News, Events, and Updates from the World of Technology, AI, and Robotics – February 2026
New EU Cybersecurity Act: Geopolitics Enters Digital Infrastructure
The European Commission has presented an updated proposal for the Cybersecurity Act, which could significantly change how critical digital infrastructure operates within the European Union. The new regulations focus on identifying and mitigating the influence of so-called “high-risk” suppliers across 18 strategic sectors, including energy.
The most significant change is the expansion of cybersecurity considerations to include “non-technical” factors, such as supplier vulnerability to influence from third countries. This represents a clear shift from purely technological risk assessment to geopolitical analysis. While specific countries are not named in the documents, public debate frequently references China, especially in the context of digital components in energy systems.
A controversial but groundbreaking element of the proposal is the ability to withdraw products already deployed within EU infrastructure if their suppliers are later deemed high-risk. Such a mechanism could force costly upgrades and a thorough revision of procurement strategies for many companies.
At the same time, the Commission plans to accelerate certification processes, which have previously been criticized for excessive bureaucracy. The new approach aims to transform cybersecurity certification into a genuine competitive advantage rather than just a regulatory obligation.
For businesses, this means urgent analysis of supply chains and the inclusion of geopolitical risks in technology decisions. In the face of upcoming regulations such as NIS2 or changes to the Artificial Intelligence Act, cybersecurity is becoming not only a technical issue but also a strategic and political one.
ChatGPT Introduces User Age Detection System
OpenAI has launched a new system for predicting the age of ChatGPT users, which analyzes usage patterns rather than relying solely on self-reported data. If the model determines that an account may belong to a person under 18, additional safeguards are automatically applied to restrict access to sensitive content.
In cases of incorrect classification, adult users can regain full access by verifying their age through a selfie using the external service Persona. OpenAI emphasizes that the system is designed to enhance protection for minors while allowing adults to use the platform more freely.
The new system is being rolled out globally, with deployment in the European Union expected in the coming weeks to comply with local digital safety regulations.
Distance Technologies Unveils Next-Generation Military AR Goggles
Finnish company Distance Technologies has unveiled the Field Operator HUD (FOH) — an advanced AI-enhanced augmented reality system designed for military applications. The solution aims to improve situational awareness and operational effectiveness on the battlefield, both inside military vehicles and on foot.
FOH combines proprietary optics with data fusion from multiple sensors, including thermal and night vision cameras, presenting operators only with critical information in real time. The system has already undergone field trials with UK and Finnish armed forces. Distance expects the goggles to be available for NATO field trials by the end of Q1 2026, with broader deployments planned from 2027 onward.
Apple Acquires Israeli Startup Q.ai Developing Silent Communication Technology
Apple has acquired Israeli startup Q.ai, which develops innovative technology enabling silent communication via devices that interpret whispered speech and even “silent speech” through micro-movements of facial skin. The technology also reportedly allows for user identification and the assessment of emotions and physiological indicators such as heart rate and respiration.
OpenAI Works on Biometrically Verified Social Media Platform
OpenAI is developing a new social media platform designed exclusively for humans, using biometric technologies to verify users. The system could potentially leverage Orb devices for iris scanning, developed by OpenAI’s affiliated platform World, and is also considering integration with third-party biometric systems such as Apple’s Face ID.
Date: 02.02.2026
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