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In early 2026, AI continues to reshape technology, with vibe coding revolutionizing software development, government launching a major tech talent initiative, and societal concerns rising over AI's influence on human behavior and security. These developments highlight rapid progress and emerging risks.
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Microsoft offers a lifetime license for Office 2024 Home & Business at $99.97, eliminating subscription fees. The new version is faster, optimized, and includes AI enhancements, with offline access and real-time collaboration. This move responds to user demand for more predictable, one-time payment software.
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As of early 2026, Australia has implemented a ban on social media access for children under 16, prompting France to prepare similar legislation banning under-15s from social media starting September 2026. Other countries including Denmark, Norway, and Malaysia are considering comparable measures amid rising concerns over youth mental health and online harms. The bans target platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X, aiming to protect young people from exposure to harmful content and addictive behaviors.
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As of mid-January 2026, the FTSE 100 has surpassed 10,000 for the first time, capping a 21.5% gain in 2025 driven by mining, defence, and financial sectors. This milestone coincides with heightened geopolitical tensions following the US capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, which has spurred investor interest in Venezuelan debt and defence stocks, while oil prices face downward pressure.
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At CES 2026, Nvidia announced its Vera Rubin AI platform, entering full production with a six-chip architecture promising five times the AI computing power of previous models. The platform targets complex AI workloads and will ship in the second half of 2026 to major cloud providers. The event also showcased Lego's new Smart Play system, advances in robotics, AI-powered consumer products, and autonomous vehicle technology.
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Major consulting firms like McKinsey and BCG are integrating thousands of AI agents into their operations, transforming how they work and hire. Experts warn AI could displace large parts of the workforce but also offer productivity gains and new skills. The story highlights ongoing industry shifts and future implications.
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As of January 29, 2026, Tesla reported a 46% drop in net income for 2025 to $3.8 billion, with Q4 profit plunging 61% to $840 million. Revenue declined 3% year-on-year to $24.9 billion in Q4. Despite falling car sales and political backlash, Tesla is investing $2 billion in AI startup xAI and advancing its robotaxi and humanoid robot projects, aiming to shift focus from vehicles to AI-driven services.
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Despite concerns over AI-driven overvaluation, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley forecast continued US stock growth in 2026. Goldman expects a 7% return, citing strong earnings and economic resilience, while Morgan Stanley predicts a 13% rise driven by global cyclical recovery and commodity demand. Experts warn of potential risks, including a possible market correction and shifts in investor confidence.
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Microsoft announced plans to pay utility rates covering its data centers' electricity costs, aiming to reduce impact on local communities amid rising AI infrastructure demands. The move follows political pressure from President Trump and industry concerns over environmental and economic effects of data center expansion.
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The US government and northeastern governors are urging PJM, the largest power grid operator, to hold a new auction allowing tech companies to fund new power plants. This aims to address rising energy costs driven by data centers and aging infrastructure, with potential to add $15 billion in capacity.
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Leading experts warn that AI development risks hitting a dead end, environmental strain, and safety threats. Critics highlight the need for regulation amid concerns over resource use and potential existential dangers as AI systems grow more powerful and widespread.
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A planned $100 billion investment deal between Nvidia and OpenAI has fallen apart amid reports of internal doubts and dissatisfaction with Nvidia's chips. Both companies deny tension, but the deal's collapse raises questions about AI infrastructure funding and industry confidence as OpenAI explores alternatives.
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Tesla's 2025 revenues declined 3% to $69.5 billion amid falling car sales, but energy and services divisions grew. Net profit plunged 61% to $840 million, with operating margins shrinking. The company plans new vehicle launches and AI investments in 2026.
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Tesla announced plans to discontinue its Model S and X vehicles, redirecting factory space to produce its Optimus robots. CEO Elon Musk emphasized increased investment in AI, with a $20 billion capital expenditure for new projects, signaling a strategic pivot from traditional electric vehicles to AI-driven products amid declining EV sales.
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European governments are increasingly shifting away from US-based digital services, such as Zoom and Teams, toward domestic or open-source alternatives. France plans to replace US tools with its own Visio platform by 2027, citing data security and sovereignty concerns amid rising geopolitical tensions and dependence on US tech giants.
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The UK government is investing in advanced nuclear reactors and AI-focused zones. Britain aims to meet climate goals, support the AI sector, and create jobs, with projects in Barnsley and Lanarkshire backed by government and private funds. The initiatives reflect a strategic push for technological and energy independence.
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Multiple personal stories highlight health challenges, mental health struggles, and the impact of social media. A woman overcomes cancer and career doubts, a teen faces violent side effects from medication, and a mother fights to hold social media companies accountable for her daughter's death. These stories reveal resilience, medical risks, and societal issues.
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The 'Housing for the 21st Century Act' passed without a White House-backed investor ban, despite efforts from the Biden administration. The debate centers on whether limiting large institutional investors can make homes more affordable amid rising prices and low sales. The White House views the bill as incomplete without this restriction.
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President Trump announced a new pledge requiring major tech firms to build their own power plants to meet rising electricity demands from AI data centers. The initiative aims to prevent higher consumer costs amid record power demand and utility rate hikes across the US, with several companies already planning on-site power solutions.