**Big Tech** is a collective term that refers to the five dominant technology companies in the U.S.—**Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet (Google), Amazon, and Meta (formerly Facebook)**—which are among the largest and most influential firms globally by market capitalization and technological impact[1][2][5]. These companies shape numerous facets of modern life, including digital advertising, e-commerce, social media, cloud computing, and AI development, wielding significant influence over economies, consumer behavior, and public discourse worldwide[3][6]. Historically, the origins of Big Tech trace back to the late 20th century when IBM, Apple, and Microsoft led the IT industry. After the dot-com bubble burst, surviving startups expanded and evolved into the tech giants recognized today. The term "Big Tech" gained popularity around 2013 amid growing concerns about concentrated market power and regulatory oversight, intensifying after investigations into the 2016 U.S. elections highlighted how access to massive user data enabled these companies to influence users and public opinion[1]. Key achievements of Big Tech include pioneering innovations such as personal computing, cloud infrastructure, ubiquitous online platforms, and breakthroughs in artificial intelligence. Apple notably became the first company to reach a $3 trillion market capitalization in 2022, exemplifying the extraordinary financial success of these firms[2]. Additionally, Nvidia, once a smaller player, surged into prominence in the 2020s due to the AI boom, surpassing traditional Big Tech in market value[1]. Currently, Big Tech companies collectively represent about 7.5% of the total value of all publicly traded companies worldwide, with platforms reaching over a billion users each. Their unparalleled access to global populations positions them as potentially transformative forces for sustainability and inclusion if aligned with broader social goals[4]. However, their dominance has sparked debates over privacy, data control, competition, and calls for regulation to prevent monopolistic practices and protect consumer interests[6][7]. In summary, Big Tec