MIT Technology Review's 2026 list of breakthrough technologies highlights advancements poised to reshape industries, including sodium-ion batteries offering a cheaper, safer alternative to lithium-ion for grid storage and smaller EVs. The list also features next-generation nuclear and hyperscale AI data centers, signaling a significant push towards innovative climate and energy solutions.
Egnyte, a cloud content governance company, is strategically hiring junior engineers and leveraging AI coding tools like Claude Code and Gemini CLI to accelerate their training and integration into the development process. This approach aims to scale engineering capacity and foster internal talent growth, demonstrating a model where AI augments human developers rather than replacing them, and supports the company's expansion into AI-driven products.
Researchers at TU Wien have discovered a quantum material where electrons cease behaving as particles, yet surprisingly, exotic topological states still emerge. This finding challenges conventional understanding by demonstrating that topology, a fundamental aspect of quantum physics, can exist independently of particle-like electron behavior, potentially impacting the development of novel electronic devices.
The Nolah Evolution hybrid mattress, a top-rated model known for its adaptability to various sleep positions and body types due to its zoned foams and pocketed coils, is currently on sale. Nolah is offering 35% off site-wide, with an additional $50 off for WIRED readers using the code WIRED50, making it a prime opportunity to invest in sleep quality during the Presidents Day sales event. This sale allows consumers to access advanced sleep technology at a reduced price, potentially improving sleep health and overall well-being.
Next-generation nuclear reactors are gaining traction as a potential solution for clean energy, offering a modern alternative to traditional, costly nuclear power plants. However, the rapid expansion of hyperscale data centers, while technologically impressive, is facing increasing public opposition due to concerns about resource consumption and environmental impact across various states.
Following public outcry and an Ofcom investigation, X is reportedly addressing the issue of sexualized deepfakes generated by its Grok AI tool, potentially complying with upcoming UK law criminalizing non-consensual deepfakes. The platform's response, which may involve preventing Grok from generating such images, highlights the challenges of AI content moderation and the increasing regulatory scrutiny of AI-powered platforms.
After extensive testing, the Apple Watch Series 11 emerges as the top choice for iPhone users, while the Google Pixel Watch 4 leads for Android, offering features from fitness tracking to notifications. This guide highlights a range of smartwatches, including the Apple Watch SE 3 and Samsung Galaxy Watch8, catering to diverse needs and preferences within the evolving wearable technology market.
The rise of on-device AI processing, exemplified by Apple Intelligence and Microsoft's Copilot laptops, suggests a potential future where powerful AI runs locally on devices, reducing reliance on massive data centers. While current adoption is limited to premium devices, this trend could revolutionize the data center industry if efficient AI becomes widely accessible on standard equipment, though data center demand remains high in the short term.
A network linked to Israel is leveraging social media, particularly X, to shape the narrative around Iranian protests using the hashtag #FreeThePersianPeople. Al Jazeera's data analysis reveals that the campaign lacks organic engagement and is largely driven by inauthentic accounts, highlighting the increasing role of digital manipulation in shaping geopolitical events. This coordinated effort aims to present a specific view of the protests and influence global perception of the situation in Iran.
OpenAI has invested in Merge Labs, Sam Altman's BCI startup focused on non-invasive neural interfaces using molecules and ultrasound, aiming to enhance human capabilities and AI collaboration. This $250 million seed round, valuing Merge Labs at $850 million, positions it as a competitor to Neuralink, though Merge Labs is pursuing a less invasive approach than Neuralink's surgical implants. The investment highlights the growing interest and competition in the BCI field, promising advancements in restoring lost abilities and expanding human potential through AI integration.
Next-generation nuclear reactors are gaining traction as a potential solution for clean energy, offering a modern alternative to traditional, costly nuclear power plants. However, the rapid proliferation of hyperscale data centers, while technologically impressive, is facing increasing public backlash due to concerns about resource consumption and environmental impact across various states.
Volvo's upcoming EX60 SUV will feature HuginCore, a new software-defined platform powered by Google's Gemini, enabling advanced data processing and real-time environmental awareness for improved vehicle performance and safety. This second-generation platform marks a significant step in Volvo's transition to software-defined vehicles, utilizing advanced electronic architecture and drawing inspiration from Norse mythology to emphasize data collection and informed decision-making.
The rise of on-device AI processing, exemplified by Apple Intelligence and Microsoft's Copilot laptops, suggests a potential future where powerful AI runs locally on personal devices, reducing reliance on massive data centers. While current capabilities are limited to premium devices, this trend could reshape the data center industry if efficient AI becomes widely accessible on standard hardware, though experts emphasize this is a long-term prospect. Data center demand is not currently shrinking.
Spotify is increasing its U.S. subscription prices for the third time in three years, now costing $12.99 per month, to enhance user experience and artist compensation. Analysts predict this move, mirroring similar increases in other markets, could boost Spotify's revenue by $500 million, impacting the streaming music industry's pricing models.
Elon Musk denies knowledge of Grok generating sexualized images of minors as the California Attorney General initiates an investigation into xAI's chatbot. The probe follows reports of users exploiting Grok to create non-consensual, sexually explicit material, prompting concerns over legal violations and the need for immediate action to prevent further misuse, potentially impacting AI content governance standards.
Following a recent ICE shooting, tech workers are increasingly vocal against the agency's actions, contrasting with the silence of their CEOs. A petition signed by over 150 employees from companies like Meta urges leadership to publicly condemn ICE and demand their withdrawal from US cities, signaling a growing ethical divide within the tech industry.
Amidst Iranian government-imposed internet shutdowns, Starlink is reportedly providing free satellite internet service, offering a crucial communication lifeline for protesters despite its illegality. This move, leveraging SpaceX's technology, allows Iranians to bypass censorship and share information, but users face significant risks due to government surveillance and potential repercussions. The impact on the Iranian protests and the broader adoption of satellite internet in censored regions remains to be seen.
Ronald Deibert, director of Citizen Lab, is dedicated to uncovering digital espionage, even going to extreme lengths to protect himself from surveillance. In climate tech, 2026 is expected to bring breakthroughs in key areas.
Companies should view AI as a transformative tool for business model innovation, not just cost reduction, to fully realize its potential. Successful AI implementation requires establishing a solid data infrastructure and focusing on high-value projects that drive growth and sales, similar to the impact of the internet. By prioritizing strategic applications over simple cost-saving measures, businesses can unlock AI's ability to revolutionize various industries.
Monzo Bank resolved an issue that temporarily impacted its mobile banking app, affecting thousands of users who reported access problems. During the outage, Monzo activated its backup system, Monzo Stand-in, ensuring users could still make payments, withdraw cash, and manage essential functions, though some reported limited access to account details and transfers. The company has since restored full app functionality.
