From The Verge · 40 stories
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.
Dell XPS 13 (2026) reviewed: a thinner, lighter laptop with compromises for its $700 price
Dell's new XPS 13 (2026) model is thinner and lighter than previous versions, starting at $700, but features a more basic design, slower Intel Core hardware, and a mechanical trackpad. The review suggests that its 8GB RAM configuration is insufficient for comfortable Windows 11 use, despite its competitive pricing against the MacBook Neo.
Firefox Redesigns Desktop and Mobile Interfaces with Rounded Tabs and New Themes
Mozilla released a design overhaul for Firefox across desktop and mobile, introducing rounded tabs, a refreshed address bar, and new themes. This update aims to modernize the browser's appearance and unify its design language across platforms.
Xbox PC App Reveals "Mythic Achievements" Feature, Similar to PlayStation's Platinum Trophies
A new update to the Xbox PC app indicates the upcoming launch of "Mythic Achievements," a feature that rewards players for completing all achievements in a game. This new system mirrors PlayStation's Platinum Trophies and will include a unique unlock sound, dashboard tracking, and profile display options.
Pixel 11a Renders Leak, Showing Minimal Design Changes and Tensor G6 Processor
Renders of Google's upcoming Pixel 11a have leaked, indicating a design largely unchanged from its predecessors, the Pixel 9a and 10a. The device is expected to retain similar dimensions and display bezels, but will reportedly feature an upgraded Tensor G6 processor and be available in black, silver, green, and purple color options. This leak provides an early look at the mid-range device's aesthetics and internal specifications.
Kevin O'Leary's Utah Data Center Project Faces Local Backlash, Claims of Chinese Interference
Kevin O'Leary's "Wonder Valley" data center project in rural Utah, planned to be the world's largest, is facing significant local opposition. O'Leary publicly claimed that Chinese agents were behind the online criticism of the 40,000-acre development, which includes a 9-gigawatt gas power plant.
RoseBerry Media to Recut Australian Soap Opera 'Neighbours' into Microdramas for Epis Platform
RoseBerry Media is recutting episodes of the Australian soap opera "Neighbours" into short-form vertical video "microdramas" for the Epis streaming platform. This initiative aims to adapt existing television content for mobile consumption and introduce the classic series to new audiences.
Mike Flanagan's 'Carrie' series on Prime Video updates classic horror for 2026
Mike Flanagan's new 'Carrie' series, his first project for Amazon, reimagines Stephen King's novel by incorporating cyberbullying and other modern elements. The eight-episode series expands on the original story while retaining key plot points and themes.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Receive Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast Support
Bose is rolling out firmware update 10.12.12 for its QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, adding Bluetooth LE Audio, Auracast, and LC3 codec support. This update also refines USB-C audio performance and introduces 5.1 spatial audio for compatible Android devices. The upgrade allows for public audio streaming and improved audio quality, primarily benefiting Android and Windows users with compatible devices.
Una Watch, a $199 open-source, modular, and repairable GPS sports watch, is available
The Una Watch, a new GPS sports watch, is now available for $199, featuring a modular, repairable, and open-source design. It includes fitness tracking capabilities and encourages user-developed applications and hardware modifications.
Lemmo 3 Cargo E-Bike Features Semi-Solid State Battery for Increased Range and Safety
The German e-bike manufacturer Lemmo has released its first cargo bike, the Lemmo 3, which incorporates a semi-solid state battery. This battery technology offers improved energy density, increased safety, and a longer lifespan compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, impacting the e-bike's range and overall durability.
Cricut Introduces StickerPix Print and Print Plus Cut Machines for Sticker Creation
Cricut has launched two new compact crafting machines, the StickerPix Print plus Cut and StickerPix Print, which are designed for printing, cutting, and laminating stickers. These machines offer an all-in-one solution for creating stickers from photos and images, marking Cricut's first machines with built-in printing capabilities.
Microsoft launches new Surface Mouse with haptic feedback and customizable action button
Microsoft is releasing a second-generation Surface Mouse on October 13th, featuring haptic feedback and a customizable action button. This update introduces new tactile interactions within Windows 11 and specific applications, and allows for quick access to functions like Copilot.
Nikon Releases Z5 IIC Mirrorless Camera Without EVF, Offering Cheaper, Lighter Option
Nikon announced the Z5 IIC, a new mirrorless camera that removes the electronic viewfinder (EVF) to offer a more affordable and compact alternative to the Z5 II. This release provides a lower-cost full-frame camera option, particularly for vloggers and content creators, by retaining key video features while reducing size and price.
EssilorLuxottica Releases Nuance Audio Plus Hearing Aid Glasses with Improved Features
EssilorLuxottica launched Nuance Audio Plus, an updated version of its discreet hearing aid glasses, featuring enhanced voice boosting, better clarity in noisy environments, and extended battery life up to 10 hours. The new model also adds more on-device controls and style options, aiming to improve user experience and accessibility for over-the-counter hearing solutions.
Oppo Find X10 "Pro Max" model rumored to feature three 200MP cameras
A leak suggests the upcoming Oppo Find X10 "Pro Max" smartphone will include three 200MP cameras, a significant increase from previous models. This development indicates Oppo's continued focus on high-megapixel camera systems in its flagship devices.
Marvel's Wolverine PS5 game features linear action and violent combat
Insomniac's new PS5 exclusive, Marvel's Wolverine, is a linear action game that emphasizes violent combat and a simpler gameplay style. It departs from the open-world format of previous Insomniac titles, focusing on Wolverine's aggressive fighting mechanics and a story involving Team X.
Insta360 Releases Luna Pro Gimbal Camera with 4K Portrait Video Support
Insta360 released the Luna Pro, a new single-lens gimbal camera priced at $600, which offers 4K shooting in 9:16 portrait mode. This feature distinguishes it from competitors like the DJI Pocket 4 and Insta360 Luna Ultra, which currently only support 3K in portrait mode, making it relevant for social media content creators.
Jimmy Kimmel Moves James Talarico Interview to YouTube Citing FCC Threats
Jimmy Kimmel announced his interview with Democratic Texas Senate candidate James Talarico will be posted on YouTube instead of airing on television due to concerns about retaliation from the Trump administration's FCC. This follows similar incidents involving Stephen Colbert and The View, and ABC has filed a lawsuit against the FCC.
Trump T1 Phone price increases by $250 to $749
The Trump T1 Phone's price increased by $250 overnight, raising its cost from $499 to $749. This change follows previous statements from Trump Mobile executives calling the launch price "introductory" and "promotional."
Nintendo Switch 2 Firmware Update Adds VRR Support in TV Mode and System Transfers
Nintendo released firmware update 23.0.0 for the Switch 2, which adds Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support when the console is docked and in TV mode. This update also enables full system transfers between Switch 2 consoles and includes minor Mii editor and quick settings adjustments.
Boox Picco e-reader with 3.97-inch touchscreen and Linux OS to launch in November
Boox will release its Picco e-reader in November, featuring a 3.97-inch touchscreen, physical page-turn buttons, and a Linux-based operating system. This device offers an alternative to the Xteink X4 with its own set of features and limitations.
Apple Arcade to Add Five New Games on October 1, Including "Pusheen's Place" and "Terraria+"
Apple Arcade will expand its game library on October 1 with five new titles. These additions include two new games, "Pusheen's Place" and "River City Survivors," and three existing App Store games, "Terraria+", "Touchgrind BMX 2+", and "4 Pics 1 Word+", re-released without ads or in-app purchases.
TP-Link and JMGO Unveil New Hardware at IFA 2026
TP-Link introduced new Wi-Fi 8 routers and mesh systems, while JMGO released a 4K 120Hz projector outside China at IFA 2026. These announcements showcase early adoption of upcoming wireless standards and advancements in projector technology.
Amazon Cargo Plane Overruns Runway at Miami International Airport, Causing Injuries
An Amazon-branded Boeing 767-300 cargo plane operated by 21 Air overran the runway during landing at Miami International Airport, crashing into vehicles and resulting in multiple injuries. This incident led to grounded flights and a significant emergency response, impacting airport operations and Amazon's logistics.
Bentley to unveil its first battery-electric vehicle, the Torcal, next month
Bentley will reveal its first battery-electric vehicle, the Torcal, next month. This marks Bentley's entry into the fully electric vehicle market, building on its existing plug-in hybrid offerings.
iRobot unveils Roomba Max 875 Combo with SealForce carpet sealing technology
iRobot, now under Picea Robotics ownership, announced the Roomba Max 875 Combo, a new robot vacuum and mop featuring SealForce technology for enhanced carpet cleaning. This release marks iRobot's first major trade show appearance in years and introduces new features like ThermaMist for mopping and increased suction power.
Lexar Introduces Muse Ultra-Slim Portable SSD with Proprietary SnapLink Cable
Lexar has announced the Muse Ultra-Slim Portable SSD, which measures 3.8mm thick and offers 512GB and 1TB capacities. The drive achieves its thin profile by using a proprietary magnetic SnapLink cable with pogo-pin connectors instead of a standard USB-C port. It provides read speeds up to 1,050MB/s and write speeds up to 1,000MB/s, supporting 4K Apple ProRes video recording at 120fps.
Netflix developing live-action D&D 'Ravenloft' series, cancels 'Forgotten Realms' series
Netflix is developing a live-action series based on Dungeons & Dragons' Ravenloft setting, focusing on the vampire Strahd von Zarovich. This news comes as Netflix has reportedly canceled its previously planned live-action Forgotten Realms series.
Hohem Introduces Eyepic Gimbal Camera with Detachable Action Camera Module
Hohem has launched the Eyepic, a new handheld stabilized camera that features a detachable magnetic camera module. This module can function independently as an action camera, allowing for both stabilized 4K video capture and flexible, hands-free dynamic footage. The Eyepic records 4K video at 60fps and includes a 2.5-inch rotating touchscreen display.
DJI Launches ROMO 2 Robot Vacuums with Enhanced Obstacle Avoidance and Data Privacy Features
DJI has released its ROMO 2 series of robot vacuums, the ROMO P2 and ROMO A2, featuring improved obstacle detection, LiDAR-guided mopping, and a new Local Data Mode for enhanced privacy. This release updates DJI's robot vacuum line with mechanical and software improvements, including options to limit data transmission and disable cameras/microphones.
Soundcore Expands Audio Lineup with Thus Chip Integration in New Headphones and Earbuds
Soundcore, an Anker brand, announced new audio products at IFA 2026, including the Space 2 Pro headphones, AeroClip 2 and AeroClip 2 Pro open clip earbuds, and Liberty Buds 2. All new devices integrate the Thus processing chip, previously introduced with the Liberty 5 Pro series, to improve call quality and active noise cancellation.
Amazon Alexa for Shopping adds 'Update Me When' feature for personalized purchase alerts
Amazon has launched a new "Update Me When" feature for its Alexa for Shopping AI assistant, which sends personalized notifications to users about new products, content releases, or events that might lead to a purchase. This expands Alexa's role from answering direct product questions to proactively anticipating potential shopping interests, indicating a shift in Amazon's AI strategy for retail.
Jaguar Land Rover Debuts 2027 Range Rover Electric Alongside ICE and PHEV Models
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has introduced the 2027 Range Rover Electric, a new battery-electric vehicle variant that will be sold alongside its internal combustion and plug-in hybrid counterparts. This release marks JLR's continued transition towards electrification, offering a factory-supported EV option for the Range Rover line.
Acer Introduces Swift Blade 14 and Swift Air 16 Laptops with Intel Wildcat Lake Processors
Acer has unveiled two new laptops, the Swift Blade 14 and the Swift Air 16, both powered by Intel Wildcat Lake processors. The Swift Blade 14 weighs 1.76 pounds (799g) and is 0.51 inches (12.95mm) thin, making it lighter than Apple's 13-inch MacBook Air. These releases expand Acer's mid-level laptop offerings, with availability in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa in December, and North America in Q1 2027.