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Tech Innovations and Security Lapses Dominate Headlines
NEW YORK, NY - February 14, 2026 - Several significant developments in technology and security have emerged, including a fashion tech company's expansion, a major data breach at an Indian pharmacy chain, and innovative new gadgets. These stories highlight the rapid pace of technological advancement and the ongoing challenges of cybersecurity.
Alta, a company inspired by the film "Clueless," is expanding its styling tools into websites, according to TechCrunch. The company, founded by Jenny Wang, allows users to create digital closets and virtually try on clothes using AI. Alta recently raised $11 million in a funding round led by Menlo Ventures, with participation from models Jasmine Tookes and Karlie Kloss, among others. Wang spoke with TechCrunch during New York Fashion Week about the company's expansion since the funding round.
In a separate development, a major security breach at DavaIndia Pharmacy, a large Indian pharmacy chain, exposed customer data and internal systems. TechCrunch reported that a security researcher, Eaton Zveare, discovered the vulnerability, which allowed outsiders to gain full administrative control of the platform. Zveare privately shared the details with Indian cybersecurity authorities, and the bug has since been fixed. The exposure occurred as Zota Healthcare, the parent company of DavaIndia Pharmacy, rapidly scales its retail business.
Meanwhile, Georgia Tech announced the finalists in its annual Guthman Musical Instrument Competition, as reported by The Verge. The competition invites inventors to submit new instrument designs for a chance to win $10,000 in prizes. Early standouts include a "henge made of fiddles" and a "chaotic evil triangle."
In the realm of consumer gadgets, The Verge also reviewed the GameSir Pocket Taco, a $35 controller that turns a phone into a Game Boy. The controller clamps onto the bottom of a phone and can also be used as a standalone wireless gamepad.
Finally, The Verge also reported on the rise of AI companions. Reporter Victoria Song went on four dates with AI companions at a pop-up dating café. One of the AI companions was named Phoebe Callas.
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