Security
* Key Takeaways: * Apple released iOS 26.2 with critical security fixes and also published iOS 18.7.3 for devices remaining on iOS 18. * Some iPhone owners who opted to stay on iOS 18 report being offered iOS 26.2 only, not the iOS 18.7.3 security update. * The
Policy
* Instagram will cap hashtags at five per post for reels and standard posts. * The change aims to reduce spam and encourage targeted tagging for better discovery. * Instagram tested lower limits earlier and now enforces a universal five-tag maximum. * Threads and other Meta products continue to adopt even stricter tag rules.
Games
Key Takeaways: * Riot Games confirms a major overhaul for League of Legends scheduled for 2027. * The studio denies a "League 2" reboot but promises a new around-game client, Summoner's Rift visual overhaul, and rune changes. * More details will arrive between MSI and Worlds 2026; release likely
Games
* Generative AI in games generated roughly $660M on Steam for titles that disclosed its use, but costs and ethical questions outpaced clear revenue gains. * The industry faces deprofessionalization as layoffs and gig-style work shift employment, while collaborative mid-sized studio models and Kickstarter provide alternative financing. * Unions gained traction (id Software,
Security
* Key Takeaways: * Several ASRock, ASUS, GIGABYTE and MSI motherboards contain a UEFI implementation bug that reports DMA protection as enabled but fails to initialize the IOMMU during early boot. * Researchers from Riot Games and a CERT/CC advisory warn the mismatch allows physical attackers with a DMA-capable PCIe device to
Gadgets
• Key Takeaways: * Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 are on sale for a record-low $199, down from $250. * The earbuds pack Apple’s H2 chip, improved battery life, foam-infused tips and stronger ANC. * New features include heart-rate sensing and Live Translation for multiple languages. * Engadget’s review scored the AirPods Pro
Gadgets
* Key Takeaways: * Displace Hub is a wall-mount system that adds an Intel N‑150 PC and a 15,000mAh battery to make 55–100" TVs wireless. * Specs include a 4‑core Intel N‑150 CPU, integrated GPU, 16GB RAM, 128GB storage, two HDMI inputs and Controller 2.0 support.
Gadgets
* AirPods Pro 3 are on sale at Amazon for $199, down from $249 — a match of the all-time low. * Some delivery estimates have begun slipping past December 25; availability varies by location. * AirPods (4th gen) without ANC are discounted to about $74 (was $129). * Stock levels are fluctuating — deals may
Games
* Staff reportedly required to work at least eight extra hours per week, up to 60 hours. * Mandated overtime allegedly ran for seven weeks while finalizing Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet demo. * Developers were told to be in-office five days a week (up from three); management says this will revert in January.
Games
* Sold over 18,000 copies and generated roughly $65,000 net revenue. * Santa Ragione repaid development loans and royalties to creator Andrea Lucco Borlera. * Bans from Steam and the Epic Games Store limited the game's reach and left the studio unable to fund a new project yet. * Santa
Games
* Steam Winter Sale runs Dec 18, 2025–Jan 5, 2026 with sitewide discounts. * Notable discounts: Clair Obscur $40 (was $50), Silent Hill f 40% off ($42), Assassin’s Creed Shadows $35 (was $70). * Indie bargains include Stardew Valley $9, Baby Steps $13, Consume Me $10 and BALL x PIT $12.
Games
* Progen Luiva (Super) arrives in GTA Online as a roofless, lightweight holiday supercar. * The Luiva is available at Legendary Motorsport or Luxury Autos; GTA+ members can claim it at The Vinewood Car Club showroom. * Holiday period features free vehicles, seasonal modes (Yeti Hunt, Snowball Fights), and bonuses running Dec 23–
