Research
* Key Takeaways: * Chinese researchers report a thermal-battery breakthrough that may solve a long-standing conversion and density trade-off. * Thermal batteries offer extreme durability and low self-discharge but traditionally lag in energy density and power output. * If validated at scale, the advance could broaden thermal storage use in grids, EVs, and harsh-environment
Gadgets
* AirTag 2 introduces a new onboard chip that Apple says improves how easily items can be located. * This is Apple’s first major AirTag upgrade since the product’s launch five years ago. * The change is likely to affect precision finding, responsiveness and potential future features. * Owners should watch for
Games
* Director of Resident Evil Requiem directly denied open-world rumours in our interview. * The statement clarifies that Requiem will not adopt a full open-world structure. * This preserves expectations for focused survival-horror design and guided level structure. * The team hasn’t detailed how exploration, pacing, or map size will work yet. Director
Gadgets
• Key Takeaways • Apple has released a second‑generation AirTag — its first upgrade in five years. • The new AirTag includes Apple’s newer Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip, a louder built‑in speaker, and improved range. • The hardware changes should improve precision locating and make lost items easier to find. What’s
AI
* Apple is reorganizing its AI efforts and has formed a partnership with Google to accelerate generative and assistant capabilities. * The company is preparing two new versions of Siri while shifting management and elevating John Ternus to lead design-related work. * Apple’s moves tie into preparations for its 2026 Mac launches
Software
* Free apps can match or exceed paid tools for features, security, and cross-platform support. * VLC, DaVinci Resolve, Bitwarden, LibreOffice, and GIMP offer pro-grade capabilities at no cost. * Open-source communities and frequent updates drive long-term value; paid tiers mainly add convenience or niche features. * Consider learning curves and official support differences
AI
* Key Takeaways: * Bloomberg reports Apple will debut a Gemini-powered version of Siri in February. * The assistant will receive an initial reveal ahead of a fuller presentation at this year’s WWDC. * The move signals Apple integrating large language model (LLM) technology into Siri, with wider implications for AI on Apple
Startups
* A New York startup, Aircela, has built a fridge-sized machine that converts ambient air into gasoline. * The system is not “free energy”: it requires significant inputs and energy to produce fuel, but can be practical for small-scale uses. * Potential applications include decentralized fuel supply for remote sites, research, and backup
Security
* Key Takeaways: * CISA has confirmed active exploitation of four separate vulnerabilities affecting enterprise products and developer tooling. * Affected projects include enterprise software from Versa and Zimbra, plus the Vite frontend framework and the Prettier code formatter. * Organizations should immediately consult vendor advisories, apply available patches, update developer dependencies, and monitor
Games
* Xenoblade Chronicles 3 leads thanks to its refined combat and emotional scope. * Definitive Edition preserves the original’s strengths while modernizing systems. * Torna and Future Redeemed are excellent but shorter, designed as companion pieces. How this list was made This ranking covers the mainline Xenoblade titles plus major remasters and
Games
* Nintendo announced via its Nintendo Today smartphone app that it will host a special Super Mario Galaxy–themed Nintendo Direct presentation on Sunday. * The company labeled the event a "Movie Direct," suggesting a film-focused or cinematic showcase tied to Super Mario Galaxy. * Nintendo has not yet published full
Games
* Key Takeaways: * An Australian age-rating entry suggests a PS5 release of the PS1 Classic Rayman tied to its 30th anniversary. * The listing indicates an upcoming re-release but provides no official release date, price, or publisher details. * Age-rating entries often precede formal announcements, making an official reveal likely in the coming
