Here's a news article synthesizing the provided information:
Tech and Defense Dominate Headlines as 2026 Begins
Several significant developments across technology and defense emerged this week, ranging from advancements in AI wearables and nuclear energy to debates over European defense and broadband access.
Meta is heavily investing in AI wearables, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg predicting a future where most glasses are AI-powered. According to Zuckerberg, during Meta's Q4 2025 earnings call on Wednesday, "It's hard to imagine a world in several years where most glasses that people wear aren't AI glasses." He noted that sales of Meta's glasses tripled in the last year, calling them "some of the fastest growing consumer electronics in history," according to TechCrunch.
Meanwhile, the demand for energy to power AI is driving investment in next-generation nuclear power. MIT Technology Review reported that these new nuclear plants could be cheaper to construct and safer to operate than older models. The publication hosted a discussion with editors and reporters on the topic, highlighting both hyperscale AI data centers and next-gen nuclear reactors as breakthrough technologies of 2026.
In defense news, European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius told Euronews that while the EU relies on the US nuclear umbrella, it "can and must work towards becoming independent in conventional defence." Kubilius stated that "Europeans cannot replace the US nuclear umbrella, at least for the time being, but when it comes to conventional defence the situation is different." This comes after NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the European Union relies on US nuclear protections.
SpaceX is seeking to expand broadband access through Starlink, but is also making demands on states providing broadband grants. Ars Technica reported that SpaceX will provide all necessary equipment to receive broadband at no cost to subscribers requesting service, eliminating the up-front hardware fee. The company pledged to make broadband available for $80 or less a month, plus taxes and fees, to people with low incomes in subsidized areas.
Finally, in the realm of biotechnology, MIT Technology Review reported that Life Biosciences, a Boston startup, received FDA approval for the first human test of a rejuvenation method. The company plans to treat eye disease using a "reprogramming" concept that has attracted significant investment from Silicon Valley firms.
Discussion
Join the conversation
Be the first to comment