AI
* Key takeaways: Gemini Personal Intelligence shows how a Gemini-powered Siri could access Mail, Calendar, Photos and more to personalize answers. * Google’s feature is opt-in, cites data sources for transparency, and gives users a way to correct or remove personalization. * Apple’s implementation is expected to use on-device processing and
Chips
• ASUS says the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB are not discontinued or EOL. • Current supply fluctuations are tied to memory supply constraints, not a production halt. • ASUS will continue to support these models and is working with partners to stabilize stock. ASUS public statement ASUSTeK
Security
* Key Takeaway: A vulnerability called WhisperPair affects 17 Bluetooth audio accessories certified with Google Fast Pair. * Key Takeaway: Flaw lets an attacker within Bluetooth range pair to devices, potentially enabling microphone access, audio injection and location tracking. * Key Takeaway: Affected brands include Sony, Jabra, JBL, Marshall, Xiaomi, Nothing, OnePlus, Soundcore,
Gadgets
• Asus reportedly placed GeForce RTX 5070 Ti add-in cards into end-of-life, which could drain 16GB VRAM stock. • Global memory makers (Samsung, SK Hynix, Micron) are prioritizing AI datacenter DRAM, squeezing consumer VRAM supply. • Nvidia says demand for GeForce RTX GPUs is strong but memory supply is constrained and it’s
Chips
* Key Takeaways: * Engineers built an electrically injected surface acoustic wave (SAW) phonon laser on a single chip, producing vibrations at ~1 GHz and scalable to tens or hundreds of GHz. * The device combines silicon, lithium niobate and indium gallium arsenide to convert electrical current into amplified surface vibrations. * A single-chip
Games
* Free 3.0 update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons available to download now (arrived Jan. 14). * Switch 2 edition of New Horizons went live Jan. 15; upgrade costs $5, full Switch 2 purchase $65. * 3.0 adds a resort hotel on the pier, new items, QoL improvements and the Slumber
Gadgets
* Key Takeaways: * Apple’s iPhone 17e will add the Dynamic Island but keep a 6.1-inch OLED display capped at 60Hz. * The device is expected to use an A19 chip (likely downclocked in some builds) based on TSMC N3P. * Other upgrades may include a MagSafe-compatible magnetic ring, retained 12MP front
Security
* Key Takeaways: * WhisperPair is a Fast Pair vulnerability that can let attackers hijack Bluetooth audio devices to play audio, track location, or access microphones. * KU Leuven researchers say more than a dozen models from 10 manufacturers (including Google, Sony, Nothing, JBL, OnePlus) are affected. * The median takeover time is about
Chips
* ASUS confirms RTX 5070 Ti production has stopped and the card is listed as EOL. * NVIDIA is reallocating RTX 50 series supply toward specific 8GB SKUs and higher-tier 16GB models because of a global memory (VRAM) shortage. * Retailers in some regions (Australia reported) cannot secure RTX 5070 Ti stock; disruptions
Gadgets
* Key Takeaways: * HP’s EliteBoard places a complete Windows 11 PC inside a slim USB-C keyboard, powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 300-series processor and Radeon 800M graphics. * The device is a 2026 CES Innovation Awards honoree, weighs about 750 g, measures 12 mm thick, and is designed for portability
Security
* Key Takeaways: * Researchers at KU Leuven found vulnerabilities in 17 Fast Pair-compatible audio models that let attackers silently pair and hijack devices. * Exploits can enable eavesdropping, audio injection, and, for some models, high-resolution tracking via Google’s Find Hub. * Google and several vendors have released firmware updates, but many users
Games
* Key takeaways: * Sid Meier's Civilization VII will join Apple Arcade on February 5, 2026. * The game will be playable on Mac, iPhone and iPad through Apple Arcade subscription. * Reviews have been mixed: visuals are widely praised, but players criticize era-transition mechanics. * The Apple Arcade edition follows an earlier
