immersive gaming experience.

Sony’s State of Play airs on February 12, 2025, featuring 40 minutes of PlayStation 5 game reveals. Expected highlights include *Ghost of Yotei*, *Wolverine*, and *Death Stranding 2*. Fans hope for surprises like *GTA VI* or a *Bloodborne* remaster. Watch live on YouTube and Twitch.

Adobe has launched Generate Video, an AI-powered tool that creates five-second videos from text or images. Integrated with Adobe’s creative suite, it competes with OpenAI’s Sora. Trained on licensed content for commercial safety, it offers professional-grade AI video generation, with subscriptions starting at $9.99 per month.

Apple has launched the Apple Health Study, a large-scale research initiative analyzing physical and mental health using data from iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods. Led by Dr. Calum MacRae, the study aims to improve digital health innovations and personalized monitoring while ensuring participant privacy and collaborating with top medical institutions.

Crytek has laid off 15% of its workforce and paused Crysis 4 development due to financial struggles. The studio is shifting focus to Hunt: Showdown 1896, prioritizing a live-service model. This move reflects broader industry trends, as rising costs push studios away from high-budget single-player games toward multiplayer-driven revenue models.

Wacom’s 2025 Intuos Pro introduces a sleeker design, expanded workspace, and mechanical dials for enhanced precision. With improved ergonomics, seamless connectivity, and the versatile Pro Pen 3, it’s a must-have for digital artists. Priced from $249.95, this upgrade reaffirms Wacom’s leadership in the creative tablet market.

The Samsung Galaxy A56 is set to launch in March 2025 with a sleek design, flat edges, and four color options. Leaks reveal an Exynos 1580 chipset, 5,000mAh battery, 45W fast charging, and an upgraded 12MP selfie camera. Competing with Apple and Google, its U.S. availability remains uncertain.

Waze’s latest CarPlay update revamps the interface with a modern design, quick navigation to frequent destinations, and relocated controls for better usability. While some users may find the changes disruptive, features like one-tap commuting aim to enhance convenience. The update is rolling out gradually, allowing feedback-driven refinements.

The Trump administration restored deleted government health webpages following a court order after a lawsuit by Doctors for America. The removals disrupted research and patient care, sparking concerns over government transparency. Advocacy groups are now ensuring the restored information remains accurate, with legal proceedings continuing to recover all missing resources.

The FCC is investigating Comcast’s DEI programs, questioning compliance with federal employment laws. Led by Chair Brendan Carr, the inquiry reflects growing regulatory scrutiny of corporate diversity efforts. As companies reassess DEI strategies to mitigate legal risks, the outcome may reshape workplace diversity initiatives and corporate governance amid shifting federal policies.

Jane Wurwand on the Dominance of ‘High-Touch’ over ‘High-Tech’ in Business In a candid interview with BBC correspondent Katty Kay,…