Tech & AI News Roundup — October 13, 2026, 4:01 PM UTC

Quick links to what's actually happening in AI, tech, and IT right now — curated from real reporting, not rewritten, so you can go read the full story wherever it's genuinely worth your time.

Google finally releases Gemini 4 Argon

After months sitting on the sidelines of the frontier AI race, Google has finally launched its long-awaited Gemini 4 Argon model, claiming it can compete with the best the industry has to offer. Google says Argon delivers "frontier reasoning and improved performance across complex workflows," while cutting down on hedging, repetition, and the cliches that continue to plague AI chatbots. The compan — The Verge

Buying Apple’s wall-mounted HomeView? The mount costs extra

Wall mount sold separately, this version being the $59.95 “Power Mount USB‑C Wall Connector.” | Image: Apple The HomeView smart home display announced by Apple today comes in two models that both cost $299: one with a speaker base, and the other being a self explanatory "Wall Mounted" version. If you want the latter, however, you'll actually have to pay at least $59 more - the mounts required to a — The Verge

This Kenyan founder built a tool to help startups find funding faster

Launched in October 2025, Startup Map Hub helps founders find funding opportunities, check their eligibility, and prepare applications. — TechCabal

Africa Bitcoin Corporation’s boardroom battle leaves just two directors standing

Africa Bitcoin Corporation is left with two directors after four resign amid a shareholder dispute over board appointments, while regulatory findings continue to cloud the company’s leadership. — TechCabal

4 upgrades HomePod Mini 2 has over its 6-year-old predecessor

HomePod mini 2 is here, and there are four major upgrades that separate it from the first generation. — ZDNet

The 2026 Startup Battlefield Top 20: From organs to orbit and everything in between

Twenty founders just earned their shot at Disrupt glory. They're headed to the main stage at TechCrunch Disrupt to compete for the $100,000 prize and the coveted Disrupt Cup. — TechCrunch

Apple’s $299 HomeView smart hub is here: 8 highlights, including the wall model

As an Apple Home user, here’s what stands out about Apple’s new smart home hub – and what I want to test firsthand. — ZDNet

Spotify users on iOS 27 can now ask Siri to play music without having to say ‘on Spotify’

Siri can now learn users' preferred music app, allowing Spotify listeners to request songs, podcasts, and playlists without specifying which app to use. — TechCrunch