Humanoid robotics startup Apptronik raised $520 million in new funding, valuing the company at approximately $5 billion. The round included investment from Google and will support expansion of its Apollo humanoid robots, which are currently being tested in factories and warehouses with partners including Mercedes-Benz and GXO Logistics. CEO Jeff Cardenas said the capital will help expand operations in Austin, open a new California office, and ramp up production capacity.

The Breakdown:

• Major funding round: $520M raised at $5B valuation
• Industrial testing: Apollo robots deployed in manufacturing and logistics
• Expansion plans: Scaling production and geographic footprint

The Angle: Humanoid robots are moving from sci-fi demo to factory floor reality. With deep-pocketed backing and industrial partners, Apptronik is betting that labor automation's next frontier walks on two legs.

Rivian Unveils $45,000 R2 Electric SUV

Rivian has introduced its new R2 electric SUV, priced starting at $45,000. The model is aimed at expanding the EV maker's market reach with a more affordable offering.

Estonia Warns of Russian Military Buildup

Estonian officials say Russia is preparing a significant military buildup that could alter the balance of power in Europe. The warning comes amid heightened tensions along NATO's eastern flank.

Ancient Mummy Portrait Fetches $889,000 at Auction

A striking 2,000-year-old mummy portrait sold for $889,000 at auction, drawing strong interest from collectors. The remarkably preserved artwork offers a rare glimpse into ancient Roman-era Egypt.

Sarah Schleper is set to compete in her seventh Winter Olympics at the 2026 Games, making history alongside her 18-year-old son, Lasse Gaxiola, who will represent Mexico in his first Olympic appearance. The mother-son duo's shared journey has captured global attention.

Elsewhere, French influencer Cyril Schreiner admitted he staged the kidnapping of his pug as part of an attempt to create viral "entertainment." The confession sparked backlash online, with critics condemning the stunt as misleading and irresponsible.

"Metabolic damage" is really metabolic adaptation—your body conserving energy when calories stay low for too long. Symptoms include low energy, stalled fat loss, poor recovery, and hormonal disruptions. The good news: it's reversible.

Increase calories gradually through a reverse diet, prioritize strength training, increase protein, and manage stress. Improve sleep and reduce excessive cardio. As metabolism normalizes, energy increases, hunger stabilizes, and fat loss becomes possible again. Healing your metabolism is about rebuilding—not restricting.

Transitioning careers after 40 isn't a setback—it's an advantage. You bring decades of experience, maturity, and pattern recognition that younger professionals don't yet have. Research shows people who switch careers in midlife often experience renewed engagement and higher satisfaction.

Start by identifying transferable skills and aligning them with roles that excite you. Update your personal brand—LinkedIn, resume, portfolio—to reflect your new direction. Highlight experience as an asset, not a liability. With clarity, strategy, and confidence, a midlife career transition can be the most rewarding move of your life.

Your internet might be slow because of simple issues—not your provider. A few tweaks can make a huge difference.

Pro Tip: Restart your router weekly.

Everyone photographs Reine, but locals escape to Uttakleiv Beach on the northwest coast—white sand, turquoise water, and mountains framing both sides like a natural amphitheater. Arrive at sunset when light turns peaks pink and gold. For serious hikers, Ryten offers a 3-hour climb rewarding with views over Kvalvika Beach, accessible only by foot—one of Norway's most remote Arctic beaches.

Skip crowded Reinebringen and hike Mannen on Vestvågøy instead—90-minute ascent with 360-degree views and zero crowds. For pure magic, drive to Unstad Beach, Europe's northernmost surf spot where locals surf in drysuits year-round with Northern Lights overhead in winter. Nusfjord, a UNESCO-preserved fishing village, offers museum-quality authenticity without Reine's tourist crush. Pro move? Visit Henningsvær, called the "Venice of Lofoten," for boutique galleries and Trevarefabrikken café in a converted factory. The islands reward those who venture beyond the E10 highway's famous viewpoints.

Tomorrow: How Arctic Norwegians really live...