Wired News Digest
Wednesday, 28 January 2026
ICE Is Using Palantir’s AI Tools to Sort Through Tips
ICE has been using an AI-powered Palantir system to summarize tips sent to its tip line since last spring, according to a newly released Homeland Security document.
Here’s the Company That Sold DHS ICE’s Notorious Face Recognition App
Immigration agents have used Mobile Fortify to scan the faces of countless people in the US—including many citizens.
The Doomsday Clock Is Now 85 Seconds to Midnight. Here’s What That Means
Catastrophic risks are increasing, cooperation is declining, and swift action is needed from global leaders to correct course.
The Surface Laptop Is $400 Off
Take home a sweet discount on Microsoft’s first-party laptop.
Moltbot Is Taking Over Silicon Valley
People are letting the viral AI assistant formerly known as Clawdbot run their lives, regardless of the privacy concerns.
Google’s New Chrome ‘Auto Browse’ Agent Attempts to Roam the Web Without You
Google’s latest addition to its Chrome browser puts generative AI behind the wheel and you in the passenger seat.
Election Denier Tina Peters Was ‘Pardoned’ by Trump. She’s Still in Prison
Former election clerk Tina Peters is a hero to conspiracy theorists, and even received an empty “pardon” from the president. Colorado’s governor has held firm against commuting her sentence—so far.
AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D CPU Review: Gaming’s Best Chip
This year’s Ryzen is still my top choice for PC games.
The Best Ski Helmets, Editor Tested and Reviewed (2026)
This is an essential item for all skiers and snowboarders. WIRED has tested the best helmets for all abilities and budgets.
Sony Bravia 5 Review: An Excellent Mid-Tier TV for Cinephiles
This mid-tier Sony comes with its highest-end processor, and that’s a big deal for home theater nerds.
6 Best VPN Services (2026), Tested and Reviewed
Every VPN says it’s the best, but only some of them are telling the truth.
The Best Gifts for Sleep, as Tested by Our Team
Sleep is the one thing every giftee needs, and you can help them get it. These are our tried-and-tested picks for giftable sleep aids, from masks to melatonin.
No Phone, No Social Safety Net: Welcome to the ‘Offline Club’
Across Europe’s largest cities, people are gathering for semi-silent, offline hangouts, in search of an experience that isn’t mediated through their smartphones.
Google’s Smart Glasses Will Have the Best Software. But They’ll Have to Win on Style Too
When Google releases its smart glasses in the coming months, the strength of its AI-powered software will be its biggest leg up on its rivals. But will people want to be seen wearing them?
Apple Patches Old Versions of iOS to Keep iMessage and FaceTime Running
Apple is renewing certificates for iOS versions dating back to 2013 to keep the lights on a little longer.
A North Atlantic Right Whale Baby Boom Is On—but the Species Remains at Risk
Researchers have documented the births of nearly two dozen North Atlantic right whale calves this season. It’s an encouraging sign for a species whose population is estimated to be below 400.
We-Vibe Discount Codes and Deals: Up to 60% Off
Save on We-Vibe, including app-controlled bestsellers and popular gift sets designed for couples, connection, and shared pleasure.
Lovehoney Discount Codes and Deals: Up to 70% Off
Save on Lovehoney, including bestselling toys, lingerie, and popular gift sets for date nights, self-care, and couples’ play.
Paramount Plus Coupon Codes and Deals: 50% Off
Save on streaming with the latest Paramount+ promo codes and deals, including 50% off subscriptions, free trials, and more.
20% Squarespace Promo Codes | February 2026
Get 20% off your next website, 10% off with exclusive Squarespace discount code, 50% off plans, and more top coupons from WIRED.