Google's Gemini AI will provide heightened interactivity, GM says

• "Eyes-off" driving coming to some models in the next few years
• No more Apple Carplay or Android Auto - replaced by Google Gemini AI
• GM claims its system is superior to competitors

General Motors says its future models will be a step ahead of Tesla and other supposedly self-driving cars, claiming that added onboard intelligence will addtrue "eyes-off" driving and "conversational AI,"cars that not only drive themselves but understand and adapt to their drivers.

In 2028, GM said, it plans to debut its first eyes-off driving capability on the Cadillac Escalade IQ, starting with highway driving. When the feature is active, turquoise lighting across the dashboard and exterior mirrors will indicate that its safe for the driver to relax even to read or message while the vehicle takes control.

Unlike systems that rely solely on cameras, GMs design incorporates lidar, radar, and cameras in a redundant setup known as sensor fusion, the company said. The combination builds a detailed perception layer, while real-world driving data and simulation testing ensure the system performs reliably even in rare or hazardous conditions.

GM said thenext-generation system builds on thefoundation of Super Cruise, GMs existing hands-free technology, which it said has logged more than 700 million miles without a crash attributed to the system since its 2017 launch. The automaker is also integrating Cruise, its autonomous-vehicle subsidiary, whose AI models are trained on five million driverless miles and backed by a robust simulation framework.

Conversational AI hits the road

Starting next year, GM vehicles will incorporate Googles Gemini AI, enabling natural, voice-driven interactions inside the cabin. Drivers will be able to compose messages, plan routes, or locate a charging stop near a favorite caf all through seamless conversation.

In the future, GM plans to introduce its own custom-built AI assistant, integrated with the cars intelligence and the drivers personal preferences. Linked through OnStar, the system will deliver tailored insights, from maintenance alerts and route optimization to preconditioning the vehicle before a morning commute.

With driver permission, the AI can even explain features, detect issues early, or suggest dinner spots based on prior trips bringing a personal touch to connected mobility.

But no more Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

GM has confirmed that its future vehicles willnotsupport Apple CarPlay (and similarly Android Auto) as smartphone-projection platforms.

Here are the details & implications:

What this means for you

How GMs eyes-off driving compares with other systems

Summary takeaway: GMs system differentiates by placing a strong emphasis on built-in redundancy (lidar + radar + cameras), clear driver-status cues (turquoise lights), and a phased introduction (highways first) leveraging its Super Cruise base. Many competitors are further along in certain domains (city/autonomous) but may rely less on sensor redundancy or have less defined eyes-off cues at scale.

• Eyes-off driving coming to Cadillac Escalade IQ in 2028
• Conversational AI powered by Google Gemini arrives next year
• No more Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

  • GM says it began phasing out CarPlay/Android Auto in its electric-vehicle (EV) lineup in 2023.

  • In October 2025, GM stated that it will remove support for CarPlay/Android Auto from future gas-powered vehicles as well effectively across its portfolio.

  • In the U.S., GM currently keeps CarPlay/Android Auto in existing gas models for the foreseeable future but signals that new models (especially starting around the new centralized computing platform rollout) will not include it.

  • GM says the reason: moving toward a deeply integrated infotainment system (based on Android/Google or GM-built), to improve safety, system stability, and control over data/experience.

  • If youre buying a future GM vehicle (especially EV or major new model around 2028-era), expectnoCarPlay/Android Auto support youll instead get GMs native infotainment system plus the new conversational AI and eyes-off driving features.

  • If you already own a GM vehicle with CarPlay/Android Auto, that feature remains supported for now (in gas models), but may not be extended to upgraded/new vehicles under GMs new architecture.

  • If CarPlay is a must-have for you (iPhone integration, familiar interface), this may affect your buying decision for future GM models.

Grab credits now, glide through December

• Through November 1, paid Circle 360 members can earn extra Target Circle credits with simple actions (like $10 in rewards for a 10-item wish list )
• Circle 360 now comes with no-markup same-day delivery, early access, freebies, and longer returnshandy for early holiday shopping
• Grab the easy no-spend wish list bonus, bundle two small deliveries youd do anyway, and watch prices to make sure delivery matches in-store

Target just sweetened its paid membership, Circle 360, with a limited-time rewards event that lets members earn up to $100 in Target Circle rewards by hitting simple milestones before November 1.

The rewards include the following:

• Complete two Starbucks at Target orders, earn $10 in rewards
• Create a holiday wish list and add 10 items, earn $10 in rewards
• Complete two Same-Day Delivery orders, earn $10 in rewards
• Spend $50 on Up & Up items, earn $15 in rewards
• Spend $50 on All in Motion items, earn $15 in rewards
• Spend $75 on Good & Gather items, earn $25 in rewards
• Spend $50 on Threshold items, earn $15 in rewards

If you planned on shopping in any of these categories between now and November 1^st , its a smart way to recoup a chunk of your $99 annual fee. Heck, the create a wish list task doesnt even require you to make a purchase to collect your $10.

Why is this newsworthy?

Its newsworthy for two reasons.

First, Circle 360s perks have quietly become more competitive in 2025. Members now get unlimited same-day delivery on $35+ without price markups. Getting in-store pricing delivered to your front door is a big deal in the grocery delivery game, especially when you start pricing comparing groceries, paper goods, and seasonal dcor with other retailers.

Second, Target is encouraging you to start shopping early and steering you towards their private-labels (Up & Up, Good & Gather, All in Motion). All in an attempt to engage shoppers a month before the Black Friday madness begins.

This shows that retailers want your early dollars locked in, and shoppers who stack loyalty bonuses now are more likely to keep buying from them through December.

What you actually get with Circle 360

Beyond the no-markup same-day delivery from Target, members also get monthly freebies, early access to select drops, and free two-day shipping on eligible items.

Youll also get an extended return windows (extra 30 days) on most purchases which is handy if youre gift-buying in October.

A few ways to maximize savingsthis week:

Treat the tasks like a shopping list. If youre already grabbing coffee during a Target run, plan two Starbucks at Target pickups to trigger the $10. Then schedule two modest Same-Day Delivery orders (household restock, pantry staples) to bank another $10. I wouldnt wait until October 31 as delivery slots will probably tighten.

Consider Target private-label spending. Up & Up for paper goods and cleaning, Good & Gather for pantry and grocery items, All in Motion for basics.

Compare delivered vs. in-store prices. Check that the price on your phone matches the price on the shelf. With Circle 360, delivery is supposed to use the same in-store prices, so if you see a higher price in the app, skip it or buy that item in person.

Dont ignore free Circle. If youre not ready to pay, the free Target Circle still auto-applies deals, includes a 5% birthday reward, and stacks with promos. I recommend using it as your baseline and upgrade only if delivery volume makes the math work.

The CPI report was delayed until today by the government shutdown

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• Inflation edged up 0.3% in September, driven largely by higher gasoline prices

• Annual inflation rate now stands at 3.0%, up slightly from Augusts 2.9%

• Shelter, recreation, and apparel costs also rose, while car insurance and used car prices declined

U.S. consumer prices continued to climb in September, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rising 0.3% on a seasonally adjusted basis, according to the delayed report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

The latest figures show inflation running at a 3.0% annual rate, signaling that while price pressures remain moderate, they continue to affect household budgets, particularly through energy and housing costs.

The sharpest price jump came at the gas pump. The gasoline index surged 4.1%, helping push the overall energy index up 1.5% for the month. Over the past year, however, gasoline prices are still down 0.5%, reflecting earlier declines in 2025. So far in October, gasoline prices have fallen significantly.

Electricity prices fell 0.5% in September, while natural gas slipped 1.2%.

On a yearly basis, the energy index is up 2.8%, driven mainly by higher electricity (+5.1%) and natural gas (+11.7%) costs.

Food inflation remains mild

Food prices rose 0.2% in September, following a 0.5% increase in August. Grocery prices (food at home) were up 0.3%, led by cereals, bakery products, and nonalcoholic beveragesall up 0.7%. Meat, poultry, fish, and eggs rose 0.3%, while dairy products dipped 0.5%. Restaurant prices (food away from home) increased just 0.1%.

Over the past year, the food index is up 3.1%, with grocery costs up 2.7% and dining out costs up 3.7%.

Excluding food and energy, the so-called core CPI rose 0.2% in September, easing from 0.3% in the prior two months. The core inflation rate now stands at 3.0% year-over-year.

Shelter costs one of the biggest components of the index rose 0.2%, marking the smallest increase in owners equivalent rent since early 2021. Prices also increased for airline fares (+2.7%), recreation (+0.4%), household furnishings (+0.4%), and apparel (+0.7%).

At the same time, consumers caught a break in a few areas: the cost of used cars and trucks declined 0.4%, motor vehicle insurance fell 0.4%, and communication services dropped 0.2%.

From overheating laminators to collapsing sauna benches, heres whats being recalled this week plus key safety warnings from the CPSC

3M Company Recalls Thousands of Scotch Laminators for Burn Hazard

Consumers with affected laminators should stop using them and seek a refund from 3M Company.

Key details:

• Product: Scotch Thermal Laminators, model TL909-50

• Units affected: About 13,440

• Hazard: Laminators can overheat, posing a burn risk.

• Action: Stop using immediately and contact 3M for a refund.

• Contact: 3M at 800-772-4337 or via Scotch Brand Recall Info

• Source: CPSC Recall Notice

Bealife 5-Drawer Dressers Recalled for Tip-Over Hazard

Owners should stop using unanchored units and seek a refund.

Key details:

• Product: White 5-Drawer Dressers, model AP23-W

• Units affected: About 410

• Hazard: Violates STURDY Act; can tip over and trap children.

• Action: Stop using unless anchored; contact Bealife for a refund.

• Contact: info@bealifehome.com or Bealife Recall Page

• Source: CPSC Recall Notice

Two Scepter Fuel Container Recalls for Fire and Poisoning Risks

Consumers should stop using recalled dual-chamber B62 containers and request refunds.

Key details:

1. Canada Prep Recall ~1,500 units

   • Hazard: Missing flame mitigation and child-resistant spouts.

   • Contact: info@canadaprepandship.com or Canada Prep Recall Page

2. Pro Recycle Recall ~840 units

   • Hazard: Similar safety failures; fire and poisoning risk.

   • Contact: 514-887-7309 or prorecycle@hotmail.ca

• Source: CPSC Notices

J & D Brush Recalls 357,000 Bio Ionic Curling Irons for Burn Risk

Consumers should stop using and request a free replacement.

Key details:

• Product: Bio Ionic 1-inch Long Barrel Curling Irons, model LXT-CL-1.0

• Hazard: Barrel can detach, causing burns.

• Incidents: 258 detachments, six minor burns.

• Action: Stop use; contact Bio Ionic for free replacement.

• Contact: 877-853-9627 or Bio Ionic Recall Page

• Source: CPSC Recall Notice

Olympia Tools Recalls Utility Wagons for Entrapment Risk

Stop using Pack-N-Stroll wagons immediately and contact company for refund.

Key details:

• Product: Pack-N-Stroll Folding Utility Wagons

• Units affected: About 530

• Hazard: Openings can trap a childs head; lacks restraints.

• Action: Stop use and request refund.

• Contact: info@olympiatools.com or Coho Outdoors Recall Page

• Source: CPSC Recall Notice

Sauna360 Recalls Halmstad & Kiruna Sauna Rooms for Fall Hazard

Stop using benches and contact company for free repair.

Key details:

• Product: Tyl Halmstad and Kiruna Hybrid sauna rooms

• Units affected: About 1,000

• Hazard: Benches can collapse, causing injuries.

• Reports: 7 bench failures, 1 injury.

• Contact: 888-780-4427 or Sauna360 Recall Info

• Source: CPSC Recall Notice

Cranach Hardware Recalls 55,000 Tip Restraint Kits for Tip-Over Risk

Free replacement offered; stop using recalled restraints.

Key details:

• Hazard: Plastic parts can break; 115 reports of failure.

• Contact: 888-798-9487 or Cranach Recall Page

• Source: CPSC Recall Notice

LEACHOI Bed Rails Recalled for Entrapment & Suffocation Hazard

Stop using recalled bed rails and request refund.

Key details:

• Units affected: About 7,800

• Hazard: Entrapment between rail and mattress.

• Contact: leachoidirect@163.com or LEACHOI Recall Info

• Source: CPSC Recall Notice

Lifepro Fitness Recalls 78,000 Sauna Blankets for Burn Injuries

Free replacement offered; stop using immediately.

Key details:

• Product: Bioremedy Infrared Sauna Blankets

• Hazard: Overheating can cause burns.

• Reports: 65 overheating, 32 injuries.

• Contact: recalls@lifeprofitness.com or Lifepro Recall Page

• Source: CPSC Recall Notice

CPSC Safety Warnings

Wish.com Hair Dryers Electrocution Hazard

Hair dryers lack immersion protection. Stop use, cut cords, and dispose.
Report incidents: SaferProducts.gov

Shein 10-Inch Hybrid Mattresses Fire Risk

Fail flammability standards. Stop use and dispose safely.
Report incidents: SaferProducts.gov

MOEYURO Youth ATVs Crash & Injury Risk

Do not meet safety standards. Stop use immediately.
Report incidents: SaferProducts.gov

Favoto Bike Helmets Head Injury Risk

Fail impact protection standards. Stop use and cut straps.
Report incidents: SaferProducts.gov

Honestcoolstore Magnetic Balls Ingestion Hazard

Magnets exceed strength limits. Dispose immediately.
Report incidents: SaferProducts.gov

Quick Safety Checklist

Stop using recalled or warned products immediately.
Check serial or model numbers where listed.
Contact manufacturer for refunds or repairs.
Dispose of unsafe products responsibly do not resell or donate.
Report any injury or defect at SaferProducts.gov.

The increase will average $56, starting in January

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• Social Security benefits to rise 2.8% in 2026, matching inflation trends

• Average retiree will see about $56 more per month beginning in January

• Adjustment affects nearly 75 million Americans receiving Social Security or SSI

The Social Security Administration has announced that monthly benefits will rise by 2.8% in 2026, marking a modest cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) aimed at helping retirees and other beneficiaries keep pace with inflation.

Starting in January, retirees will receive an average of about $56 more per month, according to the agency. The adjustment applies to both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), impacting roughly 75 million Americans who rely on these payments.

Keeping up with inflation barely

The COLA is designed to ensure that benefits reflect changes in consumer prices, helping protect the purchasing power of seniors, people with disabilities, and others who depend on the programs. Still, for many recipients struggling with rising costs of housing, food, and healthcare, this years increase may not be enough to fully offset inflation.

The annual cost-of-living adjustment is one way we are working to make sure benefits reflect todays economic realities, said Social Security Administration Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano. Social Security is a promise kept... and continues to provide a foundation of security.

Historical context and outlook

The 2.8% COLA aligns with economists forecasts, which had projected an increase between 2.7% and 2.8%. Over the past two decades, the average annual adjustment has been 2.6%, according to The Senior Citizens League, a nonpartisan advocacy group for older Americans.

This years increase slightly exceeds the 2.5% adjustment in 2025, continuing a pattern of moderate benefit growth as inflation gradually cools from its pandemic-era highs.

While the adjustment offers a welcome boost to millions of households, advocates caution that many seniors remain financially vulnerable, particularly as healthcare and housing costs continue to outpace overall inflation.