Tech
Why age-verification payments for porn web sites couldn’t work
Published
3 years agoon

Age-verification payments pose a privateness risk, consultants verbalize.
Credit rating: Bob Al-Greene / Mashable
Whenever you have not noticed, free expression online is currently beneath attack. From the proposed TikTok ban to hearings on Part 230 (which protects social platforms from being accountable for what customers put up), some U.S. lawmakers are concentrating on win entry to to free and birth web.
Current age-verification payments are any other iteration of this. These authorized guidelines require of us to show proof of age to specialize in grownup insist — or, in some variations, to gape social media at all. Consultants warn that these payments threaten digital privateness and free speech.
What are age-verification payments?
Final three hundred and sixty five days, Louisiana passed Act 440(Opens in a recent tab), which requires guests to web sites with over 33.33 p.c of grownup insist to use a commercial age-verification draw (AVS) to brand they’re over 18, a lot like with a government-issued ID. The law went into close on Jan. 1, 2023.
An influx of same payments cropped up at some level of the country afterwards. Utah’s SB 287(Opens in a recent tab), which requires a commercial AVS for web sites that include “a substantial allotment of enviornment subject that will presumably well moreover be heinous to minors” has been signed into law and can scramble into close on Could perhaps well moreover simply 2. (Utah has also passed two other payments, SB 152(Opens in a recent tab) and HB 311(Opens in a recent tab), which requires age verification for all customers on social media web sites(Opens in a recent tab); parental permission to win entry to social media for these beneath 18; and social media curfews for beneath-18s. These are speculated to transfer into close in March 2024, nonetheless social media platforms are expected to scenario these authorized guidelines beforehand).
Copycats of the Louisiana law include also passed in Virginia(Opens in a recent tab), Mississippi(Opens in a recent tab), and Arkansas(Opens in a recent tab) as well, nonetheless include but to be signed. Such payments were introduced forward in other states too, fancy Texas and Arizona. The Free Speech Coalition, a porn industrial foyer neighborhood, has compiled a tracker of age-verification payments(Opens in a recent tab).
In the UK, same rules that called for age-verification on porn web sites, is named the “porn block,” failed in 2019. Final three hundred and sixty five days, the UK government revisited the foundation, with critics saying it can presumably well pickle off a “slippery slope” for censorship.
The downsides to “porn passport” authorized guidelines
While these payments could presumably well moreover before the full lot appear sound — no one needs adolescents to win entry to grownup insist — the consultants verbalize that they couldn’t work, and can pickle off a complete lot of concerns.
Relating to the ancient, these statutes are refined to connect into attach and straightforward to win around. For one, there are going to be web sites essentially based mostly in other worldwide locations that will not regulate to these rules, said Mike Stabile, director of public affairs at the Free Speech Coalition. “My ideal apprehension after I looked at [these bills] was once that this is…going to push adolescents to more and more dreadful web sites,” he said.
For any other, machine fancy VPNs (virtual privateness networks) are built to compose it appear fancy the client is somewhere they aren’t. Days after the Louisiana law went into close, a Redditor asked if they are able to use a VPN(Opens in a recent tab) to win around it. “Yep,” the pinnacle comment be taught. “So easy a five three hundred and sixty five days dilapidated can attain it.”
Previous enforceability, consultants verbalize they pickle off a worthy privateness risk.
“The quick concerns are that there could be not a foolproof age-verification draw that isn’t intrusive, comprehensive, efficient, and could presumably well also be supplied instant,” said Jason Kelley, affiliate director of digital intention at the Digital Frontier Foundation, a nonprofit centered on defending digital rights. Since there don’t seem to be programs in dwelling to place in power these rules, tech firms will trudge to acknowledge these authorized guidelines. They could well presumably perhaps moreover attain the accurate component, or the imperfect component unintentionally, fancy pickle up an AVS that is scared because they do not know how AVS’s work, or they could presumably well moreover attain the imperfect component intentionally to web up of us’s info.
“You assemble this complete ecosystem, the build of us’s particular particular person behaviors — the web sites that they seek the suggestion of with — could presumably well moreover moreover be tracked and connected to their id,” Kelley continued. “We’re essentially increasing this quick requirement for of us to section their non-public info alongside their pornography desire with firms that attach not essentially include a tool in dwelling to present protection to that info.”
A longer-timeframe enviornment is that there will be a domino close, which is already taking place with the copycat payments. If they were all to pass, Kelley said we would include an especially refined draw the build utterly different states settle for utterly different kinds of verification, which could presumably well moreover result in these web sites requiring verification from everybody no subject converse to make certain they comply.
Extra, payments fancy Utah’s SB 152 and HB 311 aim social media for your complete, and would fundamentally swap the web. A bunch of states are following suit: A proposal in Ohio(Opens in a recent tab), as an example, would require parental permission for adolescents to study in not reliable for Facebook and YouTube, nonetheless “any online web web page, online carrier, online product, or online feature that requires client consent to register, test in, or in any other case assemble a extraordinary username.”
“The close result’s that we couldn’t include win entry to that is nameless to mighty of the web,” Kelley said of these flurry of age-verification payments, “which is essential with out cost speech” and other issues, fancy privateness protection. If all these payments went into close, many of us wouldn’t be in a dwelling to win entry to the web at all with out an ID. As it’s, there’s a “digital divide” the build millions of People have not got an ample web connection at dwelling; verification would most appealing exacerbate this enviornment of win entry to. While of us who attain include IDs could presumably well moreover win via these boundaries, they could ought to quit anonymity to attain so.
If all these payments went into close, many of us wouldn’t be in a dwelling to win entry to the web at all with out an ID, and these that will presumably well moreover win entry to would ought to create documentation.
That’s not the accurate doable enviornment. As senior security analyst Max Eddy(Opens in a recent tab) at PCMag (which is owned by Ziff Davis, Mashable’s mother or father firm) warned, id theft could presumably well moreover amplify in the wake of these authorized guidelines(Opens in a recent tab). Or not it’s already taking place: “Now we include already heard experiences of phishing happening in Louisiana, the build of us are impersonating grownup web sites, and getting of us to upload their ID after which selling these IDs…for Bitcoin,” Stabile said. “We demand that…id theft goes to skyrocket.”
Customers don’t seem to be the accurate of us impacted by these authorized guidelines, either; grownup creators are(Opens in a recent tab), too.
On-line sex workers are already pushed offline due to payments FOSTA-SESTA(Opens in a recent tab), an amendment to Part 230 supposed to quit sex-trafficking, nonetheless has resulted in the removal (or shadowbanning) of sex workers and remotely horny insist from most essential social platforms fancy Facebook and Instagram. (Only a single trafficker has been prosecuted(Opens in a recent tab) beneath FOSTA-SESTA in its first five years.) Could perhaps well moreover simply collected age-verification payments development, the topic will inevitably irritate.
“Or not it’s reliable going to censor us,” said grownup performer and imply Alana Evans. “How is it going to impress a platform fancy Twitter?” At this time, Twitter does allow grownup insist, and Evans sees it because the accurate platform that has a receive dwelling for performers — nonetheless that pickle hangs in the balance. “If Twitter decides that we are in a position to not advertise my cam links anymore” or same links, she said, “it can presumably well slay my industrial. It could well per chance presumably well slay my earnings.”
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guard adolescents from grownup insist
“I worked my butt off to take care of my adolescents far from that enviornment subject,” said Evans, who’s a mother or father. “The largest component is de facto being responsive to what your adolescents are doing in the first dwelling.” This entails checking their units and having birth conversations about sex and porn. She’s had talks alongside with her son, who’s now an grownup, the build she outlined that porn isn’t in actuality valid nonetheless moderately a “theatrical model” of sex.
“I don’t bring to mind us could presumably well moreover collected be shy of having that dialog,” Evans said. One reason young of us specialize in at porn is purely because they’re outlandish. “Whenever you happen to are having a dialog with them,” she continued, “the curiosity is taken away.”
Adore Evans, Stabile also calls on of us to be enthusiastic with their adolescents’ web taking a specialize in and to include these conversations. There’s loads of insist beyond porn that isn’t appropriate for adolescents — portrayals of violence, as an example — and it can presumably well well be not doable to present protection to adolescents from seeing any of it, nonetheless you would possibly want to presumably well presumably test with them about it.
Previous conversations, Stabile recommends machine-stage filters that block all web sites which could presumably well be registered RTA, or “Restricted to Adults.”(Opens in a recent tab) “It signals to filters, whether or not or not it’s your Apple filter or Gain Nanny or one thing fancy that, that this build could presumably well moreover collected be blocked,” he outlined. Or not it’s not relevant if a baby tries a VPN or any other workaround — the positioning will be blocked on that machine.
The inspiration at the support of these payments “isn’t imperfect,” said Evans — no one, especially these in the grownup industrial, needs adolescents staring at their insist. These payments, however, assemble dangers, and could presumably perhaps cascade into a web based privateness and censorship nightmare that hurts sex workers and other web customers.
“If even about a of them [age-verification bills] pass in utterly different contexts, this could occasionally be dreadful for all americans in america who goes online,” Kelley warned, “because we would be unable to win entry to issues privately.”
Anna Iovine is the sex and relationships reporter at Mashable, the build she covers matters ranging from relationship apps to pelvic disaster. Beforehand, she was once a social editor at VICE and freelanced for publications a lot like Slate and the Columbia Journalism Overview. Apply her on Twitter @annaroseiovine(Opens in a recent tab).
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Sahil Sachdeva is the CEO of Level Up Holdings, a Personal Branding agency. He creates elite personal brands through social media growth and top tier press features.
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Tech
OpenAI Introduces ChatGPT Health, Sparking Excitement and Data Privacy Worries
Published
3 days agoon
January 11, 2026
OpenAI has rolled out ChatGPT Health, a specialized feature enabling U.S. users to upload medical records and sync data from health apps, delivering more tailored responses from the chatbot. The company positions it as a tool to enhance health understanding, though experts and advocates have voiced significant concerns over privacy, data security, and AI’s role in healthcare.
Per OpenAI, the feature integrates data from platforms like Apple Health, Peloton, and MyFitnessPal, as well as user-provided medical documents. It aims to offer contextualized answers on health and wellness topics. Importantly, OpenAI emphasizes that this is not for diagnosing conditions or prescribing treatments and cannot substitute professional medical care.
The firm assures users that Health conversations are isolated from standard chats and excluded from AI model training. It also touts “enhanced privacy measures” to protect highly sensitive health information. Initial rollout is limited to select early testers, with a waitlist for wider availability.
Privacy campaigners, however, caution that health data demands the highest level of protection. Andrew Crawford from the Center for Democracy and Technology stressed the need for impermeable barriers separating health data from other user details, especially amid AI firms pursuing new monetization strategies, such as targeted advertising.
“Emerging AI health features hold potential to empower individuals,” Crawford noted, “yet weak safeguards could expose highly personal data to serious risks.”
This debut aligns with generative AI’s growing influence in daily life. OpenAI reports over 230 million weekly health-related queries on ChatGPT. Proponents highlight AI’s ability to clarify symptoms, explain medical jargon, and guide lifestyle decisions, particularly in overburdened healthcare systems.
Nevertheless, doubts linger about AI accuracy. Large language models can generate erroneous or misleading outputs, often with unwarranted certainty. Detractors fear users might over-rely on such guidance, despite explicit warnings.
Max Sinclair, CEO of AI marketing firm Azoma, hailed it as a “pivotal milestone” for OpenAI, suggesting the company is establishing ChatGPT as a go-to health advisor, which could transform how people research conditions and choose wellness products or therapies.
The tool is not yet available in the UK, Switzerland, or European Economic Area nations due to rigorous data privacy regulations. Analysts predict regulatory challenges could slow or restrict international expansion.
Amid heightened global oversight of AI ethics and safety, following issues like manipulated images and deepfakes—this launch underscores the dual-edged nature of AI in personalized healthcare. Its success as a reliable aid or a new ethical minefield will hinge on striking a balance between technological advancement and accountability.
Tech
UK Government Criticizes X for Limiting Grok AI Image Editing to Paid Subscribers, Labeling It ‘Insulting’ to Victims of Abuse
Published
4 days agoon
January 10, 2026
The UK government has strongly condemned Elon Musk’s platform X for restricting Grok AI’s image editing and generation features to premium subscribers, describing the change as “insulting” to victims of misogyny and sexual violence. The criticism follows widespread outrage over the AI tool’s role in producing non-consensual sexualized deepfake images, including those depicting women and children.
A spokesperson for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that the restriction fails to resolve the underlying problem and effectively monetizes a harmful feature by turning it into a “premium service.” They noted that the swift implementation shows X is capable of quick action when motivated, and called for more responsible measures to prevent abuse entirely.
The issue arose after reports that Grok complied with prompts to digitally alter photos, such as removing clothing from images of individuals without consent. Although the feature is now limited on X to paid users (requiring verified payment details), concerns persist that it may still be available via Grok’s standalone app or website.
Prime Minister Starmer called the generation of sexualized AI images of adults and children “disgraceful” and “disgusting,” vowing intolerance for such unlawful content. He pledged full backing for regulator Ofcom to enforce the Online Safety Act, with options including fines, access restrictions, or even an effective ban on X in the UK if the platform fails to comply.
Ofcom has initiated urgent inquiries and contacted X and xAI, but has not yet issued a public response on next steps. X has not commented on the latest developments.
Experts and campaigners have echoed the government’s stance. Professor Clare McGlynn highlighted the lack of proper ethical safeguards, arguing that the paywall does not eliminate risks and prioritizes profit over safety. The Internet Watch Foundation reported identifying criminal child abuse imagery apparently created by Grok, stressing that the restriction cannot reverse existing harm.
Victims, including those personally targeted, have dismissed the change as inadequate, urging a full overhaul with robust built-in protections.
This incident intensifies debates over generative AI accountability, positioning the Grok case as a critical challenge for regulating online safety in the AI era.
Health
Get Featured in TechCrunch: A Practical Guide for Startups and Technology Companies
Published
1 week agoon
January 5, 2026
For startups and technology-driven businesses, media visibility can play a decisive role in growth and credibility. Among technology publications, TechCrunch stands out as one of the most trusted sources for startup news, funding updates, and innovation trends. Many founders aim to Get Featured in TechCrunch because of its ability to influence investors, customers, and the broader tech ecosystem.
This guide explains how TechCrunch operates, what journalists look for, and how companies can responsibly prepare for editorial coverage.
Why TechCrunch Coverage Is Highly Valued
TechCrunch has built its reputation through independent reporting and in-depth analysis of emerging technologies and startup ecosystems. Its readership includes venture capitalists, founders, product leaders, and industry analysts.
A feature on TechCrunch can help companies:
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Establish authority and trust
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Attract investor and partner interest
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Increase qualified website traffic
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Strengthen brand perception within the tech community
Because of this reach and credibility, many early-stage and scaling companies strategically work toward the goal to Get Featured in TechCrunch at key moments in their growth journey.
Understanding TechCrunch’s Editorial Focu
TechCrunch is an editorial platform, not a promotional directory. Its journalists prioritize factual, timely, and industry-relevant stories that offer value to readers.
Primary Topics Covered
TechCrunch commonly reports on:
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Startup funding rounds and acquisitions
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Product launches with market impact
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Artificial intelligence and deep technology
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SaaS, fintech, Web3, and enterprise tools
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Venture capital trends and startup ecosystems
To Get Featured in TechCrunch, your announcement must align with these topics and present clear relevance to current industry developments.
What Makes a Story Newsworthy
One of the most common mistakes companies make is pitching content that lacks a genuine news angle. TechCrunch evaluates whether a story contributes meaningful insight or signals a shift in the market.
Examples of strong news angles include:
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A confirmed funding round or acquisition
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A product launch addressing a clear market gap
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Proprietary technology or original research
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Verified traction, revenue growth, or adoption metrics
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Industry disruption or operational innovation
Without a timely and factual story, it becomes difficult to Get Featured in TechCrunch, regardless of product quality.
Preparing Your Company Before Outreach
Before contacting any journalist, your company must be ready for public scrutiny. Editors frequently research brands before responding to pitches.
Essential Preparation Checklist
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A clear and informative website
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Transparent company and founder information
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Supporting data or performance metrics
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Press-ready product descriptions
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Consistent online presence
Preparation demonstrates professionalism and credibility, which significantly improves your chances to Get Featured in TechCrunch.
How to Pitch TechCrunch the Right Way
An effective pitch is concise, factual, and respectful of a journalist’s time. Editors receive a high volume of emails daily, so clarity is critical.
Key Elements of a Strong Pitch
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A precise subject line referencing the news
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A brief summary of what is happening
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Explanation of why it matters to the industry
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Verified facts, numbers, and timelines
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Optional quotes from founders or executives
Avoid exaggerated claims or marketing language. A clear, information-driven pitch is essential if you want to Get Featured in TechCrunch.
The Role of Timing in Media Coverage
Timing plays a major role in editorial decisions. Even strong stories may be declined if they are poorly timed.
Best practices include:
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Pitching before public announcements
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Coordinating with funding or launch embargoes
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Aligning with trending industry discussions
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Avoiding periods of low editorial activity
Strategic timing increases relevance and improves the likelihood to Get Featured in TechCrunch when editors are actively covering similar topics.
Direct Outreach vs. Professional PR Support
While founders can pitch independently, many companies choose to work with experienced PR professionals. Media specialists understand how to position stories and communicate with journalists effectively.
PR support can help with:
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Story framing and narrative development
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Identifying the right TechCrunch reporters
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Managing follow-ups professionally
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Reducing common pitching errors
For companies unfamiliar with media outreach, professional guidance can improve the chances to Get Featured in TechCrunch without damaging long-term media relationships.
Common Reasons TechCrunch Declines Pitche
Rejection is common and does not necessarily reflect a weak product. Most rejections are based on editorial fit and timing.
Common reasons include:
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Lack of a clear news angle
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Overly promotional messaging
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Insufficient data or validation
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Story not relevant to current coverage priorities
Understanding these factors helps companies refine their approach and prepare better for future attempts to Get Featured in TechCrunch.
Maximizing Impact After Publication
Securing coverage is only the first step. How you use that coverage determines its long-term value.
Recommended actions after publication:
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Share the article across professional networks
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Add TechCrunch mentions to your website
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Include coverage in investor and sales materials
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Reference the feature in future media outreach
Effective amplification extends the benefits of being able to Get Featured in TechCrunch beyond the initial article.
Conclusion
TechCrunch coverage is earned through relevance, preparation, and responsible storytelling. Companies that understand editorial standards and focus on real industry impact are far more likely to succeed.
By approaching media outreach strategically and maintaining realistic expectations, the goal to Get Featured in TechCrunch becomes achievable for startups and technology brands committed to long-term growth and credibility.
Tech
Top 8 Powerful Types of Technology Transforming Our World in 2025
Published
2 months agoon
November 19, 2025
Introduction
Technology is evolving faster than ever, and 2025 is shaping up to be a breakthrough year across multiple industries. Understanding the different types of technology is no longer optional—it’s essential for businesses, creators, students, and professionals who want to stay ahead.
Whether it’s artificial intelligence powering your daily apps or robotics revolutionizing healthcare, the types of technology emerging today are driving massive shifts in how we work, live, and connect.
This blog by Level Up Mag breaks down the most impactful types of technology in 2025, how they’re shaping the world, and why staying informed gives you a competitive advantage.
What Are the Top Types of Technology in 2025?
Here are the leading types of technology dominating the global landscape in 2025:
1. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
AI is no longer futuristic—it’s everywhere. Among all types of technology, AI stands out as the most transformative.
AI impacts:
- Automation
- Personalized experiences
- Business decision-making
- Predictive analytics
- Creativity & content generation
Tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, and various enterprise AI models prove that AI will continue reshaping industries. The rise of Generative AI, which is now used in marketing, design, research, and customer service, is defining the next wave of innovation.
2. Blockchain & Web3 Technology
Blockchain isn’t just for crypto anymore. It is becoming the backbone of trust-based digital systems.
This type of technology is used in:
- Supply chain tracking
- Smart contracts
- Identity verification
- Decentralized apps (dApps)
- Secure payments
Web3 introduces ownership, privacy, and transparency—making it one of the most important types of technology reshaping digital ecosystems.
3. Robotics & Automation
Robotics is evolving beyond manufacturing. In 2025, robots are in:
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
- Warehousing
- Retail
- Defense
From humanoid robots to delivery drones, this type of technology is leading the automation revolution.
Robots now assist in surgeries, pick warehouse orders, and even help with customer service. The combination of robotics + AI is unlocking new levels of productivity.
4. Biotechnology & HealthTech
Biotechnology is one of the fastest-growing types of technology, especially post-pandemic. It includes:
- Genetic engineering
- Vaccine development
- Wearable health devices
- AI-powered medical diagnostics
Breakthroughs in personalized medicine, DNA editing, and regenerative treatments are giving humanity tools to prevent diseases early and increase life expectancy.
HealthTech apps and devices are also enabling people to monitor their health in real time.
5. Cybersecurity & Digital Safety
As technology grows, so does cybercrime. That’s why cybersecurity has become one of the essential types of technology in 2025.
It includes:
- Threat detection systems
- Data protection tools
- Network security
- Zero-trust architecture
- AI-powered security systems
Businesses of every size rely on advanced cybersecurity to protect digital assets, customers, and operations.
6. Internet of Things (IoT) & Smart Technology
IoT connects physical devices to the internet, allowing them to communicate and function intelligently.
Popular IoT examples:
- Smart homes
- Connected cars
- Wearable devices
- Smart manufacturing
- Smart city infrastructure
This type of technology improves convenience, safety, and operational efficiency across industries.
7. Extended Reality (AR, VR & MR)
Extended Reality is becoming mainstream, especially in education, gaming, real estate, and corporate training.
This type of technology offers:
- Immersive learning
- 3D virtual experiences
- Virtual events
- Real-time simulation training
In 2025, AR glasses, VR training modules, and mixed reality environments are widely used for both entertainment and productivity.
8. Cloud Computing & Edge Computing
Cloud computing powers almost every major platform today. But edge computing is emerging as an important complement.
They support:
- Streaming services
- SaaS platforms
- Real-time data processing
- Remote work
These types of technology are crucial for storing data securely, improving speed, and enabling large-scale digital operations.

Why Understanding These Types of Technology Matters
Knowing the top types of technology helps you:
- Stay competitive in your industry
- Make informed business decisions
- Upskill for future careers
- Innovate faster
- Adapt to digital transformation
Technology is not slowing down—those who understand it will always stay ahead.
The Future of Technology in 2025 and Beyond
2025 marks a turning point in human innovation. The main types of technology discussed above are converging, amplifying each other’s potential.
AI + robotics will redefine labor.
Blockchain + IoT will enhance global transparency.
AR + 5G will reshape digital experiences.
Biotech + data analytics will transform healthcare.
The world is entering an era where technology doesn’t just support life—it enhances it.
Conclusion
From AI to biotechnology, the top types of technology in 2025 are opening the door to smarter, safer, and more efficient ways of living. Understanding these technologies empowers individuals and businesses to grow, innovate, and stay future-ready.
Level Up Mag will continue delivering powerful insights into the evolving tech landscape—because in this fast-changing world, staying informed is your biggest advantage.
🚀 Introduction
The tech landscape in 2025 is evolving at an unprecedented pace. From artificial intelligence (AI) breakthroughs to the rise of quantum computing, businesses and consumers alike are witnessing transformative changes. In this article, we delve into the top 10 tech trends that are set to redefine industries and daily life.
1. Agentic AI: Autonomous Decision-Making
Agentic AI refers to systems that can make independent decisions to achieve specific goals. Unlike traditional AI, which requires human oversight, agentic AI can operate autonomously, learning from its environment and experiences. This advancement is revolutionizing sectors like logistics, healthcare, and customer service, where real-time decision-making is crucial.
2. Quantum Computing: The Next Frontier
Quantum computing harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in ways classical computers cannot. In 2025, significant strides have been made in developing stable qubits and error-correction techniques. Industries such as pharmaceuticals, finance, and cybersecurity are poised to benefit from the immense computational power quantum computers offer.
3. Extended Reality (XR): Blurring the Lines Between Physical and Digital
Extended Reality encompasses virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). In 2025, XR technologies are becoming more immersive and accessible, enhancing experiences in gaming, education, and remote work. Companies are leveraging XR for virtual training programs, interactive product demonstrations, and collaborative meetings.
4. 5G and Beyond: The Evolution of Connectivity
The rollout of 5G networks continues to accelerate, providing faster and more reliable internet connections. Looking ahead, research into 6G technologies is underway, promising even higher speeds and lower latency. Among the top tech trends, these advancements are set to enable innovations in autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
5. AI-Driven Cybersecurity: Proactive Threat Detection
As cyber threats become more sophisticated, traditional security measures are no longer sufficient. AI-driven cybersecurity solutions are emerging to detect and respond to threats in real-time. By analyzing patterns and anomalies, these systems can identify potential breaches before they occur, safeguarding sensitive data and infrastructure.
6. Sustainable Tech: Green Innovations for a Better Future
With growing concerns over climate change, there is a push towards sustainable technologies. In 2025, innovations like renewable energy solutions, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient appliances are gaining traction. Companies are investing in green technologies to reduce their carbon footprint and promote environmental responsibility.
7. Edge Computing: Processing Data Closer to the Source
Edge computing involves processing data near its source rather than relying on centralized data centers. This approach reduces latency and bandwidth usage, making it ideal for applications like autonomous vehicles and real-time analytics. As IoT devices proliferate, edge computing is becoming increasingly important.
8. Blockchain Beyond Cryptocurrency: Decentralized Applications
While blockchain is best known for powering cryptocurrencies, its applications extend far beyond digital currencies. In 2025, industries such as supply chain management, healthcare, and finance are exploring blockchain for secure and transparent transactions. Decentralized applications (dApps) are being developed to streamline processes and enhance trust.
9. Robotics and Automation: Transforming Industries
Advancements in robotics and automation are reshaping industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. In 2025, robots are performing complex tasks with greater precision and efficiency. Collaborative robots (cobots) working alongside humans are among the leading tech trends, enhancing productivity and safety in various work environments.
10. Biotechnology: Merging Biology with Technology
Biotechnology is making significant strides in 2025, with innovations in gene editing, personalized medicine, and synthetic biology. These advancements are leading to new treatments for diseases, improved agricultural practices, and sustainable bio-manufacturing processes. The convergence of biology and technology holds promise for addressing global challenges.
For more insights on media strategy and PR success, check out Gerry Gadoury’s profile to see how industry experts leverage innovative approaches to boost visibility and brand authority. Learning from leaders like him can inspire your own tech journey and growth.
🔍 Conclusion
The tech trends of 2025 are not just shaping the future—they’re actively transforming the present. From autonomous AI systems to breakthroughs in quantum computing, these innovations are creating new opportunities and challenges across industries. Staying informed and adaptable is crucial for individuals and businesses aiming to thrive in this rapidly evolving landscape.
Tech
Apple Breaks Tradition: Touchscreen MacBooks Set to Revolutionize Laptops in 2026
Published
3 months agoon
October 19, 2025
A Bold Shift from Steve Jobs’ Legacy
After over a decade of staunch resistance, Apple is poised to launch touchscreen MacBook Pros, marking a dramatic pivot in its design philosophy. Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman reveals that these innovative devices will debut in late 2026 or early 2027. This move challenges the foundational beliefs of co-founder Steve Jobs, who in 2010 dismissed vertical touchscreens as ergonomically flawed. “Touch surfaces don’t want to be vertical. It gives a great demo, but after a short period of time, you start to fatigue,” Jobs argued. Even under Tim Cook’s leadership in 2012, Apple likened merging a laptop and tablet to combining a toaster with a refrigerator.
The touchscreen laptop market’s explosive growth has forced this evolution. Generating $50 billion globally this year, it’s projected to surge to $120 billion by 2033. Apple’s entry acknowledges shifting consumer demands for versatile devices that blend laptop power with tablet intuitiveness. No longer just a demo gimmick, touch functionality now promises real-world utility, driven by advanced hardware that mitigates fatigue through smarter ergonomics.
Cutting-Edge Tech Meets Everyday Usability
The new MacBook Pros will dazzle with OLED displays, the same vibrant panels powering iPhones and iPad Pros, in 14- and 16-inch sizes. Thinner and lighter than ever, they’ll be fueled by the M6 processor, succeeding the recently launched M5 in current models. Pricing will command a premium: expect the 14-inch to start above $1,799 (versus $1,599 today) and the 16-inch over $2,799 (from $2,499). A sleek hole-punch camera cutout replaces the notch, offering a cleaner aesthetic.
Crucially, touch complements rather than replaces the keyboard and trackpad, preserving MacBook’s intuitive workflow. Upgraded hinges and a reinforced display eliminate screen wobble during interactions, addressing Jobs’ core concerns. This hybrid approach enhances creative tasks like sketching in design apps or annotating documents, while AI-boosted M6 chips accelerate graphics and machine learning.
Complementing this, the MacBook Air gets an M5 refresh in spring 2026, holding its $999 price as Apple’s top seller for students and pros. Together, these updates position Apple to dominate a $194 billion laptop market, forecasted to exceed $334 billion by 2030.
Unlocking Entrepreneurial Goldmines in Apple’s Ecosystem
For startups and innovators, Apple’s touchscreen leap is a treasure trove. The hybrid interface demands fresh apps optimized for touch-keyboard synergy—think stylus-enabled drawing tools, interactive educational platforms, or productivity suites for media editors. Creative pros, students, and tech enthusiasts will drive demand, expanding beyond traditional Mac users.
Accessory makers can thrive with ergonomic stands, precision styluses, and protective cases tailored for touch durability. Software developers should target niches like augmented reality overlays for design workflows or AI-assisted note-taking. Early movers could capture market share as adoption spikes post-launch.
Challenges loom: high prices may deter budget buyers, and devs must master dual-input optimization to avoid clunky experiences. Yet Apple’s polish—seamless integration with iOS apps and ecosystem lock-in—mitigates risks. Analysts predict touchscreen Macs will boost productivity by 20-30% in creative fields, fueling a startup boom.
Entrepreneurs: scout partnerships via Apple’s developer program. Launch beta apps now to ride the hype wave. From indie devs crafting touch-first games to firms building enterprise training tools, opportunities abound in this $120 billion frontier.
A New Dawn for Versatile Computing
Apple’s touchscreen MacBooks herald a versatile computing era, fusing powerhouse performance with intuitive touch. This isn’t mere capitulation—it’s strategic mastery, blending legacy ergonomics with modern demands. Consumers gain fluid workflows for everything from coding marathons to casual sketching, while pros unlock unprecedented efficiency.
As 2026 nears, excitement builds. Will prices curb mass appeal? Can software evolve fast enough? Apple’s track record suggests triumph. For entrepreneurs, it’s launchpad time: innovate boldly within this ecosystem, and reap rewards from a paradigm shift. The laptop isn’t dying, it’s evolving, and Apple’s at the helm. Watch this space; the future feels tantalizingly touchable.
Entertainment
The Streaming Revolution: How Global Platforms Are Reshaping Entertainment in 2025
Published
3 months agoon
October 17, 2025
Worldwide Expansion Drives Growth
The entertainment industry has transformed dramatically over the past decade, with streaming platforms revolutionizing access to movies, series, and live events. Services like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV+ have expanded beyond borders, investing in region-specific productions to engage diverse audiences. Netflix leads with heavy funding for Korean dramas, Indian epics, and Latin American stories, blending cultural authenticity with universal appeal to surge subscriptions in emerging regions. This approach boosts representation while tapping untapped markets.
Disney+ leverages iconic IPs like Marvel and Star Wars for globally resonant franchises, while Amazon Prime Video balances blockbusters with independent films. As digital connectivity grows, viewers demand culturally relevant yet universally accessible content. This trend dismantles geographical barriers, creating an interconnected ecosystem where stories from anywhere inspire audiences everywhere.
Traditional Media Fights for Survival
Streaming’s rise has decimated cable subscriptions as viewers embrace on-demand flexibility over rigid schedules. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this, forcing studios to release films digitally alongside theaters—a now-standard practice reflecting convenience-first habits. Cinemas compete with 4K home setups, while networks lose viewers to personalized algorithms.
Yet adaptation offers hope: traditional players partner with streamers for co-productions and licensing deals, merging prestige with digital reach. Data shows consumption patterns traditional media can’t match, but hybrid strategies ensure relevance. This evolution turns disruption into reinvention, keeping legacy brands alive in a viewer-driven world.
Innovation Tackles New Challenges
Streaming pioneers interactive narratives, VR experiences, and binge-optimized series, with short-form and documentaries thriving amid fierce competition. Sophisticated analytics dissect viewing habits to perfect recommendations, optimize budgets, and predict trends, empowering creators to minimize risks and maximize engagement.
Challenges loom: market saturation causes fatigue, rising fees strain wallets, and piracy erodes profits. Independent creators struggle for visibility, but YouTube and TikTok democratize access, shifting power from gatekeepers to audiences. In 2025, ad-supported hybrids attract cost-conscious users, while AI personalization and immersive tech promise revolutionary storytelling. This isn’t just technological, it’s a cultural transformation shaping global entertainment.
Tech
The Future of Smart Homes: Key Trends Shaping 2025 and Beyond
Published
3 months agoon
October 16, 2025
As we navigate through 2025, smart homes have solidified their place as indispensable elements of contemporary life. Driven by rapid advancements in AI, enhanced connectivity, and a growing emphasis on sustainability, these intelligent systems are redefining daily routines. The global smart home market has surpassed projections, reaching approximately $170 billion this year, with continued growth expected at a compound annual rate of over 20% through 2030. This surge reflects consumer demand for homes that are not only convenient but also efficient, secure, and environmentally responsible.
AI-Driven Automation and Interoperability
At the core of today’s smart homes is artificial intelligence, which has evolved to offer highly personalized experiences. Voice assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, Google’s Assistant, and Apple’s Siri now use machine learning to predict user preferences, automating tasks such as lighting adjustments, thermostat settings, and even grocery ordering. For instance, devices like the Google Nest Learning Thermostat analyze habits to optimize energy use, potentially slashing utility bills by up to 15%.
A pivotal development is the widespread adoption of the Matter protocol, a collaborative standard from tech leaders including Apple, Google, and Amazon. Matter ensures seamless compatibility across brands, allowing a Samsung smart fridge to interact effortlessly with Philips Hue lights or Yale locks. This interoperability eliminates the silos of past ecosystems, fostering a unified home network. With end-to-end encryption, it also bolsters data privacy, addressing longstanding concerns. As AI integrates deeper, homes are becoming proactive, anticipating needs like preheating ovens based on schedules or alerting users to maintenance issues before they escalate.
Enhanced Connectivity, Security, and Eco-Friendly Innovations
The rollout of 5G and Wi-Fi 6E has supercharged smart home performance, enabling ultra-fast data transfer and minimal latency. This supports immersive applications, from 4K video streaming to real-time augmented reality (AR) overlays for home design. Hubs like Samsung’s SmartThings leverage these technologies to coordinate dozens of devices with pinpoint accuracy, creating responsive environments that adapt instantly.
Security remains paramount, with AI enhancing surveillance systems. Modern cameras, such as those from Ring or Arlo, employ facial recognition and object detection to distinguish between family members, pets, and intruders, reducing false alarms by over 90%. Biometric entry systems and encrypted cloud storage add layers of protection, giving homeowners remote oversight via apps.
Sustainability is equally transformative. Smart devices now prioritize energy conservation, with thermostats like Ecobee adjusting based on occupancy and weather forecasts to cut consumption. Solar integrations, exemplified by Tesla’s Powerwall, allow homes to store renewable energy, promoting off-grid capabilities and reducing carbon emissions. Water-saving irrigation systems and LED lighting further contribute to eco-conscious living, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
Health-Focused Tech and Emerging Horizons
Smart homes in 2025 are increasingly geared toward wellness. Air quality monitors from brands like Dyson detect pollutants and activate purifiers automatically, while sleep trackers in mattresses like those from Eight Sleep adjust firmness and temperature for optimal rest. Integrated systems even monitor vital signs, offering insights into hydration, activity levels, and stress, turning homes into personal health hubs.
Kitchens exemplify this shift, with AI ovens from LG or Bosch identifying ingredients via cameras and suggesting recipes to minimize waste. Refrigerators track expirations and integrate with delivery services for automated restocking.
Looking ahead, emotional AI could enable assistants to detect moods through voice tones and respond empathetically, perhaps dimming lights during stressful moments. AR and virtual reality will revolutionize home interactions, allowing virtual furniture trials or guided repairs. Integration with smart cities, syncing home energy use with grid demands, promises even greater efficiency. As these technologies mature, smart homes will evolve from reactive tools to intuitive companions, enhancing quality of life in profound ways.
In summary, the smart home of 2025 and beyond blends cutting-edge tech with human-centric design, promising a future where convenience, security, and sustainability coexist seamlessly. With ongoing innovations, these spaces will continue to adapt, making everyday living smarter and more harmonious.
Tech
AI Buddies: Will Virtual Personalities Dominate the Influencer Scene?
Published
4 months agoon
October 1, 2025
In the not-so-distant past, the concept of befriending a computer-generated entity or scrolling through their social media posts felt like something out of a sci-fi novel. But here in 2025, AI companions and synthetic influencers have become everyday realities, popping up in our social streams, engaging in midnight chats, and even weaving into our emotional worlds. Platforms like Replika offer custom-built digital pals, while virtual avatars on TikTok rack up billions of views. These artificial beings aren’t just transforming technology; they’re redefining cultural norms. The big query: could these digital entities emerge as the new powerhouse influencers?
The Evolution of Synthetic Beings
The origins of this trend hark back to early experiments such as Lil Miquela, the computer-generated Instagram sensation who burst onto the scene in 2016. Initially dismissed as a gimmick, a made-up figure flaunting stylish ensembles, she quickly evolved into a cultural force. By 2020, she was partnering with luxury giants like Prada, Calvin Klein, and Samsung, muddying the boundaries between artificial and genuine clout.
Today, these AI-powered figures have leaped forward in sophistication. Gone are the days of relying on human teams for animation and scripting. Powered by advanced language models and generative tech, they can chat dynamically, churn out content on the fly, and tweak their style to match user tastes. Take Aitana Lopez, an entirely fabricated TikTok star: she engages with followers, updates her wardrobe round-the-clock, and operates without breaks or salaries. For marketers, this isn’t merely cutting-edge; it’s a game-changer in efficiency.
What Draws Fans to AI Friends
Critics wonder why folks opt for virtual influencers amid a sea of human ones. The appeal boils down to three core elements: constant presence, customization, and escapism.Constant presence means no waiting games; an AI buddy is perpetually available, eager to reply at any hour. In our fast-paced era where real attention is a luxury, these digital entities deliver reliable engagement without fail.Customization sets them apart, too.
They adapt by learning your likes, suggesting tunes, recalling prior talks, and crafting content that feels uniquely yours, far beyond what standard influencers provide.Escapism adds another layer: these beings project perfection in a risk-free zone. They boast impeccable appearances, lead glamorous virtual existences, and represent unattainable ideals that human stars struggle to maintain without burnout.Ultimately, engaging with an AI persona isn’t about ditching human bonds; it’s about enjoying a seamless, tailored interaction that complements real-life connections.
Commerce in the Realm of Virtual Fame
The economic potential is enormous. Companies are flocking to AI influencers for promotional pushes, drawn by their full controllability, no PR disasters, no scheduling hiccups, no rival deals. Picture a cosmetics firm unveiling a new hue via an AI model that instantly broadcasts it on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, all while fielding fan queries live in the comments.Cost savings are a major perk. Securing a premier human endorser might cost a fortune per project, whereas developing or renting an AI version demands initial outlay but promises endless utility. Specialized firms are now crafting “artificial stars,” touting them as the pinnacle of narrative-driven branding.
Yet, this boom raises thorny issues. How might it affect young people who turn to AI for deep talks rather than peers? What are the mental health ramifications of bonding with entities that fake compassion without experiencing it?
Transparency is another hot button: must users always be informed they’re dealing with AI? Advocates push for clear labels to prevent misinformation, while others contend that in our blended digital landscape, resonance trumps origin, as long as the vibe clicks.On the job front, rising virtual stars could sideline human creators, or perhaps spur them to emphasize raw honesty, quirks, and improvisation that algorithms can’t authentically duplicate.
Blending Worlds: Partnership Over Overthrow
All the buzz aside, it’s improbable that AI companions will eclipse human influencers entirely. The trajectory points to synergy instead. Much like film stars sharing screens with digital effects, content makers could soon team up with AI counterparts. Envision a style guru presenting ensembles alongside her virtual clone, who struts them in fantastical settings, like oceanic depths, cosmic voids, or glowing futuristic streets.The essence of humanity, genuine narratives, personal journeys, and raw openness, remains irreplaceable. Machines can imitate these, but not originate them from lived truth. Still, AI entities are staking out roles as collaborators, boosters, and inspirational sparks.In wrapping up, AI companions and virtual personas aren’t fleeting fads; they signal a profound evolution in notions of self, relationships, and sway in our online era. To some, they’re disconcerting harbingers of a pliable reality. To others, they’re thrilling frontiers for invention, profit, and bonding. Regardless, their ascent compels us to ponder not if they’ll influence us, but how deeply we’ll integrate them into our digital lives, dialogues, and dreams.
Data Science in Finance: What You Need to Know. The stock market, once a vibrant hub of shouting traders in colorful jackets, has transformed into a network of silent servers powered by data science. Sophisticated mathematics and computing now decipher patterns within the market’s complexity, enabling decisions at speeds far beyond human capability. Data scientists and their algorithms have redefined finance, turning it into a machine-driven ecosystem that shapes how investments are managed and markets operate.
The Evolution of Algorithmic Trading
Decades ago, investing relied heavily on intuition and a handful of financial metrics, such as earnings reports or price-to-earnings ratios. Today, algorithmic trading, or “algo-trading,” operates on an entirely different scale, processing vast datasets with remarkable speed. These systems analyze real-time market data, every trade, bid, and ask alongside news articles, social media sentiment, and alternative data sources like satellite imagery of retail parking lots, global shipping movements, credit card transaction aggregates, or weather patterns affecting agricultural yields. By identifying subtle predictive signals within this data deluge, algorithms execute trades in milliseconds, outpacing human reaction times. Key algorithmic strategies include high-frequency trading (HFT), which capitalizes on minute price discrepancies, statistical arbitrage exploiting temporary price imbalances between related securities, and sentiment analysis tools that trigger trades based on the emotional tone of news or social media.
Opportunities and Risks in a Data-Driven Market
This technological shift brings significant advantages. Algorithms enhance market liquidity, enabling rapid buying and selling with minimal price disruption, which lowers trading costs for retail investors. They also improve efficiency by swiftly correcting mispricings, ensuring stock prices reflect new information accurately. Unlike humans, algorithms operate without emotional biases, maintaining disciplined strategies during market volatility. However, this transformation introduces challenges. Rapid algorithmic interactions can trigger “flash crashes,” where cascading sell-offs cause precipitous market drops within minutes. The opacity of these systems often termed the “black box problem” which means price movements may occur for reasons no one fully understands, undermining confidence. Furthermore, firms with cutting-edge technology and exclusive access to alternative data hold a significant advantage, raising questions about market fairness and whether it has become a technological arms race rather than a level playing field.
Strategies for Investors in a New Era
For individual investors, competing against supercomputers may seem daunting, but strategic opportunities remain. Algorithms dominate short-term trading, exploiting fleeting market inefficiencies, but long-term investing, rooted in a company’s fundamental value, leverages uniquely human strengths. By focusing on a company’s innovation, leadership, or market position, investors can prioritize strategies that algorithms are not designed to pursue. Emotional discipline is critical, humans can think critically and contextually, avoiding the fear or greed that algorithms sidestep entirely. Adopting low-cost, diversified index funds or ETFs allows individuals to harness the market’s algorithmic efficiency without engaging in direct competition. The modern stock market reflects our technological era: a dynamic interplay of human judgment and artificial intelligence. By understanding the role of algorithms and embracing disciplined, long-term strategies, investors can navigate this high-speed, data-driven landscape. Finance is no longer just about numbers, it’s a complex dance of code and human foresight, where knowing the rhythm ensures you stay in step.
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