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The Pentagon has introduced its own variant of ChatGPT and Grok

The Pentagon has introduced its own variant of ChatGPT and Grok

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The Pentagon has introduced versions of OpenAI’s ChatGPT and xAI’s Grok, providing 3 million civilian and military personnel with access to generative AI tools designed to meet “warfighter needs.”

ChatGPT Mil and Grok for Government — specialized variations of the well-known consumer generative AI tools — have now become part of GenAI.mil, a centralized, secure portal established last year.

GenAI.mil, which initially offered Google Gemini upon its launch, is aimed at facilitating Department of Defense employees to access commercial cutting-edge AI models while preventing the transmission of sensitive government information through typical consumer platforms. Specifically, the official military version is exempt from the data collection that’s challenging to avoid in consumer technology products.

Furthermore, the Department of Defense has indicated that the generative AI portal has garnered significant user interest. According to the department, GenAI.mil has onboarded over 1.7 million unique users out of the department’s 3 million personnel.

These new additions are part of the Pentagon’s larger initiative to leverage AI tools to enhance productivity and provide the Department of Defense with a competitive advantage while maintaining security. They also underscore the absence of Anthropic’s Claude model and the Pentagon’s attempts to collaborate with other companies after its disagreement with the frontier lab. The Trump administration labeled Anthropic a supply-chain risk — a classification it is currently contesting in court — after the company declined to permit the Pentagon unrestricted access to its AI tools and insisted on specific safety measures.

ChatGPT Mil, developed through the company’s OpenAI for Government initiative, will provide an experience akin to that of commercial ChatGPT users. According to the Defense Department, the tool will emphasize chat, files, projects, and custom GPTs. It will also assist with document-heavy, routine unclassified tasks such as administrative duties, logistics, planning, and policy. Additional features will be integrated over time.

The Pentagon has described Grok’s functionalities and potential applications in significantly broader and more militaristic terms.

“Starshield AI’s Grok for Government will deliver immediate productivity enhancements for the warfighter, improved knowledge continuity, and more secure and efficient collaboration,” as stated in the Defense Department’s press release. (SpaceX’s Starshield AI represents a secure satellite network that utilizes the company’s existing Starlink technology.)

The department further stated that Grok would enable its military “to carry out missions more swiftly and with enhanced precision across various operational scenarios, ranging from market research analysis for acquisition specialists to supply-chain management for logisticians.”

The Pentagon has forged partnerships with several other tech firms to bolster its AI capabilities, including Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Reflection AI.

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Submit your application now to organize a Side Event at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026

Submit your application now to organize a Side Event at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026

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TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is just around the corner! From October 13-15, over 10,000 innovators, founders, investors, and industry leaders will gather at our event in San Francisco’s Moscone West, but the Bay Area community gathering extends beyond those three days.

Through our Disrupt Side Events program, you can convene people anytime between October 10-16 for a custom event that will be promoted to Disrupt’s attendees. However, time is getting short — the application deadline for Side Events is this Friday, September 4, at midnight PT, so now is the time to submit your application!

What advantages come with hosting a Side Event?

Organizing a Side Event empowers you to dictate how your community interacts, putting your brand in the spotlight with those who matter most. Whether you’re a VC eager to initiate discussions, a business prepared to unveil groundbreaking innovations, or a community organizer with messages to deliver, this is your opportunity to:

  • Connect directly with thousands of the brightest minds in technology.
  • Create genuine connections with potential partners, investors, and collaborators.
  • Control your narrative and exhibit your expertise on your own terms.
  • Generate excitement that reaches well beyond the event itself.

All approved Side Events are promoted to Disrupt attendees and our broader audience through the official Side Events calendar and various marketing channels.

What types of Side Events can you organize?

Anything that aligns with your vision is likely to gain approval. Previous Disrupt events have hosted everything from industry roundtables and VC office hours to in-depth workshops, intimate dinners, and casual networking happy hours.

You have the freedom to design the format — all we ask is that you bring the enthusiasm and ensure it’s open to not only Disrupt attendees but also the general public. We suggest holding events in the evenings during Disrupt from October 13-15, as there’s less competition and increased post-conference excitement for meaningful discussions with engaged audiences.

What is the process to apply for a Side Event?

You can view the application form here, but it’s beneficial to have a few components finalized before beginning the application:

  • Choose a venue in the Bay Area — this is focused on in-person gatherings.
  • Prepare a title, description, and location for the event.
  • Review the Side Events Host Guide and the Side Event Host T&Cs.

If you have further questions, we are ready to assist! Just reach out to our Side Events team via email, and we’ll respond to help.

We prioritize events that deliver substantial value to founders, investors, and the startup ecosystem, but ultimately, you know your community and target audience best! There is no cost to apply and participate, so we want to hear your innovative ideas.

Submit your application by September 4 to join Disrupt

Apply today and share your vision, objectives, and logistical requirements in your application, and we will take care of the rest to provide your team with the support and visibility needed to capitalize on the community and opportunities that Disrupt offers in San Francisco and the Bay Area.

When you make purchases through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. This does not impact our editorial independence.

Reasons the Newest Wearables Seek to Remain Invisible

Reasons the Newest Wearables Seek to Remain Invisible

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Whoop has been producing screen-free wearables since its debut in 2015, yet its shifting persona mirrors transformations in the wider market. Currently, a Whoop band is available to anyone prepared to invest in its $199 yearly subscription. It’s intended to “assist you in enhancing your sleep, training, and overall well-being—beginning on day one,” as stated by Whoop itself. This represents a notable shift from its 2015 image as a “performance enhancement system solely aimed at elite athletes and teams.”

Although Whoop’s notion of “training readiness” has remained stable, significant alterations have taken place. While one might suggest that entities like Google’s Fitbit are closing in on Whoop, this isn’t completely true. Whoop has adopted the “low-distraction” lifestyle marketing angle along with other prominent tech firms.

Three elements can be linked to AI to some degree.

AI acts as both a revenue generator and a reason for many individuals to seek low-distraction technology. Though Whoop’s competitors assert usability without subscriptions, several heavily depend on AI as an upsell.

For instance, Google’s Fitbit Air provides basic statistics without a subscription, but detailed insights require a subscription to Google Health Premium at $10 per month.

The potential of AI in health monitoring is still evolving, but it is anticipated to progress considerably as AI develops, according to Peter Richardson from Counterpoint Research.

I find Google’s Fitbit chatbot annoying and at times patronizing, favoring the experience without a subscription. My profession requires knowledge of VO2 Max, heart-rate variability trends, and more—facts that are not widely known.

AI could remedy the persistent problem of data overload in wearables, offering superior representation on smartphones compared to watch displays, underscoring the benefit of no screen.

AI’s most significant impact is on the integration of technology into everyday life. Several friends indicate that work evaluations are encouraging increased AI usage in their tasks. You might have encountered something similar.

Elizabeth Marsh, a researcher from the University of Nottingham, points out that digital tools frequently result in technostress, information overload, continual interruptions, and indistinct work-home boundaries.

Google Maps Currently Displays ‘Lake America’ in Place of Lake Ontario

Google Maps Currently Displays ‘Lake America’ in Place of Lake Ontario

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Lake Ontario is now referred to as “Lake America” on Google Maps in the United States. Late Saturday, Google changed the designation of this eastern Great Lake, following President Donald Trump’s recent order for a change in official documentation.

The executive action issued by Trump on Thursday arose from a trade dispute regarding tariffs with Canada, whose capital province is also named Ontario. In a comparable incident in January 2025, Trump instructed that the Gulf of Mexico be renamed the Gulf of America amidst a disagreement with a southern trade ally.

Firms such as Google, Apple, and Microsoft modified their databases to show Gulf of America once the US Department of the Interior updated its information, reflecting the trend seen after Trump’s latest directive. Therefore, when official data—which informs navigation and formal documents—recognized Lake America, Google’s mapping services adopted the new title.

Other platforms like Apple Maps and Bing Maps have yet to implement this change but are anticipated to follow. Even the Geographic Names Information System database’s map, which dictates such updates, still identified Lake Ontario on Sunday morning but indicated that changes are on the horizon.

Although entities like Google are not legally mandated to utilize official titles, they typically conform to resources such as GNIS. The names displayed on maps are contingent on the user’s geographical location.

In a statement, Google stated, “Users in the US will observe ‘Lake America,’ Canadians will see ‘Lake Ontario,’ and outside these nations, both names will be visible.” They also remarked, “These updates are consistent with our policy on region-specific designations for water bodies and are in the process of being implemented.”

Trump’s effort to modify maps has ignited significant dialogue among open-source mapping communities like OpenStreetMap, which supports businesses such as Uber and Lyft. OpenStreetMap recognizes both US and global designations, enabling organizations to select which name to display.

Conversely, MapQuest has announced it will not follow the changes, declaring on social media, “we’re not changing it,” in response to Trump’s directive.

Premier Mesh Wi-Fi Systems of 2026: In-Depth Testing Outcomes

Premier Mesh Wi-Fi Systems of 2026: In-Depth Testing Outcomes

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These tall routers are not as substantial as the pricier Orbi 970 Series but feature a comparable design and are fairly sizable. The primary router is equipped with four 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports, while each satellite contains two 2.5 Gbps ports. There is no USB port present. The setup process is straightforward with the Orbi app on your mobile device.

This is a tri-band configuration with a single SSID for the 2.4-GHz, 5-GHz, and 6-GHz bands, enabling multi-link operation (MLO), a feature of Wi-Fi 7 that permits devices to connect across multiple bands at the same time. However, MLO might create difficulties for older devices due to Wi-Fi 7’s more stringent security standards (WPA2 or newer). Legacy devices like an iPhone 5 will not connect unless utilizing a guest or IoT network.

Wi-Fi 7 additionally allows for broader channels (up to 320 MHz from 160 MHz) and other improvements. Anticipate consistently rapid Wi-Fi and superb coverage (up to 8,000 sq ft for a three-pack). It’s quick and dependable, though slightly slower than competitors in tests; however, this distinction is unlikely to be perceptible unless frequently transferring substantial files.

The Orbi 770 provides sufficient bandwidth for streaming and gaming among multiple users. Wi-Fi 7 devices linked to the main router may attain stable, low-latency, multi-gigabit speeds, although occasional lag might be experienced with satellites. Employing Ethernet cables for wired backhaul can resolve this problem.

The Orbi app is intuitive, enabling monitoring of connected clients and internet speed, with extra settings accessible. A 30-day trial of Netgear’s Armor security software (powered by Bitdefender) and Smart Parental Controls is included, priced at $40 for the first year (then $100) and $8 monthly, respectively, after the trial period. Neither subscription is essential.

For users without a large residence or multi-gig internet (over 2.5 Gbps), this mesh system might be indistinguishable from more expensive options like the TP-Link Deco BE85 ($1,200), Eero Max 7 ($1,700), and Netgear Orbi 970 Series ($2,000). In a contemporary home, I seldom noticed an improvement in performance of the 970 compared to the 770, and a two-pack typically suffices for most users. If your internet connection exceeds 2.5 Gbps, consider the Netgear Orbi 870 (3-Pack) priced at $1,300. Watch for regular discounts on all of these systems.

The Asus ZenWiFi BT10 impressed in evaluations, providing robust coverage and throughput. A tri-band system (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz) with MLO, it reliably connects the primary router and mesh node. Tested in a modern 1,600-sq-ft residence, it also performed admirably in a challenging old Victorian house with thick walls. Each unit includes two 10-Gbps Ethernet ports, one Gigabit port, and a USB 3.0 port.

Evaluation of Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro: Phone Call Champion

Evaluation of Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro: Phone Call Champion

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The noise-canceling capability is outstanding, featuring standard noise cancellation, transparency, adaptive, and off modes. Users have the ability to modify ANC intensity from one to five using the case or the Soundcore application. Only the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) and Sony WF-1000XM6 outperform in noise cancellation.

Straight from the box, the Soundcore Signature sound profile may not seem exceptional when compared to its call performance and ANC. It leans towards a bass-heavy sound, easily noticed even by an untrained listener, particularly when set against Apple or Bose earbuds. Five preset sound profiles are on offer (Soundcore Balance being a favorite), along with an eight-band custom equalizer and a personalized HearID mode that tunes the profile via an audio preference quiz.

With Soundcore Balance or custom HearID profiles, the Liberty 5 Pro delivers a remarkable audio experience. Although it lacks the detail found in the AirPods Pro 3 or QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, it remains enjoyable for the majority of users, particularly considering its more approachable price.

The Liberty 5 Pro has quickly become a favored pair of earbuds, even though I typically depend on AirPods Pro 3 for their convenience. Currently utilizing them while composing this review, the Liberty 5 Pro ensures comfort, quality sound, outstanding ANC, compatibility with both iPhone and Android, and a secure fit for any activity. An IP55 rating provides protection against dust and light rain. Notably, the improved call quality enhances the phone call experience despite surrounding noise.

There are some minor drawbacks: sound clarity isn’t flawless, and the earbuds are a bit large. Yet, these are trivial issues considering the pricing, nearly $100 below leading choices, suggesting that the Liberty 5 Pro may emerge as the best value earbuds by 2026.

Motorola Promo Code for September 2026

Motorola Promo Code for September 2026

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In case you haven’t heard of Motorola, it could mean your smartphone lineup is lacking some exceptional Android models from a leading tech name. Since the 1970s, Motorola has significantly influenced the sector by introducing the first-ever cell phone (quite remarkable!). From the DynaTAC of the 1980s, through the StarTAC in the nineties, and the Razr in the early 2000s, the brand’s devices have represented cutting-edge design and style. And who can overlook that iconic “Hello, Moto” tune? More than half a century later, Motorola (now under Lenovo) still delivers some of the finest smartphones, featuring excellent budget alternatives to elegant premium foldables. We even offer a dedicated resource for Motorola smartphones.

Every smartphone caters to different needs, which is why Motorola offers a diverse selection to satisfy your requirements. Even better, you can make considerable savings on a new Motorola device by applying a Motorola discount code or coupon code, featuring our recommendations for the best flip phone (Razr Ultra 2025 and 2026) and best budget phone (Moto G 2026). With escalating phone prices caused by a global memory shortage, these discounts can significantly influence your purchase choices. Here’s where to find a Motorola coupon code for your next smartphone.

Unlock Motorola Coupon Code Discounts on Razr, Edge, and Moto G Models This August

Whether you’re interested in the chic and compact Razr Ultra foldable or the affordable Moto G Power, make sure to check for special offers.

Orange Crush: TAG Heuer Launches a Lively Revamp of the Timeless Metal F1 Timepiece

Orange Crush: TAG Heuer Launches a Lively Revamp of the Timeless Metal F1 Timepiece

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A characteristic of the 80s F1 rubber straps that is absent in the new collection is the V-shaped grooves located at the bottom of the original straps. TAG crafted the 80s rubber straps to have a longer length so that they could comfortably fit over wetsuits, making them perfect for surfers and divers. The V-shaped grooves facilitated easy trimming to the preferred length, which was especially advantageous when the watch was worn on the wrist instead of in water. It is evident that TAG is not inclined to have its new rubber straps modified.

For many years, I have desired a classic original orange TAG F1 and finally succeeded in obtaining one earlier this year, albeit the later WA1213 model. Eddy Burgener, who designed the TAG F1 in the 80s, stated that vibrant, attention-grabbing colors were fundamental to the original collection, and the models were initially envisioned to be linked not with driving but with water sports.

In an interview with watch site Hodinkee last year, Burgener revealed that TAG intended to develop a new watch style for American surfers, divers, and other youthful beachgoers. The objective was to create a watch that was fun, colorful, and youthful, taking inspiration from the vivid surfboards and surfer clothing of the time.

To accomplish the vibrant colors, Burgener highlighted that the case had to be synthetic, which brought about the challenge of fabricating a diver’s watch with synthetic materials—a significant undertaking during that period. In the end, they selected a combination of fiberglass and plastic as the foundational material to enhance hardness and durability.

Present-day TAG solar F1s incorporate a type of bioplastic, an environmentally friendly castor-based polyamide referred to as TH-Polylight, substituting the previous “Arnite” thermoplastic. This material is shaped over a steel inner core, resulting in a sports watch that is more robust than most plastic-cased alternatives.

Top Webcams of 2026: A Genuine Review Following Trials of the Finest

Top Webcams of 2026: A Genuine Review Following Trials of the Finest

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The Insta360 Link 2C Pro attaches firmly to its aluminum mount, ensuring stability even with the weight of the USB-C cable. This construction also facilitates smooth panning adjustments. In contrast to webcams with plastic mounts, like the Logitech MX Brio, the magnetic capability of the Insta360 can stick to any metal surface, providing versatility in shooting angles.

Regarding image quality, the Insta360 2C Pro shines in low-light situations compared to other webcams within its price bracket. Out of the box, it handles harsh lighting remarkably well. In various challenging scenarios, such as overhead and backlighting, it exceeded competitors by preserving highlight detail more effectively than pricier options like the Obsbot Tiny 3.

The image processing of the Insta360 delivers a natural contrast that surpasses alternatives like the Logitech MX Brio, which tends to crush blacks. With sufficient lighting, its sharpness is notable, bolstered by its 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, which produces a smooth bokeh effect reminiscent of a DSLR. Other webcams do not achieve this depth.

However, it is not without weaknesses. Occasionally, it applies excessive processing and smoothing, particularly on facial features. Additionally, straight out of the box, the colors seem a bit cool, but the software allows for straightforward tweaks. Priced at $200, the Insta360 2C Pro provides a better value compared to the Logitech MX Brio, despite Logitech’s well-established brand reputation.

At $150, the standard Insta360 Link 2C serves as a suitable alternative. It features a somewhat smaller sensor and aperture, which impacts low-light performance and increases noise in high-contrast areas. Still, it represents solid value for the cost.

The Link 2C does not include the dual-microphone system found in the 2C Pro, resulting in inferior voice quality. Nonetheless, at this price point, the Link 2C remains a leading choice, surpassing models like the Razer Kiyo V2 and Logitech Brio 4K.

For individuals looking for budget webcams, caution is recommended. If utilizing a laptop with a decent built-in camera, it’s wiser to invest in a higher-quality model or improve lighting, such as with the $70 Logitech Litra Glow, which significantly enhances video call quality.

However, for those using external monitors who require a budget option, the Anker PowerConf C200, priced at $66, is commendable. It has limitations such as a non-swiveling mount and weaker monitor grip, but its 5-megapixel camera performs satisfactorily in good lighting.

Finally, the $60 Logitech Brio 300 is a tentative suggestion. Its drawbacks include a less appealing mount and basic microphone. However, it provides better sound than many built-in laptop microphones. The fixed 70-degree field of view restricts framing compared to other webcams.

Ray-Ban Promo Codes: Receive 50% Discount in August 2026

Ray-Ban Promo Codes: Receive 50% Discount in August 2026

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I still recall my initial pair of Ray-Bans: the Original Wayfarer Classics featuring shiny black frames and green lenses. Back in middle school, when Aviators were all the rage, I convinced my mom to buy me a pair with gold metal frames and orange flash polarized lenses. They were a bold pick for a 13-year-old girl, yet I wore them everywhere. By my college years, I had saved enough for Round Metal sunglasses with rose gold frames and blue gradient lenses, the first pair I purchased with my own funds. Even a decade later, I still possess them. Though they’re scratched, I can’t part with them.

For many, Ray-Bans symbolize their first sunglasses investment or continue to be a go-to. These dependable classics last, aging gracefully and appealing to all ages, from children to adults, providing iconic styles and quality that are more affordable than numerous luxury eyewear brands.

Ray-Ban isn’t just relying on its past. The new Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses revolutionize smart eyewear, fusing cutting-edge technology with fashionable designs. At WIRED, we commend their fusion of enduring style and modern innovation. If you’re in the market for new sunglasses, Ray-Ban comes highly recommended. To assist you in saving, I’ve compiled the best Ray-Ban coupons and promotions available.

Claim a Ray-Ban Coupon Code for 40% Off Meta Glasses. For a limited period, Ray-Ban is providing 40% off prescription lenses, including AI glasses. The Ray-Ban Meta glasses feature photo and video functions, music, calls, translations, and AI support—all while preserving their classic look. They come with an upgraded camera, improved battery life, and recognizable frames, making them the most user-friendly smart glasses we’ve evaluated. However, their cost, dependency on Meta’s AI, and privacy issues may dissuade some. Still, for everyday comfortable smart glasses, these are ideal.

Unlock the Best Ray-Ban Coupon for 10% Off All Glasses. Refer a friend to Ray-Ban for a 10% discount on your next online order after they register. This discount applies to Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, though standard exclusions may be applicable.

Save More With a Ray-Ban Promo Code on Your Prescription Sunglasses. For a limited time, Ray-Ban is providing up to 40% off prescription sunglasses, including classic styles like the Original Wayfarer Classic, Clubmaster Classic, and Round Metal, as well as special editions like the Bill 4th of July and A$AP Rocky collaboration designs.

Take Advantage of this Ray-Ban Student Discount for 20% Off. Students can verify their status through UNiDAYS to receive a 20% discount on Ray-Ban purchases. This generally applies throughout the site, though standard exclusions may apply. The offer may change; Ray-Ban has occasionally raised its student discount to 25%, so check back for better offers.

How to Obtain a Ray-Ban Online Coupon Code for Maximum Savings. The clearance section is a prime spot to save on Ray-Bans, often featuring discounts of up to 50% on select styles, from aviators and wayfarers to polarized lenses. You might not encounter discounts on Meta smart glasses here anytime soon, but classic frames are available at reduced prices. Inventory shifts rapidly, so act promptly if you find a pair you like. Standard return and warranty conditions apply.

Enjoy 50% Off Ray-Ban Sunglasses. Browsing the online clearance section at Ray-Ban is an excellent way to save with this well-loved yet occasionally costly brand. Discover glasses for 30 or 50% off and filter by popularity, recent release, and price, with styles such as the original wayfarer and Teru Bio-based available at half price.