Artificial intelligence is increasingly moving from research labs into everyday clinical workflows, and prenatal imaging is one of the latest areas to see rapid innovation. DeepTech company Diagnoly has announced the launch of its real-time fetal ultrasound AI assistant, Fetoly, on iOS, expanding global access to AI-assisted prenatal care.

Already deployed in more than 20 countries, the new iOS release allows obstetricians, maternal fetal medicine specialists, and sonographers to run the application directly on an iPad, connecting seamlessly to existing ultrasound systems without requiring additional hardware or upgrades.

This marks another step in the broader trend of AI moving into mobile, interoperable healthcare tools that integrate directly into clinical workflows rather than requiring entirely new systems.

AI As A Second Set Of Eyes

Fetoly AI analyzes fetal ultrasound scans in real time, helping clinicians verify anatomical landmarks and examination completeness

Fetoly is designed to function as a real-time ultrasound assistant, continuously analyzing the full ultrasound video stream during fetal examinations. The system helps verify that examinations are complete by identifying anatomical structures and can highlight suspicious findings through automated measurements, while keeping clinicians fully in control of the diagnostic process.

According to Diagnoly, the goal is not to replace clinicians but to provide a second layer of analysis that improves consistency, efficiency, and diagnostic confidence.

Fetal ultrasound is widely considered one of the most operator-dependent imaging procedures in medicine, with outcomes often influenced by the experience of the practitioner and the clinical environment. AI-assisted analysis has the potential to reduce variability and help standardize examination quality across healthcare systems worldwide.

Running Locally, Not In The Cloud

One of the notable aspects of Fetoly is that it operates locally on the device rather than relying on cloud processing. This approach helps address data security and privacy concerns while also ensuring the application can function reliably in clinical environments without constant internet connectivity.

This local-processing model is becoming increasingly important in healthcare AI, where data privacy, regulatory compliance, and workflow integration are critical factors for adoption.

Expanding Clinical Capabilities

The latest version of the application includes improvements in real-time performance and anatomical detection, as well as new automated measurement ratios that assist in detecting conditions such as:

• Ventriculomegaly
• Corpus callosum abnormalities
• Total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR)

These updates are delivered through regular software updates, allowing the system to continuously evolve and improve clinical support without requiring new hardware.

The Rise Of Mobile Medical AI

The launch of Fetoly on iOS reflects a broader shift in medical technology toward mobile, AI-powered tools that can run on tablets and portable devices. Instead of large centralized systems, many healthcare AI tools are now designed to work alongside existing equipment, making adoption faster and more cost-effective.

This trend is particularly important for prenatal care, where access to specialist expertise varies significantly across regions. AI tools that support clinicians in real time could help improve diagnostic quality and access to care globally.

As demand continues to grow for intelligent imaging tools and AI-assisted diagnostics, solutions like Fetoly highlight how artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming embedded directly into everyday clinical practice rather than remaining a separate technology layer.

The post Bringing AI Into Prenatal Ultrasound appeared first on Tech Trends.

Watching television has traditionally been a social activity, whether sitting with family, texting friends during a show, or discussing plot twists online. But a new trend is emerging: people are increasingly watching TV with AI companions instead of other people.

As streaming libraries grow and social schedules become more fragmented, AI companion apps are beginning to fill the gap left by solo viewing. These apps can react to shows in real time, discuss characters, and even debate plot theories with viewers, creating a shared viewing experience without another person in the room.

According to AI innovation experts, this shift reflects broader changes in how people consume entertainment and interact with technology.

Why watching TV feels better with company

There is a psychological reason why watching TV with someone else often feels more enjoyable. Shared media consumption increases emotional engagement, and reacting together to plot twists, jokes, or dramatic moments makes the experience feel more immersive.

AI companions attempt to replicate this social dynamic by responding to what users are watching and participating in conversation about characters, storylines, and theories. This turns passive viewing into a more interactive experience.

Rather than simply watching a show alone, viewers can discuss what’s happening in real time with an AI companion that is always available and always engaged.

The rise of AI companionship

AI companion apps have grown rapidly in recent years, moving from niche chatbot tools to full digital companion platforms offering conversation, emotional support, and interactive experiences.

Platforms like <a href=”https://flirtcam.ai/”>Flirtcam.AI</a> allow users to create AI companions that can chat, react, and interact with users across different activities, including entertainment and media consumption.

This reflects a broader trend in technology where AI is becoming less of a tool and more of a companion, assistant, or social presence in everyday life.

Shows that work well with AI co-viewing

According to AI experts, certain types of shows work particularly well for watching with an AI companion. These tend to be shows with strong characters, ongoing storylines, mysteries, or plots that encourage discussion and debate.

Examples often mentioned include:

• Brooklyn Nine-Nine
• Sherlock
• How I Met Your Mother
• Stranger Things
• The Office (US)

These shows generate conversation, theories, and emotional reactions, which makes them well suited to interactive viewing experiences.

Convenience versus real connection

One of the biggest reasons people use AI companions is convenience. An AI companion is always available, never argues about what to watch, and can immediately discuss a plot twist or ending.

However, experts warn that while AI can simulate social interaction, it is not the same as human interaction. The challenge for technology companies will be ensuring that AI companions complement real social experiences rather than replace them.

Streaming platforms are already experimenting with watch parties, shared viewing features, and interactive content, and AI companions may become part of that ecosystem in the future.

The future of entertainment may be interactive

The rise of AI companions suggests that the future of entertainment may be more interactive and social, even when people are physically watching alone.

Instead of passively watching content, viewers may increasingly:

• Discuss shows with AI companions
• Receive commentary or analysis from AI
• Get recommendations based on emotional reactions
• Participate in interactive storylines
• Watch content designed specifically for AI-assisted viewing

As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into everyday life, entertainment may shift from something we simply watch to something we experience interactively.

The post Watching TV With AI appeared first on Tech Trends.

As artificial intelligence infrastructure expands at an unprecedented pace, one of the biggest challenges facing the industry is not computing power — but electricity. A new collaboration between engineering firm AtkinsRéalis and NVIDIA highlights how nuclear energy could play a major role in powering the next generation of AI data centers.

The companies are exploring how nuclear power infrastructure, digital twins, and accelerated computing could be combined to support the development of large-scale AI facilities, sometimes referred to as AI factories.

The growing energy problem behind AI

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence, data centers, and high-performance computing is driving massive increases in global electricity demand. Training and running large AI models requires enormous computing power, which in turn requires reliable and continuous energy supply.

This is why governments and infrastructure developers are increasingly exploring nuclear energy as a low-carbon, baseload power source for future AI infrastructure.

AtkinsRéalis, a major engineering and nuclear company, is working with NVIDIA to explore how nuclear-powered infrastructure could support next-generation AI facilities. The collaboration will look at how AI-ready facilities could be designed, optimized, and deployed using digital twin technology and high-performance simulation tools.

Digital twins and AI infrastructure design

One of the key technologies involved in the collaboration is NVIDIA Omniverse, which allows companies to create detailed digital twins of infrastructure projects before construction begins.

Using digital twins, engineers can simulate infrastructure systems in a virtual environment, test different configurations, optimize performance, and identify potential issues before building in the real world. This can reduce costs, accelerate construction timelines, and improve safety and efficiency.

The companies are exploring how these tools could be used to design integrated infrastructure systems combining nuclear energy, power distribution, cooling systems, and large-scale AI computing facilities.

Nuclear power and AI factories

The concept of “AI factories” refers to large-scale data centers dedicated specifically to artificial intelligence workloads. These facilities require massive amounts of continuous electricity, making nuclear power an attractive option due to its reliability and low carbon emissions.

The collaboration will explore several areas including:

• Integrating nuclear power with AI data center infrastructure
• Using digital twins and simulation for infrastructure planning
• Improving engineering workflows with AI tools
• Accelerating construction and project delivery
• Optimizing power distribution and cooling systems

The partnership reflects a broader trend across the technology industry, where energy infrastructure is becoming a critical factor in the future of artificial intelligence development.

Energy becoming the limiting factor for AI growth

As AI models continue to grow in size and complexity, energy availability is increasingly becoming one of the biggest constraints on AI expansion.

Large technology companies, infrastructure providers, and governments are now exploring nuclear energy, renewable energy, and new power infrastructure solutions to support future data center growth.

The collaboration between AtkinsRéalis and NVIDIA shows how the future of artificial intelligence may depend not only on chips and software, but on power generation, infrastructure engineering, and energy strategy.

The post Powering AI With Nuclear Energy appeared first on Tech Trends.

As businesses race to adopt AI, traditional hiring models are being challenged—opening the door to a more diverse and potentially more effective workforce.

A Different Kind of Competitive Advantage

As artificial intelligence continues to transform how businesses operate, a new conversation is emerging around talent—and who is best equipped to thrive in this rapidly changing environment.

According to Josh Hough, founder of home care software company CareLineLive, neurodiverse individuals may be particularly well suited to this shift.

Speaking during Neurodiversity Celebration Week, Hough highlighted that traits often associated with neurodiversity—such as pattern recognition, deep focus, and problem-solving—are becoming increasingly valuable in AI-driven workflows.

Josh Hough, founder of CareLineLive, advocates for the value of neurodiverse talent in the AI economy

Challenging Traditional Hiring Models

Hough argues that many organisations are still relying on outdated hiring frameworks.

“A lot of businesses still want people who tick every box. The reality is, people who think differently often solve problems differently.”

In an AI economy defined by constant change, adaptability and alternative thinking are becoming critical.

This marks a shift away from:

• Process-driven roles

• Standardised thinking

• Linear problem-solving

Toward a workforce that can:

• Interpret complex systems

• Identify patterns quickly

• Approach problems from new angles

Lived Experience Shapes Innovation

Hough’s perspective is shaped by his own experience.

Born with a rare muscle-weakening condition, he spent much of his early life in a wheelchair—an experience that required him to constantly adapt and rethink how to navigate everyday challenges.

“When you grow up having to do things differently, you don’t assume the standard way is the best way.”

That mindset, he says, has carried directly into how he builds and leads his company.

Building Technology Around Real-World Needs

Founded in 2014, CareLineLive develops software used by more than 700 home care providers globally, supporting over 25,000 carers.

The company focuses on improving how information flows across care systems—an area where inefficiencies can have real-world consequences.

“Too often, information doesn’t move between people in the way it should. That creates risk and wastes time.”

By prioritising clarity, communication, and accessibility, the platform reflects the same principles Hough advocates in workforce design.

Neurodiversity in an AI-Driven Workplace

As AI adoption accelerates, the nature of work is evolving.

Rather than replacing human capability, many AI systems:

• Require interpretation

• Depend on pattern recognition

• Benefit from non-linear thinking

These are areas where neurodiverse individuals may excel.

Hough believes businesses need to rethink how they define capability:

“Not everyone is going to fit a traditional mould—but that doesn’t mean they can’t be excellent at what they do.”

A Broader Shift in Workplace Thinking

The conversation around neurodiversity is moving beyond inclusion—and toward performance.

Forward-looking organisations are beginning to recognise that:

• Cognitive diversity can drive innovation

• Different thinking styles can improve outcomes

• Inclusion is not just ethical—it’s strategic

In the context of AI, this shift may become even more pronounced.

Conclusion

As the AI economy continues to evolve, so too must the way organisations think about talent.

Josh Hough’s perspective highlights a simple but powerful idea:

The future of work may belong to those who think differently.

And for businesses willing to adapt, that represents not a challenge—but a competitive advantage.

The post Rethinking Talent for the AI Economy appeared first on Tech Trends.

A surge in funding is not only creating more unicorns—it’s reshaping which technologies define the next wave of global innovation.

AI Leads a Record-Breaking Year

Venture capital is on track for a record year in 2026, with artificial intelligence startups already attracting over $220 billion in funding globally by March—nearly matching the total raised across all sectors in 2025.

According to new analysis from BestBrokers, this surge is rapidly transforming the unicorn landscape. So far this year, 47 startups have crossed the $1 billion valuation threshold, officially joining the unicorn club.

AI companies account for the largest share of these new entrants, representing roughly a quarter of all new unicorns—by far the dominant sector.

A New Unicorn Landscape

The data highlights how concentrated this growth has become.

Breakdown of new unicorns by sector:

• AI — 25.5% (12 companies)

• HealthTech — 12.8% (6 companies)

• Cloud & Infrastructure — 8.5% (4 companies)

• Semiconductors — 6.4% (3 companies)

• Cybersecurity — 6.4% (3 companies)

• SpaceTech — 6.4% (3 companies)

• Cryptocurrency — 6.4% (3 companies)

• Other sectors — 27.7% (13 companies)

This distribution shows that while AI dominates, there is also strong investor appetite for the infrastructure and adjacent technologies required to support it.

AI leads the share of new unicorns formed in 2026, followed by HealthTech and Cloud Infrastructure

The Most Valuable New Entrants

Among the newly minted unicorns, AI companies are not just the most numerous—they are also the most valuable.

Leading the group is California-based humans&, which reached a valuation of $4.5 billion, backed by major investors including NVIDIA, GV, Emerson Collective, and SV Angel.

Other standout companies include:

• Ricursive Intelligence (AI) — $4.0B

• Rain (Crypto & Blockchain) — $1.9B

• Bedrock Robotics (Robotics) — $1.8B

• Roark Aerospace (DefenseTech) — $1.8B

• Pomelo Care (HealthTech) — $1.7B

This reinforces a broader trend: AI is commanding both volume and valuation leadership.

AI startups dominate the top valuations among new unicorn companies in 2026

The Geography of Innovation

The geographic concentration of unicorn creation is equally striking.

• United States — 36 companies

• China — 3 companies

• United Kingdom — 2 companies

• Others — spread across Bahrain, Israel, Sweden, Australia, Belgium, and Singapore

The dominance of the U.S. reflects its continued strength in venture capital, AI research, and startup ecosystems.

Building the AI Economy

One of the most important insights from the data is that investment is not limited to AI applications alone.

As BestBrokers analyst Alan Goldberg notes:

“The current boom is as much about building the foundations of the AI economy as it is about the models themselves.”

This is reflected in strong funding for:

• Cloud infrastructure

• Semiconductors

• Cybersecurity

• Robotics

Together, these sectors form the backbone of scalable AI systems.

What This Means for the Market

The 2026 unicorn wave suggests a structural shift in how capital is being deployed.

Key takeaways:

• AI is now the primary driver of new unicorn creation

• Investors are backing full-stack ecosystems, not just applications

• Infrastructure is emerging as a parallel investment priority

• Geographic concentration remains high, particularly in the U.S.

This indicates that the current cycle is not just hype—it is a coordinated build-out of long-term technological capacity.

Conclusion

The latest unicorn data paints a clear picture: AI is not just leading the market—it is redefining it.

With record levels of funding and a growing ecosystem of supporting technologies, the next generation of billion-dollar companies is being built around AI at every layer.

The question now is not whether AI will dominate the next wave of innovation—but how broadly that dominance will extend across industries.

The post Tracking New Unicorn Growth appeared first on Tech Trends.

A move away from AI copyright exemptions puts licensing at the center of how creators and developers will coexist.

A Policy U-Turn on AI and Copyright

The UK government has published its latest Copyright and AI report, marking a notable shift in direction on one of the most contested issues in the AI economy.

Earlier proposals that would have allowed AI developers to train models on copyrighted works under an opt-out system have now been dropped. Instead, the government is prioritizing a framework that:

• Supports fair payment for creators

• Enhances transparency in AI training data

• Promotes responsible AI innovation

The decision reflects strong pushback from the UK’s creative industries, which argued that broad copyright exceptions would undermine their ability to control and monetize their work.

Licensing Takes Center Stage

At the heart of the new direction is a growing emphasis on licensing as the primary mechanism for enabling AI development while protecting intellectual property.

Tom West, CEO of Publishers’ Licensing Services (PLS), welcomed the shift, highlighting that licensing infrastructure is already in place and actively evolving.

“There is no market failure… a dynamic licensing market for the use of content in AI has developed and continues to grow.”

This signals a broader industry consensus: rather than rewriting copyright law for AI, the focus should be on scaling existing market-based solutions.

A Market Already in Motion

PLS recently launched the first phase of a collective licensing solution specifically designed for AI use cases. Introduced at the London Book Fair, the initiative aims to:

• Provide AI developers with legal access to high-quality content

• Ensure creators are paid fairly

• Maintain control over how content is used

Early feedback suggests strong interest from publishers and industry stakeholders, with adoption already underway.

This reinforces the argument that the market is adapting organically, without the need for disruptive legal exemptions.

Why the Copyright Exception Was Dropped

The government’s earlier proposal—a copyright exception with an opt-out—was widely criticized for several reasons:

Key concerns included:

• Loss of control for creators

• Reduced revenue opportunities

• Increased legal ambiguity

• Disproportionate advantage for large AI firms

Critics argued that such an approach would effectively shift value away from creators and toward AI developers, without adequate safeguards.

By stepping back from this model, the government is acknowledging that innovation and protection are not mutually exclusive.

What Comes Next

While the report provides direction, several key areas remain under development:

Expected next steps:

• Greater transparency requirements around AI training data

• Clear labelling of AI-generated content

• Rules governing digital replicas

• Support mechanisms for smaller creators

• Continued investment in the UK AI sector

These measures aim to create a more balanced ecosystem—one that fosters innovation while maintaining trust and accountability.

A Defining Moment for Creative Industries

This policy shift could have long-term implications far beyond the UK.

If licensing becomes the dominant model globally, it would:

• Strengthen the economic position of creators

• Encourage higher-quality AI training data

• Establish clearer rules of engagement between industries

It also signals that governments are increasingly cautious about introducing sweeping legal changes in response to AI—especially when market solutions are already emerging.

Conclusion

The UK’s revised stance on AI and copyright marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of both industries.

By prioritizing licensing over exemptions, the government is betting on a model that aligns incentives rather than disrupts them.

The challenge now will be execution: ensuring that licensing systems scale effectively, remain accessible, and deliver real value to both creators and AI developers.

If successful, this approach could become a blueprint for balancing innovation with ownership in the age of AI.

The post Rethinking AI Copyright Rules appeared first on Tech Trends.

From response times to emoji use, your texting behavior may be quietly defining your dating success.

The Rise of Text-Based Dating Signals

Texting has become the front line of modern dating. Before a first date—or even a phone call—your messaging style sets the tone.

A new quiz developed by Flirtcam.AI explores how small habits—like how quickly you reply or how you end a conversation—can influence how others perceive you.

As dating increasingly shifts into digital-first interactions, these micro-behaviors matter more than ever.

The Five-Question Texting Quiz

The quiz (provided in the PR materials ) focuses on five core behaviors:

• Response time

• Handling flirty messages

• Ending conversations

• Emoji usage

• Managing fading conversations

Each answer falls into three categories:

• A: Confident, engaged communicator

• B: Balanced, thoughtful responder

• C: Avoidant or inconsistent texter

What Your Results Say About You

Texting Pro (Mostly A’s)

You’re responsive, engaging, and emotionally attuned.

• Conversations feel natural and enjoyable

• You signal interest clearly

• Others rarely feel uncertain about where they stand

This style tends to create stronger early connections and momentum.

Casual Conversationalist (Mostly B’s)

You strike a balance between engagement and independence.

• Thoughtful but not overly reactive

• Reliable without being intense

• Consistent, but not always exciting

This style builds trust over time, even if it lacks immediate spark.

Ghoster Alert (Mostly C’s)

You may unintentionally create confusion or disengagement.

• Delayed or missing responses

• Conversations fade without closure

• Avoidance of difficult or awkward exchanges

While often unintentional, this pattern is one of the biggest frustrations in modern dating.

Why Texting Habits Matter More Than You Think

According to Flirtcam.AI’s dating expert Sam Mann:

“The way you communicate over text shapes how people perceive you long before you meet in person.”

In other words, texting isn’t just communication—it’s impression management.

Small signals like:

• Timing

• Tone

• Consistency

…can determine whether a connection builds—or disappears.

Where AI Companions Enter the Picture

One of the more interesting angles in this release is the role of AI companions in improving communication skills.

AI-powered platforms like Flirtcam.AI allow users to:

• Practice conversations in a low-pressure environment

• Experiment with tone, humor, and timing

• Build confidence without fear of rejection

• Learn how to exit conversations gracefully

This positions AI not just as entertainment—but as a behavioral training tool.

AI as “Dating Rehearsal”

The concept is simple but powerful:

• No judgment

• No stakes

• Unlimited practice

For users who struggle with:

• Overthinking replies

• Avoiding conversations

• Misreading tone

AI companions can act as a safe rehearsal space.

Over time, this can translate into more confident and effective real-world communication.

The Bigger Trend: Emotional Skill-Building via AI

This quiz reflects a broader shift in how AI is being used:

• Not just for productivity

• But for social and emotional development

We’re seeing AI tools increasingly help users:

• Improve communication

• Build confidence

• Navigate complex social dynamics

Dating is simply one of the most relatable use cases.

Conclusion: Your Texting Style Is a Signal—Not a Fixed Trait

The key takeaway isn’t labeling yourself—it’s recognizing patterns.

Your texting habits:

• Can be improved

• Can be practiced

• Can evolve

And increasingly, AI may play a role in helping people become better communicators in a digital-first world.

The post Improving Texting in Dating appeared first on Tech Trends.

Experts say cryptographic verification may be a more effective long-term solution than trying to detect manipulated content after it spreads

As generative artificial intelligence becomes more powerful, online platforms are facing an escalating challenge: how to detect and prevent convincing deepfake content before it spreads widely.

YouTube recently expanded its AI-powered deepfake detection systems to include additional protections for journalists and public officials. The move is part of a broader effort by major technology platforms to address the growing risks associated with synthetic media, including manipulated video, audio, and images designed to mislead audiences.

But some experts argue that relying primarily on detection tools may not be enough.

Steffan Deiss, CEO and co-founder of technology firm The Hashgraph Group, believes the current strategy risks becoming a never-ending arms race between generative AI systems and the tools designed to identify them.

“Deepfake detection is turning into a catch-up race Big Tech can’t win,” Deiss explains. “The AI generating fake images, video and audio is improving faster than the systems trying to catch it, and every new detection tool effectively teaches the next wave of deepfakes how to evade it.”

As generative AI models improve their ability to produce realistic media, detection systems must constantly adapt to identify new manipulation techniques. By the time platforms flag or remove misleading content, the material may already have been widely shared.

The Limits of Detection

Deepfakes have evolved rapidly over the past several years, driven by advances in generative AI systems capable of producing highly realistic video and audio.

According to research from the cybersecurity firm DeepMedia, the number of deepfake videos circulating online has grown dramatically in recent years, with synthetic media increasingly used in scams, political misinformation, and identity fraud.

Technology platforms have responded by developing AI-based detection systems designed to identify manipulated media. These tools analyze subtle inconsistencies in images, facial movements, lighting patterns, or audio signals that may reveal artificial generation.

However, as the technology improves, these indicators are becoming harder to detect.

Verifying What Is Real

Deiss argues that the industry may ultimately need to shift its focus from detecting fake content to verifying authentic content from the moment it is created.

Cryptographic verification systems could allow digital media to carry a secure record of its origin and editing history, enabling platforms and viewers to confirm whether a piece of content has been altered.

“The real solution isn’t chasing fakes after they spread — it’s proving what’s real from the start,” Deiss says.

Cryptographic technologies already underpin many parts of the internet, from secure messaging to digital identity systems. Similar techniques could potentially be applied to media content, embedding proof of authenticity directly into files as they are created.

Distributed ledger technologies, for example, can record tamper-resistant metadata about digital content, allowing platforms to verify whether a video or image has been modified since its original creation.

The Next Phase of the Deepfake Challenge

As synthetic media becomes easier to produce, the debate over how best to manage deepfakes is likely to intensify.

Some experts believe detection systems will remain essential tools, while others argue that authentication frameworks will ultimately play a larger role in protecting information ecosystems.

For platforms such as YouTube, the challenge is balancing the speed of AI innovation with safeguards that protect users from manipulated content.

Whether through improved detection, cryptographic verification, or a combination of both, the race to maintain trust in digital media is only just beginning.

The post Fighting Deepfakes on YouTube appeared first on Tech Trends.

Tech Companies Laying Off Employees in 2026

Artificial intelligence is increasingly reshaping the global technology workforce. A new analysis from RationalFX highlights which tech companies have announced the largest layoffs linked to AI and automation so far in 2026.

Artificial intelligence is increasingly reshaping the global technology workforce, and a growing number of companies are restructuring their operations around automation.

A recent analysis by personal finance and trading education platform RationalFX suggests that a significant portion of the tech sector layoffs announced so far in 2026 are directly linked to artificial intelligence adoption and organisational restructuring.

According to the report, roughly 9,238 of the 45,363 tech layoffs recorded worldwide since the start of the year — about 20% — have been tied to AI implementation and automation-driven efficiency programmes.

The data was compiled from multiple sources including U.S. WARN notices, industry reporting, and layoff trackers such as Layoffs.fyi and TrueUp.

The findings reflect a broader transformation underway across the technology sector as companies restructure around machine learning tools and automated workflows.

AI Reshaping the Tech Workforce

The impact of artificial intelligence on employment is becoming increasingly visible across industries.

According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report, advances in automation and artificial intelligence could disrupt up to 23% of jobs globally by the end of the decade, even as new technology-related roles emerge.

Similarly, research from Goldman Sachs has suggested that generative AI could affect as many as 300 million jobs worldwide, highlighting the scale of the structural shift now beginning to take shape.

Within the technology sector, companies are increasingly reorganising their workforce around AI-driven productivity tools capable of performing tasks that once required large teams.

The Companies Behind the Largest Layoffs

The RationalFX report identifies several major technology companies responsible for the largest workforce reductions linked to AI-related restructuring in 2026.

The RationalFX report highlights the companies responsible for the largest AI-related layoffs in 2026.

Artificial intelligence and automation are increasingly reshaping workforce structures across the global technology industry

The companies with the highest reported layoffs so far include:

• Block — 4,000 layoffs

• WiseTech Global — 2,000 layoffs

• Livspace — 1,000 layoffs

• eBay — 800 layoffs

• Pinterest — 675 layoffs

• ANGI Homeservices — 350 layoffs

• Oracle — 254 layoffs

• MercadoLibre — 119 layoffs

Among them, the fintech firm Block has announced the most significant cuts.

Following an earlier restructuring in 2025, the company’s leadership recently confirmed plans to reduce headcount by roughly 4,000 roles, shrinking the organisation from about 10,000 employees to approximately 6,000.

According to statements from company leadership, the decision reflects the growing capabilities of AI tools to automate tasks previously handled by large operational teams.

Automation and Organisational Restructuring

Other companies cited in the report are pursuing similar strategies.

Australian logistics software developer WiseTech Global announced plans to cut around 2,000 jobs as it shifts toward an AI-driven development model. Company executives have argued that advances in generative AI are dramatically increasing engineering productivity, reducing the need for traditional software development workflows.

Meanwhile, e-commerce platform eBay is investing heavily in artificial intelligence systems designed to automate product listings, pricing optimisation, and customer-service processes.

Social media platform Pinterest has also announced layoffs affecting roughly 15% of its workforce, describing the move as part of an “AI-forward strategy” that prioritises machine learning products and infrastructure.

A Structural Shift in the Tech Economy

While layoffs have been a recurring feature of the technology industry for decades, analysts increasingly see the current wave as part of a deeper structural transition.

Companies are not simply cutting costs — they are reorganising around AI-enabled systems that can handle tasks once performed by human employees.

As artificial intelligence continues to improve productivity across areas such as software development, customer service, data analysis, and content generation, the nature of many technology roles is likely to change.

For economists and business leaders alike, the question is no longer whether artificial intelligence will reshape the workforce, but how quickly that transformation will unfold.

The post Tech Companies Laying Off Employees in 2026 appeared first on Tech Trends.

From Yummy cakes and chocolates to luxurious skincare, and practical luggage to a wonderful way to preserve and share your digital memories, this post has something for everyone. And don’t forget, Valentine’s is not just for your spouse/significant other. It’s for saying “I love you” to anybody who matters in your life!

Heirloom Video Books

Share the best gift of all, the gift of happy memories! Heirloom video books fit up to 20 minutes of your personalized video. Fill it with your memories, and with special videos made by friends and family. Each video book features a 5” HD screen with a speaker wrapped in a hardcover book. Simply open the book to play the crisp, high-quality video. Heirloom video books do not require any special tech, wifi, or internet to use.

Heirloom is your one-stop destination for preserving and sharing treasured memories with premium video books.
Embrace the modern way of sending heartfelt wishes with our digital greeting cards, ensuring your messages, memories and milestones are delivered in a unique keepsake to your loved ones.

Each Heirloom book comes with a fully rechargeable battery and is made to last.

Available on sendheirloom.com Amazon, Walmart, The Paper Store, Etsy and Maisonette

Price: 10-Minute Book $49, 20-Minute Book $69, Add a gift box for $12!

These books combine the best of both worlds, allowing you to enjoy your digital memories as well as the tactile joy of leafing through a photo album. Heirloom is a physical book that plays your videos when the cover is opened — just provide your video and Heirloom loads it to your book and can even ship it directly to your loved one.
Heirloom loads your book with your videos and ships it directly to you or your loved one.
The bundle Includes:

• 5″ HD screen (charger included)
• Already loaded with up to 10 or 20 min of video
• Add a personal message inside the cover
• Pick from 16 different cover designs
• Expedited shipping available

Buy it now here.

Graydon Skincare

We adore the Love Your Skin bundle from Graydon Skincare

It usually retails at $110 but is currently on offer at $89, which is fantastic value for what you get. From an exfoliating sponge for smooth skin to a pink-colored facial cleanser to a tinted moisturizer with a face glow. The bundle includes:

o Aloe Milk Cleanser
o Face Glow Tinted Moisturizer
o Bamboo Charcoal Sponge

Graydon Skincare is a Toronto-based vegan and non-toxic beauty brand focused on feeding your skin from the outside in with superfood ingredients! Whether it’s a self-care day or showering your partner with love, give the gift of Love Your Skin Bundle!

Each product is chosen to enhance your beauty regimen and leave you feeling positively radiant. Share the love or treat yourself – because everyone deserves the gift of beautiful, healthy skin. The Aloe Milk Cleanser helps to minimize pores and wrinkles and brightens with niacinamide, black tea, and vitamin-rich ingredients. Face Glow promotes elasticity, highlights with sustainably sourced mica, and protects with zinc. The Bamboo Charcoal sponge cleanses and exfoliates, leaving your skin refreshed and rejuvenated. Elevate your skincare routine with this curated collection, embracing the benefits of nature for a luminous, youthful glow.

Shop for this fantastic bundle and other great skincare products here.

Beatrice Bakery

For a yummy treat with a unique and decadent flavor, the milk chocolate-covered fruit cake squares are a must! Trust me, even if you’re not a fruitcake fan (and I know there are many of you out there) these are very likely to convert you! Available for $38.95 for a tin of 18.

Their recipe dates back to 1917 and has been a beloved tradition ever since. The handmade goodness was first introduced by two German brothers, who discovered a family fruitcake recipe in their grandmother’s cookbook. The recipe took off, and the Lantz brothers soon found themselves searching for a bigger facility to produce their grandmother’s recipe. In 1964, their search took them to Beatrice, Nebraska, and the current facility.

The Nebraska bakery changed names and ownership several times before becoming nationally known as Beatrice Bakery Co in 2002. Despite the changes, the original fruitcake recipe remained the same.

But even if you don’t want to commit to the fruitcake, they have plenty of other yummy options, such as their premium Chocolate Rum Ring is packed with a premium blend of cocoa and dark rum. The additional injection process makes this liqueur cake a, for sure powerhouse! 6-ounce ring box Serving: 6-10 $18.36

Shop the full delicious range here.

Otamatone – Japan’s Favorite Musical Toy

If your partner has a silly side and also likes a tune then we can’t recommend highly enough this insane little musical toy from our nutty friends in Japan.

Only the Japanese could come up with a toy like this that will keep adults and kids entertained for ages trying to mimic their favorite songs while looking like fools. We tried out the Special Lucky Cat Otamatone which mimics the famous waving lucky cats you see in Japanese shops and restaurants.

• SPECIAL LUCKY CAT EDITION – Everyone’s favorite Vocaloid – virtual superstar Hatsune Miku – meets Japan’s favorite musical toy in this adorable special edition Otamatone!
• BEST SELLER – One of Japan’s Best-Selling Musical Instruments / Portable Synthesizer Toys!
• FUN & EASY TO PLAY – Slide your fingers along the stem to vary the pitch and squeeze the cheeks for vibrato
• CREATE YOUR OWN SOUND – Play in a low, medium, or high pitch – get together with friends and create harmony!
• GREAT FOR ALL AGES – Kids, teens, and adults all love the Otamatone! Whether you’re brand new to music or an expert musician, the
• Otamatone offers a fun, silly new way to make music!

It is too hard to explain how to ‘play’ the Otamatone but watch this hilarious video explainer to learn more about the potential of the Otamatone and how to play it. Trust us, you just need one of these in your life!

Pick up the exact Otamatone we tested for $38.99 here. This is a reduced price at the time of publication. Trust me, you would have to be the world’s most boring person to not enjoy this ridiculous little musical toy!

AWAKE Chocolate

For those of you who love coffee and chocolate (and if you don’t what’s wrong with you?) we heartily recommend this cute and delicious AWAKE Variety Pack which features milk, peanut butter, and caramel flavors at a very reasonable $34.99.

AWAKE Chocolates limited edition variety pack is the perfect gift for teachers, nurses, and parents (pretty much anyone who has a busy life!) AWAKE chocolate offers 50mg of caffeine per bite-size piece, and comes in PB, milk Chocolate and caramel flavors, yum!
Variety is the spice of life, friends. Put a pep in your step with a mix of our beloved Caramel, Peanut Butter and Milk Chocolate Bites, all in a fun Valentine’s Day themed pouch!

• Individually wrapped for on-the-go convenience
• 50mg of caffeine per bite to fight tired with delicious
• Premium fairtrade chocolate

Shop at awakechocolate.com (also available on Amazon).

Sugar Bowl Bakery

Another great option to say ” I love you” with delicious sweeties is the Sugar Bowl Bakery. Satisfy your sweet tooth with Sugarbowl’s famed Palmiers (only $9.99), or browse their extensive range for other ideas (we LOVED their madeleines)!

Not only are their treats yummy, but you can feel good about supporting a minority- and family-owned and operated bakery, founded in 1984 in San Francisco by five Vietnamese brothers in pursuit of the American dream.

Their bakery was honored in 2013 by President Barack Obama who shared it as an example of a successful immigration story. He said “That’s what America is about. This is the place where you can reach for something better if you work hard.”
Today, Sugar Bowl Bakery is one of the largest, certified minority-owned bakeries in America and is proud to deliver high-quality desserts at affordable prices to top retailers and food service companies across the US – and the globe.

Explore the full range here.

Island Hopper Travel Backpack

The Island Hopper travel backpack is the last backpack you’ll buy! Designed for comfort, with the perfect amount of space for your clothes, cameras, toiletries, computer, and more! It’s the best carry-on luggage choice to keep you traveling light while still being well-prepared. Designed for comfort, with the perfect space for your clothes, cameras, toiletries, computer, and more, this is the perfect backpack to take on your adventures!

Features include:

• The best carry-on luggage choice to keep you traveling light while still well-prepared.
• Premium YKK water-resistant zippers
• Padded waist support belt to distribute heavy loads off the shoulders, with small zipper pockets on each side
• Well within the carry-on size allowance, but with the 40L capacity leaves lots of room to pack all your essentials safely
• Luggage style opening with easy access, shock-resistant padded laptop side pocket (up to 16″) makes clearing TSA a breeze
• Super lightweight at only 2.1 lbs
• Premium YKK Zippers
• Now with a padded waist belt to distribute heavy loads off your shoulders
• Lifetime guarantee!
•  Waist belt features small zipper pockets on each side
•  Wide, padded, ergonomic shoulder straps with air-vented mesh to wick-away sweat and evenly distribute heavy loads
• Splash resistant zippers and extra large zipper buckles for easy handling
• Weather-resistant TPU Exterior
• Massive space on the inside for shoes and multiple days on the road.

All of that retails for a very modest $139, shop the full range here!

Spiceology’s Luxe Infused Salt Variety Pack

Need something a little more elevated for the foodies on your gifting list? Or the budding flavor seekers and experimental mixologists? This gift set is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with flavors like Sriracha, Jalapeno, and Black Truffle, it’s the perfect variety pack to take your savory dishes, sauces, sweet truffles, and cocktails to the next level. Venture out of your comfort zone and experiment with flavor.

Elevate Your Culinary Game with the Luxe Infused Salt Variety Pack

Move over table salt. Spiceology’s Luxe Infused Salt Variety Pack transcends the usual, inviting you into a world of gourmet seasoning with flavors that are both distinct and memorable.

The Craft Behind Flavored Salts

Making homemade flavored salts isn’t just about combining ingredients; it’s an art. By using a combination of herbs, citrus zest, and other gourmet ingredients, Spiceology crafts a palette of infused salts that effortlessly elevate any dish.

Have you ever tried making flavored salts at home? Perhaps on a baking sheet, experimenting with various flavor combinations? It’s a delicious idea. Yet, it demands precision and patience. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you, ensuring each grain of salt is perfectly infused.

Why Our Luxe Infused Salts Stand Out

While many are familiar with coarse salt varieties like maldon salt or rosemary salt, Spiceology is bringing you six different and innovative flavor infusions. . Each salt in our variety pack offers a unique flavor profile. From the warmth of smoked paprika to the earthy notes of thyme, there’s a flavor for every culinary enthusiast.

And for those who seek the pop of peppers, our Jalapeño salt, made from the finest jalapeno powder, offers just the right amount of heat. Yet it’s not just about the spice. With our Luxe pack, you can experience the rich aroma of Black Truffle or the boldness of Ground Espresso.

Don’t settle for the monotony of regular table salt when the world of flavored salts is waiting. And while many are content with just citrus or herb infusions, Spiceology wants you to experiment with new flavors.

A Perfect Gift for the Culinary Enthusiast

Considering flavored salts as a gift? Whether you’re gifting it to a seasoned chef or a home cook eager to experiment, our Luxe Infused Salt Variety Pack offers an array of delicious flavor combinations. Every pinch from our Luxe Infused Salt pack promises an experience, whether you’re seasoning a steak, sprinkling over a salad, or experimenting with mixology. So, venture beyond the known and taste the magic of expertly crafted infused salts.

So if you’re looking for the perfect gift for the boujee foodie partner, look no further than Spiceology’s Luxe Infused Salt Variety Pack. With flavors from Jalapeno to Black Truffle, these salts will spice up any Valentine’s Day dinner or cocktails!

Available now for $39.95 from Amazon here and Spiceology.com

YI 2K Dome 360 Degree Smart Home Security Camera

This YI 2K Dome 360 degree security camera features 2304 x 1296 resolution, for clarity at every angle. 2K resolution makes a huge difference over HD in indoor use. Of particular note is the very good Enhanced Night Vision which, when activated, enables 8500-nm infrared lights, a high-sensitivity image sensor and an F1.9 large aperture lens. This excellent feature captures detailed images even in very low-light conditions.

This cool little camera also swivels to capture complete coverage of your home with 355° degree horizontal and 84° degree vertical rotation, resulting in virtually zero blind spots. When motion is detected the camera automatically tracks and follows the moving object recording most of the action in the room. With the built-in microphone and speaker, you can also hear the sound from the scene and speak with people on the camera side.

It is important to note that this product is sold in the anticipation you will sign up to their Kami Cloud subscription plan – full details here – which as well as storing your security footing off-site in the cloud, enables their Smart AI Detection system which can distinguish Person, Vehicle, or Animal accurately and reduce false alarms significantly. Kami Cloud offers loop recording with no storage limit, so even if your YI Home Camera is stolen or damaged, your footage will still be secure and accessible on the cloud. Download the YI Home App PC/Mac client and view up to 4 live camera feeds on one screen, wherever you are.

If you don’t want the subscription this is still a very usable device and you can store your data and recordings locally with an extra Micro SD card (not included). Please note, the Micro SD card must be formatted as FAT32. Accessing the SD card remotely via the Yi Home app on your iPhone or Android device is a cinch and the motion detection alerts work very well. You can also use the app to schedule the camera’s actions and set Home or Away presets.

Keep track of what’s happening in every room of your house or small business, and rest assured that you won’t miss anything. It is important to point out that the YI 2K Dome camera is only compatible with a 2.4GHz band network, 5GHz networks are not supported.

This camera is also compatible With Alexa and Google Assistant. You can use your voice to turn on YI camera for home security or view your camera live stream on Echo Show or any screen-based Alexa device or Google Chrome Cast. This is not a battery-powered camera so it can only be placed around the home within reach of a power socket but the included micro USB power cable is pretty long. If you don’t want to put a Micro SD in your camera you can try Kami Cloud on a one-month free trial accessed via the app once you set up a new Yi device.

Available at the time of publishing on Amazon.com for a reduced $28.99.

Arterra – Advanced Veterinarian-Formulated Dog Supplements

If you share the love of your other half with a doggy competitor, then a gift of these high-end scientifically formulated dog supplements might make everyone in your complicated relationship happy this Valentine’s and leave no one left out!

The world’s most advanced dog supplement. Defining a new standard in canine supplements to help dogs live happy, healthy, and long lives

Senior Support Supplement

We tried out their Senior Support Supplement for dogs 8+ years. Arterra claims this is the most comprehensive dog supplement ever made, featuring the best science-backed ingredients in their optimal forms and strengths. Designed to give you more time together, this senior formula focuses on your dog’s longevity, enhancing their quality of life and helping to turn back the clock to give you more time together.

Designed to give you more time together. Our senior formula focuses on your dog’s longevity, enhancing their quality of life, and helping to turn back the clock.

We can’t yet testify to the life-lengthening powers of this easy-to-use powder but it was devoured with glee by our hungry hounds and the list of health-boosting ingredients is impressive and surely must improve the nutrition your dog gets when mixed with its regular food.

• Formulated by board-certified veterinarians
• 63 Active ingredients
• 100% Filler-free
• Natural bacon flavor that dogs love!
• Made in the USA
• Backed by our 100% results you can see guarantee

Remineralizing Toothpaste

We also tested Arterra’s Remineralizing Doggy Toothpaste and can attest that a few sessions of teeth cleaning with this tasty toothpaste has improved our dogs’ breath. The peanut butter flavor really helped get them interested in the cleaning and made the job a lot easier, but watch out as they did try to eat the toothbrush. I guess it was just too yummy!

The world’s first remineralizing toothpaste for dogs. Featuring advanced nano-hydroxyapatite technology. It doesn’t just clean, it repairs.

Most dog breeds are more prone to periodontal (gum) disease than tooth decay and dogs with bad breath is a price we pay, but regular teeth brushing can make a big difference. While all breeds will benefit from teeth cleaning, many breeds are particularly cavity-prone and may especially benefit from this novel Remineralizing Toothpaste.

• Veterinarian grade toothpaste.
• Remineralizes teeth to reverse early-stage tooth decay
• Removes plaque and tartar
• Cleans and maintains healthy gums
• Plant-based, hypoallergenic, and non-toxic
• Naturally Peanut Butter flavored
• Made in the USA

Check out Arterra’s prices and subscription offers here and keep you furry friend healthy for as long as possible.

The post Tech Trends Valentines Gift Guide appeared first on Tech Trends.