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From Copilots to Agents: Rebuilding the Company Around AI
Business
Feb 19, 2026

From Copilots to Agents: Rebuilding the Company Around AI

Here's something that might surprise you — Kavak, Latin America's largest used car marketplace, went all-in on AI. Carlos García Ottati, Kavak’s CEO, joins Angela Strange and Gabriel Vasquez from a16z to share how they replaced traditional copilot tools with AI agents that now handle 90 to 95% of customer interactions. It wasn’t easy — they went through a tough year of going flat, but the payoff? They grew four times over. Now, here’s where it gets interesting: building in emerging markets means actually running four businesses under one roof — local logistics, financing, customer service, and more. According to content+a16zpodcast@a16z, this layered approach is what makes scaling in places like Brazil and Mexico possible. So what does this mean for your business? Embracing AI isn’t just about automation — it’s about rethinking every part of your operation to grow faster and stronger, even in challenging markets. Keep an eye on how AI keeps transforming the way companies build from the ground up.

Power in the Age of Intelligence
Business
Feb 19, 2026

Power in the Age of Intelligence

Here's something that caught my attention — Power isn't just about raw strength anymore. According to Packy McCormick, in his essay 'Power in the Age of Intelligence,' the real game-changers are the companies that harness new technology to dominate industries. Instead of worrying about software moats, McCormick points out that the winners will be those leveraging abundant inputs — think SaaS and hardware — that give them a massive competitive edge. Now, here's where it gets interesting — these companies will become the Standard Oils of this era, expanding their reach far beyond traditional limits. Packy highlights how recent trends, like crypto’s return to the mainstream, are just part of a bigger shift: technology is creating new forms of power that will reshape markets. So what does this mean for you? Keep an eye on those companies that use data, AI, and emerging tech — they’re building the future’s dominant giants, and their rise will be rapid and unstoppable.

From Customer Interviews to an Opportunity Solution Tree—In Minutes
Business
Feb 19, 2026

From Customer Interviews to an Opportunity Solution Tree—In Minutes

Here’s something that’ll change how you turn customer chats into real product ideas — imagine going from just three interviews to a draft opportunity solution tree in minutes. Teresa Torres, writing in Business, explains how many teams get stuck after interviewing — they have recordings but no clear way to synthesize what they learn. Now, with AI-powered tools from Vistaly, you can upload a handful of interviews, and the system extracts key moments and generates a first draft of your opportunity tree. ((slower)) This isn’t about one-click magic — Teresa makes it clear that the goal is to support your insight, not replace it. You review, refine, and add your judgment. And this isn’t just a gimmick; research shows combining human expertise with AI yields better results. So, if you’re curious about shaping the future of discovery tools, Teresa invites you to join the alpha and help build something that bridges the gap between customer insights and actionable product strategies.

Shopify Earnings, Shopify’s AI Advantages
Technology
Feb 19, 2026

Shopify Earnings, Shopify’s AI Advantages

Here's something that caught my attention — Shopify is set to be a huge winner from AI. And honestly, understanding how it leverages this tech could change the game for investors. According to Ben Thompson writing in TechCrunch, Shopify's strength isn’t just in selling online; it’s in how it’s integrating AI to streamline commerce. What Thompson points out is that Shopify’s AI tools help merchants personalize their stores and predict what customers want before they even ask. So, this isn’t just about smarter ads — it's about creating a seamless shopping experience that keeps users coming back. But here’s where it gets interesting — Shopify’s AI isn’t a shiny add-on, it’s baked into the core of their platform, giving them a real edge. And get this — if they keep innovating like this, their growth could accelerate even more, making Shopify a name to watch. So, for anyone keeping an eye on the future of e-commerce, Shopify’s AI advantage is worth paying attention to.

Hallucinogen DMT an effective antidepressant in small clinical trial
Technology
Feb 19, 2026

Hallucinogen DMT an effective antidepressant in small clinical trial

Here's something that caught my attention — DMT, the quick-acting hallucinogen best known for its role in ayahuasca, might actually be a game-changer for depression treatment. John Timmer reports in Tech that recent small trials show DMT can relieve depressive symptoms just as well as longer-lasting psychedelics. Now, here’s where it gets interesting — researchers believe that these drugs help by rewiring the brain, creating new connections among neurons. But the puzzle is how the hallucinogenic effects tie into this big brain change. According to Timmer, the challenge has always been the hallucinations, which can last hours and knock people out of commission. Yet, the exciting part is that DMT’s ultra-brief experience might sidestep that — delivering rapid relief without prolonged disorientation. So what does this actually mean for you? It’s a promising step toward safer, faster mental health treatments. Keep an eye on this space — because the implications could be huge, especially for those desperate for quick relief.

Meta’s face turn
Technology
Feb 19, 2026

Meta’s face turn

Here's something that might surprise you — Meta's planning to bring back its facial recognition system after pulling the plug in 2021. So, why does this matter now? Well, according to Casey Newton writing in Technology, Meta’s new policy shift feels like a reset to its earlier, more invasive ways. They’re betting that facial recognition could help with things like personalized ads or user verification, despite the backlash from privacy advocates. What Newton points out is that this move seems to be part of a broader strategy to re-engage users and gather more data, even if it ruffles feathers. And get this — it's happening during what some are calling a 'Trump 2.0' era of policy reversals, where privacy concerns take a back seat. So, the big question for you — what does this mean for your own data? Will this be just another step toward more surveillance, or is Meta betting on a privacy rollback that we didn’t see coming? Honestly, it’s a story to watch as it unfolds.

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Technology
Feb 19, 2026

Inside the DHS forum where ICE agents trash talk one another

Here's something that might surprise you — inside a DHS forum, ICE agents are trash-talking each other like a bunch of friends venting after a rough day. Vittoria Elliott from wired.com uncovered that every day, current and former Homeland Security Investigations officers log in to share their thoughts, complain, and even roast their colleagues. For example, one user sarcastically criticized ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) team for dressing up like action-hero wannabes instead of doing simple arrests inside federal buildings. Now, here's where it gets interesting — this forum isn’t just for venting; it’s a space for both seasoned agents and rookies to exchange ideas and frustrations. According to Elliott, it reveals a side of law enforcement we rarely see — one full of humor, stress, and real talk about the job. So, what does this mean? Even the toughest agents can’t help but let their guard down sometimes, and that’s worth paying attention to.

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Technology
Feb 19, 2026

X-rays reveal kingfisher feather structure in unprecedented detail

Here's something that’ll blow your mind — scientists have used high-energy X-ray imaging to unveil the nanostructure of kingfisher feathers, revealing how these birds create their stunning iridescence. Jennifer Ouellette, writing for Science, explains that these feathers aren’t just colorful by chance — they’re built like tiny photonic crystals, kind of like nature’s own nanoscale mirrors. These structures, made of microscopic ridges on keratin, manipulate light through diffraction, producing those vibrant, shifting hues we associate with kingfishers. Now, what’s wild is that these photonic crystals are tunable; change their size, and you can shift which wavelengths of light they block or let through. That’s why scientists are so interested — they’re looking at how this natural nanotechnology could inspire everything from better optical fibers to stealth materials. As Jennifer highlights, understanding this intricate design isn’t just about appreciating bird beauty — it’s about unlocking new ways to control light with precision. And get this — nature’s been doing nanotech long before we even knew what to call it.

Google's Pixel 10a arrives on March 5 for $499 with specs and design of yesteryear
Technology
Feb 19, 2026

Google's Pixel 10a arrives on March 5 for $499 with specs and design of yesteryear

Here's something that caught my attention — Google’s new Pixel 10a drops on March 5 for $499, and honestly, it looks pretty similar to last year's model. Ryan Whitwam from Ars Technica points out that Google didn’t make many visual changes; the only real difference is that the camera now sits flush with the back, making it look sleeker. Inside, it’s pretty much the same, sporting the Google Tensor G4 chip, 8GB RAM, and the same storage options. But there are a couple upgrades — like a brighter screen that hits 3,000 nits and Gorilla Glass 7i for better durability. Plus, the battery stays at 5,100 mAh but charges faster with 30W wired charging. According to Whitwam, it’s largely a refresh with tweaked specs, aimed at budget-conscious buyers who don’t mind the familiar look. So what does this actually mean? If you're after the latest design innovation, you might be disappointed. But if you want solid specs at a good price, this could still be worth a look.

Elon’s wildest interview yet — our reaction
Technology
Feb 19, 2026

Elon’s wildest interview yet — our reaction

Here’s something that caught my attention — Elon Musk’s latest interview is downright wild. And the way he talks about his abilities and sense of urgency? It’s next level. According to My First Million, Elon shows evidence of exceptional skill, but it’s his manic drive that really stands out. Now, here’s where it gets interesting — he’s all about limiting factors, like how human focus is a bottleneck, which Shaan Puri and Sam Parr discuss in their reaction. They point out that Elon’s approach is almost like building human emulators, pushing our mental limits. But it’s not just about his genius; it’s about the attention economy, and what’s stolen from us in the process. As My First Million highlights, maybe we should start testing our own focus, kind of like an attention fitness routine. So, keep an eye on how Elon’s mindset might just redefine how we work and think in this fast-paced world.

FDA does U-turn, will review Moderna's mRNA flu shot after shocking rejection
Technology
Feb 19, 2026

FDA does U-turn, will review Moderna's mRNA flu shot after shocking rejection

Here's something that caught my attention — the FDA did a complete 180 on Moderna’s mRNA flu vaccine. Just last week, they shockingly refused to even review it, a move that seemed driven more by politics than science, according to Beth Mole writing in Technology. The decision was made by Vinay Prasad, a Trump-era appointee, who overruled agency scientists and a top official, which raised eyebrows across the industry. But here’s where it gets interesting: Moderna didn’t just give up. They held a formal meeting with the FDA, proposed a new way to navigate the approval process, and now, the agency has agreed to review their vaccine. That’s a big shift, especially after such a controversial rejection. As Beth Mole reports, this turnaround shows how regulatory paths can still change — especially when companies push back with new data and proposals. So, keep an eye — this could set a new precedent for vaccine approvals moving forward.

Microsoft's new 10,000-year data storage medium: glass
Technology
Feb 19, 2026

Microsoft's new 10,000-year data storage medium: glass

Ever wonder how we might store data for thousands of years without it fading away? Well, Microsoft’s got a new trick — etched glass. According to John Timmer writing in Technology, they’ve developed Project Silica, which can write and read data into small glass slabs at an incredible density — over a gigabit per cubic millimeter. Now, here’s where it gets interesting — glass isn’t just fragile or prone to shattering. Microsoft’s researchers point out that with the right chemical mix, glass can be incredibly stable, resistant to moisture, temperature swings, and electromagnetic interference. This makes it a prime candidate for long-term storage, say, for centuries or even longer. And get this — Microsoft’s work isn’t just theoretical. As Timmer reports, they’ve actually demonstrated a working system that could last 10,000 years. So, what does this mean for your data? Basically, the future of archival storage might be glass — simple, durable, and capable of standing the test of time.

5 changes to know about in Apple's latest iOS, macOS, and iPadOS betas
Technology
Feb 19, 2026

5 changes to know about in Apple's latest iOS, macOS, and iPadOS betas

Here's something that caught my attention — Apple’s latest beta updates are packed with surprises. You know how these *4 releases usually bring cool features? Well, Andrew Cunningham from TechCrunch points out that this year’s betas keep that streak alive. One of the big highlights? The new 'Playlist Playground' in Apple Music, which lets you generate playlists from text prompts — imagine just telling your device what mood you’re in. And get this — native support for video podcasts is on the way, making the Podcasts app way more versatile. Andrew also mentions that the Creator Studio version of Freeform is getting a boost, with access to stock images and AI-generated visuals, which could seriously change how you collaborate. So, what does this mean for you? These updates hint at a more personalized, creative, and seamless Apple experience ahead. Keep an eye out — Apple’s rolling out the future, one beta at a time.

Lawsuit: EPA revoking greenhouse gas finding risks “thousands of avoidable deaths”
Technology
Feb 19, 2026

Lawsuit: EPA revoking greenhouse gas finding risks “thousands of avoidable deaths”

Here's something that might shock you — according to Ashley Belanger writing in Technology, the EPA just took a major step back on climate rules. They’ve revoked an 'endangerment finding' that’s been the legal backbone for decades of climate regulation. Now, this move isn’t just bureaucratic red tape; it’s a direct hit to public health, opening the door for more pollution and climate disasters. More than a dozen groups, including the Sierra Club and the American Lung Association, are calling out this decision, arguing that it’s driven by fossil fuel interests and ignores the mounting science on deadly consequences like wildfires, floods, and droughts. What’s wild is, as Ashley points out, the Trump-era EPA was already seen as anti-science, but this step feels like a total rollback of protections that could cost thousands of lives — avoidable deaths, really. So, get this — regulators are now risking the health of millions just to benefit industry. The fight isn’t over, but the stakes couldn’t be higher.

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Technology
Feb 19, 2026

Chevy Bolt, BMW i3, or something else? At $10K, you have lots of EV options

Here's something that caught my attention — at just $10,000, your electric vehicle options are actually pretty decent. You might not get the latest fancy features, but according to Jonathan Gitlin from Ars Technica, there's a surprising variety of used EVs that could work for you. Think of it this way: if you're okay with slower charging and some battery wear, you can find models like the Chevy Bolt or BMW i3 in that price range. Now, here's where it gets interesting — these older EVs often have minimal battery degradation, especially if they have active cooling. But, and this is a big but, you’ll need a reliable place to charge — preferably at home or work — since fast charging isn’t usually an option. So what does this mean for you? Even on a tight budget, going electric isn’t out of reach. Just be prepared for some trade-offs, and make sure your charging setup is solid. The good news? The used EV market is actually pretty vibrant right now, and your options are more than you’d think.

Verizon acknowledges "pain" of new unlock policy, suggests change is coming
Technology
Feb 19, 2026

Verizon acknowledges "pain" of new unlock policy, suggests change is coming

Here's something that caught my attention — Verizon is finally considering dropping its frustrating 35-day wait for unlocking paid-off phones. You see, until now, if you paid off your device early — whether online, via the app, or with a gift card — you still had to wait over a month before you could switch carriers. According to Jon Brodkin writing in Ars Technica, Verizon claims the delay is meant to prevent fraud, but honestly, it’s just an inconvenience for customers who want flexibility. Now, here's where it gets interesting — Verizon hasn't officially announced when they’ll change this policy. A statement from them, as Brodkin reports, offers no timeline, but the fact they’re even thinking about it suggests they’re feeling the heat from user complaints. So, what does this mean for you? If you've paid off a device early, chances are, soon you'll be able to unlock it without waiting weeks. Keep an eye on this space — change might be coming sooner than you think.

The robots who predict the future
AI
Feb 19, 2026

The robots who predict the future

Here's something that might surprise you — our future is increasingly shaped by algorithms that predict almost everything about our lives. Bryan Gardiner points out that humans have always been natural forecasters, from reading tea leaves to analyzing data. Now, those predictions are everywhere — on social media, in job screens, even in medical decisions. According to Max Kasy, an economist Bryan discusses, these algorithms are driven by profit motives, often reinforcing biases and entrenching inequality. The real issue isn’t just bias; it’s control. Kasy argues that fixing this means democratic oversight over data and AI tools, but that’s a tall order given public trust is at an all-time low. Meanwhile, Benjamin Recht explains that our obsession with rational decision-making — rooted in a false idea of “mathematical rationality” — has deep roots, dating back to WWII. The question isn’t just how to regulate AI, but whether we should trust algorithms more than human intuition. The future’s in our hands, and the way we approach prediction might determine how much power we really want to give machines — and each other.

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AI
Feb 19, 2026

Apple is planning three new AI wearables

Here's something that caught my attention — Apple's ramping up development of three new AI wearables, and the implications are pretty fascinating. According to Martin Crowley writing in AI, these devices include smart glasses with a high-res camera and environmental vision, an AI pendant packed with cameras and microphones, and camera-enabled AirPods. Now, here’s where it gets interesting — Apple is designing all three around Siri, making them serious players in the AI hardware race. The smart glasses could act as your all-day AI buddy, understanding what you're seeing, while the pendant aims to be your always-on eyes and ears, worn as a necklace or clipped to clothing. And get this — AirPods with cameras might even launch this year. But here’s the thing — these products show Apple's strongest push into wearable AI hardware yet, competing with Meta’s smart glasses. As Crowley notes, the big question for business leaders is whether Siri will be ready to truly power these next-gen devices. That’s a story worth watching.

The bogus four-day workweek that AI supposedly ‘frees up’
AI
Feb 19, 2026

The bogus four-day workweek that AI supposedly ‘frees up’

Here's something that might sound too good to be true — AI could supposedly free up our workweeks. But hold on — there’s a catch. The Washington Post recently hyped up the idea that AI is leading companies to adopt four-day workweeks, giving workers more time off. Sounds great, right? Well, Robert Reich, a former US secretary of labor, points out that this narrative often overlooks a harsh reality: without real power, workers aren’t the ones controlling these changes. Instead, it's business leaders and tech giants shaping the benefits. Reich explains that many companies tout shorter weeks as a perk, but the truth is, unless workers have a say, they won’t truly share in the gains. So what does this actually mean? The so-called ‘AI-fueled’ workweek might just be another empty promise — unless workers organize and demand a real say in how these changes roll out. Keep an eye — because the future of work isn’t just about tech, it’s about power.

Indian AI lab Sarvam’s new models are a major bet on the viability of open source AI
AI
Feb 19, 2026

Indian AI lab Sarvam’s new models are a major bet on the viability of open source AI

Here's something that caught my attention — an Indian AI lab called Sarvam is really betting big on open source AI. They’ve just rolled out a lineup of models, including a 30-billion-parameter one and a massive 105-billion-parameter model, according to Jagmeet Singh writing in AI. But that’s not all — they’ve also developed a text-to-speech tool, a speech-to-text model, and even a vision system for parsing documents. Now, here’s where it gets interesting: Sarvam’s move signals a shift towards more accessible, collaborative AI development. Instead of relying solely on proprietary tech, they’re putting out powerful models for anyone to use and improve. As Singh points out, this could shake up the industry, making AI more democratized. So, what does this actually mean for your work? Companies might soon have more flexible, cost-effective options, and innovation could accelerate faster than ever before. Keep an eye on Sarvam — this could be a game-changer.