Your weekly update on the major tech news from across the web has arrived. Stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech, from T-Mobile’s T‑Satellite to Snapchat and more; we have you covered. Check out this week’s tech news round-up!
Snapchat’s “Home Safe” Nudge Keeps Loved Ones Close
Snapchat introduced a “Home Safe” alert that automatically notifies select friends when you arrive home—no GPS stalking, no tapped message, just a gentle check-in. The feature uses Snap Map, only sends one alert, and works only with friends you already share location with—privacy intact, peace of mind delivered. It’s a small, smart tweak that brings reassurance without broadcast oversharing. Because sometimes “I’m home safe” feels best when whispered, yet is deeply appreciated.
Amazon Introduces Lower-Priced Kindle Colorsoft and Kids Combo
Good news for readers who crave color without a premium price tag: Amazon added a new 16 GB Kindle Colorsoft at USD 249.99 and a Kids bundle for USD 269.99. While the Signature Edition still offers extras like 32 GB and wireless charging, these new variants lower the barrier to color display, cozy reading, and vibrant comics—for both adults and little bibliophiles. It’s like giving everyone front-row seats to the colorful Kindle era.
T-Mobile’s T‑Satellite Service Goes Nationwide
T‑Mobile rolled out its Starlink-powered T‑Satellite service across the continental U.S, Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. The coverage for the T-Mobile T-Satellite comes at just USD 10/month during its launch phase. The T-Mobile service lets you text—including to emergency 911—and share your location even where cellular towers can’t reach. Picture messaging is on its way for compatible T-Mobile Androids, and T-Mobile Apple support isn’t far behind. No signal? No problem—this is “always connected” for your peace of mind.
Microsoft & Asus’ Xbox Ally Handheld Points Toward a Windows Gaming Future
Microsoft’s new Xbox Ally handhelds — built with Asus — feel like the first serious attempt to marry Xbox’s console UI with Windows-powered handheld gaming. In hands-on tests the device boots into an Xbox full-screen experience that hides much of Windows, making PC games feel more console-like while still allowing access to the desktop when needed. Performance and battery life are solid for the form factor, though reviewers note lingering UI quirks and a few early bugs that should be patched before shipping. Microsoft’s design hints at a broader strategy: a unified Xbox/Windows experience across handhelds, consoles, and PCs that could simplify gaming for mainstream users. The Ally ships later this year, and it’s an important proof-of-concept for Windows gaming on portable hardware.
YouTube Music Celebrates Ten Years with “Taste Match” Playlists
YouTube Music marked its tenth anniversary by launching curated “Taste Match” playlists. The playlists pair listeners with songs and artists tailored to their unique listening profile. The Taste Match feature leans on YouTube Music’s long history of cross-platform signals. Of course, this includes watch history, likes, and playlisting—to surface tracks listeners are statistically likely to enjoy. Playlists are dynamically generated and aim to balance familiar favorites with new discoveries, making them useful both for background listening and for finding new artists. This anniversary update underscores YouTube Music’s continued investment in personalization as a way to differentiate itself in a crowded streaming market. Expect these mixes to evolve as the service learns from more listening signals.
HoverAir’s Aqua Drone Floats, Films, and Tracks with Lighthouse Beacons
HoverAir unveiled the Aqua, a floating 4K drone that can take off from and land on water. HoverAir’s Drone uses a lighthouse-style tracking beacon to maintain subject lock and return accuracy. The Aqua’s buoyant hull and sealed components let it operate in lake and coastal environments. Likewise, the lighthouse accessory improves tracking for long-range shots and autonomous follow modes. It records stabilized 4K video and supports waypoint missions, making it appealing to creators who need cinematic water footage. Early demos show smooth footage and reliable returns, though real-world battery and retrieval logistics will determine its broad appeal. If you shoot a lot of water scenes, Aqua promises a simpler workflow than launching from a boat or shore.