HardTechnologyJanuary 2, 2026

Simple Tech Resolutions for 2026: Security and Wellbeing

EasyMediumHard|

Key Vocabulary

passkey

Meaning: a device-based credential for passwordless login
Example: Enable a passkey on accounts that support it.

password manager

Meaning: software that stores and fills login credentials securely
Example: A password manager can export your passwords.

two-factor

Meaning: an extra security check used when you sign in
Example: Enable two-factor methods for important accounts.

grayscale

Meaning: a display mode that removes colour to reduce temptation
Example: Switching to grayscale can make your phone less distracting.

export

Meaning: to save data out so you can move it elsewhere
Example: Export them before you lose access.

🎧 Listening

Simple Tech Resolutions for 2026: Security and Wellbeing

As 2026 begins, many people set tech resolutions that mix safety with calm. Commitments can be ambitious, yet the best plans are specific and reversible, otherwise people give up quickly. Choose a few goals that you will practise all month and then review.

One technical trend is wider use of passkeys, a form of passwordless login that is resistant to phishing and is being rolled out by major platforms and some government services. Microsoft has moved password tools into its Edge browser and removed password storage from its Authenticator app in 2025, a change that prompted users to export credentials. If you still rely on an app that will delete saved passwords, export them before you lose access; also adopt a password manager, enable two-factor methods, and try passkeys where they are available, so recovery steps are simpler. Some governments have begun pilot programs to adopt passkeys for official services.

For daily life, set tech-free hours and limit non-essential notifications; use focus modes or grayscale to reduce visual temptation, and schedule short app-free blocks to practise calm. A short social media break has been shown to improve mood and sleep for many people, so try one week and note how you feel. Also, keep software updated and enable automatic updates to close security holes.

Finally, plan small, measurable steps and build routines that fit your work and family life. If you succeed with modest changes, you will be more likely to keep stronger habits later, and your devices will feel less like a burden and more like useful tools. Consequently, you will spend less time fixing problems and more time using devices purposefully.

273 words

❓ Quiz

Q1. What should you do before you lose access to saved passwords?
Q2. What setting reduces visual temptation?
Q3. What tool should you adopt to store passwords?

📖 Reading Practice

Read the article from the Listening section aloud. Your AI teacher will give you pronunciation feedback.

💬 Discussion

1.

Do you believe small tech changes can improve your sleep? How?

2.

Have you ever exported data to move it to another app? What happened?

3.

What do you think about government services using passkeys?

4.

Would you try a one-week social media break? Why or why not?

5.

How would you feel if an app you use deleted saved passwords?