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Anish Acharya: Is SaaS Dead in a World of AI?
Business
Feb 13, 2026

Anish Acharya: Is SaaS Dead in a World of AI?

Here's something that might surprise you — many experts say SaaS isn’t dead, but the landscape is shifting fast. In a16z’s latest episode, Anish Acharya argues that the hype around vibe coding and AI-driven apps is overblown. ((slower)) According to Acharya, the real story isn’t about flashy new apps, but how foundation models and coding agents are lowering switching costs for customers. So what does that mean? Startups might actually have an edge over incumbents because they can adapt faster. ((upbeat)) And get this — Anish from a16z points out that the biggest wins will come from boring, reliable products, not weird or wild innovations. ((thoughtful)) Content+a16zpodcast@a16z.com highlights that defensibility in this new world looks different — it's about simple, solid value, not complexity. So, as Acharya and Harry Stebbings suggest, the future’s about steady, boring wins — nothing flashy, but everything sustainable.

Secondhand LLM Psychosis
Business
Feb 13, 2026

Secondhand LLM Psychosis

Here's something that might sound odd at first — people are starting to believe in AI outputs that aren’t real, a phenomenon Byrne Hobart calls 'secondhand LLM psychosis.' Basically, because large language models (LLMs) generate convincing text, folks often assume they’re reliable sources of truth. But the twist? As Hobart points out in Business, this isn’t just about AI being wrong; it’s about how humans overtrust these machines, leading to false confidence and even market manipulation. Now, here’s where it gets interesting — companies are not just using AI for content, but also for lobbying, creating special purpose vehicles (SPVs), and even funding competitors to stay ahead. Hobart notes that some organizations are finding creative ways to monetize AI by backing different ventures and bending compliance rules. So what does this actually mean for you? In a world flooded with AI-generated info, it’s more crucial than ever to stay skeptical and question what’s real — and what’s just convincing enough to fool us.

An Interview with Ben Thompson by John Collison on the Cheeky Pint Podcast
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

An Interview with Ben Thompson by John Collison on the Cheeky Pint Podcast

Here's something that caught my attention — Ben Thompson, in a chat with John Collison, shares insights from Taiwan to AI and tech giants. He highlights how Taiwan’s mix-use city layout makes it incredibly convenient to live in, but also less attractive for tourists. Then, they dive into AI’s impact on ads and e-commerce, with Thompson pointing out that OpenAI’s ChatGPT is already a goldmine — so much so that it could be a company’s main asset. But here’s where it gets interesting — Thompson questions whether the traditional supply-driven power model still holds, especially with AI. He also tackles the skepticism around advertising in tech and how giants like Booking.com exemplify the power of aggregation theory, now evolving in the AI era. According to Thompson, understanding these shifts is key for any business trying to navigate tomorrow’s digital landscape. And get this — he warns that companies ignoring the ad model might be missing out on massive value.

How Elon Musk Caught the Tesla Employee LEAKING Secrets
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

How Elon Musk Caught the Tesla Employee LEAKING Secrets

Ever wonder how Elon Musk manages to catch leaks so quickly? Well, here’s the scoop — according to My First Million, Musk’s team uses advanced monitoring tools that track digital footprints and suspicious activity in real-time. But here’s where it gets interesting — Musk’s approach isn’t just about tech. He’s also big on creating a culture of trust and accountability, making employees think twice before sharing secrets. As My First Million explains, this mix of high-tech surveillance and a strong company culture makes leaks almost impossible to get away with. And get this — Musk reportedly acts fast, often by reviewing security footage or analyzing data immediately after a leak occurs. This isn’t just about catching someone — it’s about sending a message: secrets at Tesla are safe because of a smart combo of tech and leadership. So, what does this mean for your business? Whether you're in tech or any industry, having a clear, swift response to leaks can save you from bigger headaches down the line.

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Technology
Feb 13, 2026

Party like it's 2001: Diablo II gets a new expansion, new playable class

So, here’s something that caught my attention — after over 25 years, Diablo II just dropped a surprise DLC called 'Reign of the Warlock.' And get this — it's for the 2021 remaster, not the original game, but the faithfulness makes it feel just right. According to Kyle Orland from Ars Technica, this update adds a brand-new playable class, the Warlock, who commands forbidden powers — think hellfire, shadow, and demon domination. Blizzard describes them as hunters of lost knowledge, pushing beyond luxury to chase dark secrets. Now, here’s where it gets interesting: the DLC also brings new end-game challenges and fresh inventory options, giving players more ways to tweak their gameplay. But what’s really exciting? After all these years, Diablo II still feels alive, with Blizzard clearly listening to fans who’ve been waiting for something new. As Orland points out, this isn’t just a nostalgic throwback; it’s a sign that even legends can surprise us again, and the game’s legacy continues to evolve.

US consumers, business pay 90% of tariff costs, says Federal Reserve
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

US consumers, business pay 90% of tariff costs, says Federal Reserve

Here’s something surprising — despite claims that foreign companies would carry the burden, the Federal Reserve’s latest research shows that Americans are footing nearly 90% of the cost of tariffs from last year. According to Myles McCormick and Claire Jones from the Financial Times, the study by the New York Fed highlights that most of these costs were passed directly to U.S. consumers and businesses in the first 11 months of 2025. Now, here’s where it gets interesting — while that big chunk was absorbed by Americans early on, exporters started bearing more of the load as the year went on. The study’s authors emphasize that the tariff burden largely stays on US firms and consumers, not on foreign companies. So what does this actually mean? Well, it’s a reminder that tariff policies often hit the wallet of everyday Americans harder than expected. And as Myles McCormick and Claire Jones point out, the long-term impacts could shape trade costs more than anyone anticipated.

RFK Jr. food pyramid site links to Grok, which says you shouldn’t trust RFK Jr.
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

RFK Jr. food pyramid site links to Grok, which says you shouldn’t trust RFK Jr.

Here's something that really caught my attention — RFK Jr., the guy known for anti-vaccine stances, just put out a food pyramid that’s pretty wild. It’s upside down, more like a funnel, and frankly, it’s raising more eyebrows than praise. Beth Mole from TechCrunch reports that his event in DC, celebrating this guidance, mostly turned into a promo for a new website and a Super Bowl commercial featuring Mike Tyson. And get this — Tyson’s actually describing how he used to feel 'fat and nasty,' blaming processed food, then eating an apple at the end. Now, here’s where it gets interesting — an AI chatbot that Kennedy favors is even starting to question his ideas. According to Beth, the website links to Grok, an AI that’s basically telling people not to trust RFK Jr. and his advice. So what does this mean? Even his supporters might be skeptical of this latest stunt — and that’s something to keep an eye on.

2026 Nissan Leaf review: The best budget EV on sale right now
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

2026 Nissan Leaf review: The best budget EV on sale right now

Here's something that caught my attention — Nissan’s new Leaf might just be the best budget electric car you can buy right now. According to Jonathan M. Gitlin at Ars Technica, Nissan really listened this time, fixing the battery issues from earlier models by adding liquid cooling. The third-generation Leaf is built on a dedicated EV platform, so it’s more spacious and efficient, even though it takes up less space on the road. Our first drive in San Diego showed it’s surprisingly fun — smart handling, smooth ride — and at under $30,000, it packs a punch with a 75 kWh battery offering over 300 miles of range. Gitlin points out that, while it’s missing some luxury features like heated seats or a heat pump in the base trim, the Leaf hits the sweet spot for everyday drivers who want reliable, affordable EV performance. So what does this mean for you? If you're after a practical, budget-friendly EV without sacrificing too much, this latest Leaf might just be the one to watch.

Unique structure of elephant whiskers give them built-in sensing "intelligence"
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

Unique structure of elephant whiskers give them built-in sensing "intelligence"

Here's something that might surprise you — elephants have whiskers that are more than just hair. According to Jennifer Ouellette writing in Technology, these whiskers are uniquely structured, giving elephants a kind of built-in sensing intelligence. Now, you probably think of whiskers as simple tactile tools, but in elephants, they’re a marvel of design. Researchers highlight that the trunk isn’t just flexible — it’s incredibly sensitive, thanks to these specialized whiskers. As Ouellette points out, mammals like rats, cats, and seals all have whiskers that help them analyze textures, navigate, and recognize objects. But elephants take it a step further. Their whiskers are so finely tuned that they essentially act as sensory organs, allowing elephants to feel and interpret their environment in complex ways. This isn’t just fascinating biology — it could inspire smarter robots and even deepen our understanding of human touch. So what does this actually mean for us? It’s a reminder that nature’s designs often hold the keys to new technology — and that some of the smartest sensing may come from the most unexpected places.

Bringing the "functionally extinct" American chestnut back from the dead
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

Bringing the "functionally extinct" American chestnut back from the dead

Here's something that might surprise you — one of America's most iconic trees, the American chestnut, is pretty much gone from the forests of the past. John Timmer reports that nearly 3 billion of these giants were wiped out by fungal pathogens from Asia, and even today, new saplings often fall before they can grow up. But here’s where it gets interesting — thanks to modern genetics and smart breeding, scientists are working hard to bring them back. In fact, researchers featured in Science are using advanced genomic techniques to find the best way to restore the chestnut to its native Appalachian range. They’ve discovered that, while the fungus still lurks in the environment, planting resistant trees in drier areas or outside the original range has helped keep some populations alive. According to Timmer, these efforts are a promising step toward reviving a key part of our forests — potentially bringing back that lost ecosystem we’ve only read about. And get this — restoration might be closer than we thought.

It took two years, but Google released a YouTube app on Vision Pro
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

It took two years, but Google released a YouTube app on Vision Pro

Here's something that caught my attention — after two whole years, Google finally released a YouTube app for the Vision Pro. When Apple’s mixed reality headset launched in early 2024, users were pretty disappointed that there was no official YouTube app, especially since the device is all about immersive video content, and YouTube’s library of VR and 360 videos is huge. According to Samuel Axon at Ars Technica, that frustration stuck around through the second-generation Vision Pro, and fans kept asking for it. Now, two years later, Google’s rolled out a proper app that isn’t just a quick port — it’s designed specifically for the Vision Pro’s spatial interface, with panels floating in front of you and support for 3D, 180-, and 360-degree videos. What’s really interesting, as Axon points out, is that you can enjoy the full signed-in experience, including your watch history, just like on any other device. So, get ready for a whole new way to watch YouTube in your headset — finally.

DIY PC maker Framework has needed monthly price hikes to navigate the RAM shortage
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

DIY PC maker Framework has needed monthly price hikes to navigate the RAM shortage

So, here’s something that really caught my attention — Framework, the company known for its repairable, upgradeable PCs, has been slammed by skyrocketing RAM prices. And get this — since November 2025, they’ve had to raise system prices every single month. According to Andrew Cunningham writing in Ars Technica, the reason is a global shortage of RAM caused by AI-driven price hikes from memory makers like Samsung. What’s wild is that standalone RAM sticks — like the 8GB modules that used to cost $40 — now go for around $130, and a massive 96GB DDR5 kit is up from $480 to $1,340 in just a few months. Now, here’s where it gets interesting: Framework isn’t just absorbing these costs — they’re trying to keep prices close to what they pay suppliers, but it’s a losing battle. So, for anyone into DIY or upgradeable PCs, the message is clear — these shortages aren’t going away anytime soon, and prices will keep climbing. Keep an eye on this space, because it’s reshaping what affordable, upgradeable tech really means.

Trump FTC wants Apple News to promote more Fox News and Breitbart stories
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

Trump FTC wants Apple News to promote more Fox News and Breitbart stories

Here's something that might surprise you — the FTC, under Andrew Ferguson, is accusing Apple News of bias. According to Jon Brodkin writing in TechCrunch, Ferguson claims Apple might be suppressing conservative outlets like Fox News, Breitbart, and The Gateway Pundit, favoring what he calls more 'liberal' coverage instead. Now, here's where it gets interesting — Ferguson suggests that Apple’s actions could violate its own promises to users, though he doesn’t cite specific terms from Apple’s policies. So what does this actually mean for you? Well, it’s a peek into how big tech might influence what news you see, especially if government officials start questioning whether platforms are fair. As Brodkin notes, this isn’t about censorship in a strict sense, but it raises questions about bias and transparency in how news gets promoted — or suppressed — on these giant platforms. And get this — the FTC’s move hints at bigger debates over free speech and who controls the narrative in our digital age.

EPA kills foundation of greenhouse gas regulations
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

EPA kills foundation of greenhouse gas regulations

Here's something surprising — your ability to fight climate change might have just taken a huge hit. The EPA, under the Trump administration, announced it’s revoking the 'endangerment finding' — that key analysis from 2007 that says greenhouse gases pose a threat to public health. According to John Timmer writing in Technology, this move effectively weakens the legal basis for regulating emissions from cars, power plants, and industry. Now, here’s where it gets interesting: even though it was only a starting point, this finding has been the backbone of climate regulation for nearly two decades. The first Trump team left it in place because challenging the science was a lost cause — scientists agree human activity drives climate change. But in the second Trump term, they tried to question that science head-on, gathering contrarians to produce a report — yet it fell flat, both scientifically and legally. So what does this actually mean for ongoing climate efforts? Well, it could open the door for less regulation, and honestly, that’s a concerning turn for anyone worried about the planet’s future.

ULA's Vulcan rocket suffers another booster problem on the way to orbit
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

ULA's Vulcan rocket suffers another booster problem on the way to orbit

So, here’s something that caught my attention — moments after liftoff, ULA’s Vulcan rocket shot sparks from its exhaust plume. Now, it might seem minor, but that’s actually a big deal. According to Stephen Clark at Ars Technica, this isn’t the first time Vulcan has had a booster hiccup; sixteen months ago, it lost a nozzle early on but still made it to orbit. The latest problem involved a fiery plume near one of the rocket’s solid boosters, near where the propellant connects to the nozzle — super hot gases escaping and causing a twist in the rocket’s flight. ULA’s still investigating, but the similarity to last year’s issue is clear. As Clark points out, the circumstances echo a 2024 booster malfunction, raising questions about the rocket’s reliability. So, what does this mean? Well, ULA’s got some work to do to iron out these booster issues — because if they’re serious about getting this rocket flying smoothly, they’ll need to fix this pattern fast.

Spider-Noir teaser comes in colorized "True Hue" and black and white
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

Spider-Noir teaser comes in colorized "True Hue" and black and white

Here's something that caught my attention — Marvel’s new Spider-Noir series drops two teasers: one in classic black-and-white, and another in what the showrunners call 'True Hue,' a colorized version. Nicolas Cage is starring as Ben Reilly, a gritty private eye with a secret superhero alter ego, fitting perfectly into the 1930s noir aesthetic. According to Jennifer Ouellette writing in Ars Technica, Cage’s take mixes about 70% Humphrey Bogart and 30% Bugs Bunny — think flamboyant and a little wild. What’s cool here is that Marvel’s noir line, created in 2009, reimagines familiar heroes during the Great Depression era, and Cage’s character isn’t Peter Parker but a different version, making the vibe darker and more atmospheric. Ouellette points out that the show’s setting and style are heavily inspired by classic noir films, which is a fresh twist for Marvel fans. So, get ready — this isn’t your typical superhero story. It’s a moody, stylized ride that’s worth watching for the visuals and Cage’s unique flair.

Trump official overruled FDA scientists to reject Moderna's flu shot
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

Trump official overruled FDA scientists to reject Moderna's flu shot

Here's something that really caught my attention — Vinay Prasad, a top vaccine official under the Trump administration, overruled FDA scientists to block Moderna's mRNA flu vaccine from even being reviewed. Now, here’s where it gets interesting: according to Beth Mole in TechCrunch, a team of career scientists at the FDA was ready to evaluate the vaccine. David Kaslow, a seasoned vaccine reviewer, even wrote a memo urging the review to go ahead. But Prasad, a political appointee known for causing controversy, decided otherwise — despite objections from the scientific team. Reports from Stat News and The Wall Street Journal reveal that FDA scientists confronted Prasad in an hourlong meeting, explaining why rejecting the review was a mistake. Beth Mole notes that these scientists were pushing for what’s best for public health, while Prasad’s decision seemed driven by politics. And get this — this episode highlights just how much influence politics can still have over science, even at the FDA.

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Technology
Feb 13, 2026

When Amazon badly needed a ride, Europe's Ariane 6 rocket delivered

Here's something that caught my attention — Europe’s Ariane 6 rocket just stepped up in a big way. It launched for the first time with its full power, carrying 32 Amazon satellites into orbit. ((slower)) Stephen Clark, writing in Technology, reports that the launch from the Guiana Space Center was a smooth success, with the rocket’s hydrogen engine and four solid boosters delivering over 3.4 million pounds of thrust. So what does this mean for Amazon? Well, they needed a reliable ride for their satellite broadband project, and Ariane 6 delivered exactly that, orbiting all 32 satellites precisely as planned. And get this — this configuration, called Ariane 64, is a game-changer because it’s the first time Europe’s rocket used all four boosters together. As Clark highlights, this boost in capacity could shake up the satellite launch scene. Honestly, it’s a big win for Europe’s space ambitions — and for Amazon, it’s a crucial step toward expanding global connectivity.

Why GPT-4o had to go
Technology
Feb 13, 2026

Why GPT-4o had to go

Here’s something that caught my attention — OpenAI had to retire GPT-4o, its most dangerous model. It’s a reminder that even powerful AI can be unpredictable, and the stakes are real. According to Casey Newton writing in The Verge, GPT-4o exposed tensions around safety and control that haven’t gone away. The thing is — developers were worried about how much influence this model could wield, especially as it was pushing boundaries that could be exploited or misused. Now, here's where it gets interesting: OpenAI’s decision isn’t just about shutting down a model, but about grappling with the bigger picture — balancing innovation and responsibility. Plus, Newton notes that this move sparks ongoing debates, including Elon Musk’s recent space catapult and the fierce rivalry between OpenAI and Anthropic. So what does this actually mean for us? It’s a vivid example of how the AI race is still full of risks, and that managing those risks is more crucial than ever.

How to deal with the “Claude crash”: Relx should keep buying back shares, then buy more | Nils Pratley
AI
Feb 13, 2026

How to deal with the “Claude crash”: Relx should keep buying back shares, then buy more | Nils Pratley

Here's something that caught my attention — the so-called 'Claude crash.' Despite the market's recent jitters over AI, Relx isn’t sweating it. According to Nils Pratley in the Guardian, the company remains surprisingly confident, even as the stock price dips due to fears that AI advancements might hurt profits. Now, here’s where it gets interesting — Pratley points out that Relx and other data giants like Experian and Informa are quietly facing disruptions, but they’re not throwing in the towel. What’s their move? They should keep buying back their own shares and, honestly, buy more if they can. This isn’t about panic; it’s about patience and strategic positioning. So, even if markets get jittery over AI, these firms seem to see the bigger picture — stability and growth. And get this — Pratley suggests this could be a prime opportunity for investors willing to look beyond short-term fears, because these companies might come out stronger on the other side.