TechSwu

Author

TECHSWU
January 05, 2026

Twitter/X has rolled out a new initiative targeting fresh accounts in New Zealand and the Philippines, charging a $1 annual fee for users to post and interact. Dubbed the “Not A Bot” program, this test requires new users to verify their phone numbers and choose among subscription plans, including the annual fee option.

While this move isn't mandatory, failing to pay means users will remain in lurker mode—able to follow and scroll, but not engage. Current users can breathe easy, as they won’t face any new charges for their existing accounts, but the introduction of this fee hints at a potential shift toward paid access for all.

Twitter/X claims this strategy aims to battle spam and bots, but skeptics question whether a mere dollar will deter automated accounts effectively, potentially creating barriers for genuine users. As the platform's financial woes deepen, this initiative could redefine the social media landscape.

Florida’s New Highway: Charging EVs on the Go with Wireless Power!

Florida is stepping into the future with its new Lake/Orange Expressway, set to feature groundbreaking wireless charging technology for electric vehicles (EVs). This innovative stretch of highway, approximately three-quarters of a mile long, will utilize inductive charging coils embedded in the road.

As vehicles, particularly trucks and buses, pass over these coils, they’ll receive a power boost without the need for traditional charging stations—a game changer for long-distance travel. While this system won't fully charge vehicles, it will significantly enhance their range and could pave the way for the widespread implementation of similar e-highways.

Besides wireless charging, the expressway will also include solar panels, wildlife crossings, and shared paths, promoting not just EV use but sustainable travel options for all. Slated for completion around 2029, this innovation could make conventional charging stations a relic of the past.

Fender is making waves at CES 2026 in Las Vegas with the launch of its first-ever wireless headphones and a new Bluetooth speaker line, the ELIE (Extremely Loud Infinitely Expressive) Speakers. Aimed at music lovers, the ELIE speakers deliver impressive power efficiency and can sync with each other for an immersive sound experience, receiving inputs from up to four audio channels.

Meanwhile, the MIX headphones, priced at $300, feature a modular design that caters to user preferences, boasting an astonishing 100 hours of battery life and active noise cancellation. With advanced 40mm graphene drivers, these headphones promise rich sound whether used wired or wirelessly.

Fender continues to innovate in the audio space, blending style and functionality for the ultimate listening experience. Check out FenderAudio.

Get ready for an exhilarating sneak peek at CES 2026, where technology innovation meets thrilling experiences! This year's Consumer Electronics Show, running from January 6-9 in Las Vegas, promises to unveil jaw-dropping advancements. Highlights include Samsung's Micro RGB TVs bringing vibrant color control to living rooms and Hisense's impressive projectors that aim to redefine home cinema with stunning brightness and contrast.

Audio enthusiasts can expect groundbreaking spatial sound systems, like Pioneer’s innovative in-car Dolby Atmos setup and TCL’s Dolby Atmos FlexConnect. But it's not just about screens and sound; smart devices like Birdbuddy 2 and cutting-edge electric bikes from Segway are set to steal the spotlight with their interactive features.

As tech enthusiasts gamble on the future, this edition of CES is sure to spark excitement—and sore feet—throughout the Las Vegas halls.

ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) has just launched its game-changing XREAL R1 gaming glasses, setting a new standard in immersive gameplay. Featuring a stunning 240Hz micro-OLED Full HD screen, these glasses eliminate blurring for crisp visuals that react instantly—a must for competitive gaming.

Weighing just 91 grams, they'll keep you comfortable during long play sessions.

The XREAL R1 also boasts Bose audio technology for rich sound without the need for headphones.

Plus, its electrochromic lenses automatically adjust brightness based on light conditions, ensuring optimal viewing at all times. Connecting seamlessly with PCs, consoles, and the ROG Ally handheld via the ROG Control Dock, these glasses redefine gaming on the go.

Realme is set to excite smartphone enthusiasts with the upcoming Neo8 series, a sleek and stylish mid-range device poised to follow the popular Neo7. Teased in a captivating Cyber Purple hue, the Neo8 boasts a distinctive transparent RGB design and the eye-catching Awakening Halo lighting—perfect for those who love a touch of flair! Internally, it’s powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, promising impressive performance with a benchmark score of up to 3.

58 million. Expect a stunning 6.

78-inch 1.5K 165Hz OLED display, a versatile 50MP periscope camera, and a robust 8,000mAh battery.

With an IP69 rating for water and dust resistance, along with Dolby Atmos sound, the Neo8 is gearing up to make a significant splash in the market.

At CES 2026, self-driving technology and artificial intelligence are stealing the spotlight, as automakers reassess their electric vehicle (EV) ambitions amidst regulatory shifts and economic pressures. With many major car manufacturers pulling back on new EV rollouts, a wave of suppliers and startups is showcasing groundbreaking autonomous vehicle innovations aimed at redefining the driving experience.

Experts predict that AI will play a key role not only in automotives but across various industries, from robotics to health tech. With lingering concerns about costs and competition—especially from Chinese manufacturers—companies are focusing investments on autonomy rather than EVs, reflecting a significant shift in strategy.

Attention will also be on industry titans like Nvidia and AMD, who have key presentations set to inspire the future of tech beyond transportation.

Get ready to transform your living room into a cinematic paradise with Soundcore's exciting new projectors, debuting at CES 2026! The Nebula P1i is your portable projection solution, featuring adjustable flip-out speakers, a 1080p resolution, and smart tech like autofocus and Netflix support—all for just $369. For a more immersive experience, meet the Nebula X1 Pro, a powerful 4K laser projector that can cast a stunning 200-inch picture at a bright 3,500 ANSI lumens.

This all-in-one marvel boasts the world's first wireless 7.1.

4 Dolby Atmos system, ensuring exceptional sound alongside its vibrant visuals. Priced at $4,999, it's set to become the centerpiece of your home theater when it launches on January 20.

The Nebula P1i will follow soon after, making high-quality entertainment more accessible than ever.