Daily Recap

Friday, 18 September 2026

Tech news centers on two competing impulses: governments and researchers push harder on AI oversight and security, while companies keep expanding ambitious products from robotaxis to premium smartphones. The day also shows how quickly brand and platform decisions can trigger broader public consequences.

Newsom orders California to explore an AI “kill switch” for frontier models

California moves to tighten oversight of advanced AI after Gov. Gavin Newsom orders state officials to draft new safety recommendations, including whether frontier models should have a shutdown mechanism if they become dangerous. The order sets up a working group and broader review of how the state should regulate powerful AI developers.

Hacktron researchers use Anthropic’s Claude to access OpenAI accounts and internal repositories

Researchers at Hacktron AI say they used Anthropic’s Claude to uncover weaknesses in OpenAI systems, first reaching employee accounts and then accessing internal code repositories. They say the demonstration took less than 72 hours from discovery to proof of access, and that they disclosed the issues to OpenAI after confirming them.

Waymo to launch commercial robotaxi ride-hailing in Singapore by 2028

Waymo says it plans to launch a commercial robotaxi service in Singapore by 2028, its first move into Southeast Asia. The company expects to bring vehicles in ahead of time for preparation and testing before starting paid rides, extending its push to turn autonomous driving from pilot programs into international transport businesses.

iPhone 18 Pro series goes on sale in India as queues form and delivery options expand

Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max go on sale in India with long lines outside stores in Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru. Some buyers wait overnight or for up to a dozen hours, reflecting both strong demand for flagship devices and the appeal of buying early through expanded in-store and delivery options.

iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max go on sale in India with offers across Apple and retailers

Apple also widens sales of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max across India through its online store, company-run retail locations and partner outlets. The broader rollout pairs launch-day excitement with aggressive retail distribution, making the new phones available well beyond the first queues at flagship stores.

Recap for Friday, 18 September 2026

Photos from today's Tech coverage
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