Platforms & Systems

January 2, 2026

1–2 minutes

Platforms & Systems

Big Tech Platforms
Enterprise Software
AI & Automation
GovTech & Civic Tech
SaaS & APIs

Instagram Declares the “Perfect Feed” Dead as AI Floods Social Media

Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, declares the end of the polished Instagram aesthetic due to the prevalence of AI-generated content, which has made perfection uninteresting. He cites a cultural shift towards authenticity and rawness, urging creators to focus on originality as trust in visuals declines. Social media is now competing on credibility, not aesthetics.

by Michael Phillips January 2, 2026

AI in 2026: From Hype Cycle to Hard Reality

As 2026 unfolds, artificial intelligence transitions from novelty to essential infrastructure, reshaping industries with AI agents managing workflows and automating tasks. Enterprises focus on accountability, cutting costs, and prioritizing ROI. Although AI systems advance, limitations persist, prompting greater governance and regulatory scrutiny as political implications arise. The workforce faces significant changes, favoring AI proficiency.

by Michael Phillips December 31, 2025January 2, 2026

Author

Written by

Michael Phillips

Michael Phillips is a journalist, writer, creator, advocate, IT consultant, musician, and proud father. He is the founder of REBUILT, The Thunder Report, and Father & Co., platforms dedicated to rebuilding lives, empowering fathers, and advocating for real change. Michael serves as the Editor-in-Chief of MDBayNews, The Thunder Report, and Father & Co., where he leads coverage across news, satire, family advocacy, and cultural commentary. His reporting and commentary have been published in the Washington Post, Baltimore Sun, and Maryland Daily Record, and he contributes regularly to TheFamilyCourtCircus.com, writing on issues ranging from family-court reform to civil rights to political analysis. With a career that bridges technology, journalism, advocacy, and the arts, Michael’s work is driven by a passion for truth, resilience, and giving voice to those overlooked by traditional systems. Whether he’s investigating a story, creating new digital tools, consulting on IT solutions, or writing music, he believes in building—and rebuilding—with purpose. Michael holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from James Madison University, as well as a Master of Science and Master of Business Administration from the University of Maryland. Member, National Writers Union (NWU), Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE)