Tech Report: Amazon outage hits global sites, Apple iPhone 17 sales soar, older Americans embrace tech

Apple saw shares rise after a report from Counterpoint Research found the iPhone 17 series outsold the iPhone 16 lineup in both China and the U.S. 

(LILAMAX)- Apple saw shares rise after a report from Counterpoint Research found the iPhone 17 series outsold the iPhone 16 lineup in both China and the U.S. within the first 10 days of release. Researchers say the base model’s strong value helped drive demand, calling it “very compelling to consumers.” Apple launched the new line in September.

An Amazon Web Services outage caused widespread disruptions Monday, taking down major websites and apps across industries.

While most systems were restored by midday, some platforms remained inaccessible into the night. Analysts estimate the financial toll could reach hundreds of billions of dollars globally, given AWS’s role in powering a large portion of the internet’s infrastructure.

Meanwhile, new data reveals that older Americans may be more tech-engaged than many assume. A survey commissioned by Centrum Silver found that parents and grandparents are spending more time video chatting, scrolling social media, and reading on tablets or e-readers — habits similar to those of younger generations.

Still, many express concern about the effects of too much screen time, saying they’ve heard it can be “addictive” or even “rot the brain.”

And in the world of artificial intelligence, extreme work culture is taking hold. According to The Washington Post, several AI startups are adopting 72-hour workweeks, embracing what’s known as “996 culture” — working from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week. The practice, which originated in China, is now being celebrated in parts of Silicon Valley, raising questions about burnout and balance in one of tech’s fastest-growing industries.