Tech News

Pony.ai Advances Global Deployment with Launch of Europe's First Commercial Robotaxi Service in Zagreb

2026-04-09T02:46:00.007+02:00

Pony AI Inc. ("Pony.ai") (NASDAQ: PONY; HKEX: 2026), a global leader in the large-scale commercialization of autonomous driving technology, today announced that its robotaxi program in partnership with Verne and Uber has officially begun commercial service in Zagreb, Croatia, marking Europe's first commercial robotaxi service.

Beginning today, members of the public can book and pay for Pony.ai-powered robotaxi rides through the Verne app. The service will soon also be available through the Uber app. The initial service zone covers key districts of the Croatian capital, with plans to expand coverage across the city. Operating daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., the service initially spans approximately 90 square kilometers across the wider Zagreb city center area, including Zagreb Airport.

The service launch comes two weeks after Pony.ai, Verne and Uber announced their partnership to introduce robotaxis in Europe. For Pony.ai, the launch represents an important advancement in the company's dual-engine growth strategy, extending its commercial robotaxi footprint into Europe and building on its latest momentum in scaling robotaxi operations across domestic and international markets. It follows Pony.ai's recent Gen-7 unit economics ("UE") breakeven milestones in two of China's tier-one cities, validating the commercial readiness of its technology and business model.

"This launch marks an important milestone for Pony.ai as we continue to expand our commercial robotaxi operations globally," said Dr. James Peng, Founder and CEO of Pony.ai. "As we advance our dual-engine growth strategy, Zagreb represents both our first commercial robotaxi service in Europe and a meaningful validation of our Gen-7 robotaxi capabilities in a new market. Together with strong partners, we are building a scalable path to bring safe, reliable, and accessible autonomous mobility to more users around the world."

"For the first time in Europe, there is a real commercial robotaxi service. People can use it and take real autonomous rides," said Marko Pejković, Co-Founder and CEO of Verne. "We said we would launch in Zagreb in 2026. Today, we did. This is just the start."

For Pony.ai, the commercial service rollout in Zagreb demonstrates the adaptability of its autonomous driving solution across diverse regulatory and operating environments. The swift service launch also underscores the efficiency of Pony.ai's joint-deployment model, under which Pony.ai contributes its proven robotaxi platform and operational know-how, while partners such as Verne lead local operations, market readiness, and regulatory execution.

As Pony.ai continues to expand its robotaxi business, the company expects its dual-engine strategy and joint-deployment model to continue driving fleet growth and supporting its goal of reaching 3,000 vehicles in its fleet by the end of this year.

Suunto Spark brings air-conduction technology to Suunto's headphones

2026-04-09T00:04:00.002+02:00

Suunto expands it's open-ear sports headphone portfolio and introduces Suunto Spark, the brand's first air-conduction, open-ear headphones designed for active users who want immersive sound without sacrificing awareness. Lightweight, comfortable, and enriched with integrated health and training features, Spark supports users from urban commutes to outdoor adventures while helping them move safer, smarter, and more confidently.

The new Suunto Spark is created for active people who demand comfort, clarity, and connection to their surroundings – especially with runners in mind. The open-ear design allows sound to reach the ear without blocking it, making it possible to stay alert to traffic, fellow runners, or environmental cues while still listening to music, podcasts, or calling.

Beyond awareness, Spark turns everyday listening into an opportunity to train more efficiently. Integrated health and training features help users monitor cadence, running mechanics, and neck posture. Whether heading out for a long run, cycling through the city, or navigating a busy commute, Spark adapts seamlessly to an active lifestyle.

Built for all-day performance

Each earbud weighs under 10 grams and rests lightly on the ear, supported by soft, skin-friendly silicone and a slim, silicone-coated memory-titanium loop that follows the natural contours of the ear. Extensive ear-shape scans and fit testing informed the design process, ensuring a secure, pressure-free fit that remains comfortable during long runs, workouts, or all-day wear. Spark is available in three colours: black, white, and coral orange.

Spark is designed to keep up with the demands of active life. With IP55 dust and sweat resistance, the earbuds are ready for tough workouts and changing weather conditions. Battery life supports up to 7 hours of use on a single charge and up to 36 hours with the charging case, making Spark reliable for long training days, travel, and everyday use.

From early-morning runs to late-night commutes, Spark delivers consistent performance without compromise.

Immersive sound without losing awareness

Suunto Spark delivers a listening experience that is both engaging and responsible. The hybrid multi-driver system produces balanced mids, clear highs, and dynamic bass, while advanced sound leakage reduction helps maintain sound leakage in public spaces. Dual microphones with environmental noise cancellation ensure calls remain clear even in busy environments.

For users who want deeper immersion, Spark supports Hi-Res Audio via LHDC 5.0, preserving fine details and delivering more natural sound reproduction. Head-tracking spatial audio adds a 3D listening dimension that moves with the user, enhancing the sense of presence while staying connected to the world around them.

Through Suunto app, users can tailor the sound to their preferences with customizable EQ settings or choose from preset modes making Spark adaptable to different moods, music styles, and environments.

Extending beyond audio with integrated health and training support

Spark extends beyond audio to become a training companion. Real-time insights help runners monitor cadence, stride, and running mechanics, encouraging more efficient movement. Voice guidance delivers pace, heart rate, distance, and lap updates directly when connected to a Suunto watch, enabling hands-free, focused workouts.

Spark also tracks neck health by monitoring flexibility, daily neck activity, and fatigue, sending alerts that help users maintain better posture and avoid overstrain, supporting not just performance, but general wellbeing.

Seamless connectivity ensures Spark integrates effortlessly into daily routines. With Bluetooth 5.4, dual-device connection, and Find My Spark functionality through Suunto app, users can manage music, calls, and workouts with ease. Head gestures and touch controls allow for intuitive, hands-free interaction on the move.

Suunto's expanding open-ear audio portfolio

With Spark introducing air-conduction technology, Suunto continues to strengthen its broader open-ear headphone offering, providing athletes and active users with solutions tailored to different environments and performance needs.

In addition to Spark, the portfolio spans four other models. Suunto Wing 2 is built for endurance and demanding outdoor conditions, delivering durability and powerful sound for long training sessions. Suunto Sonic offers a lightweight and versatile option designed for everyday training and active lifestyles. For swimmers and multisport athletes, Suunto Aqua and Suunto Aqua Light extend listening into aquatic environments with water-ready construction, storage space for audio, and a secure fit.

Together, the portfolio offers safe, situationally aware audio solutions for a variety of needs, from city streets to outdoor adventures and even beneath the surface.

Availability: Suunto Spark is available from April 8th, 2026 through Suunto.com and selected retailers worldwide.

Pricing: $179

www.suunto.com

SOURCE Suunto

Reolink Announces Official Integration with Homey to Elevate Smart Home Automation

2026-04-08T23:44:00.004+02:00

Reolink, a global leader in intelligent visual technology for homes and businesses, today is proud to announce its official integration with Homey, a smart home platform by Athom, part of LG Electronics that connects devices from more than a thousand brands into one ecosystem.

This collaboration means Reolink cameras are no longer just for monitoring, as they now work in harmony with lights, locks, and even thermostats. By joining the Homey ecosystem, Reolink cameras can trigger "Homey Flows," which are automations that run based on what the camera detects.

"Through our partnership with Homey, Reolink cameras become the eyes of the entire smart home, detecting what matters and creating a home that genuinely responds to what's happening around it,"said Annie Potter, Head of Marketing at Reolink (North America), "This is what truly connected living looks like."

Synergizing Vision with Whole-Home Intelligence

With this integration, Reolink devices move beyond standalone cameras to become active participants in a Homey-powered smart home. Reolink's built-in smart person, pet, and vehicle detection can now be used as direct triggers for Homey Flows, allowing cameras to automatically activate other smart devices to create a more responsive living environment. For example, a person detection event in the backyard can automatically initiate an "On Watch" mode, in which the patio lights turn on, the living room blinds close, and other connected cameras start recording the moment the camera detects someone's presence.

This partnership simplifies smart home management by bringing everything into one intuitive interface. Directly from the Homey App, users can receive instant doorbell and motion notifications, capture snapshots automatically during events, and even turn on camera spotlights, trigger sirens, and change viewing angle through pan-tilt rotation. By linking Reolink's AI intelligence with Homey's vast ecosystem of devices from more than a thousand brands, a security setup evolves from a dedicated monitoring system into a proactive, responsive part of a household's daily routine. Reolink's extensive lineup of WiFi, PoE, and NVR systems, with the exception of 4G/LTE models, now works in perfect harmony with the Homey environment.

Unlocking New Dimensions of User-centric Security

Integrating Reolink devices into the Homey ecosystem is a seamless process: users simply search the Reolink app in the Homey App Store, add their cameras, and immediately begin building Flows using camera events as active triggers.

"A camera that detects someone is useful," said Stefan Witkamp, CEO of Athom. "A camera that detects someone and then locks your doors, turns on the lights, and sends you a photo — that's a smart home."

By bridging the gap between high-performance security hardware and versatile cross-brand logic, Reolink ensures a future-proof ecosystem that interacts effortlessly with a modern lifestyle. This collaboration marks a major step forward in delivering a truly user-centric and interconnected home experience.

Visit Reolink's official website to learn more about the Reolink and Homey Integration.

SOURCE Reolink Innovation Inc.

Ulefone RugOne Xsnap 7 Pro Takes On Honor Robot Phone with a Detachable Action Camera

2026-04-08T22:47:00.002+02:00

Following its global debut at the 2026 Mobile World Congress (MWC), RugOne—Ulefone´s bold new sub brand—continues to shake up the mobile landscape with a radically different vision from the mainstream. While major players showcased »robotic» concepts such as the HONOR Robot Phone with its motorized, dancing gimbal, RugOne has emerged with a battle ready alternative built for real world utility.

The RugOne Xsnap 7 Pro, first unveiled at MWC 2026, is the world´s first rugged smartphone built around a modular »Xsnap» ecosystem. Rather than simply surviving harsh environments, it redefines what a rugged device can be by enabling limitless functional expansion.

Borrowing the »Insta360 DNA»

The standout innovation of the Xsnap ecosystem is the Detachable Action Camera Module. Inspired by the design philosophy of the Insta360 Go series, the primary camera unit is a thumb sized module that magnetically snaps off the phone´s chassis.

Once detached, it becomes a fully independent wearable. Whether mounted to a helmet, clipped to clothing, or fixed to a bike frame, the module stays wirelessly connected to the phone´s massive 9,000mAh »mother ship» battery and AI processing engine. Users get the freedom of a dedicated action camera without the burden of carrying or charging a second device.

Modularity Over Whimsy: A Tool for the Trenches

While the HONOR Robot Phone leans into »emotional interaction» and AI driven movement, RugOne is betting on modular practicality. The Xsnap 7 Pro isn´t a »digital pet» that dances on a desk—it´s a mission critical tool for professionals who work in demanding environments.RugOne´s magnetic backplane is designed to support a growing suite of specialized modules that replace bulky, expensive equipment:

Thermal Imaging Module - Ideal for industrial inspections, power grid maintenance, and search and rescue operations.
Night Vision Enhancement - Uses specialized sensors to deliver clear visibility in near total darkness.
Professional Lens Suite - Quick swap optical glass, including ultra wide and macro lenses, for cinematic content creation in the field.

Flagship Specs Meet Survivalist Grit

The Xsnap 7 Pro refuses to compromise performance for durability. It features a stunning 6.67 inch 1.5K AMOLED display protected by reinforced, impact resistant glass. A sophisticated AI driven main camera works in tandem with the night vision system to deliver professional grade photography in any lighting condition.

Built to survive 2 meter drops and deep water submersion, the device integrates a custom AI interaction layer that simplifies complex tasks in high stress environments—proving that »smart» can also be »tough.»

A New Species of Mobile Terminal

The arrival of the Xsnap 7 Pro marks a decisive shift toward »Hard Tech.» By combining advanced AI, a modular hardware ecosystem, and extreme durability, RugOne is positioning itself as the premier provider for users who demand more than a communication device.

Ulefone official site: https://www.ulefone.com/

RugOne official site: https://rugone.net/

IK Multimedia Launches New TONEX Preset Sharing on ToneNET

2026-04-07T14:22:00.000+02:00

IK Multimedia announces the launch of full-rig preset sharing on ToneNET, a powerful new way to discover, share, and play tones as they are meant to be heard across the TONEX™ ecosystem.

Building on IK's groundbreaking AI Machine Modeling™ technology, TONEX allows guitarists and bassists to capture real amps, cabinets, and pedals with stunning realism, then play, practice, and record with thousands of ultra-authentic Tone Models. With this latest update, IK continues to develop TONEX beyond just a Tone Model platform into a complete, music-driven ecosystem.

A TONEX Tone Model captures the exact sound of a specific amp, pedal, or rig, while a TONEX preset combines that Tone Model with effects, routing, and settings to create a fully playable sound. With ToneNET Preset Sharing, users can share and discover presets, moving beyond building sounds from scratch to jumping straight into performance-ready rigs inspired by their favorite music.

ToneNET Preset Sharing New Features

Upload and download complete presets consisting of full signal chains
Browse presets by song, artist, genre or playing style
Access performance-ready rigs created by the TONEX community
Discover curated presets from IK Multimedia and official Tone Partners
Experience Premium Tone Models inside complete presets before purchase
Seamless integration across TONEX software, mobile and hardware

Music-Based Tone Discovery

ToneNET Preset Sharing offers a more intuitive, music-focused way to find great tone. Users can browse presets using musical references such as artist, song, genre, or style, making it quicker than ever to find sounds suited to specific playing situations.

By organizing tones around real musical use cases, TONEX helps players focus on playing rather than programming.

A Growing Library of Complete Rigs

Hundreds of presets are already available on ToneNET, with new sounds added daily by the global TONEX community, IK Multimedia and official Tone Partners.

From studio tones for recording to stage-ready rigs for live performance, ToneNET continues to expand into one of the most comprehensive tone libraries available today.

From Studio to Stage

TONEX Preset Sharing is fully integrated across the entire TONEX ecosystem. Users can browse and download presets within TONEX software or via mobile, then transfer them directly to TONEX hardware, including TONEX Pedal, TONEX ONE, and TONEX Plug.

This seamless workflow allows players to move effortlessly from studio sessions to rehearsals and live performances using the same sounds.

A New Way to Experience Premium Tone Models

ToneNET Preset Sharing improves the experience when exploring IK's Tone Model collections. Presets may include Premium Tone Models, allowing users to hear them within full signal chains before buying. This offers a more realistic and musical way to evaluate tones as part of a complete rig, rather than in isolation.

Continuous Innovation

With the introduction of Preset Sharing, IK Multimedia continues its commitment to advancing the TONEX platform, enhancing features while staying dedicated to providing the most realistic and inspiring tone solutions available.

Pricing and Contest

ToneNET Preset Sharing is now available in TONEX version 1.11.0, a free update for all TONEX users through the IK Product Manager, including TONEX CS.

To coincide with the launch, IK is hosting a contest and offering promotional pricing on TONEX Signature Collections, which now feature presets from artists and brands like Joe Satriani, Gus G., Alex Lifeson, MESA/Boogie®, and ENGL®.

Learn more about the contest and prizes at:
www.ikmultimedia.com/TonexPresetSharingContest

For more information about TONEX or to explore ToneNET Preset Sharing, please visit:

www.ikmultimedia.com/tonex
www.ikmultimedia.com/tonenet

Lucid Reveals 2027 Gravity Lineup with Expanded Standard Features

2026-04-03T23:48:00.005+02:00

Lucid Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: LCID), maker of the world's most advanced software-defined vehicles and technologies, today announced updates and enhancements to the Lucid Gravity model lineup for the 2027 model year. As outlined at Lucid's recent Investor Day, the Lucid Gravity serves as a key pillar of Lucid's near-term growth strategy, complementing the Lucid Air sedan and soon to be joined by the midsize Lucid Cosmos and Earth models. The updated 2027 Lucid Gravity lineup maintains its class-leading range ratings from the EPA and enhances customer value with meaningful comfort, technology, and personalization updates across the full Lucid lineup.

As Lucid's second vehicle and first SUV, Gravity is progressing through its production and delivery ramp, complementing the award‑winning Lucid Air and supporting the company's expanding presence in the global luxury market. Lucid Gravity was recently named 2026 World Luxury Car of the Year by the esteemed World Car Awards program. In an awards category open to electric, hybrid, and internal-combustion vehicles, Lucid's all-electric SUV was recognized by a global jury of more than 100 acclaimed automotive journalists from around the globe.

Introducing the 2027 Lucid Gravity Lineup

The 2027 Lucid Gravity introduces a refined trim strategy and a suite of new standard features aimed at enhancing convenience, safety, and everyday usability, while also reflecting a continued focus on adding value and simplifying choices as deliveries grow. All Lucid models now come standard with the DreamDrive™ 2 Premium advanced driver assistance system and an additional key fob.

"Lucid continues to set the benchmark for what an electric SUV can be – efficient, versatile, and deeply luxurious," said Erwin Raphael, SVP Revenue at Lucid. "With the 2027 updates, we've expanded standard features, simplified choices, and introduced a new Prestige Package that showcases the very best of Lucid design and technology. These enhancements reflect our continued focus on delivering compelling products as Gravity gains momentum in the market."

Customers can now customize the 2027 Lucid Gravity using the Design Yours configurator.

Lucid Gravity Touring

The 2027 Lucid Gravity Touring builds on its reputation for delivering exceptional luxury, efficiency, and capability by adding a meaningful collection of new standard features. For the new model year, every Touring now comes equipped with DreamDrive™ 2 Premium, offering more advanced driver‑assistance capability, along with an additional key fob –features that were previously optional but are now included at no additional cost to enhance everyday convenience and peace of mind.

Beyond these upgrades, customers can continue to personalize their Lucid Gravity Touring with a selection of optional packages, including the Comfort & Convenience Package, Technology Package, Power Package, Dynamic Handling Package, Towing Package, Surreal Sound™ Pro, and DreamDrive™ 2 Pro, as well as multiple wheel designs and seating for either five or seven people.

The 2027 Lucid Gravity Touring starts at $79,9001 in the US and $113,5002 CDN in Canada.

Lucid Gravity Grand Touring

For 2027, the Lucid Gravity Grand Touring further distinguishes itself as the pinnacle of the lineup, offering even greater luxury, capability, and exclusivity. The Grand Touring now comes standard with DreamDriveTM 2 Premium, the Comfort & Convenience Package, the Power Package, and 21"/22" wheels, giving customers a more richly equipped vehicle right from the start.

New for this year is the introduction of the Prestige Package, an optional, range‑topping bundle that brings together 22"/23" wheels, Surreal Sound™ Pro, the Dynamic Handling Package, and 3rd‑row seating to create the most comprehensively equipped Lucid Gravity in the lineup. Pricing for the Prestige Package starts at $10,500 in the US and $14,000 CDN in Canada, available starting Summer 2026.

Customers can also continue to select from standalone packages including the Technology Package, DreamDrive™ 2 Pro, and Towing Package. Additionally, for Lucid Gravity Grand Touring models not equipped with the Prestige Package, no‑charge wheel alternatives remain available, along with no-charge interior choices.

The 2027 Lucid Gravity Grand Touring starts at $98,900 in the US and $139,500 in Canada.

SOURCE Lucid Motors

Orka O1 Pro Makes Global Debut at AWE 2026: The World's First Hearing Aid with Powered by Bose QuietControl ANC Technology

2026-04-02T20:36:00.001+02:00

Orka, a pioneer in hearing health technology, officially launched the Orka O1 Pro at the 2026 Appliance & Electronics World Expo (AWE). The Orka O1 Pro is the world's first Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) hearing aid to feature Powered by Bose QuietControl Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology.

The launch took place at the Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone during AWE 2026's inaugural international showcase. As a new gateway designed to support global exchange and cross-border collaboration, the Eastern Hub provided a fitting stage for Orka's global debut. Orka was the only hearing health company featured alongside leading technology brands including Sony, LG, and Lenovo, a placement that reflects the international ambition of the Orka × Bose partnership and Orka's broader mission to bring hearing health into the mainstream of global consumer technology innovation.

Bringing Premium Audio Innovations to Hearing Health

As recently noted by Hearing Tracker, while Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is familiar to millions of consumers from premium headphones, the Orka O1 Pro answers the highly anticipated question of its future in hearing aids.

The device achieves this through the seamless integration of two powerhouse features, heavily supported by Bose's decade of research. First, Bose QuietControl ANC technology acts as the foundation, effectively neutralizing steady-state environmental noises before they reach the ear. Working in perfect tandem, Bose SpeechClarity Voice technology precisely isolates and enhances human speech, ensuring that once the background noise is silenced, essential conversations remain crystal clear.

This collaboration brings powerful, premium audio experiences to users without the battery and processing tradeoffs typically associated with such features, helping make the O1 Pro a true all-day wearable device.

A Milestone in Hearing Health

"For years, we've been focused on the real-world challenges of hearing loss, especially how background noise can make conversations more difficult," said Nicholas Smith, President of the Audio Technology Business and Chief Strategy Officer at Bose. "We saw the potential for our noise cancellation technology to improve this experience, and we knew we needed a partner capable of bringing this kind of breakthrough to the hearing industry. That's why we partnered with Orka."

Smith further emphasized the impact: "Orka integrated our core technology into a complete hearing aid experience engineered for reliable performance in real-world environments. The result is clearer conversations and less effort required to hear — so people can stay in the conversation and stay connected."

Restoring Control and Energy

The Orka O1 Pro hardware is designed for maximum comfort and durability. Weighing just 3.5g per earpiece, it features Bluetooth 5.3 dual-mode connectivity, IP68 durability, and provides over 35 hours of continuous battery life.

In Icelandic, "Orka" translates to "energy." The core philosophy behind the Orka O1 Pro is to significantly reduce the cognitive load and energy drain required to focus in noisy environments. By lowering the effort required to hear, the device returns a sense of control and confidence to the user.

SOURCE Orka

TicNote Pods: The World's First 4G AI Note-Taking Earbuds

2026-03-30T01:58:00.002+02:00

Mobvoi Inc., the company behind the popular Wear OS–powered TicWatch smartwatch line and TicNote AI recorder, today officially launches TicNote Pods, the world's first 4G-connected AI note-taking earbuds, alongside the next generation of its AI agent platform Shadow AI 2.0. Designed for professionals, students, creators, and distributed teams, TicNote Pods capture conversations anywhere — meetings, calls, interviews, or lectures — and instantly convert them into structured knowledge, summaries, and actionable tasks.

The First AI Earbuds Designed for Knowledge Capture

TicNote Pods combine premium wireless audio with built-in 4G connectivity and AI processing, enabling users to capture conversations and process them instantly — even without a phone.

Unlike traditional recorders that only capture environmental sound, TicNote Pods record both the surrounding environment and voices transmitted through the earbuds, ensuring complete conversation capture. Once recorded, audio is automatically transcribed, summarized, and synced to TicNote Cloud, where Shadow Agent can begin working with the content. This transforms everyday conversations into a searchable knowledge base and collaborative workspace.

Key Features

4G AI Recording — No Phone Required

Built-in 4G connectivity allows TicNote Pods to upload recordings directly to the cloud, delivering transcripts and summaries faster than standard connections.

Dual Recording Modes

Earbuds recording: captures calls and online meetings
Charging-case recording: captures in-person conversations hands-free

Shadow AI Transcription & Smart Summaries

Automatically produces speaker-labeled transcripts, key insights, and actionable to-do lists.

Multilingual Intelligence

Real-time transcription and translation support 100+ languages, making TicNote Pods ideal for global teams.

AI Collaboration in TicNote Cloud

Conversations become documents, project files, and tasks, editable by both users and Shadow Agent.

All-Day Comfort

Lightweight open-ear design (7g per earbud) with titanium frame and liquid silicone hooks.

Premium Earbuds Experience

ENC + AEC noise cancellation, Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity, and responsive touch controls.

Hardware & Connectivity

Behind TicNote Pods is a compact system designed for real-time AI processing.

Built-in 4G eSIM

Allows recording and AI uploading without Wi-Fi or a smartphone.

Smart Connectivity Switching

Automatically switches between 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth depending on network availability.

Dual-Mic AI Noise Cancellation

Cloud-assisted noise suppression isolates voices to ensure accurate transcription.

Battery & Storage

5 hours continuous recording
25 hours total recording time with case
40 hours music playback
32GB onboard storage (≈2000 hours audio) with cloud backup.

From Conversations to Real Work

Traditional AI note-taking tools stop at transcription or summaries.

TicNote goes further.

Powered by Shadow AI 2.0, the TicNote platform turns recorded conversations into living project assets that teams can work on together with an AI collaborator.

Inside TicNote Cloud, users can:

Ask Shadow to analyze recordings and uploaded files together
Generate structured documents, slides, PRDs, landing pages directly from discussions
Update files across an entire project
Assign and track tasks created during meetings
Collaborate with teammates and the AI agent in the same workspace

This means meetings no longer end with notes — they end with work already in progress.

The system allows professionals in different fields to move from conversation to execution instantly.

How It Works

Wear – Put on TicNote Pods just like any other earbuds (if not recording via the case).
Tap – Double-tap the case button to start recording; double-tap any earbud to play the next song or answer phone calls.
Record – Double-tap the case button to start recording. The case captures surroundings (5–10m, AI noise filtering); when the earphones are worn, the same action records both in-ear audio and your voice.
Transcribe & Summarize – Shadow AI delivers complete transcriptions and key summaries quickly.
Interact – Users can ask follow-up questions, search notes, generate & play podcasts, and generate slide deck, landing pages, PRDs and more instantly.

Specifications

Form Factor: True Wireless Stereo (TWS) design with precision engineering

Microphones: Dual directional ENC + AEC mics and charging-case array for 10 m capture

Connectivity: 4G eSIM, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 6.0 seamless switching

Transcription: Full audio transcribed quickly with 4G

Languages: 100 + languages with real-time written translation

Battery & Charging: 40 h music play total use • 25 h recording • 15 min charge = 3h use

Storage: 32 GB local storage (≈ 2000 + h of audio) • Unlimited cloud sync

Standby Time: 45 days Bluetooth/Wi-Fi• 7 days active 4G standby

Weight: 7 g each • 65 g with case

Durability: IPX4 splash-proof and daily wear ready

Security: End-to-end encrypted cloud storage • Manual control of recordings

Compatibility: iOS / Android

Colors: Navy Blue and Pearl White

Pricing & Availability

TicNote Pods launches globally on March 27, 2026 at 7:00 AM EST.

Retail MSRP:

TicNote Pods (4G Version): $299

TicNote Pods (WiFi Version, coming soon): $249

Available in:

Navy Blue
Pearl White

Each device includes 600 free transcription minutes per month, with optional subscription upgrades.

Pro Plan: $119/year – 2,100 minutes per month
Business Plan: $299/year – 6,600 minutes per month

All recordings sync automatically to TicNote Cloud, where users can search, analyze, and collaborate with Shadow Agent.

To find out more about Mobvoi: www.mobvoi.com

GODDESS OF VICTORY: NIKKE AND RAZER ANNOUNCE STYLISH “HEARTBEAT TEMPTATION” COLLABORATION

2026-03-22T00:28:25.426+01:00

Level Infinite today announced a partnership with Razer™, the world’s leading lifestyle brand for gamers. Starting March 26, the action RPG shooter Goddess of Victory: NIKKE will fuse its high-octane world with Razer’s iconic aesthetic and gaming peripherals. The collaboration features a limited-edition in-game skin, “Viper - Punky Street,” alongside a collectible physical NIKKE X Razer box available for a limited time in select regions.

To celebrate the launch of this unique collaboration, select RazerStores in North America will showcase a week-long, special promotional video of the NIKKE x Razer collab at major hubs including Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, and Miami. To top off this cool collab, a NIKKE pop-up event experience will take place at RazerStores in Los Angeles and London that includes immersive in-game decor, professional cosplay interactions, and exclusive in-store merch! Please follow Goddess of Victory: NIKKE on social media as more dates and details will be revealed on March 24!

Watch the NIKKE x Razer collab trailer HERE.
Download assets of the NIKKE x Razer collab HERE.

Commanders across the globe can acquire the limited Edition Viper - Punky Street skin, a stylish new outfit based on the classic Razer aesthetic complete with a signature Razer headset, and voice lines exclusive to this collaboration. Gamers can secure the skin by unlocking the Punky Street Pass or using the redemption key included in the Limited NIKKE x Razer Collab Gift Box. Players can snag a free collaboration Avatar Frame & Title by participating in game events and completing specific tasks.

Exclusive “Heartbeat Temptation” collab gift boxes are also available during the event. This slick NIKKE x Razer collab package is available exclusively in China, Japan and South Korea via official flagship stores on Tmall, Amazon Japan, and Naver Korea. Gift boxes contain:

Custom Peripherals
- Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT (White): Includes DIY stickers to match the in-game skin.
- Razer Orochi V2 Wireless Mouse: Custom Viper collaboration edition featuring a Q-version Viper graffiti design on the shell.
Exclusive Merchandise:
- Viper Acrylic Standee ×1
- Reflective/Glow-in-the-dark Badges (Buttons) ×2
  Headset DIY Sticker Sheet ×1
- In-game Item (Skin) Redemption Card ×1

For more details on the NIKKE x Razer collaboration, stay tuned to the official NIKKE social media channels and the Razer community pages.

Downloaded over 45 million times since launch, GODDESS OF VICTORY: NIKKE is available globally for PC, iOS, and Android mobile devices. GODDESS OF VICTORY: NIKKE continues to deliver regular updates and content expansions that keep players immersed in the game’s evolving narrative. Download the game on the iOS App Store, Google Play, and Windows PC.

To learn more about GODDESS OF VICTORY: NIKKE, go to: http://nikke-en.com

XPPen Launches Artist Pro 27 (Gen 2), an All-Round Drawing Display with Master-Level Color Performance and X-Touch Solution

2026-03-21T23:05:54.615+01:00

XPPen, a global leader in digital art innovation, today unveiled its new flagship drawing display, the Artist Pro 27 (Gen 2). Combining professional-grade color performance with advanced X-Touch solution on a 27-inch 4K 120Hz screen, this flagship model offers a transformative creative experience, enabling professional creators to push the boundaries of their craft with stunning color fidelity and an intuitive, efficient workflow.

"At XPPen, we remain committed to advancing digital art technology and empowering creators with professional tools and premium drawing experience," said Brian Huang, Marketing Director at XPPen. "Positioned as Color Master Touchscreen Drawing Display, the Artist Pro 27 (Gen 2) sets a new standard for flagship displays, offering large-format workspace, high performance, and efficient workflow for professional creators. It completes XPPen's premium professional lineup with the Artist Pro series spanning from 14 to 27 inches, offering creators a clear upgrade path as their ambitions grow."

Master-Level Color Performance: Rich Fidelity

The Artist Pro 27 (Gen 2) supports 1.07 billion colors with 99% Adobe RGB, 99% sRGB, and 97% Display P3 color gamut coverage, delivering master-level color fidelity and nuanced gradations of light and shadow for artwork that feels true to life. Calman Verified and factory-calibrated to Delta E < 1, it ensures out-of-box accuracy and professional color performance—further supported by the included XPPen ColorMaster color management software.

Advanced X-Touch Solution: Intelligent Workflow

The Artist Pro 27 (Gen 2) integrates the advanced X-Touch Solution, a cutting-edge touch control system designed for intuitive and responsive interaction. With support for Windows and macOS touch gestures, creators can get up and running from day one. Ten-point multi-touch enables precise on-screen actions—including pinch-to-zoom, rotation, and fluid canvas navigation—ensuring every movement responds with accuracy and immediacy. Fully customizable gestures, together with user-defined non-touch zones that effectively prevent accidental touches, allow creators to tailor controls to their workflow, minimizing interruptions and maintaining creative flow.

27-Inch 4K 120Hz Mega Display: Immersive Clarity

For professionals who think and create at scale, the 27-inch display offers an expansive workspace that allows creators to view their entire artwork without constant zooming or panning. With 4K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate and 5ms response time, it delivers exceptional clarity while significantly reducing brush latency and minimizing motion blur during fast strokes.

Its new-gen luminous etched glass, measuring just 0.7 mm thin, increases light transmittance by 30% compared to previous generations, delivering a cleaner, brighter surface that retains a natural paper-like feel while reducing fingerprints and minimizing glare. Meanwhile, TÜV SÜD Low Blue Light certification ensures long-lasting comfort during extended creative sessions.

Studio-Grade Integration: Professional Efficiency

Designed for professional creators and creative studios, the display ships with a comprehensive suite of accessories to enhance user experience and workflow. Its adjustable stand supports single-handed angle adjustment from 16° to 72° for all-day ergonomic comfort. Dual X3 Pro styli—the X3 Pro Slim Stylus and the X3 Pro Smart Chip Stylus—each deliver industry-leading 16,384 pressure levels, enabling natural and precise control across the full range of stroke variation. A wireless keyboard features a 10×4 grid of fully customizable shortcut keys for instant access to essential commands. With broad compatibility across Windows, macOS, Android, ChromeOS, and Linux, the Artist Pro 27 (Gen 2) integrates seamlessly into any creative setup, whether switching between devices or software.

Pricing and Availability

The XPPen Artist Pro 27 (Gen 2) will be available starting March 20, 2026, priced at $1,899. For more information, please visit: https://www.xp-pen.com/product/artist-pro-27-gen-2.html (Pricing and availability may vary by region).

SOURCE XPPen Technology Co., Ltd.

Claude, ChatGPT, Cursor, and Other AI Agents Can Now Take Direct Action on WordPress.com Sites Through Natural Conversation

2026-03-21T22:58:32.270+01:00

WordPress.com, Automattic's hosted website platform built on the open source WordPress software, today announced the launch of new write capabilities for its Model Context Protocol (MCP) server. The update enables AI agents — including Claude, ChatGPT, and Cursor — to create, edit, and manage content on WordPress.com sites directly through natural conversation, on behalf of users.

The launch puts AI agents to work on a platform where 70 million new posts are published every month, making WordPress.com one of the largest and most active content platforms on the web, and a natural fit for agentic site management.

"WordPress.com is where millions of people build and manage their sites every day, and more and more of them are using AI tools like Claude and even OpenClaw to get work done," said Ronnie Burt, AI Product Lead, WordPress.com. "Now those tools can actually take action — draft a post, build a page, manage comments — directly on your site, through conversation. You stay in control the whole time."

Building on a Year of AI Innovation

Today's announcement builds on a series of AI features introduced on WordPress.com over the past year. In April 2025, WordPress.com introduced its AI-powered website builder that lets users generate a fully designed, content-ready website from a prompt, bringing anyone from idea to live site in minutes. Earlier this year, WordPress.com launched the WordPress AI Assistant, an in-editor tool embedded directly in the editor and Media Library that helps users draft, edit, and refine content as they work, without leaving the WordPress.com environment.

In October 2025, WordPress.com extended that momentum to the agentic web with the launch of its MCP server, giving AI agents like Claude, ChatGPT, and Cursor their first window into WordPress.com site content, analytics, and settings. WordPress.com users can now surface site insights and reduce time spent navigating the dashboard.

With today's addition of write capabilities, WordPress.com has extended the agentic web. AI agents can now actively build and manage websites. Where the original MCP server let AI agents read, the new write and content authoring capabilities let them act: drafting posts, editing pages, and managing content on behalf of users, all with explicit user confirmation at every step.

What Users Can Do

With WordPress.com's new MCP write capabilities, users can instruct their AI agent to:

Draft and publish blog posts and pages
Edit and update existing content
Create new pages and manage site content
And more — all through natural conversation, without touching the WordPress.com dashboard

Built With Safety in Mind

WordPress.com designed the feature with clear safeguards to ensure users remain in control at all times. Updates require explicit user confirmation before any action is taken, and changes to already-published content are clearly flagged as going live immediately. The MCP server is opt-in only, with nothing enabled by default. Users can choose which capabilities are active, site by site. This commitment to user safety is core to how Automattic builds across its platform.

What Is MCP?

The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is an open standard that allows AI agents to connect to external tools and services in a structured, reliable way. WordPress.com's MCP server provides MCP-compatible AI agents with a direct connection to WordPress.com sites, enabling them to read content, write drafts, make edits, and manage pages through a standardized interface, secured with OAuth 2.1.

WordPress.com is built on WordPress, the open source software that powers more than 40% of the web. That means AI agents using WordPress.com's MCP capabilities are building on the most widely-used publishing platform on the web.

A Platform Built to Scale

WordPress.com is part of Automattic, whose ecosystem serves hundreds of billions of page views a year. WordPress.com users publish 70 million new posts every month, 1,600 new blog posts every minute, or 26 per second. That scale makes WordPress.com one of the most important destinations for AI-powered content management on the web.

Start Building Today

WordPress.com's MCP write capabilities are available now. The feature is compatible with any MCP-enabled AI agent, including Claude, ChatGPT, and Cursor, and works on all paid WordPress.com plans. The MCP server is available to all paid WordPress.com plan users at no additional cost.

For more information, visit wordpress.com/blog.

SOURCE WordPress.com

ROKFORM Launches Five Power Products To Expand Its Mobile Device Charging Ecosystem

2026-03-18T22:36:29.848+01:00

ROKFORM announced the launch of five new power accessories designed to keep phones, tablets, and laptops charged at home, on the road, and around the world. The lineup, which ranges from $19.99 to $99.99, includes wall, car, and wireless charging options.

"Our customers already trust ROKFORM to protect and mount their devices, and now we're giving them the same level of quality and reliability when it comes to keeping those devices charged," said Jeff Whitten, ROKFORM CEO. "These five accessories help customers keep their devices powered at their desk, in their car, or halfway around the world, all within one ecosystem that's designed to seamlessly work together."

Accessories include:

Car Screen Phone Mount Charger ($99.99): Designed for vehicles with large center screens, including Tesla vehicles, the mount combines MagSafe®-compatible magnets with 15W wireless charging and a fully-adjustable viewing angle for hands-free navigation and calls.
PowerTrip™ Travel Charger Kit ($99.99): Built for fast, reliable power in a compact setup, the kit bundles a 5,000mAh power bank, a 65W fast charger, two USB-C cables, and international plug adapters for the U.K., EU, and Australia in a protective zippered bag.
3-in-1 Foldable Wireless Charger ($99.99): A foldable charging stand that powers an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously, delivering up to 15W of fast wireless charging in a compact, travel-ready design.
PowerTrip™ 65W GaN Fast Charger ($49.99): Designed for serious power in a compact form, this GaN-powered wall charger delivers up to 65W of fast charging for phones, tablets, and laptops. Ideal for desk setups, travel bags, or everyday wall charging, it features two UBC-C ports and one USB-A port for versatile multi-device charging.
30W Dual USB-C Car Charger ($19.99): Delivers fast, reliable power to two USB-C devices at the same time in a compact design built for cars, trucks, and life on the move.

The full line of power accessories is available on rokform.com.

SOURCE ROKFORM

BAE Systems to modernize Advanced Defensive System for the U.S. Air Force U-2 reconnaissance aircraft

2026-03-18T00:33:12.069+01:00

BAE Systems (LON: BA) was awarded a contract by Robins Air Force Base in Georgia to support and sustain the AN/ALQ-221 Advanced Defensive System (ADS) for the U.S. Air Force's U-2 Dragon Lady surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft. Under the contract, BAE Systems will provide continuous field service support for the aircraft's electronic warfare (EW) system, complete repairs to maintain system availability, and provide software updates so it can detect and engage new threats.

The AN/ALQ-221 system provides integrated radar warning and electronic countermeasures that equip U-2 pilots with situational awareness and self-protection capabilities. The system includes long-range sensors and onboard processing, enabling the U-2 to operate in contested airspace and provide vital intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance information to decision-makers.

"The Advanced Defensive System for the U-2 is part of BAE Systems' long legacy in electronic warfare," said Tim Angulas, U-2 product area director at BAE Systems. "Evolving, modernizing, and sustaining EW systems is in our DNA. Our efforts ensure they can operate effectively throughout their lifecycles."

BAE Systems has continuously matured and advanced the ADS during the system's 60-year lifespan, and it is an integral part of the U-2's modernization program. The aircraft's unique, modular design and open avionics architecture allow BAE Systems to quickly develop, test, and field capabilities to support battlespace operations.

Sustaining the U-2's defensive suite is part of BAE Systems' culture of EW excellence. The company is a leader in the field, with decades of experience designing and manufacturing state-of-the-art systems that counter the world's most advanced threats. Its deep domain expertise, talented engineering workforce, and sophisticated manufacturing capabilities support its drive to deliver the EW systems of tomorrow that will dominate the electromagnetic spectrum.

The AN/ALQ-221 Advanced Defensive System is sustained by experts at BAE Systems' facility in Nashua, New Hampshire and by dedicated field service representatives.

For more information, visit: www.baesystems.com/ew.

SOURCE BAE Systems, Inc.

Petlibro Expands Access to AI-Powered Luma Smart Litter Box with PetSmart Launch

2026-03-17T23:54:15.421+01:00

Smart pet care is no longer a novelty—it's the new standard. Petlibro is expanding into select PetSmart stores and online, with broader distribution planned later this year. The expansion brings its newest innovation, the Luma Smart Litter Box, to more pet parents, further expanding access to AI-powered cat care that delivers real-time waste insights and greater peace of mind.

Petlibro's growing presence at PetSmart reflects rising demand for smart pet care technology. The Luma Smart Litter Box builds on the brand's broader portfolio of app-connected products designed to surface the hidden signals in a pet's daily health.

More consumers are tracking their own health and wellness, and that proactive mindset is extending to their pets. Pet parents increasingly expect products that do more than automate routines. They want visibility into patterns, behaviors, and potential health changes. Petlibro's ecosystem of intelligent products is designed to meet that need, providing real-time data that helps pet parents stay informed and connected.

Launched in November, the Luma Smart Litter Box ($599.99) pairs AI-powered visual detection with four-layer safety protection to provide hands-free cleaning and advanced monitoring for up to 10 cats. The system delivers 24/7 odor control, tracks individual visits, distinguishes between waste types, and alerts owners to changes in usage patterns through the Petlibro app, turning daily litter box activity into actionable insights.

"This expansion represents another important step in our mission to revolutionize pet care," said York Wu, CEO of Petlibro. "Our partnership with PetSmart expands access to intelligent pet technology as we continue building an ecosystem designed to help keep pets healthier and families better informed."

The Luma Smart Litter Box is available now at PetSmart.com and in select PetSmart stores nationwide. To browse Petlibro's full line of products, visit www.petlibro.com.

SOURCE Petlibro

IBM Completes Acquisition of Confluent, Making Real Time Data the Engine of Enterprise AI and Agents

2026-03-17T23:47:18.593+01:00

IBM completed its acquisition of Confluent, Inc., the data streaming platform that more than 6,500 enterprises, including 40% of the Fortune 500, rely on to power real-time operations. Together, IBM and Confluent deliver a smart data platform that gives every AI model, agent, and automated workflow the real-time, trusted data needed to operate across on-premises and hybrid cloud environments at scale.

As enterprises move from AI experimentation to production, the critical barrier to success is the data — clean, governed, continuously refreshed —and delivered at the speed and scale AI demands. Yet in most enterprises today, data remains siloed across systems and environments, arriving hours or days after it is generated. Together IBM and Confluent provide the fabric through which AI agents can access the information they need, with the controls, governance, and real-time velocity to put information to work safely and at scale.

IDC estimates that more than one billion new logical applications will emerge by 2028 [1], driven by a new generation of AI that will only deliver value if the data behind it is live, trusted, and continuously flowing. That scale of demand requires a new kind of data foundation, and IBM and Confluent address that challenge directly, giving enterprises a single, governed platform where AI models and agents can operate with context, in real time, across every environment.

"Transactions happen in milliseconds, and AI decisions need to happen just as fast. With Confluent, we are giving clients the ability to move trusted data continuously across their entire operation so their AI models and agents can act on what is happening right now, not on data that is hours old," said Rob Thomas, Senior Vice President, IBM Software and Chief Commercial Officer. "Together, IBM and Confluent give enterprises the foundation for a new operating model - one where AI runs on live data, drives decisions in real time, and delivers value at scale."

Built on Apache Kafka®, the standard for data streaming, Confluent is already embedded in the operational fabric of the world's largest enterprises, with a customer base that spans industries from financial services and healthcare to manufacturing and retail.

Michelin relies on Confluent to manage real-time inventory across a supply chain spanning 170 countries — achieving 35% cost savings without sacrificing visibility or control [2].
L'Oréal uses Confluent to stream real-time product and inventory updates across internal systems and third-party applications, helping the company respond faster to changing consumer demand [3].
BMW Group streams IoT data from 30+ production sites and its global sales network in real time, connecting factory floor systems and cloud applications across the organization [4].
Ticketmaster streams ticket inventory, sales, and customer activity in real time across hundreds of systems, reducing development friction and powering machine learning at scale [5].

"Since our founding, Confluent's mission has been to set the world's data in motion, making data streaming as foundational to the enterprise as the database. Joining IBM allows us to accelerate that mission at a much greater scale," said Jay Kreps, CEO and Co-founder of Confluent. "IBM's global reach and deep enterprise relationships will help us go further, faster. As enterprises move from experimenting with AI to running their business on it, helping data flow continuously across the business has never mattered more. I'm excited to see what we'll build together."

IBM and Confluent Product Synergies
Today's announcement brings immediate integrations across the IBM portfolio, including:

AI-Ready, Real-Time Data. Enterprise AI technologies need current context, not yesterday's data. Confluent streams live operational events directly into watsonx.data – ensuring every model, agent, and workflow runs on continuously updated enterprise data, with lineage, policy enforcement, and quality controls included.
Activate the modernized mainframe in the AI era. The most critical business transactions in the world have long run on IBM Z. With IBM Z and Confluent, organizations can identify and drive real-time events at the transaction source as well as stream transactional data directly for real-time analytics, automation, and AI workflows. This enables mission-critical transaction processing to integrate tightly with the rest of the business in real-time, at enterprise scale.
Event-Driven Automation Across Hybrid Environments. IBM MQ and IBM webMethods Hybrid Integration form the foundation of enterprise event-driven automation, combining trusted transactional messaging with modern integration and orchestration across hybrid environments. Confluent extends this platform with high-scale event streaming, enabling applications, APIs, and AI agents to sense and act on business events in real time.

With Confluent, IBM Consulting and IBM partners, will help clients build the data foundation their AI needs — live, governed, and continuously flowing across every system and environment.

"The shift from AI experimentation to production deployment has exposed a critical gap in enterprise data architecture: the inability to deliver trusted, real-time data to the systems that need it most. AI agents and automated workflows don't operate on historical data; they require live operational signals, continuously flowing across the enterprise as events occur," said Sanjeev Mohan, Principal Analyst, SanjMo. "IBM has made significant progress assembling a portfolio that addresses both sides of this equation: governance and infrastructure for data at rest, and a platform for data in motion. For enterprises whose architecture and priorities align with this approach, it is a compelling stack worth evaluating."

Under the terms of the agreement, IBM has acquired all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Confluent for $31 per share in cash, representing an enterprise value of approximately $11 billion.

For more information about today's news, please visit https://www.ibm.com/products/confluent

SOURCE IBM

IK Multimedia Releases ARC ON·EAR Version 1.3

2026-03-16T23:57:00.003+01:00

IK Multimedia announces ARC ON·EAR version 1.3, a firmware and software update that expands headphone compatibility, enhances workflow, and refines its virtual monitoring engine for even greater confidence when mixing on headphones.

ARC ON·EAR combines precise headphone correction with advanced physical modeling of studio monitors to simulate the experience of mixing in a professional control room - anywhere.

What's New in Version 1.3

Version 1.3 adds new headphone profiles, workflow enhancements, and updates to the monitoring engine.

Expanded Headphone Support

12 new calibration profiles have been added, including:
Apple AirPods Max
Audeze S20
HEDDphone D1
ARC ON·EAR now supports hundreds of headphone models with precise calibration measured on IK's reference rigs and matched to the device's built-in amplifier circuit.

Faster Workflow

New usability improvements streamline daily operation:
Navigation arrows for quick headphone or virtual speaker switching
Smart search in the Headphone Browser
Always-visible headphone name for easier identification
Double-click selection in the browser
Presets can now be copied, pasted, moved, and restored to default
Enhanced Monitoring
The virtual monitoring engine has been improved with a better ambience algorithm to create more natural depth and spatial realism. Other updates include an enhanced frequency-response graph with toggleable curves and quicker User Trim controls.

Pricing and Availability

The ARC ON·EAR version 1.3 firmware and software update is available for free to registered users via the IK Product Manager.

ARC ON·EAR is available from the IK Multimedia online store and IK authorized dealers worldwide:
ARC ON·EAR $/€249.99* intro price (reg. $/€299.99)

For more information:
www.ikmultimedia.com/arconear
www.ikmultimedia.com/arconear/video

WIRobotics Selected for the Physical AI Fellowship Powered by AWS, NVIDIA, and MassRobotics

2026-03-15T00:55:00.001+01:00

WIRobotics today announced it has been selected for the second cohort of the Physical AI Fellowship, a virtual program powered by Amazon Web Services (AWS) Startups and NVIDIA Inception that helps high-potential robotics startups build, refine, and scale physical AI solutions.

Following the success of the inaugural Fall 2025 cohort, the 2026 cohort brings together nine promising physical AI startups across agriculture, construction and renewable energy, industrial automation, retail and logistics, robotics data infrastructure, teleoperation, and humanoid robotics applications.

The Physical AI Fellowship provides hands-on technical guidance, compute resources, and go-to-market opportunities to help teams mature promising prototypes into reliable, real-world deployments. Fellows receive support from scientists and experts at the AWS Generative AI Innovation Center, AWS credits, and NVIDIA resources, along with access to MassRobotics' facilities and its broader network in the robotics community.

This opportunity will support WIRobotics' work to develop advanced humanoid robots that combine high-dexterity manipulation with AI-driven physical interaction for real-world environments. With AWS credits and expert guidance, NVIDIA's physical AI stack, and MassRobotics' testbed and network, WIRobotics will refine and deploy its humanoid robotics systems for real-world industrial, logistics, and service applications while validating performance in practical settings.

"We are honored that WIRobotics has been selected for the Physical AI Fellowship as the only humanoid robotics company in the cohort," said Yong-Jae Kim, Co-CEO of WIRobotics. "By combining humanoid robotics technologies capable of human-like physical interaction with our AI expertise, we believe this will be a meaningful opportunity to explore new possibilities in Physical AI."

Each Fellow will receive $200,000 in AWS credits, embedded support from the AWS Generative AI Innovation Center (GenAIIC) scientists and engineers and access to AWS' cloud computing and AI technologies, access to NVIDIA's physical AI stack including the NVIDIA Isaac frameworks and NVIDIA Cosmos world foundation models (plus free self-paced courses, hardware/software discounts and discounted instructor-led workshops from NVIDIA Training) via the NVIDIA Inception program, and ecosystem support from MassRobotics.

The Fellowship culminates in high-visibility showcases at AWS, NVIDIA, and MassRobotics events, including AWS re:Invent 2026.

For more information on the Physical AI Fellowship, visit https://www.massrobotics.org

TECNO Unveils the World's Thinnest Modular Smartphone Ecosystem Concept

2026-03-11T17:06:00.009+01:00

AI-driven innovative technology brand TECNO is set to unveil its groundbreaking Modular Magnetic Interconnection Technology at MWC 2026. This concept, embodied by TECNO Modular Phone, represents TECNO's pioneering exploration of the next-generation form of smartphones, where hardware expansion is instantaneous through magnetic attachment and intelligent connectivity. Designed to bridge the gap between escalating AI computing demands and the spatial constraints of modern smartphones, the platform will allow users to transform their devices into modular powerhouses. Attendees will witness a customizable modular suite, enabling the seamless attachment and removal of slim, high-performance modules tailored to individual needs.

Unlike traditional smartphones locked into fixed feature sets, TECNO's modular system offers ultra-thin, flexible modules that empower creators and professionals to tailor their devices to any scenario. This reconfigurable vision is embodied in two distinct design interpretations of the Modular Phone. The ATOM edition of TECNO Modular Phone follows the philosophy of "Rational Order with Personal Expression," featuring a clean silver-aluminum body and signature red accents. The MODA edition of TECNO Modular Phone offers a bold, geek-inspired aesthetic. Both models frame modularity as a platform for lasting personal choice, embodying TECNO's commitment to technology that grows with its users.

@tomsguide Build-a-phone is a thing now, apparently 🤔 Tecno's modular phone concept starts with an super thin phone and can be configured to what you need, whether it's more battery or different camera lenses 🔋📸 Depending on your mods, the phone might not end up being all that thin anymore, but is that a fair trade-off for flexible accessory swaps 👀 Demo: Tecno Modular Phone Concept / Modular Magnetic Interconnection Technology @ MWC 2026 #tecnophone #modular #cooltech #phoneaccessories #smartphone ♬ Technology, inorganic cool, techno 10 minutes(998935) - 8.864

"We believe the ultimate goal of technology is not to create a static masterpiece, but to offer an extension of human freedom. By pioneering this modular architecture, we are breaking the constraints of fixed hardware and returning the power of choice to the user," said Leo Li, TECNO Product Head of Modular Magnetic Interconnection Technology. "This is more than a leap in connectivity; it is an experiment in mobile liberation, where the device is no longer defined by its factory form, but by the user's intent in every moment."

A Moment-To-Moment Modular Ecosystem

Built on TECNO's Modular Magnetic Interconnection Technology, the ecosystem currently features around ten high-performance modules, designed to meet users wherever they are in life and evolve alongside their shifting needs and surroundings. Whether capturing professional photography, gaming, communicating off-grid, or extending battery life, the modular system offers unmatched freedom to configure a personalized stack.

The ultra-thin POWER BANK effectively doubles usable power, supplying energy seamlessly to both the smartphone and attached accessories. Complementing this is the ACTION CAMERA, which unlocks new creative workflows and shooting angles without compromising the phone's lightness. For professional imaging demands, TECNO's TELEPHOTO LENS acts as a standalone system using the phone's display as a viewfinder, providing low-latency live previews and instant captures. This Customizable Modular Suite is not just a collection of accessories, but a dynamic toolkit, allowing users to carry only what they need, when they need it.

Innovative Design and Effortless Connectivity

Central to TECNO's modular concept is a breakthrough in ultra-thin industrial design that redefines how expandable hardware feels in daily use. The base smartphone measures just 4.9mm thick, with the POWER BANK at an ultra-slim 4.5mm. Even when combined, the total thickness remains comparable to typical smartphones, ensuring modular expansion feels natural, preserving portability and simplicity.

The smartphone features a high-quality glass back panel with a laminated anti-glare treatment, creating a soft, matte finish, while a polished metal frame adds durability and refined visual contrast. Subtle lines across the phone's back divide it into eight modular zones, guiding accessory placement and alignment without sacrificing the clean aesthetic.

A hybrid connection architecture supports this design, featuring a precision-engineered rectangular magnetic array for secure, intuitive module attachment, paired with physical pogo-pin connectors for efficient, low-heat power delivery. Data transmission seamlessly switches among Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and millimeter-wave (mmWave) communication, enabling higher bandwidth and lower-latency interaction. This invisible, automatic process allows users to enjoy instant pairing, freeing them from technical complexity to focus on their experience.

Building a Modular Platform for the Future

TECNO's Modular Magnetic Interconnection Technology is designed as a scalable platform built to evolve with future innovations. By establishing a consistent physical and connectivity foundation, TECNO opens possibilities for expanded modular experiences across AI-powered tools, storage expansion, lifestyle-focused accessories, and beyond. While the interface is proprietary, TECNO envisions the potential for future solutions that extend beyond its ecosystem, enabling broader compatibility and utility across use cases.

Presented as a concept platform at MWC 2026, the modular ecosystem demonstrates TECNO's long-term design thinking and commitment to technology that is adaptable, personal, and responsive to real-world needs, as technologies, materials, and ecosystems continue to mature.

SOURCE TECNO MOBILE LTD

Monitor the Situation: Real-Time Monitoring of Events in Eastern Europe and the Middle East

2026-03-10T17:39:00.001+01:00

In today’s fast-moving digital world, information about global events spreads quickly. However, keeping track of reliable updates from different regions can still be difficult. A platform called Monitor the Situation aims to simplify this process by offering a real-time monitoring dashboard that tracks important developments across the globe.

The website combines data from various open sources and displays them on an interactive map, allowing users to quickly see where events are happening and follow updates as they unfold.

One of the main sections of the platform focuses on Eastern Europe. This page aggregates updates from news outlets, social media, and other publicly available information sources. Instead of browsing multiple websites for updates, users can monitor developments in one centralized dashboard.

You can explore the Eastern Europe monitoring page here:
https://monitor-the-situation.com/eastern-europe

In addition to Eastern Europe, the platform also provides monitoring tools for the Middle East, a region where geopolitical developments can change rapidly. The Middle East monitoring page highlights updates related to political tensions, security developments, and other major regional events.

You can view the Middle East monitoring page here:
https://monitor-the-situation.com/middle-east

These monitoring dashboards can be particularly useful for journalists, analysts, researchers, and anyone interested in international affairs. By visualizing updates on a live map, the platform helps users quickly identify where important developments are occurring.

Another advantage of Monitor the Situation is that it integrates multiple types of data, including news feeds, social media updates, and various tracking tools. This broader context can help users better understand complex situations that involve multiple countries or rapidly changing conditions.

Platforms like Monitor the Situation are part of a growing trend of open-source intelligence tools that collect publicly available information and present it in a clear and accessible way. As global events continue to evolve quickly, tools that provide real-time monitoring can help people stay informed and gain a broader perspective on what is happening around the world.

SIXPACK-powered 2026 Dodge Charger R/T Delivers Most Entry-level Horsepower of any Muscle Car, Expands Charger Multi-energy Lineup

2026-03-10T15:12:00.002+01:00

Dodge continues its mission to deliver horsepower and torque with the gas-powered 2026 Dodge Charger R/T, solidly outperforming the previous generation.

Powered by the new 3.0L twin-turbo SIXPACK standard-output (S.O.) engine, the next-gen 2026 Dodge Charger R/T packs 420 horsepower and 468 lb.-ft. of torque, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds and covering the quarter-mile in 12.9 seconds.

Compared with the 5.7-liter HEMI®-powered R/T it replaces, the SIXPACK-powered 2026 Charger R/T adds 50 horsepower (+13.5%) and 73 lb.-ft. of torque (+18.5%) and cuts 0-60 mph by 0.5 seconds and the quarter-mile by 0.6 seconds.

Dodge expands award-winning Charger lineup with the standard all-wheel-drive (AWD), 420-horsepower, SIXPACK-powered 2026 Charger R/T
Charger R/T's 3.0L twin-turbo SIXPACK standard-output (S.O.) engine delivers 420 horsepower, 468 lb.-ft of torque, and runs the quarter-mile in 12.9 and 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds
Compared with the 5.7-liter HEMI®-powered Charger R/T it replaces, the SIXPACK-powered Charger R/T adds 50 horsepower (+13.5%) and 73 lb.-ft. of torque (+18.5%) and cuts 0-60 mph by 0.5 seconds and the quarter-mile by 0.6 seconds
SIXPACK-powered four-door Charger models are the world's only four-door muscle cars, offering hidden-hatch flexibility that provides increased cargo space compared to the previous generation
The 2026 Dodge Charger R/T is America's most affordable AWD muscle car; it has a starting U.S. MSRP of $49,995 and is open for orders now (all prices exclude tax, titles and fees)
New Charger R/T joins the SIXPACK-powered Scat Pack and 550-horsepower and 670-horsepower all-electric Charger Daytona Scat Pack, the quickest and most powerful muscle car in the world
Eighth-generation Dodge Charger celebrates 60 years in 2026, available with either two or four doors

"The Charger R/T is a muscle car that can double as an everyday driver, with an award-winning interior and best in-class cargo volume," said Matt McAlear, Dodge CEO. "This new Charger R/T significantly outperforms the previous 5.7-liter HEMI Charger R/T: it's quicker, faster and more capable."

SOURCE Stellantis

Electra Named as Inaugural Participant in Department of Transportation's Advanced Air Mobility Program

2026-03-10T15:04:00.005+01:00

The U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today announced that Virginia-based Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra) is the premier private company participant in the Trump Administration's inaugural Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing and Advanced Air Mobility Integration Pilot Program (eIPP) alongside state partners.

The program calls for the formation of public-private partnerships with state and local governments and private sector companies to develop new frameworks and regulations to accelerate the safe deployment of advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft and to put Electra's aircraft into demo operations with those public partners.

"This is an historic moment in Advanced Air Mobility, as Electra stands shoulder to shoulder with others in the space to chart a course that will transform the way we travel," said Marc Allen, CEO of Electra. "Our entire team thanks President Trump, Secretary Duffy, and Administrator Bedford for their visionary leadership to accelerate the adoption of AAM."

"This Administration is opening the door for an American company to demonstrate how hybrid-electric propulsion works at scale, to reimagine how we use the skies, and to change the way that people get to where they want to go. It's American innovation at its best, and it showcases how Electra's Ultra Short has become an essential part of the AAM landscape."

Electra will work with public and private partners on groundbreaking demonstrations including connecting urban and regional destinations in Florida and linking metropolitan centers in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The company also supported the submission from the State of Louisiana.

Opening a New Era
Electra is harnessing hybrid-electric propulsion and breakthrough design to develop an airplane with unmatched performance, including the ability to safely take off and land in just 150 feet. It's a whole new way to travel -- simple, fast, and reliable.

Electra's groundbreaking Ultra Short aircraft is the key to Direct Aviation, which gives people the freedom to safely travel from where they are to where they want to go. Direct Aviation enables people to avoid the hassle of long drives and clogged airports. This includes business travelers who want to slash the time it takes to get to a conference, families trying to maximize a weekend getaway, or grandparents who want to be there for the moments that matter without turning the trip into an all-day ordeal.

Electra is doing this while meeting the Rule of Six – six essential requirements to make Advanced Air Mobility a reality: expanded access, quiet aviation, meaningful payload, practical range, and uncompromising safety at an affordable price.

Electra was selected to participate in the following demonstrations:

In Florida, Electra is collaborating on an Ultra Short Access Point demonstration that highlights how AAM aircraft can connect dense urban cores with regional destinations. The proposal evaluates candidate AAM routes across the state and leverages partnerships with Vertiports by Atlantic and regional airline operators to demonstrate practical, scalable operations. The initiative is being led by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).
Electra is also supporting a proposed New Jersey to New York City route in partnership with infrastructure providers including Signature Aviation and Vertiports by Atlantic. This use case demonstrates how Ultra Short aircraft can connect major metropolitan centers using existing heliport infrastructure, offering a faster, lower-noise alternative to both ground congestion and conventional aviation options. The initiative is being led by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ).
In coordination with a Pennsylvania-led coalition, Electra is advancing a proposed Ultra Short Access Point demonstration linking Atlantic City to regional destinations, including feeder service into Philadelphia (KPHL). This effort focuses on using existing aviation assets—such as state test sites and medical centers—to prove how regional airline partners and Ultra Short aircraft can unlock underserved 50 to 500 mile trips. The initiative is being led by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).

Electra is also a supportive partner of the initiative led by the State of Louisiana through the company's partnership with Bristow Group Inc., the global leader in innovative and sustainable vertical flight solutions.

SOURCE Electra.aero

Garmin unveils 360-degree sonar with revolutionary Spy Pole

2026-03-10T14:55:00.001+01:00

Garmin (NYSE: GRMN), the world's largest1 and most innovative marine electronics manufacturer, today announced a new 360-degree scanning sonar that lets anglers see a birds-eye view of fish and structure in every direction around the boat in 2D and 3D views—then fish that area without having to constantly rescan. This advanced sonar system includes the game-changing motorized Spy™ Pole and unlocks new underwater perspectives with unmatched integration and control.

"Garmin's new 360 sonar solution will revolutionize how anglers fish once again. The added situational awareness of 360-degree imaging – coupled with the increased precision and convenience of the Spy Pole – makes it easier than ever to search for and target fish. Layer in LiveScope™ live sonar and you have an enhanced sonar system that's second-to-none."
–Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing

See underwater imagery in every direction with 360-degree sonar

Unlock the toughest underwater hiding spots with OneVü™ sonar – crisp, clear 360-degree imagery of what's below the boat in 2D and 3D views – with the GT360UHD transducer mounted to Spy Pole.
Built-in True Motion technology seamlessly integrates with GPS to maintain the sonar's true position so anglers can move around structure without losing track of where the fish are.
Scan and store up to a football-field size of sonar imagery with a continuously updated buffer.
Customize the color, dial in the settings and engage auto, manual or constant scans with on-screen chartplotter controls on compatible Garmin chartplotters.
Add LiveScope live sonar to unlock an all-new 3D view on a single display, as well as a beam overlay to see where LiveScope is pointed in 2D mode.
Thanks to Spy Pole, anglers can take full command of their 360-degree sonar—completely independent of the trolling motor.
Wirelessly execute smooth, fast and quiet control with Spy Pole's included low-profile wireless foot control, rod-mountable gesture remote or through a dedicated control bar on a compatible Garmin chartplotter.
The GT360UHD transducer comes bundled with a 42" Spy Pole or a 49" Spy Pole for a suggested retail price of $2,999.98 and $3,199.98 respectively.

Motorized live sonar control

With Spy Pole, anglers can steer a LiveScope transducer with unmatched accuracy and initiate scans with ease; lock LiveScope sonar on any point with SpyLock™ technology or automatically sweep back and forth to find fish in SpyScan™ mode.
Securely route transducer cables through the pole shaft for ultimate cable protection.
Easily mount and dismount Spy Pole from a Force® or Force Pro trolling motor or gunnel mount (sold separately) with the quick-release system.
Synchronize the speed and direction of a Force Pro trolling motor and control the Spy Pole from the foot pedal of the trolling motor through SpyLink™ technology—and maintain control even when the trolling motor is in anchor lock.
Spy Pole is available with a 42" or 49" length for a suggested retail price of $1,999.99 and $2,199.99 respectively, and works with any LiveScope transducer.

"Since the introduction of LiveScope, anglers have been dreaming of a way to control their LiveScope independently of their trolling motor. With Spy Pole, that's now possible, and you can even control your LiveScope while in anchor lock – that's a true game changer for the way I fish."
–Justin Hamner, Garmin Pro Angler and 2024 Bassmaster Classic Champion

Garmin's new 360-degree sonar solution with Spy Pole will debut in the Garmin booth (#9204) at the 2026 Bassmaster Classic, held March 13-15 on the Tennessee River in Knoxville, Tenn. Both will be available to purchase on garmin.com starting March 13.

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for anglers, sailors, mariners and boat enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing the most innovative, highest quality, and easiest to use marine electronics the industry has ever known, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. For the 11th consecutive year, Garmin was named the Manufacturer of the Year by the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA)

SOURCE Garmin International, Inc.

Brazilian Airline Introduces Widebody Aircraft to Expand Operations to North America and Europe

2026-03-10T14:23:00.000+01:00

GOL Linhas Aéreas, Brazil's most on-time airline, announced today the introduction of widebody aircraft to its fleet with the initial delivery of up to five Airbus A330-900. With capacity for close to 300 passengers and range of up to 15 hours, the aircraft will enable the Company to begin intercontinental operations connecting Brazil to destinations in Europe and the United States. Deliveries will occur in phases throughout 2026 and 2027.

"GOL was founded 25 years ago to transform aviation in Latin America. We currently operate in 12 countries, across more than 80 bases, and carry 30 million customers every year. Now, with the introduction of widebody operations, we are taking another step forward in our evolution - expanding our horizons and creating new products and services for our customers. In doing so, we will further connect Brazil to the world, while also enabling more people to experience the beauty of our country," said Celso Ferrer, CEO of GOL.

The aircraft were recently incorporated by Abra Group, which will allocate them to GOL as part of the Group's strategy to expand long-haul connectivity from Brazil. "Abra Group was created with the purpose of expanding access to aviation, further connecting Latin America to the world. With the new A330neo aircraft operated by GOL, we will explore long-haul markets from Brazil – this is highly strategic for Abra. We are becoming even stronger by offering new route options so our customers can benefit from greater opportunities across our Group's airlines," said Adrian Neuhauser, CEO of Abra Group.

The A330neo will allow GOL to expand internationally while maintaining its focus on operational efficiency. The aircraft offers significant fuel savings per seat compared with previous generation widebodies, supporting the Company's commitment to lower operating costs and CO₂ emissions efficiency.

Together with the aircraft that will be incorporated into its fleet, GOL also announced an ACMI agreement with Wamos Air, also part of the Abra Group. The arrangement will allow the Company to expand capacity quickly on selected routes, address peak demand and ensure operational flexibility during the launch of its intercontinental services.

In the coming weeks, GOL will announce the new routes, ticket sales launch dates and additional product and service enhancements for customers.

Apple Introduces MacBook Neo — A New Budget MacBook Starting at $599

2026-03-09T17:36:00.003+01:00

Apple has unveiled the all-new MacBook Neo, a lightweight laptop designed to make the Mac experience more accessible than ever. Starting at just $599, the new device combines Apple’s aluminum design, a high-quality display, Apple silicon performance, and long battery life — positioning it as the company’s most affordable laptop to date.

The new MacBook Neo is aimed at students, families, and first-time Mac users looking for a capable everyday computer at a significantly lower price than traditional MacBook models.

Pre-orders are open now, with the laptop becoming available starting March 11.

Apple Silicon Performance with A18 Pro

At the heart of the new laptop is the Apple A18 Pro chip, the same processor architecture used in Apple’s latest mobile devices. The chip enables the MacBook Neo to handle everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming, document editing, and photo editing with ease.

Apple says the device delivers up to 50 percent faster performance in everyday tasks compared with the bestselling PC laptops powered by Intel’s Core Ultra 5 processors. The system is also designed to handle AI-powered features, offering up to three times faster performance in on-device AI workloads.

The chip includes a 5-core GPU for graphics performance and a 16-core Neural Engine that powers Apple Intelligence features and other AI-based tasks directly on the device while keeping user data private.

Like other MacBook Air-style systems, the MacBook Neo is completely fanless, meaning it operates silently.

13-Inch Liquid Retina Display

The new MacBook Neo features a 13-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2408 × 1506, 500 nits of brightness, and support for one billion colors.

Apple says the display offers higher brightness and sharper resolution than many laptops in the same price range. An anti-reflective coating is also included to improve visibility in different lighting environments.

Lightweight Aluminum Design

MacBook Neo features a durable aluminum body designed to balance portability and durability. The laptop weighs just 2.7 pounds, making it easy to carry for school, work, or travel.

Apple is also introducing new color options for the device. The laptop will be available in blush, indigo, silver, and a new citrus color, making it the most colorful MacBook lineup yet.

The keyboard is color-matched with the exterior, and Apple includes matching wallpapers to complement the design.

Up to 16 Hours of Battery Life

Thanks to the efficiency of Apple silicon, the MacBook Neo offers up to 16 hours of battery life on a single charge. That makes it suitable for all-day use whether users are working, studying, or watching content.

The laptop also includes Apple’s Magic Keyboard for comfortable typing and a large Multi-Touch trackpad that supports macOS gesture controls.

Camera, Audio, and Connectivity

For video calls and online meetings, MacBook Neo features a 1080p FaceTime HD camera along with dual microphones designed to reduce background noise.

Dual side-firing speakers support Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos, providing a more immersive audio experience when watching movies or listening to music.

Connectivity options include two USB-C ports for charging and accessories, a headphone jack, support for Wi‑Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 6 for wireless devices.

macOS Tahoe and Apple Intelligence

MacBook Neo ships with macOS Tahoe, Apple’s latest operating system for Mac.

The system includes built-in apps such as Safari, Messages, Photos, and FaceTime, along with Apple Intelligence features like Writing Tools and Live Translation. The laptop also integrates seamlessly with the iPhone through Continuity features, allowing users to move tasks between devices or mirror their phone on the Mac.

Pricing and Availability

The MacBook Neo starts at $599, with education pricing beginning at $499.

The laptop is available to pre-order now in 30 countries and regions, with shipments and retail availability beginning March 11.

With its lower price, Apple silicon performance, and premium design, the MacBook Neo could become a major entry point for new users looking to join the Mac ecosystem without spending over $1,000 on a laptop.

Apple Unveils New MacBook Air with M5 with Faster Performance, More Storage, and Wi-Fi 7

2026-03-09T17:31:00.003+01:00

Apple has introduced a new generation of the MacBook Air powered by the company’s latest Apple M5 chip, delivering a significant boost in performance, expanded AI capabilities, and improved wireless connectivity.

The updated laptop, available in both 13-inch and 15-inch models, also brings double the starting storage, faster SSD speeds, and support for the latest wireless standards. Apple’s redesigned Air maintains its thin and lightweight aluminum body while continuing to focus on long battery life and portability.

Pre-orders for the new MacBook Air begin March 4, with availability starting March 11.

M5 Chip Brings Major Performance Gains

At the center of the new MacBook Air is Apple’s M5 chip, which introduces a faster CPU and a next-generation GPU architecture designed to handle both traditional computing tasks and demanding artificial intelligence workloads.

The chip includes a 10-core CPU and up to a 10-core GPU, with each graphics core featuring a dedicated Neural Accelerator designed to speed up machine learning tasks.

According to Apple, the new MacBook Air delivers up to four times faster AI performance compared to models powered by the previous generation chip, and up to 9.5 times faster AI performance than the original M1-based MacBook Air.

The M5 chip also includes enhanced shader cores and a third-generation ray-tracing engine, improving performance in graphics-intensive tasks such as 3D rendering and gaming. Memory bandwidth has also increased to 153GB/s — roughly a 28 percent improvement over the previous generation.

These upgrades translate into noticeable performance improvements in real-world workflows. Apple says the system can deliver:

Up to 6.9× faster AI video enhancement in Topaz Video AI compared with M1-based MacBook Air models
Up to 6.5× faster ray-traced rendering in Blender
Up to 2.7× faster image processing in Affinity Photo

More Storage and Faster SSD

Apple has also upgraded storage across the lineup. The new MacBook Air now starts with 512GB of storage — double the base capacity of the previous model.

The laptop can also be configured with up to 4TB of storage for the first time. Apple says the new SSD technology delivers up to twice the read and write speeds compared to the previous generation, which should help accelerate workflows involving large files, such as photo libraries and video projects.

Improved Wireless Connectivity

Another notable upgrade is the introduction of Apple’s new N1 wireless networking chip.

The chip enables support for Wi‑Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, providing faster speeds and more reliable wireless connections for streaming, cloud work, and connected accessories.

Thin Design with Premium Features

The new MacBook Air continues to focus on portability. The laptop retains its fanless aluminum design and is available in four colors: sky blue, midnight, starlight, and silver.

Both sizes feature Apple’s Liquid Retina display — 13.6 inches on the smaller model and 15.3 inches on the larger one — with up to 500 nits of brightness and support for one billion colors.

Other key features include:

Up to 18 hours of battery life
A 12-megapixel Center Stage camera with Desk View support
A three-microphone array and Spatial Audio speakers with Dolby Atmos
Two Thunderbolt 4 ports and MagSafe charging
Support for up to two external displays

Powered by macOS Tahoe and Apple Intelligence

The new MacBook Air ships with macOS Tahoe, Apple’s latest desktop operating system.

The update introduces a refreshed interface along with new features powered by Apple Intelligence, including Live Translation in Messages, improved automation tools in Shortcuts, and smarter organization in Reminders.

Apple’s Continuity ecosystem also continues to play a major role. Features like iPhone Mirroring allow users to access notifications and apps from their phone directly on their Mac.

Pricing and Availability

The 13-inch MacBook Air with M5 starts at $1,099, while the 15-inch model starts at $1,299. Education pricing lowers those starting prices to $999 and $1,199 respectively.

Pre-orders open March 4, with the new MacBook Air arriving in stores and shipping to customers beginning March 11.

With faster performance, expanded AI capabilities, more storage, and next-generation wireless connectivity, Apple’s latest MacBook Air update continues to build on the laptop’s reputation as one of the most popular portable computers on the market.