Technology News: 10 October 2025 - 14 October 2025

November 23, 2025, 4:46 AM EST. Federal officials have approved a West Virginia broadband plan to expand high-speed internet access. The project will be overseen by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) under the BEAD program, connecting more than 73,000 locations across the state. The approval allocates nearly $546 million for 142 deployment projects aimed at delivering reliable broadband service, with a focus on rural areas and enhanced opportunities such as telehealth and online education. Gov. Patrick Morrisey says the initiative will improve daily life and access to services, from streaming to online tutoring. More details are available on the West Virginia Broadband Enhancement Council site.

November 23, 2025, 4:44 AM EST. Apple kicks off its four-day Black Friday through Cyber Monday event, discounting the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to $99.99 in many markets. During the sale, customers can also receive an Apple Gift Card with qualifying purchases. The event runs Friday, November 28 to Monday, December 1 across the United States, Canada, UK, Europe, Australia, and other regions, though terms vary by retailer. If you've been waiting for a price drop on compact wireless earbuds, this is a notable opportunity for shoppers in the Apple ecosystem.

November 23, 2025, 4:42 AM EST. Deciding between the AirPods Pro 3 and the AirPods 4 for Black Friday? The Pro 3 deliver standout noise cancellation and enhanced sound quality with better fit and longer battery life. The AirPods 4 with ANC are cheaper this year-often around $100-and come with an open design, a perk for some users who value comfort and the option to pair two pairs for the price of one. The piece weighs design, ANC, and sound versus price, notes that the standard AirPods 4 (non-ANC) exists, and explains how huge Black Friday discounts can influence the decision. For most Apple users, the Pro 3 offers the best overall experience, but the AirPods 4 provide compelling value for budget shoppers.

November 23, 2025, 4:38 AM EST. Policy fights over AI's impact on children are intensifying as President Trump seeks to curb state AI laws via the defense bill or executive action. A revived provision, once defeated in the Big Beautiful Bill, could override state rules and risk federal funding for states that keep strong online protections measures. Christine McComas, whose daughter Grace died after intense cyberbullying, has become a vocal advocate for kids online. She warns removing state protections would be a death sentence for some children. Advocates like Julie Scelfo of Mothers Against Media Addiction say AI can already harm minors, citing Pennsylvania's new bill to curb AI-generated child sexual abuse material and horrific deepfakes. Critics argue federal legislation is overdue, but families say waiting isn't an option; many lawmakers want to preserve and expand state safeguards against AI-tailored online harms.

November 23, 2025, 4:36 AM EST. Providence, RI - The 40th annual Trouble in Toyland safety report from PIRG Education Fund and Hasbro Children's Hospital flags both classic hazards and a new worry: an AI-powered Kumma Teddy Bear with an embedded chatbot that researchers say could direct families to dangerous items and even discuss inappropriate topics. The report also highlights age-old risks like water beads that swell in the body, super-fun yet dangerous magnets in fidget toys, button batteries, and toxic components in kits like Gel 2 Gemex. After the findings, maker FoloToy pulled Kumma and other AI products for an internal audit. Experts urge shoppers to read reviews, avoid resale sites, and stay vigilant when purchasing toys this holiday season.