## Enhanced Messaging Security: Apple Tests End-to-End Encrypted RCS on iPhone


**Apple** has significantly expanded its messaging capabilities with the introduction of RCS (Rich Communication Services) support in iOS 18.1, fostering improved interoperability between iPhones and Android devices. This update brings features previously unavailable in SMS, such as typing indicators, read receipts, and the ability to share high-resolution photos and videos seamlessly across platforms. Building upon this foundation, the company announced last March its intention to incorporate end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, further bolstering user privacy and security.


## Early Access to Encrypted RCS Messaging via iOS 26.4 Beta 1


The latest iteration, iOS 26.4 beta 1, now available for testing, provides an initial opportunity for developers to evaluate end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging on iPhone. It’s crucial to understand that this implementation represents a limited, preliminary test and will not be included in the full iOS 26.4 release. **Apple** anticipates the full rollout of end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging in a subsequent iOS 26 software update.


## Testing RCS Encryption: A Gradual Rollout


A new setting within the iPhone’s Settings app has been introduced, allowing users to enable support for testing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging. This toggle is enabled by default, however, availability will be phased in gradually among beta testers. The presence of the toggle doesn't guarantee immediate access to the testing feature, reflecting **Apple’s** measured approach to beta program feedback. Currently, RCS encryption testing is restricted to communication between iPhone devices where iMessage is disabled, essentially facilitating encrypted messaging between users who have opted out of the iMessage ecosystem. Cross-platform testing, involving iPhones and Android devices, is slated for a later stage.


## Interface Updates and Encryption Indicators


To accommodate these changes, **Apple** has refined the Messages app interface. When engaging in RCS-encrypted conversations, a distinct lock icon will appear within the chat thread, visually indicating the presence of end-to-end encryption. Notably, this lock icon will also be displayed on all iMessage threads, a testament to **Apple’s** long-standing commitment to end-to-end encryption, which has been a standard feature of iMessage since 2011.

As stated in **Apple’s** developer release notes for iOS 26.4, "RCS end-to-end encryption is now available for testing in this beta. This feature is not shipping in this release and will be available to customers in a future software update for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS. End-to-end encryption is in beta and is not available for all devices or carriers. Conversations labeled as encrypted are encrypted end-to-end, so messages can’t be read while they’re sent between devices. In this beta, RCS encryption is available for testing between Apple devices and is not yet testable with other platforms."

iOS 26.4 is currently being distributed to developer beta testers, with a public beta expected to follow at a later date. This initial test phase marks a significant step toward **Apple’s** broader adoption of end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging for all iPhone users.

iOS 18.1 Beta: Apple Tests Secure RCS Messaging with Android

## Ferrari 296 GTS Auction Fails Despite Substantial Bid


A recent auction event in California has highlighted ongoing challenges for the **Ferrari 296** model, as a 2025 **Ferrari 296 GTS** failed to secure a sale despite a reported bid of $348,000. This incident adds to a growing trend of 296 units struggling to find buyers at auction, creating a curious situation within the high-performance car market. The vehicle’s refusal to sell, even with a significant offer, has sparked considerable discussion and underscores the complexities of current supercar valuations.


## Vehicle Details and Initial Delivery


The particular vehicle in question is a striking 2025 **Ferrari 296 GTS**, finished in the iconic Rosso Corsa exterior and complemented by a Nero leather interior. It boasts an impressive array of factory options, adding approximately $80,000 to its original value. Initially delivered from **Ferrari**’s Maranello factory to **Ferrari of Los Angeles** last year, the vehicle carried a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $452,476. Following its initial delivery, the car was subsequently transferred to another California dealership.


## Auction Outcome and Reserve Price


The vehicle was presented at auction, where bidding reached a peak of $348,000. However, this figure reportedly fell short of the seller’s established reserve price, preventing the sale from being finalized. The GTS variant, the convertible version of the 296, maintains near-identical performance to the hard-top model despite an additional 150 pounds in weight. Factory specifications include a front suspension lift system, red-painted **Brembo** calipers, and carbon-ceramic rotors.


## Performance and Specifications of the 296 GTS


The **Ferrari 296 GTS** is powered by a celebrated 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, working in conjunction with an MGU-K electric motor. This powerful combination delivers a total output of 818 horsepower, channeled to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The interior features extensive carbon fiber trim, contributing to the vehicle’s luxurious and high-performance aesthetic. With a current odometer reading of just under 700 miles, the vehicle remains practically brand new.

**DISCOVER SBX CARS:** The global premium car auction platform powered by **Supercar Blondie**. Click the star icon next to supercarblondie.com in Google Search to stay ahead of the curve on the latest and greatest supercars, hypercars, and ground-breaking technology.

$348K Bid Misses: California Ferrari 296 GTS Auction Fails

## Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Launch and Processor Details Revealed


The highly anticipated **Samsung Galaxy S26** series is slated for unveiling next Wednesday, February 25th. For those seeking a comprehensive overview of the leaked specifications, our previous articles detailing the **Galaxy S26 Ultra**, **Galaxy S26**, and **Galaxy S26+** provide extensive coverage. Recent information indicates a distinct processor strategy across the lineup, promising varied performance characteristics.


## Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Powers Galaxy S26 Ultra Globally


A key highlight of the upcoming devices is the chipset configuration. The **Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra** will exclusively utilize the **Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5** processor across all global markets. In contrast, the **Galaxy S26** and **Galaxy S26+** will feature the **Exynos 2600** in select regions, although the precise geographical distribution remains unconfirmed. Preliminary benchmark data, obtained by TechManiacs, offers valuable insights into the performance differences between these processors.


## Performance Breakdown: Snapdragon vs. Exynos in the Galaxy S26 Lineup


The **Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5** variant destined for the Galaxy S26 Ultra is a specially overclocked version, designated "for Galaxy." This customized chip boasts a Prime core cluster operating at a clock speed of 4.74GHz, a notable increase compared to the standard Elite Gen 5's 4.61GHz. This enhanced clock speed, potentially coupled with a GPU boost (though unconfirmed), contributes to a significant performance advantage. The Oryon V3 Prime cores within the Snapdragon chip operate nearly a full gigahertz faster than the ARM C1-Ultra core found in the **Exynos 2600**, resulting in a 16% improvement in single-core benchmark scores.

Despite the Snapdragon's single-core dominance, multi-core performance demonstrates remarkable parity. The difference in scores falls within the margin of error, with the Exynos 2600 exhibiting a slight 2% deficit. This is partly attributable to the Exynos 2600's deca-core CPU architecture (1+3+6) versus the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy's eight-core configuration (2+6). Geekbench 6.6.0 testing further illustrates these nuanced performance distinctions.


## Memory and Base Configuration Details


Beyond the processor specifics, all three **Galaxy S26** models will ship with a base configuration of 12GB of RAM. The **Galaxy S26 Ultra** is expected to offer a 16GB RAM option, but this appears to be exclusive to the 1TB storage variant, and was not the specific device used in the benchmark testing. For a more detailed exploration of the anticipated features and specifications of the entire **Samsung Galaxy S26** series, refer to our dedicated preview articles.

Samsung S26 Series: Launch Date & Processor Details Emerge

## China's Innovative GrowHR Robot Challenges Western Robotics Dominance


For years, **Chinese authorities** and industry leaders have strived to surpass the **United States** as the global leader in technology. While historically facing challenges in competing with Silicon Valley, recent advancements in artificial intelligence are positioning China to potentially leap ahead. A notable development is the emergence of Chinese-manufactured humanoid robots entering the consumer market, showcasing designs distinct from those offered by Western brands like **Tesla** and **Boston Dynamics**. Among these innovations, **GrowHR** stands out with its remarkable ability to morph its shape, navigate water, and access confined spaces – all while maintaining a friendly, animated appearance.


## Unique Design Inspired by Human Anatomy


The groundbreaking **GrowHR** robot was developed at the **Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech)** in Shenzhen. A team of robotics researchers focused intently on replicating the intricacies of human bone structure. Their research, detailed in a paper published in *Science Advances* in January 2026, highlights the efficiency of natural bone design – lightweight yet incredibly strong. "Despite that," the authors noted, "current humanoid robots' frames are simple columns," lacking the inherent strength-to-weight ratio of biological bones. This design philosophy directly influenced GrowHR’s construction.

The robot, nearly four and a half feet tall, remarkably weighs less than 10 pounds, enabling effortless buoyancy. This contrasts sharply with competitors like **Unitree’s** G1 humanoid robot, which shares a similar height but is almost eight times heavier. To achieve this lightness, the SUSTech team utilized a series of inflatable chambers within GrowHR’s body and legs. Deflating these chambers allows the robot to shrink its height by 36% and its width by 61%, facilitating movement through tight spaces.


## Potential for Life-Saving Applications in Search and Rescue


Despite being a prototype, **GrowHR’s** designers envision a wide range of applications, particularly within search and rescue operations. The robot’s unique ability to adapt to diverse environments and its aquatic capabilities offer significant advantages over existing humanoid robots. Its buoyant, air-filled design allows it to function as a mobile lifeline, providing stable support for individuals struggling in water while it propels them to safety.

Furthermore, GrowHR’s pliable body allows it to potentially navigate hazardous environments deemed unsafe for human rescue teams. The air chambers provide crucial cushioning against impacts and falls, enhancing its resilience in unstable conditions like collapsed buildings. Coupled with advanced vision systems, **GrowHR** could represent a transformative tool for locating and assisting individuals in disaster zones. While its terrestrial mobility remains a limitation – its soft structure compromises load-bearing capacity, resulting in slow and unsteady movement on land – the robot’s innovative design holds considerable promise for future technological advancements.

China's GrowHR Robot: A Tech Leap Challenging US Robotics

## Google Patches Actively Exploited Chrome Zero-Day Vulnerability (CVE-2026-2441)


On February 16, 2026, **Google** released critical security updates for its widely used **Chrome** browser, responding to a recently discovered and actively exploited vulnerability. This security patch addresses a significant flaw that poses a risk to users, marking the first actively exploited zero-day vulnerability in Chrome for 2026. The update aims to mitigate the potential for malicious actors to compromise systems through browser exploitation.

The vulnerability, formally identified as **CVE-2026-2441**, carries a high severity rating with a CVSS score of 8.8. It’s classified as a "use-after-free" bug residing within the **CSS** engine of Chrome. This type of bug occurs when a program attempts to access memory that has already been freed, potentially leading to crashes or, more critically, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code. The flaw existed in versions of Chrome prior to 145.0.7632.75.


## Details of the Discovered CSS Vulnerability and Reporting


**Shaheen Fazim**, a security researcher, is credited with identifying and reporting this critical shortcoming to Google on February 11, 2026. According to the **National Vulnerability Database (NVD)**, the vulnerability allows a remote attacker to execute code within a sandbox environment by crafting a malicious HTML page. While the specifics of the exploitation remain undisclosed by Google, the company confirmed the existence of an exploit in the wild, indicating active threat activity.

Google has refrained from providing further details regarding the exploitation methods, the perpetrators involved, or the specific targets of these attacks. This decision is common practice to prevent attackers from adapting their techniques and circumventing the newly implemented security measures. However, the acknowledgement of an active exploit underscores the urgency of applying the latest security updates.


## Browser Vulnerabilities: A Prime Target for Attackers


The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of securing web browsers, which represent a consistently attractive target for malicious actors. The pervasive nature of **Chrome**, coupled with its broad attack surface due to its widespread installation across numerous devices, makes it a prime target. Browser-based vulnerabilities provide attackers with a readily accessible entry point to compromise systems, making proactive security measures essential.

This latest patch follows a similar action by **Apple** last week, which released updates for iOS, iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, tvOS, watchOS, and visionOS to address a zero-day vulnerability (CVE-2026-20700, CVSS score: 7.8). That flaw was reportedly weaponized in an "extremely sophisticated attack" targeting specific individuals using older versions of iOS (prior to iOS 26).


## Updating Chrome and Other Chromium-Based Browsers for Enhanced Security


To ensure optimal protection, users are strongly advised to update their **Chrome** browser to version 145.0.7632.75/76 for Windows and Apple macOS, and 144.0.7559.75 for Linux. Users can easily initiate the update process by navigating to "More" > "Help" > "About Google Chrome" within the browser and selecting "Relaunch."

Furthermore, users of other browsers built upon the Chromium engine, including **Microsoft Edge**, **Brave**, **Opera**, and **Vivaldi**, should also promptly apply the available security fixes as they become available. Staying current with browser updates is a crucial step in maintaining a robust security posture against emerging threats.

Chrome Zero-Day Exploited: Google Issues Urgent Security Patch

## New Trailer Showcases the Alchemist Class in Kingdom’s Return


**Inti Creates** has unveiled a fresh trailer for their upcoming hybrid 2D action and strategy title, *Kingdom’s Return: Time-Eating Fruit and the Ancient Monster*. This latest preview focuses on a key addition to the roster: the **Alchemist** class. The trailer provides a glimpse into the character's unique abilities and gameplay style, promising a compelling addition to the game's strategic depth. Players can anticipate a blend of tactical planning and fast-paced action when utilizing this new class.


## Mastering Potions and Status Effects: The Alchemist's Role


The **Alchemist** is portrayed as a cunning specialist, excelling in the manipulation of potions and the application of debilitating status effects. This character isn't about brute force; instead, they rely on strategic application of their arsenal. Expect to see a wide range of concoctions deployed against foes, weakening them and setting the stage for decisive attacks.

The Alchemist’s skillset extends beyond simple potion-throwing. Through the **Class Circle**, players can unlock potent abilities, culminating in devastating skills like “Chemical Blaster Omega.” This system allows for customization and specialization, enabling players to tailor the Alchemist to their preferred playstyle. Mastering these skills will be crucial for overcoming the game’s challenges.


## Release Date and Platform Availability for Kingdom’s Return


*Kingdom’s Return: Time-Eating Fruit and the Ancient Monster* is slated for release on **April 23**. The game will be available across a broad range of platforms, including **PlayStation 5**, **Xbox Series**, **Switch 2**, standard **Switch**, and **PC** via **Steam**. This wide availability ensures that players on various systems can experience the strategic action of *Kingdom’s Return*.

Kingdom’s Return: Meet the Alchemist – New Trailer!

Apple Podcasts on App Store displayed on a phone screen is seen in this illustration photo taken in Poland on June 5, 2024. (Photo by **Jakub Porzycki**/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

**Apple** announced on Monday a significant enhancement to **Apple Podcasts**, introducing a fully integrated video podcast experience slated for release this spring. This development positions Apple to better compete in a rapidly evolving podcast landscape increasingly dominated by visual content. The move acknowledges the growing popularity of video podcasts, with **Edison Research** reporting that approximately 37% of individuals aged 12 and over consume video podcasts on a monthly basis.


## The Rise of Video Podcasting & Apple’s Response


The update directly addresses the competitive pressure from platforms like **Spotify**, **YouTube**, and now **Netflix**, all of which have strategically expanded their investment in video podcasting. **Eddy Cue**, Apple’s senior vice president of Services, highlighted the company’s long-standing commitment to the medium, stating, “Twenty years ago, Apple helped take podcasting mainstream by adding podcasts to iTunes, and more than a decade ago, we introduced the dedicated Apple Podcasts app.” 

Cue further explained that the new video functionality aims to empower content creators, stating, “By bringing a category-leading video experience to Apple Podcasts, we're putting creators in full control of their content and how they build their businesses, while making it easier than ever for audiences to listen to or watch podcasts.” Users will benefit from a unified experience, seamlessly transitioning between audio and video formats within the same podcast feed.


## Enhanced Features & Technical Specifications


The forthcoming update will allow listeners to effortlessly switch between audio and video playback within the **Apple Podcasts** application. Additional features include support for picture-in-picture mode and the ability to download video episodes for offline enjoyment. While Apple Podcasts has technically supported video content via RSS feeds since 2005, these were previously segregated from their audio counterparts.

Central to this upgrade is the implementation of **HLS (HTTP Live Streaming)**, a streaming protocol originally developed by Apple. HLS enables adaptive video playback, optimizing the viewing experience based on network conditions, and provides creators with enhanced control over their content delivery. This new format also facilitates the integration of dynamic video advertising.


## Monetization & Partner Support


**Apple** will not impose any fees on creators or hosting providers for distributing video podcast content. However, ad networks utilizing the HLS protocol for dynamic video ad insertion will be subject to an impression-based charge. Several prominent podcast hosting companies are already on board to support the new HLS video capabilities. 

These initial launch partners include **Acast**, **ART19** (owned by Amazon), **Omny Studio** (from Triton Digital), and **SiriusXM**. The announcement arrives as competitors continue to aggressively pursue video podcasting audiences. **YouTube** reported exceeding 1 billion monthly active viewers of podcast content last year, while **Spotify** disclosed payments exceeding $100 million to podcasters during the first quarter of the previous year. **Netflix** has also entered the fray, forging a partnership with Spotify and launching original video podcast programming like “The Pete Davidson Show” in January.

Apple Podcasts Gets Visual: New Video Support Arrives This Spring

## Apple Announces March 4th “Special Apple Experience” Event


**Apple** has officially scheduled a presentation for March 4th, playfully titled a “Special Apple Experience,” maintaining the company’s tradition of enigmatic event branding. Details surrounding the unveiling remain closely guarded, consistent with Apple’s typical approach to product announcements. Industry observers and tech enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating what new products or services will be showcased.

The event is set to begin at 9:00 AM Eastern Time on March 4th, and **Ars Technica** will provide live coverage from New York City. While Apple rarely pre-discloses the specifics of its events, recent reports and market analysis offer clues regarding potential announcements. Speculation centers on hardware updates and the introduction of new models within existing product lines.


## Potential iPhone 17e Debut & Market Positioning


Recent reporting suggests that **Apple** may introduce the **iPhone 17e** as a new entry point within its smartphone portfolio. This forthcoming iteration is anticipated to be a more affordable option, targeting budget-conscious consumers. The device is expected to feature the **A19 chip**, the same processor found in the standard **iPhone 17** model, offering a significant performance boost over previous budget iPhones.

Currently, the standard **iPhone 16** and **iPhone 17** models, along with the **iPhone 16e**, are priced within the $600-$800 bracket. Introducing another iPhone at the $599 price point is unlikely to significantly disrupt the market, as it would overlap with existing offerings. The success of the iPhone 17e will hinge on its pricing and features relative to its competitors.


## Anticipated Features and Coverage Plans


While a sophisticated multi-camera system, commonly found in Apple’s premium devices, isn’t expected on the **iPhone 17e**, the inclusion of **MagSafe** wireless charging is a possibility. This addition would align the budget model with the convenience offered by higher-end iPhones. The focus for this device will likely be on delivering core iPhone functionality at a more accessible price. 

**Ars Technica’s** team will be on location in New York City to deliver comprehensive coverage of the “Special Apple Experience” event. Expect detailed reporting, hands-on impressions, and in-depth analysis of any new products or announcements as they unfold on March 4th. We will provide updates throughout the day on our website and social media channels.

Apple's March 4 Event: New iPads & Macs Expected?

## iOS 26.4 Beta Introduces Significant System Updates


**Apple** has initiated the testing phase for its next software iteration with the release of the first **iOS 26.4** beta. While not immediately visible to the end-user, this initial build appears to prioritize internal enhancements and refinements to the operating system. Among the notable changes discovered within the beta is a comprehensive rework of the device’s **Wallpaper Gallery**.

The revamped Wallpaper Gallery in **iOS 26.4** focuses on both aesthetic improvements and enhanced operational efficiency. Developers have streamlined the interface to deliver a smoother, more intuitive experience for users customizing their iPhone’s background. This redesign represents a significant departure from previous iterations of the feature.


## Redesigned Wallpaper Organization & Categories


The updated system presents users with a clear, categorized layout at the top of the screen. Distinct sections are now dedicated to **Featured** wallpapers, the dynamic **Photo Shuffle** option, and immersive **Spatial Scenes**.  Importantly, users now possess greater control over which categories are displayed, allowing for personalized organization and removal of unwanted options. 

Beyond the core photo collections, the new Gallery showcases dedicated sections like **Weather**, **Astronomy**, and **Emoji**, each accompanied by a concise description.  Selecting the “Get” button previews the available wallpapers within each collection, and a simple checkmark allows users to easily remove collections from view after browsing.


## Enhanced Performance and System Wallpapers


Alongside the organizational changes, the new Wallpaper Gallery demonstrates a marked improvement in responsiveness and fluidity. The updated architecture feels more integrated with the overall **iOS 26** experience, contributing to a more polished user interface. This performance boost is a key element of the update.

Furthermore, the Gallery continues to house pre-installed wallpaper collections specific to **iOS 26** itself, as well as hardware-dependent backgrounds that remain fixed and cannot be removed by the user. These system-level wallpapers ensure a consistent visual experience across all devices.

iOS 26.4 Beta: Wallpaper Gallery Gets a Major Redesign!

## Pioneering AI Chip Design: Ricursive Intelligence Secures $300 Million Funding


The remarkable trajectory of **Ricursive Intelligence**, a startup focused on revolutionizing chip design, underscores a seemingly destined partnership between its co-founders. **Anna Goldie**, the company’s CEO, and **Azalia Mirhoseini**, serving as CTO, have garnered significant recognition within the artificial intelligence community. Their prominence is such that they reportedly received unsolicited and substantial offers from industry giants like **Mark Zuckerberg** at Meta, a testament to their exceptional talent. While declining those offers, their shared journey has consistently placed them at the forefront of AI innovation.


## A History of Innovation at Google and Anthropic


**Goldie** and **Mirhoseini** initially forged their professional connection at **Google Brain**, joining the team on the same day and subsequently departing together. Their collaborative spirit continued at **Anthropic**, where they again joined and left as a unified team. A subsequent return to **Google** followed the same pattern, culminating in their joint venture to establish **Ricursive Intelligence**. During their tenure at **Google**, the pair achieved widespread acclaim for developing **Alpha Chip**, a groundbreaking AI tool capable of generating detailed chip layouts in a matter of hours. This dramatically contrasts with the traditional process, which typically requires human designers to dedicate over a year to the same task. **Alpha Chip** played a crucial role in the design of three generations of **Google’s Tensor Processing Units**, demonstrating its significant impact on hardware development.


## Rapid Growth and Significant Investment


The impressive pedigree of **Goldie** and **Mirhoseini** explains the swift ascent of **Ricursive Intelligence**. Just four months after its launch, the company announced a substantial **Series A funding round of $300 million**, valuing the company at **$4 billion**. This investment was spearheaded by **Lightspeed**, following a previous **seed round of $35 million** led by **Sequoia**. This rapid financial growth highlights the immense potential and market interest in **Ricursive’s** innovative approach.


## Redefining AI Chip Development: A Unique Approach


Unlike many AI chip startups vying to become competitors to established players like **Nvidia**, **Ricursive Intelligence** occupies a distinct niche. The company is focused on developing AI-powered tools to *design* chips, rather than manufacturing the chips themselves. This strategic differentiation has attracted attention from major players in the semiconductor industry, including **Nvidia**, **AMD**, and **Intel**, who represent **Ricursive’s** target customer base. “Our goal is to enable the automated and accelerated creation of any chip – custom designs, traditional chips, or any other type – leveraging AI to achieve this,” explained **Mirhoseini**.


## From Stanford Beginnings to a Shared Vision


The foundation of **Goldie** and **Mirhoseini’s** partnership dates back to **Stanford University**, where **Goldie** pursued her PhD while **Mirhoseini** lectured in computer science. Their careers have consistently mirrored each other, a pattern evident in their shared experiences at **Google Brain**, **Anthropic**, and now **Ricursive Intelligence**. “We started at **Google Brain** on the same day. We left **Google Brain** on the same day… It’s been a remarkably consistent journey,” **Goldie** recounted.


## The "Chip Circuit Training" Legacy and Internal Recognition


During their time at **Google**, **Goldie** and **Mirhoseini** cultivated a close working relationship, often collaborating on circuit training workouts. This shared interest inspired **Jeff Dean**, a renowned **Google** engineer and their collaborator, to playfully nickname their **Alpha Chip** project “chip circuit training.” Internally, the pair were affectionately known as “A&A,” reflecting their collaborative dynamic. Despite their success, the team faced internal challenges, including a 2022 incident where a **Google** colleague was terminated after attempting to discredit their work, despite its vital role in producing key **Google** AI chips.


## Alpha Chip: Proving the Concept of AI-Driven Design


The **Alpha Chip** project at **Google Brain** served as the conceptual bedrock for **Ricursive Intelligence**. It demonstrated the transformative potential of using AI to significantly accelerate the chip design process. The traditional process involves meticulously placing millions or even billions of logic gate components on a silicon wafer, a task that can consume over a year for human designers to optimize for performance and power efficiency.

**Goldie** elaborated on **Alpha Chip’s** capabilities, stating, “It could generate a very high-quality layout in, like, six hours. And the cool thing about this approach was that it actually learns from experience.” The system utilizes a “reward signal” to evaluate design quality, allowing the AI to iteratively refine its approach through deep neural network parameter updates. This learning process enables the AI to progressively improve its design capabilities over time.


## Ricursive’s Platform: Continuous Learning and LLM Integration


**Ricursive’s** platform builds upon this foundation, incorporating a system where the AI learns across different chip designs. This cross-chip learning enables each new design to contribute to the AI’s overall expertise, leading to continuous improvement. The platform also integrates Large Language Models (LLMs) and handles a comprehensive range of design tasks, from component placement to design verification, targeting any company involved in electronics manufacturing that requires chips.


## A Vision for Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and Hardware Efficiency


Looking ahead, **Ricursive Intelligence** envisions a future where its platform plays a pivotal role in achieving **Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)**. Their ultimate goal is to enable AI to design its own computer brains, a prospect with profound implications. “Chips are the fuel for AI,” **Goldie** asserted. “I think by building more powerful chips, that’s the best way to advance that frontier.” **Mirhoseini** added that the current lengthy chip-design process is a significant constraint on AI advancement, stating, “We think we can also enable this fast co-evolution of the models and the chips that basically power them.”

Beyond AGI, **Ricursive** emphasizes the potential for significantly improved hardware efficiency. By enabling AI to design highly specialized and optimized chip architectures, the company believes it can achieve a tenfold increase in performance per unit cost. While the company is not yet disclosing its early customers, **Goldie** confirmed that they have received interest from virtually every major chip manufacturer.

Ricursive Intelligence: $300M Boost for AI Chip Design Startup

## Samsung Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro: First Official Look


**Samsung** is poised to expand its audio offerings next week at the **Galaxy Unpacked** event, where the spotlight will be on the **Galaxy S26** series. Alongside the new smartphones, the tech giant is anticipated to introduce the next generation of its wireless earbuds: the **Galaxy Buds4** and **Galaxy Buds4 Pro**. Recent leaks, originating from a reliable tipster, have provided high-quality renders showcasing the upcoming devices.

These newly surfaced images don’t introduce groundbreaking design changes, but they deliver the most detailed preview yet of both the **Galaxy Buds4** and **Galaxy Buds4 Pro**, including their respective charging cases. The renders confirm packaging details, indicating the **Buds4 Pro** will include a charging cable and additional silicone ear tips, while the standard **Buds4** model will ship with a charging cable only. Both cases share a comparable aesthetic, though the earbuds themselves exhibit distinct design philosophies.


## Design Differences: Buds4 vs. Buds4 Pro


A key differentiator between the two models lies in their fit and construction. The **Galaxy Buds4** are designed with a semi-in-ear configuration, eschewing traditional silicone ear tips for a more open experience. Conversely, the **Galaxy Buds4 Pro** will utilize a traditional in-ear design, complete with interchangeable silicone ear tips to ensure a secure and personalized fit. 

Further distinguishing the **Buds4 Pro** is a completely redesigned stem, now featuring a flat outer surface. The charging case for the Pro variant boasts a transparent lid, allowing a glimpse of the earbuds positioned horizontally within. Internal specifications suggest the **Buds4 Pro** will be powered by a 57mAh battery, while the **Galaxy Buds4** will incorporate a slightly smaller 42mAh cell.


## New Features and Expected Pricing


Previous reports indicate that the **Galaxy Buds4** lineup will introduce innovative user interactions, including a novel pinch-and-hold gesture control.  Furthermore, **Samsung** is rumored to be integrating an **Interpreter mode** into the earbuds, potentially offering real-time translation capabilities. 

Regarding cost, early estimates suggest the **Galaxy Buds4** will be priced around €179. The premium **Galaxy Buds4 Pro** model is expected to retail for approximately €249, reflecting its enhanced features and specifications.

Galaxy Buds4 & Buds4 Pro: Official Renders Leak Before Unpacked!

**Jay Peters**, a seasoned reporter specializing in technology, gaming, and related fields, has been with *The Verge* since 2019. Prior to joining the publication, he spent close to two years as a staff member at **Techmeme**, establishing a strong foundation in the tech news landscape. Peters continues to deliver insightful coverage on the evolving world of consumer electronics and digital communication. 


## Apple Begins Testing Encrypted RCS Messaging


**Apple** has initiated testing of **end-to-end encrypted (E2EE)** **RCS (Rich Communication Services)** messaging within the latest developer beta of **iOS 26.4**, released on Monday. This move represents a significant step towards enhanced security and interoperability in mobile messaging. The implementation aims to ultimately enable secure RCS communication between users on both **iPhone** and **Android** devices, bridging a long-standing gap in messaging security.

However, the initial phase of testing is limited in scope. Currently, Apple confirms that the E2EE RCS functionality is exclusively available for communication between Apple devices and is “not yet testable with other platforms.” Despite the beta release, users should not expect immediate availability of the feature. 


## RCS Encryption Rollout Timeline


The company clarified that E2EE RCS messaging will not be included in the public release of **iOS 26.4**. Instead, Apple stated the feature is slated for deployment in a “future update,” indicating a phased rollout approach. This decision allows for thorough testing and refinement before wider distribution.

The development aligns with industry efforts to bolster RCS security. In **September 2024**, the **GSM Association**, a key organization involved in RCS development, announced its focus on E2EE messaging as a crucial component of the “next major milestone” for the **RCS Universal Profile**.  **Apple** subsequently affirmed in **March 2025** its commitment to supporting E2EE RCS across its ecosystem – **iOS**, **iPadOS**, **macOS**, and **watchOS** – in “future software updates.”


## Additional Features in iOS 26.4 Beta


Beyond the advancements in messaging security, the first **iOS 26.4** developer beta introduces a new convenience for podcast listeners. Users can now “seamlessly” transition between audio and video formats of the same podcast, offering a more flexible and engaging listening experience. This feature caters to the growing popularity of podcasts and provides a more versatile consumption method. 

This update demonstrates Apple’s ongoing commitment to refining its software offerings and incorporating features that enhance user experience and security.

Technology