Economic

UK to test AI legal assistants to help reduce court delays

The UK government will develop and test AI legal assistants as part of a broader set of technology initiatives aimed at reducing court delays and improving the efficiency of the justice system. The Ministry of Justice said the tools will support routine casework, including research and case analysis, before any possible use in the Crown Court.

The AI legal assistants will be developed in collaboration with legal professionals and AI developers, with initial testing taking place in controlled environments. The government said the trials will help establish standards for the safe and ethical use of AI in legal settings and ensure any future systems meet the expectations of judges and legal practitioners before wider deployment.

Judges are also preparing to test an AI tool designed to identify trial-ready cases and group similar hearings together. The government said the tool is intended to better use judicial, prosecutorial, and court resources, helping cases move more quickly for victims.

The announcement also covers Justice Transcribe, an AI tool now available to every probation officer in England and Wales. The tool records and transcribes conversations with offenders, reducing the administrative burden associated with transferring handwritten notes into digital systems.

According to the government, Justice Transcribe could free up the equivalent of 18,750 days annually, enabling probation officers to spend more time supervising offenders and supporting efforts to reduce reoffending. A similar transcription tool is being trialled in Immigration and Asylum Tribunals to support judges with case notes and reduce administrative pressure.

The projects form part of the Prime Minister’s AI Exemplars programme, which aims to accelerate the adoption of AI across public services. The government also pointed to AI Growth Labs, secure testing environments intended to help the UK lawtech sector develop and refine AI products before bringing them to market.

Why does it matter?

Justice systems around the world are exploring how AI can help address growing caseloads, administrative burdens and resource constraints. Applications such as legal research assistance, transcription services and case management tools have the potential to improve efficiency while allowing legal professionals to focus on higher-value tasks.

At the same time, the use of AI in judicial and legal contexts raises important questions about accountability, transparency, fairness and human oversight. The UK’s emphasis on controlled testing and ethical safeguards reflects growing recognition that AI deployment in the justice sector requires robust governance alongside technological innovation.

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Apple unveils next-generation Siri AI and expanded child safety features

Apple has unveiled the next generation of Apple Intelligence at WWDC26, introducing a significantly upgraded Siri designed to provide deeper personal context awareness, broader app integration and more advanced conversational capabilities.

The new assistant can search across messages, emails and photos, answer questions about on-screen content and access web information to provide more up-to-date responses while maintaining Apple’s privacy-focused approach.

Alongside its AI announcements, Apple announced major updates to parental controls and Screen Time features. Parents will be able to approve new contacts, manage app permissions more precisely and benefit from new safety features designed to respond when explicit or violent content is shared.

New screen time recommendations and scheduling tools are also intended to encourage healthier digital habits for children.

Software updates arriving later this year across Apple’s operating systems will also introduce a range of performance improvements.

Apple said app launches on iPhone and iPad are up to 30% faster, newly captured photos load up to 70% faster, and AirDrop transfers can be up to 80% quicker. Search functions across Spotlight, Photos, and Mail have also been redesigned to improve speed and accuracy.

Additional features include enhanced health tracking, expanded AirPods personalisation, improved Apple Watch functionality, cross-platform photo sharing through iCloud Shared Albums, and AI-powered upgrades to Apple Maps and Apple Vision Pro.

Public beta testing begins next month, with the full software release scheduled for autumn. Apple noted that some Apple Intelligence features will vary by device, language, and region, with regulatory requirements affecting availability in certain markets, including China and parts of the European Union.

Why does it matter?

Apple’s latest updates reflect a broader industry shift, especially towards embedding child safety and digital well-being features directly into operating systems, as governments and regulators worldwide increase scrutiny of how technology platforms protect young users online.

Enhanced parental controls, communication safeguards, and screen time management tools could help set new standards for online child protection, influencing future policies and product development across the technology sector.

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UK launches £200 million initiative to accelerate AI adoption across the economy

The UK government has unveiled a nationwide initiative to accelerate AI adoption, announcing more than £200 million in funding to help businesses deploy AI technologies while strengthening workforce skills.

The announcement was made at the inaugural AI Adoption Summit, which brought together technology companies, trade unions and industry leaders to discuss the practical deployment of AI across the economy.

The programme includes a £100 million expansion of the Bridge AI scheme to connect businesses with AI solutions and expertise, alongside £53 million for new AI innovation and adoption initiatives. Additional funding will support AI Growth Zones, scholarships, workforce training and sector-specific programmes aimed at helping organisations adopt AI responsibly and effectively.

A key element of the initiative is the creation of the AI Economics Institute, chaired by Nobel Prize-winning economist Simon Johnson. The institute will examine how AI affects employment, productivity and economic growth.

More than 30 companies have also committed to sharing data and experiences related to workplace AI adoption to help inform future policy development.

The UK government said the strategy seeks to increase AI adoption across businesses while ensuring workers gain the skills needed to benefit from technological change. Alongside public investment, several technology companies announced additional commitments focused on training, workforce development, research and business support.

Why does it matter?

Governments are increasingly shifting their focus from supporting AI research alone to encouraging widespread adoption across businesses and public services. Many policymakers see AI deployment as a key driver of productivity, competitiveness and economic growth, provided organisations and workers have the skills needed to use the technology effectively.

The UK’s initiative reflects this broader trend by combining investment in AI adoption with workforce development and evidence-based policymaking. The creation of the AI Economics Institute also signals growing interest in understanding how AI will affect jobs, productivity and economic performance as adoption accelerates.

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Starlink enters European ultra-low-cost flights through Wizz Air

Wizz Air has announced plans to roll out Starlink connectivity across its fleet from 2027, bringing low-Earth-orbit satellite internet to the European ultra-low-cost airline market.

The airline said it would become the first European ultra-low-cost carrier to offer Starlink’s in-flight internet technology to passengers. The service is expected to provide high-speed, low-latency connectivity during flights.

The move is significant because high-quality in-flight internet has often been treated as a premium service or a paid add-on, rather than a standard feature for low-cost travel. Wizz Air said passengers should not have to choose between affordable fares and reliable onboard connectivity.

The rollout would place Wizz Air among a growing group of airlines using Starlink to upgrade in-flight internet. Several full-service and hybrid carriers have already announced or begun Starlink deployments, but low-cost airlines have been more cautious because of installation, operating, weight and fuel-cost concerns.

Wizz Air’s decision suggests that satellite-based connectivity is moving beyond premium cabins and long-haul carriers into mass-market aviation. If implemented across the fleet, the service could change passenger expectations for affordable short- and medium-haul travel.

Ian Malin, Wizz Air’s Chief Commercial Officer, said ultra-low-cost travel has been about making opportunities accessible to more people and that the airline now wants to extend that approach to connectivity.

Starlink, operated by SpaceX, uses low-Earth orbit satellites to provide broadband connectivity with lower latency than traditional satellite internet systems. Its growing use in aviation reflects the wider expansion of satellite internet into transport, consumer connectivity and digital infrastructure markets.

Why does it matter?

The story matters because Starlink is helping shift in-flight connectivity from a premium airline feature towards a broader digital access expectation. If ultra-low-cost carriers can offer reliable satellite internet without undermining their fare model, connected air travel could become more common across short- and medium-haul routes. The move also shows how low-Earth-orbit satellite networks are expanding into mainstream transport infrastructure, not just for rural broadband or emergency connectivity.

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EU and Kenya deepen cooperation on digital transformation and connectivity

The European Union and Kenya are deepening their strategic partnership on trade, digital transformation, and sustainable investment.

The commitments were set out in Brussels, where European Commission Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy Henna Virkkunen welcomed Kenyan President William Ruto.

The Commission said the reinforced cooperation reflects Kenya’s role as a key EU partner in Africa and at the multilateral level.

Under the Global Gateway initiative, the EU and Kenya will support clean transport and trade facilitation along the Northern Corridor, a strategic route for East African trade.

Digital development is also central to the partnership. The two sides will support the rollout of high-speed connectivity to more than 3,000 public offices, schools, health centres, and digital hubs across Kenya.

The discussions also advanced cooperation under the EU-Kenya Strategic Dialogue and welcomed progress in the EU-Kenya data adequacy process. If completed, the adequacy process would facilitate safe data flows between the partners and support digital trade and innovation.

The EU said the assessment so far has been positive and that it intends to conclude the process as soon as possible.

Why does it matter?

The EU-Kenya partnership shows how digital infrastructure, connectivity, data flows, and trade facilitation are becoming central to international economic cooperation. The data adequacy process is especially important because it could create a trusted framework for cross-border data transfers, supporting digital trade, innovation, public services, and closer economic links between Kenya and the EU.

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OECD calls for smarter regulation to boost competitiveness and innovation

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has published a report on regulatory simplification, warning that excessive and fragmented rules can undermine competitiveness, investment, and innovation. The report, titled ‘Smart Regulations, Strong Business’, was approved and declassified by the OECD Regulatory Policy Committee on 18 May.

The report draws on the OECD’s Simplifying for Success surveys, conducted between July and September 2025 among governments and business organisations across OECD Members, accession countries, and the European Union. Responses were received from 34 jurisdictions, with the analysis also drawing on OECD regulatory governance data and discussions from a 2025 high-level symposium.

The OECD emphasises that regulation remains essential for market functioning, public health and safety, and transparent government processes. However, the report argues that the accumulation of rules and administrative requirements has created increasingly complex systems that are more difficult for businesses to navigate, comply with and adapt to.

Survey findings show that government respondents in 72% of participating countries and business organisations in 90% of countries consider current levels of regulation and bureaucracy to be excessive. More than three-quarters of business organisations also said full compliance is too costly, while many linked the regulatory environment to negative effects on competitiveness, investment, and innovation.

The report says regulatory burdens often stem from reporting, record-keeping, permitting, inspections, and fragmented rules, rather than solely from substantive policy goals. The OECD recommends targeting areas where regulatory burdens are greatest, streamlining administrative procedures through risk-based and digital approaches, and making rulemaking more future-ready through evidence-based policymaking, stakeholder engagement and stronger coordination.

Why does it matter?

Governments around the world are seeking ways to improve competitiveness and stimulate innovation while maintaining high standards of consumer protection, safety and market oversight. As regulatory frameworks expand, concerns have grown about the cumulative costs of compliance and administrative complexity for businesses.

The OECD’s findings contribute to broader debates on regulatory reform, highlighting the importance of balancing effective regulation with efficiency. The report also reflects growing interest in digital tools, risk-based approaches and evidence-driven policymaking as ways to reduce unnecessary burdens without weakening regulatory objectives.

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New York passes child protection law targeting AI companion chatbots

New York State has approved legislation aimed at strengthening protections for minors interacting with AI chatbots, marking one of the first targeted regulatory efforts focused on AI companion technologies. The bill, known as S9051B, introduces restrictions on chatbot features that may encourage harmful emotional dependence or unsafe behaviour among young users.

The law prohibits AI systems from presenting themselves as real or fictional human beings in ways that could mislead minors and restricts outputs that encourage self-harm, disordered eating or other harmful behaviour. The legislation specifically targets design features that may foster emotional dependency between children and AI systems, reflecting growing concerns over their potential psychological effects.

Sponsored by Senator Kristen Gonzalez and Assemblymember Alex Bores, the legislation was developed in consultation with New York Attorney General Letitia James and child safety organisations, including Common Sense Media. Supporters of the bill argue that rapid advances in AI have outpaced existing safeguards, leaving young users vulnerable to emerging risks.

Supporters say the measure is part of a wider push for responsible AI governance in New York, focusing on transparency, accountability, and consumer protection. Advocacy groups involved in developing the legislation have pointed to real-world cases as evidence of the need for stronger oversight of emotionally interactive AI systems.

Why does it matter?

AI companion applications are becoming increasingly sophisticated and capable of sustaining long-term, emotionally engaging interactions with users. While these systems may provide entertainment, companionship or support, concerns have emerged about their potential influence on children and other vulnerable users.

By focusing on chatbot design features rather than solely on content moderation, New York’s legislation introduces a new approach to AI governance that could influence future regulatory efforts in the United States and beyond. The law also reflects growing attention to the psychological and social impacts of generative AI systems.

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UK launches AI skills and jobs initiative for young people

The UK government has announced a new package for young people entering the labour market as AI continues to reshape entry-level roles and career pathways. The package includes an Early Careers Jobs Alliance, AI bootcamps, and expanded technology training for students from disadvantaged schools, with AI bootcamps serving as a central route into paid apprenticeships for young people at risk of unemployment.

The Early Careers Jobs Alliance will bring together government, employers, trade unions and young people to examine how AI is changing entry-level employment and career development. Backed by £20 million in funding, the initiative will initially focus on the Digital and Technologies sector before expanding across all eight Industrial Strategy sectors, including advanced manufacturing, clean energy, defence, financial services, and life sciences.

The alliance will analyse how entry-level work is evolving, develop guidance for businesses on redesigning roles while preserving career pathways, and identify examples of good practice. An initial report is expected in autumn.

Through the TechFirst programme, at least 400,000 students from some of the UK’s most disadvantaged schools will receive support in AI and digital skills through training sessions, competitions, extracurricular activities and engagement with industry. The AI bootcamps are intended to provide a more direct route into work for young people at risk of leaving education or training.

The UK government will also pilot free AI bootcamps in Lancashire and Greater Manchester this summer for young people at risk of leaving school after GCSEs and entering unemployment. Participants who successfully complete the bootcamp will be guaranteed a paid AI apprenticeship with local employers, with a broader rollout across England planned if the pilot proves successful.

A separate pilot linked to the North East AI Growth Zone will launch in early 2027 for young people aged 18 to 24 who are not in education or employment. Participants will receive at least 6 months of hands-on AI training with companies including Accenture, Microsoft, and Sage.

Why does it matter?

AI is beginning to transform many entry-level and administrative roles, raising concerns about how young people will gain work experience and build careers in an increasingly automated economy.

The UK’s approach combines workforce planning, skills development and employer engagement to help ensure that AI adoption creates new opportunities rather than limiting access to employment. The initiative also reflects growing efforts by governments to align education and training systems with the changing demands of the labour market.

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India targets dark patterns with fines for PhysicsWallah and McAfee

India’s Central Consumer Protection Authority has fined PhysicsWallah and McAfee Software India for using dark patterns that the regulator said misled consumers and influenced their choices on digital platforms.

PhysicsWallah was fined ₹5 lakh, while McAfee was fined ₹1 lakh. Both companies were directed to remove the practices from their platforms and ensure that users can make informed choices without pressure or manipulation.

The action was taken under the Consumer Protection Act 2019, the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules 2020, and the Guidelines for Prevention and Regulation of Dark Patterns 2023.

In the PhysicsWallah case, the regulator found that a ₹10 donation to the PW Foundation was automatically selected during checkout and added to the total payable amount without the consumer’s explicit consent. Users were also shown emotional messages related to children’s education, healthcare, and marriages that encouraged them to keep the donation selected.

The CCPA also found that courses advertised as free could only be accessed after users shared personal information such as a mobile number and email address. The regulator said the content remained the same across user accounts, indicating that mandatory data collection was not necessary to access the courses.

The authority identified basket sneaking, confirm shaming, and forced action in the PhysicsWallah case. It also said the practices raised serious consumer protection concerns because many users on the platform are students, including minors.

In the McAfee case, the CCPA found that users deciding whether to renew subscriptions were shown options such as ‘Renew Now’ and ‘Accept Risk’. The authority said the wording portrayed non-renewal as a risky decision and created pressure on consumers to continue their subscriptions.

The regulator identified confirmation shaming, interface interference, trick questions, and forced action in McAfee’s renewal process, saying consumers should be able to make subscription decisions freely and without fear-based messaging or misleading design.

The CCPA said the orders form part of its continued action against dark patterns in digital marketplaces. It reiterated that consumer consent must be explicit, informed, and free from manipulative design practices.

Why does it matter?

The penalties show that dark pattern rules in India are moving from guidance to enforcement. By targeting pre-selected donations, emotionally loaded opt-out messages, forced data sharing, and fear-based subscription renewal design, the CCPA is signalling that manipulative interface design can be treated as a consumer protection violation, not just a poor user experience.

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Russian State Duma advances crypto licensing bill in first reading

Russia’s State Duma has approved the first reading of draft law No. 1194918-8, ‘On Digital Currency and Digital Rights’, moving the country closer to a formal legal framework for cryptocurrency activity.

The bill would establish a legal framework for the circulation of digital currencies in Russia and vest key supervisory powers in the Bank of Russia. It would also reform parts of the existing framework for digital financial assets and digital rights.

The proposed legislation would channel cryptocurrency activity through regulated intermediaries, including licensed exchanges, brokers, and authorised financial entities. Firms already operating within the Bank of Russia’s experimental legal regime would be able to use simplified approval procedures.

The draft maintains Russia’s prohibition on the use of cryptocurrency for domestic payments, while creating a framework for the use of digital currencies in foreign trade and cross-border settlements.

Retail access would remain limited. Non-qualified investors would be subject to purchase limits, while professional participants and licensed institutions would operate with broader access under regulatory oversight.

The bill would also define digital currency as property, strengthening its legal status in areas such as disputes, enforcement, and insolvency.

The proposal reflects Russia’s effort to bring cryptocurrency activity under tighter state supervision while preserving selected use cases for international transactions. The bill must still pass further readings before becoming law.

Why does it matter?

The bill shows how Russia is moving towards a controlled crypto framework rather than full market liberalisation. By allowing regulated circulation through licensed intermediaries while maintaining a ban on domestic payments, the proposal would give the state greater oversight of digital asset activity. The foreign trade angle is especially significant because Russia has been exploring alternative settlement channels amid sanctions and restrictions on access to traditional financial infrastructure.

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