Hardware, software, AI, tools, startups, security, and everything shaping the future of technology.
Fury over Discord's Age Checks Explodes After Shady Persona Test in UK Key Takeaways Discord faced significant backlash over its global age verification rollout, particularly concerning the collection and handling of
The creator economy is rapidly evolving beyond ad revenue, with digital entrepreneurs like MrBeast building business empires through product lines and startup acquisitions. This shift highlights how influence is becoming infrastructure, though its scalability beyond top creators remains a key question. TechCrunch's Equity podcast unpacks this trend alongside developments in AI, fintech, and global tech infrastructure.
The best e-reader to buy right now Any ebook reader will let you cram a Beauty and the Beast-sized library’s worth of books in your pocket, but so will your phone. An ebook reader offers a more book-like reading
Android threats may be entering a new AI phase, according to Android Authority. This development suggests mobile malware could become more adaptive and sophisticated, challenging traditional security methods. While the precise AI models or real-time adaptation mechanisms are not detailed in the source, it underscores a critical evolution in the cybersecurity landscape for Android users and developers.
Brendan Carr has expressed a desire for "patriotic" programming to coincide with Trump's yearlong America 250 celebration. This initiative, reported by Ars Technica, aims to encourage content that aligns with national commemorative themes.
OpenAI smart speaker could dial up the creepiness with a camera to watch you Key takeaways A new device is reportedly in development, poised to enter the competitive smart home market. This unnamed device has the
Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, is retiring after a long tenure marked by the creation of Game Pass and major studio acquisitions. Asha Sharma, from Microsoft's CoreAI division, will succeed him as Executive VP and CEO, Microsoft Gaming. Sarah Bond is also leaving, while Matt Booty receives a promotion amidst challenges for the Xbox division.
Meta's flagship metaverse service, Horizon Worlds, is decoupling from its Quest VR platform and shifting its focus predominantly to mobile. This strategic pivot follows significant financial losses in Meta's mixed reality division and internal layoffs, signaling a move away from an all-encompassing VR metaverse vision toward mobile engagement, augmented reality, and AI investments.
Phil Spencer retires as Microsoft Gaming CEO after 38 years; Sarah Bond leaves Xbox presidency. Asha Sharma (ex-CoreAI) named new CEO, Matt Booty promoted. No layoffs promised amid leadership pivot.
Samsung has officially scheduled its Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event for February 25 in San Francisco, where it is expected to unveil the Galaxy S26 series, new Galaxy Buds 4, and the Galaxy S26 Edge. The event will highlight significant advancements in mobile AI, with new chips and potential partnerships driving enhanced on-device intelligence.
An Android Authority expert has declared the Jackery Explorer 5000 Plus as their single indispensable power station. This unequivocal endorsement, detailed in the article's headline alongside a mention of a record-low price deal, signifies a rare level of preference and a timely market opportunity. While specific product and deal details are not provided in the source quote, the expert's powerful statement underscores the device's perceived superior value.
Xbox Chief Phil Spencer Retires; Asha Sharma Named New Gaming CEO Redmond, WA – February 20, 2026 – Microsoft's gaming division is undergoing a significant leadership transition as Phil Spencer, the long-serving head of
Microsoft Gaming sees a major leadership shift as Phil Spencer departs after 12 years. Asha Sharma, with a diverse background in AI, Instacart, and Meta, takes over as CEO. Her first memo outlines a commitment to "the return of Xbox" and expansion into "new categories and markets" focused on player value.
The Trump administration has repealed Biden-era Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), reverting power plant pollution controls to 2012 levels. This rollback coincides with soaring electricity demand from AI data centers, domestic manufacturing, and electric vehicles. Critics argue the move sacrifices health protections for industry savings, while aging coal plants are kept online to meet the growing energy needs.
Jay Bhattacharya, the controversial NIH Director, has been appointed acting CDC Director, marking an unusual dual role amidst Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s leadership shake-up. Critics express alarm over Bhattacharya's perceived lack of leadership and history of endorsing anti-vaccine policies, fearing further destabilization of public health agencies and a rubber-stamping of unscientific agendas.
Indie game publisher Finji accuses TikTok of using generative AI to create "racist, sexualized" ads for its games without permission, despite Finji disabling AI features. One ad for 'Usual June' reportedly depicted a character drastically altered from its original design. TikTok initially denied, then acknowledged the issue, citing an unselected "catalog ads format." Finji's CEO expressed disappointment over TikTok's unresolved response and potential brand harm.
Microsoft is implementing a new return-to-office policy starting Feb. 23 for its Seattle-area workforce. Employees within a 50-mile radius of an office will be required to be in-person at least three days a week, a significant shift for the tech giant that aligns it with industry peers like Google and Meta.
A private premiere screening of “Holiguards Saga – The Portal of Force,” the pilot installment of the planned Holiguards Saga franchise, was held on February 16 at ASTOR Film Lounge Berlin. The exclusive, black-tie event gathered industry guests, partners, and media, with Kevin Spacey and Elvira Paterson highlighted in connection with the project.
NASA successfully completed a comprehensive wet dress rehearsal for its Artemis 2 moon mission, bringing the countdown to T-minus 29 seconds. This critical test, involving the Space Launch System rocket and Orion capsule, is a major step towards the first crewed lunar mission in over 50 years. Mission managers will now review the data to approve the final go-ahead, with March 6 targeted for liftoff.
You can do a lot with free AI, but premium subscriptions unlock advanced features, higher usage limits, and faster performance. This article guides you through deciding if an AI upgrade is worth it, focusing on how to align a plan with your specific needs and what pitfalls to avoid.
Pixar's upcoming "Toy Story 5" will feature an evil AI tablet named Lilypad as its central antagonist, challenging classic characters like Buzz Lightyear and Woody. The film delves into themes of excessive screen time and technology's impact on children, underscored by the AI's ominous declaration: "I'm always listening."
After nearly 15 years, Remitly co-founder and CEO Matt Oppenheimer is transitioning to board chair, handing the reins to Sebastian Gunningham. Oppenheimer reflects on the fintech giant's journey from a three-person startup to a $3B public company, sharing invaluable lessons on customer focus, cultural development, and leadership growth.
