Software

Software encompasses the digital tools, applications and systems that power modern life, from the artificial intelligence models reshaping how we work and create to the open-source projects offering alternatives to established platforms. This section covers developments across the full software landscape, including advances in machine learning, developer tools and infrastructure, cybersecurity concerns, and the underlying technologies that connect our digital world.

The software industry is experiencing rapid evolution driven by artificial intelligence. Major technology companies are integrating new capabilities into widely-used applications, from interactive diagrams in chatbots to local file access in AI assistants. Simultaneously, developers continue building open-source alternatives to commercial software, whilst internet infrastructure providers work to expand the ecosystem of domain names and digital resources available online.

Software developments matter to readers because they directly shape how we interact with technology daily, influence the tools available to businesses and creators, and raise important questions about security, privacy and competition in the digital economy. Whether through new features in familiar applications, emerging cybersecurity risks, or funding trends affecting startup innovation, software news determines how technology evolves and who benefits from it.

  • Teenage girl improves after Waterford arson attack as brother remains critical

    A teenage girl injured in an arson attack in Waterford is slowly making progress, while her younger brother remains in a critical condition, according to their aunt, Jackie English. The attack killed the children’s parents, Philip and Kim English, and two other children, Callum, 12, and Jayden, nine. Gardaí are guarding the surviving children in…

  • Guide: These 35+ PS5 and PS Plus Games Are Coming Out Next Week (19th-25th October)

    More than 35 games are due to arrive on PS5 or through PS Plus during the week of 19 to 25 October, including several high-profile releases. The schedule highlights the breadth of upcoming titles, from major franchises to smaller independent games. Among the named releases are BeamNG.drive, arriving in Early Access on 19 October, and…

  • Mercedes-AMG unveils its first bespoke SUV with 1,153bhp top model

    Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the 2028 GT SUV, its first full-size SUV developed entirely in-house. The electric model aims to combine sports-car handling with family practicality, and its flagship version produces 1,153 horsepower, putting it ahead of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Electric in power. The SUV will come in GT 53, GT 55 and GT 63…

  • Oh dear, half a year after launching Samson, Swedish developer Liquid Swords have filed for bankruptcy

    Swedish developer Liquid Swords has been declared bankrupt, about six months after releasing its first game, Samson. The Stockholm District Court issued the order on 12 October after employees petitioned for bankruptcy, with almost 30 staff affected. Employees had reportedly gone at least two months without pay, and the Swedish state will cover unpaid salaries.…

  • Ember’s Mug 3 adds on-mug temperature controls and dishwasher-safe design

    Ember has launched the Mug 3, a temperature-controlled mug that can keep drinks warm for up to three hours on a charge. Its main change is a button that lets users choose a temperature without opening the app, making it easier to adjust a drink while relaxing or when phone pairing is inconvenient. The button…

  • Meta drops terms allowing website content to train its AI products

    Meta has removed wording from its commercial terms that appeared to let it use website content, including news articles, to develop and train its AI products. The change follows criticism that the clause could allow content to be scraped without payment and override website owners’ instructions. The deleted wording covered content from specified domains, web…

  • Why Britain should reject the lure of cheap – and scary – Chinese AI

    Chinese developers are offering businesses and governments low-cost, open-weight AI models, prompting concerns that Britain may adopt them for their price and flexibility. The article argues that reliance on Chinese technology could strengthen Beijing’s economic and political influence abroad, while raising questions about surveillance and security. It compares cheap AI with subsidised Chinese electric cars,…

  • Newcastle v Aston Villa: Premier League – live

    Newcastle are under pressure after losing 4-1 to Coventry on Monday, prompting scrutiny of manager Matthias Jaissle’s commitment to fast, vertical football. Ahead of Aston Villa’s visit to St James’ Park, the article argues that Newcastle may need to temper their aggressive approach to avoid another poor performance. Jaissle says high-energy attacking is the style…

  • Pikmin 4 discounted ahead of Switch 2 upgrade launching in November

    Walmart is selling the digital Nintendo Switch version of *Pikmin 4* for $39.88, just over $20 below its usual price. The discount comes ahead of an enhanced Switch 2 edition, giving buyers a cheaper way to play the game now and upgrade later. The Switch 2 version launches on 12 November 2026 with improved visuals,…

  • 2026 Has Been a Surprisingly Excellent Year for Shooters

    Shooter games have had a stronger 2026 than early setbacks suggested, with releases from major publishers and independent studios bringing fresh energy to the genre. The article argues that a difficult launch for Highguard and doubts about Marathon had prompted premature claims that shooters, especially live-service games, were losing appeal. Among the year’s releases, Gears…