Short Wave 10 breakthrough technologies to expect in 2026
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Jan 16, 2026 
In this engaging discussion, Amy Nordrum, the Executive Editor at MIT Technology Review, shares insights on transformative tech trends. They delve into the rise of sodium-ion batteries, a greener alternative for electric vehicles. Private space stations are on the horizon, offering new research opportunities beyond NASA. Amy further explores personalized base editing for infants, raising both hopes and ethical dilemmas. Wrapping up with rapid-fire mentions, the conversation highlights other groundbreaking innovations shaping our future.
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Sodium-Ion Could Shake Up EV Batteries
- Sodium-ion batteries use abundant sodium instead of concentrated lithium and could ease supply risks.
- Scaling production could make EV batteries cheaper and more accessible over time.
Private Stations Expand Access To Space
- Private space stations will be smaller than the ISS but can open commercial access and new research.
- Companies aim to scale over time and offer luxury amenities for private astronauts and researchers.
Leverage Private Stations For Broader Research
- Use space commercialization to expand research and participation from new countries and companies.
- Private stations can enable pharmaceuticals and semiconductor research not easily done on the ISS.