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Pair win Turing Award for computer encryption breakthrough

Pair win Turing Award for computer encryption breakthrough

March 18, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A US physicist and a Canadian computer scientist won the Turing Award for developing quantum cryptography, a form of secure computer encryption. Their work, dating back to 1984, could be crucial in future electronic communications as the world increasingly relies on data sharing.

Key Facts

  • Charles H Bennett and Gilles Brassard are the award winners.
  • They developed a form of encryption called quantum cryptography.
  • Their work is significant for securing future electronic communications.
  • The invention dates back to 1984.
  • The Turing Award is known as the "Nobel Prize of computing" and includes a $1 million prize.
  • Bennett is affiliated with IBM in New York.
  • Brassard is a professor at the University of Montreal.
  • Their encryption method is based on quantum physics and is considered secure against future quantum computers.
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BBC World BBC Tech BBC Top Stories
AI Impact: What Happens When AI Moves Faster Than Oversight?

AI Impact: What Happens When AI Moves Faster Than Oversight?

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in companies is happening faster than the governance systems meant to oversee it. This rapid adoption creates challenges for businesses as they try to manage AI's risks and responsibilities.

Key Facts

  • Companies are using AI quickly, which can outpace the systems meant to control it.
  • AI is pushing organizations to rethink their oversight methods.
  • Governance frameworks, or rules systems, were made for older tech and can't keep up with fast AI development.
  • Expert Keith Enright noted that being early in AI is seen as crucial for businesses.
  • The challenge is not just about AI's technical risks but also who is responsible for AI decisions.
  • Without proper oversight, fast AI adoption can lead to unaddressed risks.
  • Organizations face a broader change as AI becomes more central in business operations.
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Scientists Put Fashion’s ‘20-Year-Rule’ to the Test—Here’s What They Found

Scientists Put Fashion’s ‘20-Year-Rule’ to the Test—Here’s What They Found

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Researchers from Princeton and Northwestern universities studied over 35,000 images of women's clothing from as far back as 1869. They found that fashion trends tend to repeat roughly every 20 years. The study used a mathematical model to track these cycles and showed how fashion evolves and circulates in society.

Key Facts

  • Researchers analyzed more than 35,000 images of women's clothing from 1869 onwards.
  • The study found that fashion trends often repeat approximately every 20 years.
  • A mathematical model was developed to understand how fashion styles change over time.
  • The research confirmed longstanding beliefs about the cyclical nature of fashion trends.
  • The study was presented at the American Physical Society's Global Physics Summit in Denver, Colorado.
  • The data for the study included historical sewing patterns and modern runway collections.
  • The study found that trends have become more fragmented since the 1980s, with multiple styles coexisting.
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Apple Launches AirPods Max 2—Why Some Are Saying They ‘Dropped the Ball’

Apple Launches AirPods Max 2—Why Some Are Saying They ‘Dropped the Ball’

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Apple has announced the AirPods Max 2, its new over-ear headphones with improved sound quality and noise cancellation, using the latest H2 chip. The headphones are priced at $550 and will be available for order starting March 25, with deliveries expected in April.

Key Facts

  • Apple unveiled AirPods Max 2 with better sound quality and noise cancellation.
  • The headphones use Apple’s new H2 chip for enhanced audio features.
  • AirPods Max 2 will be priced at $550.
  • The launch is Apple's first major update to these headphones since 2020.
  • Battery life is said to be longer in the new model.
  • Some users previously criticized the original AirPods Max for being heavy and expensive.
  • Customers can start ordering the new headphones on March 25, with availability in April.
  • Despite upgrades, the design remains largely the same as the previous model.
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Government backtracks on AI and copyright after outcry from major artists

Government backtracks on AI and copyright after outcry from major artists

March 18, 2026 • BBC Tech

Summary

The UK government has paused its plan to let AI companies use copyrighted works without permission after objections from major artists. The government now has no clear path forward and aims to find a balance between the needs of the creative sector and the AI industry.

Key Facts

  • The UK government initially allowed AI companies to use copyrighted works with an opt-out option.
  • Artists like Sir Elton John and Dua Lipa opposed this plan.
  • Technology Secretary Liz Kendall announced that the government no longer supports this approach.
  • The government aims to balance interests between creatives and AI industries.
  • There is no agreed method on how to achieve this balance.
  • The creative sector and AI industry both significantly impact the UK economy.
  • The government will not change copyright laws until they align with economic and citizen goals.
  • The issue remains unresolved, with no preferred option identified by the government.
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BBC Tech BBC Top Stories
More Apple Products Just Hit the ‘Obsolete’ List—What to Know

More Apple Products Just Hit the ‘Obsolete’ List—What to Know

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Apple has added the iPhone 4 and iPhone 5 to its obsolete products list, meaning they can no longer receive repairs from Apple or its authorized service providers. This step is part of Apple's policy to gradually stop supporting older devices. Users of these old models may need to look for third-party repair services or buy newer devices.

Key Facts

  • Apple considers a product obsolete when it cannot be repaired at their stores or by authorized providers.
  • The iPhone 4 and iPhone 5, released in 2010 and 2012, are now on Apple's obsolete list.
  • An obsolete device no longer receives official hardware support or parts.
  • Apple usually labels products obsolete seven years after they were last sold.
  • Apple introduced six new devices this month, including the MacBook Neo, while discontinuing others like the iPhone 16e.
  • People on Reddit expressed nostalgia for older iPhone models.
  • Users must now consider third-party repairs or purchasing newer models if they own obsolete devices.
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This Shih Tzu Mix Has a Strict ‘No-Phone Policy’—And She Enforces It

This Shih Tzu Mix Has a Strict ‘No-Phone Policy’—And She Enforces It

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A small dog named Roxanne, a Shih Tzu-Yorkshire terrier mix, has become popular online for enforcing a "no-phone policy" with her family. Roxanne's owner shares videos showing the dog tapping people while they use their phones, especially after dinner. This has sparked discussions about how technology affects both people and pets.

Key Facts

  • Roxanne is a mix of Shih Tzu and Yorkshire terrier breeds.
  • The dog enforces a "no-phone policy" by tapping people, which sometimes becomes more forceful.
  • The popular TikTok video showing Roxanne has received over 470,000 views and 101,000 likes.
  • Roxanne's actions are part of her daily routine, especially active after 6 p.m.
  • Many Americans feel addicted to their phones, checking them about 200 times a day.
  • A study highlights that technology in homes can impact pets, potentially affecting their interactions with owners.
  • There's a broader conversation about technology's impact on home life and pet behavior, including reliance on automated devices.
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TSA PreCheck Users Are Beating Hours-Long Wait Times—Here's How

TSA PreCheck Users Are Beating Hours-Long Wait Times—Here's How

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID helps travelers avoid long airport security lines by using facial recognition to verify identities more quickly. During a partial government shutdown, TSA workers are working without pay, leading to longer wait times, but those with TSA PreCheck can pass through faster with Touchless ID. The program requires an active airline profile with a participating carrier, a Known Traveler Number, and a valid passport.

Key Facts

  • TSA PreCheck Touchless ID uses facial-comparison technology to speed up airport security checks.
  • Travelers using this service can go through dedicated lanes, avoiding long waits.
  • To use Touchless ID, travelers need an airline profile with a participating airline, enrollment in TSA PreCheck, and a valid passport uploaded to their profile.
  • Airlines that participate include American, Alaska, Delta, Southwest, and United.
  • Travelers need to ensure the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID indicator is on their mobile boarding pass.
  • TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is expected to expand to 65 airports by Spring 2026.
  • During a partial government shutdown, TSA employees are working without pay, causing longer lines.
  • Many users report significantly shorter wait times using TSA PreCheck Touchless ID.
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Newsweek
Teacher Not Prepared for ‘Terrifying’ AI Conversation: ‘Already Lost’

Teacher Not Prepared for ‘Terrifying’ AI Conversation: ‘Already Lost’

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A teacher shared a concerning conversation with their math class about how students view AI like ChatGPT. The students questioned the need to learn when AI can do tasks for them, which worried the teacher.

Key Facts

  • A teacher on Reddit discussed a "terrifying" chat with a 9th-grade math class.
  • Students suggested AI like ChatGPT could do tasks faster than humans.
  • The teacher stressed the importance of learning and problem-solving skills.
  • Some students believe future decision-making will be done by AI, questioning the need to learn.
  • A student said they'd rely on ChatGPT at work, expecting it to be accepted by their boss.
  • Reddit users suggested ways to rethink how AI is talked about in class.
  • Concerns were raised that students are over-relying on AI, losing personal decision-making skills.
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Newsweek
Lucid’s Future Has Credible Tentpoles, Big Questions, Experts Say

Lucid’s Future Has Credible Tentpoles, Big Questions, Experts Say

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Lucid Motors, an electric vehicle company, held an investor day to reveal new models and partnerships, including plans for a new midsize vehicle platform and a partnership with Uber. The company has shown growth in vehicle deliveries but still struggles with profitability. Lucid aims to expand its market by offering more affordable models and software advancements.

Key Facts

  • Lucid Motors, founded in 2007, originally made battery packs for electric buses.
  • The company rebranded in 2016 to focus on making electric cars.
  • Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund is a major investor in Lucid.
  • Lucid delivered its first Gravity SUV in late 2025.
  • Vehicle deliveries have grown from 4,300 in 2022 to a projected 15,800 in 2025.
  • Lucid reported a $3.5 billion loss in 2025 but has $4.6 billion to fund operations until 2027.
  • The company plans to launch more affordable models and extend partnerships with companies like Uber.
  • Lucid aims to introduce an AI assistant and monetize software and services in its vehicles.
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AI's revenue divide

AI's revenue divide

March 18, 2026 • Axios

Summary

Anthropic is now leading in sales among businesses buying AI tools for the first time, with 73% of the market share. The competition is shifting focus to making money quickly, and OpenAI is changing its strategy to focus more on enterprise clients.

Key Facts

  • Anthropic captures 73% of first-time business purchases of AI tools.
  • Ten weeks ago, Anthropic and OpenAI had equal market shares; previously, OpenAI led.
  • OpenAI is shifting focus from consumer products to enterprise clients.
  • OpenAI expects to generate $25 billion in revenue this year.
  • Anthropic is expected to generate $19 billion, but it's growing faster.
  • Some big companies prefer not to commit to one AI model yet due to rapid tech changes.
  • The AI industry is in a crucial phase of change, according to experts.
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Axios
Trump administration defends Anthropic blacklisting in US court

Trump administration defends Anthropic blacklisting in US court

March 18, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump's administration has defended the Pentagon's decision to blacklist the artificial intelligence company Anthropic, saying it was due to national security concerns. Anthropic is challenging this decision in court, arguing that it violates its constitutional rights. The company had refused to ease restrictions on its AI technology, which led to the blacklisting.

Key Facts

  • The Pentagon blacklisted Anthropic due to national security supply chain concerns.
  • Anthropic refused to remove limits that prevented its AI from being used in weapons and surveillance.
  • President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth supported the decision to blacklist Anthropic.
  • Anthropic filed a lawsuit in California, claiming the decision violated their constitutional rights.
  • The Trump administration argues that the lawsuit relates to contract issues, not free speech.
  • Anthropic says the blacklisting could harm its reputation and financial standing.
  • There is a second lawsuit about Anthropic being designated a supply chain risk by the Pentagon.
  • The White House has not commented on the matter.
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Al Jazeera
Man Wears Smartwatch for Years—Until He Notices Something ‘Different’

Man Wears Smartwatch for Years—Until He Notices Something ‘Different’

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A man who wore an Apple Watch Ultra 2 for years noticed a red mark on his wrist and shared his concerns online. Many people suggested it could be skin irritation caused by wearing the watch continuously. Experts advise keeping the device clean and taking breaks from wearing it.

Key Facts

  • A man posted on Reddit about a red mark on his wrist from wearing an Apple Watch Ultra 2.
  • He has worn the smartwatch almost continuously for several years.
  • Over 600 comments on Reddit discussed possible causes, mainly suggesting skin irritation.
  • Suggestions included taking breaks from wearing the watch and ensuring proper hygiene.
  • Contact dermatitis, an itchy rash from repeated contact with substances, can be a cause.
  • Apple recommends cleaning the watch and ensuring a comfortable fit to prevent skin issues.
  • Medical advice highlights monitoring skin changes and avoiding irritants for healing.
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Newsweek
Ad for AI editing app which said it could 'remove anything' banned

Ad for AI editing app which said it could 'remove anything' banned

March 18, 2026 • BBC Tech

Summary

The UK advertising regulator banned an ad for an AI editing app called PixVideo because it suggested users could remove clothing from images of women, which could be offensive and harmful. The ad's presentation was criticized for encouraging the inappropriate alteration of images. Saeta Tech, the company behind the app, has paused ads and is reviewing its marketing practices.

Key Facts

  • The ad for PixVideo appeared on YouTube and implied users could remove clothing from images.
  • Eight people complained that the ad was offensive and objectified women.
  • The UK Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) banned the ad for being irresponsible.
  • The ad suggested that altering images to expose women's bodies without consent was possible.
  • Saeta Tech stated such use was against their policy and blamed poor presentation of the ad.
  • The ad is no longer running, and the company is reviewing its advertising strategies.
  • The issue of apps removing clothing from images has been a topic of concern globally.
  • The UK government plans to make it illegal to create or supply technology that removes clothing from images without consent.
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BBC Tech BBC Business BBC Top Stories
Meta Confirms Major Privacy Change on Instagram—What Users Can Do

Meta Confirms Major Privacy Change on Instagram—What Users Can Do

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Meta plans to stop supporting end-to-end encrypted messaging on Instagram by May 2026. Users will receive notifications to help them save their data before this change takes effect. Encrypted messaging will still be available on WhatsApp, another platform owned by Meta.

Key Facts

  • Meta will end support for end-to-end encrypted direct messages on Instagram by May 8, 2026.
  • End-to-end encryption prevents third parties, including Meta, from accessing user messages.
  • Users will receive in-app notifications with instructions on preserving their encrypted data.
  • Meta suggests users switch to WhatsApp for encrypted messaging.
  • End-to-end encryption was first introduced on Instagram in 2023.
  • Users need to download their data before encryption support ends in 2026.
  • The decision is partly due to low user adoption of the encryption feature on Instagram.
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Newsweek
No ‘Silver Bullet’ for Emergency Department Crisis, CEO Says

No ‘Silver Bullet’ for Emergency Department Crisis, CEO Says

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Emergency departments in hospitals face challenges like overcrowding and staff shortages. Experts are using technology to help manage these problems and improve patient care. The focus is on using tech before, during, and after patient visits to make the process smoother.

Key Facts

  • Patient numbers in emergency departments can vary greatly depending on the season.
  • Hospitals experience issues like staff shortages and employee burnout.
  • Technology, such as AI tools and automated protocols, is being used to improve efficiency.
  • Overcrowded emergency departments affect the whole hospital system.
  • Many emergency department tasks are non-clinical, taking time away from patient care.
  • Tech solutions help staff recognize patient surges and manage resources better.
  • 60 to 70 percent of hospital beds are used by patients who can't care for themselves at home.
  • Telehealth can help determine if patients need hospital admission.
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Newsweek
When to Watch ‘Cross' Season 2 – Episode 8 Release Date, Streaming Time

When to Watch ‘Cross' Season 2 – Episode 8 Release Date, Streaming Time

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The final episode of "Cross" Season 2 will be available on Prime Video on March 18, 2026. The show stars Aldis Hodge as a police detective and is based on James Patterson's novel series. To watch, viewers need a subscription to Prime Video.

Key Facts

  • "Cross" Season 2, Episode 8 airs on March 18, 2026.
  • The series is exclusive to Prime Video.
  • The show features Aldis Hodge as Alex Cross, a police detective.
  • "Cross" is based on books by author James Patterson.
  • The first episode of Season 2 released on February 11, 2026.
  • New episodes stream in the U.S. starting at 12:00 a.m. PT.
  • The show has a 93% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
  • Isaiah Mustafa plays John Sampson, Alex's partner in the show.
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Newsweek
‘Invincible’ Season 4 Episode 1 – Release Date, Schedule, How to Watch

‘Invincible’ Season 4 Episode 1 – Release Date, Schedule, How to Watch

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The animated series "Invincible" is returning with its fourth season on Prime Video, starting with three episodes on March 18, 2026. New episodes will come out weekly through April 22, 2026. To watch, viewers need a Prime Video subscription.

Key Facts

  • "Invincible" Season 4 begins on Prime Video with three episodes on March 18, 2026.
  • After the premiere, new episodes will release weekly, ending on April 22, 2026.
  • The show features voice actors like Steven Yeun, Sandra Oh, and J.K. Simmons.
  • A Prime Video subscription is necessary to watch the series; it costs $8.99 per month or $139 annually with Amazon Prime.
  • Season 4 follows Mark as he faces a major threat to humanity.
  • Episode 1 will be available at 12 a.m. PT/3 a.m. ET on March 18, 2026.
  • The exact runtime for Episode 1 is not confirmed, but past episodes have been about 49 minutes long.
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Tech Life

Tech Life

March 17, 2026 • BBC Tech

Summary

The article examines the impact of screen time on young children, providing insights from experts and parents. It also shares stories about how artificial intelligence (AI) helped individuals with voice-related experiences.

Key Facts

  • The article looks at how screen time affects babies and young children.
  • Experts and parents give insights on this matter.
  • A story highlights a woman regaining her voice using AI technology.
  • A listener shared a story about hearing his father's voice for the first time in 50 years with AI's help.
  • The program is produced by Imran Rahman-Jones and Vuyelo Ndlovu and presented by Shiona McCallum.
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BBC Tech
Acclaimed Comic Book Writer Secretly Co-Wrote 'Dune: Part Three'

Acclaimed Comic Book Writer Secretly Co-Wrote 'Dune: Part Three'

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The upcoming film "Dune: Part Three," set to release in December 2026, has announced a collaboration between director Denis Villeneuve and comic book writer Brian K. Vaughan. Vaughan, known for his work in comics and TV but new to feature film writing, joins as co-writer, following Jon Spaihts' involvement in the first two films.

Key Facts

  • "Dune: Part Three" will be released on December 18, 2026.
  • Director Denis Villeneuve co-wrote the first two films with Jon Spaihts.
  • Brian K. Vaughan is co-writing "Dune: Part Three" with Villeneuve.
  • Vaughan is known for creating comic series like "Y: The Last Man," "Ex Machina," "Saga," and "Runaways."
  • Vaughan has experience writing for TV shows such as "Lost" and "Under the Dome."
  • This project marks Vaughan's first experience writing a feature film.
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