Latest Global Tech News: February 13, 2026

The tech landscape is shifting rapidly this February. From high-stakes legal battles in Silicon Valley to the quirky realities of self-driving cars in the South, today's news highlights the complex intersection of technology, law, and human behavior.

Meta Disputes Social Media Addiction in Landmark Trials

In two major trials that kicked off this week, Meta (parent company of Facebook and Instagram) has taken a firm stance against the concept of "social media addiction." The company argues that social media should not be legally classified as an addiction, disputing claims that its platforms are designed to be psychologically manipulative. These trials are being watched closely as they could set a precedent for how tech companies are held accountable for the mental health impacts of their products.

The Human Element: DoorDashers Paid to Close Waymo Doors

In a surprising twist on automation, Waymo is running a pilot program in Atlanta that pays DoorDashers to close the doors of its self-driving cars. While the vehicles can navigate city streets autonomously, "door management" remains a challenge that requires a human touch. This program highlights the lingering gaps in fully autonomous systems and the creative ways companies are bridging them.

Elon Musk's Latest Vision: Moon-Based Satellite Catapults

Never one to shy away from ambitious projects, Elon Musk has detailed plans for a "satellite catapult" on the Moon. The proposed system would use lunar resources and a massive launching mechanism to send satellites into deep space more efficiently than Earth-based rockets. Musk suggests this is a critical step toward becoming a multi-planetary species and uncovering the mysteries of the solar system.

Gaming News: Death Stranding 2 and Control Resonant

Gamers have plenty to look forward to. Kojima Productions has announced that Death Stranding 2: On the Beach will arrive on PC on March 19. Meanwhile, the first gameplay trailer for Control Resonant was released, showing protagonist Dylan defying physics in a mind-bending, sideways version of New York City.

Apple Watch Series 11 Presidents' Day Deals

For those looking for a hardware upgrade, Presidents' Day sales have started early. The Apple Watch Series 11 is currently available for $299, a significant $100 discount. Similar deals are appearing for AirPods and other Apple ecosystem products.