Dan Houser Discusses Victorian Novels, Red Dead Redemption, and the Evolution of Open-World Gaming

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

I It’s challenging to find a more contemporary form of entertainment than open-world video games. Merging storytelling, social interaction, and the freedom to roam, these expansive technological projects offer a uniquely immersive experience with infinite possibilities. But do they truly embody novel concepts in storytelling?

This week, I had a conversation with Dan Hauser, co-founder of Rockstar and the lead writer for Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption. He was in London discussing his new venture, Absurd Ventures. He’s working on a range of exciting projects, including a novel and a podcast series titled better paradise (which delves into a vast online game that ends in tragedy), as well as a comedic quest set in an online universe known as absurd verse. He mentioned that he had an epiphany regarding the series 15 years ago while giving press interviews for the Grand Theft Auto IV expansion pack.

“I was conversing with a journalist from Paris Match, a very learned French individual, who stated, ‘The game Grand Theft Auto is akin to Dickens.’ I thought, bless you for saying that! However, in retrospect, they may not reach Dickensian heights, but they’re comparable in that they create worlds. When you examine Dickens, Zola, Tolstoy—any of those authors—you sense that the entire world they describe is magnificent. This is an open world. That’s the experience you seek from the game. It’s a bizarre prism through which to view a society that somehow becomes fascinating.”

A whole new world…an absurd world. Photo: Absurd Ventures/X

I found it incredibly engaging to discuss this concept with Hauser, as I concur that there are notable parallels between Victorian literature and contemporary narrative-driven video games. The extensive descriptive passages in these works served as a form of virtual reality, evoking vivid imagery in readers’ minds well before the advent of cinema. It’s wholly immersive. When I first read Jane Eyre a decade ago, I was struck by the richness of the inner thoughts presented, inviting readers to explore the main character’s psyche.

Hauser also noted structural resemblances to Grand Theft Auto. “There’s a sense of an expanded storytelling akin to the remarkable 19th-century novels from Thackeray onward,” he explained. “These stories can be viewed as shaggy dog tales that culminate at a single moment. They are deeply realistic; they contain a grounded progression rather than jumping around in time. The games are similarly grounded in that sense.”

For Hauser, this synthesis of Victorian literature and game design came to fruition with the creation of Red Dead Redemption 2, Rockstar’s magnum opus and a poignant narrative of vengeance set in late 19th century America. “I consumed Victorian novels,” he shared. “I listened to the Middlemarch audiobook daily during my commute, and I loved every moment.” He faced challenges in striking the right tone for the dialogue, ultimately finding inspiration in blending Middlemarch, Sherlock Holmes, and Cowboy Pulp Fiction.

“I listened to the Middlemarch audiobook every day on my way to and from the office,” Dan Hauser said. Photo: Chelsea Guglielmino/Getty Images

“From a writing perspective, I wanted it to feel more like a novel,” he remarked. “We believed this approach could yield something innovative story-wise. Given how visually stunning the game is and its strong art design, we aimed to anchor the narrative in a solid context. Our goal was to encapsulate the three-dimensionality of the characters’ lives while also portraying a sense of life and death in the 19th century, which is fundamentally different from our own experience.”

It’s fascinating to see how Victorian literature significantly influenced Rockstar’s acclaimed adventures. The gaming industry often feels inward-looking, with new titles being slightly modified iterations of successful older games, recycling the same fantasy and science fiction narratives. Drawing on Tolkien, Akira, or Blade Runner isn’t inherently problematic, but broadening one’s literary horizons is always beneficial. I eagerly anticipate how Hauser’s new endeavor will transform the notion of open-world gaming in the 21st century, yet part of me wishes he would fully embrace the adventure of a grand Victorian novel.

Forget Pride and Prejudice and Zombies; perhaps it’s time for Middlemarch and Machine Guns.

what to play

Gorgeous atmosphere… “Metroid Prime 4 Beyond”. Photo: Nintendo

Eighteen years have elapsed since the last installment of “Metroid Prime.” In that time, people have been born, attended school, completed exams, and faced their first hangovers since I last explored a mysterious planet through Samus Aran’s visor. I’ve played quite a bit of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond for fans of Nintendo’s fierce (but often overlooked) heroes. I reviewed it this week and I’m pleased to report it wasn’t a disaster. While it’s somewhat uneven and carries an old-fashioned feel, it boasts a stunning atmosphere that is visually and audibly captivating and is genuinely fun. The gameplay resonates with me because it adheres to unconventional modern game design principles. keza mcdonald

Available: Nintendo Switch/Switch 2

Estimated play time: 15-20 hours

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what to read

Could Shadow be highlighted in Paramount’s upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog spin-off? Photo: Paramount Pictures and Sega of America, Inc.

Sega enthusiasts rejoice: Paramount Pictures has announced a Sonic the Hedgehog movie spin-off (or should it be a spin-off Dash?) As reported by Variety, this project, currently dubbed “Sonic Universe Event Film,” is set to release on December 22, 2028, shortly after Sonic the Hedgehog 4, slated for March 2027. Perhaps there will be a new journey for Sonic’s rival, Shadow the Hedgehog? I might be alone in this, but I’m excited about Big the Cat’s fishing adventure.
The Information Commissioner’s Office, the UK’s independent data protection and information rights regulator, is currently investigating 10 Most Popular Mobile Games to focus on children’s privacy. According to the organization’s blog, “84% of parents are worried about their children being exposed to strangers and harmful content via mobile games.” This scrutiny follows recent controversies surrounding Roblox.
As someone inundated with around 200 press releases weekly about this genre, I found this piece relatable. Rock, Paper, Shotgun elaborates on the seemingly unstoppable emergence of roguelike games. Edwin Evans-Thirlwell interviews developers to uncover the reasons behind the popularity of games featuring the three Ps: procedural generation, (character) progression, and permadeath.

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question block

Using power…Dishonored 2. Photo: Steam Powered

Keza answers this week’s reader inquiries from Tom:

“I was reflecting on a recent question block about non-violent games and thought, are there games that maintain violent elements but still provide alternative paths to completion? I adored Red Dead Redemption 2, yet was frustrated that firearms were often the only means to resolve conflicts. I’ve seen countless amusing videos of players attempting to finish inherently violent games without bloodshed, highlighting a desire for pacifism.”

I distinctly remember playing the original Splinter Cell on Xbox, where the protagonist opts for a non-lethal approach by incapacitating foes rather than killing them. While it took me a long time to navigate, it was indeed a viable path offered by the game. The steampunk classic Dishonored and its sequel are known for allowing players to wrap up their quests without resorting to lethal force, utilizing supernatural abilities to manipulate their surroundings. However, if memory serves, choosing the pacifist route does make the game considerably harder.

In fact, most stealth games permit a non-violent approach, though few specifically reward players for sparing lives. One notable exception is the beloved comic-inspired adventure Undertale, where players can ultimately engage monsters in dialogue instead of combat. I also believe it’s feasible to play through both original Fallout titles (possibly even Fallout: New Vegas) without killing anyone, should players possess enough charisma to navigate tough scenarios through dialogue.

We’re still accepting nominations for Game of the Year for our year-end special – let us know by. Email us at pushbuttons@theguardian.com.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Three Key Factors That Likely Shaped the Moon’s Formation in Earth’s Early History

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

The moon may have had a more intricate formation than previously believed.

NASA/NOAA

Recent theories suggest that multiple collisions with Earth might better elucidate the Moon’s origin than the traditionally accepted single massive impact 4.5 billion years ago, potentially addressing one of its greatest enigmas.

Tracing the Moon’s origin has proven challenging. The prevailing theory is that it formed early in the solar system’s evolution due to a catastrophic collision between Earth and Theia, a Mars-sized body, and its formation likely originated closer to the sun than Earth’s current position. This impact would have expelled debris that ultimately coalesced into the large natural satellite we recognize today. At that period, matter around the sun was highly intermixed, making collisions frequent.

However, this prevailing model encounters complications, as the chemical compositions of Earth and the Moon are remarkably similar, suggesting that the Moon should retain more material from Theia than our planet does. “This presents a significant dilemma for the standard model,” comments Philip Carter, a researcher at the University of Bristol, UK.

Carter and his team propose a paradigm shift, suggesting that a series of impacts with Earth over millions of years may provide a more coherent explanation for the compositional similarities between Earth and the Moon. They propose that three or more significant impacts in the early solar system, involving bodies from the size of the modern Moon to those approaching Mars in size, could account for the Moon’s creation as we observe it today.

In this revised model, each impact creates smaller moons, known as microsatellites, orbiting Earth. Over eons, these smaller bodies would progressively merge under gravitational attraction, forming a singular large entity. “They will be drawn to one another and collide,” explains Carter. “The probability of sustaining a stable system with multiple large moonlets is exceedingly low.”

Previous models also posited multiple impacts as the origin of the Moon; however, they typically required a more rigorous series of impacts than this current framework. “After three significant collisions, we introduced sufficient mass into orbit to form a full Moon,” stated Carter.

Robert Citron, a researcher at the Southwest Research Institute in Colorado, suggests that fewer impacts might be more favorable since too many collisions could displace smaller satellites from Earth’s orbit and hinder Moon formation. However, as more impacts occur, the compositional alignment between Earth and the Moon increases, accurately reflecting their current similarities. “When multiple impacts are involved, you are averaging out more influencing factors,” Citron notes.

The unique relationship between Earth and the Moon underscores the necessity of understanding the Moon’s formation. “It is a remarkably distinctive satellite,” Citron emphasizes. “Its size relative to Earth is vast, whereas the moons of Mars appear minuscule in comparison to Mars, and the moons of gas giants are diminutive compared to their planets.”

Establishing which hypothesis is correct necessitates more intricate modeling to assess the impact’s intensity on Earth and the volume of material expelled. Carter remarks, “Calculating all these details remains exceedingly complex.” He adds, “Personally, I prefer the multi-impact model over the traditional single-impact theory.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

India Cancels Directive on Preloading State-Owned Security Apps on Smartphones

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

The Indian government has rescinded an order that mandated all smartphones to include a state-owned security application, following widespread protests concerning privacy issues and resistance from tech companies.

The Ministry of Telecommunications has announced the cancellation of a previous mandate requiring technology firms to integrate the government’s Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app on all smartphones sold in India within a 90-day timeframe.

This order ignited a political uproar, with major tech giants, including Apple and Google, indicating their refusal to comply, citing privacy worries. In a statement released Wednesday, the government confirmed that it had “chosen not to mandate mobile phone manufacturers to pre-install it.”

The government emphasized that the app, designed to enable users to block and track lost or stolen devices and report fraudulent calls, is “secure and solely intended to help citizens combat the ‘bad actors’.”

The initial mandate, which was quietly communicated to tech companies last week, quickly drew backlash as internet privacy advocates and political opposition parties voiced concerns over its potential for mass surveillance.

Apple and Google, speaking anonymously to the media, asserted that tech firms would oppose the mandate due to privacy concerns impacting their operating systems and contradicting internal policies.

Protests erupted in Parliament on Wednesday, with opposition lawmakers accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration of infringing on citizens’ fundamental right to privacy.

Randeep Singh Surjewala from the opposition Indian National Congress party warned that the app “could function as a kill switch, turning all mobile phones into non-functional devices, potentially used against journalists, opposition leaders, and dissenters at the government’s discretion.”

Similar concerns arose after the Russian government mandated the installation of an app named Max on all smartphones in August, leading to accusations of potential mass surveillance.

In response to the backlash, Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia clarified that the Sanchar Saathi app was optional and removable, which contradicted the original directive.

“In a democracy, every citizen has that right, so you can uninstall it just like any other application. No snooping will be possible with this app,” he stated.

The government’s decision to withdraw the order was welcomed by online rights and privacy advocacy groups. “At this moment, until formal legal guidance is released and independently verified, this should be viewed as cautious optimism rather than a definitive resolution,” commented the Internet Freedom Foundation.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Political Backlash Erupts Over India’s Mandate to Preload State-Owned Apps on Smartphones

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

Protests have ignited across India as the government has mandated major tech firms to install state-operated applications on smartphones, prompting concerns over potential surveillance among opposition leaders and activists.

Companies such as Apple, Samsung, and Xiomi are required to comply within 90 days by preloading Sanchar Saathi (Telecom Partner) on all mobile devices sold in India.

New devices must have the app pre-installed, while those already on the market will need a software update to include it. The Indian government has downplayed privacy concerns, stating that Sanchar Saathi “will not automatically collect certain personal information from you without your consent within the application.”

Apple is reportedly one of the primary tech companies resisting this order, while other major players have not yet publicly addressed the issue, as reported by Reuters.

Marketed as a tool for citizen safety, the app enables users to block and locate lost or stolen phones, check the number of mobile connections linked to their identity, and helps identify and disconnect fraudulent numbers associated with scams.

Additionally, it allows users to report suspected fraudulent calls, verify the legitimacy of used devices, and ensure they haven’t been stolen prior to purchase.

The directive was covertly issued to mobile manufacturers by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration last week.

Once this information became public, the Ministry of Telecommunications confirmed it as a security step to address the “serious risks” of cybersecurity and fraud in India, while also regulating the country’s second-hand mobile market.

This has sparked backlash from opposition parties and digital rights advocates, who argue that it provides the government unrestricted access to the nation’s 730 million smartphones, enabling tracking of citizens through their devices.

KC Venugopal, a leader from the opposition National Congress Party, stated that his party would protest against the “dystopian” decision, asserting: “Big Brother cannot keep tabs on us.”

The Internet Freedom Foundation expressed its determination to “strive until this directive is annulled.”

Priyanka Gandhi, fellow Congress party leader, criticized the initiative as a “spy app” that undermines the fundamental right to privacy of citizens.

Sources indicate that Apple intends to resist the mandate, citing significant safety concerns. Company officials, who wished to remain anonymous, highlighted that internal policies prevent Apple from complying with such directives globally due to potential security and privacy risks to its iOS system. Apple did not provide a formal comment.

According to the app’s privacy policy, iPhone users will be prompted to allow access to their camera, photos, and files. Android users, who represent 95% of India’s smartphone users, will need to share call logs, allow registration messages, manage calls “to identify mobile numbers in their phones,” and grant access to their cameras and photos.

It was initially reported that the government had instructed tech companies not to disable the app. However, in a speech on Tuesday, Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia refuted this. “It’s your choice to keep it on your device,” he stated. “You can uninstall it just like any other app.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Sam Altman Declares ‘Code Red’ for OpenAI Amidst ChatGPT’s Growing Competition

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

Sam Altman has issued a “code red” for OpenAI to enhance ChatGPT amid strong competition from other chatbots.

In a recent report from the technology news site Information, the CEO of the San Francisco-based startup informed staff in an internal memo: “We are at a critical time for ChatGPT.”

OpenAI is feeling the pressure from the success of Gemini 3, Google’s latest AI model, and is allocating additional resources to improve ChatGPT.

Last month, Altman informed employees that the launch of Gemini 3 had outperformed competitors. According to various benchmarks, this could result in “temporary economic headwinds” for companies. He added, “I expect the global atmosphere to remain stormy for some time.”

While OpenAI’s flagship product boasts 800 million weekly users, Google benefits from a profitable search business along with vast data and financial resources for its AI initiatives.

Sam Altman. Photo: Jose Luis Magaña/AP

Marc Benioff, CEO of the $220bn (£166bn) software company Salesforce, stated last month that he plans to switch to Gemini 3 and “never look back” after testing Google’s newest AI release.

“I’ve been using ChatGPT every day for three years. I just spent two hours on Gemini 3. I’m not going back. The leap is insane. Reasoning, speed, images, video… everything is clearer and faster. I feel like the world has changed again,” he remarked on X.

OpenAI is also scaling back its advertising efforts on ChatGPT as it prioritizes improvements to the chatbot, which recently celebrated its third anniversary.

Nick Turley, the head of ChatGPT, marked the anniversary with a post on X, committing to further innovations for the product.

“Our focus now is to further enhance ChatGPT’s capabilities, making it more intuitive and personal while continuing to grow and expand access worldwide. Thank you for an incredible three years. We have much work ahead!”

Despite not having the same cash flow support as rivals like Google, Meta, and Amazon, who fund competitor Anthropic, OpenAI has garnered substantial investments from firms like SoftBank Investment Group and Microsoft. At its latest valuation, OpenAI reached $500 billion, a significant increase from $157 billion last October.

OpenAI is currently operating at a loss but anticipates annual revenue to surpass $20 billion by year’s end, with Altman projecting that it will “grow to hundreds of billions.” The startup plans to allocate $1.4 trillion in data center costs over the next eight years to develop and maintain AI systems, aiming for rapid revenue growth.

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“Considering the trends in AI usage and demand, we believe the risk of insufficient computing power at OpenAI is more significant and likely than the risk of excess computing power,” Altman stated last month.

Apple has also reacted to rising competitive pressure in the sector by appointing a new vice president of AI. John Gianandrea will be succeeded by Microsoft executive Amar Subramanya.

The company has been slow to integrate AI features into its products, while competitors like Samsung have been quicker to upgrade their devices with AI capabilities.

Subramanya comes to Apple from Microsoft, where he last served as vice president of AI. He previously spent 16 years at Google, including as head of engineering for the Gemini assistant.

Earlier this year, Apple announced that enhancements to its voice assistant Siri would be postponed until 2026.

Source: www.theguardian.com

YouTube Aligns with Australia’s Under-16 Social Media Ban; Lemon8 Implements Access Restrictions

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

YouTube will fall under the federal government’s ban on social media for users under 16, but its parent company Google has stated that the law “fails to ensure teens’ safety online” and “misunderstands” the way young people engage with the internet.

Communications Minister Annika Wells responded by emphasizing that YouTube must maintain a safe platform, describing Google’s concerns as “absolutely bizarre.”

In a related development, Guardian Australia has reported that Lemon8, a recently popular social media app not affected by the ban, will implement a restriction of users to those over 16 starting next week. The eSafety Commissioner has previously indicated that the app will be closely scrutinized for any potential bans.

Before Mr. Wells’ address at the National Press Club on Wednesday, Google announced it would start signing out minor users from its platform on December 10. However, the company cautioned that this might result in children and their parents losing access to safety features.

Initially, Google opposed the inclusion of YouTube, which had been omitted from the framework, in the ban and hinted it might pursue legal action. Nevertheless, the statement released on Wednesday did not provide further details on that front, and Google officials did not offer any comments.

Rachel Lord, Google’s senior manager of Australian public policy, stated in a blog post that users under 16 could view YouTube videos while logged out, but they would lose access to features that require signed-in accounts, such as “subscriptions, playlists, likes,” and standard health settings like “breaks” and bedtime reminders.

Additionally, the company warned that parents “will no longer be able to manage their teens’ or children’s accounts on YouTube,” including blocking certain channels in content settings.

Mr. Lord commented, “This rushed regulation misunderstands our platform and how young Australians use it. Most importantly, this law does not fulfill its promise of making children safer online; rather, it will render Australian children less safe on YouTube.”

While Lord did not address potential legal actions, they expressed commitment to finding more effective methods to safeguard children online.

Wells mentioned at the National Press Club that parents could adjust controls and safety settings on YouTube Kids, which is not included in the ban.

“It seems odd that YouTube frequently reminds us how unsafe the platform is when logged out. If YouTube asserts that its content is unsuitable for age-restricted users, it must address that issue,” she remarked.

Annika Wells will address the National Press Club on Wednesday. Photo: Mick Tsikas/AAP

Mr. Wells also acknowledged that the implementation of the government’s under-16 social media ban could take “days or even weeks” to properly enforce.

“While we understand it won’t be perfect immediately, we are committed to refining our platform,” Wells stated.

Wells commended the advocacy of families affected by online bullying or mental health crises, asserting that the amendments would “shield Generation Alpha from the peril of predatory algorithms.” She suggested that social media platforms intentionally target teens to maximize engagement and profits.

“These companies hold significant power, and we are prepared to reclaim that authority for the welfare of young Australians beginning December 10,” asserted Mr. Wells.

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Meta has informed users of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, along with Snapchat, about forthcoming changes. Upon reaching out to Guardian Australia, a Reddit spokesperson mentioned that they had no new information. Meanwhile, X, TikTok, YouTube, and Kick have not publicly clarified their compliance with the law nor responded to inquiries.

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Platforms that do not take appropriate measures to exclude users under 16 may incur fines of up to $50 million. Concerns have been raised about the timing and execution of the ban, including questions about the age verification process, and at least one legal challenge is in progress.

The government believes it is essential to signal to parents and children the importance of avoiding social media, even if some minors may manage to bypass the restrictions.

Wells explained that it would take time to impose $50 million fines on tech companies, noting that the e-safety commissioner will request information from platforms about their efforts to exclude underage users starting December 11, and will scrutinize data on a monthly basis.

At a press conference in Adelaide on Tuesday, Mr. Wells anticipated that additional platforms would be included in the under-16 ban if children were to migrate to sites not currently on the list.

She advised the media to “stay tuned” for updates regarding the Instagram-like app Lemon8, which is not subject to the ban. Guardian Australia understands that the eSafety Commission has communicated with Lemon8, owned by TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, indicating that the platform will be monitored for potential future inclusion once the plan is enacted.

Guardian Australia can confirm that Lemon8 will restrict its user base to those over 16 starting December 10.

“If platforms like LinkedIn become hubs of online bullying, targeting 13- to 16-year-olds and affecting their mental and physical health, we will address that issue,” Wells stated on Tuesday.

“That’s why all platforms are paying attention. We need to be prompt and flexible.”

Australian crisis support services lifeline is available at 13 11 14. In the UK and Ireland, you can reach Samaritan via freephone 116 123 or by email at jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In the US, contact the 988 Lifeline for suicide and crisis at 988 or via chat at 988lifeline.org. For further international helplines, visit: befrienders.org

Source: www.theguardian.com

“Sleep Awake” Review – Gary Numan Makes a Brief Appearance in This Overly Simplistic, Sleep-Deprived Horror

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

Video games in 2025 offered a plethora of unique and spectacular experiences, from a whimsical world brimming with magical creatures to an impressively detailed depiction of feudal Japan. Yet, as the year winds down, some intriguing highlights emerge. The psychological horror title “Sleep Awake” centers around synth rock innovator Gary Numan, who takes on the rather dull role of a colossal floating head known as Hypnos.

This unexpected cameo doesn’t fully represent the overall tone of the game. The hours leading to Numan’s appearance are filled with melancholy rather than chaos. Players navigate through the decaying streets of what may be the final city on Earth. This setting showcases a remarkable level of creativity. The story unfolds through the perspective of a young woman named Katya, who traverses rooftops, surveys the desolate wasteland, and delves into convoluted alleyways. The darkness and surreal logic echo the haunting underground engravings of Italian artist Piranesi.

How did Earth become so uninhabitable, leading to the extinction of life? That’s a mystery we’ll never uncover. Instead, Katya grapples with immediate dangers. Falling asleep poses a threat of vanishing into a bizarre, unreachable realm due to a condition known as Hush. Like others endlessly fatigued in this world, Katya instills arousal serum drops into her eyes. Instantly, she is flooded with psychedelic visions and a riot of colors. It appears her plans are slipping away, much like everyone else’s. The remnants of society have been obliterated by the sleep-deprived paranoia of rival factions.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/rH5LhpfOZSs?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Sleep Awake – Reveal Trailer | PS5 Games" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

Initially driven by a desire to care for an aging relative, Katya navigates the game’s haunting, decaying environments from a first-person viewpoint. At one stage, you find yourself on a cultist’s territory, wearing a gas mask, prompting you to sneak past them by crouching under walls or surfaces to stay out of sight. But the tension is minimal; enemies follow predictable patrol paths with extremely wide detection ranges. Ultimately, this makes for a lackluster game of hide and seek.

“Sleep Awake” further disappoints in its gameplay innovation. Tasks include rolling a cart to short-circuit an electrical breaker and locating conveniently placed keycards to unlock doors. Gradually, the city’s illumination fades, revealing that you are progressing through a beautifully adorned tunnel. Surprisingly, this tunnel resembles an amusement park ghost train—light, engaging, but not particularly frightening.

This is unfortunate because “Sleep Awake” is visually striking. The exploration is interspersed with dark yet gorgeous FMV sequences, showcasing eerie silhouettes of trees against a blood-red sky and showcasing bubbling liquids in extreme close-up. At times, these unsettling visuals blend seamlessly with actual 3D environments, achieving a beautifully surreal arthouse aesthetic. This surreal vibe extends to the death screens, where being struck in the head by an enemy causes you to step out of darkness toward a brilliantly lit door. As you do so, the space morphs in real-time, resembling a hallucination, culminating in an auto-save.

The death screen stands out as a rare instance where “Sleep Awake” captures something reminiscent of dream logic and the peculiar, blurred moments between states of wakefulness and sleep. Most of the time, this narcoleptic nightmare merely showcases its psychedelic aesthetics (complete with the floating Numan), lacking interactive depth. Overall, it’s too straightforward and lacks intrigue in critical areas. You might find yourself ready to sleep now.

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Source: www.theguardian.com

Tesla Cautions UK: Easing EV Regulations Could Impact Sales Negatively

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

Tesla has notified the UK government that loosening electric vehicle regulations could negatively impact battery car sales and hinder the achievement of carbon targets, as highlighted in recently disclosed documents.

Elon Musk’s electric vehicle manufacturer also requested “support for the used car market,” as per a government consultation submission acquired earlier this year. fast charging, a newsletter focused on electric vehicles.

In April, the Labor government raised concerns among some electric car manufacturers by relaxing rules known as the zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate. Previously, this mandate aimed to increase EV sales annually, but the new loophole allowed manufacturers to sell more gasoline and diesel vehicles.

Critics argue that a new tax on electric vehicles introduced in last week’s budget may further dampen demand.

Automakers such as BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, Nissan, and Toyota, all operating factories in the UK, expressed in their submissions during the spring consultation that the mandate was discouraging investment, as they were selling electric vehicles at a loss. In contrast, environmentalists and brands focusing primarily on electric vehicles assert that the rules are serving their intended purpose, with no manufacturers expected to be penalized for 2024 sales.

Tesla emphasized that avoiding new loopholes referred to as “flexibilities” was “essential” for the success of electric vehicle sales.

According to Tesla, these changes could “diminish the availability of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), significantly impact emissions, and jeopardize the UK’s carbon budget.”

Prime Minister Rachel Reeves has committed to imposing a “pay-per-mile” charge on electric vehicles from 2028, warning manufacturers of even stricter budgets to come. This could make electric vehicles less appealing compared to more polluting petrol and diesel options. Simultaneously, she announced an extension of subsidies for new electric vehicles, which was positively received by the industry.

Tom Reilly, author of Fast Charge, remarked: “Just as the shift to EVs seemed stable, the Budget has pulled it in two different directions, effectively taking from Peter to pay Paul. If car manufacturers seek mitigation obligations again, Labor will only be held accountable when climate targets are not met.”

Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, and Ford expressed concern about their responses being made public and were only permitted to reply through appeals under the Freedom of Information Act. Several documents were extensively redacted, yet the headline still indicated Tesla’s call for “support for the used car market.” Tesla opted not to comment on whether this assistance would involve subsidies.

Conversely, U.S. manufacturer Ford and Germany’s Mercedes-Benz are advocating against stricter regulations after 2030, which would require them to further lower average carbon dioxide emissions, allowing them to continue selling polluting vehicles longer.

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Ford has strongly criticized European governments for retracting support for electric vehicle sales, stating, “Policymakers in various European regions are not adhering to the agreement.” Ford had previously backed stronger goals but has since changed its position.

U.S. automakers also highlighted the risk of being overshadowed by Chinese manufacturers, which “lack a foothold in the UK and benefit from lower costs.”

Mercedes-Benz contends that the UK should lower the value-added tax on public charging, which is equivalent to household electricity, from 20% to 5%, and suggests that a price cap on public charging fees should be considered.

Additionally, Tesla advocated for banning the sale of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles with a battery-only range of less than 160 miles starting in 2030, a rule that would exclude many of the best-selling models in this category.

Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and Tesla chose not to provide further comments.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Examining Anti-Immigrant Themes in AI-Generated Content with Billions of TikTok Views

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

Numerous TikTok accounts are accumulating billions of views by sharing anti-immigrant and sexually explicit AI-generated material, as highlighted in a recent report.

Researchers found 354 accounts centered around AI that shared 43,000 posts created with AI tools, resulting in 4.5 billion views in just one month.

As per the Paris-based nonprofit AI Forensics, these accounts are attempting to manipulate TikTok’s algorithm—responsible for deciding what content appears for users—by posting large volumes of content in hopes of achieving viral status.

Some accounts reportedly posted as many as 70 times daily, indicative of automated activity, with most accounts established at the start of the year.

TikTok disclosed last month that it hosted at least 1.3 billion AI-generated posts. With more than 100 million pieces of content uploaded daily, AI-labeled material constitutes a minor fraction of TikTok’s offerings. Users can also adjust settings to minimize exposure to AI content.

Among the most active accounts, around half focused on content related to women’s bodies. The report notes, “These AI representations of women are often depicted in stereotypically attractive forms, which include suggestive clothing and cleavage.”

Research from AI Forensics indicated that nearly half of the content posted by these accounts lacked labels, and under 2% used TikTok’s AI tags. The organization cautioned that this could mislead viewers. They noted that some accounts can evade TikTok’s moderation for months, even while distributing content that violates the platform’s terms.

Several accounts identified in the study have been deleted recently, with signs suggesting that moderators removed them, according to the researchers.

Some of this content resembled fake news broadcast segments. An example is an anti-immigrant story and other materials that sexualize young women’s bodies, potentially including minors. AI Forensics identified that half of the top ten most active accounts were focused on the female body niche, with some of the fake news utilizing familiar news brands including Sky News and ABC.

After a mention by The Guardian, some posts were subsequently taken down by TikTok.

TikTok labeled the report’s assertions as “unfounded,” asserting that the researchers acknowledged the issue as one affecting several platforms. Recently, The Guardian revealed that almost one in ten of the fastest-growing YouTube channels primarily features AI-generated content.

“TikTok is committed to eliminating harmful AIGC [artificial intelligence-generated content], we are blocking the creation of hundreds of millions of bot accounts while investing in top-notch AI labeling technology, and providing users with the tools and education necessary to manage their content experience on our platform,” declared a TikTok spokesperson.

An example of AI “slop” is content that lacks substance and is intended to clutter social media timelines. Photo: TikTok

The most viewed accounts flagged by AI Forensics often shared “slop,” a term used to describe AI-generated content that is trivial, odd, and meant to disturb users’ feeds. This includes postings such as animals in Olympic diving or talking babies. Researchers noted that while some of the risqué content was deemed “funny” and “adorable,” it still contributes to the clutter.

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TikTok’s policies forbid the use of AI to create deceptive authoritative sources, portray anyone under 18, or depict adults who aren’t public figures.

“Through this investigation, we illustrate how automated accounts integrate AI content into platforms and the broader virality framework,” the researchers noted.

“The distinction between genuine human-generated content and artificial AI-produced material on platforms is becoming increasingly indistinct, indicating a trend towards greater AI-generated content in users’ feeds.”

The analysis spanned from mid-August to mid-September, uncovering attempts to monetize users via the advertisement of health supplements through fictitious influencers, the promotion of tools for creating viral AI content, or seeking sponsorships for posts.

While AI Forensics acknowledged TikTok’s recent move to allow users to restrict AI content visibility, they emphasized the need for improved labeling.

“We remain cautious about the effectiveness of this feature, given the significant and persistent challenges associated with identifying such content,” they expressed.

The researchers recommended that TikTok explore the option of developing AI-specific features within its app to differentiate AI-generated content from that produced by humans. “Platforms should aim to transcend superficial or arbitrary ‘AI content’ labels and develop robust methods that either distinctly separate generated and human-created content or enforce systematic and clear labeling of AI-generated material,” they concluded.

Source: www.theguardian.com

A Dementia Vaccine May Be Possible, and Some Individuals Might Have Already Received It Unwittingly

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

A recent investigation by Stanford University in the US suggests that the shingles vaccine may decrease the risk of dementia by 20 percent or slow its progression after diagnosis.

If these results are validated in future research, there is already a vaccine available that could help in preventing and managing dementia, affecting an estimated 57 million individuals globally.

In a study published in Nature, scientists reviewed the health data of over 280,000 adults aged 71 to 88 in Wales to assess the shingles vaccination program initiated in 2013.

The research revealed that older adults (ages 79 to 80) who had received the shingles vaccine were 20 percent less likely to develop dementia by 2020 when compared to those who were ineligible for the vaccine.

The senior author, Dr. Pascal Gerdsetzer, an assistant professor of medicine at Stanford University, described the findings as “really surprising,” adding that there was a significant protective signal evident from the data.

Furthermore, a recent follow-up study published in Cell indicated that the shingles vaccine seemed to offer protection even to individuals diagnosed with dementia as early as 2013.

Among the 7,049 Welsh adults with dementia who participated in the research, nearly half succumbed within the subsequent nine years. In contrast, only 30% of those vaccinated against shingles passed away.

“What’s particularly intriguing is that this suggests the shingles vaccine not only prevents or delays dementia but also holds therapeutic promise for those already diagnosed,” Gerdsetzer noted.

Illustration of the varicella-zoster virus that causes chickenpox and shingles – Credit: Getty Images

Previous research had indicated a potential connection between the shingles vaccine and dementia prevention, but these findings were often confounded by the fact that vaccinated individuals typically lead healthier lifestyles (implying that the dementia protection might originate from other factors).

However, in this particular study, bias was minimized as the vaccination program specifically targeted individuals who were 79 years old on September 1, 2013.

“We know that if you take 1,000 random individuals born within a week of each other and compare them to 1,000 individuals born a week later, on average, there should be no differences,” Gertsetzer explained. “Aside from the slight age variation, they are essentially alike.”

Essentially, the researchers could directly analyze two groups born just a week apart and with an identical mix of health-conscious individuals. The primary difference was their eligibility for the vaccine, streamlining the assessment of the vaccine’s efficacy against dementia.

Shingles is an infection caused by the Varicella zoster virus—the same agent responsible for chickenpox. Symptoms can include a painful rash, a burning or prickling sensation, headaches, fever, and fatigue.

While the virus impacts the nervous system, scientists are still unclear about the exact mechanisms through which the shingles vaccine protects the brain from cognitive decline.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Study Suggests Life First Emerged in Surface-Bound Prebiotic Gels

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

In a new study published in the journal Chemical Systems Chemistry, Professor Tony Jia and his team at Hiroshima University have proposed a “prebiotic gel-first” framework. This framework explores how the origins of life might arise within gels adhering to surfaces. The authors also consider the potential existence of “xenophiles,” meaning alien biofilm-like structures that may be extraterrestrial or consist of various terrestrial components. They emphasize the importance of agnostic life detection strategies in the quest for both known and unknown forms of life.

An artist’s impression of a prebiotic gel on the surface of early Earth. Image credit: Nirmell Satthiyasilan.

“The question of how life began has intrigued humanity for ages,” remarked Professor Jia and his co-authors.

“While no one can journey back in time to witness the inception of life, scientists are continually piecing together plausible narratives from chemistry, physics, and geology.”

“Contrary to many theories that concentrate solely on the role of biomolecules and biopolymers, our theory incorporates the significance of gels in the origin of life.”

Within this newly proposed prebiotic gel-first framework, the researchers hypothesize that life could have emerged within gel matrices affixed to surfaces—adhesive, semi-solid substances that possess traits reminiscent of today’s microbial biofilms, which are thin layers of bacteria thriving on rocks, pond surfaces, and even human-made structures.

By integrating insights from soft matter chemistry and contemporary biology, they suggest that such primitive gels may have provided essential structure and functionality for increasingly sophisticated early chemical systems, long before the advent of the first cells.

Prebiotic gels may have addressed crucial hurdles in pre-living chemistry by trapping and organizing molecules, enabling concentration, selective retention, and environmental buffering.

Within these gels, primitive chemical systems may have developed early metabolism and self-replicating behaviors, paving the way for biological evolution.

“This is merely one theory among numerous others within the extensive field of origin-of-life research,” stated Dr. Kuhan Chandru from the Space Science Center at the National University of Malaysia.

“Yet, the significance of gels has been largely overlooked; thus, we aimed to synthesize fragmented research into a cohesive narrative that places primitive gels at the center of discourse.”

Scientists have extended this concept into astrobiology, proposing that similar gel-like systems could exist on other planets.

These possible “xeno-membranes” may serve as non-terrestrial analogues of biofilms and consist of unique chemical components specific to each region.

This viewpoint suggests that the structures themselves, rather than specific chemicals, could be the next focus for life-detection missions, expanding the methods by which astrobiologists can search for life beyond Earth.

The authors now plan to validate their model experimentally by investigating how simple chemical gels formed under early Earth conditions and what properties they imparted to emerging chemical systems.

Dr. Ramona Khanum, also from the Space Science Center at the National University of Malaysia, expressed: “We hope our research will inspire others in the field to investigate this and other unresolved theories concerning the origin of life.”

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Ramona Khanum et al. Prebiotic gel as the cradle of life. Chemical Systems Chemistry, published online on November 19, 2025. doi: 10.1002/syst.202500038

Source: www.sci.news

Archaeologists Develop First 3D Model of Easter Island’s Primary Moai Quarry

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

Evidence from ethnohistory and recent archaeology indicates that Easter Island (Rapanui) had a politically decentralized structure, organized into small kin-based communities that operated with a degree of autonomy throughout the island. This raises significant questions regarding the over 1,000 monumental statues (moai). Was the production process at Rano Raraku, the main moai quarry, centrally managed, or did it reflect the decentralized patterns observed on the island? Archaeologists utilized a dataset of more than 11,000 UAV images to create the first comprehensive three-dimensional model of a quarry to examine these competing hypotheses.

3D model of Rano Raraku quarry. Image credit: Lipo et al., doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0336251.

The monumental Moai of Easter Island stand as one of the most remarkable archaeological achievements in Polynesia, with over 1,000 megalithic statues spread across the volcanic isle, which is just 100 miles long.²

This significant investment in monumental architecture seems paradoxical when compared to ethnohistorical records that consistently depict Rapa Nui society as composed of relatively small, rival kin-based groups rather than a centralized polity.

Early ethnographers described a sociopolitical environment with numerous matas (clans or tribes) maintaining distinct territorial boundaries, independent ceremonial centers, and autonomous leadership structures.

This leads to the question of whether the construction of the moai was similarly decentralized.

In a recent study, Professor Carl Lipo from Binghamton University and his team compiled over 11,000 images of Rano Raraku, a key moai quarry, and developed a detailed 3D model of the site, which includes hundreds of moai at various stages of completion.

“For archaeologists, quarries are like an archaeological Disneyland,” Professor Lipo stated.

“Everything you can imagine about the making of a moai is represented here, as most of the crafting was performed directly on site.”

“This has always been a goldmine of information and cultural significance, yet it remains greatly under-documented.”

“The rapid advancement in technology is astounding,” noted Dr. Thomas Pingel of Binghamton University.

“The quality of this model surpasses what was achievable just a few years ago, and the ability to share such a detailed model accessible from anyone’s desktop is exceptional.”

In-depth analysis of the model revealed 30 distinct quarrying centers, each exhibiting different carving techniques, indicating multiple independent working zones.

There is also evidence of the moai being transported in various directions from the quarry.

These observations imply that moai construction, like the broader societal structure of Rapa Nui, lacked central organization.

“We are observing individualized workshops that cater specifically to different clan groups, focusing on particular areas,” said Professor Lipo.

“From the construction site, you can visually identify that specific groups created a series of statues together, indicating separate workshops.”

This finding challenges the prevalent assumption that such large-scale monument production necessitates a hierarchical structure.

The similarities among the moai appear to be the result of shared cultural knowledge rather than collaborative efforts in carving the statues.

“Much of the so-called ‘Rapanui mystery’ arises from the scarcity of publicly available detailed evidence that would empower researchers to assess hypotheses and formulate explanations,” stated the researchers.

“We present the first high-resolution 3D model of the Rano Raraku Moai Quarry, the key site for nearly 1,000 statues, offering new perspectives on the organization and manufacturing processes behind these massive megalithic sculptures.”

Findings are detailed in an article published in the Online Journal on November 26, 2025 in PLoS ONE.

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CP Lipo et al. 2025. Production of megalithic statues (moai) at Rapa Nui (Easter Island, Chile). PLoS One 20 (11): e0336251; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0336251

Source: www.sci.news

Fossils from Venezuela Uncover the Early Origins of Anaconda Giants

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

The anaconda is among the largest surviving snake species in the world. Typically, its length ranges from 4 to 5 meters, although exceptional cases can reach up to 7 meters. A recent study conducted by paleontologists on giant anaconda fossils from South America suggests that these tropical reptiles achieved their maximum size approximately 12.4 million years ago and have maintained their large dimensions continuously since then.

Green anaconda (Eunectes murinus). Image credit: MKAMPIS / CC BY-SA 4.0.

“Current snakes display a broad spectrum of body lengths, averaging about 1 meter, with sizes ranging from 10 centimeters for the smallest leptotyphloid thread snakes to roughly 7 meters for anacondas.” Eunectes Andrés Alfonso Rojas, a PhD student at the University of Cambridge, and his colleagues state:

“Within the Eunectes genus, the green anaconda (Eunectes murinus) is the largest species, averaging 4 to 5 meters in length, with maximum recorded lengths of 6 to 7.2 meters.”

“Limited fossil findings from Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela suggest that the evolutionary timeline of anacondas dates back to the mid-to-late Miocene.”

“However, our understanding of the body size of early anacondas, which coexisted with massive crocodilians, turtles, ungulates, and xenartranians, remains scarce.”

In their research, the authors examined 183 fossilized anaconda spines representing at least 32 snakes discovered in the state of Falcón, Venezuela.

By integrating these measurements with fossil data from various South American locations, they concluded that ancient anacondas measured 4 to 5 meters in length, similar to today’s anacondas.

“While other species, including giant crocodiles and colossal turtles, have become extinct since the Miocene—likely due to declining global temperatures and reduced habitats—giant anacondas have persisted. They demonstrate remarkable adaptability,” noted Alfonso Rojas.

“The analysis of fossils indicates that anacondas’ body size evolved significantly soon after their emergence in tropical South America around 12.4 million years ago, and this size has remained consistent ever since.”

The researchers cross-verified their estimates using an alternative method known as ancestral state reconstruction, employing snake family trees to estimate the length of giant anacondas and related modern species like tree boas and rainbow boas.

This method corroborates the notion that when anacondas first appeared in the Miocene, their average size was 4 to 5 meters.

Anacondas inhabit swamps, marshes, and substantial rivers, such as the Amazon. During the Miocene, northern South America resembled the contemporary Amazon region, allowing anacondas to thrive in wider areas than seen today.

Nonetheless, the current environment still offers ample food sources, including capybaras and fish, and suitable habitats that support the continued growth of modern anacondas.

As snakes are particularly sensitive to temperature changes, it was previously believed that anacondas might have grown even larger during earlier warm periods.

“This finding is unexpected, as ancient anacondas were thought to have reached lengths of 7 to 8 meters,” remarked Alfonso Rojas.

“However, we found no evidence supporting the existence of larger snakes during the Miocene, even when global temperatures were higher.”

These findings were published recently in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.

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Andres F. Alfonso-Rojas et al. Early origins of gigantism in anacondas (Serpentes: Eunectes) revealed by the fossil record. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology published online on December 1, 2025. doi: 10.1080/02724634.2025.2572967

Source: www.sci.news

San Francisco Files Lawsuit Against 10 Ultra-Processed Food Corporations

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

On Tuesday, the city of San Francisco initiated legal action against 10 major food corporations, accusing them of marketing and distributing ultra-processed foods that are detrimental to human health and can lead to addiction.

The lawsuit claims these products are fueling a public health crisis in San Francisco and nationwide, burdening cities and governments with increased healthcare costs associated with diets rich in processed foods. This marks a pioneering effort to hold food corporations accountable for the widespread availability and recognized health hazards of such products.

“Scientific research on the dangers of these products has reached a critical point,” stated San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu during a news conference on Tuesday morning. He emphasized that “These items in our diets are closely linked to severe health issues and impose substantial costs on millions of Americans, as well as on municipalities and states across the nation.”

The category of “ultra-processed foods” typically includes flavored chips, sugary granola bars, and soda. These products contain synthetic ingredients, preservatives, and additives, and are frequently high in saturated fats, sodium, and sugar. Research has associated these foods with: increased risks of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular illness, along with premature death and other health issues.

Filed in San Francisco County Superior Court, the lawsuit asserts that the companies were aware these products were “unsafe for human consumption” and employed “misleading strategies” to market and sell their items.

The defendants include Kraft Heinz Company, Mondelez International, Post Holdings, The Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, General Mills, Nestlé USA, Kellogg, Mars Incorporated, and ConAgra Brands.

NBC News reached out to each of the companies for their comments; however, no immediate responses were received.

Sarah Gallo, senior vice president of product policy at the Consumer Brands Association, a trade group representing major food and beverage brands, stated, “The makers of America’s trusted household brands are helping Americans make healthier choices and enhance product transparency.”

Gallo further noted, “Currently, there is no agreement on the scientific definition of ultra-processed foods, and any attempts to label processed foods as unhealthy, or to vilify them by overlooking their complete nutritional value, misleads consumers and worsens health disparities. Companies adhere to stringent, evidence-based safety standards established by the FDA to offer safe, affordable, and convenient products that consumers rely on daily. Americans deserve information grounded in sound science to make optimal health choices.”

This lawsuit emerges amid growing scrutiny of ultra-processed foods from across the political spectrum. Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has criticized these foods, making them a central element of his “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, which includes a proposal to ban artificial colors from the food supply within the next year.

Now, attorneys in California cities recognized for their progressive stances are also addressing this matter.

Laura Schmidt, a professor at the Health Policy Institute at the University of California, San Francisco, commented on the bipartisan trend: “Regardless of the motivation, we share a common goal. This issue has not traditionally been politicized.”

She added, “Until now, it felt like we were observing a slow-motion train wreck. I’ve been discussing childhood diabetes for decades. The rates continue to escalate. Pediatric fatty liver disease and childhood obesity—it’s evident that there is a significant problem with this segment of our food supply.”

Ms. Schmidt expressed disagreement with the industry group’s claim that there is no scientific basis for the term “ultra-processed” foods.

She remarked that the city attorney’s lawsuit resembles those previously filed against the tobacco industry.

“I feel encouraged whenever I witness public officials like the San Francisco city and state-level attorneys engaging in litigation, as this is what captured the attention of tobacco companies in the 1990s,” said Schmidt. (Notably, tobacco giants Philip Morris and RJ Reynolds acquired several food companies in the 1980s; Philip Morris acquired Kraft Foods in 1988 and spun off the brand in 2007.)

Barry Popkin, a nutrition professor at the University of North Carolina, noted that ultra-processed foods began infiltrating the U.S. market in the 1980s and have since become pervasive. Researchers began examining their detrimental health effects approximately 10 to 15 years ago, he added.

“Currently, around 75% to 80% of children’s diets consist of ultra-processed foods, while 55% to 60% of adults’ diets are similarly comprised,” Popkin stated. “It’s impossible to draw comparisons between eating habits during World War II, post-war, and the subsequent decades to today’s dietary norms.”

PepsiCo is named as one of the ten defendants in this new lawsuit.Gabby Jones/Bloomberg from Getty Images File

Last month, the scientific journal The Lancet published a thorough review of the health ramifications of ultra-processed foods, analyzing hundreds of studies along with national food survey data.

The review’s authors indicated that globally, ultra-processed foods are deteriorating diets, promoting overeating, and exposing consumers to harmful substances. This culminates in an escalation of chronic diseases; as research suggests.

Popkin contributed to some of the studies referenced in The Lancet.

“We are in poor health, and our diets significantly contribute to this. While we’ve tackled smoking, cholesterol issues, and heart ailments with medication, our food choices are detrimental to our health,” he remarked. “The most reputable and frequently cited medical journals have deemed this a subject worthy of global presentation.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

India Mandates Mobile Manufacturers to Preinstall State-Run Cyber Safety App on Devices | India Technology

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

India’s telecom ministry has officially requested smartphone manufacturers to pre-install state-owned cybersecurity applications on all new devices, which cannot be removed. This directive is likely to generate criticism from Apple and privacy advocates, according to a government order.

In light of the rising incidents of cybercrime and hacking, India is collaborating with international authorities, including those in Russia, to enforce new regulations that aim to prevent the misuse of stolen mobile phones for fraudulent activities or the promotion of government service applications.

Apple has historically been at odds with telecom regulators regarding the development of government anti-spam mobile applications; however, manufacturers such as Samsung, Vivo, Oppo, and Xiaomi are obliged to comply with the recent mandate.

According to the order issued on November 28, established smartphone brands have 90 days to ensure that the government’s Sanchar Saathi application is pre-installed on new devices, with users unable to disable the app.

For phones already present in the supply chain, manufacturers are required to roll out app updates to the devices, as stated in an unpublished order sent privately to certain companies.

However, a technology law expert expressed concerns regarding this development.

“The government has effectively stripped user consent of its significance,” stated Mishi Chaudhary, an advocate for internet rights.

Privacy advocates have criticized a similar request made by Russia in August, which mandates the pre-installation of the state-backed Max messaging app on mobile devices.

With over 1.2 billion subscribers, India stands as one of the largest smartphone markets. Since its launch in January, the app has reportedly helped recover more than 700,000 lost phones, including 50,000 in October alone, according to government data.

The government asserts that the app is vital in addressing “serious risks” to communication cybersecurity posed by duplicate or spoofed IMEI numbers, which facilitate fraud and network exploitation.

Counterpoint Research anticipates that by mid-2025, 4.5% of the expected 735 million smartphones in India will operate on Apple’s iOS, while the remaining devices will run Android.

Although Apple preinstalls its own applications, its internal policies bar the installation of government or third-party applications prior to sale, according to a source familiar with the situation.

“Apple has a history of denying such governmental requests,” remarked Tarun Pathak, a research director at Counterpoint.

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“It’s probable that we will pursue a compromise. Instead of mandating pre-installation, we may opt to negotiate and encourage users to install the application voluntarily.”

Apple, Google, Samsung, and Xiaomi did not respond to inquiries for comment. Likewise, India’s Ministry of Telecommunications has not issued a response.

The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI), a unique identifier consisting of 14 to 17 digits for each mobile device, is predominantly used to revoke network access for phones reported as stolen.

The Sanchar Saathi application is principally developed to assist users in blocking and tracking lost or stolen smartphones across various networks via a centralized registry. It also aids in identifying and disconnecting unauthorized mobile connections.

Since its launch, the app has achieved over 5 million downloads, successfully blocked more than 3.7 million stolen or lost phones, and prevented over 30 million unauthorized connections.

The government claims that the software will contribute to mitigating cyber threats, facilitate the tracking and blocking of lost or stolen mobile phones, assist law enforcement in device tracking, and help curtail the entry of counterfeit products into illicit markets.

By the year 2030, humanity will face a critical decision regarding the “ultimate risk” of allowing artificial intelligence systems to self-train and enhance their capabilities, according to one of the foremost AI experts.

Jared Kaplan, chief scientist and co-founder of the $180bn (£135bn) US startup Anthropic, emphasized that crucial choices are being made concerning the level of autonomy granted to these evolving systems.

This could potentially spark a beneficial “intellectual explosion” or signify humanity’s loss of control.

In a conversation addressing the intense competition to achieve artificial general intelligence (AGI), also referred to as superintelligence, Kaplan urged global governments and society to confront what he termed the “biggest decision.”

Anthropic belongs to a network of leading AI firms striving for supremacy in the field, alongside OpenAI, Google DeepMind, xAI, Meta, and prominent Chinese competitors led by DeepSeek. Claude, one of the popular AI assistants, has gained significant traction among business clients.

Kaplan predicted that a decision to “relinquish” control to AI could materialize between 2027 and 2030. Photo: Bloomberg/Getty Images

Kaplan stated that aligning swiftly advancing technology with human interests has proven successful to date, yet permitting technology to recursively enhance itself poses “the ultimate risk, as it would be akin to letting go of AI.” He mentioned that a decision regarding this could emerge between 2027 and 2030.

Photo: Casey Clifford/The Guardian

“Envisioning a process generated by an AI that is as intelligent, or nearly as intelligent, as you. This is essentially about developing smarter AI.”

Photo: Casey Clifford/The Guardian

“This seems like a daunting process. You cannot predict the final outcome.”

Kaplan transitioned from a theoretical physicist to an AI billionaire in just seven years. During an extensive interview, he also conveyed:

AI systems are expected to handle “most white-collar jobs” in the coming two to three years.
His 6-year-old son is unlikely to outperform AI in academic tasks, such as writing essays or completing math exams.
It is natural to fear a scenario where AI can self-improve, leading humans to lose control.
The competitive landscape around AGI feels tremendously overwhelming.
In a favorable outcome, AI could enhance biomedical research, health and cybersecurity, productivity, grant additional leisure time, and promote human well-being.

Kaplan met with the Guardian at Anthropic’s office in San Francisco, where the interior design, filled with knitted rugs and lively jazz music, contrasts with the existential concerns surrounding the technology being cultivated.

San Francisco has emerged as a focal point for AI startups and investment. Photo: Washington Post/Getty Images

Kaplan, a physicist educated at Stanford and Harvard, joined OpenAI in 2019 following his research at Johns Hopkins University and Cologne, Germany, and co-founded Anthropic in 2021.

He isn’t alone in expressing concerns at Anthropic. One of his co-founders, Jack Clark, remarked in October: He considers himself both an optimist and a “deeply worried” individual. He described the path of AI as “not a simplistic and predictable mechanism, but a genuine and enigmatic entity.”

Kaplan conveyed his strong belief that AI systems would align with human interests, aligning them to the level of human cognition, although he harbors concerns about surpassing that boundary.

He explained: “If you envision creating this process using an AI smarter or comparable in intelligence to humans, it becomes about creating smarter AI. We intend to leverage AI to enhance its own capability. This suggests a process that may seem intimidating. The outcome is uncertain.”

The advantages of integrating AI into the economy are being scrutinized. Outside Anthropic’s headquarters, a sign from another tech corporation pointedly posed a question about returns on investment: “All AI and no ROI?” A September Harvard Business Review study indicated that AI “workthrop” — subpar AI-generated work requiring human corrections — was detrimental to productivity.

The most overt benefit appears to be the application of AI in computer programming tasks. In September, Anthropic unveiled its advanced AI, Claude Sonnet 4.5, a computer coding model allowing the creation of AI agents and granting autonomous computer utilization.

The attackers exploited the Claude Code tool for various organizations. Photo: Anthropic

Kaplan commented that the company can handle complex, multi-step programming tasks for 30 continuous hours and has, in specific instances, doubled the speed of its programmers through AI integration.

However, Anthropic revealed in November that it suspected a state-supported Chinese group engaged in misconduct by operating the Claude Code Tool, which not only assisted humans in orchestrating cyberattacks but also executed approximately 30 attacks independently, some of which were successful. Kaplan articulated that permitting an AI to train another AI is “a decision of significant consequence.”

“We regard this as possibly the most substantial decision or the most alarming scenario… Once no human is involved, certainty diminishes. You might begin the process thinking, ‘Everything’s proceeding as intended, it’s safe,’ but the reality is it’s an evolving process. Where is it headed?”

He identified two risks associated with the recursive self-improvement method, often referred to in this context, when allowed to operate uncontrollably.

“One concern is regarding potential loss of control. Is the AI aware of its actions? The fundamental inquiries are: Will AI be a boon for humanity? Can it be beneficial? Will it remain harmless? Will it understand us? Will it enable individuals to maintain control over their lives and surroundings?”

Photo: Casey Clifford/The Guardian

“It’s crucial to prevent power grabs and the misuse of technology.”

Photo: Casey Clifford/The Guardian

“It seems very hazardous if it lands in the wrong hands.”

The second risk pertains to the security threat posed by self-trained AI that could surpass human capabilities in scientific inquiry and technological advancement.

“It appears exceedingly unsafe for this technology to be misappropriated,” he stated. “You can envision someone wanting this AI to serve their own interests. Preventing power grabs and the misuse of technology is essential.”

Independent studies on cutting-edge AI models, including ChatGPT, have demonstrated that the length of tasks they can execute is expanding. Doubling every seven months.

The Future of AI

The contenders aiming to achieve superintelligence. This was compiled in collaboration with the Editorial Design team. Read more from the series.

Words

Nick Hopkins, Rob Booth, Amy Hawkins, Dara Kerr, Dan Milmo

Design and Development

Rich Cousins, Harry Fischer, Pip Lev, Alessia Amitrano

Picture Editors

Fiona Shields, Jim Hedge, Gail Fletcher

Kaplan expressed his worry that the rapid pace of advancement might not allow humanity sufficient time to acclimatize to the technology before it evolves significantly further.

“This is a source of concern… individuals like me could be mistaken in our beliefs and it might all culminate,” he remarked. “The best AI might be the one we possess presently. However, we genuinely do not believe that is the case. We anticipate ongoing improvements in AI.”

He added, “The speed of change is so swift that people often lack adequate time to process it or contemplate their responses.”

During its pursuit of AGI, Anthropic is in competition with OpenAI, Google DeepMind, and xAI to develop more sophisticated AI systems. Kaplan remarked that the atmosphere in the Bay Area is “certainly intense with respect to the stakes and competitiveness in AI.”

“Our perspective is that the trends in investments, returns, AI capabilities, task complexity, and so forth are all following this exponential pattern. [They signify] AI’s growing capabilities,” he noted.

The accelerated rate of progress increases the risk of one of the competitors making an error and falling behind. “The stakes are considerable to remain at the forefront in terms of not losing ground on exponential growth. [the curve] You could quickly find yourself significantly behind, particularly regarding resources.”

By 2030, it is anticipated that $6.7 trillion will be necessary for global data centers to meet increasing demand. Investors are eager to support companies that are aligned closest to the forefront.

Significant accomplishments have been made in utilizing AI for code generation. Photo: Chen Xin/Getty Images

At the same time, Anthropic advocates for AI regulation. The company’s mission statement emphasizes “the development of more secure systems.”

“We certainly aim to avoid a situation akin to Sputnik where governments abruptly realize, ‘Wow, AI is crucial’… We strive to ensure policymakers are as knowledgeable as possible during this evolution, so they can make informed decisions.”

In October, Mr. Anthropic’s stance led to a confrontation with the Trump administration. David Sachs, an AI advisor to the president, accused Anthropic of “fear-mongering” while promoting state-specific regulations beneficial to the company, while being detrimental to startups.

After Sachs suggested the company was positioning itself as an “opponent” of the Trump administration, Kaplan, alongside Dario Amodei, Anthropic’s CEO, countered by stating the company had publicly supported Trump’s AI initiatives and was collaborating with Republicans, aspiring to maintain America’s dominance in AI.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Do Data Centers’ High Energy Demands Threaten Australia’s Net Zero Goals?

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

The demand for electricity by data centers in Australia could triple over the next five years, with projections indicating it may surpass the energy consumed by electric vehicles by 2030.

Currently, data centers obtain approximately 2% of their electricity from the National Grid, equating to around 4 terawatt-hours (TWh). The Australian Energy Market Operator (Aemo) is optimistic about this share significantly increasing, projecting a growth of 25% annually to reach 12TWh, or 6% of grid demand by 2030, and 12% by 2050.

Aemo anticipates that the rapid expansion of this industry will drive “substantial increases in electricity usage, especially in Sydney and Melbourne.”

In New South Wales and Victoria, where the majority of data centers are situated, they contribute to 11% and 8% of electricity demand, respectively, by 2030. Electricity demand in each state is projected to grow accordingly.

Tech companies like OpenAI and SunCable are pushing Australia towards becoming a central hub for data processing and storage. Recently, the Victorian Government announced a $5.5 million investment aimed at establishing the region as Australia’s data center capital.

However, with 260 data centers currently operating across the nation and numerous others in the pipeline, experts express concerns about the implications of unchecked industry growth on energy transition and climate objectives.

Energy Usage Equivalent to 100,000 Households

The continual operation of numerous servers generates substantial heat and requires extensive electricity for both operation and cooling.

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Globally, the demand for data centers is growing at a rate four times faster than other sectors, according to the International Energy Agency. The number and size of centers are escalating, with large facilities becoming increasingly common.

As highlighted by the IEA, “AI-centric hyperscale data centers possess a capacity exceeding 100MW and consume energy equivalent to what 100,000 homes use annually.”

Professor Michael Blair, a mechanical engineering professor at the University of Melbourne and director of the Net Zero Australia project, stated that there is a significant connection between electricity and water usage due to cooling requirements, as servers convert electrical energy into heat.

“In confined spaces with many computers, air conditioning is required to maintain an optimal operating temperature,” he explains.

Typically, digital infrastructure is cooled through air conditioning or water systems.

Ketan Joshi, a climate analyst at the Oslo-based Australia Institute, shares that many tech companies are reporting a surge in electricity consumption compared to last year. The intensity of energy usage has also been increasing across several metrics: energy per active user and energy per unit of revenue, when compared to five years ago.

“They aren’t consuming more energy to serve additional users or increase revenue,” he asserts. “The pertinent question is: why is our energy consumption escalating?”

In the absence of concrete data, Joshi suggests that the undeniable growth in demand is likely attributed to the rise of energy-intensive generative AI systems.

“Running Harder to Stay in the Same Place”

Joshi is monitoring this issue, as data centers globally are evidenced to place substantial and inflexible demands on power grids, resulting in two significant repercussions: increased dependence on coal and gas generation, and diverting resources away from the energy transition.

While data center companies often assert they operate using clean energy through investments in solar and wind, Joshi remarks that there can often be a mismatch between their companies’ persistent reliance on the grid and their renewable energy production profiles.

“What’s the ultimate impact on the power grid?” he questions. “Sometimes, we have surplus energy, and other times, there isn’t enough.”

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“So, even if everything appears favorable on paper, your data center might be inadvertently supporting fossil fuel transportation.”

Moreover, instead of renewable energy sources displacing coal and gas, these sources are accommodating the growing demands of data centers, Joshi notes. “It’s like sprinting on a treadmill—no matter how hard you run, it feels like the speed is continually increasing.”

The demand for electricity has surged to the extent that some companies have resorted to restarting their operations. Nuclear power plants in the U.S. that were once mothballed are being revived as demand for gas turbines increases. Some Australian developers are even proposing the installation of new gas generators to fulfill their energy needs.

Aemo predicts that by 2035, data centers could consume 21.4TWh, nearing the country’s annual energy consumption, comparable to that of four aluminum smelters.

Blair pointed out that AI adoption is in its infancy, and the outlook remains uncertain, as Aemo’s 2035 energy consumption scenarios range between 12TWh and 24TWh, indicating that the future might not be as expansive as anticipated.

In the National AI Plan released Tuesday, the federal government recognized the necessity for advancements in new energy and cooling technologies for AI systems. Industry Minister Tim Ayers stated that principles for data center investments will be established in early 2026, emphasizing requirements for supplementary investments in renewable energy generation and water sustainability.

“Undeniable Impact” on Electricity Prices

Dr. Dylan McConnell, an energy systems researcher at the University of New South Wales, noted that while renewable energy is on the rise in Australia, it is not yet progressing rapidly enough to meet required renewable energy and emissions targets. The expansion of data centers will complicate these challenges.

“If demand escalates beyond projections and renewables can’t keep pace, we’ll end up meeting that new demand instead of displacing coal,” he explains.

Unlike electric vehicles, which enhance demand on the grid while lowering gasoline and diesel usage, data centers do not reduce fossil fuel consumption elsewhere in the economy, according to McConnell.

“If this demand materializes, it will severely hamper our emissions targets and complicate our ability to phase out coal in alignment with those targets,” he advises.

In its climate targets recommendations, the Climate Change Agency stated: “Data centers will continue to scale up, exerting deeper pressure on local power sources and further hampering renewable energy expansions.”

McConnell asserted there will be a significant effect on overall energy costs, influencing electricity prices.

“To support this load, we will need a larger system that utilizes more costly resources.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Neuroscientists Discover Five Key Phases of Brain Structure Development Across the Human Lifespan

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

Recent findings from neuroscientists reveal that the brain’s structure divides into five main stages throughout a typical person’s life, marked by four significant turning points from birth to death where the brain undergoes reorganization. Brain topology in children evolves from birth up to a crucial transition at age 9, then shifts into adolescence, which generally lasts until around age 32. In your early 30s, the neural wiring transitions to adult mode, marking the longest phase that extends for over 30 years. The third turning point occurs at about age 66, indicating the start of an early aging phase of brain structure, while the late brain phase begins around age 83.

Masry et al. Using a dataset of MRI diffusion scans, they compared the brains of 3,802 individuals aged 0 to 90 years. The dataset maps neural connections by tracking the movement of water molecules through brain tissue. Image credit: Mously et al., doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-65974-8.

“While we know brain wiring plays a crucial role in our development, we still lack a comprehensive understanding of how and why it fluctuates throughout life,” explained Dr. Alexa Mausley, a researcher at the University of Cambridge.

“This study is the first to pinpoint essential stages in brain wiring throughout the human lifespan.”

“These epochs offer vital insight into our brain’s strengths and vulnerabilities at different life stages.”

“Understanding these changes could shed light on why certain developmental challenges arise, such as learning difficulties in early childhood or dementia later in life.”

During the transition from infancy to childhood, strengthened neural networks emerge as the excess of synapses (the connections between neurons) in a baby’s brain diminishes, allowing only the most active synapses to thrive.

The brain rewires in a consistent pattern from birth until approximately age 9.

In this timeframe, the volumes of gray and white matter grow swiftly, resulting in maximal cortical thickness (the distance from the outer gray matter to the inner white matter), with the cortical folds stabilizing.

By the first turning point at age 9, cognitive abilities begin to evolve gradually, and the likelihood of mental health issues becomes more pronounced.

The second stage, adolescence, is characterized by an ongoing increase in white matter volume, leading to an enhancement in the sophistication of the brain’s communication networks, measurable through water diffusion scans.

This phase is marked by improved connectivity efficiency across specific regions and swift communication throughout the brain, correlating with enhanced cognitive performance.

“As expected, neural efficiency is closely linked to shorter pathways, and this efficiency increases throughout adolescence,” Mausley notes.

“These advancements peak in your early 30s, representing the most significant turning point in your lifetime.”

“Around age 32, the change in wiring direction is the most pronounced, and the overall trajectory alteration is greater than at any other turning points.”

“Although the onset of puberty is clearly defined, the conclusion is far harder to identify scientifically.”

“Based solely on neural structure, we found that puberty-related changes in brain structure conclude by the early 30s.”

Post age 32, adulthood enters its longest phase, characterized by a more stable brain structure with no significant turning points for three decades. This aligns with findings indicating an “intellectual and personality plateau.”

Additionally, the researchers observed a greater degree of “segregation” during this phase, indicating a gradual fragmentation of brain regions.

The tipping point at age 66 is more gradual, lacking dramatic structural shifts; however, notable changes in brain network patterns were found around this age on average.

“Our findings indicate a gradual reconfiguration of brain networks that peaks in the mid-60s,” stated Dr. Mausley.

“This is likely linked to aging, as white matter begins to decline, reducing connectivity further.”

“We are currently facing an era where individuals are increasingly at risk for various health conditions impacting the brain, such as high blood pressure.”

The final turning point arises around age 83, ushering in the last stage of brain structure.

Data from this stage is scarce, but a key characteristic is the shift from global to local connectivity as interactions across the brain diminish while reliance on specific regions intensifies.

Professor Duncan Astle of the University of Cambridge remarked: “In reflection, many of us recognize that our lives encompass distinct stages.”

“Interestingly, the brain also navigates through these phases.”

“Numerous neurodevelopmental, mental health, and neurological conditions are tied to the brain’s wiring.”

“In fact, variations in brain wiring can predict challenges with attention, language, memory, and a wide array of other behaviors.”

“Recognizing that structural transformations in the brain occur not in a linear fashion but through several major turning points can assist us in identifying when and how brain wiring may be vulnerable to disruptions.”

a paper detailing the study was published in the journal on November 25. Nature Communications.

_____

A. Mausley et al. 2025. Topological turning points across the human lifespan. Nat Commun 16, 10055; doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-65974-8

Source: www.sci.news

15 Top Tech Gifts for Moms in the U.S. | Gift Ideas by Filter US

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

TThe greatest gift for your mom this holiday season is an opportunity to unwind. A day free from obligations, where someone else handles cooking, cleaning, and chores. She can take a break, enjoy brunch with friends, or indulge in shopping. However, don’t forget to have something beautifully wrapped and waiting for her under the tree.

Having been a technology critic for over ten years and a mother myself, I particularly enjoy unwrapping gadgets. That said, you don’t need to be a tech enthusiast to value the practicality and luxury of well-thought-out devices. I consulted numerous moms across various price ranges to gather insights on their tech wish lists this holiday season.

All prices are accurate as of the publication date.

Tech gifts for mom under $50

Photo: Provided by Amazon

Apple AirTag

$17.97 on Amazon

$17.97 at Walmart

Parents can often feel overwhelmed, anxious, and forgetful. I absolutely love Apple AirTags. You can attach it to your car keys or keep it in your wallet for peace of mind. When my car keys get lost within the cushions of the couch or my wallet is left in another bag, the iPhone’s precision search acts like a homing device to locate my keys. When outside Bluetooth range, AirTags can relay location information via nearby iPhone users, helping you find misplaced items like luggage. I’ve relied on AirTag more times than I’d care to admit, including attaching it to my 13-year-old’s house keys to help him find it after losing it repeatedly.

Photo: Provided by Scosh

Scosche MagStack USB-C Cable

$29.99 at Crutchfield

I’ve come to realize that I can never have enough cables. Nowadays, every device operates on USB-C, and while many come with additional cables included, it’s inevitable that someone in my family will borrow mine, leaving me without it.

I admire these cables for their durability and the convenience of being able to neatly coil them for travel, thanks to their magnetic jacket. They also enable speedy data transfers and quick charging when connected to compatible devices and power adapters. A chic cable with various stylish colors and a sleek design; I doubt any mother would say, “No, thank you.”

Photo: Provided by Amazon

Coffee Warming Tray

$32.99 on Amazon

All moms, particularly those like me who work from home, understand the frustration of pouring a fresh cup of coffee, setting it aside, and diving into work—only to discover an hour later that it has gone cold.

This mug warmer changes that. Just place the mug on the heating plate, and your coffee, tea, or any other hot beverage stays hot for hours. No more waste, and mom will be thrilled. You can savor your morning in peace. “I’m specific about coffee mugs,” Marta shared. That’s why she prefers a mug warmer like this over heated mugs that require charging and hand washing.

Photo: Provided by Amazon

Breathing Pal Kyle Mindfulness Breathing Light

$21.89 on Amazon

This charming light serves dual purposes: it can be a night light or a calming meditation aid to alleviate anxiety. It offers three breathing exercises, including simple box breathing, to help moms collect themselves after a stressful day. The light cues guide mom, and you can even change the colors to match her mood.

Plus, its adorable design (which comes in koala, rabbit, and ball shapes) is sure to bring a smile. Carla, 46, noted: “I had read about the benefits of guided breathing, but I wasn’t particularly enthusiastic. Seeing this cute koala could motivate me to stick with it.”

Photo: Provided by Amazon

Yukosphone Tripod

$29.99 on Amazon

Moms always find themselves behind the camera, but seldom in front of it. Capture her essence by using a tripod for her phone. This model features extendable legs that collapse to the size of a handheld selfie stick, inclusive of a remote control that allows you to snap a picture when everyone is beaming.

Active moms will appreciate being able to set up their phones and tripods to document the action, ensuring they don’t miss a memorable goal or home run. Blair, 40, expressed: “I want a small tripod to have beside me while playing. I dislike holding my phone, and can’t clap or cheer while playing, so I miss recording it.”

Technology gifts Mom under $100

Photo: Provided by Amazon

Kensington MagPro Elite Magnetic Privacy Screen

$64.99 on Amazon

$75.99 at Kensington

As someone who frequently works from home but also at local coffee shops and travels for work, I find this privacy screen invaluable. It stops nosy onlookers from peeking at my screen.

Designed specifically for MacBooks (but available for other computers as well), it adheres magnetically to the screen without adhesives. When viewed directly, it doesn’t obstruct your sight, but when you shift your angle, nothing can be seen. It also cuts down on blue light, thereby reducing eye strain, making it excellent for long hours in front of screens.

Photo: Provided by Hyper

Hyper Hyper Pack Backpack

$67.49 at Hyper

I’ve been utilizing this backpack over the last few months for remote work and travels. At first glance, it doesn’t seem big enough to hold everything I need, yet it surprisingly accommodates more than expected. During a recent lengthy flight to Spain, I managed to fit all of my essentials: laptop, headphones, compact camera case, smartphone, battery pack, sunglasses, toiletries, house keys, wipes, cables, and chargers.

Having been caught in the rain multiple times, the water-resistant fabric and zippers ensure that everything inside remains dry. Plus, it’s made from recycled plastic bottles!

Photo: Provided by Amazon

Monster AC601 Earphones

$89.99 on Amazon

My best friend absolutely adores these earbuds. She “borrowed” them a few years back and still uses them daily, especially during workouts and walks. Not only are they very affordable, but they also feature Bluetooth 6.0 for a reliable connection to your device, complete with real-time translation capabilities. The included charging case provides a whopping 32 hours of battery life, reducing the hassle of daily charging. “I love the purple Monster earphones,” Marta, 46, said, “I have oddly shaped ears, and these don’t irritate me like typical earphones do. They fit perfectly and I don’t have to adjust them constantly.”

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Photo: Provided by Amazon

Anker MagGo Power Bank

$79.99 on Amazon

$99.99 at Anchor

I won’t leave the house without these chargers. Their slim profile fits nicely into any bag and provides extra power when needed, whether it’s to get an Uber or catch an exciting moment at your kids’ game. Thanks to Apple’s MagSafe technology, it attaches effortlessly to the back of your iPhone, allowing wireless charging without the hassle of tangled cords. Although wireless charging is slower than wired, the latest 15-watt Qi2 standard is fast enough.

Tech gifts for mom over $100

Photo: Provided by Amazon

Panasonic Technics Wireless Earphones EAH-AZ100

$222.99 on Amazon

$249.99 at Technics

These are my absolute favorite earphones. I wear them during walks, commutes, working at coffee shops, and even while traveling. The noise cancellation capabilities are top-notch, effectively blocking out sounds—even on airplanes. I’ve been using them for a year and am extremely impressed by their fit, sound quality, and noise reduction features.

The Bluetooth multipoint feature allows them to connect with both your phone and laptop, automatically shifting audio as you switch between devices. I own the classic black version but would highly suggest the new champagne gold finish so she can feel extra special wearing them.

Photo: Provided by Walmart

JBL Flip 7 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

$104.90 at Walmart

$109.95 at JBL

At just over $100, the JBL Flip 7 offers sound quality that competes with portable Bluetooth speakers priced at twice its cost. I’ve used it at home, on a beach vacation in Mexico, and it has proven to be a hit among teenagers. You get a fantastic battery life of up to 16 hours per charge, excellent sound quality, plus Auracast, which allows pairing with two speakers for a richer audio experience.

The IP68 rating ensures its safety, even if accidentally submerged in water. Moms will appreciate the PushLock system, which accommodates interchangeable accessories like wrist straps and carabiner clips, both included in the package. At this price, why not get two?

Photo: Provided by Amazon

Oura Ring 4 Smart Ring

$249 on Amazon

$349 at Oura

The Oura Ring 4 is ideal for moms to monitor important metrics such as sleep, heart rate, physical activity, and blood oxygen levels. Additionally, it includes tracking features for pregnancy, menopause, and perimenopause symptoms. Personally, I appreciate the organized app that provides feedback on stress levels, readiness throughout the day, as well as daily snapshots.

It’s comfortable to wear, stylish (especially the new ceramic model), and boasts a week-long battery life on a single charge. One caveat is that to access the full range of features, a $5.99 monthly subscription is required. However, for the insights it offers, she likely won’t mind trading a fancy latte once a month.

Photo: Provided by Amazon

Apple Watch Series 11 Smart Watch

$329 on Amazon

$329 at Walmart

I adore the Apple Watch Series 11, and many mothers I know are keen on it as well. The upgrades from previous versions include a smoother, more resilient screen, improved battery life (a common issue with the Apple Watch), and real-time translation features.

Busy moms will appreciate the new wrist gestures that make it easy to dismiss notifications and answer calls when their hands are occupied. “If you’re seeking a premium gift for your mom, I bought the Apple Watch Series 11 to upgrade from my Series 7. I love it for tracking my workouts, but also appreciate the Find My Phone function since my memory isn’t what it used to be,” Marta shared.

Photo: courtesy of Skaff

Customized SCUF Valor Pro Wireless Game Controller

$209.99 at Scarf

Moms can be gamers too! Sometimes they find themselves sharing gear with their little gamers. A personalized game controller makes for a thoughtful and unique gift. You can customize colors for the faceplate, thumbsticks, rings, D-pad, and even bumpers and triggers. Just like that, mom has her very own controller!

This will be her pride and joy, ensuring the kids won’t be borrowing it. More importantly, she’ll appreciate knowing it was made with love. “I’m a gamer, and what I really want is a customized SCUF Valor Pro Wireless controller,” says Dayna, 35. “I share my system with my children. It would be wonderful to have something special just for me.”

Photo: Provided by Amazon

TheraGun Prime Massage Gun

$259.99 on Amazon

$259.99 at Therabody

For moms who enjoy morning runs, afternoon walks, home workouts, and yoga classes, muscle soreness can become a reality with age. While some high-end massage guns can be pricey, entry-level options provide much-needed relief. “I’ve been wanting a massage gun, but it’s something I wouldn’t buy for myself. I take a bike class regularly, and my legs ache by day’s end, especially while managing small children at home. Having a massage gun for evening relief would be amazing,” shares Melissa, 30.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Can a Virus-Related Test, Like the Bird Test, Truly Reveal Insights About Your Relationship?

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

Did you see that seagull? Take the bird test

Sean/Getty Images

If you’ve been active on TikTok lately, you might be familiar with the concept of bird inspection. In this test, one partner casually mentions something, like observing a bird outside, to gauge if the other is engaged. An enthusiastic response signals a positive connection; lack of interest might indicate underlying issues. It’s amusing, relatable, and resonates with many. This viral phenomenon reflects something intrinsic to relationships, as psychologists recognize the significance behind it.

For years, relationship scholars have maintained that love is found in these small interactions. We refer to these daily connections as “bids”: sharing a laugh, narrating a story, or simply saying, “Look at that!” Psychologist John Gottman conducted classic studies with newlyweds, revealing that partners strive for the low bid for connection. Other longitudinal research indicates that couples with more assertive responses during disagreements are more likely to remain stable and satisfied in the long term.

Additional studies highlight that responses in everyday moments significantly affect relationship health. For instance, research on newlyweds has shown that couples exhibit heightened playfulness and enthusiasm during brief dinner interactions, showcasing more humor and affection during discussions of conflicts. Longitudinal studies demonstrate that partners perceived as sensitive and affirming tend to become more physically affectionate over time, fostering intimacy through minor everyday gestures.

Ultimately, these small expressions of gratitude function as the adhesive in relationships. The bird test cleverly encapsulates a fundamental truth: small gestures of acknowledgment are significant. While each may feel inconsequential in isolation, their cumulative effect builds positive momentum, sustaining satisfaction and resilience in relationships.

However, isolating specific moments, especially those showcased on social media, can oversimplify relationship evaluations. The bird test transforms intricate dynamics into simple pass/fail moments, potentially leading to unnecessary worries and misplaced confidence. Partners might miss bids for reasons unrelated to commitment—perhaps they are fatigued, under stress, or simply disengaged. Misinterpreting fleeting moments as definitive judgments can lead to harmful conclusions: “They ignored the bird! Do they even love me?” Even worse, it can become a manipulation tool: “You didn’t respond. You aren’t attentive to me.” One-off reactions on an arbitrary day should not define the essence of a relationship.

The pressing question is why such “testing” has gained traction. In addition to bird inspections, we’ve witnessed a rise in activities like the orange peel theory—”Will your partner peel an orange without prompting?”—and the moon phase test, which claims to measure romantic compatibility based on birthdays and lunar cycles.

One reason for this trend may stem from the fluctuating landscape of dating. Dating apps provide an overwhelming array of potential partners, but research indicates that excessive options can make commitment feel riskier and less secure. This uncertainty impacts the formation of relationships, introducing ambiguity in expectations and leaving partners guessing about their feelings. A quick bird test offers immediate feedback—a fleeting visual cue followed by a simple answer.

Another factor is that, despite relationship science gaining popularity, its complexity has been lost. Nuanced insights from extensive observational studies are reduced to simple TikTok phrases: “Did they notice the bird?” At the same time, social media prioritizes highly emotional content, whether heartwarming or heart-wrenching snippets caught on camera. This attention economy encourages individuals to transform genuine relationships into public trials. In this context, viral tests flourish, providing dramatic, recordable moments of validation that can be shared and scrutinized.

So, what should couples take away from this trend? Bird testing, while playful, underscores the importance of responsiveness when a partner reaches out, even in minor ways, as the backbone of a healthy relationship. If this phenomenon inspires more curiosity, attention, and appreciation, then it can be viewed as a positive development. However, instead of asking, “Did my partner succeed in this test?” a more beneficial inquiry would be, “What patterns have emerged in our relationship? Are they consistently present? Do they feel acknowledged and valued?” Love is not defined by one solitary act, bird, or orange, but by the countless small moments when partners choose to be there for each other behind the scenes.

Despite everything, I must admit that for the sake of research, I may just have my husband partake in the bird test tonight. Wishing him the best of luck!

Emily Impett is a professor in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and director of the Institute for Human Relations and Happiness at the University of Toronto Mississauga. Her research explores sacrifice, sexuality in long-term relationships, and changes within relationships.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Study: Chronic Severe River Drought Caused the Collapse of the Indus Valley Civilization

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

According to a recent study, severe and long-lasting river droughts, lasting over 85 years each, impacted the Indus basin from 4,400 to 3,400 years ago. This finding may provide insights into the gradual decline of this ancient civilization and underscores how environmental factors can influence historical societies.

An artist’s reconstruction of the gates and drainage channels of the ancient city of Harappa. Image credit: Chris Sloan.

The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the earliest urban cultures, thrived between 5,000 and 3,500 years ago along the Indus River and its tributaries in present-day Pakistan and northwestern India.

During its zenith, around 4,500 to 3,900 years ago, the civilization was noted for its advanced urban centers and sophisticated systems for managing water resources.

Despite this, the reasons behind the protracted decline following its peak remain largely elusive.

“The Indus River played a crucial role in the growth of the ancient Indus Valley civilization by offering a consistent water source for agriculture, trade, and communication,” stated Dr. Bimal Mishra from the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar and his colleagues.

“Civilizations prospered near the Indus River and its tributaries approximately 5,000 years ago and evolved over time.”

“The mature Harappan phase (4,500 to 3,900 years ago) was marked by meticulously planned cities, advanced water management techniques, and an intricate writing system.”

“However, post 3,900 years ago, the Harappan civilization began to deteriorate and eventually fell into decline.”

“The causes for this decline are still under discussion. Potential factors encompass shifts in river dynamics influenced by climate change, ocean retreat, drought, flooding, and alterations in social and political structures.”

“Understanding ancient hydroclimatic events and their impact on societies provides vital insights into the susceptibility of complex societies to environmental pressures.”

For this research, the authors simulated climate patterns in the Indus Valley from 5,000 to 3,000 years ago.

They integrated these findings with various indirect climate indicators, including the geochemistry of stalactites and stalagmites from two caves in India and water level data from five lakes in northwestern India.

The results indicated that temperatures rose by approximately 0.5 degrees Celsius during this time, while average annual precipitation in the region decreased by 10% to 20%.

They were able to identify four significant drought periods lasting over 85 years between 4,450 and 3,400 years ago, impacting 65% to 91% of the Indus Valley area.

“These droughts affected the selection of settlement locations in the Indus Valley Civilization,” the researchers noted.

“From 5,000 to 4,500 years ago, settlements were primarily situated in regions with abundant rainfall.”

“However, after 4,500 years ago, they shifted closer to the Indus River as drought conditions began to limit water availability.”

“The last identified drought, lasting 113 years from 3,531 to 3,418 years ago, corresponds with archaeological evidence of significant urbanization in the Indus Valley Civilization.”

“Instead of collapsing abruptly due to sudden climate changes, the Indus civilization likely faced a gradual decline, with extended drought being a key factor,” concluded the researchers.

Their study was published on November 27 in the journal Communication Earth and Environment.

_____

H. Solanki et al. 2025. River drought forcing Harappan metamorphosis. Communication Earth and Environment 6,926; doi: 10.1038/s43247-025-02901-1

Source: www.sci.news

Metroid Prime 4: A New Dawn Review – Samus Aran Returns to Action. Was the 18-Year Wait Worth It?

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

IIn a frigid lab teeming with experimental life forms encased in cryogenic slumber, metal boots crush the frost beneath them. A solitary bounty hunter clad in a recognizable orange exosuit aims his blaster ahead. As you navigate towards the facility’s generator, you examine doors, search for hidden entrances, broken hatches, and concealed keys, pondering whether you truly grasp the chaos awaiting once this place begins to collapse. Every rattle and creak resembles a long-slumbering beast awakening from its pod. Yet, Samus Aran has never possessed fear, so she delves further.

This segment of Prime 4 encapsulates classic Metroid vibes. It’s atmospheric, eerie, desolate, perilous, and enigmatic. Samus, Nintendo’s iconic hero, shines brighter than ever, showcasing a new superpower that imbues her suit with a pulsating purple glow. (I’ve captured a multitude of screenshots of her looking undeniably cool across the game’s various planets.) While she can be maneuvered with dual analog sticks, it feels even more intuitive when using one of the Switch 2’s remotes aimed at the screen. Alternatively, you can operate it like a mouse on a desk or in your lap, but I found my wrist aching after prolonged use. She can morph into a rolling ball, telekinetically shift statues into position, and ride a high-tech, transforming motorcycle across lava and sand, traversing abandoned sites on a distant planet to reveal the lost wisdom of a bygone civilization.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/nmwAhBxakw4?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Nintendo Direct 3.27.2025" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

Indeed, classic Metroid Prime elements abound. It’s a sentiment I’ve missed since these atmospheric journeys took a break in 2007. The focus is on gradually introducing new abilities and gadgets. The Giger-inspired aesthetics shine through. Methodically scanning everything with Samus’ visor for hints is expected. The leisurely exploration is routinely shattered by sudden, chaotic encounters as robots and aliens descend. Dazzling sights, including gigantic boss creatures, vast deserts beneath a relentless alien sun, and spectral wolves emerging from a snowy tempest, unfold dramatically.

Surprisingly, amidst the familiar spirits of the Metroid series, I noticed echoes of Nintendo’s other dormant sci-fi franchises. If you’re yearning for long-lost sequels to F-Zero or Star Fox, they may not be present, but hints are scattered throughout. Within the levitating controls of Samus’ bike and her cyberspace training arena, flying entities sometimes materialize before you, enabling you to target them and unleash explosive laser discs.

Nonetheless, there are aspects that do not have the Metroid essence, often detrimentally. It seems that someone at Retro Studios or Nintendo was concerned players might feel lost, so Samus has a companion suggesting directions. The rescued engineer Miles McKenzie faced significant criticism during previews for Metroid Prime 4. Understandably, he’s visibly irritated, delivering a series of Joss Whedon-style dialogues as he gazes at Samus, who can only assume is silently judging him. Fortunately, he only lingers for the initial 15 minutes before being trapped in the base camp at the conclusion of the game’s first zone, granting Samus (and the player) the freedom to explore uninterrupted.

The patient’s exploration is disrupted by a sudden, chaotic surge. Photo: Nintendo

Apart from a few unwelcome nudges during my extensive desert explorations, Miles didn’t reappear unless I called for assistance. (In the vast abandoned facility dominating the game, his radio signal is distorted, so he can’t offer guidance even if he wished to.) However, Samus encounters more stranded soldiers as the game progresses. all of them proved bothersome, frequently interrupting your explorations with soundbites and unwarranted advice. Meanwhile, the desert linking various areas sadly feels barren. Particularly in the latter segments of the game, a tedious back-and-forth walk across this expansive terrain becomes distinctly un-Metroid (and less enjoyable) when compared to the constricted corridors and tense space station confrontations found in other sections.

Metroid Prime 4 frequently evokes the feel of a game from 15 years past. I emphasize that, overall, this is a positive aspect. Surprisingly, it avoids many pitfalls of contemporary game design. Ironically, the lengthy wait for Prime 4 rendered what might once have seemed tiresome or outdated into something delightfully retro. The methodical gameplay rhythm and the anticipated structure of defeating five distinct boss creatures in five obvious arenas to secure five different keys comes off as nostalgic. However, certain elements are less forgiving, like inconsistent autosaves. It’s frustrating to experience an accidental death and then face a restart of 30 minutes worth of exploration in a molten weaponry facility. do not have fun.

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Had Metroid Prime 4 been released in 2010, I might have found it disappointing. However, following an extended hiatus, I’m thrilled to engage with this retro gameplay approach – slow, painstaking, and occasionally frustrating. This serves as a reunion, rather than a revival of the Metroid Prime series. While some of the new features may not resonate, the classics shine just as brightly as ever.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Ways to Reset Your Body’s Natural Sleep Cycle

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

Feeling fatigued is the new norm

Experiencing reduced focus, appetite, and coordination? These are all indicators of sleep deprivation, a growing global issue.

About two-thirds of adults globally are estimated to awaken at least once each night. In the UK, one in five adults frequently struggle with sleep issues. As reported by the European Journal of Public Health, the UK is the most sleep-deprived nation in Europe.

A 2025 independent survey by OnePoll, commissioned by Silentnight, asked 2,000 UK residents about their sleep routines. The results showed that 24% of participants consider feeling tired to be normal.

This is a serious concern. Sleep deprivation not only impacts your mood the next day but can also lead to various health issues, as well as chronic physical and mental health challenges over time.

Discover why your body requires a nightly reset with valuable insights and tips for enhancing your sleep quality from Kathryn Pinkham, founder of Insomnia Clinic and sleep expert at Silentnight.

Please reset your mind

While you’re asleep, your brain actively resets itself for recovery. The glymphatic system clears out toxins and metabolic byproducts, while short-term memories are stored in the neocortex. Concurrently, the prefrontal cortex manages emotional responses, processes the day’s events, and prepares for what’s to come.

The brain also experiences a neurochemical reset as dopamine and serotonin levels drop notably during sleep. Brain waves slow down to the REM stage, where activity surges as the brain processes emotions and memories, aiding creative thinking during waking hours.

Kathryn shares tips on how to calm your mind before bedtime to effectively reset it.

• Alleviate stress by jotting down thoughts to relieve pressure.

• Instead of thinking, “I can’t sleep,” tell yourself, “I will get some rest, and I’ll manage the day.”

• Be gentle with yourself; don’t chase after ideal sleep. Reducing pressure allows your body to relax naturally.

Reset your body

During deep (slow wave) sleep, your body undergoes a reset and regeneration process. It’s recognized that sleep quality impacts the aging process, and chronic sleep deprivation can adversely affect both current and future health.

While you sleep, your body is hard at work. Protein synthesis fosters cell repair, the pituitary gland produces human growth hormone (HGH) to encourage muscle growth, and immune functions are enhanced.

During deep sleep, heart rate slows, blood pressure decreases, and your cardiovascular system rests. Quality sleep is shown to improve insulin sensitivity, enhancing glucose metabolism and energy levels. Hormones like melatonin are produced while cortisol, a stress hormone, is regulated.

Kathryn Pinkham advises on how to reset your body before sleep:

“The human body inherently needs sleep, a need that intensifies the longer you remain awake. Going to bed early, waking up late, napping during the day, or worrying excessively in bed can weaken this need, making it more challenging to fall asleep. To bolster your need for sleep, try going to bed a bit later and maintaining a consistent wake-up time. This way, you’re more likely to drift off as soon as your head touches the pillow.”

Reset your lifestyle

The Sleep Foundation states, “Good sleep is a 24-hour process,” indicating that cultivating productive daily habits is key to enjoying healthy sleep patterns.

“When you’re fatigued, it’s easy to fixate solely on bedtime,” Kathryn notes. “However, don’t depend only on sleep to feel rejuvenated. Other strategies for boosting energy include physical activity, ample sunlight exposure, and healthy eating. Simple adjustments like these can help your nervous system relax and alleviate stress. When your days are balanced, you’ll naturally start to sleep better.”

Silentnight’s national sleep reset campaign aims to encourage individuals in the UK to rethink their approach to rest, helping to eliminate obstacles to improved sleep through a structured three-step reset plan.

Findings from sleep reset research indicate:

• 1 in 3 people (30%) wake up multiple times each night.

• The main concerns keeping people awake include: Health worries (34%), Financial issues (28%), and Relationship troubles (23%).

• Nearly 30% of individuals lie awake regretting their actions from the day.

• Significant life events can also interrupt sleep, like Job interviews (30%), Moving (23%), and for 28% of women, menopause.

Silentnight provides a range of mattresses tailored to every sleeper, from our new UltraGel™ collection, designed for comfort and support throughout the night, to our Just Sleep roll-up mattress series, which combines convenience with comfort.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Battling for Clarity Amid the Echo Chambers of Big Tech

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

Hi there! Welcome to TechScape. I’m your host, Blake Montgomery. Today, I’m pondering whether it’s time to upgrade from my iPhone 11 Pro. Tech news is filled with ongoing narratives from Silicon Valley, advice on how to sidestep annual smartphone upgrade cycles, and discussions on artificial intelligence in government, for better or worse.

Decoding Silicon Valley’s Narrative

The encroachment of technology can often seem unavoidable. This has likely always been the case, but the feeling is increasingly backed by Big Tech’s own supportive media ecosystem.

My colleague Nick Robbins – Early Report:

If you’re seeking insights from key figures in the tech world, you’ll frequently encounter them on programs like Sourcery, which act as safe havens for an industry wary of critical media. Some new media platforms are created by the companies themselves, while others, like fast-moving sharks, occupy niches favored by tech billionaires. Industry leaders such as Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and Satya Nadella have recently engaged in lengthy, cozy interviews, while entities like Palantir and Andreessen Horowitz have ventured into launching their own media ventures this year.

In a landscape where many Americans express distrust toward major tech firms and believe that artificial intelligence will negatively affect society, Silicon Valley has crafted its own alternative media network, turning CEOs, founders, and investors into lasting and cherished celebrities. What began as a few adoring podcasters has evolved into a comprehensive ecosystem of publications and shows, supported by some of the most influential entities in the tech sector.

However, as these echo chambers within Big Tech expand, so do the critical voices emerging from within the companies.

My colleague Varsha Bansal reports on two recent developments. U.S. AI raters (a new type of contracted content moderator for AI) are discouraging their friends and family from utilizing AI. In Seattle, over 1,000 Amazon employees have anonymously signed an open letter expressing concerns that the rapid implementation of AI across the company and its products jeopardizes the environment and the jobs of its workforce.

1 dozen AI evaluators who verify the accuracy of AI-generated responses shared with the Guardian that upon realizing the capabilities of chatbots and image generators—along with the inaccuracies of their outputs—they began to advise friends and family against using generative AI altogether or at least to approach it with caution. These trainers are involved with various AI models, including Google’s Gemini, Elon Musk’s Grok, along with other popular and lesser-known bots.

More than 1,000 Amazon employees signed the open letter, expressing “grave concerns” regarding AI development and asserting that the company’s “all-costs-justification-at-warp-speed” strategy towards powerful technologies poses a threat to “democracy, our jobs, and our planet.”

This letter, which was made public on Wednesday and signed anonymously by Amazon staff, emerged a month after the company announced mass layoffs aimed at promoting AI usage in its operations. It carries various demands about Amazon’s impact on workplace conditions and the environment. Employees are urging the company to power all data centers with clean energy and to ensure that its AI-driven products and services do not facilitate “violence, surveillance, or mass deportation.”

ChatGPT and Mental Health

Tips for Not Buying New Gadgets This Holiday Season

New iPhone 16. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Black Friday online sales hit $8.6 billion in the U.S., according to Adobe Analytics. You might be one of the excited buyers, or perhaps, like me, you think your sputtering phone, laptop, or tablet will last another year, even if it’s cracked or barely holding a charge. The cost of a complete upgrade can be daunting.

Yet, alternatives are arising. Devices are becoming easier to repair, including Apple products. This means that even if your gadget is aging, there are often budget-friendly ways to obtain the technology you need without purchasing new devices. My colleague Alan Martin covers refurbished devices and shares five tips for navigating these options.

Understand Refurbished Terms

Refurbished can mean a variety of things. Pay close attention to the condition of the battery and what assurances are provided. Peer-to-peer purchases can be risky. The terms “used,” “secondhand,” and “refurbished” can sometimes be misleading. This is what separates reputable marketplaces like Back Market, MusicMagpie, and Refurbed from platforms where you buy directly from individuals such as Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist.

Review Warranties and Return Policies

If issues arise, you’ll want to make sure you’re covered.

Examine Seller Reputation

Check customer reviews and online feedback. On eBay, look for sellers participating in the company’s refurbished product program.

Research Selected Devices

The older the device, the more significant the discount, but if you need to replace it sooner, this could lead to extra costs. Especially for mobile phones and laptops, keeping them updated ensures longevity.

Don’t Sacrifice Quality for Cost

A low price is only worthwhile if the quality is indeed delivered. We prioritize customer service and a transparent refurbishment process over just saving a few bucks.

“When buying refurbished, the best advice is to go through trusted retailers like Back Market, Giffgaff, and Vodafone. If you’re using eBay, look for items labeled as ‘certified refurbished,’” technology journalist Thomas Deehan mentioned in an interview.

Read more: From shockproof cases to updates: How to extend your smartphone’s life

AI in Government: Inept Lawyers, Automated Bureaucracy

Brazilian flag reflected in the capital Brasilia. Photo: Sergio Lima/AFP/Getty Images

Artificial intelligence is infiltrating various workplaces, even those funded by taxpayer dollars. The stakes in election processes and judicial decisions are far greater than those faced by private firms selling errant products, making the use of AI in government appear to be a reckless venture. However, the sluggishness of administrative processes is a global challenge, rendering AI’s potential for efficiency highly appealing. The adoption of AI in government remains in its nascent stages, producing mixed outcomes.

On the upside, countries like Brazil, Germany, and Japan are leveraging generative AI to enhance their bureaucratic functions and increase participatory processes. Nathan E. Sanders and Bruce Schneier, co-authors of the book Rewiring Democracy: How AI Will Transform Our Politics, Government, and Citizenship, note:

Brazil is notorious for its high litigation rates, with more lawyers per capita than the United States. Its courts are consistently overwhelmed with cases, leading to a backlog that costs the government billions.

Since 2019, the Brazilian government has been actively using AI to automate judicial processes. Rather than making legal rulings, AI assists in redistributing workloads, conducting legal research, transcribing hearings, identifying duplicate submissions, preparing initial signature orders, and clustering similar cases for joint assessment, all aimed at making the justice system more efficient. The impact has been significant; Brazil’s Federal Supreme Court backlog reached its lowest point in 33 years in 2025.

In Germany, new tools like Wahlweise and Wahl.chat allow the creation of an AI-powered official wall-o-mat that facilitates interactive discussions with voters, providing tailored information based on their individual interests rather than static web content outlining various political parties’ stances.

In Japan, last year, 33-year-old engineer Takahiro Anno entered the Tokyo gubernatorial race as an independent candidate, finishing fifth among 56 candidates, largely due to his innovative use of a certified AI avatar. This avatar responded to 8,600 voter queries during a continuous 17-day YouTube livestream, capturing global interest in campaign innovation.

Two months ago, Anno was elected to the Japanese Senate, again harnessing AI to engage constituents, this time answering over 20,000 questions. His new party, Team Mirai, pledges to address public queries during committee meetings based on feedback from the Mirai Congress app.

Now for the downside. In California, government attorneys neglected to verify the accuracy of AI-generated outputs while attempting to prosecute an individual. My colleague Cecilia Nowell reports on how a prosecutor’s office in California utilized AI for at least one criminal case, resulting in filings that contained inaccuracies known as “hallucinations.”

The Nevada County District Attorney’s Office in Northern California recently utilized AI to prepare court documents, which led to incorrect citations. District Attorney Jesse Wilson stated, “Once the error was discovered, the application was immediately retracted.”

Defense and civil rights attorneys contend that AI has also been deployed in other criminal court filings.

The Broader TechScape

Source: www.theguardian.com

Asteroid Bennu Contains All the Essential Ingredients for Life as We Know It

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

OSIRIS-REx sample

NASA/Erica Blumenfeld & Joseph Ebersold

Crucial components required for the emergence of life as we recognize it have been found in asteroid Bennu samples. This discovery suggests that Bennu might have transported the vital elements for life to Earth and potentially to other locations.

In 2020, NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission gathered samples from Bennu, an asteroid that travels hundreds of millions of kilometers through space, situated between Mars and Jupiter. The mission successfully returned these samples to Earth in 2023. Since then, the 121 grams collected have been distributed to laboratories worldwide for examination, enabling scientists to start identifying various biological compounds.

Preliminary investigations uncovered the existence of water, carbon, and several organic molecules. Subsequently, they identified amino acids, formaldehyde, and all five nucleobases found in RNA and DNA, along with phosphates. However, these findings do not suffice for constructing molecules that encode genetic information, as the crucial sugars—ribose for RNA and deoxyribose for DNA—were not detected in the initial analysis of the Bennu samples.

Recently, Yoshihiro Furukawa and his team from Tohoku University in Japan ground some of the sample and mixed it with acid and water. They then utilized gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to separate and identify the mixture’s components.

This process confirmed the presence of ribose, alongside other sugars like lyxose, xylose, arabinose, glucose, and galactose, but notably lacked deoxyribose.

“This is a groundbreaking find, showing that sugars exist in extraterrestrial materials,” Furukawa remarked, noting that nearly all life relies on glucose for metabolic processes.

“This is a significant achievement of the OSIRIS-REx mission,” says Sara Russell, from the Natural History Museum in London. Although not part of Furukawa’s team, she also works with Bennu samples. “Previously, the only component missing was sugar, which has now been identified, confirming that all essential elements of RNA were present in this primitive asteroid.”

Furukawa and his colleagues propose that Bennu’s parent asteroid generated sugars from saltwater rich in formaldehyde, suggesting the asteroid was saturated with liquid and exhibited numerous chemical reactions.

“Earlier this year, we reported salt findings in the returned samples, indicating that Bennu’s parent body likely housed a saltwater pool,” Russell stated. “Such conditions would provide an optimal environment for synthesizing the complex organic materials found in Bennu.”

Evidence of saline water on Saturn’s moon Enceladus and the dwarf planet Ceres points towards the possibility that fundamental life ingredients might be plentiful throughout the solar system, according to Russell.

Furukawa’s research includes prior discoveries of ribose and other sugars in meteorites, but he emphasized concerns about potential contamination once these compounds reached Earth. “The presence of these sugars in the Bennu sample affirms the legitimacy of these results,” he stated.

The new findings suggest that the asteroid could indeed have supplied all the requisite components for life to other celestial bodies within the solar system, including Earth and Mars, according to Furukawa. The discovery of ribose but not deoxyribose further supports the RNA world hypothesis concerning life’s origins.

This hypothesis posits that, well before the advent of cellular life or DNA-based organisms, Earth’s earliest life forms were RNA molecules capable of carrying genetic information and self-replication.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

From Gears of War to Uno: 15 Essential Xbox 360 Titles

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved (2005)

Initially a mini-game in Project Gotham, this fast-paced twin-stick shooter, inspired by the 80s, was transformed into an exclusive digital title that gained a massive following. With its stylish vector graphics and rapid gameplay, it was the first to showcase the potential of Xbox Live Arcade.

Fast, frenetic, and incredibly stylish…Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved. Photo: Microsoft

A time sink on an epic scale… The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (Screenshot of the 2025 remake) Photo: Bethesda Softworks

Countless hours were devoted to this groundbreaking open-world RPG. As one of the pioneers in true exploration, it allowed players to traverse anywhere and engage in countless activities. Journeys through Cyrodiil became adventures filled with unexpected mischief, often overshadowing the main quest of combating the gates of hell.

Uno (2006)

The most addictive rendition of the classic card game… Uno on Xbox 360 Photo: Carbonated Games/Microsoft

There’s no denying it – Uno was one of the pivotal Xbox 360 titles. A staple for many of us, it was thrilling to play with a webcam that allowed us to witness our rivals’ expressions during intense Wild Draw 4 moments. As one of the earliest accessible multiplayer game options for consoles, it often diverted players from more complex titles such as Halo or Mass Effect into late-night Uno sessions, leaving echoes of its calming sound effects lingering in our dreams.

Viva Pinata (2006)

Darwinian brutality? …Viva Piñata. Photo: Microsoft

Cultivate a stunning garden, attract vibrant piñata creatures, and watch chaotic predation unfold. While there’s an unexpected level of Darwinian cruelty lurking beneath this seemingly family-friendly game, many weekends in the 2000s were spent nurturing dangerous additions to our paradise. Orstachio lives on forever.

Bioshock (2007)

This half-dystopian adventure and critique of Ayn Rand’s Objectivism allows players to delve into a submerged metropolis fashioned by a megalomaniacal tycoon driven by radical social experiments. Can you draw parallels to today’s technological corporate elite?

Modern parallels… Bioshock. Photo: absurdity

Halo 3 (2007)

An endlessly enjoyable shooting game…Halo 3 Photo: Xbox Game Studios

While Halo may never replicate the charm of its original trilogy, it remains an expansive shooter of its era, concluding the grand space saga of the franchise. Unlike the linear shooter experiences of today, Halo promotes strategic engagement with clever adversaries and an infinite playground for chaos. Yet, the multiplayer experience is what truly resonates in memory—massive encounters powered by vehicles, customizable settings, and the ingenious Forge map editor offered unending fun.

Mass Effect (2007)

Is it better than Star Wars?…Mass Effect Photo: Electronic Arts

BioWare’s expansive sci-fi trilogy may have stumbled to an imperfect conclusion, yet its blend of interstellar battles and romantic encounters retained fans’ fascination for years. Merging RPG elements, strategic squad combat, and a compelling existential dilemma (an evil race of sentient ships), Mass Effect unfolds an unforgettable space opera featuring characters with deep emotional connections.

Fable II (2008)

Easy to enjoy…Fable II. Photo: Microsoft

Lionhead’s distinctly British fantasy title feels lively, engaging, and accessible. Although it may be completed faster than expected, its charm and character resonate more than many other RPGs on Xbox. Bursting with imaginative elements, it fosters the thrill of adventure, and let’s not forget the lovable canine sidekick, despite our enduring grief from his fate in the game.

Gears of War 2 (2008)

The ultimate testosterone-filled cover shooter…Gears of War 2. Photo: Epic Games

Gears 2 enhances its predecessor’s robust mechanics, delivering a premier cover shooter experience that features burly soldiers confronting an alien Horde in a frenzy of obliteration and chainsaw mayhem. Moreover, the introduction of the adrenaline-fueled horde mode initiated the wave-based survival challenge craze.

Lost Odyssey (2008)

Like a forgotten Final Fantasy…Lost Odyssey Photo: Mist Walker

For a brief period, Microsoft endeavored to solidify the Xbox’s presence in Japan, inviting renowned Japanese developers to create exclusive titles. While many of these titles failed, Lost Odyssey stands out, exploring humanity’s journey amidst rapid technological change. Directed by Final Fantasy veteran Hironobu Sakaguchi, it captures the essence of a missing entry from the beloved series.

Ninja Gaiden II (2008)

Choreographed violence…Ninja Gaiden II Photo: Team NINJA

Before Dark Souls, Tecmo’s notorious action series left players either infuriated or exhilarated, with beautifully orchestrated combat letting players sever limbs and unleash stylish attacks. The game brilliantly channels the spirit of classic 80s ninja films, filled with captivating locales and an arsenal of sharp weaponry.

Rock Band 2 (2008)

Rock out forever…Rock Band 2 Photo: Harmonix Music Systems

The ultimate party game, a timeless classic. After pioneering Guitar Hero, Harmonix transitioned into creating Rock Band, a collaborative music experience that invites players to sing, play, and drum using fun plastic instruments. With an exceptional setlist featuring beloved pop-punk and classic rock tunes, Rock Band 2 also offers one of the smoothest gameplay experiences available, whether playing online or with friends in person.

Limbo (2010)

It makes me feel anxious…Limbo. Photo: Triple Point

This artful title, which helped establish Xbox Live Arcade as a platform for experimental gaming, is a haunting puzzle-platformer about a boy’s journey through a hellish, monochromatic world in search of his missing sister. Selling a million copies in its first year, it proved there remains a demand for unique and avant-garde gaming experiences.

Forza Horizon (2012)

Fresh…Forza Horizon. Photo: Microsoft

Project Gotham and Forza Motorsport laid the groundwork, yet Horizon breathed new life into the franchise. It’s an exhilarating driving festival featuring a plethora of activities, from circuit races to stunning stunts, all set in a breathtaking Colorado backdrop dotted with charming roads and vintage automobiles. A perfect blend of gaming and virtual tourism.

Trials Evolution (2012)

Very difficult…Trials Evolution Photo: Ubisoft

Upon its release, Trials Evolution captivated a vast section of the Xbox Live Arcade audience, igniting an obsession with challenging physics-based motorcycle trials. Featuring tight controls and requiring unwavering concentration, this game delivers a rewarding experience, complete with four-player multiplayer and an impressive level editor.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Four Crucial Figures That Could Transform the ‘Masculinity Crisis’ Discussion

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg asserts that businesses require greater “masculine energy.” Former President Donald Trump claims that “humanity is under attack.” The US Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, contends that the Boy Scouts have deviated from their mission of “cultivating masculine values,” and their “boy-friendly space” is at risk.

These voices are not isolated. They are influential figures articulating sentiments that resonate with many men, particularly younger generations, in recent times.

A 2025 study indicates that Gen Z men and women are the most divided generation regarding gender equality, as reported by Ipsos UK and King’s College London’s Global Women’s Leadership Institute.

The survey discovered that 60% of Gen Z men feel pressured to exceed expectations in supporting equality, while 57% believe that society discriminates against men by overemphasizing women’s equality.

What’s driving this divide? Notable statistics suggest a significant crisis might be emerging for men.

For example, men in the United States have, on average, a life expectancy of five years less than women; this gap is more pronounced in recent years. They are now three times more likely to die from drug overdoses and have a fourfold higher risk of suicide.

Beyond these grim statistics, there’s other evidence indicating that men face emerging challenges, particularly in education.

Research from Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan think tank, found that in 1995, young men and women were equally likely to obtain a bachelor’s degree, with approximately one in four completing it. By 2024, however, 47% of women aged 25 to 34 will have earned a degree, compared to only 37% of men, with women’s degree attainment increasing at a much higher rate.

Gender disparities are also visible in schooling. A 2018 study of eighth graders nationwide revealed that while math achievement was comparable, girls consistently outperformed boys in English.

This influence continues post-education. Over the five decades preceding the COVID-19 pandemic, men’s participation in the U.S. workforce declined by about 10%; furthermore, there were additional decreases in the following years.

Yet, these alarming figures represent only part of the narrative. Although men encounter distinct challenges, the data does not suggest that current efforts toward gender equality have exceeded reasonable bounds, despite claims from some in positions of authority. Four frequently cited statistics illustrate the nuanced reality of the situation.

1. Men Report Higher Happiness Levels.

Despite men’s struggles with well-being, surveys indicate that men are generally happier and more satisfied with their lives than women. A 2024 cross-country study found strong evidence that men currently experience higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction than women.

Using data from the U.S. General Social Survey, researchers noted that average happiness levels for men and women were quite similar from 1973 to 2021. However, during the pandemic, happiness levels plummeted for both genders, with women’s satisfaction experiencing a sharper decline.

Moreover, European survey data indicated that men reported higher happiness than women across various dimensions, including calmness, sleep quality, cheerfulness, loneliness, and anxiety.

Men face a higher suicide risk than women but generally report being happier – Photo credit: Getty

2. Men Earn 20% More Than Women.

In terms of earnings, men consistently earn more than women worldwide. According to the United Nations, women’s salaries are approximately 20% lower, a gap that is less favorable than men’s earnings.

This implies that, on average, women earn about 80 cents for every dollar earned by men globally. In the U.S., although the gap has narrowed over the years, women working full-time earn 83% of their male counterparts’ income in 2023.

3. 90% of the Most Powerful Positions Are Held by Men.

Men substantially dominate leadership roles in both government and business.

Worldwide, women are represented in only about 27% of parliamentary seats, meaning that men hold approximately three-quarters of these positions.

Additionally, as of October 2024, only one-tenth of countries globally have a woman in a top government role.

Similarly, a pattern persists in business, where despite a record number of women leading major corporations in the U.S., 55 out of the Fortune 500 have female CEOs.

4. Men Enjoy More Leisure Time.

Another frequently overlooked aspect is that men typically have more leisure time compared to women.

According to recent data shows that American men spend roughly 45 minutes more daily on leisure activities, while women dedicate an extra hour and 20 minutes to unpaid tasks such as housework, shopping, and caregiving.

This disparity is evident to varying degrees in nearly all surveyed countries. In Norway, the difference is minimal, at 4 minutes per day in 2020, while in Portugal, it reaches nearly an hour and a half (89 minutes).

On average, American men enjoy an extra 46 minutes of leisure time daily – Photo credit: Getty

The Real Gender Story

When considered together, these statistics reveal a far more intricate picture than the “male crisis” narrative suggests.

While there are undeniable concerns about men’s health, education, and economic participation, men still hold a disproportionate amount of power, earn higher wages, and enjoy more leisure time.

There isn’t a singular narrative on either side that captures these complexities.

As Professor Jeon Hee-jung, director of King’s Global Women’s Leadership Institute, posits, framing this moment as a crisis of masculinity is misguided. The actual issue is one of opportunity crisis, particularly for the youth.

“We haven’t equipped our boys to understand that the current patriarchal system is detrimental to them as well,” she remarks.

Chung describes the past few decades as a “revolutionary stagnation.” While society has indeed made strides in “masculinizing” women by integrating more women into the workforce and promoting roles in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), societal expectations surrounding caregiving, primary breadwinning, and domestic responsibilities have largely remained unchanged.

Consequently, Chung asserts, the system has been partially rewired, leading to a disconnect and increased friction for all.

“Gender tensions divert attention from real issues, which are the structural changes occurring in society and the various disparities among income groups,” she adds.

In essence, we find ourselves in an unsettling transition between outdated models that are no longer viable and new frameworks that have yet to fully materialize.

This turmoil may evoke a sense of discomfort, but as we progress, the gender gap could begin to lessen, allowing us to tackle the deeper issues influencing people’s lives, as Chung envisions.

read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Instagram’s Age Verification: Adults with Mustaches Over 16—But What About 13-Year-Olds?

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

Instagram’s method for confirming if a user surpasses 16 years old is fairly straightforward, especially when the individual is evidently an adult. However, what occurs if a 13-year-old attempts to alter their birth date to seem older?

In November, Meta informed Instagram and Facebook users whose birth dates are registered as under 16 that their accounts would be disabled as part of Australia’s prohibition on social media use for children. This rule will take effect on December 10, with Meta announcing that access for users younger than 16 will start being revoked from December 4.

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Dummy social media accounts were created on phones as part of Guardian Australia’s investigation into what content different age groups access on the platform.

Instagram notification sent to a test account with an age set to 15. Photo: Instagram/Meta

One account was created on Instagram with the age set at 15 to observe the impact of the social media ban for users under 16. Instagram later stated: “Under Australian law, you will soon be unable to use social media until you turn 16.”

“You cannot use an Instagram account until you’re 16, which means your profile will not be visible to you or anyone else until that time.”

“We’ll inform you when you can access Instagram again.”

Notice informing that test account users will lose access due to the Australian social media ban. Photo: Instagram/Meta

The account was then presented with two choices: either download account data and deactivate until the user is 16, or verify their date of birth.

Instagram notification sent to test account set to age 15 regarding date of birth review options. Photo: Instagram/Meta

The second option enables users to submit a “video selfie” to validate that the account holder is older than 16. The app activated the front-facing camera and prompted the adult test user, distinguished by a thick beard, to shift their head side to side. This resembles the authentication method used for face unlock on smartphones.

Explanation on how the “Video Selfie” feature estimates the user’s age. Photo: Instagram/Meta

The notification indicated that the verification process usually takes 1-2 minutes, but may extend up to 48 hours.

Notification sent to the test account following the date of birth verification request. Photo: Instagram/Meta

The app promptly indicated that accounts created by adult test users were recognized as 16 years or older.

A notification confirming the user’s date of birth was updated by Instagram. Photo: Instagram/Meta

In another test, a 13-year-old boy created a fresh account on his mobile device, avoiding installing Instagram and using a birth date that clearly suggested he was under 16. There was no immediate alert regarding the upcoming social media ban.

When the child attempted to change their date of birth to reflect an adult age, the same video selfie facial age estimation process was performed.

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Within a minute, it replied, “We couldn’t verify your age,” and requested a government-issued ID for date of birth verification.

Facial age testing during the Age Assurance Trial revealed that individuals over 21 were generally much less prone to being misidentified as under 16. Meanwhile, those closer to 16 years of age and minorities experienced higher rates of false positives and negatives.

Meta may have already assessed users who haven’t been notified as 18 years or older, utilizing data such as birth date, account lifespan, and other user activity.

A Meta representative mentioned that the experiment demonstrated that the process functions as expected, with “adult users being capable of verifying their age and proceeding, while users under 16 undergo an age check when attempting to alter their birth date.”

“That said, we must also recognize the findings of the Age Assurance Technical Examination, which highlights the specific difficulties of age verification at the 16-year threshold and anticipates that the method may occasionally be imperfect,” the spokesperson added.

Last month, Communications Minister Annika Wells acknowledged the potential challenges confronting the implementation of the ban.

“We recognize that this law isn’t flawless, but it is essential to ensure that there are no gaps,” she stated.

Meta collaborates with Yoti for age verification services. The company asserts on its website that facial images will be destroyed once the verification process concludes.

The ban impacts Meta’s Facebook, Instagram, and Threads platforms, as well as others such as Kick, Reddit, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitch, X, and YouTube.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Hubble Space Telescope Reveals Stunning New Image of NGC 1792

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

Located in the southern part of the constellation Columba, NGC 1792 is a tempestuous and highly energetic spiral galaxy.

This Hubble image highlights the active spiral galaxy NGC 1792. Image credits: NASA / ESA / Hubble / D. Thilker / F. Belfiore / J. Lee / PHANGS-HST Team.

NGC 1792 is approximately 36.4 million light-years away from Earth, positioned to the south of the constellation Columba, bordering Caelum.

This galaxy, also known as AGC 24019 or LEDA 16709, was identified by Scottish astronomer James Dunlop on October 4, 1826.

The chaotic appearance of NGC 1792 features dust interspersed throughout its disk.

This galaxy is abundant in neutral hydrogen gas, leading to a high rate of new star formation.

“Astronomers find NGC 1792 intriguing, as its tumultuous appearance implies,” stated Hubble astronomers.

“Classified as a starburst galaxy, it serves as a dynamic site for star formation, with spiral arms rich in star-forming regions.”

“Surprisingly, it is quite luminous for its mass,” they added.

“This galaxy is approaching its larger neighbor, NGC 1808. The intense gravitational interaction between the two is believed to have stirred the gas reserves of the galaxy.”

“Consequently, star formation is more concentrated on the side where the gravitational pull is stronger.”

“This makes NGC 1792 an ideal subject for astronomers aiming to comprehend the intricate interactions among gas, star clusters, and supernovae within galaxies.”

In 2020, astronomers utilized Hubble’s Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3) to observe NGC 1792.

The recent images incorporate additional WFC3 data collected in 2025, enriching our understanding of the turbulent astrophysical activity in the galaxy.

“The red light radiating in the arms signals H-alpha emission from a dense cloud of hydrogen molecules,” remarked the astronomers.

“Stars are born within these clouds and emit strong ultraviolet light.”

“This process ionizes the surrounding gas, causing it to emit light at a distinctive red wavelength, a clear indicator of a new star.”

Source: www.sci.news

Sirius Setback: Apple’s AI Chief Steps Down Amid Growing Competition

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

Apple’s artificial intelligence lead, John Gianandrea, is departing the company. This decision comes as the Silicon Valley titan trails behind competitors in launching generative AI features, especially regarding the voice assistant Siri. Apple made the announcement on Monday, expressing gratitude for Mr. Gianandrea’s seven years of service.

CEO Tim Cook noted that his fellow executives played a crucial role in “building and advancing the company’s AI initiatives,” paving the way for continual innovation. Amar Subramanya, a seasoned AI researcher, will take over Gianandrea’s role.

In June 2024, Apple launched its significant AI product suite, Apple Intelligence, but it has been slow to integrate generative AI into its offerings compared to rivals like Google. While Apple has added features such as real-time language translation on its new AirPod earbuds—a capability Google introduced in 2017—and an AI-driven fitness app that uses AI-generated voices during workouts, substantial updates are still forthcoming.

The company has been hinting at AI-powered enhancements for Siri for over a year, yet the release has faced multiple delays.

“For Siri, we required additional time to achieve that high quality,” remarked Craig Federighi, Apple’s vice president of software engineering, during the company’s developer conference in June.

In a subsequent earnings call, Cook emphasized that Apple was “on track to create a more personalized Siri” with a launch targeted for the following year.

The appointment of Subramanya indicates a stronger focus on Apple’s AI strategy. Previously, he was Vice President of AI at Microsoft and spent 16 years at Google, where he led engineering for Gemini AI Assistant, recognized as a benchmark in the industry. Subramanya will report to Craig Federighi, who has expanded his involvement in the company’s AI initiatives in recent years.

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On Monday, Cook shared that Federighi is “helping us advance our AI efforts, including overseeing our initiatives to deliver a personalized Siri experience to our users starting next year.” In their announcement, Apple stated that this marks a “new chapter” for the company as it “intensifies its efforts” in AI.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Perseverance Identifies Triboelectric Discharges Between Martian Dust Devils and Storms

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

Over two years of data collected on Mars by the SuperCam microphone on NASA’s Perseverance rover has led planetary scientists to identify 55 triboelectric discharge events linked to dust devils and dust storms.

Detection of electrical discharges in dust devils by the SuperCam instrument aboard NASA’s Perseverance rover on Mars. Image credit: Nicholas Sarter.

Lightning and electrical phenomena have been observed on Earth, Saturn, and Jupiter within our solar system.

While the possibility of electrical activity on Mars has been hypothesized, it has never before been directly recorded.

The Martian surface, characterized by frequent dust activities and phenomena such as wind-driven dust, sandstorms, and dust devils, can lead to electrical charges similar to those seen on Earth.

Determining whether such electrification occurs on Mars is vital for understanding the planet’s surface chemistry and assessing the safety of future robotic and human exploration missions.

To investigate this, Baptiste Chide and colleagues from the University of Toulouse examined 28 hours of audio recordings from the Perseverance rover’s SuperCam microphone gathered over two years.

The researchers categorized 55 electrical events by detecting interference and acoustic signatures typical of lightning.

Notably, 54 of these events were linked to the strongest wind events recorded during the study, indicating that winds significantly contribute to Martian electrification.

In two encounters with dust devils alone, the spacecraft documented 16 events, suggesting the likelihood of additional, more distant discharges that may have escaped detection by the microphone.

These findings imply that the Martian atmosphere is particularly electrically active during localized dust activity, rather than during wider dusty seasons.

“On Earth, atmospheric electricity primarily results from charge accumulation in clouds and storms, which burst forth as lightning,” remarked Dr. Ricardo Hueso from the University of the Basque Country.

“Conversely, on Mars, atmospheric electricity is dry, generated through collisions between dust particles in whirlwinds and sandstorms, leading to much smaller electrical discharges compared to Earth.”

Dr. Agustín Sánchez Labega, also from the University of the Basque Country, noted: “Mars’ cold, dry, dusty environment features a thin atmosphere of carbon dioxide and can generate very strong winds, creating gusts, whirlwinds, and dust clouds.”

“These phenomena can form extensive storm fronts that stretch hundreds of kilometers and sometimes envelop the entire planet in dust.”

“Thus, we anticipate these once-elusive discharges to be particularly prevalent under such conditions.”

The authors concluded, “Our study raises many questions regarding the impact of natural electricity on the Martian atmosphere.”

For more details, check their paper, published in the Journal on November 26, 2025, in Nature.

_____

B. Chide et al. 2025. Triboelectric discharges detected during Martian dust events. Nature 647, 865-869; doi: 10.1038/s41586-025-09736-y

Source: www.sci.news

The Ancient Giant Mackerel Shark: 115 Million Years Ago in Australian Waters

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

The western order encompasses sharks commonly referred to as mackerel sharks. This group includes some of the most recognized shark species, such as great whites and shortfin mako sharks, along with lesser-known varieties like goblin sharks and megamouth sharks. The recent discovery of a 115-million-year-old giant shark in northern Australia indicates that oligarchs experimented with massive sizes around 15 million years earlier than previously believed, reigning at the top of the marine food chain alongside giant marine reptiles during the era of the dinosaurs.

In the ocean off the coast of Australia 115 million years ago, a gigantic 8m long predatory shark chases an unwary long-necked plesiosaur. Image credit: Polyanna von Knorring, Swedish Museum of Natural History.

Sharks are iconic predators in contemporary oceans, and their lineage dates back over 400 million years.

Nonetheless, the evolutionary journey of modern sharks initiated during the age of the dinosaurs, with the oldest known fossils appearing around 135 million years ago.

These early modern sharks, referred to as olipids, were relatively small, measuring roughly 1 meter in length, but evolved over time into colossal species like the renowned megalodon, which may have exceeded 17 meters, and the great white, known as the modern apex predator of the seas, measuring up to 6 meters.

Sharks possess cartilaginous skeletons, and their fossil record primarily consists of teeth, which are continuously shed as they eat.

This results in shark teeth being commonly found in sedimentary rocks on the ocean floor, alongside the remains of other species, such as fish and large marine reptiles, which dominated marine ecosystems during the time of the dinosaurs.

The rugged coastline around Darwin in northern Australia was once the mudbed of the ancient Tethyan sea, which extended from the southern reaches of Gondwana (now Australia) to the northern island archipelago of Laurasia (now Europe).

Fossils of sea creatures like plesiosaurs, ichthyosaurs, and large bony fish have been uncovered.

Most notably, several giant vertebrae were found, indicating the presence of an unexpected predator: the giant sheep shark.

The five recovered vertebrae were partially calcified, allowing for their preservation, and they closely resemble those of modern great white sharks.

However, while the vertebrae of an adult great white shark measure about 8 cm in diameter, the fossilized sheep shark vertebrae from Darwin exceeded 12 cm in diameter.

These vertebrae also exhibited unique morphological traits, enabling their classification within the Cardabiodontidae family, giant predatory sharks that have existed in the oceans for approximately 100 million years.

Significantly, the rhamniforms in Darwin were around 15 million years old and had already achieved the substantial body size characteristic of cardabiodontids.

“Our findings demonstrate that large body size is an ancient trait, with Australian storkids measuring between 6 to 8 meters long and weighing over 3 tonnes,” stated lead author Dr. Mohammad Bazzi from Stanford University and colleagues.

“This is comparable to some of the largest marine reptiles of their time and indicates that oligarchs entered the apex predator niche early in their adaptive evolution.”

“These sharks were substantial in size and inhabited shallow coastal waters,” added co-author Dr. Michael Syverson, a researcher at the Western Australian Museum.

“This provides significant insights into the workings of ancient food webs and underscores the value of Australia’s fossil remains in comprehending prehistoric life.”

“This discovery not only reshapes the evolutionary narrative of sharks but also enhances Australia’s global significance in paleontological studies.”

“With each fossil discovery, we refine our understanding of ancient oceans and the remarkable creatures that once ruled them.”

For more details on this discovery, refer to the new paper published in Communication Biology.

_____

M.Bazzi et al. 2025. Early giant amnioids mark the beginning of giant body sizes in the evolution of modern sharks. Commun. Biol. August 1499. doi: 10.1038/s42003-025-08930-y

Source: www.sci.news

Volvo and Polestar Leader Urges EU to Maintain 2035 Gas-Powered Car Ban: ‘The Chinese Won’t Wait’

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

A Two Swedish automotive brands, Volvo and Polestar, are spearheading an initiative to urge Brussels to adhere to the established timeline, especially as tensions escalate with Germany increasing its calls on the European Commission to reconsider the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035.

They contend that such a decision is merely a temporary fix for the fractures within Germany’s automotive sector, arguing it would both delay the transition to electric vehicles and inadvertently grant an edge to China.

“Delaying the 2035 target is simply a terrible idea. There’s no other way to put it,” stated Michael Loescherer, the CEO of Polestar, Europe’s sole manufacturer of fully electric vehicles.

“Make no mistake, if Europe fails to spearhead this shift, other nations will take the lead.”

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to reconsider the 2035 deadline. He advocated for permitting the production of new hybrid and high-efficiency internal combustion engine vehicles beyond the cutoff, noting consumer reluctance towards EVs.

“We are sending the right message to the commission with this letter,” Merz asserted, claiming the German government aims to address climate issues in a “technology-neutral manner.”

From Polestar’s transparent office in Gothenburg, Sweden, Loescherer is astounded by the current situation.

His attempts to engage in the EU’s year-long “strategic dialogue” concerning the future of the automotive industry were ignored. “I sent two letters and I’m not even sure if there was a response to the second one,” he shared.

Nearby, viewing the expansive Volvo assembly facility in Gothenburg, Håkan Samuelsson, the 74-year-old CEO of Volvo Cars, reflects on the industry landscape.

“I don’t perceive any reason to slow our progress,” he remarked.

Samuelsson compares the opposition faced by the lucrative automotive sector today to the backlash that greeted catalytic converters and seat belts half a century ago.

“If not mandated, probably 30% of our vehicles wouldn’t come equipped with seat belts, and without a requirement, we likely wouldn’t have seen the adoption of catalytic converters either,” he explained.

Volvo CEO Håkan Samuelsson indicated that reversing the 2035 petrol car ban lacks rationale.
Photo: Josefin Stenersen/Guardian

Volkswagen and BMW can pursue their own paths, Samuelsson noted, but easing up on electrification will only widen the gap with China.

“China will establish factories in Hungary, Slovakia, Romania… countries with low labor costs. I doubt we can isolate China from the EU through tariffs. We need to compete directly with them,” he added.

Samuelsson suggested that von der Leyen need not make an immediate decision and could defer it until closer to the deadline. “We have time. Another 10 years is at our disposal.”

Michael Bross, the Green Party’s representative in the European Parliament, remarked that Merkel’s requests would “significantly dilute” contentious EU legislation and “essentially grant a free pass” to internal combustion engines.

The Greens and the Sweden Party argue that extending the lifespan of hybrid vehicles sends a signal to consumers that electric cars aren’t necessary, thus validating the automobile industry’s stance.

Loescherer shares similar thoughts. “China will not remain static. They will assert dominance. If Brussels opts to suspend this; [target] when they state, ‘We’ll grant you five extra years, stop,’ they are genuinely jeopardizing hundreds of thousands of jobs.”

Polestar CEO Michael Loescherer asserts that abolishing the 2035 deadline is misguided.
Photo: Josefin Stenersen/Guardian

The articulate, marathon-running executive finds it ludicrous to even contemplate abolishing the 2035 target established just three years prior.

Loescherer was involved in the initial discussions that led to the EU’s 2022 resolution to phase out the sale of new internal combustion engines by 2035, a move celebrated by then-Vice President Frans Timmermans as a crucial step toward achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

“During my tenure at Opel, I participated in these meetings and visited Brussels biannually. We debated this extensively,” said the Polestar president.

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“I’m a marathon runner; I’ve completed 126 marathons throughout my life. Would I train and decide to run a half marathon because it’s difficult? No.”

Mr. Loescherer, with extensive experience as former CFO of VW and ex-CEO of Opel and Vietnamese car manufacturer Vinfast, states that Germany, amidst economic challenges, must learn to adapt quickly.

“It’s about mindset, it’s about attitude. Recently, I traveled to China and South Korea and have returned home to Germany.”

“In Germany, the sentiment is clear: everyone wants to safeguard the past, resisting change and striving to maintain the status quo. I’m German, so I can assert this with conviction. In China or the US, the focus is on, ‘What’s the next breakthrough? What’s the next initiative? What’s the next enterprise to launch?’ It’s a significant contrast. The mindsets are fundamentally different.”

Polestar, initially a racing car manufacturer in 1996, was acquired by Volvo in 2015, restructured in 2017, and relaunched as an independent EV manufacturer. Geely Automobile, Volvo’s Chinese stakeholder, now holds a majority stake.

When questioned if Chinese ownership might create unease in Brussels regarding Volvo’s stance, Mr. Samuelsson reiterated that Volvo remains a Swedish entity. “We’ve been part of Ford for 11 years, now we’re in our 14th or 15th year at Geely, and we’re experiencing significant growth. We’re listed on the Swedish stock exchange, adhering to European regulations. We’re Swedish. We are no more Chinese than we are American. We are as Swedish as Ava or IKEA.”

He emphasized that the EU must continue to expedite electrification, asserting its vital role in the future. Polestar has developed a vehicle capable of traveling 560 miles (900 km) on a single charge.

Samuelsson revealed that Volvo has five fully electric vehicles and is on the verge of introducing the EX60, an electric version of its top-selling XC60, already offering a range of 310 to 370 miles.

This approach addresses one of the three primary concerns consumers have when purchasing EVs, noted Samuelsson. The second concern pertains to charging time, which he believes should be reduced to 15 to 20 minutes—akin to the brief breaks drivers typically take for coffee, restroom, or stretching at a rest stop. “In the future, there will be no issue,” he asserted.

“The third obstacle hindering consumer adoption is price,” he continued.

“[If] we in the automotive sector can address these three necessities, the adoption rate for EVs will escalate. Therefore, I see no reason to question whether 2035 is too early. We’ve got time. Our goal should be to accelerate, not decelerate.”

Samuelsson also criticized the ongoing discourse surrounding net zero, arguing that it’s not reflective of real-world progress.

“As I follow the debates in Brazil concerning police issues, I can’t help but ponder whether all this discussion is genuinely advancing climate improvement?”

“I find myself increasingly inclined to believe that technological advancement and innovation are what we truly need to facilitate progress. Mere discussion won’t suffice.”

“Electrification is the effective solution. It benefits the environment, which is crucial. Moreover, it also appeals to customers. It’s one of the rare green innovations that consumers are enthusiastic about as well.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Webb Uncovers Massive Helium Cloud Emanating from WASP-107b

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

By utilizing highly precise spectroscopic observations from the Near Infrared Imager and Slitless Spectrometer (NIRISS) on board the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have identified helium gas escaping from WASP-107b, a super-Neptunian exoplanet located in the Virgo constellation, approximately 212 light-years away.

Artist’s impression of exoplanet WASP-107b. Image credit: University of Geneva / NCCR PlanetS / Thibaut Roger.

WASP-107 is an active K-type main-sequence star situated roughly 212 light-years away in the Virgo constellation.

Discovered in 2017, WASP-107b is among the least dense known exoplanets, categorized by astrophysicists as a “superpuff” or “cotton candy” planet.

This exoplanet has an orbit significantly closer to its star than Earth is to the Sun, completing its orbit every 5.7 days.

While this planet features the coldest atmosphere recorded for an exoplanet, at 500 degrees Celsius (932 degrees Fahrenheit), it remains much hotter than Earth.

This elevated temperature results from tidal heating linked to its slightly elliptical orbit, which may help explain how WASP-107b can expand without invoking extreme formation theories.

“A planet’s atmosphere can sometimes dissipate into space,” explained Yann Carteret, an astronomer at the University of Geneva, alongside colleagues.

“On Earth, we lose just over 3 kg of matter (primarily hydrogen) every second.”

“This phenomenon, known as atmospheric escape, is especially significant for astronomers studying exoplanets in close proximity to their stars. Such planets experience intense heating, making them particularly vulnerable to this effect.”

With data from Webb’s NIRISS instrument, astronomers observed a substantial flow of helium within WASP-107b’s exosphere.

This helium cloud partially obscures the star’s light even before the planet transits in front of the star.

“Our atmospheric escape model indicates a helium flow both in front of and behind the planet, extending nearly 10 times the planet’s radius in the direction of its orbit,” Carteret stated.

Alongside helium, astronomers confirmed the existence of water and various trace chemicals (including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and ammonia) in WASP-107b’s atmosphere.

These findings provide essential insights for piecing together the history of their formation and migration.

The research suggests that the planet initially formed at a greater distance from its current orbit before drifting closer to its star, which may account for the thickening of its atmosphere and gas loss.

“Atmospheric escape on Earth is too weak to have a significant impact on our planet,” noted Vincent Boullier, an astronomer at the University of Geneva.

“However, it could explain the absence of water on Venus, which is nearby.”

“Thus, understanding the mechanisms involved in this process is crucial, as it could erode the atmospheres of certain rocky exoplanets.”

Details of these findings were published in the journal Nature Astronomy.

_____

V. Krishnamurthy et al. Continuum helium absorption from both the leading and trailing atmospheric tails of WASP-107b. Nat Astron, published online on December 1, 2025. doi: 10.1038/s41550-025-02710-8

Source: www.sci.news

Paleontologists Uncover New Species of Mamenchisaurid Dinosaur

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

A recently identified sauropod dinosaur, Mamenchisaurus, was discovered in China, originating from the late Jurassic period.

Reconstruction of the life of Mamenchisaurus species, Mamenchisaurus sinocanadorum. Image credit: Júlia d’Oliveira.

Mamenchisaurus sanggensis existed during the early Oxfordian stage of the Jurassic period, approximately 160 million years ago.

This dinosaur belonged to the divergent Mamenchisauridae family, sharing a close relationship with other Mamenchisaurus species.

“The diversity of sauropod dinosaurs peaked in the Late Jurassic, encompassing numerous geographically widespread non-neosauropod eusauropod lineages (like Mamenchisaurs and turiasaurs) alongside a broad array of globally distributed neosauropod members (Diplodocoidea and Macronaria),” stated Dr. Hui Dai, a paleontologist at the Chongqing Institute of Paleontology.

“Late Jurassic sedimentary formations in China preserve a rich sauropod fossil record, predominantly featuring mamenchisaurids, although precise neosauropod remains are largely recognized from the Middle Early Jurassic period.”

“The dominance of sauropod faunas in Asia contrasts sharply with that of contemporary European and North and South American strata.”

“Additionally, most of the late Jurassic Asian sauropod diversity is traced back to deposits from the lower section, particularly around the transition from the Middle to Late Jurassic.”

A partial skeleton of Mamenchisaurus sanggensis was uncovered at a fossil site in Chongqing, located in southwest China.

“The remains were found in reddish-purple silty mudstone near the upper layer of the Shaximyo formation,” paleontologists noted.

“While a general Callovian-Oxford age for this formation has traditionally been assumed, the exact age remains a subject of debate.”

The discovery of Mamenchisaurus sanggensis adds to the diversity of early-branching sauropod dinosaurs and offers further insights into the evolutionary history of sauropods in northwestern China.

“A deeper understanding of the evolutionary relationships among mid to late Jurassic Chinese eusauropods may have implications for testing theories regarding the isolation of East Asia from western Laurasia and Gondwana during this era and for the paleobiogeographic history of early diverging sauropods and more broadly, eusauropods,” the researchers remarked.

“Nonetheless, our knowledge of this evolutionary transition is incomplete, and a reexamination of specimens is essential to bridge the existing ‘gap’ in East Asian lineages.”

The study was published in the Journal on November 25, 2025 in Scientific Reports.

_____

H. Dai et al. A new mamenchisaurid sauropod dinosaur from the Late Jurassic of southwestern China reveals fresh insights into the evolution of East Asian eusauropods. Scientific Reports, published online on November 25, 2025. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-29995-z

Source: www.sci.news

How Did Mars Acquire Its Moons? – Cyworthy

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

The moon of Earth stands out as a prominent feature in our night sky. Scientists largely agree that during the early stages of Earth’s formation, a smaller, planet-like object collided with Earth, ejecting a substantial amount of material into space. This debris was subsequently pulled into orbit around Earth due to gravity and maintained a slow enough speed to become trapped in Earth’s gravitational field. However, the
giant impact hypothesis
has provided clarity on the origin of our moon. In contrast, the origins of other moons in our solar system, like the Martian moons Phobos and Deimos, remain a topic of debate.

An alternate theory suggests that two small celestial bodies approached Mars early in its existence and collided with the gas and dust clouds left from its formation. This surrounding dust could have decelerated them sufficiently for Mars’ gravity to capture them. This theory is referred to as the
gas drag capture hypothesis
and may account for the existence of Phobos and Deimos. Furthermore, they are composed of
different materials
than those found on Mars
, which raises additional questions.

One challenge to this theory is that the dust density around Mars would have to be several times greater than current models of solar system formation indicate, to slow down approaching objects effectively. Additionally, there’s a question of probability. Although Phobos and Deimos both have orbits that lie within 2° of the Martian equator, the odds of both objects aligning with Mars at an angle that matches the equator is around only 0.00001%.

To investigate the viability of this scenario, two scientists from Japan developed a model aimed at calculating the trajectory of a Phobos-sized object approaching Mars. The aim was to show, through various challenges, that the gas drag trap hypothesis might not be as implausible as previously believed.

Phobos orbits Mars about 3,700 miles or 6,000 kilometers above the planet’s surface and is slowly falling towards Mars. Deimos orbits Mars at a distance of 14,600 miles, or 23,500 kilometers. “Mars Moons” by Muskid is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Initially, the researchers defined the pertinent equations of motion to include in their model. This included variables such as the angular velocity of an object approaching Mars, its distance from the planet, its potential energy, and the drag force that reduces its speed. Additionally, they factored in Mars’ mass and the state of the surrounding matter at the time, which they referred to as the primitive atmosphere of Mars. They estimated this atmosphere’s temperature at 200 Kelvin (approximately -73°C or -100°F) and its density at 4.7 × 10.^-7 kilograms per cubic meter, increasing near the Martian surface and decreasing exponentially with height.

Next, the team needed to establish the initial orbit of the incoming satellite, testing eight different speeds ranging from 20 meters/second to 160 meters/second (about 45 miles/hour to 360 miles/hour) in 20 meters/second increments. There were 4,096 angles of incidence to be tested relative to Mars’ equator and poles, leading to a total of 32,768 initial trajectory combinations for objects approaching Mars.

Their findings indicated three potential outcomes for objects entering Mars’ primordial atmosphere: they could escape Mars’ gravitational grasp, become temporarily trapped, or be permanently ensnared. Remarkably, nearly all objects approached at the slowest speeds were captured in some capacity, while only around 10% of those at the highest speeds were captured. The researchers posited that about 1 in 50 incoming objects would be permanently secured by Mars, particularly if they lost enough energy, limiting their orbits to within 10 degrees of Mars’ equator.

The research team proposed a potential history for Phobos and Deimos, suggesting that due to their composition, they likely formed in the outer solar system, possibly within or beyond the asteroid belt. Over time, they may have been scattered by Jupiter’s gravitational influence, gradually approaching Mars at the right angles and speeds to be captured by its gas, resulting in their current eccentric orbits. Eventually, their orbits became slower, more circular, and moved closer to Mars.

This proposed scenario aligns well with current observations of Phobos and Deimos. The research team anticipates that future
Mars satellite exploration
missions will further investigate these moons. The planned mission will orbit Mars and then Phobos, conducting detailed observations and remote sensing while collecting surface samples to return to Earth, enhancing our understanding of these moons’ origins. The mission is set to launch in 2026, with Phobos samples expected to arrive back on Earth in 2031.

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Source: sciworthy.com

12 Must-Read Science Fiction Novels of 2025

Posted on December 2, 2025 by

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Reading Space: This year’s top science fiction novels

Mikkel William/Getty Images

What are the standout science fiction titles released this year? We will begin with two books that aren’t brand new, yet have recently been translated into English.

First up is ice by Jacek Dukaj, initially released in Poland in 2007 and met with critical acclaim. This alternate history takes place in early 1920s Europe, where a chilling winter has enveloped the land, possibly due to external forces. Our main character must travel on the Trans-Siberian Railway to uncover the truth.

This novel evokes a feeling similar to that of Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials. Imagine if Pullman’s trilogy were reimagined as classic Russian literature, enriched with darker themes and extended passages.

While I favor concise sentences, if you seek substantial and distinctly original science fiction, and aren’t deterred by lengthy yet rewarding narratives, this could be your perfect match.

The second title is Sea Beasts, penned by Iida Turpeinen, which made waves in Finland in 2023. More of a science-themed novel than pure science fiction, it is exquisitely written and much easier to read than Ice. This story discusses the natural world and environmental degradation through the lens of the extinct sea cow’s journey. It’s an ideal seasonal gift for any literary enthusiast who appreciates tales of exploration or early scientific discoveries from the 1700s.

Now, I want to bring attention to a captivating book that has been on my mind since the start of the year. For all science fiction fans, this is likely to catch your interest.

This year’s standout science fiction for me is Slow Gods, the debut sci-fi novel from renowned author Claire North.

Recently, new science fiction works are often likened to those of the late Iain M. Banks, as publishers recognize the fanbase eager for such tales. While direct comparisons might be tenuous, Slow Gods certainly has the ambition and creativity to warrant such praise.

For those who enjoy classic science fiction narratives, I would also suggest Here and Beyond, which tells a captivating story reminiscent of the Generational Ark, authored by Hal LaCroix.

What We Can Know by Ian McEwan, while not strictly science fiction, is set in a sunken vision of Britain, qualifying it as speculative and environmental dystopia. This makes it a worthwhile read even if you’re not typically a fan of McEwan, as many of its themes linger long after you finish.

Another unique and speculative debut is Simply Put, It’s Beautiful, from Roz Dineen, who is gaining a lot of traction in the UK right now.

If you’re interested in short stories and essays within science fiction, I highly recommend View from the Stars, authored by the renowned Liu Cixin, known for The Three-Body Problem. This collection showcases both fiction and nonfiction, demonstrating Liu’s talent as a writer and thinker.

“
New science fiction is often compared to the works of Iain M. Banks. Slow Gods possesses the scope and fearlessness to merit such comparisons.
“

Regarding futuristic technology, I found Somebody Like Me by Lucy Lapinska (which examines robot rights) and Every Version of You by Grace Chan (a fresh perspective on humanity in a digital future) to be particularly appealing.

In conclusion, for a gift opportunity for an aspiring science fiction enthusiast, I revisited three timeless classics this year that have aged gracefully: The Prestige by Christopher Priest (Emotionally Complex Puzzles), Neuromancer by William Gibson (The book that sparked the Cyberpunk movement, still profoundly relevant), and The Draco Tavern by Larry Niven (a series of interconnected short stories filled with unexpected concepts).

I hope you all find joy in your reading adventures!

Emily H. Wilson is the author of Sumerian, a trilogy of historical fantasy novels set in the ancient civilization of Sumer. She is currently working on her debut science fiction novel.

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Source: www.newscientist.com