Tech & AI News Roundup — October 11, 2026, 7:01 AM UTC

Quick links to what's actually happening in AI, tech, and IT right now — curated from real reporting, not rewritten, so you can go read the full story wherever it's genuinely worth your time.

Frances Haugen hopes The Social Reckoning will inspire more whistleblowers

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 04: Frances Haugen attends the Social Reckoning world premiere at Regal Union Square on October 04, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Sean Zanni/Getty Images for Sony Pictures Entertainment) | Getty Images for Sony Pictures E Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen was mostly unfazed watching Oscar-winning actress Mikey Madison play a character named after her in The Soci — The Verge

Apple and LG leak shows new ‘tap to control’ HomeKit features

A post on X from "pdfu," who has previously posted leaks and renders of suspected Apple features and LG smart home gear, shows new details of rumored Apple Home accessories from LG. According to the new leak, they could include an NFC-based "Proximity Control" feature that pops up a hint for a device's controls in the iPhone's Dynamic Island, simply by putting the phone close to it. The post also — The Verge

Automattic loses its interim CFO just weeks after boardroom shakeup

Automattic's interim chief financial officer Jeremy Klaperman has left the company less than a month after taking the role, TechCrunch has learned. Sources say his departure followed a demotion back to his previous position, marking another executive exit amid the organization's leadership turmoil. — TechCrunch

Beyond TechCrunch Disrupt 2026: The Side Events, Parties & Networking You Can’t Miss

TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is just the beginning. From exclusive networking events and startup showcases to happy hours, dinners, and after-hours meetups, discover what’s happening across San Francisco during Disrupt Week, October 10–16. Find your next connection, your next opportunity, or your next favorite event. — TechCrunch

OnePlus 16 Cheat Sheet: Price, Specs, and Everything We Know

OnePlus 16 cheat sheet: Explore the Oct. 12 release date, expected price, 9,000mAh battery, 200MP camera, specs, and US availability. The post OnePlus 16 Cheat Sheet: Price, Specs, and Everything We Know appeared first on TechRepublic. — TechRepublic

Toshiba Begins Philippine HDD Shipments as AI Demand Drives Expansion

Toshiba expands HDD production in the Philippines, with new shipments underway, a multibillion-peso investment planned, and 3,000 jobs expected. The post Toshiba Begins Philippine HDD Shipments as AI Demand Drives Expansion appeared first on TechRepublic. — TechRepublic

Dunking on Dating App Profiles Is Content Gold. People Are Getting Sick of It

Relationship coaches, TikTokers, and disgruntled singles alike frequently shame bad profiles, as more apps experiment with blocking screenshots. — Wired

Best Battery-Powered Leaf Blowers (2026): Tested for Power, Battery Life, and Noise

It’s finally time to ditch the gas canister—I tested these cordless leaf blowers on gravel, wood chips, and even a 5-pound concrete paver. — Wired