Tech News — Mar 19, 2026

Tech News — Mar 19, 2026 | Trace

The day in brief

What connected the day

20 topics

01
3 sources · 3 updates
OpenAI to Acquire Astral for Codex Expansion
OpenAI has announced its acquisition of Astral, a startup specializing in developer tools, to enhance its AI coding assistant, Codex. This move comes as Codex has seen a significant surge in popularity, now boasting over 2 million weekly active users, and aims to integrate Astral's tools directly into its platform.
- Astral's tools, including Ruff and ty, are widely utilized in Python development.
02
3 sources · 3 updates
NHTSA Intensifies Tesla Full Self-Driving Probe
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is escalating its investigation into Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system due to safety concerns related to reduced visibility conditions. This probe, which now encompasses 3.2 million vehicles including the Model S, X, 3, Y, and Cybertruck, follows multiple collision complaints, including incidents that resulted in fatalities.
- The investigation was elevated to an 'engineering analysis' after reports of four crashes in low-visibility situations.
- Tesla's degradation detection system has reportedly failed to alert drivers before crashes in poor visibility conditions.
03
2 sources · 2 updates
CISA Issues Urgent Security Advisory After Stryker Cyberattack
Pro-Iran hackers from the Handala group have claimed responsibility for a cyberattack on Stryker Corp., resulting in the mass-wiping of data from tens of thousands of employee devices. In response, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has urged companies to enhance their security measures for Microsoft Intune to prevent similar incidents.
- CISA advises implementing dual approval for sensitive changes in Microsoft Intune systems.
- The attack exploited vulnerabilities in Stryker's Windows-based network, disrupting global operations.
04
2 sources · 2 updates
FBI Resumes Purchase of Citizens' Location Data
The FBI and Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) have resumed purchasing location data of U.S. citizens from data brokers without obtaining warrants. This practice, which the FBI had previously claimed to have halted in 2023, has drawn criticism from Senator Ron Wyden, who labels it an 'outrageous violation of the Fourth Amendment.' A bipartisan effort, the Government Surveillance Reform Act, is underway to address the legal loophole that permits these acquisitions.
- Kash Patel, the FBI director, confirmed the agency's renewed purchases during a Senate hearing.
05
1 sources · 3 updates
Apple Watch's Blood Oxygen Feature Passes Legal Test
An ITC judge has ruled that the redesigned blood oxygen feature on the Apple Watch does not infringe on patents held by Masimo. However, the original blood oxygen feature remains banned in the U.S. due to a previous ruling, prompting Apple to explore additional legal options.
- The Federal Circuit upheld a prior ruling that bans the original blood oxygen feature in the U.S.
- Apple continues to sell the redesigned blood oxygen feature but cannot restore the original version.
06
1 sources · 2 updates
Nobel Winner Urges Europe to Innovate
Philippe Aghion, a 2025 Nobel Prize winner in economics, has called for a revitalization of Europe's technology sector, describing it as a 'Sleeping Beauty' that has stagnated for the past 30-40 years. He warns that Europe has become overly dependent on foreign technological advancements, particularly from the US, and emphasizes the need for increased investment in innovation within the continent.
- Aghion highlights that Europe has relied on global tech advancements for decades, hindering its own growth.
07
1 sources · 1 updates
Meta to cut back on third-party vendors in favor of AI for content enforcement
Meta is initiating a yearslong transition to advanced AI systems for content enforcement, moving away from third-party vendors that have traditionally managed content moderation. The company plans to leverage its AI investments to more effectively detect scams and illegal media, while still retaining human oversight for complex cases. This shift reflects Meta's strategy to streamline operations amid ongoing challenges in content moderation and revenue generation.
- Meta's new AI systems aim to improve content enforcement over several years.
- The company will still involve human reviewers for complex decisions.
08
1 sources · 1 updates
AI Coding Startup Cursor Plans New Model to Rival Anthropic, OpenAI
Cursor, a prominent AI coding startup, is preparing to launch Composer 2, a new AI model aimed at improving software development efficiency. This release comes as larger competitors like Anthropic and OpenAI introduce their own advanced models, intensifying the competition in the AI coding space. Since its inception in 2023, Cursor has rapidly grown, attracting over 1 million daily users and establishing partnerships with major companies like Stripe and Figma.
- Cursor has over 1 million daily users, including 50,000 businesses.
- The new model, Composer 2, is designed to handle lengthy coding tasks.
09
1 sources · 3 updates
Apple Unveils iOS 26.4 with New Features and Enhancements
Apple has released the first release candidate for iOS 26.4, introducing a host of new features including 8 new emoji characters and a redesigned Apple Music interface. The update also enhances accessibility and includes an AI-powered 'Playlist Playground' feature, aimed at improving user experience.
- 13 enhancements are included in the update, with features like improved subtitle settings and Family Sharing payment options.
- iOS 26.4 introduces per-device Personal Hotspot data usage reports and better CarPlay video support.
10
1 sources · 1 updates
Meta decides not to shut down Horizon Worlds on VR after all
Meta has decided to continue supporting Horizon Worlds on its VR headsets, a reversal from earlier plans to shut down the app. This decision, confirmed by CTO Andrew Bosworth, comes amid significant financial losses in Meta's Reality Labs division, which has lost $73 billion since 2021. While the app will remain available on VR, Meta is shifting its focus to mobile, where it has seen greater user engagement and downloads.
- Meta's Reality Labs division has lost $73 billion since 2021.
- Horizon Worlds mobile app downloads reached 45 million globally.
11
1 sources · 1 updates
Italian court scraps 15-million-euro privacy watchdog fine on ChatGPT-maker OpenAI
A Rome court has canceled a €15 million ($17 million) fine levied against OpenAI by Italy's data protection authority, Garante, for alleged violations of privacy laws. OpenAI welcomed the decision, reiterating its commitment to user privacy and expressing eagerness to engage with Italian users. The fine was originally imposed in December 2024, and the court had temporarily suspended it in March 2025 while reviewing the case.
- The fine was originally issued in December 2024 for alleged unlawful data use.
- OpenAI welcomed the ruling, emphasizing its commitment to user privacy.
12
1 sources · 1 updates
Google Pixel found enough of a foldable phone niche to maybe stay relevant following ‘iPhone Fold’
As Apple prepares to launch its first foldable smartphone, Google Pixel has successfully carved out a niche in the foldable market, achieving a 2% share. Despite being the smallest player, Google is expected to retain its audience in 2026, thanks in part to its unique book-style foldable offerings in the U.S. and some success in Europe.
- Google Pixel currently holds a 2% share of the foldable smartphone market.
- Apple is projected to capture 28% of the foldable market upon its entry.
13
1 sources · 1 updates
Tubi and TikTok are partnering to produce long form series
Tubi and TikTok have announced a partnership to launch the Creatorverse Incubator, aimed at helping TikTok stars develop original long-form series for Tubi's streaming platform. This initiative will allow selected creators to work with Tubi on a variety of scripted and unscripted projects, with the first cohort expected to be revealed later this summer. TikTok's global head of entertainment partnerships emphasized the goal of empowering creators to expand their audiences and tell larger stories.
- The Creatorverse Incubator will focus on long-form content from TikTok creators.
- Tubi plans to announce its first cohort of participants later this summer.
14
1 sources · 1 updates
Amazon brings Alexa+ to the UK
Amazon has launched its AI-powered assistant, Alexa+, in the UK, making it the first country outside North America to receive the service. Users can participate in a free early access program by purchasing the new Amazon Echo, with plans to extend access to hundreds of thousands of customers soon. After the program, Prime subscribers will enjoy Alexa+ at no extra cost, while non-Prime users will need to pay £19.99 monthly. The assistant has been tailored for UK users, incorporating local phrases and context through efforts from Amazon's Tech Hub in Cambridge.
- Users in the UK can access Alexa+ for free through an early access program.
- After the program, Prime subscribers will use Alexa+ for free, while non-Prime users will pay £19.99 per month.
15
1 sources · 1 updates
The Fed decision, Micron earnings, Amazon's USPS contract and more in Morning Squawk
The Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates unchanged during its recent meeting, but Chair Jerome Powell expressed concerns that inflation has not decreased as anticipated. This news, combined with a significant rise in oil prices following Iranian strikes, has led to a drop in stock futures. Additionally, Micron reported a nearly tripled quarterly revenue but saw its shares decline as investors took profits after a substantial increase in stock price.
- The Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged but warned about rising inflation expectations.
- Micron's quarterly revenue nearly tripled year-over-year, but shares fell over 5% after a significant run-up.
16
1 sources · 1 updates
Alibaba Revenue Disappoints as AI Profit Push Grows Urgent
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. reported a significant 67% drop in net income, reflecting the urgent need to monetize its costly AI initiatives. Despite a 2% increase in revenue to 284.8 billion yuan ($41.3 billion) for the last quarter, the results fell short of projections, leading to a 4% decline in the company's US-listed shares in pre-market trading. This disappointing performance highlights the challenges Alibaba faces amid fierce competition in the e-commerce sector.
- Alibaba's net income fell 67%, marking its worst performance since early 2024.
- The company's revenue increased by only 2%, totaling 284.8 billion yuan ($41.3 billion).
17
1 sources · 1 updates
Samsung Aims to Invest Record $73 Billion on AI Chip Thrust
Samsung Electronics plans to invest over $73 billion in 2026 to expand its chip capacity and explore AI technology. This significant investment comes as demand surges for high-end memory chips essential for AI development, particularly those used by Nvidia, while simultaneously creating a shortage of conventional memory chips found in everyday devices.
- Samsung plans to allocate 110 trillion won ($73.3 billion) for capital expenditure and research in 2026.
- The investment aims to enhance Samsung's leadership in AI technology amid rising demand for high-end memory chips.
18
1 sources · 1 updates
Alibaba revenue misses estimates in December quarter as net income drops 66%
Alibaba's latest earnings report reveals a significant decline, with revenue of 284.8 billion yuan ($41.4 billion) falling short of analyst expectations of 290.7 billion yuan. The company's net income plummeted by 66% year-over-year as it pivots from e-commerce to becoming a leader in AI, pledging substantial investments in technology and cloud infrastructure.
- Alibaba's revenue for the December quarter was 284.8 billion yuan ($41.4 billion), below the 290.7 billion yuan expected.
- The company's net income dropped 66% year-over-year as it invests heavily in AI and cloud infrastructure.
19
1 sources · 1 updates
NVIDIA wants enterprise AI agents safer to deploy
NVIDIA has launched the Agent Toolkit, an open-source software stack designed to help enterprises deploy autonomous AI agents while maintaining control over data and liability. Central to this toolkit is OpenShell, which establishes security and privacy guardrails for these agents, addressing the trust issues that have hindered broader adoption. Major companies such as Salesforce and Siemens are already integrating the toolkit into their operations, highlighting its immediate relevance in enterprise environments.
- NVIDIA's toolkit includes OpenShell, which enforces security and privacy for AI agents.
- The toolkit is already integrated with major partners like Salesforce and Siemens.
20
1 sources · 1 updates
Nvidia is quietly building a multibillion-dollar behemoth to rival its chips business
Nvidia's networking division, which connects data centers, has emerged as a powerhouse, generating $11 billion in revenue last quarter alone, a staggering 267% increase from the previous year. This growth follows CEO Jensen Huang's strategic acquisition of Mellanox in 2020, positioning Nvidia to leverage its networking capabilities alongside its GPU business, making it a critical player in the AI infrastructure space.
- Nvidia's networking division reported $11 billion in revenue last quarter, a 267% increase year-over-year.
- The division has become Nvidia's second-largest revenue source, surpassing Cisco's networking business in quarterly revenue.

The archive

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The tech day has moved on.

What connected the day

OpenAI to Acquire Astral for Codex Expansion

NHTSA Intensifies Tesla Full Self-Driving Probe

CISA Issues Urgent Security Advisory After Stryker Cyberattack

FBI Resumes Purchase of Citizens' Location Data

Apple Watch's Blood Oxygen Feature Passes Legal Test

Nobel Winner Urges Europe to Innovate

Meta to cut back on third-party vendors in favor of AI for content enforcement

AI Coding Startup Cursor Plans New Model to Rival Anthropic, OpenAI

Apple Unveils iOS 26.4 with New Features and Enhancements

Meta decides not to shut down Horizon Worlds on VR after all

Italian court scraps 15-million-euro privacy watchdog fine on ChatGPT-maker OpenAI

Google Pixel found enough of a foldable phone niche to maybe stay relevant following ‘iPhone Fold’

Tubi and TikTok are partnering to produce long form series

Amazon brings Alexa+ to the UK

The Fed decision, Micron earnings, Amazon's USPS contract and more in Morning Squawk

Alibaba Revenue Disappoints as AI Profit Push Grows Urgent

Samsung Aims to Invest Record $73 Billion on AI Chip Thrust

Alibaba revenue misses estimates in December quarter as net income drops 66%

NVIDIA wants enterprise AI agents safer to deploy

Nvidia is quietly building a multibillion-dollar behemoth to rival its chips business

What moved

World Bank Targets AI-Resilient Sectors to Boost Job Creation

DoorDash’s New Paid Tasks Turn Couriers Into AI and Robot Trainers

You've seen the record. See the live version.

AI Coding Startup Cursor Plans New Model to Rival Anthropic, OpenAI

You've seen the record. See the live version.

Meta to cut back on third-party vendors in favor of AI for content enforcement

Oppenheimer Raises PT on KLA (KLAC) Stock to $1,900

Bank of America Securities Reiterates a Buy Rating on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSM) Stock

RBC Capital Maintains a Sector Perform Rating on Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) Stock

Paid streaming for cheapskates is having a moment

OpenAI to acquire developer tooling startup Astral in boost for Codex team

Crypto.com lays off 12% of workforce as latest company to cite AI in job cuts

K2 to launch its first high-powered satellite for space compute

Consumer-focused privacy company Cloaked raises $375M as it expands to enterprise

Arc expands into electric commercial and defense boats with $50M raise

Adobe’s AI image generator can now be trained on your own art

Fitbit&#8217;s AI health coach will soon be able to read your medical records

Phone trade-ins paid out $6.4B in 2025 as Android users kept their phones longer than iPhone users

SmartGym’s massive update brings stretch suggestions, routine segments, training load, more

Visa prepares payment systems for AI agent-initiated transactions

Asia tech stocks sink as oil spike and Qatar attacks threaten chip supply chain

NVIDIA wants enterprise AI agents safer to deploy

The Fed decision, Micron earnings, Amazon's USPS contract and more in Morning Squawk

Alphabet’s X has a new spinout, and it’s going after one of the world’s most expensive bureaucratic nightmares

Tools for founders to navigate and move past conflict

Apple TV reveals major new film with Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence

Fitbit’s AI health coach will soon be able to read your medical records