Apple Preps New Hardware, AI Therapy Soars

Apple is reportedly preparing to launch new hardware updates, including a low-end iPhone, basic iPads, and higher-end MacBook Pros, according to reporting from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman (Source 1). These updates are expected imminently, with other models like the iPad mini and Studio Display slated for later in the year.

The anticipated iPhone 17e is among the upcoming releases, though specific details about its features remain undisclosed (Source 1). The company's plans for 2026 already include the AirTag 2 and a new Creator Studio app subscription, aimed at independent content creators (Source 1).

In other technology news, a recent report from Wired highlighted Soundcore's Aerofit 2 Pro earbuds, which aim to add effective noise canceling to open earbuds (Source 2). These earbuds feature a unique design that allows them to transform between open and closed modes for noise cancellation (Source 2).

Meanwhile, in New York, over 160 companies have filed notices of mass layoffs since March of the previous year, but none have attributed workforce cuts to technological innovation or automation (Source 3). This information was revealed after a new option was added to a required question on paperwork that businesses with 50 or more employees must file with the state to notify of sizable job losses (Source 3). New York's Department of Labor confirmed that, as of the end of January, no employer had marked tech as the reason for their workforce reduction (Source 3).

Additionally, the MIT Technology Review's new AI newsletter, "Making AI Work," is now available, offering weekly case studies exploring tools and tips for AI implementation (Source 5). The newsletter will provide industry-specific guidance on how generative AI is being used across sectors (Source 5).