Amazon has acquired Bee, an AI wearables startup known for its Fitbit-like bracelet and Apple Watch app that record conversations to create reminders and to-do lists. The acquisition signals Amazon's interest in expanding into wearable AI devices, a departure from its voice-controlled home assistants like Echo speakers.

Bee's device, priced at $49.99 with a $19-per-month subscription, aims to provide personal, ambient intelligence. While other companies have struggled in this space, Bee's affordable price point makes it accessible to consumers.

The acquisition raises privacy concerns, as these devices record everything around them. Bee's current policies state that users can delete their data, and audio recordings are not saved or used for AI training. However, it's unclear if these policies will change under Amazon's ownership, given Amazon's past handling of user data from Ring security cameras.

Apple has recently notified over a dozen Iranians about government spyware targeting their iPhones. This information comes from security researchers and digital rights organizations.

Miaan Group and cybersecurity researcher Hamid Kashfi have spoken with Iranians who received these notifications within the last year. Miaan Group's report highlights three instances of government spyware attacks against Iranians, with alerts issued in April.

Amir Rashidi of Miaan Group suggests Iran is likely behind the attacks, though further investigation is needed. Kashfi assisted victims with preliminary forensics but couldn't confirm the specific spyware maker. Many victims were hesitant to continue the investigation due to fear and sensitivity.

Apple has been sending notifications about potential spyware attacks to users globally since 2021 and recommends that victims contact AccessNow for assistance. The company has identified such attacks in over 150 countries but does not disclose specific country names or the total number of affected users.

Apple has released iOS 26 beta 4 to developers, featuring tweaks to the Liquid Glass redesign and the re-introduction of AI-powered notification summaries for news.

The beta includes a new "Welcome" splash screen, introductory screens for features like Siri and its AI summaries, and a revamped Camera app.

Liquid Glass sees further refinement with updates in apps like the App Store, Photos, and Apple Music, while the Notification Center gains a dynamic tint during scrolling.

The update also includes a new dynamic wallpaper and new CarPlay wallpapers.

Alongside iOS 26 beta 4, Apple also released new versions of its other betas, including iPadOS 26 beta 4, macOS 26 beta 4, watchOS 26 beta 4, tvOS 26 beta 4, visionOS 26 beta 4, and Xcode 26 beta 4.

Etsy is facing a user boycott due to its decision to allow the sale of 'Alligator Alcatraz'-branded merchandise, which critics argue violates the platform's Discrimination and Hateful Content Policy. This policy prohibits discriminatory content related to immigration status.

The merchandise refers to a controversial ICE detention center in Florida, where detainees are reportedly held in harsh conditions. Boycotters argue that Etsy's allowance of such items contradicts its own guidelines against content that contains violent or degrading commentary against protected classes.

The boycott has gained traction on social media platforms like Threads and Reddit, with numerous users expressing their disapproval and threatening to close their shops or accounts. Other platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Shopify also host this merchandise, but Etsy has faced particular scrutiny due to its stated policies.

While Amazon defended its decision citing its policy on controversial products, Etsy has not responded to requests for comment. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges e-commerce platforms face in balancing free speech with the need to address potentially offensive or discriminatory content.

VSCO has globally launched its iOS camera app, Capture, after initial testing in select countries. The app offers a range of presets, real-time effects, and manual camera controls.

In addition, VSCO has acquired The Freelance Photographer, a platform offering workshops and guidance for emerging photography professionals. This acquisition aligns with VSCO's focus on supporting professional photographers, complementing its existing services like VSCO Hub and VSCO Sites.

The Freelance Photographer provides courses with prices starting at $208 per month.

RA Capital Planetary Health closed a $120 million fund and shared their investment strategy, emphasizing adaptability in a changing market.

Key criteria for investment:

• Time to Market: Prioritizing companies that can generate revenue quickly (within five years).
• Product Market Fit: Ensuring there's a demand for the product being built.
• Capital Efficiency: Focusing on companies that can efficiently utilize venture capital.

They invest in sectors ranging from geologic hydrogen to AI-enabled recycling, using market maps to understand adoption barriers and time-to-market averages.

RA Capital Planetary Health emphasizes navigating market cycles effectively, suggesting that understanding the current downturn can lead to significant success as markets improve.