News and reviews on apps, devices, wearables and AI assistants redefining daily life. Track how consumer technology blends hardware, software and intelligent services to create more personalised, connected and convenient experiences for users. This category highlights trends influencing how people communicate, shop, work and play.
Google introduced the Universal Commerce Protocol, an open standard for agentic commerce, enabling AI-driven shopping, checkout, and branded agent interactions across retailers and platforms.
X restricted Grok’s AI image-generation feature to paying subscribers following global criticism over non-consensual sexualized images of women and children. The move does not affect the standalone Grok app.
PayPal and Microsoft are integrating checkout and payments directly into Copilot, allowing users to discover products and complete purchases without leaving the AI interface. The rollout begins on Copilot.com and expands PayPal’s agentic commerce strategy.
Google is rolling out Gemini-powered features in Gmail to help users summarize emails, generate replies, and prioritize messages. The updates aim to improve productivity as email volumes continue to rise.
The European Commission instructed X to retain internal documents and data linked to its Grok AI chatbot through 2026. The order follows concerns over illegal content and platform compliance under EU rules.
AI commerce startup Spangle raised $15 million in a Series A, valuing the company at $100 million. Its software delivers real-time, personalized shopping experiences for retailers using AI-generated recommendations.
Ford announced an AI assistant for its smartphone app, set to expand to vehicles in 2027. The company also previewed a next-generation BlueCruise system capable of eyes-off driving by 2028.
OpenAI introduced ChatGPT Health, a dedicated experience that securely integrates personal health data with AI, helping users navigate wellness, lab results, and appointments with added privacy protections.
Lenovo introduced its AI Glasses Concept, offering AI-powered controls, live translation, and multi-device integration. The wearable combines productivity and entertainment in a lightweight design.
Amazon’s “Shop Direct” and “Buy for Me” features are drawing criticism from online retailers whose products were listed without consent, raising concerns about AI-driven sales practices.
Lenovo introduced Qira, a system-level AI spanning PCs, tablets, smartphones, and wearables. The assistant offers context-aware, cross-device intelligence for writing, collaboration, and workflow management.
California Senator Steve Padilla introduced legislation to pause sales of AI-powered chatbot toys for minors. The proposal aims to give regulators time to establish child safety standards.
Beyond major product launches, CES 2026 is highlighting a wave of unconventional AI-powered devices, from holographic assistants to robotic pets and smart kitchen tools. The gadgets reflect how artificial intelligence is moving into niche consumer applications.
Amazon has launched Alexa.com, bringing its AI-powered Alexa+ assistant to the web and mobile app, enabling family-focused tasks, smart home control, and content creation online.
Samsung unveiled its “Companion to AI Living” vision at CES 2026, highlighting AI-powered TVs, appliances, and health devices designed to enhance daily life through connected experiences.