Here are this week's signals.
Apple’s new AirTag is louder and can be found across longer distances
Apple on Monday introduced the next version of its AirTag, which will now feature a longer Bluetooth range, a louder speaker, and improved precision-finding capabilities. The latter is powered by Apple’s second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, which is also found in the iPhone 17 devices, iPhone Air, Apple Watch Series 11, and Apple Watch Ultra 3.
Social network UpScrolled sees surge in downloads following TikTok’s US takeover
In the wake of TikTok’s U.S. ownership change last week, some users are seeking out alternative platforms. One app gaining traction is UpScrolled, a social network that pledges to remain impartial to political agendas. The app currently ranks 12th overall in Apple’s App Store and second in the social networking category.
This startup will send 1,000 people’s ashes to space — affordably — in 2027
In 2027, startup Space Beyond plans to launch the ashes of 1,000 people into orbit for as little as $249. Founded by a former Blue Origin engineer, the company uses SpaceX rideshares to make space memorials affordable, concluding missions with a symbolic "shooting star" atmospheric re-entry.
Decathlon turns trainer returns into a New Year’s motivation play
French sports retailer Decathlon is helping Canadians keep their New Year’s resolution to be more active by rewarding them for not returning their new trainers.
Meta to test premium subscriptions on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp
Meta plans to test new subscriptions that give people access to exclusive features on it apps, the company told TechCrunch on Monday. The tech giant said the new subscriptions will unlock more productivity and creativity, along with expanded AI capabilities.
Google Photos’ latest feature lets you meme yourself
Google Photos will now let you make memes with your own images. On Thursday, Google introduced a new generative AI-powered feature called “Me Meme,” which will allow you to combine a photo template and an image of yourself to generate an image of the meme.