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Latest in Tech

Updated Aug 21, 9:27 PM
Ars Technica Aug 21, 2026

Motorola's GrapheneOS phones will launch in 2027 priced higher than Pixels

Motorola is set to introduce GrapheneOS-powered smartphones in 2027, marking a significant expansion of the privacy-focused operating system beyond its current Pixel exclusivity. These new devices will carry a higher price tag compared to standard Pixel models, reflecting the premium nature of the enhanced security features. This launch represents a strategic move to bring hardened Android experiences to a broader hardware ecosystem. The partnership highlights growing demand for secure mobile platforms outside of Google's direct hardware offerings.

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Ars Technica Aug 21, 2026

Lawsuit demands Logitech hand tariff refunds over to customers

Logitech is facing a lawsuit that requires the company to refund tariffs to its customers. This legal action follows the tech giant's decision to raise prices by as much as 25 percent last year. The suit alleges that the increased costs were passed on to consumers due to tariffs, which should have been absorbed by the manufacturer.

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Ars Technica Aug 21, 2026

Chinese regulators tell Tesla to fix nearly 3 million cars

Chinese safety regulators have ordered Tesla to address safety defects in nearly three million vehicles due to concerns about doors failing to open during crashes. This directive highlights a significant crackdown on automotive safety standards within the country. The mandate requires the electric vehicle maker to rectify the issue to ensure passenger egress is possible in emergency situations.

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The Verge Aug 21, 2026

Over one million people have clicked LinkedIn’s AI slop button

LinkedIn has reported that more than one million users have utilized its new "Seems like AI slop" feedback button since its launch on July 30th. Chief Product Officer Hari Srinivasan highlighted this significant engagement in a recent post, noting the feature's accessibility via the three-dot menu on posts. This tool allows users to flag content they believe was generated by artificial intelligence, helping the platform identify and manage low-quality automated posts. The high volume of clicks indicates a strong user demand for better control over the visibility of AI-generated material on the professional network.

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The Verge Aug 21, 2026

Apple is laying off staffers working on the Vision Pro and Siri

Apple is eliminating more than 200 positions across its Siri and Vision Pro divisions as part of a broader restructuring effort. The company is effectively dismantling its Vision Pro gaming team while significantly downsizing the group responsible for creating immersive content for the headset. These cuts signal a strategic shift in focus for Apple’s augmented reality initiatives and voice assistant development.

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The Verge Aug 21, 2026

$100 Best Buy gift cards will be $60 at stores Saturday

Best Buy is offering a limited-time promotion for its 60th anniversary, allowing customers to purchase $100 gift cards for just $60. This exclusive one-day deal takes place on Saturday, August 22nd, at physical retail locations. Availability is strictly limited to stock on hand, meaning the offer will end once supplies run out. Shoppers should visit their local store early to take advantage of this significant discount.

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Wired Aug 21, 2026

Meta’s Big Reckoning Is Here

Meta faces a pivotal legal battle regarding child safety that threatens to reshape the fundamental architecture of its social media platforms. This landmark lawsuit could compel the company to implement sweeping modifications to core features on both Facebook and Instagram. The outcome of this case may set a new precedent for how tech giants manage user protection and platform design.

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Wired Aug 21, 2026

I Tried the Best Robotic Pool Cleaners of 2026: Beatbot, iGarden, Dreame

The 2026 lineup of robotic pool cleaners features standout models from Beatbot, iGarden, and Dreame that effectively maintain water quality. These advanced devices allow users to eliminate traditional pool cleaning supplies by automating the maintenance process. By relying on these robotic assistants, homeowners can achieve cleaner pools with significantly less manual effort.

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Wired Aug 21, 2026

Nyrius Phoenix Home True 4K60 (2026): A Solution for Cord Clutter

The Nyrius Phoenix Home True 4K60 offers a wireless solution for eliminating cable clutter by transmitting high-quality content throughout a residence. This device supports 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, ensuring smooth playback for games, TV shows, and movies. Its advanced signal technology allows the stream to penetrate walls, providing reliable connectivity in various rooms without the need for physical cables.

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TechCrunch Aug 21, 2026

Apple is reportedly cutting hundreds of jobs from Siri, Vision Pro teams

Apple is reportedly eliminating hundreds of positions within its Siri and Vision Pro divisions as part of a broader strategic shift. The company has acknowledged that specific roles are being affected while it redirects resources away from certain ongoing initiatives. This restructuring highlights a significant change in focus for the tech giant's key product teams. The move underscores Apple's effort to streamline operations and prioritize different areas of development.

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TechCrunch Aug 21, 2026

TikTok reaches $400M settlement over children’s privacy lawsuit

TikTok has agreed to pay a $400 million settlement to resolve allegations that it violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. The U.S. Department of Justice originally filed these claims two years ago, citing the platform's failure to adequately protect the privacy of minors. This agreement marks the conclusion of a significant legal battle regarding the social media giant's data handling practices for users under the age of 13. The settlement underscores the growing regulatory scrutiny faced by tech companies concerning child safety and online privacy compliance.

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TechCrunch Aug 21, 2026

The $225 Pebble Time 2 is a refreshingly fun smartwatch

The Pebble Time 2 offers a refreshing take on smartwatches by combining physical buttons with an e-paper display for extended battery life. Priced at $225, this device stands out through its quirky watch faces, dedicated apps, and a distinct hacker spirit. It delivers weeks of usage on a single charge while maintaining a playful and functional design. This approach appeals to users seeking durability and unique customization over traditional touchscreen interfaces.

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Engadget Aug 21, 2026

TikTok will pay $400 million to settle Justice Department lawsuit over child privacy

TikTok has agreed to pay $400 million to resolve a lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice regarding its handling of child privacy. The settlement addresses allegations that the social media platform failed to adequately protect the personal information of underage users. While the Justice Department acknowledged that the app has implemented significant privacy improvements since the suit was filed in 2024, the financial penalty underscores the severity of the initial compliance failures. This resolution marks the end of the legal dispute without an admission of guilt from the company.

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Engadget Aug 21, 2026

Take-Two subpoenas Discord and Microsoft in hunt for GTA VI leaker

Take-Two Interactive has issued legal subpoenas to both Discord and Microsoft as part of its ongoing investigation into the source of Grand Theft Auto VI leaks. The publisher is actively working to identify the individual responsible for leaking sensitive information ahead of the game's scheduled November release. These legal actions highlight the company's aggressive stance on protecting its intellectual property prior to the highly anticipated launch.

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Engadget Aug 21, 2026

LinkedIn says its AI slop button is working

LinkedIn confirms that its controversial AI-generated content feature is functioning as intended. The platform has addressed recent criticism regarding the quality and authenticity of posts produced by this automated tool. Despite user backlash over the perceived decline in content value, the company maintains that the system is operating correctly. This clarification aims to reassure stakeholders that the algorithm is performing according to its original design specifications.

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