Tech News Digest: Friday, 24 April 2026
OpenAI drops GPT-5.5, Meta plans fresh layoffs, and the next generation of AI wearables gets a boost.
Today in tech, we're seeing OpenAI push the boundaries of productivity again with a major model update, while hardware enthusiasts might find it a bit harder to snag a new desktop Mac. We’ve also got updates on the future of AI wearables and some significant movement in the tech jobs market.
OpenAI releases GPT-5.5, nearing 'Super App' status
OpenAI has just launched GPT-5.5, a significant update that brings the company closer to creating an all-in-one AI super-app. The new model offers enhanced capabilities across almost every category, making it a vital upgrade for those of us relying on AI to power our daily workflows and side hustles.
Era raises $11M for the future of AI wearables
Startup Era has secured fresh funding to build a dedicated software platform for the growing world of AI hardware, including smart glasses, rings, and pendants. As we start to look beyond the smartphone, this infrastructure will be crucial for making these new gadgets actually useful in our day-to-day lives.
Noscroll: The AI bot designed to end doomscrolling
If you find yourself losing hours to mindless scrolling, a new AI bot called Noscroll wants to do the hard work for you by reading the internet and summarising the bits that actually matter. It’s a clever bit of kit for anyone looking to reclaim their focus and boost productivity without missing out on essential news.
Meta to cut 8,000 jobs in latest efficiency drive
A leaked internal memo suggests Meta is planning to slash its headcount by another 10%, affecting approximately 8,000 staff starting in late May. It is a stark reminder that even as the giants of Silicon Valley race toward an AI future, the human cost of 'efficiency' remains high.
The mysterious disappearance of the Mac mini and Mac Studio
Tech buyers have noticed that Apple’s mid-range desktop powerhouses, the Mac mini and Mac Studio, are becoming surprisingly difficult to find in stock. While Apple remains tight-lipped, the sudden scarcity usually signals that a major hardware refresh is just around the corner, so you might want to hold off on any big purchases for a few weeks.
That's your lot for today—have a cracking weekend and we'll see you on Monday!