From The Verge · 40 stories
X Adjusts Algorithm to Prioritize Replies From Mutual Followers
X has updated its algorithm to prioritize replies from mutual followers, aiming to foster meaningful community interactions on the platform. This tweak addresses user feedback about random content visibility in replies, which previously led to unfamiliar discussions. The change intends to create more cohesive interest-based interactions among users.
Elon Musk Denies Reports of SpaceX Handheld AI Device Prototype
Elon Musk has denied reports that SpaceX is developing a handheld AI device, calling the claims "utterly false." Despite this, several outlets reported a prototype, allegedly shown to investors, that was thinner than an iPhone and featured technology from xAI. The reports have raised questions about SpaceX's potential in AI hardware and mobile services, but Musk's denial leaves the company's plans uncertain.
CMF Launches Clip Pro Open Earbuds with Smart Dial Case for $99
Nothing's sub-brand CMF has released its first open earbuds, the CMF Clip Pro, priced at $99. These earbuds feature a clip-style design for situational awareness, 10.8mm drivers, and a charging case with a "Smart Dial" for controls, offering 10 hours of battery life per charge. This launch expands CMF's audio product line with a new form factor.
Twelve South Releases Smaller Valet Charging Tray with Increased Wireless Power
Twelve South has introduced a new, more compact version of its Valet charging tray, reducing its depth from 7.5 inches to 4.25-4.5 inches. This updated model increases wireless charging power to 25W, up from 15W in the original, and is priced at $129.99.
Sunbird Relaunches iMessage App for Android on Google Play Store
Sunbird has relaunched its iMessage for Android application on the Google Play Store, making it publicly available after a beta period and a three-year hiatus. The app aims to provide iMessage functionality, including blue chat bubbles, reactions, and high-quality video, to Android users, despite previous security concerns that led to its temporary shutdown in 2023.
BMW Displays Full-Screen Spider-Man Advertisement on In-Car Displays
BMW began displaying a full-screen advertisement for the movie "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" on the dashboard Control Displays of customer vehicles starting July 27, 2026. This promotion, running until August 10, 2026, in over 70 markets, appears as a banner at startup that drivers can click to play a full-screen animation, contradicting a previous statement by a BMW senior vice president regarding in-car advertising.
Friend AI pendant re-launches with speaker and increased price
The Friend AI wearable has been re-launched as version 2.0, now featuring a built-in speaker for verbal interaction and updated AI models. The device's price has increased from an initial $99 or $129 to $249, and a new $10 monthly subscription is required to retain conversation memory beyond 30 days.
Meta pauses subscription plan for Conversation Focus feature on smart glasses after user feedback
Meta has paused its plan to charge a monthly subscription fee for the Conversation Focus feature on its smart glasses, which enhances audio clarity. This decision follows user backlash regarding the proposed fee and rate limits for a feature that operates locally on the device.
AppleCare+ Prices Rise for New Mac and iPad Buyers
Apple has increased the prices of AppleCare+ for new Mac and iPad buyers by $0.50 per month or $5 per year. This move aligns with recent price hikes across Apple's hardware offerings, attributed to rising component costs. Existing customers with AppleCare+ continue on their current plans without any price changes. The AppleCare One bundle, covering three devices, remains priced at $19.99 monthly, offering cost savings for users with multiple devices.
Amazon's Blade Runner 2099 Series Premieres November 25th on Prime Video
Amazon announced that its new streaming series, Blade Runner 2099, will premiere on Prime Video on November 25th, with all eight episodes released simultaneously. The series, set 50 years after Blade Runner 2049, stars Michelle Yeoh and Hunter Schafer, and features Ridley Scott as an executive producer.
Warner Bros. Sues Amazon for Allegedly Poaching HBO Employees
Warner Bros. Discovery has filed a lawsuit against Amazon, accusing it of inducing contracted employees to breach their employment agreements, specifically citing the case of former HBO Max EVP Pia Barlow. This legal action highlights disputes over talent acquisition practices in the entertainment industry, particularly concerning employees under existing contracts.
Xteink Launches Ultra-Portable X4 Pro E-Reader with Touchscreen and Light
Xteink has released the X4 Pro, an ultra-portable e-reader featuring a touchscreen and built-in front light. Priced at $99, it aims to improve usability over previous models, although it supports only DRM-free ebooks and includes limited software options. This update matters for fans of minimalistic, pocket-sized e-readers seeking enhanced features.
X Unveils Video Editor to Combat Content Theft on iOS App
X has launched a new video editor in its iOS app to encourage original content creation over recycling viral clips. The tools include multi-language caption overlays and a green screen feature. This move aims to curb content theft often committed by top accounts.
Spotify Enhances Release Radar with Customizable Listening Filters
Spotify has introduced new customization options for its Release Radar playlist, allowing users to adjust recommendations by genre and artist. This update, now available on both mobile and desktop, includes improved session controls and a redesigned look. It aims to enhance personalized music discovery for the nearly 9 million weekly users of the playlist.
Nothing Launches Phone 4A Pro with Aluminium Body and LED Screen Matrix
Nothing has released the Phone 4A Pro, a £499 aluminium-bodied smartphone with a large camera island featuring an LED matrix. The device is distinguished by its notable design among mid-range offerings and is positioned above the regular Phone 4A. Meanwhile, the Phone 4B, a budget model, introduces the 'B-series' as a more affordable option but will not be available in the US.
Nothing Launches Ear 3A Buds with Audio Recording at $99 Price Point
Nothing introduced its new Ear 3A wireless earbuds for $99, featuring an Audio Snapshot feature for recording audio and calls. The earbuds also come with improved ANC and built-in storage. They connect recordings with the Nothing X app for further functionality.
Robot Lawn Mowers Show Improved Navigation and User-Friendly Features
Recent robot lawn mower models demonstrate advancements in navigation and maneuverability, addressing previous issues with getting stuck. The TerraMow V1000 uses a camera-based TerraVision 2.0 system for automatic mapping, while other models show improvements in RTK and NetRTK navigation, making them more reliable for yard maintenance.
Bipartisan Opposition to Data Center Construction Emerges in US
Local communities in the US are increasingly opposing the construction of AI data centers, leading to moratoriums and protests from both conservative and liberal groups. This bipartisan backlash against data centers reflects broader public anxieties about AI and its infrastructure, potentially influencing future electoral politics.
Reddit faces increasing AI SEO spam as brands exploit its search value
Reddit communities are encountering a new wave of AI-powered SEO spam, with brands using deceptive tactics to promote products. This trend highlights Reddit's growing importance as a source of authentic information, which spammers are now targeting.
Ethical concerns rise over GPU impact from AI expansion
The growing demand for GPUs in data centers for AI raises ethical concerns about their environmental impact. Issues include energy consumption, water use, and e-waste from GPU manufacturing and disposal.
Dr. Jill Lepore discusses vital AI backlash in upcoming book
Dr. Jill Lepore's book, "The Rise and Fall of the Artificial State," argues that societal measurement and quantification led to dehumanizing practices impacting politics and governance. She emphasizes the role of AI and big tech in shaping societal structures, positing that college graduates' backlash against AI might be essential for societal change.
Digitas CEO Amy Lanzi Critiques AI's Role in Advertising
Amy Lanzi, CEO of Digitas North America, argues that AI will not solve the challenges in advertising, emphasizing the need for realistic expectations. She highlights the shift in marketing roles toward data-driven business results, while cautioning against overpromising AI capabilities in the industry.
BitTorrent Celebrates 25 Years: A Controversial Legacy of File Sharing
Today marks the 25th anniversary of BitTorrent, created by Bram Cohen in 2001. The app's impact on file sharing and piracy has shaped the internet and posed significant challenges for the entertainment industry.
Microsoft removes Mico character from Copilot voice mode, relocates it to Learn Live
Microsoft has removed its Mico character from Copilot's voice mode less than a year after its launch, moving the avatar to the Learn Live platform. Mico, introduced in October 2023 to provide an identity for the chatbot, will now serve as a tutor. This change is part of Microsoft's broader efforts to merge Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot applications.
Matt Groening hints at a return for The Simpsons: Hit & Run game
Matt Groening, co-creator of The Simpsons, suggested that the 2003 game "The Simpsons: Hit & Run" might be making a comeback in some form. This potential return could involve a direct port or an HD remaster, making the game accessible on modern consoles.
Apple TV announces August content, including new seasons of Ted Lasso and Dark Matter
Apple TV will release new seasons of several shows in August, including "Ted Lasso" (season 4), "Women in Blue" (season 2), "Stillwater" (season 5), and "Dark Matter" (season 2). A new sports docuseries, "The Dynasty: UConn Huskies," will also debut. This content update provides subscribers with new viewing options across comedy, drama, sci-fi, and sports genres.
Petlibro Smart Feeder Outage Causes Pets to Miss Meals
A service outage affecting Petlibro's smart pet feeders and other devices began on Tuesday, preventing scheduled food dispensing and remote control. The issue, attributed to app communication with online servers, led to some pets missing meals, particularly impacting owners away from home. Petlibro stated that app services were fully restored by 7 PM PT on Wednesday.
Matic Robot Vacuum Adds Voice and Gesture Control with Matic Cues Update
The Matic robot vacuum has received a software update called Matic Cues, introducing voice and gesture control capabilities. Users can now direct the vacuum to clean specific areas by pointing or using voice commands in over 70 languages, without needing a smartphone app. This update, available from August 13, 2024, precedes a price increase for the Matic robot from $1,245 to $1,495 on September 9, 2024.
Rivian R1S to Offer Second-Row Captain's Chairs in 2027 Model Year
Rivian announced that second-row captain's chairs will be available for its R1S SUV as part of the 2027 model year refresh. This feature, a frequent request from owners, provides easier access to the third row and increased interior flexibility. The captain's chairs will be offered as an optional upgrade.
Roku Launches Fairground AI Creator TV, a 24/7 AI-Generated Content Channel
Roku has introduced Fairground AI Creator TV, a new 24/7 free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channel featuring content from approximately 100 AI creators. This channel, developed in partnership with AI startup Fairground, marks Roku's entry into generative AI content, though initial viewer reactions describe the content quality as low.
Your AI Slop Bores Me allows users to roleplay as AI chatbots
A new web application called "Your AI Slop Bores Me" enables users to roleplay as AI chatbots, responding to prompts from other human users. This platform offers a humorous take on AI interactions by having humans mimic AI limitations and responses.
Trevor Noah to Host Made by Google 2026 Event Featuring Pixel 11 Pro and Watch 5 Teases
Google announced Trevor Noah will host the Made by Google 2026 event on August 12th at 6 p.m. ET in New York City. The event will feature various celebrities and athletes, and Google briefly teased the Pixel 11 Pro with HiLight active and the Pixel Watch 5.
Apple Vision Pro to Stream Live MLB Friday Night Baseball in Immersive Video
Apple will stream four MLB Friday Night Baseball games in immersive video on Apple Vision Pro, starting August 28th with the Boston Red Sox at New York Yankees. These broadcasts will feature dedicated commentary and live graphics, expanding the Vision Pro's immersive content library which previously included NBA games and other experiences. This initiative aims to attract more users to the platform by offering unique sports viewing experiences.
Nothing Releases Ear 3A Earbuds with Transparent Design and Improved Features for $99
Nothing has launched the Ear 3A earbuds, priced at $99, featuring a transparent design, 12mm dynamic drivers, and improved active noise cancellation (ANC). The new model maintains Nothing's visual identity and offers enhanced sound quality with adjustable EQ, though some users may experience minor issues with adaptive ANC and call quality.
HP Releases HyperX Omen 15 and Omen Max 16 Gaming Laptops
HP has released two new gaming laptops, the HyperX Omen 15 and the HyperX Omen Max 16. The Omen 15, starting at $1,200, replaces the budget-friendly Victus 15 and features an RTX 5050 Laptop GPU and a 16:10 display. The Omen Max 16, priced at $4,699, includes a Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor and an RTX 5090 GPU, but its performance does not align with its cost.
Apple Increases Trade-In Values for Most Devices, Adds New Android Models
Apple has updated its trade-in program, increasing values for most iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch models, with some increases reaching nearly 30%. The company also expanded its accepted Android devices to include additional Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and OnePlus models, while lowering values for some older Android phones.
Dolby Vision 2 Launches on Select 2026 Hisense TVs, Expanding HDR Capabilities
Dolby Vision 2, a new dynamic HDR format, is now available on select 2026 Hisense TV models, including the UX, UR9, UR8, and U7, with availability by September 2026. This update introduces a more powerful image engine, expanded metadata, and features like Content Intelligence and Light Sense 2, aiming to optimize picture quality across various viewing conditions.
Viture Launches Pro 2 Smartglasses and Mobile Dock Mini, Focusing on Comfort and Clarity
Viture has released its Pro 2 smartglasses, priced at $299, and a more compact Mobile Dock Mini for $99. The Pro 2 model is 20 percent lighter and 16 percent thinner than its predecessor, featuring diopter adjustments and UltraClarity 3.0 technology for improved visual comfort and image clarity. This release aims to make advanced clarity features more accessible to consumers at a lower price point.
Ring Releases Peephole Cam 2K, Upgrading Resolution and Design for $99
Ring has launched the Peephole Cam 2K, an updated version of its peephole doorbell camera, featuring 2K video recording, a slimmer design, and a starting price of $99.99. This new model replaces the 2019 Door View Cam and is designed for easy installation without drilling, making it suitable for renters.
OpenAI's First Influencer Trip Draws Backlash Over AI's Environmental Impact
OpenAI hosted its inaugural influencer brand trip, dubbed "Summer Club," at a luxury retreat in upstate New York, which led to online criticism. Influencers posted content from the event, but comments highlighted concerns about the environmental impact of AI data centers and other ethical issues.