Technology

After three years, Apple has unveiled the iPhone 16e as the new entry-level model, replacing the iPhone SE. Priced at $599, it features an updated processor for Apple Intelligence, a 48MP camera, and the first full-screen design with Face ID in an entry-level iPhone. The A18 chip powers the device, offering fast performance and AI capabilities, making it a competitive option in the mid-range smartphone market. Full Article

Microsoft has released Windows 11 Build 26100.3321 to the Release Preview Channel, featuring new features like a battery icon, File Explorer improvements, and Windows Spotlight changes. The update also includes Taskbar sharing and Narrator enhancements. These features will gradually roll out to mainstream PCs, although the exact timeline is uncertain. Full Article

Apple unveiled the iPhone 16e, dropping the SE branding to align with flagship models, featuring Apple Intelligence and an A18 processor, USB-C port, 6.1-inch OLED display, 48MP rear camera, Face ID, and improved battery life; with efforts to expand in China through partnerships and pre-orders starting February 21 for $599. Full Article

Chinese game publisher NetEase has been instructed to divest its overseas holdings, starting with Marvel Rivals which resulted in layoffs for its Seattle team. This move has raised concerns that NetEase may be selling off all of its overseas holdings in U.S. game companies. The directive seems to signal a shift in NetEase's strategy regarding its international investments. Full Article

Mira Murati, former CTO of OpenAI, has co-founded Thinking Machines Lab, a new A.I. start-up focused on making A.I. systems more customizable and capable through open source technologies. She left OpenAI after clashes over the company's A.I. direction, joining other former executives in forming their own A.I. companies amidst the global race to advance A.I. technologies. Murati's departure from OpenAI was prompted by a desire for personal exploration, following her involvement in the ousting and subsequent reinstatement of former CEO Sam Altman. Full Article

ZDNET's Kerry Wan reports on the post-Presidents' Day sales for Apple's base-model iPad 10th Gen, released in 2022, with upgrades like a larger display and Magic Keyboard Folio support, now on sale at Amazon and Best Buy. Wan praises the tablet's upgrades, including symmetrical bezels and relocated fingerprint sensor, and notes a $53 discount on the 64GB Wi-Fi model. With a recent price drop to $296, the iPad 10th Gen offers a compelling deal compared to the more expensive iPad Air, making it a worthwhile purchase for those seeking a high-quality tablet at a lower price point. Full Article

Massgrave, a hacking collective, has released the TSforge Activation method, which can permanently activate various Microsoft products. The exploit bypasses Microsoft's DRM system by injecting forged data into key files, allowing users to activate Windows 7 and later versions, as well as Office 2013 to 2024. Despite the advanced nature of Microsoft's DRM technology, Massgrave's MAS toolkit offers alternative activation methods that are openly available on GitHub. Full Article

Netskope has identified a new backdoor threat built in Golang that uses Telegram as its command-and-control (C2) infrastructure, allowing it to receive and execute commands. The malware is capable of executing PowerShell commands, self-destructing, and verifying the validity of received commands before action. While the use of cloud apps like Telegram as C2 servers is not uncommon, it poses a challenge for security professionals to differentiate between malicious and benign activities, with this particular backdoor believed to be of Russian origin. Full Article

In Lost Records: Bloom & Rage, a narrative adventure game by Don't Nod, players experience a captivating slice-of-life tale that jumps between two timelines. The story follows a group of friends reuniting after years apart, exploring past events through the eyes of main character Swann. With unique gameplay mechanics like a camcorder feature and first-person perspective, Lost Records offers a fresh take on the genre, promising innovation and emotional depth for fans of narrative adventure games. Full Article

Living is expensive, and saving money is hard, but a high-yield savings account can help you earn interest on cash put aside. Financial planner Chad Harmer advises against using the account for everyday spending and suggests reevaluating your budget if frequent withdrawals are necessary. Despite financial challenges, regular contributions, even small amounts, can help establish good saving habits for the future. Full Article