Tech Policy & Regulation
Analyze the intersection of law and technology. Stay updated on global compliance standards, government tech regulations, censorship laws, and evolving digital policies.
202 articles
FCC Targets Foreign-Made Robot Vacuums in New Security Crackdown
The FCC plans to ban advanced robotic devices made abroad, including robot vacuums, over data security risks. The move could disrupt the smart home market and force manufacturers to comply with new standards.
Excessive Online Time Linked to Stress and Loss of Enjoyment, Study Finds
A new study of 900 German adults finds that excessive time online is associated with higher stress, negative moods, and reduced engagement in enjoyable offline activities.
FCC Blacklists Foreign-Made Robots From US Networks in Sweeping Security Ban
The FCC added foreign-produced advanced robotic devices to its Covered List, banning them from US networks over national security concerns. The move affects everything from humanoid robots to robot vacuums.
UK Legalizes Plug-in Solar Panels for Balconies in August 2026
UK legislation legalizes plug-in solar panels from August 27, 2026, enabling renters and flat dwellers to generate clean electricity via standard sockets.
US Expands Trade Restrictions to Cover Humanoid Robots and Solar Technology
The US banned foreign-made humanoid robots, robot dogs and solar inverters over national security fears. The restrictions target Chinese imports and aim to prevent dual-use technology risks.
Flock Safety's Surveillance Cameras Raise Privacy Questions Across the U.S.
Flock Safety's AI-powered license plate readers are spreading, sparking debates over privacy and policing. Here's what to know about the company and its ownership.
Bill Proposes Federal Safety Standards for Self-Driving Cars After Robotaxi Incidents
A new bill would require federal safety standards for robotaxis after incidents involving Waymo vehicles. The legislation aims to address emergency response failures in autonomous operations.
China Begins Delivering Homegrown DUV Chipmaking Tools to Leading Fabs
China has started mass-producing domestic immersion DUV lithography machines, with first deliveries to SMIC, Hua Hong, and CXMT this year.
How Smart Glasses Are Exposing Gaps in UK Privacy Law
Invisible surveillance from smart glasses challenges UK data protection laws built on transparency and consent. Regulators face pressure to update rules as wearable devices blur the line between productivity and monitoring.
EU Hits Google With $1.02B Fine Over Self-Preferencing in Search Results
The European Union fined Google $1.02 billion for illegally favoring its own services in search. The penalty adds to a series of antitrust actions against the tech giant.
Automatic Phone Wipe During Airport Search Triggers Federal Charges
An Atlanta man faces charges after his GrapheneOS phone automatically wiped itself during a U.S. airport search. The case raises legal questions about encryption and device security.
Automated Police Drones Spread Across US as Privacy Groups Sound Alarm
Over 1,000 US public safety agencies have received FAA waivers to operate automated first-responder drones, sparking privacy concerns about surveillance without oversight.
EU Hits Google With €890M Fine Over Search and App Practices
The European Union fined Google €890 million for violating competition rules in search and app distribution, escalating regulatory pressure on the tech giant.
Coordinated Protests Across 42 States Signal Growing Resistance to AI Data Center Buildout
Over 140 simultaneous protests staged in 42 states as public opposition to AI data centers intensifies, with bipartisan bans and $130B in projects delayed.
France Votes to Ban Social Media for Under-15s, Enforcement Challenges Loom
France's National Assembly approved a ban on social media for children under 15. President Macron aims for implementation by September, but enforcement hurdles remain significant.
Silicon Valley's Growing Unease Over Chinese AI Models
The rise of efficient Chinese AI models like DeepSeek is reshaping the global AI race, triggering concerns over competition, regulation, and open-source dynamics.
YouTube Targets Low-Effort AI Videos With Updated Monetization Rules
YouTube clarifies its monetization policies to exclude AI-generated and low-quality videos from ad revenue, responding to advertiser concerns.
Smart Glasses Face Mounting Backlash Over Privacy and Surveillance Fears
Celebrities and activists are pushing back against camera-equipped smart glasses. Privacy concerns and legal actions threaten the technology's future.
Robotaxi Regulation Battle Heats Up as States and Cities Diverge
The fight over who sets robotaxi rules intensifies, with local governments challenging state authority. The outcome will shape safety standards and industry deployment timelines.