Consumer Technology Association SmartBrief
Plus: Walmart CEO Furner shares vision for value, AI innovation
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June 18, 2026
 
 
Consumer Technology Association SmartBrief
News covering the consumer technology industrySIGN UP ⋅   SHARE
 
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Today's Digital Pulse
 
Next-gen social media: Apps hand algorithm control to users
 
The Instagram logo is displayed on a smartphone screen with the app icon in the background, in Creteil, France, on May 15, 2026. A new ephemeral photo sharing feature is available on the Instagram app and via a standalone app. (Photo by Samuel Boivin/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
(NurPhoto/Getty Images)
Social media platforms have shifted from traditional recommendation algorithms to user-controlled systems, allowing individuals to personalize their feeds with AI-powered tools. Users on Instagram, Threads and TikTok can now directly influence the content they see by selecting topics and preferences, marking a major shift toward greater transparency and control over their online experiences.
Full Story: TechCrunch (tiered subscription model) (6/17)
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Automated fulfillment, available now
Achieve best-in-class OTIF enabled by warehouse robotics—without the upfront cost. Warehouse automation requires massive capital, long-term contracts, and years to implement. Fortunately for you, Exol™ already made the investment. You get world-class robotics and a nationwide network without the capital commitment or decade-long lock-in. Learn More.
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Smart Home
 
Philips Hue's new switches make non-smart bulbs smart
Philips Hue has expanded its smart lighting lineup with Play lamps, smart switches and upgraded candle bulbs designed to enhance home lighting ecosystems. The highlight is the smart switches, available as Wired Dimmer Wall Switch and Wired On/Off Wall Switch models, which can turn traditional bulbs into smart lights.
Full Story: T3 (6/17)
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Jackery’s FridgeGuard backs up home power during outages
The Verge (6/17)
 
 
Thread launches Tools for real-time home network diagnostics
Forbes (tiered subscription model) (6/17)
 
 
Windfall brings plug-in power storage to apartment living
T3 (6/16)
 
Scale Your Data to Maximize AI Visibility
Product discovery has shifted to AI platforms like ChatGPT and Copilot. Human-centric copy is no longer sufficient. Join our June 30 webinar to audit your catalog health and enrich data at scale without tech stack disruption. Register now »
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From Blue Chips to Startups
 
Tesla Cybercab specs revealed
 
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM - JANUARY 10: Tesla Cybercab or Robotaxi two-passenger battery-electric self-driving car and Tesla Cybertruck battery electric pickup truck on display at the 2025 Autosalon on January 10, 2025 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Sjoerd van der Wal/Getty Images)
Tesla Cybercab (Sjoerd Van Der Wal/Getty Images)
Tesla's Cybercab features a 163-kilowatt front motor and a 48-kilowatt-hour battery, according to documents from the Environmental Protection Agency. The Cybercab, a two-seater coupe unveiled in 2024, relies on Full Self-Driving software instead of lidar.
Full Story: Electrive (Germany) (6/16)
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Firefly lights up automated creative workflows in Adobe apps
9to5Mac (6/18)
 
 
Nvidia’s Huang urges society to rethink its AI mindset
The Hill (6/17)
 
 
Reserved by Spotify rolls out to loyal listeners
TechCrunch (tiered subscription model) (6/18)
 
 
 
 
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Sponsored Content from Netline
 
 
15 AI Mistakes CEOs Make and How to Avoid Them: A Guide to Human-Centered Technology Implementation
 
 
Create Your Dream Work
 
 
All Things Innovation Releases AI-Driven Innovation & Insights Solutions Showcase
 
 
Management Series: What do All Great Managers Have in Common
 
 
Stay Interviews: Why And How To Use Them Successfully
 
 
 
 
Tech News
 
iPods spin back into style as Gen Z rewinds tech tastes
The iPod is experiencing a resurgence among Gen Z, who are seeking to minimize distractions and have more control over their music experience. eBay searches for iPods have increased, with the iPod Classic and iPod Nano seeing a 25% and 20% rise, respectively.
Full Story: Engadget (6/18)
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