TechCapsules

Xbox announced Xbox Labs, a new initiative aimed at investigating the rapid decompilation, remixing, and repurposing of games across platforms. The program, led by CTO Scott Van Vliet, will bring together game makers, engineers, and scientists to experiment with emerging technologies without explicitly referencing AI. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma highlighted the growing trend of games being recompiled for unsupported hardware and the blending of major titles into each other’s source code. The lab will operate openly, measuring success [...]

Apple released the fourth developer beta of iOS 27.2 for iPhone, following the public launch of iOS 27 on September 14. The update skips the interim iOS 27.1, which was dedicated to the new iPhone Duo foldable device. Developers now have access to the iOS 27.2 SDK, enabling them to optimize apps for the Duo’s dual‑display format. Apple also rolled out Xcode 27.1 beta, adding a Duo simulator and development tools. The public beta is now available

Meta unveiled “Your Algorithm,” an AI‑powered tool that lets Facebook users dictate the content appearing in their Feed and Reels through natural‑language preferences. Launched after a similar feature on Instagram, the tool replaces purely automated recommendations with user‑directed input, allowing real‑time adjustments. Meta added a new three‑dot menu option for easy access, letting users mark posts as “Interested” or “Not interested” and provide detailed feedback. The feature aims to make recommendations more relevant and mirrors streaming‑style personalization. [...]

Apple released the fourth developer beta of macOS 27.2 Golden Gate, available to the public and developers at 5:56 p.m. ET. The update follows a weekly cycle after a two‑week pause between betas 2 and 3. Key changes include Siri AI adding French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish support, expanding beyond its initial English‑only rollout. New gesture‑recognition tools appear in built‑in apps, hinting at a forthcoming touchscreen MacBook Pro. The beta’s build number is 26B5112a, likely the final pre‑RC release for developers testing new features [...]

Flox Intelligence, founded by Sara Nozkova, develops AI‑powered edge devices that detect wildlife near infrastructure and emit species‑specific deterrent sounds. The system uses motion sensors, on‑device cameras, and adaptive audio to prevent animals from colliding with trains, airports, and roads, reducing costly delays and damage. With 150 units deployed across North America, Europe, and Australia, Flox offers a subscription‑based software platform for monitoring and compliance. The startup, a finalist at TechCrunch Disrupt, projects $1.5 million revenue by 2026. [...]

Apple has released the second release candidates for macOS Sequoia 15.8.2 and macOS Tahoe 26.7.2, following the initial candidates a week earlier. The new RCs are available to the public for testing and include only “important security fixes” in their release notes, with detailed vulnerability information pending official release. Build identifiers are 24H225 for Sequoia RC 2 and 25G325 for Tahoe RC 2. Apple continues to prepare point updates while awaiting the official 27.2 release of macOS Sequoia.

Apple has announced that its new Siri AI will be available as a beta on Apple TV 4K models from the second generation onward, covering devices released since 2021. The update introduces a conversational Siri with natural‑language searches, follow‑up questions, and personalized recommendations, plus a full‑screen interface for browsing titles. Users can ask about Emmy winners, request suggestions, or inquire about current shows, with responses displayed in an overlay that does not interrupt playback. The feature requires tvOS 27.2 [...]

Rivian announced that former Ford and Tesla executive Doug Field will serve as president of its industrial AI and robotics venture, Mind Robotics, at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026. Field, known for his work on EVs and autonomous projects, will oversee product, engineering, and operations while CEO RJ Scaringe remains chairman. Mind Robotics, backed over $1 billion by major venture firms and automotive partners, aims to deploy purpose‑built robots in manufacturing, using Rivian’s production line as a training ground. The move signals the [...]