Wired News Digest
Thursday, 5 February 2026
Loyalty Is Dead in Silicon Valley
Founders used to be wedded to their companies. Now, anyone can be lured away for the right price.
ICE and CBP’s Face-Recognition App Can’t Actually Verify Who People Are
ICE has used Mobile Fortify to identify immigrants and citizens alike over 100,000 times, by one estimate. It wasn’t built to work like that—and only got approved after DHS abandoned its own privacy rules.
9 Great Deals on WIRED-Approved Valentine’s Day Gifts (2026)
These swoon-worthy deals on WIRED-tested date-night boxes, sex toys, and other gadgets will make your Valentine’s Day extra sweet.
The 2026 Winter Olympics Will Have a Major Impact on the Region’s Snow
A recent report found that carbon emissions caused by the Milano Cortina Olympics could lead to the loss of 5.5 square kilometers of snowpack and millions of metric tons of glacial ice.
The Rise and Fall of the World’s Largest Gay Dating App
The new book The Wall Dancers explores the uneasy relationship between Chinese internet users and a government that is always watching.
The Latest Apple Watch Is $100 Off
Upgrade to a full day of battery life and new health features.
Motorola Moto Watch Review: Polar-Powered
Motorola partnered with Polar to make an Android smartwatch that delivers improved fitness stats.
These 10 Automatic Cat Feeders Were the Best We Tested (2026)
We tested some of the most popular automatic dry- and wet-food pet feeders to see which ones are worth the money.
What Is Thread? Matter’s Smart Home Network Protocol, Explained
Thread is a mesh networking protocol that connects low-power smart home gadgets, and it’s one of Matter’s underlying technologies.
The Best Flower Delivery Services of 2026, Tested and Reviewed
Skip the sad grocery store bouquet this Valentine’s Day. These online flower delivery services do the heavy lifting for you—just don’t forget the card.
How the Olympic Torchbearers Are Chosen
From world-class athletes to the stars of Heated Rivalry, torchbearers are selected for their inspiring stories. Here’s what to know about the people carrying the flame for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Brenna Huckaby Starter Pack: Paralympic Winter Games 2026
How this four-time Paralympic medalist controls her controllables under the spotlight.
How iPhones Made a Surprising Comeback in China
Huawei’s and Xiaomi’s flagship devices are packed with impressive features, but Apple is dominating the Chinese smartphone market again—for now.
Hollywood Is Losing Audiences to AI Fatigue
Entertainment about or made with artificial intelligence has been missing the mark with viewers over the past year.
I Didn’t Care for Dildos Until I Tried This One From Lelo
Even if you typically don’t like dildos, the Lelo Gigi 3 could be your ticket to sexual pleasure.
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.
Visible Promo Code: Save Over $400 in February 2026
Find great deals and promo codes for Visible at WIRED and save big, whether you’re a long-time customer or a newbie.
HBO Max Promo Code: 50% Off | February
Stream your favorite shows and save up to 50% today with HBO Max discount codes and subscription deals.
50% Off Home Depot Promo Codes | February 2026
Save up to 50% today with the latest Home Depot promo codes for appliances, power tools, and more this February.
Nike Promo Codes and Deals: 30% Off
Check out our deals for Nike this month, including 15% off select purchases.