Spending by large data center companies on AI technology is predicted to reach around $610 billion. This is nearly three times what they spent two years ago, highlighting the growing costs involved in advancing AI.
Key Facts
Spending on AI by major data center companies is expected to be $610 billion.
This amount is about three times what was spent two years ago.
The term "hyperscalers" refers to large data center companies leading in AI development.
AI technology requires significant investment for infrastructure and development.
The increase in spending shows the rising expenses in building and advancing AI systems.
A report from the children's commissioner for England found that children regularly see online ads for weight loss products, despite such advertising being banned. The report calls for stricter regulations and suggests changes to the Online Safety Act to better protect kids. Tech firms are encouraged to be more accountable and to stop showing these ads to children.
Key Facts
Children are frequently exposed to ads for weight loss products online.
The advertising of these products to children is currently banned.
The report was based on a survey of 2,000 children aged 13-17.
The report suggests changes to the Online Safety Act to enhance children's protection online.
Ofcom, the media regulator in the UK, enforces the Online Safety Act.
There's a recommendation to amend Ofcom's Children's Code to better shield children from harmful content.
The report calls for stronger regulation and enforcement against online sales of products restricted by age.
A national consultation is considering further protective measures, like banning social media for children under 16.
Footage from a doorbell camera at Nancy Guthrie’s home was recovered by Google, raising privacy concerns about data retention. The footage shows a masked, armed person tampering with the camera, despite Guthrie not having a service plan to save video clips. This case highlights issues around how long companies keep data and how they can access it.
Key Facts
Nancy Guthrie, 84, is missing, last seen at her home in Tucson, Arizona.
Video footage of a masked, armed person was recovered from her doorbell camera.
The camera footage was retrieved without Guthrie having a paid Nest subscription.
Google engineers helped recover the footage from back-end systems.
The video showed tampering with the camera on the night of Guthrie’s disappearance.
Concerns are raised about companies retaining consumer data long-term.
Google's privacy policy indicates videos can be captured even if a device is offline.
A mother taught her daughter's boyfriend Spanish using a Ring doorbell camera, and the interaction became popular on TikTok. The boyfriend hesitated to enter until he understood the Spanish instructions, which TikTok users found polite and respectful.
Key Facts
A mother used a Ring doorbell camera to teach her daughter's boyfriend Spanish.
The boyfriend was referred to as "Goober" and corrected his Spanish greeting at the door.
The mother gave instructions in Spanish, and the boyfriend wanted to ensure he understood correctly before entering.
The video became popular on TikTok, with many users commenting on the boyfriend's politeness.
The boyfriend's own mother commented on the video, expressing her appreciation and fondness for the nickname "Goober."
Similar videos on TikTok show families interacting humorously or teaching lessons to new boyfriends.
Newsweek has reached out to the TikTok user who posted the video for more information but has not verified all details.
The article discusses how computer companies, like HP, are moving towards subscription models for their laptops, prompting concerns among users about device ownership and pricing. Some users and critics express worries about losing control and increasing costs, as these subscription plans could replace traditional one-time purchases.
Key Facts
HP is testing a subscription model for laptops, similar to smartphone upgrade plans.
Users pay monthly fees for laptops instead of a large upfront cost, with options to upgrade models.
Critics are concerned about losing ownership and potential remote lockouts if payments stop.
A TikTok user highlighted these concerns, and his video gained significant attention.
Subscription models may include additional services like support and connectivity.
Critics compare the model to historical feudal systems where users depend on companies for computing access.
Some individuals believe this model threatens privacy and control over personal data.
The stock market is reacting negatively to large spending on artificial intelligence (AI) by major tech companies. This has led to a decrease in the stock values of companies like Nvidia and Amazon, as well as other software companies. Investors are uncertain about whether AI investments will pay off and how AI will impact existing business models.
Key Facts
Nvidia's stock value dropped by around 17% since October, reaching a low point by February 5.
Technology sector stocks lost about $1 trillion in value starting late January, with significant impacts in early February.
Amazon's stock fell nearly 10% after announcing $200 billion in planned spending for 2026, higher than what Wall Street predicted.
Four tech giants—Alphabet, Meta, Amazon, and Microsoft—plan to spend about $650 billion on AI infrastructure in 2026.
Oracle's stock value halved after taking on significant long-term leasing commitments for data centers.
The release of Anthropic's AI plugins for automating complex tasks led to notable stock declines in software companies like Asana, Docusign, and ServiceNow.
There is growing concern that AI could threaten existing software companies by providing similar services at lower costs.
Investors are confused and worried due to uncertainty about who will succeed in the AI-driven technological shift.
Jay Shetty talks about his new Audible series called "Messy Love" and how it provides a new angle compared to his podcast, "On Purpose." He explains that "Messy Love" involves real couples sharing their experiences, offering insight into genuine relationship challenges.
Key Facts
Jay Shetty is launching a new series on Audible called "Messy Love."
The series features real couples discussing their relationship challenges.
"Messy Love" differs from Shetty's podcast "On Purpose," which focuses on interviews with experts and celebrities.
The goal of "Messy Love" is to make people feel understood and to build compassion.
Shetty emphasizes sharing experiences without projecting them onto others.
He believes people can always learn something new from their loved ones.
The episode explores the latest in smart technology, focusing on smart glasses and innovative uses of technology in everyday items like Lego bricks. It also discusses AI development for lesser-known languages.
Key Facts
The episode discusses whether smart glasses will become popular this year.
Alasdair Keane tests various new wearable technologies, including smart glasses.
Lego has incorporated technology like lights and sensors into its traditional bricks.
Shiona McCallum examines the new tech-enhanced Lego.
A Hong Kong tech company is working on artificial intelligence for underrepresented languages, starting with Cantonese.
The episode is presented by Shiona McCallum and produced by Tom Quinn.
Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, is shown wearing smart glasses in an image associated with the episode.
Apple is expanding its digital driver's license feature to seven more U.S. states, allowing residents to store their licenses in the Apple Wallet app. This will bring the total number of states offering this option to at least 20, plus Puerto Rico. The digital IDs are accepted at many U.S. airports but not by law enforcement.
Key Facts
Apple announced seven more states—Connecticut, Kentucky, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Utah, Arkansas, and Virginia—will support digital driver's licenses.
This update will increase the total to 20 states, plus Puerto Rico.
The digital ID feature began in 2022 and lets users store government-issued IDs on Apple devices.
Digital IDs can be used at TSA checkpoints but aren't accepted by law enforcement as a replacement for physical licenses.
Currently, 13 states and Puerto Rico offer digital driver's licenses.
TSA accepts digital IDs at over 250 U.S. airports for domestic travel.
To add a license, users must complete identity verification steps in the Apple Wallet app.
Apple's separate Digital ID option for passports is also available for domestic travel at TSA checkpoints.
Newsweek is hosting a webinar about balancing innovation and risk in artificial intelligence (AI). The event will discuss how companies can use AI while managing safety concerns. Experts from various fields will share insights on effective AI governance.
Key Facts
Newsweek's webinar is titled "AI Governance: Balancing Innovation and Risk."
The webinar is scheduled for February 24 at 1 p.m. ET.
Experts from academia, law, and risk management will speak at the event.
Professor Suraj Srinivasan highlights the challenge of maximizing AI use while ensuring safety and governance.
There is a focus on implementing AI in areas with low perceived risk.
The article uses an analogy comparing the need for good AI governance to having good brakes on a fast car.
Problems like risk and privacy concerns are critical to AI adoption and governance.
The discussion includes how AI affects customers, employees, and decision-making.
A new technology called Emergency Autoland (EAL) allows the HondaJet Elite II to land automatically if the pilot is unable to do so. Currently, this feature is only available in the United States. The system uses Garmin's avionics equipment and has been certified by the FAA for safe use.
Key Facts
HondaJet Elite II can land itself using Emergency Autoland (EAL) technology.
Garmin provides the automated avionics equipment for this system.
The self-landing feature is only available in the United States.
The system gets activated automatically if the pilot is incapacitated or when passengers press a button.
It chooses the best airport for landing based on various factors and communicates with air traffic control.
The FAA has certified the system for use in the U.S. after extensive testing.
EAL does not use artificial intelligence and works differently from car technology like Honda Sensing.
Honda plans to seek certifications for this technology in other countries.
Apple and Google have agreed to change their app stores in the UK after the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) claimed they had too much control, or a "duopoly". The companies will not favor their own apps and will be clearer about how other apps are approved. They will also not misuse data from other app developers.
Key Facts
Apple and Google are making changes to their app stores in the UK following concerns from the CMA.
The CMA said the companies have an "effective duopoly", meaning they dominate the app market.
Apple and Google agreed not to favor their own apps and to be transparent about the approval process for other apps.
The companies will also not use data from other app developers unfairly.
Apple and Google agreed to these changes as immediate commitments to address competition concerns.
The UK app economy is the largest in Europe, supporting about 400,000 jobs.
The CMA will monitor these changes and can require more changes if needed.
Apple and Google have expressed willingness to work with the CMA on these changes.
A study from the University of Colorado suggests that the sweetener erythritol may increase the risk of stroke by damaging blood vessel cells in the brain. This research adds to earlier findings linking high erythritol levels with cardiovascular risks. Erythritol is a common sugar substitute in many diet foods and drinks.
Key Facts
Erythritol is a low-calorie sweetener found in many diet products.
"Doctor Who" will return with a Christmas special after Disney ended its involvement with the series. The BBC is committed to keeping the show running, even without Disney's financial support. Billie Piper's surprise appearance as a new character has sparked curiosity about the show's future direction.
Key Facts
"Doctor Who" is a long-running British science fiction show.
Disney, which helped fund the show for two seasons, is no longer involved.
The BBC plans to continue producing "Doctor Who" despite losing Disney's support.
A Christmas special written by Russell T Davies is set to air this year.
Ncuti Gatwa's role as the Fifteenth Doctor ended with a May 2025 episode.
Billie Piper appeared as a new character, sparking speculation about the next Doctor.
"Doctor Who" started in 1963 and was successfully relaunched in 2005.
The CEOs of AI companies, OpenAI and Anthropic, are engaging in public disputes over their business approaches, particularly regarding advertising strategies and use of AI technology. These disagreements coincide with increased competition in the AI field and disagreements on how AI companies should operate. The conflicts highlight differing views among AI leaders on innovation and market strategies.
Key Facts
CEOs from OpenAI and Anthropic are publicly criticizing each other.
Anthropic announced its AI model, Claude, will be ad-free and criticized OpenAI for using ads in ChatGPT.
OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, responded to Anthropic's ad with a critical online post.
Rumors suggest OpenAI is seeking alternatives to Nvidia's chips following investment disagreements.
Elon Musk, co-founder of OpenAI, is suing Altman for changing OpenAI’s original goals and market practices.
AI CEOs generally fall into two groups: those focused on research and those focused on entrepreneurial speed.
OpenAI and Google CEOs both say AI may eventually be better at running companies.
The competition between AI companies is as much about differing belief systems as it is about business.
A TikTok user shared a simple way to reduce skin irritation from wearing a CPAP mask by using a satin scrunchie cut in half over the mask's straps. This method helps prevent irritation people often experience from the tight straps on their skin. The idea has gained popularity, with many expressing interest in trying it to improve comfort during sleep.
Key Facts
A woman on TikTok uses a satin scrunchie to protect skin while wearing a CPAP mask.
Cutting the scrunchie in half creates a softer barrier on the mask straps.
CPAP machines are used to treat sleep apnea, a condition that interrupts breathing during sleep.
Skin irritation from CPAP masks is a common issue for users.
Satin reduces friction on skin, helping to prevent irritation.
Many TikTok users have responded positively to this idea, seeing it as clever.
Other products like mask covers and CPAP wipes are also used to minimize irritation.
Consistent use of CPAP machines is important for treating sleep apnea and reducing health risks.
The article discusses how increasing prices of computer memory and tariffs on semiconductor imports have led to a rise in the cost of PCs. It explains that a small company, Framework, had to raise their laptop prices due to these changes, which are partly influenced by President Trump's tariff policies and increased demand from AI infrastructure.
Key Facts
Framework, a company selling laptops, raised prices because the cost of memory rose significantly.
President Trump announced tariffs on imported chips, which may increase prices for consumers.
The Consumer Technology Association estimates these tariffs could reduce consumer purchasing power by up to $143 billion.
Memory chip prices are predicted to rise sharply, potentially doubling in early 2026.
Big tech companies are spending more on memory because of higher prices, impacting their budgets.
Micron, a memory producer, decided to stop selling consumer memory products to focus on larger business customers.
Tariffs add costs and complexity to the production and sales of technology products.
Apple is expected to launch the new iPhone 17e around February 19. This phone will include upgrades like MagSafe charging and a faster chip but keep a similar design to the iPhone 16e.
Key Facts
Apple plans to announce the iPhone 17e in mid-February.
The iPhone 17e will support MagSafe wireless charging up to 25W.
It will have a faster A19 chip, replacing the A18 used previously.
An improved second-generation C1X modem is expected in the phone.
The phone's design, including a 6.1-inch OLED display, will remain mostly the same.
Pricing details are not confirmed, but the previous model started at $599.
The potential launch date aligns with Apple's trend of releasing entry-level models in the spring.
Discord plans to change its age verification policy in March to improve security. Users need to prove they are adults, which has led to concerns about privacy and security. Many users are upset because a previous data breach exposed sensitive information.
Key Facts
Discord will implement an age verification system starting in March.
Accounts without adult proof will default to a "teen-appropriate" experience.
This change follows a breach that exposed about 70,000 users' government ID images.
Discord plans to use an "age inference model" that analyzes account data without reading private messages.
Users may need to verify age through a selfie or a government ID.
Discord users in the UK and Australia have experienced similar age checks due to national rules.
There are concerns about data privacy despite Discord's promise to delete verification documents.
The data breach in 2025 targeted a third-party vendor, leading to security concerns among users.
A new video game called "Relooted" allows players to imagine reclaiming African treasures taken during colonial times. The game, developed in South Africa, is an action game involving characters breaking into museums to retrieve cultural artefacts. It targets players globally, especially the African diaspora.
Key Facts
"Relooted" is an African-futurist video game about reclaiming looted artefacts.
The story is set in 2099, with museums avoiding returning stolen treasures.
Players follow characters using skills like parkour and hacking to retrieve artefacts.
The game was developed by Nyamakop studio, a South African team.
It is available on PCs and gaming consoles, designed mainly for audiences outside Africa.
The game's creation was inspired by a visit to the British Museum by the CEO’s mother.
The game uses advanced technology like motion capture and animated cinematics.
Designers and voice actors from several African countries contributed to the game.
