The funeral that never ends

Toss porch pirates overboard: Nationwide, thieves are nabbing expensive new iPhones just seconds after they’re dropped off. AT&T sends theirs via FedEx and usually doesn’t require a signature for deliveries, so they’re the biggest target. If you’re ordering an iPhone, pick it up in-store or get a lockable porch box and video doorbell.

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💣 War drones need specially trained operators: Well, they did. The U.S. Marine Corps is testing a new AI-powered strike drone. Select any target, and Bolt-M follows autonomously, even if it loses connection. To attack, choose the direction, angle and height, and it does the rest. Just … wow.

Control freak: The U.S. military is using video game-style controllers to operate some of its most advanced systems, including anti-ship missiles, laser weapons and unmanned vehicles. It turns out many young soldiers are pros at using them after growing up playing on PlayStation and Xbox consoles. Plus, tactile feedback beats touchscreens, delivering better precision in high-stakes situations. Smart!

This trend is going to take off: Competitive short takeoff and landing, aka STOL, looks like a lot of fun. It’s one of aviation’s fastest-growing sports, thanks, in part, to Microsoft Flight Simulator. Watch how it works — I’d love to try this!

“Are ya open?” You won’t be saying that at a new Sam’s Club in Dallas. They’re ditching checkout lanes entirely. You’ll use the Scan & Go app to ring up products and pay right through your phone. If it works in Dallas, Sam’s Club will roll back prices across the country.

I know you’ve seen it all over the news: Elon Musk recently took to the stage at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank to spotlight what he says is the future of transportation — and show off his army of cowboy hat-wearing robots. Will any of this make it to production and into our driveways? Well, we’ll see.

⚠️ Drive a Honda? They’re recalling 1.7 million vehicles, including 2022-2025 Acura Integras, Honda Civics, CR-Vs and HR-Vs. Watch for sticky steering, difficulty turning and strange noises. Call 1-888-234-2138 for info on a free fix.