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  • Google Gemini adds Lyria 3, an AI model that can create music with words and photos

    Google Gemini adds Lyria 3, an AI model that can create music with words and photos

    Google is expanding the multimodal capabilities of Gemini, once again. Following the success of the viral Nano Banana image generator, the company is releasing Lyria 3, an AI model that can generate music. Google says you can get started with your words and describe what kind of music you want to generate, and the model will comply.

    Alternatively, you can feed it a picture or even a video, and Lyria 3 will generate a “high-fidelity track,” with custom lyrics in tow. “From funny jingles to lo-fi beats, you can create custom 30-second soundtracks for any moment,” says the company. Lyria 3 is already rolling out to the desktop version of Gemini, which you can access in a web browser. It will also be expanding to the Gemini mobile app for users in the coming days across the globe.

    Introducing Lyria 3, our new music generation model in Gemini that lets you turn any idea, photo, or video into a high-fidelity track with custom lyrics.

    From funny jingles to lo-fi beats, you can create custom 30-second soundtracks for any moment.

    See how it works. đŸ§”

    — Google Gemini (@GeminiApp) February 18, 2026

    What is Lyria 3 in Gemini?

    Lyria has been developed by Google’s DeepMind division, which is at the frontier of pushing AI for cutting-edge innovations and research, such as using Gemini 3 Deep Think for turning sketches and ideas in 3D printing files. DeepMind is also behind the SynthID tech that puts an invisible watermark on media generated by AI tools.

    With Lyria 3, Google is diving into a fun and controversial side of AI usage. The idea is pretty simple. You can pick any topic, idea, genre, or mood, and Gemini will create a 30-second sample for you. All you have to do is click on the tool picker in the Gemini chat box and select the new music option.

    2) Image or Video to Tracks:

    Upload a photo or video and watch Gemini analyze the content to compose a track with lyrics that fit the vibe.

    For example, you could prompt, “Use these photos to create a track about my dog Duncan on hikes in the woods.”

    — Google Gemini (@GeminiApp) February 18, 2026

    How does it work?

    Just like image generation, or making videos in using Google’s Veo engine, Lyria 3 will take your words, images, or videos, and create a fitting tune. If you are running out of creative ideas, there are plenty of templates where you can pick an existing track and modify it using prompts. It’s somewhat like tweaking Gemini Gems or remixing mini-apps created in the Nothing Playground ecosystem.

    Using Lyria 3 in Gemini is free, in case you are wondering. I can imagine a lot of people sharing their photos and videos to create a suitable background track for posting on social media. Google won’t be the first company to offer this convenience. Suno is the biggest name in the AI music generation segment, and has courted plenty of controversy for alleged copyright infringement.

  • Google reveals the Pixel 10a, a slightly better phone at the same $499

    Google reveals the Pixel 10a, a slightly better phone at the same $499

    After teasing its next budget-friendly phone earlier this month, Google today officially lifted the covers off the newest member of its Pixel 10 lineup. The all-new Pixel 10a arrives largely as expected, offering a modest refresh over the Pixel 9a with only a couple of subtle design refinements and incremental spec upgrades rather than a sweeping overhaul.

    For the most part, the Pixel 10a sticks closely to its predecessor, so let’s start with what’s new. The phone drops the plastic ring around the rear camera module, allowing it to sit even more flush with the back panel for a cleaner, more seamless look. Google has also slimmed down the bezel around the display, giving the device a slightly more premium appearance.

    The display itself remains a 6.3-inch pOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, but peak brightness has been increased from 2,700 nits to 3,000 nits. Durability also gets a boost with Gorilla Glass 7i replacing Gorilla Glass 3, and charging speeds see a minor bump to 30W wired and 10W wireless.

    Mostly the same under the hood

    Elsewhere, the hardware remains unchanged. The Pixel 10a continues to run on Google’s Tensor G4 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of storage. Battery capacity stays at 5,100mAh, while the camera setup is identical to last year’s model, consisting of 48MP primary, a 13MP ultrawide, and a 13MP front-facing sensors.

    The IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, fingerprint scanner, Wi-Fi 6E, and NFC support also carry over, though Google has included a new modem to support Satellite SOS. On the software front, the Pixel 10a will ship with Android 16 out of the box, with Google promising seven years of OS and security updates.

    With no major upgrades this year, Google has kept pricing unchanged. The Pixel 10a starts at $499 and is available in Obsidian, Porcelain, Iris, and Peony colorways. Pre-orders open today, with general availability beginning March 5.

  • Nothing Phone 4a leak hints at major upgrades and higher prices

    Nothing Phone 4a leak hints at major upgrades and higher prices

    Nothing is gearing up to unveil its latest budget-friendly phones, with CEO Carl Pei having recently teased a March 5 launch event. While the company hasn’t officially shared any details, leaks suggest the Nothing Phone 4a and Phone 4a Pro are on the way. The new models are expected to build on last year’s Phone 3a series with upgraded chipsets, improved durability, and faster wired charging. Now, a fresh leak has revealed key specifications and pricing for both models.

    The leaked information comes from tipster Billbil-kun, who shared details about Nothing’s upcoming Headphone (a) earlier this month. The leaker claims that the standard Nothing Phone 4a will bring several improvements over its predecessor, including a triple 50MP camera setup, covering focal lengths from 0.6x ultra-wide to 70x ultra-zoom. It will also feature a 32MP front-facing camera and retain Nothing’s iconic transparent design, but with more organic curves and a Glyph Bar consisting of 63 mini LEDs.

    The Phone 4a is also said to feature a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a larger battery, and support for 50W wired fast charging. The Phone 4a Pro will allegedly take things up a notch, offering up to 140x zoom, a 50MP Sony main camera with OIS, and an aluminum unibody chassis for better heat dissipation. It will also feature a Glyph Matrix display and a larger 6.83-inch AMOLED screen with a 144Hz refresh rate.

    The upgrade may come at a higher price

    As for pricing, both models are expected to cost more than their predecessors. The 8GB/128GB variant of the Phone 4a could start at €389 (~$460), while the 12GB/256GB model is tipped to cost €429 (~$510). The Pro model is said to be priced at €479 (~$565) for the 8GB/128GB variant, with the higher-end 12GB/256GB model reportedly coming in at €549 (~$593).

    The tipster adds that following the March 5 launch event, the Nothing Phone 4a could go on sale alongside the budget-friendly Headphone a on March 12, while the Phone 4a Pro may follow later on March 26.

  • Handyman Services for Seniors: Safe and Reliable Home Repairs

    Handyman Services for Seniors: Safe and Reliable Home Repairs

    Seniors often face the challenge of maintaining their homes as their ability to handle complex tasks diminishes with age. A study from the National Association of Home Builders indicates that 80% of older adults prefer to stay in their current residence rather than relocate. Handyman services tailored for senior homeowners have emerged as a critical solution, allowing them to live comfortably and safely in their homes for longer periods.

    Specialized handyman services provide not only routine maintenance and repair but also the peace of mind that comes with trustworthiness and understanding the unique needs of the elderly. In this article, we explore the nuances of handyman services for seniors, highlighting safety, reliability, and considerations that foster a positive relationship and environment for aging individuals.

    Navigating Handyman Services for Senior Homeowners

     

    Identifying the right handyman service for seniors requires understanding the specific needs that come with aging. Senior homeowners may need assistance with tasks ranging from simple repairs to more significant home modifications that foster accessibility and mobility. Services might include installing grab bars, repairing leaky faucets, or updating lighting fixtures for better visibility.

    To support seniors effectively, handymen must be sensitive to the physical and cognitive changes their clients might experience. Providers specializing in handyman services for seniors often receive training in identifying trip hazards or suggesting home improvements that enhance safety and convenience.

    For seniors seeking a trustworthy handyman, it is essential to verify credentials, seek recommendations from friends or community members, and consult reviews. An experienced provider with a solid track record in handling senior-specific repairs can be critical in ensuring safety and satisfaction.

    Ensuring Safety and Reliability in Home Repairs for the Elderly

    When it comes to home repairs for the elderly, safety is the number one priority. Reliable service providers conduct thorough background checks on their staff to ensure that only trustworthy individuals enter seniors’ homes. Moreover, professionals skilled in senior services typically carry insurance to protect their clients in case of accidental damage or injury during repair work.

    Reliability extends beyond mere presence; the quality of work must also be consistent and meet high standards to keep the home environment safe for its residents. Handymen accustomed to working with older adults understand the importance of using non-slip materials, securing loose wires, and ensuring that all installations are sturdy and user-friendly.

    To further ensure safety and reliability, seniors and their families should set clear expectations about the scope of work and turnaround time. Detailed written estimates and documented guarantees of work performed provide a clear accountability framework, reducing the risk of misunderstandings and shoddy workmanship.

    Special Considerations for Handyman Services Catering to Seniors

    Handyman services catering to seniors should consider not only the immediate task at hand but also the long-term well-being of their clients. For example, providers may need to be attentive to the senior’s schedule, allowing for ample rest and avoiding disruption during typical times of day when the client may have healthcare visits or routines.

    Communication is also a pivotal element in delivering an effective service to seniors. Handymen should use clear, jargon-free language and be patient in explaining the necessary steps and answering questions. Providers might also serve as a liaison with family members, keeping them informed about the work being done and any potential concerns that arise.

    Moreover, the best providers offer adaptable services that can evolve with the senior’s changing needs. Whether it’s adjusting the height of countertops or installing sophisticated medical alert systems, the ability to customize solutions is invaluable for an aging population’s diverse requirements.

    Building Trust with Senior Clients in the Handyman Business

     

    Building trust with senior clients goes beyond delivering quality repairs; it encompasses fostering rapport, ensuring clear communication, and showing consistent respect. Handyman service providers successful in this niche often take the time to understand their clients’ histories, preferences, and concerns, creating a comfortable and reassuring service experience.

    Trust is also built through transparency in pricing and operations. Honest discussions about costs, timeframes, and the necessity of certain repairs help prevent any feelings of exploitation—a concern that can be particularly sensitive for seniors on fixed incomes.

    Adding a layer of personalized service, like following up after the job is completed or checking in periodically, can significantly bolster the client-provider relationship. For seniors, having a familiar and reliable person to call for home repairs can make an enormous difference in their independence and quality of life.

    Altogether, handyman services for seniors are an indispensable component of allowing the elderly to maintain independence and live safely at home. With a focus on safety, reliability, clear communication, and personalized care, handymen can provide invaluable assistance to an aging population, improving their comfort and confidence in their living spaces. Choosing the right service provider ensures not only the upkeep of the home but also peace of mind for seniors and their families alike.

  • You can run PC games like Cyberpunk 2077 on Android now, and it’s not streaming

    You can run PC games like Cyberpunk 2077 on Android now, and it’s not streaming

    Cyberpunk 2077 on Android just crossed a line that used to belong to tech demos and wishful thinking. In a recent ETA PRIME video, the game runs on a phone without cloud streaming and without a nearby PC doing the heavy lifting.

    The setup relies on PC emulation layers, including GameHub and WinLater, to translate x86 games so they can run on ARM phone hardware. It’s starting to look like a repeatable recipe instead of a one-off stunt.

    ETA PRIME used a Red Magic 11 Pro, which they call the most powerful Android phone it has tested so far. The phone pairs a Snapdragon Elite 2 chip (labeled Gen 5 in the video) with 16GB of RAM, plus active cooling like a built-in fan and liquid cooling to stay stable under load.

    Playable settings, real numbers

    At 720p on low settings with FSR 2.1 set to balanced, Cyberpunk 2077 on Android hovered just under 30 FPS. That baseline matters because it shows the game can hold together before any extra smoothing is applied.

    Flip on FSR frame generation and the result changes fast. ETA PRIME saw frame rates climb into the mid-to-high 40s, turning movement and combat into something that reads closer to handheld PC territory than a phone experiment.

    There’s a cost though. The video notes ghosting and occasional hiccups, the kind of artifacts you can spot when frame generation and emulation stack up.

    A Steam Deck level reality check

    ETA PRIME also tried a Steam Deck preset, a higher settings profile meant to mirror the handheld’s typical targets. Even there, the Red Magic 11 Pro averaged around 30 FPS, then climbed back into the 40s once frame generation was enabled.

    That’s impressive, but it’s also specific. This result depends on a top-end phone, strong cooling, and careful settings, and weaker devices can throttle hard.

    What to watch next

    The next wins won’t be flashy. Watch for steadier frame pacing, fewer artifacts, and more games that launch cleanly without babysitting.

    For now, the practical takeaway is simple. Cyberpunk 2077 on Android is playable in the right conditions, and if you want the smooth version ETA PRIME shows, you’ll need high-end specs and serious cooling.

  • Netflix storms into the MMA arena with Rousey vs Carano showdown

    Netflix storms into the MMA arena with Rousey vs Carano showdown

    Netflix is furthering its live sports push, this time by stepping into the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). The streaming giant has announced its first live MMA event, headlined by a long-speculated showdown between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano.

    The event is being promoted in partnership with Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), the combat sports outfit that has worked with Netflix on previous live boxing events. With this announcement, Netflix is adding MMA to its growing live portfolio, and it is doing so with two of the most recognizable names in women’s combat sports.

    Rousey, a former UFC champion who helped push women’s MMA into the mainstream, has not fought professionally in years. Carano, widely regarded as one of the early faces of women’s MMA, last competed even earlier but remains a high-profile figure in the sport. A potential clash between the two has been floated for more than a decade, making it a headline-ready choice for Netflix’s MMA debut.

    When and where to watch

    The bout is scheduled to take place on May 16 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles and will stream live globally for Netflix subscribers at no additional cost. The fight will follow standard professional MMA rules and will be “contested over five 5-minute rounds using 4-ounce gloves.”

    For Netflix, this move reflects a broader shift toward high-profile live events that can draw global audiences in real time. With boxing already in the mix, MMA now becomes the next frontier in the company’s evolving sports strategy. If successful, the event could open the door for more regular MMA programming on the platform, further expanding Netflix’s presence in live sports.

  • The next Galaxy S26 camera may get Samsung’s easiest AI editing yet

    The next Galaxy S26 camera may get Samsung’s easiest AI editing yet

    Samsung is setting expectations for the Galaxy S26 camera before it ever hits shelves. In a recent post, it described a camera app workflow that’s built to be simple, with AI edits you can request in plain language instead of toggling through layers of settings.

    The promise is speed. Samsung wants you to shoot, make fixes, and share from one place, so your phone feels like a camera and an editor at the same time.

    Samsung says the reveal happens at Galaxy Unpacked in February 2026. The livestream is scheduled for Feb. 25 at 10 a.m. PT, and the company is already promoting reservations that include a $30 credit and additional preorder savings.

    One interface, fewer steps

    Samsung’s framing is that the camera app shouldn’t stop at capture. It says the next setup keeps the most common edits close to the shutter, then carries you through to sharing without bouncing into other apps.

    On the AI side, Samsung points to a few headline tricks. It mentions turning a scene from day to night, restoring missing parts of an object, and merging multiple images into a single result, all designed to help you finish something in minutes.

    Why this matters for creators

    For anyone who posts often, the Galaxy S26 camera pitch is appealing because it treats editing as part of taking the photo. Casual creators don’t want a class on color curves. They want a shareable shot fast.

    But the details that decide whether this is useful are still missing. Samsung hasn’t said which S26 models get the full set of tools, whether the AI runs on-device or relies on the cloud, or what guardrails it uses when an edit changes the content of an image.

    What to watch at Unpacked

    On Feb. 25, listen for what actually works from typed prompts on day one, and whether these tools apply to photos, video, or both. Also watch for how much control you keep, including ways to undo, dial back, or fine-tune results.

    Then there’s the fine print. Samsung hasn’t talked about region limits, account requirements, or subscription gates, and those can reshape the whole value proposition quickly. If the demo looks strong, your next step is simple, wait for model-by-model support details before you commit.

  • You can now use NotebookLM as your faster path from notes to slides

    You can now use NotebookLM as your faster path from notes to slides

    NotebookLM is leaning harder into presentations, and the latest slide deck update targets the parts that usually slow you down. You can now revise slides with a prompt, and you can hand the finished deck off as a PowerPoint-ready PPTX file.

    That combination turns the Google studying tool from a quick generator into something closer to a drafting workspace. Build the structure from your notes, then refine it without rebuilding slides by hand. When you need to share or present, you don’t have to re-create everything in another app.

    Because you wouldn’t let it slide
 these are rolling out today for our most requested feature:

    Prompt-Based Revisions: Tweak, tailor, and tune your slides just by prompting the revisions you want

    PPTX Support: You can now export your Slide Decks (Google Slides coming next!) pic.twitter.com/Uma36PZ9OF

    — NotebookLM (@NotebookLM) February 17, 2026

    Slide edits without rebuilding

    The best part is how changes work. Instead of regenerating the whole deck when one slide feels wrong, you can pick a slide and describe the fix. Tighten the language, reframe the takeaway, reorganize the content, then move on.

    That matters because feedback rarely arrives once. You’ll get a second round, then a third, then the last-minute “can we also add” request. A slide-by-slide edit loop keeps those tweaks from turning into an all-night formatting job.

    There’s one tradeoff to watch. The more you revise, the more you’ll notice whether layouts stay consistent across titles, spacing, and visuals. If the structure drifts, you’ll spend time cleaning up what the prompt changed.

    PPTX export makes it shareable

    PPTX export is the practical unlock. You can save a NotebookLM deck as a PowerPoint file, which fits most workplace workflows by default. It’s the fastest way to get your draft into an existing template, send it to a teammate who lives in Office, or deliver something that doesn’t require a new tool to open.

    It also lowers the friction of trying NotebookLM for early versions. Do the fast thinking and sequencing in NotebookLM, then move the deck into PowerPoint for speaker notes, branding rules, and final cleanup.

    Google has also teased a Google Slides export option. Timing and rollout details aren’t clearly pinned down here, so treat that as a next step rather than a guaranteed feature today.

    What to watch next

    If you make decks regularly, test this on a real assignment, not a throwaway. Draft inside NotebookLM, run a few revision rounds, then open the PPTX and see what stays editable once you start tweaking.

    For now, use NotebookLM for the outline and first build, then shift to PowerPoint when you’re ready to tighten and deliver. If Slides export lands soon, it could make the handoff even smoother for Slides-first teams.

  • T20 WC: South Africa beat UAE by 6 wickets, Super 8 spot already secured

    T20 WC: South Africa beat UAE by 6 wickets, Super 8 spot already secured


    South African cricket players celebrating after winning against UAE in T20 World Cup.

    New Delhi: South Africa, riding on Ryan Rickelton and Dewald Brevis’ fiery knocks, beat UAE by six wickets in a low-scoring Group D match here on Wednesday, February 18.

    South Africa cricket players celebrating after winning against UAE in T20 World Cup match.
    South Africa players celebrate their six-wicket win over UAE in the T20 World Cup, securing their Super 8 spot.

    Chasing UAE‘s 122 for 6, built largely on young top-order batter Alishan Sharafu’s gritty 45, the Proteas overhauled the target in 13.2 overs.

    South Africa cricketer in action during T20 World Cup match.
    South Africa’s batter hits a powerful shot during the T20 World Cup game against UAE, securing their Super 8 spot with a six-wicket victory.

    Rickelton smashed a 16-ball 30 while Brewis scored 36 off 25 balls as South Africa won with 40 balls to spare.

    The Proteas and New Zealand have already qualified for the Super 8s from the group.

    South Africa's bowler celebrates after dismissing the UAE batsman during the T20 World Cup match.
    South Africa secured a six-wicket victory over UAE, confirming their spot in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup.

    Brief Scores:

    UAE: 122 for 6 in 20 overs (Alishan Sharafu 45; Anrich Nortje 2/28, Corbin Bosch 3/12).

    South Africa: 123 for 4 in 12.3 overs (Aiden Markram 28, Ryan Rickelton 30, Dewald Brevis 36).


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  • Your Xbox Game Pass library is getting a serious upgrade with The Witcher 3, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, and more

    Your Xbox Game Pass library is getting a serious upgrade with The Witcher 3, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, and more

    Microsoft has unveiled the second wave of titles hitting your Xbox Game Pass library this month, and there are some absolute bangers in the mix that you won’t want to miss. The latest lineup, confirmed via Xbox Wire, is one of the most exciting drops of the year so far, and includes legendary RPGs, fresh day-one releases, indie picks, and even a big sports title.

    Leading the charge is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, arriving February 19 for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Game Pass Premium subscribers on console and cloud. This critically acclaimed open-world RPG from CD PROJEKT RED includes all of its expansions and hundreds of hours of monster-slaying quests, deep storytelling, and detailed environments.

    The lineup also includes another massive RPG title, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, which joins the Game Pass library on March 3. The sequel to the 2018 medieval open-world classic puts players back in the gritty world of 15th-century Bohemia, continuing the saga with expanded systems and epic storytelling.

    The second February wave is packed with more than just RPGs. From this week you can also dive into Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora and the high-speed stylized shooter-racer Aerial_Knight’s DropShot, both available to Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass members. Action-RPG fans on Game Pass Premium can play Avowed right away as well.

    More additions and departures to note

    On February 19, Death Howl joins multiple Game Pass tiers, while sports fans can jump into EA Sports College Football 26 on Ultimate. The lineup also includes TCG Card Shop Simulator in Game Preview, day one PC release Dice A Million, and action RPG Towerborne. On March 3, Final Fantasy III lands alongside Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, adding another classic for RPG fans to dive into.

    A few titles are also on their way out, including Monster Train, Expeditions: A MudRunner Game, Injustice 2, and Middle-earth: Shadow of War. If any of these are sitting in your backlog, now is the time to wrap them up before they leave the service.