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TechnologyArs Technica ·
This is the world's most advanced robotic servicing satellite—that we know about
"These are things that tend to be really hard."
Technology
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TechnologyTechCrunch ·
Rivian files lawsuit against US government seeking refund of Trump tariffs
Electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian has filed a lawsuit against the US government demanding a full refund of tariffs imposed during the Trump administration. The company claims it is owed a refund amounting to tens of millions of dollars. The legal action reflects growing corporate pushback against trade policies that significantly raised costs for businesses reliant on imported components. Rivian's lawsuit marks one of the more prominent legal challenges by an automaker against these tariff measures.
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TechnologyThe Verge ·
Tesla door handle safety complaints may trigger new rules for all automakers
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has decided not to open a defect investigation into Tesla's electronic door handles, which have been linked to multiple deaths. Instead, the agency announced it plans to pursue broader rulemaking that would require all new vehicles to have a reliable and clearly accessible door exit system. Tesla's flush, electronically operated door handles have raised concerns about occupants being unable to escape in emergencies. If the proposed regulation is finalized, it would apply industrywide, not just to Tesla. The announcement was published in an official NHTSA notice in November 2025.
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TechnologyTechCrunch ·
Bluesky's AI assistant Attie now searches news and trends across AT Protocol apps
Bluesky's AI assistant, Attie, has expanded its capabilities to function as an open social research tool. Users can now query Attie for information on news, trends, and ongoing conversations within Bluesky. The tool's reach has also extended beyond Bluesky to cover other applications built on the AT Protocol. This expansion positions Attie as a broader research utility across the decentralized social ecosystem powered by the protocol.
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TechnologyThe Verge ·
Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 drops to $559 at Best Buy for one day only
Best Buy is offering a one-day discount on the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 (2025), bringing its price down from $749 to $559. The 2-in-1 Chromebook features a MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 processor, 12GB of RAM, 256GB of UFS storage, and a 14-inch 1920x1200 120Hz IPS touchscreen that folds flat for tablet use. A reviewer praised the device's Arm-based processor performance and its battery life that lasts more than a day on a single charge. For those seeking more RAM, an OLED display, and fingerprint support, the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 is also discounted at Best Buy, from $999 to $649.
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TechnologyTechCrunch ·
Midjourney Acquires Astrology App Co-Star in Expansion Beyond Image Generation
AI image generation company Midjourney has acquired Co-Star, a popular astrology app. The move signals Midjourney's intent to expand its business beyond its core image and video generation capabilities. The acquisition marks a notable strategic shift for the AI lab into consumer lifestyle applications. Further details about the deal terms or timeline have not been disclosed in the available reporting.
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TechnologyThe Verge ·
Boox Announces Picco, a Tiny MagSafe-Compatible E-Reader to Rival Xteink
Boox has confirmed it is developing a new compact e-reader called the Picco, part of an upcoming product lineup called Tile. The device will feature a 3.97-inch front-lit black-and-white e-paper display and expandable storage via an SD card slot. The Picco is designed to compete with Xteink's small-form-factor e-readers, which are popular for their ability to attach to iPhones via MagSafe. Boox told The Verge the Picco will be offered at an accessible price point, though specific pricing, full specs, and a release date have not yet been announced.
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TechnologyThe Verge ·
Trump Launches $5B AI Science Grants, Adviser Pitches 'New Golden Age' Vision
The Trump administration announced its first 'Genesis Mission' grants on Thursday, allocating $5 billion to hundreds of AI-focused scientific projects. The White House compared the initiative in scale and urgency to the Manhattan Project. Simultaneously, Trump's science adviser Michael Kratsios addressed lawmakers on Capitol Hill, promoting a vision he called 'A New Golden Age' of American science. Kratsios outlined priorities centered on artificial intelligence, robotics, and nuclear energy, while signaling a reduced emphasis on life sciences. Together, the two announcements reveal the administration's broader strategy for reshaping the direction of U.S. scientific research.
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TechnologyArs Technica ·
Relativity Space Plans Second Rocket Factory Near Cape Canaveral
Relativity Space has announced plans to establish a second rocket manufacturing facility near Cape Canaveral, Florida. The new factory would expand the company's production capabilities in a region already central to US launch operations. Cape Canaveral serves as a major hub for commercial and government rocket launches, making it a strategic location for rocket manufacturers. The move signals Relativity Space's intent to scale up its operations and increase its presence in the competitive commercial space industry.
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TechnologyThe Verge ·
Verge's Optimizer Newsletter Explores a Day's Worth of Personal Tracking Data
The Verge's senior reviewer Victoria Song writes a weekly newsletter called Optimizer, which covers the latest health gadgets and wellness trends. In her latest edition, Song draws a parallel between popular 'What I eat in a day' social media videos and personal data tracking habits. She notes that such videos, while sometimes fabricated for social media clout, can reveal how people perceive healthy living. The newsletter is set to take a two-week break before returning on Wednesdays starting August 12th.
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TechnologyArs Technica ·
EPA May Let States Limit Public Input on Data Center Permits
The Trump administration's EPA is considering a rule that would give states the authority to determine how much public participation, if any, is allowed in permitting decisions for new data centers. The move comes as artificial intelligence companies push aggressively to expand their data center infrastructure across the United States. Critics are concerned the change could effectively silence local communities who want a voice in decisions about facilities being built near their homes. The proposed rule represents a significant shift in how environmental permitting processes have traditionally incorporated public comment. The policy change would benefit tech firms seeking faster approvals for energy-intensive AI infrastructure projects.
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TechnologyTechCrunch ·
OpenAI Brings Advanced Voice Mode to ChatGPT Desktop App
OpenAI has expanded its Voice Mode feature to the ChatGPT desktop application. The update enables users to interact with ChatGPT using voice commands directly from their computers. The voice functionality is compatible with both ChatGPT Work and Codex, allowing users to complete tasks and control AI agents hands-free. This integration marks a broader push by OpenAI to make voice-based interaction a core part of the ChatGPT experience across platforms.
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TechnologyTechCrunch ·
Facebook Launches Seller App for Frequent Marketplace Vendors With Free Verification
Facebook has introduced a dedicated app called Seller, designed specifically for users who regularly list and sell items on its Marketplace platform. The app targets frequent sellers who need a more streamlined experience than the standard Marketplace interface. Alongside the app, Facebook is also rolling out a free verification system for sellers. The verification feature appears aimed at building greater trust between buyers and sellers on the platform.
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TechnologyBBC Tech ·
Seattle Raccoon Named Jimothy Goes Viral After Instagram Video
A raccoon named Jimothy has become a widespread internet meme originating from a video posted on Instagram by Seattle resident Kiana Hall. The clip, initially shared without any expectation of viral attention, quickly spread across social media platforms. Jimothy's distinctive appearance or behavior captured the imagination of online users, spawning countless memes and reactions. The raccoon's unexpected fame highlights how ordinary moments shared on social media can rapidly escalate into major internet phenomena.
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TechnologyThe Verge ·
Odyssey Robot's US Drone HQ Found to Be an Empty Office in Pasadena
Odyssey Robot, a startup presenting itself as a US drone manufacturer, lists its headquarters at a coworking space in Pasadena, California. A visit to the listed office, Room 18, revealed a nearly empty room with just three desks and chairs but no computers, chargers, or signs of active use. The company has positioned itself as an American drone company, likely to appeal to government or defense procurement preferences. The findings raise questions about the legitimacy and operational capacity of the firm. The Verge investigated the physical premises as part of broader scrutiny into the company's claims.
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TechnologyThe Verge ·
EU warns TikTok that child safety settings must be on by default
The European Commission has issued preliminary findings against TikTok under the Digital Services Act, citing inadequate protections for underage users. Regulators say TikTok should automatically restrict minors' public accounts so their content is only visible to chosen contacts and not recommended to other users. The Commission also noted that even private accounts remain easily discoverable through other users' following lists. The EU is pressing TikTok to make these safety measures default rather than opt-in features.
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TechnologyArs Technica ·
US Snake Robots Deployed in Venezuela to Search Earthquake Rubble
US robotics researchers traveled to Venezuela following an earthquake that caused buildings to collapse and trapped survivors. The team brought snake-like robots designed to navigate through rubble and debris in search of victims. The deployment came after researchers received a call requesting assistance with search and rescue efforts. Snake robots are particularly suited for disaster response due to their ability to maneuver through tight, unstable spaces where humans and traditional equipment cannot reach.
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TechnologyNYT Technology ·
Meta Launches Standalone Marketplace App 'Seller' for Facebook
Meta has introduced a new standalone app called Seller, designed to support buying and selling activity on Facebook. The app is part of Meta's broader strategy to innovate and expand the functionality of its original social network. Seller appears to be a dedicated spin-off of Facebook Marketplace, giving users a more focused platform for commerce. The move reflects Meta's ongoing efforts to deepen engagement and find new use cases within its core Facebook product.
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TechnologyNYT Technology ·
OpenAI Models Go Rogue + Kimi K3 Freakout + A.I. Superforecasting
“The story that we’re talking about in this segment was science fiction until Tuesday, OK?”
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TechnologyThe Verge ·
Facebook to test TikTok-style full-screen video feed to retain users
Facebook is planning a major redesign aimed at preventing users from migrating to rival platforms like TikTok. The platform's head, Tom Alison, announced that Facebook will begin testing a 'reimagined experience' that launches users directly into a full-screen video feed upon opening the app. Meta has not revealed visuals of the new interface, but confirmed the rollout will initially target countries with strong video consumption habits. A broader expansion to the United States is being considered for the following year.
