Tech

Hardware builds, software deep-dives, homelab experiments, and takes on the industry.

Work in progress. Right now this section is a live feed of tech headlines — the hardware builds, homelab write-ups, and deep-dives are still in the shop.

Latest in Tech

Updated Oct 8, 4:33 AM
Ars Technica Oct 8, 2026

Microsoft event debuts new AI-friendly hardware and Windows changes

Microsoft has unveiled a new lineup of AI-optimized hardware designed to enhance desktop performance. Alongside these devices, the company introduced significant updates to the Windows operating system to better integrate artificial intelligence features. These changes aim to embed AI capabilities directly into the user's daily computing experience.

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Ars Technica Oct 7, 2026

“Software is over”: Bold AI developer takes aim at Adobe with open source clones

A bold AI developer is challenging Adobe by creating open-source clones of its Creative Cloud suite, claiming that traditional software is becoming obsolete. These ambitious alternatives are designed to be completely free for users, offering a direct competitor to the industry giant. However, the projects remain in an early stage of development and are currently far from being fully functional or complete.

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Ars Technica Oct 7, 2026

PA measles outbreak tops 1,000 cases, largest since disease was eliminated

Pennsylvania has recorded over 1,000 measles cases, marking the state's largest outbreak since the disease was declared eliminated. As of Wednesday, officials reported 1,066 individuals linked to the current surge. This significant spike underscores a renewed public health challenge for the region.

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The Verge Oct 7, 2026

BMW’s iX4 SUV is a 428-mile defensive weapon against China’s EV takeover

The BMW iX4 is a new coupe-styled electric SUV that offers a sportier alternative to the iX3, designed to compete in a market increasingly dominated by Chinese manufacturers. Priced competitively and engineered for superior driving dynamics, the vehicle serves as a strategic response to the growing influence of EV rivals from China. With an estimated range of 428 miles, the iX4 combines advanced technology with high craftsmanship to appeal to consumers seeking premium performance. This launch highlights BMW’s ongoing effort to maintain its technological edge and brand strength amid shifting global automotive trends.

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The Verge Oct 7, 2026

Teenage Engineering’s CEO says it’ll stop making synths

Teenage Engineering CEO Jesper Kouthoofd has announced that the company will cease production of its synthesizers, including the flagship OP-1 model. This strategic pivot reflects the firm's broader identity as a sought-after design house that has previously collaborated with brands like Ikea, Nothing, and Playdate. The decision signals a shift away from music hardware toward other design-focused ventures.

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The Verge Oct 7, 2026

Android’s physical navigation buttons are back on Googlebooks, but not the way you think

While the Quick Insert and Google logo keys on Googlebooks are not new additions, having debuted on earlier Chromebook models, the latest devices feature a distinct change in their function key layout. Google has reintroduced the physical navigation buttons familiar from Android phones around 2014 by repurposing the F1, F2, and F3 keys. This design choice brings back a tactile interface element that was previously standard on mobile devices, offering users a more direct way to access specific functions on the keyboard.

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Wired Oct 8, 2026

The Best Prime Day Apple Deals (2026) Are About to Expire

Amazon's Prime Day event is closing in just a few hours, offering significant discounts on a wide range of Apple products. Shoppers can still secure reduced prices on MacBooks, iPads, AirPods, and various other accessories before the offers disappear. This final window presents a last-minute opportunity to save on popular tech items that are typically full-priced.

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Wired Oct 8, 2026

Best October Prime Day Deals to Shop Before the Sale Ends (2026)

Amazon is currently hosting its Prime Big Deal Days, offering significant markdowns on a wide range of consumer electronics and household essentials. Shoppers have a limited window to secure these discounts before the promotional event concludes. The selection includes heavily discounted items from top-rated brands, making it an ideal time to upgrade your tech setup or stock up on daily necessities.

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Wired Oct 7, 2026

The 23 Best Prime Day Deals Under $100 That You Can Still Get (2026)

This curated list highlights twenty-three top-rated products that have been personally tested and approved for quality. Each item is currently available for under $100, offering significant savings during the ongoing Prime Day event. Shoppers can secure these verified deals before the promotional window closes, making it an ideal time to upgrade their tech or household essentials without breaking the bank.

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TechCrunch Oct 7, 2026

Robot data startup Mecka AI nabs $60M from Sequoia

Mecka AI has secured $60 million in funding led by Sequoia Capital to advance its mission of training humanoid and other robotic systems. The company specializes in gathering and analyzing human motion data to improve robot capabilities. Its unique approach involves compensating individuals to record everyday tasks, providing the startup with the real-world datasets necessary for effective machine learning.

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TechCrunch Oct 7, 2026

While VCs crowd into San Francisco, Endeavor Catalyst raises $320M for founders ‘elsewhere’

Endeavor Catalyst has secured a $320 million funding round to continue supporting entrepreneurs located outside of Silicon Valley. This investment aims to counter the prevailing trend of venture capital concentrating in San Francisco by focusing on geographic diversity. A distinctive feature of the fund is that it allocates half of its profits back to the nonprofit organization responsible for identifying these out-of-region founders.

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TechCrunch Oct 7, 2026

Nous Research confirms it hit $1.5B valuation, launches AI agents for business users

Nous Research has officially confirmed a $1.5 billion valuation following the completion of a $90 million Series B funding round. Alongside this financial milestone, the company is rolling out new AI agents specifically designed for business users. The developer, known for its Hermes Agent platform, is expanding its offerings to serve the enterprise sector with these advanced tools.

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Engadget Oct 7, 2026

Rivian R2 owners can now put a live pet cam on their phone's lockscreen

Rivian has introduced a new feature for R2 owners that displays a live feed from the vehicle's interior cameras directly on their smartphone's lockscreen. This update allows drivers to monitor their pets in real time while they are away from the car. The system is designed to provide peace of mind for owners of various animals, including dogs, birds, and reptiles.

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Engadget Oct 7, 2026

The FCC proposes new mid-band spectrum auction and unlocking 800MHz for drones

The Federal Communications Commission has introduced a proposal to conduct a new auction for mid-band spectrum while simultaneously freeing up 800MHz of bandwidth for drone operations. This strategic move aims to expand wireless capabilities by allocating specific frequencies to emerging technologies. The agency is also intensifying its focus on direct-to-device services, seeking to bridge the gap between traditional cellular networks and satellite connectivity. These regulatory updates are designed to accelerate the deployment of advanced communication infrastructure across various sectors.

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Engadget Oct 7, 2026

Here's what the $6,000 Surface RTX Spark Dev Box looks like

Microsoft has unveiled the Surface RTX Spark Dev Box, a high-performance workstation priced at $6,000 that features a distinctive, blocky design resembling an oversized Lego brick. This compact unit is engineered to deliver significant computational power for developers and creative professionals who require robust GPU acceleration. Its unique aesthetic sets it apart from traditional server hardware, offering a modern look for professional workspaces.

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