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Explore six unsettling predictions for AI in 2026, including potential layoffs at OpenAI, misinformation campaigns affecting data center growth, AI-driven robotic demos, a possible market bubble deflation, surveillance-powered work automation, privacy concerns with always-on AI devices, and the expanding, yet safe, presence of robotaxi services.

Scammers in China are exploiting AI-generated images and videos to fraudulently claim refunds on e-commerce platforms, particularly for groceries, beauty products, and fragile goods. This growing trend poses challenges for merchants and may lead to stricter return policies.

The Uncanny Valley podcast wraps up its 2025 season with hosts Michael Calore and Lauren Goode sharing reflections on the past year and perspectives on 2026. They discuss emerging trends like ambient AI assistance, anticipated tech IPOs, and shifting views on tech CEOs. New hosts Brian Barrett, Zoë Schiffer, and Leah Feiger will take over the show, promising fresh insights. The episode also features personal recommendations and a warm sendoff as the podcast enters a new era.

In 2025, technological innovation and political upheaval went hand in hand, from the explosive growth of AI infrastructure to controversial government departments and ongoing political scandals. This recap highlights five key trends shaping both tech and politics as we move into 2026.

Known is a San Francisco-based dating startup using voice AI to enhance onboarding, leading to deeper user insights and a higher rate of in-person dates compared to traditional swipe apps. The company has raised nearly $10 million and aims to reduce ghosting by encouraging real-life meetings.

OpenAI has enhanced its ChatGPT guidelines to better protect users under 18, introducing stricter rules and new educational resources amid rising concerns about AI's impact on young people. These updates include prohibitions on certain role-play interactions and emphasize teen safety, while lawmakers consider further regulations for minors' AI use.

Several prominent hardware companies, including iRobot, Luminar, and Rad Power Bikes, filed for bankruptcy recently due to a mix of market challenges and supply chain issues, illustrating the difficulties hardware startups face today.

Yann LeCun recently confirmed the launch of his new AI startup, Advanced Machine Intelligence (AMI), focusing on world model AI. The company, led by CEO Alex LeBrun, aims to raise significant funding and is positioned to advance AI beyond current large language models by simulating environments to improve prediction and reduce hallucinations.

Cursor, an AI coding assistant, has expanded its capabilities by acquiring Graphite, a startup that specializes in AI-based code review and debugging. This move enhances Cursor's offerings by integrating Graphite's unique "stacked pull request" technology, allowing developers to manage multiple dependent code changes efficiently.

Adobe faces a proposed class-action lawsuit alleging unauthorized use of authors' works for AI training, highlighting ongoing legal challenges in the AI industry related to copyrighted content.

A Swedish developer has created a platform that sells code modules simulating the effects of various drugs for ChatGPT, aiming to make chatbots respond as if influenced. This raises questions about AI creativity, sentience, and ethical considerations.

In a recent interview at WIRED's Big Interview event, director Jon M. Chu discusses the success of the "Wicked" franchise, the challenges and opportunities of marketing films in the digital age, and his views on AI's role in filmmaking. Chu reflects on the personal journey of creating "Wicked," the impact of social media on movie promotion, and the importance of authentic human creativity. He also shares insights on representation, his approach to diversity without debate, and the enduring power of cinema.