The Download: Chicago’s surveillance network, and building better bras

MIT Technology Review

by Rhiannon Williams

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Chicago’s surveillance network has raised significant questions about public safety versus privacy rights. With an estimated 45,000 surveillance cameras, the city boasts one of the highest per capita rates in the U.S., along with a robust license plate reader system and access to audio and video feeds from various agencies like schools, parks, and transportation systems. While law enforcement credits this extensive monitoring for protecting public safety, critics argue it creates a “surveillance panopticon,” discouraging free behavior and violating privacy rights. This tension between security and civil liberties highlights the broader debate over technology’s role in modern governance. In a separate development, Joanna Wakefield-Scurr, a professor of biomechanics at the University of Portsmouth, has spent two decades researching breast health and developing better bras. Her work focuses on understanding how bras can provide optimal support, especially for women engaging in high-impact sports. Despite her lab’s growing demand, there remains a need for more research as the field evolves with advancements in biomechanics and materials science. This innovation not only addresses physical discomfort but also has implications for AI-driven health technologies. The newsletter also touches on other tech-related stories, including ICE’s detention plans, AI-backed cyberattacks in the UAE, and concerns about public perception of AI. Additionally, it explores how platforms like X are shaping political discourse and the challenges of data center construction. These topics underscore the far-reaching impact of technology on society, from privacy rights to global security and ethical AI deployment. For readers interested in AI, these stories highlight both the potential benefits and risks of technological advancements. The surveillance debate illustrates how AI tools can enhance public safety while also raising concerns about overreach and civil liberties. Similarly, innovations like biomechanical research demonstrate how AI could revolutionize health care but also require careful ethical consideration. Overall, the newsletter offers a snapshot of tech’s evolving role in shaping our world—whether through security systems, health technologies, or digital platforms. Understanding these trends

Verticals

aitechscience

Originally published on MIT Technology Review on 2/23/2026