URL: NPR

Technology News

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

• What does TikTok's new ownership mean for users in the U.S.?
  Since news about TikTok finalizing a deal to spin-off its U.S. operations became public, users have questioned what U.S. ownership of the app means for them.
  
• In China, AI is no longer optional for some kids. It's part of the curriculum
  While debate rages in the U.S. about the merits and risks of AI in schools, it's become a state-mandated part of the curriculum in China, as the authorities try to create a pool of AI-savvy professionals.
  
• Meta and YouTube head to trial over harm to children after TikTok settles
  A trial kicking off in a Los Angeles courtroom marks the first time a jury will hear claims that social media companies knowingly hook young users and cause harm.
  
• TikTok is investigating why some users can't write 'Epstein' in messages
  The issue around the word "Epstein" comes as users experience outages and functionality problems since the popular video app was recently sold to a group of mostly U.S. investors, including Trump ally Larry Ellison.
  

Sunday, January 25, 2026

• Why the latest iPhone update is leaving ordinary users and tech experts grumbling
  NPR's Ayesha Rascoe speaks to digital writer Patrick Holland about why some iPhone users dislike the latest iOS update.
  

Friday, January 23, 2026

• Gladys West, mathematician whose work paved the way for GPS, dies at 95
  A self-described "little farm girl" in the Jim Crow Era, Gladys West's complex and pioneering work for the U.S. Navy helped to improve billions of lives — and keep us from getting lost.
  
• The Trump administration admits even more ways DOGE accessed sensitive personal data
  New court documents reveal even more ways DOGE improperly accessed and shared sensitive personal data last year — and how that data appears to have been used to advance dubious fraud claims.
  

Thursday, January 22, 2026

• TikTok finalizes deal to form new American entity
  TikTok has finalized a deal to create a new American entity, avoiding the looming threat of a ban in the United States that has been in discussion for years.
  

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

• Are 'passkeys' better than passwords? This security expert says yes
  Has your phone been prompting you for months to log into certain sites with a "passkey"? Security writer Kim Key of PC Mag explains why you might want to ditch your passwords in favor of passkeys.
  

Sunday, January 18, 2026

• Do phone sleep trackers work?
  Are sleep trackers on your phone helping you get a full night's rest? NPR's Life Kit investigates.