Facing fierce competition and losses, Chinese EV maker Xpeng is rebranding as a “physical AI” company. It plans robotaxi trials and to mass-produce humanoid robots by late 2026, betting that software and robotics will be its salvation.
Elon Musk’s xAI is burning through cash at a staggering rate, with losses widening as it invests heavily in data centers and talent. The company’s goal is to develop AI that will eventually power humanoid robots like Tesla’s Optimus, but profitability remains a distant target.
Despite constant cyberattack warnings, a new report reveals a massive gap in identity and access management. Employees are routinely bypassing controls, and AI agents are adding a whole new layer of complexity that companies aren’t ready for.
Microsoft is testing a new Copilot Checkout feature for US users, allowing purchases directly within its AI chat. The test involves major brands like Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie, and is powered by the open Agentic Commerce Protocol from OpenAI and Stripe.
Seattle’s startup ecosystem maintained its position in 2025, ranking sixth in the U.S. for venture capital raised. The city brought in nearly $2 billion, though that’s just a sliver of the total pie compared to leading tech hubs.
Wisconsin lawmakers have introduced a bill to create a new utility rate class specifically for data centers. The legislation aims to prevent other customers from subsidizing the massive power and water demands of these facilities.
Samsung’s long-promised Ballie home robot has been “indefinitely shelved,” according to a new report. The spherical companion, first shown in 2020 and promised for a summer 2025 release, will now remain an internal “innovation platform.”
Researchers have uncovered a sophisticated Android malware campaign enabling remote NFC payment fraud. Criminals are using disguised apps to steal card data and make illicit transactions, with one scheme already linked to $355,000 in losses.
A new report claims Realme is being reabsorbed as a sub-brand under Oppo’s main marketing umbrella. This would mark a significant strategic shift for the smartphone maker that was spun out to compete in the budget segment.
Acer is refreshing its mainstream Aspire laptop line with a focus on AI. The new Aspire 14 AI and 16 AI models will be powered by Intel’s upcoming Core Ultra Series 3 processors, featuring optional OLED displays and a suite of proprietary AI software tools.
