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  • Apply to take the stage at Founder Summit 2026 | TechCrunch

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    If you’ve built, backed, or operated inside high-growth startups, your experience could shape how the next wave of founders scales.

    On June 9 in Boston, TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026 will bring together 1,000+ founders and investors for a focused day on the realities of growth. We’re inviting seasoned founders, VCs, and startup operators to lead interactive roundtable discussions rooted in real-world execution — the wins, the missteps, and the lessons that only come from doing the work.

    Submit your topic by April 17 to be considered. Learn more and apply today.

    Image Credits:Halo Creative

    Spark real conversation by leading a roundtable or breakout

    Whether you lead an interactive roundtable or a Q&A-style breakout, every session at Founder Summit is built for depth. Each is a 30-minute, discussion-driven conversation led by two to four speakers, depending on format. No slides. No polished decks. Just candid insight and practical takeaways founders can apply immediately.

    If you’ve scaled revenue from zero to $50 million, navigated a difficult fundraise, rebuilt a team after hypergrowth, expanded internationally, or redefined your go-to-market strategy, this is the room to share what actually works.

    TechCrunch Founder Summit breakout audience
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    Strengthen your authority in the ecosystem

    Speaking at TC Founder Summit gives you:

    • Direct access to 1,000+ ambitious founders and active investors.
    • Premium entry to the full event experience.
    • Meaningful brand and authority positioning within the startup ecosystem.

    TechCrunch will also amplify your participation through agenda placement, editorial inclusion on TechCrunch.com, and social promotion across its channels.

    Techcrunch event

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    June 9, 2026

    Applications close April 17

    TC Founder Summit takes place on June 9, and speaker selections are made well ahead of the event. If you have scaling insight founders need to hear, now is the time to submit your topic. Have more than one strong idea? Submit them all.

    Lead the conversation. Share what you’ve learned. Help founders build smarter. Submit to speak before the April 17 deadline.

    TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026, June 9, 2026

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  • Hisense hits one million sales of Freely-integrated TVs – Tech Digest

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    Hisense has announced a major UK milestone, surpassing one million sales of its televisions equipped with subscription-free streaming service Freely.

    The manufacturer claims this achievement cements its position as a dominant force in the British market, where it recently became the second-largest TV brand by volume.

    As the first manufacturer to partner with Freely in 2024, Hisense has integrated the service across its entire 4K lineup. The platform has proved a significant draw for consumers looking to move away from traditional infrastructure, offering over 60 live channels and 75,000 hours of on-demand content from the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5 without the need for a satellite dish or aerial.

    “Our partnership with Freely has played a key role in ensuring our range meets the needs of today’s consumers,” said Howard Grindrod, Vice President at Hisense UK. He noted that the milestone comes at a pivotal time as the brand prepares for a massive summer of sports, bolstered by its status as an Official Sponsor of the FIFA World Cup 26.

    The sales success also coincides with Hisense’s continued push into high-end display tech. The company recently became the first to bring RGB MiniLED technology to the UK market. Unlike standard displays, this system uses independently controlled red, green, and blue diodes to generate colour at the source.

    Jonathan Thompson, CEO of Everyone TV – the organization behind Freely – hailed the collaboration as a victory for British broadcasting. He noted that growth is accelerating as viewers discover the simplicity of Wi-Fi-only television.

    With the 2026 World Cup set to be streamed live on the platform, both partners expect the momentum to continue as many households now favour “all-in-one” streaming solutions over traditional broadcast methods.


    For latest tech stories go to TechDigest.tv


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  • Your phone is now a crime scene in your pocket

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    NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

    Take a second and look at your phone. It knows where you slept last night. Who you texted. What you searched. Where you drove.

    For investigators, that information can turn into evidence fast. In fact, a major new survey found smartphones now show up in almost every criminal investigation.

    In other words, your phone can become the primary crime scene. And that should get your attention.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

    Detectives say smartphones act as “a crime scene in your pocket,” storing messages, GPS history and payment records. (Anna Barclay/Getty Images)

    Why smartphones have become the center of crime investigations

    Your phone is always with you. It logs:

    • Text messages and chats
    • Photos and videos
    • GPS location history
    • App activity
    • Call logs
    • Payment records

    According to the 2026 Industry Trends Report from Cellebrite, a digital forensics company that provides tools to law enforcement and investigators, smartphones are now the most cited source of digital evidence in criminal cases at 97%. The report shows that mobile data can reveal where a person has been, who they communicate with and patterns of daily life.

    For that reason, many in law enforcement now describe the smartphone as “a crime scene in your pocket” to illustrate how deeply these devices factor into investigations. That phrase may sound dramatic. It is not. It reflects how investigations now unfold in the U.S. and around the world. In many criminal cases, phone data regularly helps:

    • Reconstruct timelines using cell site and GPS data
    • Place suspects near crime scenes
    • Confirm or contradict alibis
    • Recover deleted messages
    • Track digital payments

    Police agencies have testified in court that smartphone extractions help establish sequences of events faster than traditional methods. Modern policing no longer relies only on fingerprints and surveillance footage. It often begins with digital footprints.

    Real cases where phone data made the difference

    This is happening in courtrooms right now. Case in point, in the prosecutions tied to the Gilgo Beach serial killings in New York, investigators leaned heavily on burner phone data, cell site records and digital communications to link the suspect to victims. Mobile records helped narrow movements, connect devices and support key search warrants.

    In the ongoing University of Idaho murder case, prosecutors have relied on smartphone location data, digital mapping history and phone activity logs to build a timeline. Location records helped place the suspect’s phone near the crime scene during critical time windows.

    Fraud investigations across the U.S. tell a similar story. In large-scale romance scams and crypto investment schemes, law enforcement now uses smartphone chat logs, transaction screenshots and crypto wallet trails to follow the money. Cryptocurrency evidence appears in a growing share of cases as online scams surge.

    The pattern is clear. Phone data can protect the innocent by confirming where someone was. It can also reveal intent through messages, searches and digital payments.

    Here is what matters most for everyday Americans. Even if you are not committing a crime, your phone creates a detailed and often lasting record of your life. And in today’s justice system, that record carries real weight.

    BRYAN KOHBERGER’S PHONE RECORDS REVEAL PANICKED SEARCHES AFTER POLICE UNCOVERED KEY DETAIL

    Bryan Kohberger sits in court in an orange jumpsuit.

    Bryan Kohberger appears at the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho, on July 23, 2025, for sentencing in the University of Idaho murders case, where prosecutors relied heavily on cellphone location data and digital evidence. (Kyle Green-Pool/Getty Images)

    The rise of crypto and AI in criminal cases

    The report revealed another important trend. Cryptocurrency is now the fastest-growing source of evidence. Investigators cited crypto data in 22% of cases, largely due to the explosion of online scams and fraud. If you have followed ransomware attacks or crypto investment scams, this makes sense. Payments leave blockchain trails. Law enforcement increasingly follows the money.

    Meanwhile, 65% of detectives believe AI tools can speed up investigations. A typical case can require up to 35 hours of digital review. About 60% of that time goes to sorting and evaluating data. That creates pressure. And pressure can lead to mistakes.

    Experts warn that generative AI can deliver convincing but inaccurate results if no one double-checks them.

    The hidden bottlenecks behind digital evidence

    The report also highlights challenges investigators face behind the scenes. More than half of devices arrive locked. Many investigators report difficulty accessing iOS and Android phones due to constant software updates and encryption. Most teams still review evidence manually. Only a small share of users use advanced analytical tools to connect data across devices and cases. On top of that, agency leaders say training gaps and rising data volume are slowing investigations and stretching resources. As digital evidence grows, so do the pressure points inside the system.

    What this means for you

    Here is the part most people miss. Even if you never plan to break the law, your phone can:

    • Place you at a location
    • Show who you were with
    • Reveal what you searched
    • Expose private conversations
    • Document your purchases

    Sometimes that helps you. It can prove an alibi. It can clear your name. Other times, it raises serious privacy questions. Who has access to your data? How long is it stored? How securely is it handled?

    In most criminal investigations, law enforcement must obtain a warrant or other court-approved legal process to access the contents of your phone. But the sheer volume of data these devices hold has exploded. And that changes the stakes.

    Smartphone data and the growing privacy debate

    We live in an era where digital evidence is the backbone of modern justice. That helps solve crimes. It protects victims. It speeds up investigations. But it also means the device in your pocket contains a map of your life.

    As smartphone digital evidence becomes central to 97% of cases, we need to ask hard questions about privacy, oversight and AI accuracy. Because once data exists, it can be used.

    5 SIMPLE TECH TIPS TO IMPROVE DIGITAL PRIVACY

    A smartphone is placed in a plastic evidence bag.

    Smartphones now appear in 97% of criminal investigations, with law enforcement relying on mobile data to reconstruct timelines and track suspects. (Boris Roessler/picture alliance via Getty Images)

    Tech tips: Protect your digital footprint

    You cannot eliminate your digital trail. But you can reduce unnecessary exposure.

    1) Review location settings

    Turn off constant location access for apps that do not need it. On iPhone and Android, set most apps to “While Using” instead of “Always.”

    2) Use encrypted messaging

    Apps like Signal and WhatsApp use end-to-end encryption, which means messages are scrambled so only you and the recipient can read them. Apple’s iMessage also uses end-to-end encryption for conversations between Apple devices. Strong encryption protects your messages from hackers and data breaches. It is also why law enforcement often cannot read message content without access to the physical device. Keep in mind that encryption protects message content, not everything around it. Metadata such as who you contacted and when may still exist.

    3) Lock down cloud backups

    Check whether your messages and photos back up to the cloud. Cloud data can become part of investigations.

    4) Enable strong authentication

    Use a long passcode, not a simple four-digit PIN. Turn on biometric security and two-factor authentication (2FA).

    5) Think before you search

    Search history, voice assistant queries and in-app messages often live longer than you expect.

    6) Keep your phone updated

    Security updates patch vulnerabilities that criminals exploit. They also protect your data from being stolen in breaches.

    Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?

    Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: Cyberguy.com.

    Kurt’s key takeaways

    Your phone is no longer just a communication tool. It is a timeline, a diary and a witness. For law enforcement, that is powerful. For you, it is a reminder that convenience comes with consequences. The next time you tap “Allow” on a permissions request, remember this. You are not just installing an app. You are adding another entry to your digital twin.

    If your phone tells the story of your life, who should control that story when it matters most? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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    Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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    Your phone is tracking you even when you think it’s not

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  • Digital Wallets in Online Gaming: Faster Payments, Better Security

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    Ever waited days for a withdrawal to process after topping up your gaming account? Payment friction can be frustrating. Traditional methods, such as bank transfers and card payments, often come with delays, extra verification steps, and higher failure rates.

    The emergence of digital wallets has changed that experience. With faster deposits, quicker payouts, and a mobile-first design, players can move money in just a few taps, anytime, anywhere. Plus, built-in security features like biometric verification reduce the need to share sensitive card details, making payments not only more convenient but also safer.

    How Digital Wallets Are Transforming Payments in Online Gaming?

    Compared to traditional bank transfers, digital wallets are changing how players make payments in online gaming by allowing instant deposits and much faster withdrawals. This also improves security and reduces the need to enter card details directly on gaming platforms. 

    Speed and Convenience

    Digital wallets make payments fast and simple. Deposits are usually completed within seconds, and withdrawals often take hours instead of days.

    Faster payment processing allows players to continue playing without long waiting periods when claiming rewards, including hong kong casino bonus rewards, tournament prize pools from esports platforms, and token rewards from play-to-earn games.

    Security and Privacy

    Another major advantage of digital wallets is security. They act as a buffer between users and gaming sites, preventing users from sharing sensitive information such as card numbers directly with platforms. Instead, payments are protected through encryption and tokenization, which use secure digital codes. 

    For online creators such as streamers, viewer tips, subscription revenue, and platform payouts typically move through digital wallets to lower the risk of fraud.

    Mobile Gaming Compatibility

    While mobile gaming apps continue to grow rapidly, digital wallets fit naturally into this ecosystem. When making in-game purchases such as weapon upgrades or new avatar skins, players can approve payments quickly and securely using biometric verification, like fingerprint or facial recognition, a feature that is getting more common on smartphones.

    Better User Experience (UX)

    Digital wallets simplify the checkout process by reducing the number of steps needed to complete a payment. With traditional methods, users must manually enter bank or card details, which increases the risk of input errors; digital wallets minimize this issue by autofilling payment information. 

    Game providers also prefer digital wallets because faster transactions and instant confirmation help reduce the chance of users leaving before completing a deposit.

    As digital wallet technology continues to innovate and make payments simpler and faster, the number of digital wallet users worldwide is expected to exceed six billion by 2030.

    Getting Started with Digital Wallets

    Choose a reputable digital wallet and follow these simple steps, which typically take only a few minutes.

    • Step 1 – Create a wallet account: Download a digital wallet app, register using your email or phone number, and set a secure password.
    • Step 2 – Verify your identity: Complete identity verification by uploading basic documents to meet security and regulatory requirements.
    • Step 3 – Add a payment source: Link your bank account or card to fund your wallet balance for gaming payments.
    • Step 4 – Select a wallet at checkout: Choose the digital wallet option when making deposits or purchases on supported gaming platforms.
    • Step 5 – Withdraw winnings: Request withdrawals to your wallet and transfer funds to your bank account when needed.

    Using Digital Wallets for Gaming Payments

    It takes just a few simple steps to use a digital wallet for online gaming payments. After setting up a wallet and adding funds, you can link your wallet to a gaming platform that supports this payment method. It will then appear as a payment option during checkout.

    These options describe how wallets connect to gaming platforms:

    • Mobile wallets: You can make quick payments directly from your smartphone, with biometric approval or PIN verification adding an extra layer of security to confirm transactions.
    • E-wallet platforms: These allow you to store funds in one account and move money between games and platforms without entering bank or card details each time.
    • App-based payment systems: These connect directly with gaming apps and support one-tap payments and instant confirmation on both mobile and desktop platforms.

    Here are examples that show what players typically use digital wallets for:

    • Casino deposits: Add funds instantly to your account without long waiting times, allowing you to start playing quickly and manage your balance more efficiently.
    • In-game purchases: Use wallet balances to buy items, upgrades, or content packs in a faster and easier way, reducing the risk of manual input errors.
    • Subscription payments: Enable recurring charges for gaming services to keep memberships active without making manual transactions.
    • Microtransactions: Make small payments for virtual items or features more easily without disrupting the gaming experience.

    Are Digital Gaming Payments Safe?

    Yes, digital payments are safe and protected by regulations that help ensure fair and secure operations across different markets. Licensed gaming platforms must follow strict compliance standards, including identity checks, age verification, and anti-fraud controls. Many regulators also implement responsible gaming tools such as spending limits and self-exclusion features to help avoid financial risk and harmful behaviour.

    Players should familiarize themselves with strong data protection practices, such as secure ways to browse and reduce tracking, to limit exposure to scams and unauthorized activity.

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    Pradeep Singh

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  • Gambling Culture in Asia: From Mahjong to Casino

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    If you’ve passed by Chinatown or any Asian communities around Lunar New Year, you’re likely to hear the distinctive “click-clack” sound as players “washing” (shuffling) the heavy tiles. For centuries, gambling has served as an entertainment and social activity that connects people during festivals and everyday gatherings. 

    Today, while gambling remains deeply embedded in the culture, these traditional habits coexist with a much bigger gaming scene in Asia, which has grown from a recreational activity into an industry that contributes to the economy and tourism.

    Gambling in Major Regions in Asia

    Gambling has historically played a role in the cultures of many Asian societies, often linked to luck, fate, and tradition particularly in social or festive contexts. Traditional games like Mahjong are common in social gatherings, while in certain places like Macau, it has developed into a large-scale commercial industry. 

    Macau

    Widely known as the “Las Vegas of Asia”. The city, with a population of around 700,000, has a high concentration of large casino resorts. Classic casino games like Baccarat, Blackjack, roulette, and slot machines dominate casino floors, with high-rolling VIP players in private rooms.

    Hong Kong

    Just a ferry or bus ride from Macau, Hong Kong’s gambling scene is centered around The Hong Kong Jockey Club, which oversees horse racing, football betting, and the Mark Six lottery. Meanwhile, the growing interest in digital gaming has led many players to turn to online gambling sites in Hong Kong for a wider variety of games.

    Singapore

    Singapore operates atightly regulated casino market centered around Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa, offering traditional table games and slot machines. The casinos focus on generating tourist revenue, with entry levies for residents and strict regulatory controls implemented.

    China (Mainland)

    Other than the fact that Mahjong is widely played in homes and social clubs, only the China Welfare Lottery and theChina Sports Lottery are officially recognized legal betting channels. Small, casual wagers among friends and relatives are normally classified as entertainment.

    Japan

    When it comes to gambling in Japan, pachinko, the mechanical arcade-style game, immediately comes to mind, with public sports betting such as horse racing, bicycle racing, powerboat racing, and motorcycle racing, and government-run lotteries operating year-round. 

    More recently, casinos have been legalized through integrated resort development, with the country’s first casino resort expected to open in Osaka in late 2030.

    South Korea

    While Kangwon Land remains the only venue open to local residents, most casinos like Paradise City Casino in Incheon target foreign visitors. The locals can legally participate in horse racing, sports betting, and government-run lotteries. Esports betting is growing rapidly, with the most popular titles including League of Legends, DOTA 2, and EA FC (previously FIFA).

    Southeast Asia

    The Philippines and Cambodia have developed major casino hubs serving international tourists, with the former managing its gambling industry through PAGCOR, which oversees casinos, e-games, and sports betting.Online gambling has also emerged as a lucrative sector in both countries. Vietnam allowslimited local gambling at places such as Casino Phu Quoc, while Thailand bans most gambling, but it still tolerates betting on cockfighting as a “cultural tradition”.

    Traditional Gambling Practices in Asia

    Although gambling policies differ across regions, gambling remains a major part of culture, tradition, and social life in Asia. 

    Games such as Mahjong are valued not only for entertainment but also for strengthening family bonds and community connections during festivals, particularly the Lunar New Year, as well as during gatherings and occasions such as weddings. 

    Winning in such activities, including cockfighting in parts of Southeast Asia, is often linked to ideas of luck, fortune, and auspicious timing. Meanwhile, pachinko in Japan is commonly seen as a way to escape stressful work routines and as a social outlet.

    The Shift to Regulated Casino Markets

    In some markets, traditional gambling habits have evolved into regulated casino and online gaming sectors across Asia. Many governments introduced gambling laws and licensing systems to control illegal activity, collect tax revenue, and attract tourism investment while promoting safer practices.

    In Macau, Asia’s leading regulated gaming hub, official projections estimate the city’s casino gross gaming revenue to reach MOP 236 billion in 2026, supported by a shift toward entertainment-led tourism driven by growing income from concerts, shows, and MICE events.

    Singapore shows a similar shift, with the country setting high standards for regulated integrated resorts such as Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa. Meanwhile, the Philippines operates one of Asia’s largest gambling markets and has also moved toward integrated resort development in major projects such as Resorts World Manila. 

    Stay Safe on Digital Platforms

    Digital platforms and mobile gaming have become an important part of industry development across Asia. Smartphone access has made online betting and gaming services more widely available in many markets. The rise of e-wallets and QR payment systems has also simplified deposits and withdrawals.

    In response, governments have introduced licensing systems and regulatory frameworks to monitor operators and protect users. Many platforms now apply responsible gaming tools such as age verification, identity checks, and spending limits to enhance online gaming security, creating safer digital gaming environments for users across the region.

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  • Confidential Computing in 2026: Scaling AI Without Compromising User Data Privacy

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    Confidential computing is changing how organizations use sensitive data. It lets code run on encrypted data inside hardware-protected enclaves, so raw data never leaves a trusted boundary. This matters more now because AI needs vast, varied datasets to learn — and users expect their data to stay private.

    Why Confidential Computing Matters Right Now

    AI models are hungry. They want logs, customer records, health data, telemetry, and more. Without safeguards, using that data creates legal, ethical, and business risk. Confidential computing reduces that risk by protecting data in use — the one state that traditional encryption doesn’t fully secure. Early adopters report better compliance posture and new collaboration opportunities across firms that previously could not share data.

    A Practical Security Paragraph You Asked For

    Many people also use VPNs to protect connections and to reach foreign web resources safely. For remote teams, a reliable mobile client matters. VeePN offers simple apps for many platforms, including VPN iOS. For example, VeePN iOS can be part of a layered defense to protect traffic before it reaches confidential computer endpoints. In short: encrypt the pipe, isolate the computer, and limit what each service can see.

    How Confidential Computing Helps Scale AI

    Confidential computing makes new AI architectures possible. Imagine multiple hospitals training a model together without revealing patient records. Or banks sharing fraud signals without exposing customer details. Those are not hypothetical; the technology is being piloted and deployed for private federated learning and secure inference. Market signals agree: the confidential computing industry is expanding rapidly — from billions today to much larger figures projected over the next decade.

    Real Risks That Push Adoption

    Breaches keep happening. Recent annual reports show hundreds of millions of people affected by data compromises, and the frequency of compromises has climbed in recent years. Attacks are costly; organizations face fines, lawsuits, rebuild costs, and reputational damage. These trends are a major driver behind confidential computing investments.

    Architectures That Work — Plain Language

    Use a simple pattern:

    • Keep data encrypted at rest and in transit.
    • Run sensitive operations inside hardware-protected enclaves (trusted execution environments).
    • Use attestation so remote parties can verify code and platform integrity.
    • Limit outputs: only return model scores or aggregated results — never raw records.

    This pattern fits many AI use cases: privacy-preserving model training, secure model serving, and partner data collaborations. It’s practical. It’s also increasingly supported by cloud providers and chip vendors.

    Performance And Cost — The Trade-Offs

    Yes, enclaves add overhead. But hardware improvements and smarter runtimes have reduced that cost sharply. Providers report the performance penalty shrinking every year, making confidential workloads viable for production AI systems. When you balance the overhead against the cost of a breach or regulatory fines, the math often favors confidential computing — especially for high-risk datasets.

    Governance, Policy, And Compliance

    Confidential computing supports compliance with privacy laws by minimizing the need to centralize identifiable data. It provides technical controls auditors can verify. But it is not a silver bullet: governance still requires clear access policies, logging, and lifecycle controls. Combine legal, security, and engineering teams early when designing systems.

    Integration Tips — Practical Steps

    Start small. A pilot is enough to learn:

    1. Choose a non-critical but representative dataset.
    2. Run a simple model training inside a trusted enclave.
    3. Use attestation to verify the computer host.
    4. Measure performance and auditability.

    Iterate and expand. Keep stakeholders updated with clear metrics: inference latency, throughput, and the number of records processed without leaving an enclave.

    Accessibility, Education, And A Note About Tools

    Education matters. Many teams conflate VPNs, TLS, and confidential computing; they are complementary but distinct. For example, some students and researchers rely on browser extensions and simple VPNs to access blocked resources for collaboration. VeePN can be helpful for remote learning and data access, but must be combined with proper compute isolation when sensitive data is involved. It can prevent most attacks on data while it is in transit between servers, but additional security measures must be taken during storage.

    Use Cases: Concrete And Varied

    • Healthcare: private model training across hospitals without sharing raw patient files.
    • Finance: fraud models that aggregate transaction signals from multiple banks while preserving customer anonymity.
    • Advertising: building audience segments from partner data without revealing user identities.
    • Government: secure multi-agency analytics on classified but non-public datasets.

    These are not fringe ideas. Several consortiums and providers now publish guides and pilots showing real-world deployments.

    Adoption And Market Signals — Quick Stats

    Industry estimates place the confidential computing market in the multiple billions today, and growing quickly year-over-year. Analysts report sharp CAGR figures as demand spikes for privacy-preserving cloud services. Meanwhile, VPN and privacy tools are mainstream: around one to two billion people already use VPNs globally, and the public’s concern about privacy is rising — both are part of the same trend toward stronger data controls.

    Final Considerations — Plain Language Checklist

    • Don’t treat confidential computing as “set and forget.” It needs lifecycle checks.
    • Combine controls. Use VPNs and network protections for connections; use confidential computing to protect data inside the computer.
    • Measure ROI. Track breach risk reduction, compliance savings, and new business enabled by safe data collaboration.
    • Educate users. A tool is only as good as the people who run it.

    Closing — One-Line Takeaway

    Confidential computing is no longer academic: by 2026 it’s a practical, scalable approach for doing AI on private data — when paired with good governance and layered protections, it enables innovation without giving away trust.

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  • Wayve secures £1.1bn investment to fund self-driving plans – Tech Digest

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    London-based autonomous driving startup Wayve has secured a massive $1.5 billion (£1.1 billion) investment, marking one of the largest funding rounds in British tech history.

    The capital injection, led by a Series D round, catapults the company’s valuation to approximately $8.6 billion (£6.4 billion) and cements its position as a global frontrunner in the race to bring self-driving vehicles to commercial reality.

    The funding round drew an elite roster of backers from the upper echelons of the global tech and automotive industries. High-profile investors include Microsoft, chip-making giant Nvidia, and Uber, the latter of which contributed additional funds specifically to accelerate its driverless taxi ambitions.

    The deal also saw significant participation from institutional investors, including SoftBank Vision Fund 2, Baillie Gifford, and the British Business Bank, alongside major car manufacturers including Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, and Stellantis.

    This financial boost is intended to supercharge Wayve’s commercial expansion, beginning with the launch of robotaxis in London later this year through a strategic partnership with Uber. Unlike many competitors that rely on rigid, pre-mapped routes, Wayve’s “supervised autonomy” software uses advanced artificial intelligence to learn from its environment in real-time.

    By processing vast amounts of video and sensor data, the AI recognizes patterns to navigate complex urban settings – a capability CEO Alex Kendall claims is robust enough to handle the UK’s unique challenges, from the winding streets of central London to rural potholes.

    The investment signals a major shift in market confidence, suggesting that autonomous technology has reached commercial maturity. Wayve plans to transition from its 2026 robotaxi trials to deploying its software in consumer vehicles by 2027, with the ultimate goal of making the technology “drive anywhere.”

    However, the road ahead is not without obstacles. Wayve faces stiff competition from US rivals, including Google’s Waymo and Lyft, both of which have set their sights on the UK market for later this year and 2027. Furthermore, the speed of rollout will depend heavily on whether government regulation can keep pace with the rapid technological advancements.

    Despite these hurdles, Wayve’s leadership remains bullish on the future of transport, predicting that all cars will eventually become autonomous as the company targets a total addressable market spanning “every vehicle that moves.”


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  • Spotify can reorder your playlists by BPM and key

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    Spotify is rolling out a new feature that’s meant to make transitions in between tracks even smoother. If you’ll recall, the streaming service released the ability to create customized transitions within playlists in August last year. It gave people a way to create uninterrupted progressions and eliminate awkward silences between songs. Now, Premium users will be able to make sure the songs in their playlists flow seamlessly even further by reordering tracks based on their keys and BPM or beats per minute.

    The new feature can rearrange playlists with one tap. All paying users have to do is tap Mix on one of their playlists and then tap the Edit button. From there, they can scroll down to find the Smart Reorder option. Tapping Smart Reorder will automatically rearrange songs according to their keys and BPM without users having to do anything else. They just have to click Save so that the change to their playlist takes effect.

    Spotify says users have streamed over 220 hours of their mixed playlists since it introduced custom transitions last year. It also listed some of the most popular ones on the platform, including The Weeknd’s Wake Me Up transitioning into After Hours and Flo Rida’s Low into Rihann’s S&M.

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    Mariella Moon

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  • How To Stop Specific Website From Getting Saved in Browsing History

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    • Using incognito mode might not be feasible, as you would have to log in each time you visit a website where you have a profile.
    • In Mozilla Firefox, in the History settings, you can search for a particular website and delete all data for that domain, including history, cookies, and cache.
    • Once this extension is active, you will be able to access the settings whenever you open the history in your browser.

    It is a basic function of web browsers to record and save your browsing data. This also includes the history of all the websites and domains that you have visited. However, there must have been times when you would have felt that if there is any way that a particular website does not get saved in the browsing history. Maybe you don’t want a record of a website in history, but you visit it often. Or maybe you don’t want clutter in your history-based search suggestions from a website you open repeatedly. While there is no direct way to blacklist websites in a browser, there are still some workarounds.

    Stop A Website From Getting Saved in Browsing History

    This is a universal problems as most popular browsers are based on Chromium. However, there are also some non-Chromium browsers like Mozilla Firefox that sometimes face the same issue. We will explore methods to fix this in both Chromium and non-Chromium browsers.

    For Chromium-Based Browsers

    For chromium-based browsers like Google Chrome, Brave, Microsoft Edge, and others, you can simply use a web extension called Better History available on the Chrome Web Store.

    1. Click on the blue button on the right-hand side that says “Add to Chrome,” which might differ depending on the browser you are using. You might get a pop-up asking for confirmation. Click on “Add Extension”.

      add to chrome through chrome web store

      2. You will be redirected to a webpage. Click “Open BetterHistory” there to open the history settings. Once this extension is active, you will be able to access the settings whenever you open the history in your browser.

      click open betterhistory on redirected page

      3. On the sidebar, you will find the ‘Blacklist Domain’ tab. Click that.

      blacklist domain tab

      4. Here, enter the domain you want to blacklist, then click ‘Add’.

      add domain you want to blacklist

      5. Under the same tab, you will be able to see all the blacklisted domains, and you can also delete or edit them.

      view blacklisted domains

      For Non-Chromium Browsers

      For non-Chromium-based browsers, there is no such extension as of now that can directly block a website from being saved in the history. But don’t worry as you can take simple measures like deleting the history for a specific website. In Mozilla Firefox, in the History settings, you can search for a particular website and delete all data for that domain, including history, cookies, and cache.

      1. Open the history settings using the shortcut, “Ctrl + Shift + H”, and search for the particular website if you cannot see it in the recent history.

        search the website

        2. Right-click on the domain and click on ‘Forget about this site’.

        forget about this site

        3. A confirmation pop-up will open. Click ‘Clear data’.

        clear data

        For other browsers that do not have this feature, you can use the private or incognito mode for browsing that particular website. Once you close the tab, the history for that site visit will not be saved.

        FAQs

        Q. Can I stop a website from appearing in the search bar suggestions?

        Yes, if you delete your history and clear the cookies and cache for that website, it will stop appearing in the search bar suggestions.

        Q. Will disabling browser sync stop history from being saved?

        No, disabling browser sync will only prevent history from being saved across devices. The website’s history will still be saved on the device you accessed it from.

        Wrapping Up

        Sometimes you don’t want particular websites saved in your browsing history. Using incognito mode might not be feasible, as you would have to log in each time you visit a website where you have a profile. Since all Chromium-based browsers function similarly at the backend, a single method works for all of them. However, each non-chromium-based browser functions differently, so there is no single workaround for all of them.

        You may also like to read:

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  • BYD triples European sales, Gucci faces backlash over AI slop – Tech Digest

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    Wayve, the self-driving car firm set to launch robotaxis on UK roads, has raised 1.5 billion US dollars (£1.1 billion) from investors including UberMicrosoft and chip giant Nvidia. It has secured 1.2 billion dollars (£890 million) through a funding round backed by the major tech firms, institutional investors and car makers, with Uber investing extra funds to help deliver its driverless taxi plans. The Series D funding round, which is one of the largest ever for a British start-up, values the London-based business at around 8.6 billion dollars (£6.4 billion). Standard 

    Gucci is facing a backlash after using AI to generate images to promote its forthcoming show at Milan Fashion Week. The images have been posted on social media – where users have questioned how using AI instead of human models and photographers is in keeping with the fashion house’s claim that it celebrates “creativity and Italian craftsmanship.” “Bleak days when Gucci can’t find a real human Milanese grandmother to wear an outfit from 1976,” said one in response to an AI-generated image of a glamourous older Italian woman,  in a classic Gucci outfit. BBC 

    Analyst firm Gartner thinks talk of placing datacenters in space has reached “peak insanity,” because orbiting facilities can’t be run economically or satisfy demand for compute power on Earth. “Datacenters in space won’t analyze data on Earth for Earth applications for decades, if ever,” states a report published this week titled “Orbital Datacenters Won’t Serve Terrestrial Needs, So Focus on Earth,” penned by distinguished VP analyst Bill Ray.“Companies are wasting money by pouring funds into the orbital data center ‘bubble’ because the economics do not work,” the analyst wrote. Register

    The Dark Sky weather app, with its ultra regional forecasts and rain-stopping predictions, was the best I’ve ever used – until Apple acquired it, integrated into Apple Weather app for iPhone and then shut it down. At the time, the team behind the app joined Apple to ease the transition. Now they’re back on the scene hoping to fill the void left behind by the standalone Dark Sky app. The new iPhone app (which will come to Android eventually) is called Acme Weather. The major unique selling point is the “alternate predictions”. Stuff 

    For years, the conversation around online safety centred on the “stranger danger” of chat rooms. However, a new risk has now emerged: the AI chatbot’s simulated empathy. New research from Vodafone reveals the scale of this shift. According to its study of 11-16-year-olds, a staggering 81% are now using AI chatbots. Most concerning to experts, however, is the emotional weight these interactions carry. Nearly a third (31%) of these young users feel the bot is an actual friend and 33% have shared secrets with an AI that they wouldn’t tell their parents, teachers, or even their closest human peers. ShinyShiny 


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  • Nuclear Energy Isn’t Scary Anymore. It’s Just Crypto-Coded

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    Nuclear power was once an environmental boogeyman, but not anymore. Somehow, despite shedding its reputation for creating Blinky the three-eyed fish on the Simpsons, and despite convincing AOC to like it, nuclear power is still managing to be right-coded in the year 2026. Nuclear’s sketchiness is just mutating into a new form—smearing it with the same cultural muck as crypto and AI. 

    In September of last year, when Trump negotiated tariffs with Japan, Japan’s end of the bargain required its government to invest $550 billion in the U.S. That deal is creating a giant pool of Japanese money for American businesses to pitch proposals to, and potentially receive giant capital injections via the Trump administration.

    Politico just profiled one such company called Entra1 Energy, which purports to set up nuclear power. Entra1 is under consideration for $25 billion from the fund, but it doesn’t sound like a super reliable way for Japan to see a return on its investment. 

    According to Politico, Entra1:

    • Was founded about three years ago
    • Is based out of a Houston WeWork office
    • Has five or fewer employees
    • Has never brought a nuclear project online

    Citi investment analyst Vikram Bagri told Politico that, “generally, we see names of the leaders, evidence of proof, what they’ve executed on. Generally, we see what projects they’ve worked on, which is missing, and that’s the genesis of the questions.”

    Entra1 gave statements to Politico in defense of its record. It claimed it has, over many years, “conducted due diligence and analysis on the various nuclear technologies that have been under research and development phases and recognized the need for a partner to support their commercialization phases.”

    This “partner” line refers to a larger company called NuScale that plans to collaborate with Entra1 on the project. Politico’s reporting here seems to stem largely from the concerns of about six anonymous NuScale investors fretting about the company’s involvement with NuScale.

    The CEO of Entra1, Wadie Habboush, formerly ran his father’s investment company. According to another investigation from 2019, by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, that father, named R.W. Habboush, made a million-dollar donation to Trump in 2017, and within weeks, Wadie Habboush was granted access to Trump and other powerful figures.

    According to the Entra1 website, the company “is NuScale’s exclusive global strategic partner commercializing the NuScale SMR Technology.” SMR stands for small modular reactor. 

    In most ways, nuclear power is a great alternative to fossil fuels once the plants are built, but global nuclear energy peaked in 2006. Most of the world has largely moved on, especially China, which gets its low-carbon energy from renewables, although it occasionally embarrasses the U.S. by doing things like putting innovative nuclear reactors online that we can’t seem to pull off. China and its next-door neighbor Russia are the only countries with small modular reactors.

    Needless to say, the U.S. doesn’t have any SMRs. The last time any new nuclear reactor went online in the U.S. was in 2023, but construction on that project started in 2009. Before that, the last time a nuclear reactor had gone online was in 2016—a construction project that had begun in 1973. Those are the only two new nuclear reactors in the U.S. in the 21st century.

    For whatever reason (largely this one guy named Michael Shellenberger) people in the U.S. have become convinced that nuclear power is the sane person’s modern energy solution, rather than pie-in-the-sky renewables. Todd Abrajano, CEO of the U.S. Nuclear Industry Council claimed in the Hill a couple weeks ago that private finance is falling in love with the possibilities of nuclear. “Gone are the days in which governments alone financed and brokered new nuclear projects,” he wrote.

    Maybe, but there’s very little nuclear energy on the grid right now feeding AI data centers—which are using technologies like gas turbines to make up for the unmet demand. And meanwhile the Trump administration is funneling money into businesses like Entra1, and performing PR stunts on behalf of the nuclear energy, like airlifting a tiny nuclear reactor from one state to another as a proof of concept for…something. 

    In another part of its statement to Politico, Entra1 said it brings “finance, project development and deal execution management expertise to our projects.” I’m hesitant to predict the future, or speculate wildly, but in the year 2036 do you suppose that through the power of “deal execution management expertise” Entra1 will have brought any nuclear reactors online? And in that same year, do you think Wadie Habboush will still be rich?

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    Mike Pearl

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  • Pentagon issues ultimatum to Anthropic over Claude’s AI safeguards – Tech Digest

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    The dispute highlights a fundamental clash between the tech industry’s ethical guardrails and the government’s desire for military dominance. Anthropic, which markets itself as the industry’s most “safety-forward” firm, has long resisted allowing Claude to be used for mass surveillance or autonomous weapons systems – specifically those capable of “kinetic operations” that use AI to kill without human intervention.

    The Pentagon’s top brass has made it clear that they view Anthropic’s restrictions as unacceptable roadblocks. According to senior officials, if CEO Dario Amodei does not yield by Friday, the DoD has threatened to cancel its massive $200 million contract and formally designate Anthropic a “supply chain risk.”

    Furthermore, Hegseth suggested he would invoke the Defense Production Act, a Korean War-era law that could compel the company to prioritize government requirements on national security grounds.

    Emil Michael, the Pentagon’s chief technology officer, has publicly urged Anthropic to “cross the Rubicon,” arguing that if a company profits from government contracts, its guardrails must be tuned to lawful military use cases. “The Pentagon’s position is that Anthropic should have no say in how the Pentagon uses its products,” noted a senior official.

    Emerging AI Arms Race

    The ultimatum follows a month of heightened scrutiny after the US military reportedly utilized Claude, via a partnership with data firm Palantir, to assist in the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. While Anthropic was the first tech company approved for use in the military’s classified networks, it now finds itself isolated among its peers.

    Rivals OpenAI and Elon Musk’s xAI have already agreed to the government’s terms, with OpenAI reportedly permitting its models to be used for “all lawful purposes.” On Monday, the DoD finalized a deal to allow xAI’s chatbot into classified systems, further weakening Anthropic’s bargaining position.

    The Trump administration has vowed to win a global AI arms race, accelerating the integration of machine learning into everything from unmanned drones to automated targeting systems.

    As the Friday deadline approaches, the outcome of this standoff will likely set a precedent for whether private AI firms can maintain ethical red lines, or if the “Department of War” will successfully mandate unfettered access to the world’s most powerful cognitive tools.

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    Chris Price

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  • HONOR Magic V6 In Red Shows Refined Design Ahead Of Launch

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    Even though we just reviewed the foldable HONOR Magic V5, newly leaked images have already revealed its successor, the HONOR Magic V6, in a vibrant red finish, offering an early look at the foldable ahead of its expected debut in 2026.

    The visuals highlight a more refined design language and an ultra-slim profile, reinforcing the brand’s strategy to position the device in the premium segment.

    Image: GSMArena

    Image: GSMArena

    The red color variant gives the foldable a striking appearance, but the finish goes beyond a simple paint job. The rear panel appears to feature a suede-like texture, designed to provide a soft, tactile feel while enhancing the overall sense of sophistication. Another notable detail is the way the color shifts depending on lighting and viewing angle. When viewed head-on, the device shows a deeper red tone, while tilting it produces lighter shades, creating a dynamic visual effect.

    Image: GSMArena

    Image: GSMArena

    In terms of overall shape and weight, the Magic V6 does not seem to depart dramatically from the design introduced with its predecessor. Even so, it continues to stand out as one of the thinnest and lightest foldables in its category. When unfolded, the device measures just 4.1 mm thick, maintaining a strong focus on portability and engineering efficiency.

    Expected MWC 2026 debut and early details

    Image: GSMArena

    The foldable is scheduled to be officially introduced during MWC 2026 on March 1. In the lead-up to the announcement, several previews and leaks have surfaced, including reports of an extreme durability test. Full technical specifications have not yet been disclosed, but the Magic V6 has already been confirmed as a flagship model powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 platform.

    Additional rumors surrounding HONOR’s presence at MWC suggest the company may also showcase other innovations at the event, though the foldable smartphone is expected to be one of the main highlights.

    HONOR Magic V6 – Expected Specifications
    Inner Display 7.95-inch OLED, 2352 × 2172 resolution, up to 120Hz refresh rate
    Cover Display 6.43-inch OLED, 2376 × 1060 resolution, up to 120Hz refresh rate
    Chipset Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
    RAM 12GB / 16GB
    Internal Storage 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
    Front Cameras Dual front-facing cameras
    Rear Cameras Triple camera setup:
    • 200MP main camera
    • Periscope telephoto with 3× optical zoom
    • Third camera (unspecified)
    Durability & Connectivity IP certification (unspecified), satellite communication support
    Battery 7,150mAh
    Operating System Android 16
    Colors Black, White, Gold, Red

    Filed in Cellphones >Rumors. Read more about , and .

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    Paulo Montenegro

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  • Discord delays global age verification after backlash – Tech Digest

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    Discord has announced it is pushing back its controversial plan to mandate age verification for all users following weeks of intense community protest.

    Stanislav Vishnevskiy, Discord’s co-founder and CTO, confirmed on Tuesday that the global rollout – initially scheduled for March – will now be delayed until the latter half of 2026.

    The delay comes as the platform, which boasts over 200 million monthly users, struggles to balance looming international regulations with a user base that is deeply sceptical of online surveillance.

    Under the original proposal, users were to be defaulted into a restricted “under-16” version of the app until they provided a facial scan or government ID to prove their age. This sparked an immediate exodus to rival platforms such as TeamSpeak and Stoat.

    Seeking alternatives to ID scans

    In response to the outcry, Discord is now developing “more verification options” that do not require invasive facial or ID scans. One alternative currently in development is credit card verification.

    Vishnevskiy admitted that the company “earned” the scepticism it faced, acknowledging that trust in the tech industry regarding personal data is at an all-time low.

    Discord estimates that when the system eventually launches, less than 10% of users will actually need to undergo formal verification. The company plans to rely heavily on its internal “age determination” system, which uses account age, payment history and server patterns to estimate a user’s age without reading private messages.

    To address transparency concerns, Discord has pledged to publish the methodology of this system before the global rollout.

    The company’s efforts to tighten security are driven by the need to comply with new safety laws in the UK, EU, Australia, and Brazil. However, Discord’s track record has fueled user doubts. Last October, a cyber-attack likely leaked the ID photos of 70,000 users. More recently, researchers discovered that Persona, a third-party verification firm previously used by Discord in the UK, had left thousands of files exposed on the open internet.

    While Discord reiterated that no images will be stored under the future global system, many users remain unconvinced. For a platform that built its reputation on providing private, often anonymous spaces for gamers, the shift toward mandatory verification represents a fundamental culture clash.

    As Discord prepares for a rumoured IPO later this year, it must now find a way to satisfy global regulators without alienating the community that made it a success.


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    Chris Price

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  • Noise Airwave Max 6 Launches With 120-Hour Battery And ANC

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    The Noise Airwave Max 6 has been officially introduced as the latest addition to the company’s premium audio lineup. Positioned in the high-end segment, the over-ear headphones aim to push battery life standards while combining features such as active noise cancellation and multiple built-in microphones for calls and media playback.

    The Airwave Max 6 is equipped with dual coaxial drivers (40 mm + 12 mm), designed to deliver deeper bass response alongside clearer vocals. The headphones also support LDAC and Hi-Res Audio, enabling higher-resolution wireless playback for more detailed sound reproduction when paired with compatible devices.

    Noise includes hybrid adaptive active noise cancellation rated at up to 45 dB, a level intended to improve listening in loud environments such as public transport or busy offices. A five-microphone system is used not only for ANC processing but also for voice capture, with wind-noise reduction aimed at improving call clarity.

    Connectivity and design

    For wireless connectivity, the model features Bluetooth 6.0, which the company claims provides greater stability and latency as low as 80 ms. Google Fast Pair is supported for quicker pairing on compatible Android devices, and spatial audio is included for a more immersive listening experience. The headset works with both Android and iOS without platform restrictions.

    In terms of build, the Airwave Max 6 uses breathable ear cushions and a steel-reinforced headband for durability. The foldable structure and zippered hard carrying case are designed to make transport easier.

    Battery life and fast charging

    Noise advertises up to 120 hours of playback in standard mode and up to 80 hours with ANC enabled. With the company’s Instacharge fast-charging system, a 10-minute charge is said to provide up to 6 hours of use.

    Price and availability

    In India, the headphones are priced at ₹6,999 (approximately $85 in direct conversion) and are available in Dune White, Cobalt Blue, Forest Green, and Carbon Black. There is currently no official word on U.S. or global availability or pricing.

    Filed in Audio. Read more about , and .

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    Paulo Montenegro

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  • Mitsubishi Motors PH reaches 900,000-unit local production milestone for L300

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    Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) has reached a major manufacturing milestone with the local production of its 900,000th unit of the Mitsubishi L300, reinforcing the company’s long-standing commitment to operational excellence and quality manufacturing in the Philippines.

    The locally produced Mitsubishi L300 has become one of the most trusted commercial vehicles in the country, supporting business continuity and economic activity across industries. This milestone reflects sustained production growth driven by disciplined manufacturing processes and continuous improvement initiatives.

    MMPC achieved this milestone through the consistent demand for its locally assembled completely Knocked-down CKD models, alongside ongoing kaizen activities implemented by its Manufacturing Division. These initiatives have focused on optimizing the production line, improving efficiency, and strengthening quality across all CKD units.

    “The 900,000-unit production milestone of the Mitsubishi L300 reflects the dedication of our people and our commitment to continuous improvement in manufacturing,” said Ritsu Imaeda, president and chief executive officer of Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation. “Through disciplined operations and teamwork across our organization, we have been able to sustain production excellence while delivering vehicles that our customers have relied on for many years.”

    Renowned for its durability and reliability, the Mitsubishi L300 has long been a dependable partner for small and medium enterprises, logistics providers, and fleet operators. Its robust build and practical cargo capacity have made it well-suited for delivery operations and various business applications, helping support daily operations and long-term growth.

    The L300’s cost-efficient ownership has further strengthened its position as a practical commercial vehicle choice. Designed to balance performance, durability, and operating efficiency, it continues to serve as a valuable asset for businesses seeking dependable transportation solutions.

    As MMPC continues its production journey, the company remains focused on strengthening its manufacturing capabilities, upholding quality standards, and supporting the evolving mobility needs of customers.

    900,000th L300 unit at MMPC’s manufacturing facility’s Final Okaying Station
    MMPC Executives and leaders attend the Okaying of the 900,000th L300 unit. (From left to right): Manufacturing VP Naoyuki Okamoto, Manufacturing Deputy Division Head Reynaldo Gabay, After Sales Division Head Toko Imai, Manufacturing Division Head Manabu Higuchi, President & CEO Ritsu Imaeda, Chairman Noriaki Hirakata, Finance Division Head Masaki Watanabe, Sales & Marketing Division Head Toshiaki Kato, Corporate Deputy Division Head Edwin Dellosa, Finance Deputy Division Head Rolando De Guzman, (front row) Legal Deputy Division Head Atty. Imelda Brown.
    MMPC Manufacturing heads and managers witnessed the final stage of production of the 900,000th unit of L300 (From left to right) Logistics AVP Jesus Cacapit, Purchasing Sr. Manager Arnel Geronimo, Production AVP Gary Agana, Production VP Celestino Lanceta, Engineering VP Ericson Fonte, Manufacturing VP Naoyuki Okamoto, Manufacturing Division Executive VP Manabu Higuchi, Manufacturing Division Sr. VP Reyanldo Gabay, Logistics VP Jemabel Boncajes, Quality Control VP Rogelio Borlaza, Total Customer Satisfaction VP Eugene Coronado, Office of Production Strategy VP George Gonzales, Safety, Health & Environment VP Marfel Acheta.

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  • Fiuu predicts Top 2026 trends in the digital payments landscape

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    Fiuu, the leading fintech platform in Southeast Asia, has identified top trends and predictions for digital payments in the Philippines.

    2025 was a pivotal year for the industry in the Philippines. A series of long-anticipated developments came together over a short period: the entry of Apple Pay and Google Pay, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ push for 24/7 real-time payment infrastructure, tighter anti-money laundering (AML) requirements, and regulatory guidance across the financial system.

    Collectively, these shifts changed the role of digital payments in everyday commerce. What was once driven by convenience and incentives has become a necessity for both consumers and merchants. Seamless availability, strong security standards, and regulatory compliance are no longer differentiators. They are now baseline expectations.

    In the opinion of Eng Sheng Guan, Fiuu chief executive officer, “The digital payments landscape is moving into a more mature phase as we enter 2026, shaped as much by infrastructure and regulation as by consumer behavior.”

    Interoperability Becomes Non-Negotiable

    Interoperability has moved from a technical aspiration to a commercial requirement. The arrival of Apple Pay and Google Pay significantly raises consumer expectations around universal acceptance, while 24/7 payment rails remove timing and availability as limiting factors.

    Consumers now expect to pay with any wallet, at any time, without friction. As a result, fragmented ecosystems, limited wallet acceptance, or system downtime increasingly result in abandoned transactions rather than workarounds.

    For retailers, this shift is already influencing payment strategy. Large merchants are standardizing on interoperable, multi-wallet checkout systems to maximize conversion rates and reduce operational complexity. Supporting only a narrow set of wallets is no longer seen as efficient. Instead, it creates unnecessary friction and lost sales.

    According to Eng, “Interoperability in 2026 is not about innovation. It is about meeting minimum commercial expectations in an increasingly competitive retail environment where consumers expect to tap and pay instantly, regardless of channel or purchase size.”

    Cashless-by-Default Retail Takes Hold

    Cash is increasingly being reassessed, primarily from an efficiency, speed, and customer experience perspective, as real-time payments and digital tools make cashless experiences easier and more practical for everyday transactions. 

    Across major Philippine cities, everyday payment behavior is visibly shifting toward contactless and card-based transactions, particularly in transport, convenience retail, and quick-service dining. Small-value purchases that were historically cash-dominant are increasingly completed with a tap, signaling that digital payments are becoming embedded in daily routines rather than reserved for high-value spending.

    Consumers are becoming more comfortable with cash-lite and cashless environments, particularly in urban areas. Digital payments are increasingly perceived as safer and more transparent, especially for larger or repeat transactions. Frequent low-value transactions, including transport fares, convenience purchases, and dining, are now commonly paid using contactless cards or mobile wallets, reinforcing digital habits across daily routine.

    Retailers, especially large chains, are responding accordingly. Reducing cash acceptance allows businesses to improve efficiency, strengthen compliance processes, and lower security risks. In this context, cashless adoption is driven less by innovation and more by operational discipline.

    As Eng observes, “The shift away from cash in the Philippines is increasingly driven by speed, predictability, and smoother customer flow, alongside evolving consumer preference.”

    Embedded Credit and BNPL Grow Under Stronger Controls

    Flexible payment options such as embedded credit and buy-now-pay-later continue to expand, supported by improving identity verification, responsible leading frameworks, and clearer regulatory guidance shaping how these products are designed and deployed.

    Consumers remain open to embedded credit when it is seamless, transparent, and secure. Trust is increasingly the deciding factor, rather than access alone. Importantly, the growing familiarity with using cards for everyday spending is also normalizing short-term credit as a routine payment behavior, not just financing tools for large purchases.

    For retailers, embedded finance offers clear upside, including higher basket sizes and improved conversion rates. However, partnerships are becoming more selective. Merchants are prioritizing providers that can balance speed with compliance, ensuring growth does not introduce regulatory or reputational risk.

    Eng highlights, “The next phase of embedded finance growth will favor platforms that scale responsibly, with strong customer protection, transparency, long-term trust, compliance, and governance built in from the start.”

    Taken together, these trends point to a more mature digital payments ecosystem in the Philippines. Consumers now expect convenience, value, and security as standard. Retailers are using payments as strategic tools for growth, engagement, and risk management. Banks and wallets are differentiating themselves through interoperability, compliance capabilities, and trust.

    Infrastructure, regulation, and consumer behavior are increasingly aligned, setting clearer parameters for success. In this environment, market leadership will be defined not by rapid adoption alone, but by the ability to deliver consistent, interoperable, and secure payment experiences at scale.

    Looking ahead to 2026, Eng shares, “Our focus at Fiuu in the Philippines is on supporting merchants as expectations rise, daily digital payment usage accelerates, and the ecosystem continues to mature.”

    Ultimately, 2026 will be the year digital payments are judged less by how quickly they grow, and more by how reliably they work across consumers, merchants, and the broader financial system.

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  • Nissan PH celebrates its ‘Always Daring’ legacy at the first-ever Nissan Festival

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    Nissan Philippines marked a new milestone in its local history at the Clark International Speedway for the first-ever Nissan Festival last February 1, 2026. True to its theme “Driven by Passion, Powered by Legacy,” the event brought together over 1,700 enthusiasts and served as the largest official gathering of Nissan car clubs and fans in the country, transforming the speedway into a hub for performance and heritage.

    The festival opened with a Car Club Parade and Heritage Lap, featuring over 50 parade cars and 10 heritage vehicles led by various Nissan car clubs and the Stance Pilipinas community. The track moment became a moving tribute to iconic Nissan nameplates that have shaped the brand’s past, present, and future.

    The event also highlighted the intersection of automotive culture and lifestyle through a collaboration with world-renowned artist QUICCS. Inspired by the Nissan Z NISMO, the display featured a one-off creative installation, including a life-sized TEQ63 figure and a custom diecast piece.

    QUICCS, also known as Juanito Maiquez, brought his signature street-art style to the forefront of the event, presenting pieces that celebrate design, creativity, and imagination. Guests wandered through the display, captured photos, and felt the energy that connected art with the Nissan experience.

    Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano, who was represented by 2nd District Councilor Iony De Lara-Bes, expressed her support for the brand’s contribution to the growing automotive industry.

    Nissan Festival

    Attendees also explored partner showcases and experiences made possible with the support of Motul Philippines, Overland Kings, Yokohama Tires, Brembo Brakes, PIAA, SONAX, Little Trees, and Shell Pilipinas at the festival grounds. 

    The afternoon sessions shifted focus to high-performance driving led by Ashley Sison, who thrilled the crowd with skillful maneuvers and daring moves on the track. Fans were also treated to appearances by Nissan brand ambassador Matteo Guidicelli, who participated in driving exhibitions to showcase the brand’s motorsport pedigree to the public. Marlon Stockinger and F4 Motul Racer and Brand Ambassador’ Inigo Anton also joined the event as special guests, adding to the star-studded motorsports lineup.

    A significant highlight for enthusiasts was the presence of Hiroshi Tamura, known globally as the “Father of the GT-R.” Tamura-san’s presence brought the brand’s motorsport heritage closer to the community. Three festival participants were selected for an exclusive track experience, joining Tamura-san for a ride-along session.

    During the event, Nissan Philippines signaled a busy year ahead, hinting at upcoming additions to its vehicle lineup.

    “Seeing our community celebrate Nissan’s legacy firsthand reflects the passion that drives our brand,” said Masao Tsutsumi, President of Nissan Philippines. “This festival marks the beginning of an active year for us as we continue to bring new vehicles and daring experiences to the Philippine market.”

    The Nissan Festival concluded as a milestone for the brand, reinforcing its commitment to its customers, its dealer network, and its position as a leader in automotive performance.

    For the latest Nissan updates, visit https://www.nissan.ph/.

                                          

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  • Geely showcases new-generation GEA vehicle architecture for the PH market

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    As the Philippine automotive market transitions toward electrification, Geely has introduced its Global Electric Architecture (GEA), a vehicle platform that integrates electric powertrains with advanced digital systems.

    The company said the GEA is a modular architecture that combines hardware, software, ecosystem connectivity, and artificial intelligence into a unified system. Geely described the platform as a major investment in its next-generation vehicle development strategy.

    By moving away from traditional, the GEA platform uses a centralized electronic and electrical structure designed to support intelligent vehicle functions and over-the-air software updates.

    Electronic and electrical architecture

    While conventional fuel vehicles operate using multiple independent control modules, the GEA incorporates the GEEA 3.0 electronic and electrical architecture.

    By integrating 14 traditional control modules into just two centralized units, Geely has created a central super brain. This system uses an Ethernet backbone with a 100Mbps transmission speed. 

    This shift allows for faster data transmission and quicker intelligent responses, providing a digital architecture capable of supporting connected vehicle features.

    Power meets structural intelligence

    It is designed from the ground up to balance electric drive systems with high-efficiency internal combustion range extenders. 

    Geely said engines developed for this platform can achieve thermal efficiency as high as 46.5 percent, ensuring that every drop of energy is utilized.

    Because the architecture is modular, it supports various drive configurations while incorporating an integrated 11-in-1 electric drive unit. This integration—combining the motor, electronic control, and transmission into one compact housing—reduces weight and lowers the vehicle’s center of gravity, significantly enhancing cornering control and stability.

    Cabin and structural safety

    Beyond the drivetrain, the GEA platform enables a high-resolution display systems and integrated audio technologies, including the Flyme Sound system, with headrest-mounted speakers.

    Safety is fundamentally integrated through Cell-to-Body (CTB) technology, where the battery is built directly into the architecture. Geely said this design protects the energy cells during collisions and significantly increases torsional rigidity, reaching up to 31,000Nm/deg. 

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    Gadgets Magazine 13

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  • Shell tops global lubricants market for 19ᵗʰ consecutive year

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    Shell Lubricants has once again been ranked the world’s leading global supplier of finished lubricants, marking its 19th consecutive year at the top of the industry, according to the Global Lubricants: Market Analysis and Assessment 2025 report by Kline & Company. This recognition maintains Shell’s leadership while meeting evolving customer needs globally, further reinforcing its role as a trusted partner across automotive and industrial sectors.

    Visit Shell’s Industrial Lubricants and Services page to learn more about the services and how they work.

    For updates and future initiatives, follow Shell Pilipinas Corporation on its official website and social media channels (Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn).

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    Gadgets Magazine 12

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