YouTube relaxes monetization guidelines for some controversial topics
These controversial topics include self-harm, abortion, suicide, and domestic and sexual abuse.
Apps
Bluesky rolls out cashtags and LIVE badges amid a boost in app installs
Bluesky adds new features to its app amid a boost in installs due to the deepfake drama on X.
The rise of ‘micro’ apps: non-developers are writing apps instead of buying them
A new era of app creation is here. It’s fun, it’s fast, and it’s fleeting.
Natural Cycles launches wristband to replace thermometers for its FDA-cleared birth control app
Natural Cycles, the company behind a controversial FDA-cleared birth control app, is replacing its thermometer with a wristband that measures skin temperature, heart rate, and movement during sleep. The newly-launched wristband costs $129.99 and syncs with the Natural Cycles app, which uses an algorithm to determine a person’s “daily fertility status.” Users can already track […]
Spotify raises its subscription prices in the U.S. again
Spotify’s new price for its individual plan is $12.99 per month
After Italy, WhatsApp excludes Brazil from rival chatbot ban
WhatsApp is allowing AI providers to continue offering their chatbots to users in Brazil, days after the country’s competition agency ordered the company to suspend its new policy that bars third-party, general-purpose chatbots from the app.
Netflix’s first original video podcasts feature Pete Davidson and Michael Irvin
As Netflix tries to take down YouTube’s dominance in the podcast space, it’s getting new originals with Pete Davidson and Michael Irvin.
App downloads declined again in 2025, but consumer spending soared to nearly $156B
Global app downloads were down, but consumer spending was up to nearly $156B in 2025.
Civilization VII is coming to Apple Arcade
Sid Meier’s Civilization VII is headed to the Apple Arcade on February 5th, allowing you to play the strategy game across your iPhone, iPad, or Mac through the company’s $6.99 / month subscription. The game has the same premise as the original PC title, where you’re tasked with expanding your empire as historic leaders from […]