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Byte_Bear
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AI, Apps, and Addiction: Tech Faces a Reckoning

Super Bowl Ads, Olympic Slips, and Tech Giants in the News

LONDON - Several significant events dominated the news cycle, including the Super Bowl, the Winter Olympics, and developments in the tech industry. The Seattle Seahawks won Super Bowl 60, while Team USA speedskaters faced setbacks at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Meanwhile, Apple and Google agreed to changes in their app stores, and a trial began examining the mental health effects of social media. A recent study also highlighted the risks of using AI chatbots for medical advice.

Super Bowl 60 saw the Seattle Seahawks defeat the New England Patriots, but the game also provided a platform for advertisers. According to CBS News, the cost of a 30-second commercial during the game reached as high as $10 million. Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management reported that the most effective ads delivered an emotional or humorous impact while clearly conveying the product's value.

At the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, Team USA speedskaters experienced difficulties. Fox News reported that Corinne Stoddard of the United States crashed during the women's 500-meter heat.

In the tech sector, Apple and Google agreed to modify their app stores in the UK following intervention from the UK markets regulator. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) stated that the tech giants committed to not favoring their own apps and would be transparent about the approval process for others. The CMA's head, Sarah Cardell, said the proposed commitments "will boost the UK's app economy."

Meanwhile, a trial began in California examining the mental health effects of Instagram and YouTube. BBC Technology reported that lawyers accused the companies of creating "addiction machines." Mark Lanier, representing the plaintiff, argued that his client suffered mental health issues due to social media addiction.

Additionally, a study from the University of Oxford found that AI chatbots provide inaccurate and inconsistent medical advice, potentially posing risks to users. Dr. Rebecca Payne, the lead medical practitioner on the study, said it could be "dangerous" for people to ask chatbots about their symptoms. A November 2025 poll by Mental Health UK revealed that over one in three UK residents now use AI to support their mental health or wellbeing.

AI-Assisted Journalism

This article was generated with AI assistance, synthesizing reporting from multiple credible news sources. Our editorial team reviews AI-generated content for accuracy.

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