Latest Software & Apps News

📅April 24, 2026 at 1:00 AM
AI drives surge in software patents, IT spending growth to $6.31T, new Cognizant patents, ICO fines LastPass, and AI redefines companionship in latest tech news.
1

Goldstein IP Highlights Rising Demand for Software Patents Amid AI Boom

Goldstein Intellectual Property has released insights on the increasing demand for software patents as AI accelerates app development. This trend reflects how AI tools are speeding up innovation in software creation. The report was published on April 24, 2026.Source 1

2

Gartner Forecasts 13.5% Growth in Global IT Spending to $6.31 Trillion in 2026

Global IT spending is projected to reach $6.31 trillion in 2026, a 13.5% increase from 2025, driven primarily by AI. Data center systems will grow 55.8%, while software sees strong gains from generative AI. IT services will top $1.87 trillion.Source 2

3

Cognizant AI Lab Secures Three New U.S. Patents, Reaching 65 Total

Cognizant's AI Lab earned three additional U.S. patents on April 23, 2026, bringing its total to 65 U.S. and 88 international patents. This underscores ongoing innovation in AI technologies. The announcement highlights the firm's leadership in AI patenting.Source 3

4

ICO Fines LastPass UK £1.2 Million for 2022 Data Breach

The UK's ICO fined password manager LastPass UK Ltd £1.2 million after a 2022 breach exposed data of up to 1.6 million users. This enforcement action focuses on personal data protection failures. It appears in the April 2026 Data Matters newsletter.Source 4

5

ICO Releases Report on Data Protection Implications of Agentic AI

The ICO published a report examining data protection issues with agentic AI, amid heightened focus on AI and children's data. New guidance is out for consultation on these topics. Enforcement continues on breaches involving children and marketing.Source 4

6

WARC Report: AI Redefines Companionship in Consumer Trends

The World Advertising Research Center's new report states AI is redefining companionship, with 10% of global consumers in AI chatbot relationships. 62% prefer AI over human friends for advice, driving innovations like AI toys for the elderly. Published April 24, 2026.Source 7

7

Data News Hotlist Features AI Platform for Cold Case Investigations

The Center for Data Innovation's 10 Bits hotlist from April 18-24, 2026, highlights an AI platform aiding investigators in analyzing cold cases. It rounds up key data news developments. This underscores AI's role in public safety apps.Source 5

8

Gartner: AI Infrastructure Fuels Fastest Data Center Growth at 55.8%

AI is the biggest driver of IT spending growth, with data center systems expected to surge 55.8% in 2026 per Gartner. This outpaces other categories significantly. Investments in AI infrastructure are key to the trend.Source 2

9

Software Market Shows Strong Growth from Generative AI

Gartner's forecast notes robust growth in software, especially generative AI, contributing to overall IT spending rise. This aligns with broader AI-driven market expansion. Devices grow slower due to memory price hikes.Source 2

10

Consumers Demand AI Transparency and Shift to Joyful Low-Cost Purchases

WARC's trends report highlights demands for clear AI labeling amid macroeconomic uncertainty. Consumers prioritize intentional spending on joy-bringing items, influenced by employment anxiety. AI companions reduce loneliness effectively.Source 7