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Tag: The Verge

  • Belkin’s Wemo Smart Devices to Lose Cloud Services, Impacting Remote Access and Integrations

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Belkin’s Wemo smart home devices will lose access to cloud services starting this Saturday, affecting remote control and integrations with Google Home and Alexa. The company also plans to cease app updates for the Wemo app from January 31st onwards.

    The planned shutdown, initially disclosed in July, primarily impacts a wide range of Wemo devices, such as smart plugs and a coffee maker, excluding specific Thread-based models like the 3-way smart light switch, stage smart scene controller, smart plug with Thread, and smart video doorbell camera. Devices configured via Apple’s HomeKit will remain functional after Saturday, but users must complete the setup within HomeKit before January 31st for continued usage.

    Following the cloud services disconnection, affected devices will only operate manually. Users with devices under warranty may qualify for a partial refund after the shutdown of cloud services.

    Source: The Verge

  • Analogue 3D Update Brings Wireless N64 Controller Compatibility

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    The latest update from Analogue, the Analogue 3D, now supports Nintendo’s wireless N64 controller, as reported by The Verge. The Analogue 3D, known for its four controller ports that initially only accommodated the N64’s original wired gamepads, has expanded its capabilities to include wireless functionality. This allows players to enjoy a wireless N64 experience, which was previously only possible with the 8BitDo 64 controller.

    Nintendo’s wireless N64 controller, introduced alongside N64 games on the Nintendo Switch Online platform, provides an authentic recreation of the original N64 hardware. Priced at $54.99, this controller offers a premium experience but is exclusive to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. For those looking to upgrade their existing wired controllers, 8BitDo’s $39.99 Mod Kit remains a viable option.

    The latest firmware update, version 1.2.0, not only introduces compatibility with the wireless N64 controller but also addresses issues like compatibility with 4K displays, audio clipping problems, and enhances the Library feature on the Analogue 3D. Players can now track their total playtime for each game in their collection, further enriching the gaming experience.

    Source: The Verge

  • NASA’s Artemis II Mission Faces Weather-Related Delays

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    NASA’s Artemis II Space Launch System (SLS) rocket is experiencing delays due to cold weather and windy conditions in Florida. The agency is now aiming for Monday, February 2nd for a wet dress rehearsal, with potential implications for setting the launch date. The originally planned launch opportunities on February 6th and 7th are no longer viable, shifting focus to Sunday, February 8th as the first potential window.

    The wet dress rehearsal, involving fueling the rocket and a simulated countdown, is crucial for testing emergency escape procedures and collecting data from the SLS. This rehearsal must be successfully completed before the Artemis II mission can proceed to launch next week.

    Artemis I, NASA’s previous mission, launched in 2022 to test the SLS rocket and Orion capsule. In contrast, Artemis II is set to carry four astronauts on a 10-day mission around the moon, paving the way for Artemis III, the first mission to land astronauts on the moon since 1972.

    Source: The Verge

  • Crackdown on Manga Piracy: Bato.to Network Shut Down

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Japan’s anti-piracy coalition has announced the shutdown of Bato.to, one of the largest manga piracy networks globally. This action followed a collaborative effort between Japanese publishers and Chinese authorities, resulting in the arrest of an individual suspected of copyright infringement related to Bato.to and around 60 associated sites.

    Bato.to, established in 2014, gained significant popularity as a platform for ‘scanalation,’ where manga and other comics are scanned, edited, translated, and shared within online communities. According to the Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA), the 60 closed sites collectively attracted 350 million visits in May 2025, with Bato.to generating substantial advertising revenue, reaching over 400,000 yuan per peak month.

    While the operator of Bato.to has been released on bail, formal charges are anticipated. This development underscores the ongoing battle against online piracy and the significance of copyright protection in the digital age.

    Source: The Verge

  • Microsoft Explores Customizable Top Menu Bar for Enhanced Windows 11 Experience

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Microsoft is considering introducing a customizable top menu bar for Windows 11, reminiscent of user interfaces found in Linux, macOS, and older Windows versions. Dubbed the “Command Palette Dock” by Microsoft, this optional UI feature aims to offer users quick access to tools, system resource monitoring, and more.

    According to Niels Laute, a senior product manager at Microsoft, the dock would be highly customizable, allowing users to position it on the top, left, right, or bottom edge of the screen. Additionally, extensions can be pinned to three distinct regions of the dock: start, center, and end.

    If implemented, the dock will provide easy access to system resources, tools, and other functionalities. Users will have the flexibility to alter the background, styling, theme, and rearrange extensions across different dock regions as needed.

    This potential addition complements Microsoft’s existing Command Palette launcher, which resembles Apple’s Spotlight in macOS. The Command Palette enables swift access to commands, applications, and development tools.

    Microsoft is currently seeking feedback on this proposal, and developers have the opportunity to experiment with an early version by importing a project from Microsoft’s PowerToys GitHub repository into Visual Studio.

    Source: The Verge

  • Apple Reports Record iPhone Sales in Q1 2026 Amid Supply Challenges

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Apple recently announced its record-breaking iPhone sales in Q1 2026, generating over $85.3 billion in revenue and achieving a total revenue of $143.8 billion, up 16% from the previous year. The company’s CEO, Tim Cook, highlighted the 23% year-over-year revenue growth in iPhone sales, attributing it to the popularity of the latest iPhone lineup.

    Despite delays related to an AI-enhanced Siri, the base iPhone 17 model incorporated advanced features previously exclusive to ‘Pro’ devices, such as an always-on display and a high refresh rate screen. Notably, reports of underperformance in iPhone Air sales did not significantly impact overall sales figures.

    Apple is facing supply constraints due to high demand for the iPhone 17, particularly in the availability of advanced chip manufacturing nodes. Additionally, while services revenue saw a 14% increase, Mac and wearable revenue experienced a decline.

    Looking ahead, Apple plans to introduce AI-driven personalization features to Siri, collaborating with Google to leverage an adapted version of Google’s Gemini AI model. Furthermore, Apple’s acquisition of the AI startup Q.ai aims to enhance its technological capabilities, although specific utilization plans remain undisclosed.

    Source: The Verge

  • Data Centers Drive Surge in Gas Power Plants Globally

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    The growing energy demands of data centers are fueling a global increase in the construction of gas power plants, with the United States leading this trend. According to a recent report by the nonprofit Global Energy Monitor (GEM), gas-fired power generation in development globally rose by 31 percent in 2025, with nearly a quarter of the added capacity allocated to the US. A significant portion of this growth is expected to directly support data centers, particularly those used for generative AI applications.

    The rapid expansion of data centers, driven by the need for more powerful hardware to support AI technologies, has raised concerns about the environmental impact of increased gas consumption. There are concerns that the construction of additional gas plants to meet the energy demands of AI could impede the transition to cleaner energy sources and potentially lead to stranded assets if the projected electricity demand from AI fails to materialize.

    Despite the environmental implications, the surge in gas power plant projects is on track to set new records in 2026, surpassing the previous peak in 2002. The shift towards gas as a primary power source over coal is attributed to its cost-effectiveness and relatively lower carbon emissions. However, it is essential to acknowledge that gas production releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

    Source: The Verge

  • Apple Acquires AI Startup Q.ai: Enhancing Seamless Interactions with Devices

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Apple has made its second-largest acquisition in history by acquiring Q.ai, a four-year-old AI audio startup, for a reported $2 billion. The acquisition brings innovative technology that focuses on ‘silent speech,’ enabling devices to interpret non-verbal cues through facial skin micro movements. These cues could enhance interactions with AI assistants, potentially integrated into Apple’s products like headphones, glasses, and other devices.

    The optical sensor technology developed by Q.ai holds promise for improving user experiences by allowing for whispered speech recognition, opening up new possibilities for seamless communication with AI systems. This move aligns with Apple’s commitment to advancing AI capabilities within its ecosystem, building upon previous acquisitions like PrimeSense, which powered FaceID technology in iPhones.

    Apple’s hardware executive highlighted the potential for this technology to seamlessly integrate into daily life, leveraging the expertise of Q.ai’s team and the support of Google Ventures. With this acquisition, Apple aims to further enhance its AI offerings, potentially transforming how users interact with their devices.

    Source: The Verge

  • Elon Musk’s SpaceX and xAI in Merger Talks: Implications for Space-Based Data Centers

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Elon Musk’s companies, SpaceX and xAI, are reportedly discussing a potential merger as SpaceX prepares for its upcoming IPO, according to The Verge. The merger discussions aim to support SpaceX’s ambitions to launch data centers into space, enhancing its space-based infrastructure capabilities.

    While the exact terms and timeline of the merger remain uncertain, SpaceX is contemplating an IPO around mid-June this year. Responses from both xAI and SpaceX regarding this potential merger are awaited.

    If the merger proceeds, it would bring SpaceX and xAI together, aligning them with Grok, a company currently facing scrutiny and an EU investigation related to sexualized deepfakes.

    This potential merger is part of a series of strategic moves among Elon Musk-led entities. Recently, Tesla, where Musk serves as CEO, announced an investment of around $2 billion in xAI. Additionally, xAI’s acquisition of X last year demonstrates its active involvement in expanding its portfolio.

    Source: The Verge

  • Waymo Expands Robotaxi Service to San Francisco Airport

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Waymo has announced the launch of its robotaxi service for travelers at the San Francisco International Airport (SFO). This move marks a significant step in Waymo’s expansion plans within the Bay Area.

    After prolonged negotiations with the airport’s management, Waymo secured a ‘Testing and Operations Pilot Permit’ with SFO in September 2025. This permit outlines a phased approach for the deployment of Waymo’s airport service, starting with vehicle testing with a human driver, progressing to driverless testing, and ultimately the initiation of commercial operations.

    Currently, Waymo’s access to SFO terminals is restricted, and pickups and drop-offs are designated at the airport’s Rental Car Center, connected to the terminals via the AirTrain. SFO spokesperson Doug Yakel emphasized the importance of starting at the rental car lot to ‘isolate’ Waymo’s robotaxis from the bustling passenger terminals, drawing similarities to the initial rollout at Phoenix’s airport. SFO may mandate adjustments based on Waymo’s performance during this phase of the pilot program.

    Waymo plans to gradually scale up the number of riders until anyone can hail a Waymo at the airport, a milestone anticipated to be achieved ‘in the coming months.’

    Source: The Verge

  • Developers Divided on Generative AI’s Impact in Gaming Industry

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    A recent survey conducted by the Game Developers Conference has revealed a divide among developers in the gaming industry regarding the impact of generative AI, often referred to as gen AI. The survey, which gathered responses from 2,300 game industry professionals, found that 52% of developers perceive gen AI as having a negative impact on the industry, while only 7% see it in a positive light.

    The negative sentiment towards gen AI has notably increased over the years, with just 18% of respondents viewing the technology negatively in 2024, a number that rose to 30% in 2025, and has now surpassed the halfway mark. Despite efforts to include diverse perspectives, the survey’s demographic skew towards primarily male, white, and US-based respondents indicates a need for broader industry representation.

    While industry leaders like EA and Krafton have acknowledged the capabilities of generative AI, the survey results reflect a more cautious stance among developers. About 36% of respondents reported using gen AI in their work, with the majority leveraging it for research, brainstorming, and administrative tasks. However, fewer developers apply the technology directly to player-facing features, focusing instead on prototyping, testing, debugging, and asset generation.

    The survey also shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by developers, including layoffs and studio closures, underscoring the complex landscape of the gaming industry amidst technological advancements.

    Source: The Verge

  • Spotify Expands In-App Messaging with Group Chat Feature

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Spotify is enhancing its in-app messaging capabilities by introducing a group chat feature, as reported by The Verge. This new functionality allows users to engage in conversations with up to 10 friends and family members about their latest music discoveries, podcasts, or audiobooks.

    The music streaming platform initially rolled out direct messaging last August, enabling users to share their current listening choices without exiting the app. Similar to one-on-one chats, individuals can only be added to group conversations if prior interactions have occurred through Spotify’s other features like Jam sessions, Collaborative Playlists, or Blends.

    Alongside the group chat update, Spotify also launched the Listening Activity feature on mobile devices earlier this month, providing insights into the music preferences of friends in real-time.

    To start a group chat, users can navigate to the Messages section within the app and select ‘Create group.’ From there, they can invite a maximum of 10 contacts to participate in the discussion. This messaging capability is accessible to both free and premium Spotify subscribers.

    Source: The Verge

  • Senator Elizabeth Warren Raises Concerns Over OpenAI’s Financial Stability Amid AI Industry Risks

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) has expressed concerns regarding OpenAI’s financial stability and potential government bailout. In a letter to CEO Sam Altman, Warren highlighted worries about the company’s significant spending without profitability, cautioning against the risk of privatizing profits and socializing losses. She emphasized concerns about OpenAI’s trillion-dollar spending commitments and speculated on potential government assistance in case of financial strain.

    Warren pointed out the interconnectedness of OpenAI’s financial partnerships and spending patterns, warning of broader economic implications for the US if the AI industry faces challenges. While OpenAI has denied seeking government guarantees, Warren suggested that industry-wide support could indirectly benefit the company due to its financial scale and commitments.

    Despite past discussions about government assistance, OpenAI remains firm in rejecting specific bailout requests. CFO Sarah Friar’s earlier remarks about taxpayer support were swiftly clarified, with Altman reinforcing the company’s stance against government guarantees for datacenters. However, Warren remains skeptical, highlighting the potential benefits OpenAI could gain from broader industry support.

    Source: The Verge

  • Nothing Forgoes Phone 4 Launch in 2026, Focuses on Meaningful Upgrades for 4A Series

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Nothing CEO Carl Pei has officially announced that the Phone 4 will not be released in 2026. In a recent video, Pei emphasized a shift away from the industry norm of yearly flagship releases, stating, ‘We’re not just going to churn out a new flagship every year for the sake of it, we want every upgrade to feel significant.’

    Instead, Nothing is gearing up to introduce the midrange Phone 4A series. Pei hinted at substantial improvements across various aspects, including display, camera, and overall performance, promising a closer-to-flagship experience compared to the 3A series. While specifics were sparse, Pei did mention the use of premium materials and ‘bold new experimentation in terms of color’ for the upcoming devices.

    This strategic decision by Nothing to forgo the Phone 4 release and focus on enhancing the Phone 4A series underscores the brand’s commitment to delivering meaningful technological advancements rather than adhering to traditional industry practices. By prioritizing innovation and quality over frequent product launches, Nothing aims to set itself apart in a crowded market.

    Source: The Verge

  • Waymo Robotaxi Incident Sparks NHTSA Investigation into Autonomous Vehicle Safety in School Zones

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Following an incident where a Waymo robotaxi struck a child near an elementary school in Santa Monica, California, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an investigation into the safety of autonomous systems in school zones. The collision resulted in minor injuries to the child and raised questions about the effectiveness of Waymo’s technology in crowded environments.

    On January 23rd, the Waymo vehicle was traveling at 17 mph when it detected the child and braked, reducing its speed to 6 mph before the impact occurred. Waymo claims that its autonomous system’s quick reaction likely mitigated more severe injuries. In response to the incident, NHTSA will assess whether the vehicle exercised appropriate caution considering the school’s proximity and the presence of young pedestrians.

    The investigation will focus on Waymo’s behavior in school zones, particularly during busy drop-off and pick-up times. NHTSA will also evaluate the vehicle’s adherence to speed limits and its interaction with vulnerable road users. Waymo emphasized that a human driver in a similar scenario would have made contact with the pedestrian at a higher speed, underscoring the potential safety benefits of autonomous driving technology.

    Source: The Verge

  • Apple’s Subscription Billing Mandate Impacts Patreon Creators: A Transition Ahead

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    In a move to comply with Apple’s subscription billing policy, Patreon has announced a transition away from legacy billing methods, affecting 4% of its creators who still use first-of-the-month and per-creation models. Apple’s deadline for creators to switch to subscription billing by November 1, 2026, is a result of the company’s revived subscriptions mandate. Patreon will automatically transition creators who do not switch manually by the deadline.

    This decision echoes a previous attempt by Apple in 2024, which was later retracted following the Epic Games v. Apple ruling. Despite the option for iOS users to join via mobile web to avoid Apple’s 30% fees, subscription billing remains the only method supporting Apple’s in-app purchase system.

    Patreon expressed concerns about the need for consistency and clarity for creators to build sustainable businesses. The abrupt policy changes have caused disruptions for creators using legacy billing methods, marking the third reversal from Apple within the past 18 months.

    We await Apple’s response to this development.

    Source: The Verge

  • Google Disables Take a Message Feature on Older Pixel Phones Due to Audio Leak Bug

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google has taken action to address a bug affecting some older Pixel devices by disabling certain Phone app features. The issue, which resulted in audio leakage to callers, has been linked to the Take a Message feature introduced last year on Pixel 4 and 5 phones. This feature automatically answers and transcribes voicemails when users miss a call.

    According to a statement from Google community manager Siri Tejaswini, the bug affects a very small subset of Pixel 4 and 5 devices under specific circumstances. As a precautionary measure, Google is temporarily disabling the Take a Message and next-gen Call Screen features on these devices.

    One Reddit user reported that their microphone activated unexpectedly, allowing callers to hear ambient sounds while leaving a voicemail. This behavior was triggered by the Take a Message feature, causing concern among affected users.

    Google has not confirmed whether these features will be permanently removed or reinstated in the future. In the meantime, impacted Pixel owners can utilize manual and automatic Call Screening options or resort to their carrier’s voicemail services.

    Source: The Verge

  • Tesla Faces Second Consecutive Year of Declining Revenue Amid Global EV Market Growth

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Tesla has recently disclosed its second consecutive year of declining revenue and profits, posing challenges as the company aims to position itself as a leader in AI and robotics. Despite these setbacks, the global electric vehicle (EV) market continues to expand, with Tesla facing increasing competition from companies like China’s BYD.

    In its latest financial report, Tesla revealed a 3% decrease in revenue and a significant 61% plunge in profits for the quarter ending in December 2025. This contrasts with the $2.3 billion in net income Tesla reported in the same period a year earlier. Although Tesla surpassed Wall Street’s revenue expectations, the company’s yearly net income of $3.8 billion on $94.8 billion in revenue marked a 3% decline from the previous year.

    Despite Tesla’s decline, the global EV market saw a 20% growth in 2025, although projections suggest a potential slowdown in 2026. This growth has been influenced by various factors, including policy changes and fluctuations in market incentives.

    Source: The Verge

  • Microsoft’s Cloud Dominance Shines as Gaming Revenue Declines in Q2

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Microsoft recently unveiled its financial performance for the second quarter of the 2026 fiscal year, showcasing remarkable growth in revenue and net income. The tech giant achieved a revenue of $81.3 billion and a net income of $30.9 billion during Q3, marking a 17% and 23% increase respectively.

    The surge in PC shipments during the holiday season, attributed to the ongoing RAM shortage and the end of Windows 10 support, has significantly impacted Microsoft’s Windows OEM and devices revenue. While Windows OEM revenue experienced a 5% boost due to upgrades during the Windows 10 end-of-life phase, the devices revenue witnessed a decline as Surface revenue and Windows OEM revenue were consolidated.

    Furthermore, Windows 11 reached a significant milestone with 1 billion users, growing by 45% year-over-year. The transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 has been expedited by the end of Windows 10 support, facilitating the rapid adoption of the new operating system.

    Despite the absence of new Surface devices in the recent quarter, Microsoft’s Xbox hardware revenue continues to decline for the third consecutive fiscal year. The downward trend in Xbox hardware revenue, decreasing by 32% year-over-year, is expected to persist throughout fiscal 2026.

    Source: The Verge

  • Tesla Unveils Production-Ready Optimus Robot: Key Details for Tech Enthusiasts

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Tesla has announced in its earnings report that the third-generation version of its Optimus humanoid robot, designed for mass production, is set to be revealed in the first quarter of 2026. This new iteration of Optimus will feature significant upgrades from its predecessor, version 2.5, incorporating Tesla’s latest hand design. The company is gearing up for the launch of the first production line, slated to commence before the end of 2026, with plans to eventually produce 1 million robots per year. While Elon Musk had previously forecasted the production of 5,000 robots in 2025, it seems this target was not met.

    During an earnings call, Musk mentioned Tesla’s intention to halt the production of its Model S and Model X vehicles in the second quarter of 2026 to make way for Optimus at its Fremont factory. Musk envisions Optimus not only working in Tesla’s facilities but also serving as home assistants and potentially even as surgeons. The company plans to start selling Optimus to the public next year, aligning with its increasing reliance on humanoid robots from a financial standpoint.

    Source: The Verge