As the week winds down, it’s time to zoom into the top tech headlines of the week. From EV Updates to the Apple Doorbell and more, check out what’s happening in the world of tech. Read the latest news to know below!
Honda and Nissan Announce Merger Plans Amid EV Market Competition
Honda and Nissan have announced plans to merge, creating the world’s third-largest automaker by sales, following Toyota and Volkswagen. The partnership aims to tackle intensifying competition in the electric vehicle market, particularly from Tesla and China’s BYD. Mitsubishi Motors, a Nissan alliance member, is also in talks to join the integration, which could form an entity worth over $50 billion. Honda will initially lead the management of the new company, with a formal agreement expected by June 2026 and completion by August. The merger seeks to combine the strengths, technologies, and expertise of both companies to address environmental challenges and declining profits—especially for Nissan, which reported a dramatic 90% drop in earnings earlier this year. Together, the companies aim to deliver innovative mobility solutions and unique value to customers worldwide.
Hyundai to Provide Free Tesla Supercharger Adapters for EV Owners
Hyundai announced plans to distribute free CCS-to-Tesla NACS adapters to eligible EV customers starting in early 2025, enabling models like the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 to access over 20,000 Tesla Supercharger stations. The offer applies to Hyundai EVs purchased or leased before January 31, 2025, including models from the Kona Electric and Genesis lineups. Owners can request adapters through the My Hyundai portal, while sister brand Kia will also offer free adapters to certain customers. Additionally, the 2025 Ioniq 5 will feature a built-in Tesla port, providing immediate Supercharger access upon release. Tesla has confirmed that its Superchargers are ready for the 2025 Ioniq 5, though older models will need the Hyundai-approved adapters to connect.
Apple Reportedly Developing Face ID-Enabled Smart Doorbell Camera
Apple is reportedly working on a smart doorbell camera with Face ID technology to unlock doors, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Expected by late 2025, the Apple device would function like an iPhone, using Face ID and the Secure Enclave chip to safely process biometric data. The Apple camera is expected to integrate with third-party HomeKit smart locks and may debut alongside a complete smart lock system. Likewise, through a potential partnership. It will likely feature Apple’s in-house “Proxima” Wi-Fi/Bluetooth chip for seamless connectivity. This device is part of a rumored smart home push by Apple, which includes plans for a new home camera, an Apple TV, and innovative smart displays, including one with a robotic arm.
NHTSA Proposes Framework for Autonomous Vehicle Oversight
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has introduced AV STEP, a proposed national framework to evaluate and oversee autonomous vehicles, potentially paving the way for fully driverless cars. The program would streamline the exemption process for vehicles without traditional controls, such as steering wheels and pedals, allowing broader commercialization without hitting current exemption caps. In return, NHTSA is demanding increased data transparency from self-driving car companies to foster public trust. However, safety advocates criticize the timing, arguing it contradicts ongoing industry claims about technological challenges with basic safety features like automatic emergency braking. Political uncertainties also loom, with a potential Trump administration reportedly eyeing the repeal of existing crash-reporting rules. Meanwhile, Tesla and other companies continue lobbying for eased restrictions, highlighting the tension between advancing AV technology and ensuring safety.
Google Fiber Introduces New Internet Plans
Google Fiber has launched new internet plans. This launch streamlines offerings with Core 1 Gig, Home 3 Gig, and Edge 8 Gig options. The Edge 8 Gig plan delivers 8 Gbps speeds with extensive coverage. These plans replace the previous 1, 2, 5, and 8 Gig options available in other cities. Google has hinted at more announcements in the coming year. Since its 2010 debut, Google Fiber has gradually expanded across the U.S., offering increasingly faster speeds.
Netflix Secures Streaming Rights for FIFA Women’s World Cup
Netflix has acquired U.S. streaming rights for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2027 and 2031, marking a major milestone in its expansion into live sports. The 2027 tournament will be held in Brazil, with the host nation for 2031 yet to be announced. Coverage will include live English and Spanish broadcasts. These broadcasts would be supplemented by studio shows, commentary, and exclusive documentaries highlighting top players and the sport’s global growth. This is Netflix’s most ambitious sports venture to date, following smaller-scale events like NFL holiday games and celebrity boxing matches. The move reflects a broader industry trend, with streaming platforms like Apple, Amazon, and Max investing heavily in live sports to attract new audiences. The month-long World Cup, featuring 32 teams, will be a significant test of Netflix’s live streaming capabilities.