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 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 […]

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.

Google’s Trends Explore page gets new Gemini capabilities 

The Trends Explore page for users to analyze search interest just got a major upgrade. It now uses Gemini to identify and compare relevant trends.

Civilization VII is coming to Apple Arcade
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 […]

Gemini’s new beta feature provides proactive responses based on your photos, emails, and more

Personal Intelligence is off by default, as users have the option to choose if and when they want to connect their Google apps to Gemini.