Shortly after capturing the moment an endangered humpback whale was freed from its restraints, Miesa Grobbelaar remarked that the whale paused and gazed at them, seemingly grateful. The photos documenting the rescue were taken off the coast of Ha’apai, Tonga. For more, visit the Nature Conservancy’s 2025 Oceania Photo Contest.
Grobbelaar and the rescue team answered a distress signal regarding an entangled humpback whale. Upon arrival, they found a heavy, rusted chain embedded deep in its tail, as Grobbelaar shared upon receiving her award. They approached carefully and quietly to untangle her, and eventually succeeded in breaking the chains.
While humpback whales are no longer classified as endangered due to their population rebounding since the mid-20th century whaling days, some specific populations, like those around Tonga, still face risks. These numbers are currently in the low thousands, representing about 30 percent fewer than before commercial whaling started.
“This image captures a paradox: the horrific impacts of human behavior on nature alongside our compassion towards it,” remarked Jarrod Bourde, one of the contest judges, in an official statement.
Pluteus’ Firefly by Nick Wooding
Nick Wooding/TNC 2025 Oceania Photo Contest
The competition featured photographers from Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands and awarded prizes in various categories. This enchanting photo above displays the Pluteus velutinornatus, a fungus growing on trees, which won in the “Plants and Fungi” category. Photographer Nick Wooding stumbled upon the hazel-colored fungus right before it blossomed, and upon revisiting days later, he found it transformed to a pristine white.
Windjana Valley by Scott Portelli
Scott Portelli/TNC 2025 Oceania Photo Contest
Scott Portelli received top honors in the land category with his stunning time-lapse image of stars captured (above) atop a rock wall in Windjana Gorge National Park in Western Australia, famous for its striking red rocks. The mesmerizing effect was crafted using over 600 photographs, illustrating the stars’ movement from dusk till dawn.
Peacock Mantis and Eggs by Peter McGee
Peter Magee/TNC 2025 Oceania Photo Contest
This striking image features a female peacock mantis shrimp (Odontodactylus syralus) captured on film by Peter Magee in Bali, Indonesia. The photograph earned third place in the water category, showcasing the shrimp vigilantly guarding its precious red eggs while observing its surroundings.
Utilizing the Near Infrared Camera (NIRCam) aboard the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have obtained fresh images of the Red Spider Nebula, a prominent planetary nebula located in the constellation Sagittarius.
This web image showcases the Red Spider Nebula. Image credit: NASA/ESA/CSA/Webb/JH Kastner, Rochester Institute of Technology.
The Red Spider Nebula was identified by American astronomer and physicist Edward Charles Pickering on July 15, 1882.
This astronomical object is located roughly 12,420 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Sagittarius.
Commonly referred to as NGC 6537, ESO 590-1, and IRAS 18021-1950, it has an approximate radius of 3.6 light-years.
“Planetary nebulae, like the Red Spider Nebula, form when average stars, such as our Sun, reach the conclusion of their life cycles,” Webb astronomers noted in a statement.
“As these stars expand into cool red giants, they shed their outer layers, propelling them into space and revealing their hot white cores.”
“Ultraviolet radiation from the central star ionizes the ejected material, causing it to emit light.”
“The planetary nebula stage of a star’s lifecycle is both spectacular and brief, lasting only tens of thousands of years.”
“This Webb image displays the central star of the Red Spider Nebula, which shines slightly brighter than the dusty gas web surrounding it.”
In optical images from telescopes such as Hubble, the stars appear faintly blue.
However, in the NIRCam image, it appears red. Webb’s sensitive near-infrared capabilities have unveiled the hot dust enveloping the central star.
“This hot dust likely orbits the central star in a disk-like formation,” the astronomers explained.
“Even though only one star is visible at the nebula’s center, a concealed companion star may exist there.”
“Such a stellar companion could account for the nebula’s shape, including its distinctive narrow waist and broad jets.”
“This hourglass configuration is also observed in other planetary nebulae, like the Butterfly Nebula, which Webb has also recently studied.”
“Webb’s fresh perspective on the Red Spider Nebula reveals, for the first time, the complete extent of the nebula’s extended lobes that resemble the spider’s ‘legs,'” researchers stated.
“These lobes, depicted in blue, are traced by light emitted from H.2, a molecule consisting of two hydrogen atoms bonded together.”
“These lobes, which are visible across NIRCam’s field of view, are shown to be closed, bubble-like structures, each stretching about three light-years.”
“Gas streaming from the core of the nebula has inflated these massive bubbles over countless years.”
“New observations from Webb indicate that gas is also actively being ejected from the nebula’s center.”
“A protracted purple ‘S’ shape at the nebula’s center follows light from ionized iron atoms.”
“This feature illustrates where a fast-moving jet has emerged near the nebula’s central star, colliding with previously ejected material and shaping the nebula’s undulating structure that we observe today.”
Leveraging artificial intelligence can aid the global fight against the climate crisis, but it’s essential for governments to implement regulations on this technology, stated the UN’s director of climate affairs.
AI enhances the efficiency of energy systems and creates tools to lower carbon emissions in industrial practices. The United Nations employs AI to support climate diplomacy efforts as well.
However, Simon Stiel, the executive director of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, expressed that the significant energy demands of large data centers raise concerns that necessitate governmental action.
“AI isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; it carries risks. Yet, it has the potential to be transformative. We need to mitigate those risks while amplifying its catalytic power,” he remarked. “As we manage significant AI platforms, we will innovate ways to run them using renewable energy and encourage energy efficiency.”
He continued, “AI doesn’t replace human effort; it enhances our abilities. Most crucially, it is a force that drives tangible results, aiding in microgrid management, climate risk assessment, and resilient planning.”
Stiel offered an optimistic perspective on global climate actions, asserting that the world is “aligned with the Paris Agreement,” anticipating a surge in renewable energy and new governmental commitments to cut carbon emissions.
Confronted with strong opposition from Donald Trump’s administration, he staunchly defended climate diplomacy while observing the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where world leaders convened amidst significant geopolitical and economic challenges.
“If we look beyond the distractions, the evidence indicates a world that aligns with the Paris Agreement,” he stated. “Investment in renewable energy has soared tenfold over the past decade, with the clean energy transition flourishing across almost all major economies, reaching $2 trillion last year alone.”
While China is at the forefront of the global clean energy surge, nations such as the EU, India, several African countries, and Latin America are also widely adopting clean alternatives. However, investments face hurdles due to the obstacles posed by Trump’s dismantling of federal climate initiatives, even as many state governments and companies uphold their commitments.
Though businesses are recognizing the economic potential of transitioning to a low-carbon future, they still require more investment. A recent study revealed that out of over 700 low-carbon industrial facilities planned worldwide, only 15 secured the necessary funding for full production, representing a remarkable $1.6 trillion (£1.2 trillion) opportunity for investors.
Referring to this research, Stiel emphasized, “We’re not waiting for a miracle. The economics are favorable. Over 90% of newly installed renewables are cheaper than the least expensive new fossil fuel options. The technology and solutions are already available.”
However, he noted that despite companies acknowledging the shift, the tangible benefits of transitioning to a low-carbon economy have yet to be felt in households. “This boom is uneven. Its substantial benefits aren’t equitably distributed,” Stiel remarked.
He further noted that the impacts of the climate crisis are accelerating, necessitating quicker progress. Governments are obliged to develop a new national plan, known as the NDC, for controlling greenhouse gases in accordance with the Paris Agreement. While these were expected to be ready by February, Stiel has extended the deadline ahead of the Crunch COP30 Climate Summit in Brazil this November.
Numerous major economies, including the EU, China, India, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, have yet to officially submit their national plans, while Trump has withdrawn the United States from the Paris Agreement.
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Stiel, who emphasizes the positive economic prospects arising during the climate crisis, stated, “Every challenge has its skeptics.”
“We are now reinforcing and transmitting a stronger, unmistakable message: the world remains firmly committed to the Paris Agreement and is fully engaged in climate collaboration.
Elon Musk has threatened to take legal action against Apple on behalf of the AI startup Xai, alleging that the iPhone manufacturer is favoring OpenAI and breaching antitrust laws regarding App Store rankings. This statement drew a sharp response from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and ignited a feud between the two former business associates at X.
“Apple is operating in a manner that prevents non-OpenAI AI companies from achieving the top position on the App Store. This clearly violates antitrust regulations. Xai is prepared to take swift legal measures,” Musk declared in a post on X.
In another post that day, he stated:
Currently, OpenAI’s ChatGPT occupies the top spot in the “Top Free Apps” category of the US App Store, while Xai’s Grok sits in fifth place. Apple has partnered with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT across iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Neither Apple nor Xai provided any comments.
Altman replied to Musk on X, saying, “This is an unexpected claim considering we’ve heard Elon is attempting to manipulate X for his own benefit and to undermine his competitors, including those he dislikes.” Reports indicate that Musk has tweaked X’s algorithm to favor his own posts.
Altman and Musk co-founded OpenAI in 2015, but Musk departed the startup in 2018 and withdrew his funding after proposing they take control. Musk has since filed two times for a planned shift to commercial entities, alleging “Shakespeare’s proportional deception ceit.” Altman has characterized Musk as a bitter and envious ex-partner, resentful of the company’s achievements post-departure.
Musk responded to Altman’s tweet, stating, “You got 3 million views for dishonest posts. You’re a liar; despite having 50 times your followers, my engagement has far exceeded yours!”
Altman retorted to Musk several times, initially calling the lack of views a “skill issue” or “bot-related” before posing legal questions.
Users on X highlighted through the Community Notes feature that several apps, aside from OpenAI, have claimed top positions on the App Store this year.
For instance, the Chinese AI app Deepseek reached the No. 1 position in January, while Perplexity ranked first in the App Store in India in July.
One user inquired about Grok, X’s native AI. The chatbot replied: “Based on confirmed evidence, Sam Altman is correct.”
Musk’s remarks come as regulators and competitors heighten their scrutiny of Apple’s App Store dominance.
Earlier this year, an EU antitrust regulator ordered Apple to pay a fine of 500 million euros ($581.15 million).
In early 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, accusing the iPhone manufacturer of establishing and maintaining “broad, persistent, and illegal” monopolies in the smartphone market.
mEhdi Hasan was acutely aware of his viral status. The broadcaster and author watched the views surge on YouTube, with his phone buzzing incessantly. However, it truly hit him when, at an event in Washington, someone approached him in Urdu, saying, “I saw you in 20 insanity.”
The individual referenced Hasan’s appearance in the British-American commentator segment. It’s surrounded the gladiators’ web series “1-Many Debate” hosted by Jubilee Media on YouTube. In the episode “1 Progressive vs 20 Far Right Conservatives,” Hasan was questioned about his “ethnic background” by a man whose Guardian was not masking as the organizer of two violent far-right protests. Laughter erupted in the debate when another participant concurred that he was a fascist.
“I saw the vast audience engaged with the youth. I thought it was a good platform,” says Hasan, who launched his own alternative news outlet, Zeteo, last year. “But it was really intense, something I hadn’t anticipated. It was extraordinary, for both positive and negative reasons.”
Hasan’s nearly two-hour discussion, which has been edited and repackaged for continuous redistribution, propelled Jubilee Media into the forefront of mainstream awareness, igniting dialogues about the political and social ramifications of new media formats, alongside various existential uncertainties.
The quickly expanding entertainment company, launched in 2017, captured the attention of youth by transforming Trump’s contentious debates into highly engaging content. Besides debates, it has also developed games and dating shows, yet is facing challenges. Its standout format pits one expert against another on a single chair to debate pressing political issues.
Few raised concerns about traditional broadcasters’ encroachment, with titles like “Flat Earth and Scientists: Can You Trust Science?” (31 million views) and “Can 25 Liberal College Students Betray One Conservative? (feat. Charlie Kirk)” (30 million views). The 2024 Video with Ben Shapiro, featuring a trans man confronting right-wing critics in Four minutes of outrage, was the fifth most viewed election-related content on YouTube.
Jubilee’s 1 Progressive vs 20 Far Right Conservatives (Feat. Mehdi Hasan)
Founder and CEO Jason Yi Lee established Jubilee in 2010 as a nonprofit after his video Basking for Charity went viral. He mentioned to Variety that the organization “aims to illustrate what discourse appears like and should look like.” He envisioned it as potentially “Disney for empathy.” But how does the combative nature of those performances align with the goal of “encouraging understanding and building human connections”?
Spencer Colnharbor, who comments on Atlantic popular culture, perceives idealism as genuine but fueled by ambition. “In Jubilee’s context, empathy defends voyeurism and a curiosity about others,” Colnharbor reflects. “Lee didn’t aspire to be the new UN. He aims to be Disney, a prominently recognized for-profit entertainment entity known for its capacity to commercialize anything and spawn franchises.”
Julia Alexander, a media correspondent for Puck News, noted Jubilee’s advantage from the rise of free speech absolutism and the internet’s shift toward social and video platforms. Yet, she asserts that while it may have initially aimed to alter negativity in discussions, the platform has succumbed to “the hateful vitriol that defines many social media.” She claims they have little hope against “the trivial yet understood currency of the Internet.” Essentially, contentious and alarming content generates more interaction than constructive dialogue.
“I hope they choose to concentrate on generating positive internet content. We surely need it,” she remarks. “Yet, I worry as they are compelled to scale continuously and surpass previous performances, leading to a tendency to produce even more extreme content.”
Hasan, also a contributor to the Guardian, recognizes the allure of the more extreme videos produced by Jubilee. He authored “Win Every Argument,” a book on the art of debate, arguing that traditional media has vacated the battlefield, allowing platforms like YouTube to fill that void.
“Mainstream media performed poorly in facilitating discussion and debate. They gave a voice to those with unorthodox perspectives,” he comments. “But I believe there is a balance between extremes. There are no standards when it comes to censorship versus narrowing opinions. There are no guardrails; as long as you’re clicking, you can post whatever you want on YouTube.”
He acknowledges some criticisms he has received for his engagements, even agreeing with aspects of them. Author and disability rights advocate Imani Barbarin pointed out that Hasan’s takedown clips of far-right militants were shared by progressives celebrating his “victories,” while equally substantial numbers were shared as proof of his failures. “We live in a memetic culture of politics,” Barbarin stated in a post on x. “These moments are literally extracted from space and time. […] The surrounding context of that moment becomes irrelevant.”
Hasan expressed that if he has any regrets, it would be not knowing more about the individuals he faced and failing to recognize the presence of extremists among them. As for overall regret regarding his participation, he contemplates.
“I stand by what I said. I believe I performed adequately in the debate,” he reflects. “The broader question remains: is the format itself problematic? Are these arguments worth making? And I’m uncertain of the answer. Ask me again in five years.”
OpenAI is challenging Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta and the Chinese competitor Deepseek by introducing its own free-to-use AI model.
The developers behind CHATGPT have unveiled two substantial “openweight” language models. These models are available for free download and can be tailored by developers.
Meta’s Llama model is similarly accessible, indicating OpenAI’s shift away from the ChatGPT approach, which is based on a “closed” model that lacks customization options.
OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, expressed enthusiasm about adding this model to the collection of freely available AI solutions, emphasizing it is rooted in “democratic values and a diverse range of benefits.”
He noted: “This model is the culmination of a multi-billion dollar research initiative aimed at democratizing AI access.”
OpenAI indicated that the model can facilitate autonomously functioning AI agents and is “crafted for integration into agent workflows.”
In a similar vein, Zuckerberg aims to make the model freely accessible to “empower individuals across the globe to reap the advantages and opportunities of AI,” preventing power from becoming concentrated among a few corporations.
However, Meta cautions that it may need to “exercise caution” when deploying a sophisticated AI model.
Sam Altman recently revealed a screenshot of what seems to be the latest AI model from the company, the GPT-5. Photo: Alexander Drago/Reuters
Deepseek, OpenAI’s and Meta’s Chinese competitor, has also introduced robust models that are freely downloadable and customizable.
OpenAI reported that two models, named the GPT-OSS-120B and the GPT-OSS-20B TWO, outperformed comparably sized models in inference tasks, with the 120B model nearing the performance of the O4-MINI model in core inference tasks.
The company also mentioned that during testing, it developed a “malicious fine-tuning” variant of the model to simulate biological and cybersecurity threats, yet concluded that it “could not achieve a high level of effectiveness.”
The emergence of powerful and freely available AI models that can be customized has raised concerns among experts, who warn that they could be misused for dangerous purposes, including the creation of biological weapons.
Meta describes the llama model as “open source,” indicating that training datasets, architectures, and training codes can also be freely downloaded and customized.
However, the Open Source Initiative, a US-based industry body, asserts that Meta’s setup for its model prevents it from being fully categorized as open source. OpenAI refers to its approach as “Open Weight,” indicating it is a step back from true open source. Thus, while developers can still modify the model, transparency is incomplete.
In parallel, Google has detailed its latest advances towards artificial general intelligence (AGI) with a new model enabling AI systems to interact with realistic real-world simulations.
Google states that the “world model” of Genie 3 can be utilized to train robots and self-driving vehicles as they navigate authentic recreations in settings like warehouses.
Google DeepMind, the AI division, argues that this world model is a pivotal step toward achieving AGI. AGI represents a theoretical stage where a system can perform tasks comparable to those of humans, rather than just executing singular tasks like playing chess or translating languages, and potentially assumes job roles typically held by humans.
DeepMind contends that such models are crucial in advancing AI agents or systems that can carry out tasks autonomously.
“We anticipate that this technology will play a vital role as we advance towards AGI, and that agents will assume a more significant presence in the world,” DeepMind stated.
In 2021, Google established an ambitious target to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030. Nevertheless, since that time, the company has taken a contrary path by investing in energy-demanding artificial intelligence. According to its latest sustainability report, Google’s carbon emissions surged by 51% between 2019 and 2024.
The intent behind the new research is to challenge even the vast statistics, contextualizing Google’s sustainability report and presenting a more somber outlook. A report from nonprofit advocacy group Kairos Fellowship revealed that, between 2019 and 2024, Google’s carbon emissions increased by 65%. Additionally, from the first year public data on Google’s emissions became available in 2010 to 2024, the total greenhouse gas emissions soared by 1,515%, according to Kairos. The report noted that when Google upped its emissions by 26% from 2023 to 2024, this was the largest increase within that timeframe.
“Google’s own data supports this assertion. Companies are accelerating climate crises, and key metrics—including emissions and water usage—are trending in a concerning direction for both us and our planet.”
The authors of the report found that they discerned Google’s energy consumption and the bulk of the figures used to calculate rising carbon emissions within the appendix of Google’s Sustainability Report. Many of these figures were not prominently featured in the main body of Google’s report, they claim.
Google did not respond promptly to inquiries regarding these figures.
The authors of the report, titled Eco Fail, attribute the discrepancies between the calculated figures and Google’s sustainability report to several factors. Google employs market-based emissions metrics, while researchers use location-based emissions. Location-based emissions represent the average energy consumed from the local electricity grid, while market-based emissions include the energy procured to offset total emissions.
“[Location-based emissions] Franz Ressel, lead researcher and co-author of the report, stated. Businesses may pollute in one area while trying to ‘settle’ those emissions by purchasing energy contracts from elsewhere.”
According to a Kairos survey, the energy demand from Google’s data centers has surged by 820% since 2010. Emissions from electricity purchases for data centers increased by 121% between 2019 and 2024, according to the report’s authors.
“This increase is equivalent to adding 6.8 TWh of energy consumption, comparable to the total energy used by the state of Alaska over a year,” Sugerman explained.
Based on the current trajectory, the Kairos Report authors assert that it appears unlikely Google will meet the 2030 deadline without considerable public pressure. Since 2019, Google has tracked three categories of greenhouse gas emissions, referred to as Scopes 1, 2, and 3, and has made significant reductions in Scope 1 emissions. According to the report, Scope 1 emissions, which include emissions from Google’s own facilities and vehicles, represent merely 0.31% of its total emissions. Scope 2 emissions primarily consist of indirect emissions associated with the electricity purchased to power its facilities, while Scope 3 encompasses indirect emissions from various other sources, including suppliers, the usage of Google’s consumer devices, and employee business travel.
“Continuing to expand at current rates is unsustainable,” Sugerman added.
Thirsty, power-hungry data centers
Amid the construction of resource-intensive data centers across the country, experts are scrutinizing Google’s water usage as well. Google’s sustainability report reveals a 27% increase in water withdrawal to 1.1 billion gallons between 2023 and 2024.
Kairos indicates that this volume is “sufficient to meet the drinking water needs of 2.5 million residents and 5,500 industrial users in Boston and its surrounding areas.”
Tech companies are facing both internal and external pressures to enhance the sustainability of their data centers with clean energy. Recently, Amazon employees proposed a series of shareholder proposals which compelled the company to disclose its overall carbon emissions and assess the impact of its data centers on the climate. This proposal was ultimately voted on. Multiple organizations, including Amazon’s Employees for Climate Justice, the Conservation Voters Federation, Public Citizens, and the Sierra Club, published an Open Letter in the San Francisco Chronicle and the Seattle Times, urging the CEOs of Google, Amazon, and Microsoft to “refrain from committing to new gas and delaying coal plants to power their data centers.”
“In just the last two years, your corporation has constructed data centers across the United States that could consume as much electricity as 4 million American households,” states the letter. “Within five years, these data centers alone will use enough electricity for more than 22 million households, comparable to the consumption of several medium-sized states.”
In its sustainability report, Google cautions that the company’s “future trajectory” may be influenced by the “evolving landscape” of the tech industry.
“We are at a significant inflection point due to the rapid growth of AI, which affects not just our company but the entire tech sector,” the report explains. “The unprecedented pace of development and potential nonlinear growth driven by the uncertain availability of clean energy and infrastructure needed to support this growth may affect our capacity to project future emissions and reduce them.”
The Kairos report criticized Google for its “heavy reliance on speculative technologies, especially nuclear power,” in pursuit of its 2030 zero carbon emissions goal.
“Google has concentrated on nuclear energy as a ‘clean energy solution’, despite the prevailing consensus among scientists and industry experts that achieving successful large-scale deployments will not happen in the near or medium term,” the report states.
Furthermore, the Kairos report contends that Google’s presentation of certain data can be misleading. For instance, in discussing data center emissions, Google claims a 50% improvement in energy efficiency over 13 years. The report’s authors argue that focusing on energy efficiency figures rather than sharing absolute emissions numbers obscures Google’s total emissions.
“Since 2010, the company’s overall energy consumption has increased by 1,282%,” the report concludes.
Apple’s latest Worldwide Developers Conference saw the company’s artificial intelligence features take a back seat. While new functionalities were announced for the Apple Watch and Vision Pro, alongside enhanced software designs known as Liquid Glass, and new phone and camera applications, Apple’s AI-related announcements were limited to minor upgrades amidst pressure to keep pace with competitors heavily invested in AI.
One anticipated feature is Live Translation, offering real-time language translation across messaging, FaceTime, and phone apps, incorporating multiple capabilities powered by Apple Intelligence. It’s noteworthy that similar features have been available on the Android platform for some time. Additionally, a new Fitness app has been introduced, utilizing AI-generated voices to assist users during workouts.
Consumers may soon experience enhancements in AI for applications beyond mobile. The company revealed that it enables app developers to utilize Apple’s large-scale, on-device language model, enhancing AI experiences in third-party applications. Users will have the choice to opt in or out of sharing their data or information off-device with developers.
At last year’s WWDC, Apple announced a suite of upgrades for Siri, aiming to make the virtual assistant more engaging and dynamic. However, many of these features remain unreleased despite Apple’s assurances.
Craig Federighi, Apple’s VP of Software Engineering, previously mentioned that “this task required more time to reach a quality standard,” referring to the delay.
Forrester VP principal analyst Dipanjan Chatterjee noted that Siri’s muted presence was “deafening.”
Chatterjee stated, “This subject was quickly brushed aside, leaving next year shrouded in uncertainty. While Apple continues to refine the features of Apple Intelligence, superficial updates like text corrections and whimsical emojis cannot satisfy the demand for an intuitive, interactive AI experience. The timeline for Siri’s evolution is rapidly approaching, and Apple needs significant advancements.”
Additionally, Apple has formed a partnership with ChatGPT, a strategic move to help the iPhone maker compete with AI giants such as OpenAI, Microsoft, and Google. Dan Ives, an analyst at Wedbush Securities, suggested that Apple may need to forge more partnerships to stay competitive.
Ives concluded, “Overall, WWDC articulated the developers’ vision, but following last year’s setbacks, there was no remarkable progress in Apple Intelligence as Cupertino remains cautious.”
“We understand the strategy, but this is a significant year for Apple to capitalize on the AI front, possibly compelling us to pursue larger AI acquisitions to advance this strategy.”
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Built as a reimagining of id Software’s 2016 “Doom Eternal,” “Dark Ages” diverges significantly while still echoing the essence of its lineage. Whereas the 2020 iteration focused on speed and evasion, “Dark Ages” emphasizes a staunch, grounded approach. If the previous game revolved around eliminating foes one at a time, this installment empowers players to obliterate hordes of demons simultaneously. The frantic, rapid-fire nature of “Eternal” gives way to a brute force mentality in “Dark Ages,” where smashing through enemies becomes the primary strategy. The essence of ripping and tearing is still prevalent, with an emphasis on raw power.
At the heart of “Dark Ages” lies a combat system reminiscent of the original 1993 game, drawing inspiration from slowly launched projectiles from iconic enemies like Imps, Kakodemons, and Hell Knights. This new chapter intensifies those encounters, featuring an array of foes that hurl fireballs, floating orbs, and energy barriers, all while straying from the traditional two-dimensional arena.
The interdimensional battlefield shimmers with energy.
Photo: ID Software
Players must navigate these new challenges as they control slower, heftier slayers of doom. Shields play a crucial defensive role against various projectiles, not only blocking attacks but also reflecting some back at their origin. Successfully countering projectile attacks catches opponents off guard and opens them up for “glorious kills.” Although brutal, these maneuvers are generally less intricate than in earlier games, often reduced to straightforward punches and kicks.
While many demons follow easily recognizable attack patterns, the most formidable adversaries engage in fierce close-range duels. These confrontations occur within expansive arenas, where smaller foes swarm around larger ones, often shielded by rows of undead minions. ID Software has introduced several innovative weapons to tackle these hellish legions, including railroad spike launchers that absorb demons and shotguns that deliver devastating close-quarter firepower.
The scale is remarkable.
Photo: ID Software
This captivating reformulation of core combat mechanics provides as much enjoyment in mastering its rhythm as it does in witnessing its destructive consequences. However, the slower pace and limited toolset may not evoke the same adrenaline rush at its peak as previous entries.
This slower pacing is amplified by the expansive design of “Dark Ages.” With 22 levels that are often open-ended, players can choose their battles and discover secrets in their preferred order. Yet, despite the impressive scale, the traversal can become monotonous, resulting in a feeling that the game may not fully capitalize on its combat potential.
ID Software tries to counteract the slow tempo by incorporating diverse gameplay mechanics. Certain maps allow players to pilot a massive mech named Atlan, delivering impactful punches to colossal demons, while others introduce aerial maneuvers atop dragons. While these elements bring novelty, they tend to lack significant depth, recalling the mandatory vehicle sections prevalent in early 2000s shooters.
Nonetheless, I appreciate the experimental nature of “Dark Ages.” The developers seem committed to exploring new directions, striving not to rely solely on past successes like some other franchises. Their goal appears to be redefining shooter mechanics with every new release. While “Dark Ages” may not reach the heights of previous ID Software titles, it remains a well-crafted and thoughtfully designed shooter that delivers heavy hitting moments.
Amazon announced a significant advancement in robotics, having developed a robot equipped with tactile sensors capable of grasping approximately three-quarters of items in its expansive warehouse.
During the “future delivery” event held on Wednesday in Dortmund, Germany, the US company unveiled plans to deploy this technology globally over the next few years. The aim is to assist humans in sorting items for storage and preparing them for delivery, amidst the growing operations of online retailers.
Aaron Parness, the Robotics Director at Amazon, referred to Vulcan as “a major leap in robotics,” highlighting the robot’s ability to not only observe its environment but also to perceive it through touch, facilitating tasks previously deemed impossible for Amazon robots.
These robots can identify objects through touch, utilizing AI technology. They work collaboratively with humans who handle and retrieve items from shelves to assist them at picking stations equipped with wheeled robots.
Vulcan robots facilitate storage in shelving units at both the top and bottom levels, referred to as pods, eliminating the need for workers to use ladders. Currently, Amazon’s warehouse robots can employ suction cups and computer vision to manipulate and select items.
Such advancements may evoke concerns about job losses, as retailers reduce human labor in distribution centers that employ thousands.
Many retailers are increasing automation investments due to rising global labor costs. Amazon faces industrial challenges beyond just low wages in its UK warehouses.
Goldman Sachs economists predicted in 2023 that as many as 300 million jobs globally could be eliminated by 2030 due to the rise of generative AI, fundamentally altering various roles.
In the UK, estimates suggest that between 60,000 and 275,000 jobs could vanish annually over the next decade amidst ongoing upheaval, as proposed by the Tony Blair Institute.
Nonetheless, Tye Brady, Amazon’s lead robotics engineer, asserted that robots cannot entirely replace humans in their facilities, stating that they “enhance human potential” to improve workplace safety. He humorously referenced his affection for R2D2, likening their supportive design to that of a “cooperative robot.”
“Humans will always be part of the equation,” he noted, explaining that robots take on “menial, mundane, and repetitive tasks.”
“Complete automation isn’t feasible just yet. We will always require human oversight to understand operational value.”
He also emphasized that individuals play a critical role in safeguarding against potential hacking, especially after incidents like the cyber attack that disrupted Marks and Spencer’s online services.
“Machines can detect hacks, but human intervention is often what reveals them, making it beneficial to have people involved,” said Brady.
He also noted that humans excel at identifying minor issues, such as package damage or leaks during delivery that could disrupt the system.
According to Brady, AI is enhancing robot development, allowing them to navigate complex spaces autonomously while learning to move safely alongside humans and other objects. He highlighted that the latest generation of robots can “seek help” and adapt to new methods effectively.
“It’s thrilling to integrate both cognition and physical capability,” he said. “We’re just starting this exciting journey.”
For instance, Amazon plans to incorporate technology leveraging machine learning and automation to create customized packaging that minimizes waste. By the end of this year, over 70 machines will be operational in Germany, the UK, France, Italy, and Spain, with more planned by 2027.
This announcement coincides with Amazon’s launch of a budget-friendly delivery service in the UK, featuring thousands of products priced under £20, as the company takes over low-cost competitors Sheen and Tem.
This Hubble image shows Messier 104, a galaxy 28 million light years away in the Virgo constellation. Image credits: NASA/ESA/Hubble/K. Noll.
Messier 104 It is about 28 million light years away from the Virgo constellations.
Also known as the Sombrero Galaxy, M104 or NGC 4594, this galaxy is I discovered it May 11, 1781, by French astronomer Pierre Mechine.
It has a diameter of approximately 49,000 light years. This is about three times the Milky Way galaxy.
The Messier 104 has a very large central bulge, hosting an ultra-high Massive black hole.
At a 6-degree angle south of the plane, you can see the Galaxy Edge-On. That dark Dustlane dominates the scenery.
Over the past 20 years, Hubble has released several images of the Messier 104. This well-known image Since October 2003.
“It’s packed with stars, but the Sombrero galaxy is surprisingly not a hotbed of star formation,” Hubble astronomers said in a statement.
“Less than one solar mass gas is converted into a star in a dusty disk with a fading knot.”
“At the 9 billion solar mass, even the central, ultra-huge black holes in a large galaxy, more than 2,000 times the central black holes in the Milky Way, are pretty calm.”
“The galaxy is not too faint to find with sincerity, but it is easily viewed with a modest amateur telescope.”
“From Earth’s perspective, galaxies are about a third of the diameter of a full moon.”
“The galaxy in the sky is too large to fit in Hubble’s narrow field of view, so this image is actually a mosaic of several images sewn together.”
“One of the things that make this galaxy particularly noteworthy is its viewing angle, tilting just six degrees away from the galaxy’s equator.”
“From this perspective, the complex clumps and shattering chains stand out in the nucleus and bulge of the bright white galaxy, unlike Saturn and its rings, produce an effect on the scale of the epic galaxy.”
“At the same time, this extreme angle makes it difficult to identify the structure of the Sombrero galaxy,” they said.
“It’s not clear if it’s a spiral galaxy like our own Milky Way or an elliptical galaxy.”
“Unbelievably, galaxy disks look like fairly typical discs of spiral galaxies. The spheroid bulge and halos look quite typical in oval galaxies, but the combination of the two components is neither a spiral nor an elliptical galaxy.”
India’s IT Ministry has unlawfully extended its censorship authority to facilitate the removal of online content and allow “countless” government officials to enforce such orders.
The lawsuit and accusations indicate the escalation of the ongoing legal dispute between X, who is being instructed by New Delhi to take down content, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This comes as Musk prepares to launch Starlink and Tesla in India.
In a recent court filing dated March 5, X argues that India’s IT ministry is utilizing a government website launched by the Home Office last year to issue content blocking orders and compel social media companies to participate on the website. According to X, the process lacks stringent Indian legal safeguards concerning content removal, requiring the issuance of an order in cases of sovereignty or public order harm and involving strict monitoring by top officials.
India’s IT Ministry redirected a request for comment to the Home Office, but did not respond.
The government’s website stated it was attempting to counter the directive by establishing an “unacceptable parallel mechanism” that would lead to “unchecked censorship of Indian information.”
X’s court documents have not been publicly released and were initially reported by the media on Thursday. The case was briefly heard earlier this week by a judge from the Southern High Court of Karnataka, but a final decision was not reached. The next hearing is scheduled for March 27th.
In 2021, X, previously known as Twitter, faced a dispute with the Indian government over defying a legal order to block certain tweets related to farmers’ protests against government policies. X eventually complied after facing backlash from the public, but the legal challenge remains ongoing in Indian courts.
dDid you know that soundtrack concerts are the most popular orchestra tours? A third of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s first-time audiences have come to the concert hall through their favorite series, films, and video games. It is a huge cultural growth field and may not be recognized by the public.
“Now it’s impossible to ignore video game music,” says Tommy Pearson, founder and artistic director of London’s first soundtrack festival. “The creativity and artistry of the game are incredible and it’s fascinating to see many composers blossom in the genre.”
As one of the lead architects behind the festival, Pearson was keen to create space for video games as part of the celebration, not just as an “add-on” to television and film soundtracks, but also as an equality in art forms. “When we first thought about what we would do at a festival, including that music in the game isn’t easy, it must be there absolutely, along with film and television music. It has an audience of very dedicated fans, and the music is as good as what is written in any genre.”
Tommy Pearson, artistic director of the London Soundtrack Festival. Photo: London Soundtrack Festival
The festival from March 19th to 26th will consist of live performances, panel discussions, screenings, Q&AS and masterclasses. One of the important events The cutting edgea composer who won a Grammy and Iver Novello Award for his work in Video Game Music by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, Masterclasses of Stephen Burton and Gordie Herbs, and a work in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor.
Why is 2025 the best time for the first soundtrack festival in London? “We watch millions of streams of game soundtracks every day,” Burton says. “Instagram and Tiktok have a huge amount of social media content, not to mention the world of Twitch where streamer playlists are a big part of their identity. The record industry is keeping up with this.”
“You can see streaming numbers climbing in real time, but you can feel it anywhere, beyond the data,” adds Haab. “Game music is not limited to consoles anymore. It is woven into everyday life. For example, my nie and ne have purely rotated gaming soundtracks for pure fun. At game events, I know notes on these themes. I stand on my own as film music, as legitimate art forms.
“Fans know these themes. Photo: Kojima Production
Composers Rudig Forsell (Stronging of Death), Harry Gregson Williams (Metal Gear Solid), Stephanie Economy (Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Dawn of Ragnarok), and Borislavslavov (Gate 3 of Bardur) are all part of a panel discussing game music before participating in the evening performance.
“It’ll be hard to find someone who can’t sing a song from Super Mario Bros., Final Fantasy, Hello, or The Legend of Zelda,” says Econow. “Video game music is common because video games are common. The industry itself is more profitable than the combined film, television, and music industries, so when people think that popularity is suddenly rising, all I can think of is getting more recognition and celebrations in the sphere that has finally been released.
“The London Soundtrack Festival is a great opportunity to celebrate the differences and diversity of media music,” adds Forssell. “Video games may still be Brock’s new kids, but in a way they will definitely stay here. And as composers, we hope that we will always have a unique approach to music in general, including movies, TV, video games, pop, rock, music.”
Pearson and the team of composers he framed are watching the event as a celebration of the state of video game music. “These are all amazing, highly respected composers who have produced amazing, exciting scores that have been extremely successful in the games and concert halls,” says Pearson.
Can non-game audiences accept video game music as much as television or movies?
“It’s always going to be a bit silly when it comes to media music,” Pearson says. “But it isn’t as close as it used to be.
In recent months, game makers have faced challenges with age classifications for video games. Age ratings are meant to assist parents in determining if a game is suitable for their children. However, incorrect labels can mislead consumers and impact the success of a game.
Balatro is a poker game created by an anonymous developer known as LocalThunk. The game relies on chaos, with constantly changing conditions that challenge players to form the best possible poker hands. Players earn in-game money to buy new cards during each round, adding an element of strategy. Despite its initial success, Baratoro faced classification issues when it was labeled as a gambling game.
Originally rated for ages 3 and older, the game was later reclassified as suitable for adults only. This decision caused Baratoro to be removed from digital storefronts in Europe and Asia. The publisher, PlayStack, appealed the decision but faced obstacles in various regions.
Ultimately, after updates and appeals, Baratoro received a Pegi rating of 12 or higher, resolving the classification issue. The experience highlighted the challenges of rating systems and the impact they can have on game sales.
Pegi clarified its standards for assessing games that depict gambling, aiming to provide fair and accurate classifications. The case of Baratoro led to the development of a more detailed classification system for games involving gambling.
While the reclassification brought relief to publishers, it also raised questions about age rating systems and their ability to inform consumers about game content. The evolving nature of rating systems reflects the need to adapt to changing cultural expectations in the gaming industry.
Balatro’s journey highlights the importance of clear and accurate age classifications for games and the ongoing need to ensure that players understand the content they are engaging with.
NASA’s Lucy spacecraft flies by the small asteroid Donald Johansson on April 20, 2025.
By flashing between images captured by NASA’s Lucy spacecraft on February 20th and 22nd, 2025, this animation shows Donald Johansson’s perceived movement against the background star as the spacecraft rapidly approaches the asteroid. Image credit: NASA/GODDARD/SWRI/JOHNS HOPKINS APL.
Donald Johansson It is a carbonaceous small intestine about 4 km (2.5 miles) in diameter.
First discovered by American astronomer Sheltebas at the Siding Spring Observatory on March 2, 1981, it orbited within the inner region of the main asteroid belt.
NASA’s Lucy spacecraft will pass within 960 km (596 miles) of Donald Johansson on April 20th.
“This second asteroid encounter for Lucy will serve as a rehearsal for Jupiter’s Trojan asteroid outfit, the spacecraft’s main target,” a member of the Lucy team said in a statement.
“The spacecraft had already successfully observed the main belt asteroid Dinkinesh and its moon, Serum and Serum in November 2023.”
This diagram shows NASA’s Lucy spacecraft passing through one of the Trojan asteroids near Jupiter. Image credit: Southwest Research Institute.
“But at a distance of 70 million km (45 million miles), Donald Johansson is still dim, but he stands out clearly in this area of relatively faint stars in the constellations of Sextane,” the researchers said.
“The north of the sky is on the right side of the frame, with a 0.11-degree field of vision corresponding to 85,500 miles (140,000 km) of asteroidal distance.”
“Of the two images, another dimly lit asteroid can see the photobomb in the quadrant at the bottom right of the image.”
“However, as the headlights of approaching cars often remain relatively still, Donald Johansson’s obvious movement between these two images is much smaller than that of this intruder, who has fallen out of sight in the second image.”
According to scientists, Donald Johansson was named after anthropologist Donald Johansson, who discovered “Lucy.” Lucy Mission is named after the fossil.
“Lucy will continue to image Donald Johansson as part of his optical navigation program for the next two months. The optical navigation program will use the apparent position of the asteroid against the star’s background to ensure an accurate flyby,” they said.
Nigeria has filed a lawsuit seeking $79.5 billion from the government for economic losses caused by $2 billion in cryptocurrency exchange operations and back taxes, according to court documents filed on Wednesday.
Authorities have criticized Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, blaming it for the devaluation of the Nigerian currency. Two executives of the company were arrested in 2024 after local Naira trading websites emerged as popular platforms. Binance, which is not registered in Nigeria, has not yet commented on the situation.
The Nigerian Federal Internal Revenue Service (FIRS) claims that Binance owes corporate income tax due to its significant economic presence in the country. FIRS is seeking income tax payments for 2022 and 2023, along with a 10% annual penalty on the outstanding amounts. Additionally, FIRS is demanding an unpaid tax rate of 26.75% based on the interest rate of the Nigerian central bank.
Nigeria is already facing four counts of tax evasion related to the cryptocurrency industry, including non-payment of VAT, company income tax, failure to file tax returns, and conspiracy to help customers evade taxes through the platform.
In response to the allegations, Binance announced in March that it had halted all Naira transactions. The company is also facing separate allegations of institutional money laundering, which it has denied.
tYears ago, Parisian studios did not effectively create a new subgenre of narrative adventures, with teenage mystery life is strange. Part thriller, some relationship drama, it created an emotional Paean with unwavering friendship, using music, art and friendly characters. After a series of sequels, Nod's Montreal Studios created a new story about teenage relationships, split into two episodes or tapes.
In 1995, the introverted teen Swan faces his last quiet summer in a rural Velvet, Michigan town before his family moved to Vancouver. However, in the parking lot of a local video store, she meets fellow 16-year-old Nora, Autumn, and Kat, and the four girls bond about boredom and frustration with small town life. Soon they are inseparable, hiking in the nearby forest, setting camp fire, and confessing their secrets. Here they form the Bloom & Rage of the riot grrrl band, leading their dreams, desires and fear into fantasies of fame and revenge against silly boys and oppressive parents. However, when their swirling emotions seem to awaken a supernatural being in the forest, something terrible happens and the girls swear each other to the secrets of their lives.
A quiet summer, and… Lost record: Bloom & Rage. Photo: Don't nod
Twenty-seven years later, the group meets again in a rough bar on the outskirts of the town, which holds a special connection to their stories. Fall received an ominous package addressed to their band. Anything in the box could be the horrifying result of that tumultuous summer.
In the typical style of Not Nod, the game captivates interactive scenes and cinematic sequences, controlling the conversation that subtly shapes your relationships and story direction. The story interacts between two timelines that remind you of 2022 and two pivotal summers together in 1995. Sometimes the decision you make at the bar as 43-year-old Swann is renovated into her youthful experience, creating a fascinating ambiguity of causality and memory.
As with how we edit memories, just as it actually happens… Lost Records: Bloom & Rage. Photo: Don't nod
Certainly, this game is about how we create and edit memories, just as we do what actually happens to girls. Swann is an avid filmmaker, and 1990s video cameras are with you throughout the game. You can always press the appropriate trigger and see the world through the camcorder lens. In the main story, we use it to shoot a band's music video, but you can record it at any time. This feature is incentivized by a bunch of theme checklists. Record 10 different birds, or 5 ruined playground rides, or graffiti snatches. But you can also capture your own scenes from and around town, record friends casually, and build sequences of themes that can be stored and edited. The interface recalls games like No Man's Sky and Marvel's Spider-Man, where shooting objects are practical gameplay components, but here the camcorder is also a factor of recollection and nostalgia. At the same time, we ask an interesting question about how the role of a player, both as a gamer and a cinematographer, relates to the protagonist, which we embodies in the game.
It's not the only clever trick the game plays in formats and conventions. For example, the dialogue system is specially designed to capture the dynamic energy and chaos of excitatory groups. Options and responses vary depending on who you are watching while you are speaking, characters screaming at each other and comments are lost in the noise. Sometimes you can time out the options in the dialog and choose not to say anything. In some great moments, this mechanic captures the desperate improvisational nature of a teen relationship, moments of wobbling or fleeting eye contact with one comment all day long.
You may find the dialogue to be robust and overly listened, and the sense of authenticity is increased. Those who have played Life Is Strange also see many similarities with the game, especially between Swann and Max Caulfield.
But like its predecessor, Lost Records stunningly captures the way in which seemingly insignificant moments are billed in meaning in younger adults. There's a picnic by the lake, then there's a game of truth or a crackle with absolute strength. The 90s setting is well supported with support with spot-on-contemporary references, from grunge band mixtapes to video players and trawldolls.
In the background, there is subtly a hint of the mystery at the heart of the game, and there is much to expect from the second part. Mainly, it's the character and its vulnerable relationship that sticks to you. Three days after finishing the game, I'm still thinking about them. Unless you simply refuse to indulge in emotional young adult drama, you will be there too.
The Hubble team has released a striking new image of the center of NGC 5643, a spectacularly designed spiral galaxy in the constellation Lupus.
This Hubble image shows NGC 5643, the Grand Design Spiral in the constellation Lupus, about 55 million light-years away. Image credits: NASA / ESA / Hubble / A. Riess / D. Thilker / D. De Martin, ESA & Hubble / M. Zamani, ESA & Hubble.
NGC5643 It is located approximately 55 million light years away in the constellation Lupus.
The planet, also known as ESO 272-16 and LEDA 51969, was discovered by James Dunlop on May 10, 1826.
NGC 5643 is classified as a Grand Design Spiral due to its prominent and graceful spiral arm.
It is approximately 100,000 light-years in diameter and contains an active galactic nucleus of type Seyfert 2.
“NGC 5643 is what is known as a Grand Design Spiral, which refers to how the galaxy's two large, sinuous spiral arms are clearly visible,” Hubble astronomers said in a statement.
“The spiral arms are defined by bright blue stars, lacy reddish-brown dust clouds, and pink star-forming regions.”
“As fascinating as the galaxy is at visible wavelengths, some of NGC 5643's most interesting features are invisible to the human eye.”
New images of NGC 5643 consist of observations from. Hubble's Wide Field Camera 3 Found in the ultraviolet, infrared, and optical portions of the spectrum.
Nine filters were used to sample different wavelengths. Color is obtained by assigning different hues to each monochromatic image associated with an individual filter.
“The ultraviolet images, X-ray images, and spectra of NGC 5643 show that this galaxy has an active galactic nucleus, a particularly bright galactic nucleus driven by a feast of supermassive black holes,” the astronomers said. said.
“When a supermassive black hole takes in gas from its surroundings, it collects in a disk and heats it up to hundreds of thousands of degrees.”
“Superheated gases glow brightly across the electromagnetic spectrum, but especially at X-ray wavelengths.”
“However, NGC 5643's active galactic nucleus is not the brightest X-ray source in the galaxy,” the researchers added.
“Researchers using ESA's XMM Newton discovered an even brighter X-ray emitting object called NGC 5643 X-1 on the outskirts of the galaxy.”
“What source of X-rays is more powerful than a supermassive black hole? Surprisingly, the answer appears to be a much smaller black hole.”
“The exact identity of NGC 5643 X-1 is not yet known, but evidence points to it being a black hole with about 30 times the mass of the Sun.”
“A black hole trapped in an orbital dance with a companion star captures gas from the companion star, creating a superheated disk above the center of the galaxy.”
Hubble astronomers previously released images of NGC 5643 in 2020.
Meta’s efforts to incorporate artificial intelligence systems in the UK public sector have advanced with the tech giant granting funding to develop technology to reduce waiting times in NHS A&E.
In the midst of competing initiatives by Silicon Valley tech companies to collaborate with national and local governments, Meta hosted Europe’s first ‘hackathon’ where over 200 programmers were challenged to use its Llama AI in UK public services. They were tasked with finding ways to implement the system. A Meta executive stated that they were ‘focused on Labor’s priorities’.
This development followed reports of another US tech company, Palantir, lobbying government officials, including the Department of Justice and Prime Minister Rachel Reeves. Additionally, Microsoft recently sealed a five-year agreement with Whitehall departments to provide AI Copilot technology to civil servants.
Meta’s hackathon featured Nick Clegg, former deputy prime minister and current president of international affairs at Meta in California. Ferial Clarke, the UK’s AI minister, emphasized the potential for governments to adopt AI, like Meta’s open-source model, to bolster their critical missions.
When questioned about the significance of Meta offering free technology, Clegg stated, “It will indirectly benefit us in the long run by fostering an ecosystem of Llama-based innovation, making it more likely for us to integrate innovation back into our products.” He also brushed off concerns regarding AI risks in public services.
Discussing potential regulation, Mr. Clark assured that Labor would address the substantial risks AI poses while supporting innovation and ensuring workers are not overwhelmed by regulations.
Peter Kyle, the secretary of state for science and technology, acknowledged that the UK government was being outspent by tech giants in innovation, highlighting the need for a national strategy in collaborating with such companies.
The push to promote Meta’s open-source AI platform in the public sector comes as concerns mount over the influence of tech giants, particularly following the involvement of Elon Musk’s X platform in the US presidential election and social media’s role in inciting the August riots in the UK.
In response to inquiries about Meta’s management of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, Clegg highlighted the contrast between Meta and X in how they handle content.
“We approach things very differently,” he remarked. “During the UK riots, individuals like Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate, who caused significant issues, were long banned from our platforms. This contrasts with platforms like Telegram and X.”
Excitement in the world of mathematics has been sparked by a significant discovery. The previous record for the largest prime number has been surpassed.
A prime number is only divisible by 1 and itself. For example, 23 is a prime number. Dividing by 1 results in 23, dividing by 23 gives 1, but dividing by any other number does not give an integer.
The new prime number is 2136,279,841-1 (known as M136279841). This prime number has a length of 41,024,320 digits, which is 16 million digits more than the previous record holder. It would take 237 days to fully read M136279841 if you read two digits per second.
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Additionally, this new prime number is a Mersenne prime, which is a special type of prime number of the form 2P-1. M136279841 is the 52nd Mersenne prime number discovered so far.
The discovery of M136279841 was the most challenging Mersenne Prime to date. It was found using free software from the Great Internet Mersenne Prime Search (GIMPS) by 2-year-old Luke Durant, a 36-year-old volunteer, using a graphics processing unit (GPU) supercomputer.
This achievement earned Durant a $3,000 prize, which he will donate to the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science.
While the discovery of prime numbers may seem like a recreational pursuit, Mersenne primes, in particular, are of significant interest to mathematicians like Sophie MacLean, a PhD student in analytical number theory at King’s College London. MacLean is fascinated by the rarity and complexity of Mersenne primes and is eager to explore more about them.
About our experts
Sophie MacLean is a PhD student in analytical number theory and additive combinatorics at King’s College London. She has lectured at the Royal Institution and Cheltenham Science Festival and published videos on the Numberphile YouTube channel.
The Olympic finish line has evolved from just showcasing winning athletes with their medals to now involving every Olympian in the event by sharing videos of themselves unboxing sponsored gear.
These unboxing videos, a social media trend, are now being posted on TikTok by athletes gearing up for their events in Paris this summer.
Millions of viewers are eagerly tuning in to catch a glimpse of the gear set to be worn in the upcoming games.
Alika Schmidt, a 400m specialist from Germany, models an Adidas skirt and quarter-zip sweatshirt, while Australian hurdler Tayleigh Willis dons a yellow and green Asics uniform, showcasing their sponsored gear in TikTok videos.
The buzz around the Paris 2024 uniforms is palpable, with some calling it “the biggest Olympics in fashion history.” The LVMH-sponsored tournament has already sparked interest, with Mongolia’s intricately embroidered kit designed by Ulaanbaatar-based brand Michel & Amazonka gaining traction as a fan favorite.
Videos documenting athletes’ journeys from around the world to the Olympic Village are also gaining momentum on social media platforms. US tennis player Coco Gauff shares a peek into her in-flight meal before her nap, giving followers a taste of the behind-the-scenes action.
Exploring the Olympic Village, Danish handball team members showcase their decorated rooms with personal touches like photos and flags. The glimpse into the athletes’ living spaces, including Paris 2024’s unique cardboard beds, adds a layer of authenticity to the Olympic experience.
The human side of the Olympics is on full display, as athletes like Australian water polo player Tilly Kearns share touching cultural encounters and interactions from the Olympic Village, evoking emotional responses from viewers.
US rugby player Ilona Maher, known for her TikTok presence during the Tokyo Olympics, continues to entertain and engage her audience with content leading up to Paris 2024, showcasing the fun and creative side of the Games.
The Olympics have become a significant platform for athletes and brands alike to connect with diverse audiences through social media, opening up new opportunities for partnerships and content monetization.
As the world unites to celebrate the sporting spirit at the Olympics, the event remains a beacon of unity and a powerful platform for athletes to share their stories and engage with fans worldwide.
Billy Eilish is Running away from him. Doja Cat Stops her. Her security detail made the sidewalk serenade of “Paint the Town Red” possible. Charli XCX Let’s him sing a few bars of “I Got It,” then said, “I have to try,” and turned on her heel and strolled back to the car.
Harry Daniels stakes out celebrities like Dua Lipa, Katy Perry, Ellie Goulding, and Joe Biden and serenades them while filming their reactions on TikTok. Most of these exchanges are spontaneous, as if the celebrities are genuinely surprised to have a 20-year-old man sing a song to them (usually horrifyingly, often about themselves). When Daniels found Jacob Elordi, who was at the restaurant, said the Saltburn star stayed next to a bodyguard-like man across the room and watched, amused, as Daniels headed off to the dance floor singing “Murderer.” I was a little wary.
Harry Daniels sings Lana Del Rey’s national anthem to Joe Biden. Photo: TikTok user @harry.daniels
Daniels’ videos alternate between old-fashioned trolling (Daniels once gratefully sang to Lea Michele, “All I Can Do for the Illiterate Community”) and an expression of true love for the artist. In an age when celebrities tightly control their images, his improvisations manage to reveal whether there’s a sense of humor, a lick of personality, or something going on beneath the surface. To quote a popular genre of comments Daniels receives on TikTok: “How do I find these people?!?!?”
Daniels has long cultivated an obsession with pop princesses online. “I think there’s a big element of escapism in stan culture,” he told me last week when I met him and his sister Madeline Daniels at a cafe on New York’s Lower East Side. “I found solace in other people’s careers and jobs, because I often felt insecure about my own life.”
Daniels grew up on Long Island, the son of an accountant and a homemaker. “Harry first attended Stan University when he was about 11 years old, where he completed his PhD,” said Madeleine, who also serves as his cameraman and unofficial manager. He loves Demi Lovato, Billie Eilish, Fifth Harmony, and Haim, and learned how to follow his favorites in real life by interacting with their fans on social media.
Two years ago, Daniels used his superior education to compete for face time with superstars. “I went to everyone’s shows and meet-and-greets and engaged with them in a way that made me feel connected to them,” he said. However, he felt the interaction was too formulaic. “How many times do I say ‘I love you so much’ to someone?” Wanting to leave a lasting impression, he decided to entertain himself by being a damn, a troll.”
Daniels and Paris Hilton were photographed shortly after the hotel heiress sang her 2006 hit “Stars are Blind.” Photo: Harry Daniels
Daniels’ first recorded TikTok serenade was at Sabrina Carpenter’s album signing in 2022. In the video, Sabrina Carpenter sang her diss track “Skin” while sitting behind a table. He suppressed an obviously nervous laugh. As soon as Daniels finished speaking, Carpenter issued a very diplomatic “thank you.” At that moment, a fool was born.
Daniels quickly became “smarter” than he appeared in person. He was waiting outside the Broadway stage door. He serenaded Sarah Paulson. Sometimes he got lucky. One night while he was eating at a diner, he ran into Ethan Cutkosky, who played Carl in the American version of Shameless.
“I think people think I’m hiding in the bushes, but I actually just show up where I know they’ll be,” he said. (It helps that he lives just outside New York City.)
Eventually, Daniels reached such a level of virality that some artist teams started reaching out. The music industry’s heavy reliance on TikTok as a promotional tool means that labels are likely to back artists who can generate buzz on the app. A cleverly planned “surprise” with Daniels, who has over 1 million followers, is a boon for artists looking to go viral or curate a relatable online persona.
Ripa’s team invited Daniels to surprise their star during a press tour. Similarly, Daniels used backstage access to go to Coachella earlier this month and sing Taylor Swift’s “Antihero” to Jack Antonoff and Paris Hilton’s “Stars Are Blind” to the heiress herself. Daniels says many of his videos are “just for fun,” meaning he doesn’t get paid. Money comes in when sponsors pay him to take pictures with artists at events. (Daniels declined to reveal his maximum performance fee.)
Daniels said that while the artist’s team may know what’s going on, the artist “legitimately doesn’t know anything,” which makes it difficult for the created situation to remain authentic. He claims it’s helping. “But lately, people have started trying to teach me how to create their own content.” He says he’s been asked by artists to promote new music or promote the names of products. “I wanted my videos to be less commercial and more culturally relevant, so I had to put my foot down,” he said.
Although Daniels prefers to stay in the pop culture realm, he recently filmed a video with Biden after receiving an invitation to a star-studded Radio City Music Hall fundraiser in March. Daniels was able to get close to the barricade where Biden walked around shaking hands with attendees. So he learned to sing Lana Del Rey’s national anthem dedicated to the 81-year-old politician. “He was very present, but I think he was literally like, ‘What the heck?'” Daniels said.
Harry Daniels surprises Greta Gerwig in New York. Photo: TikTok user @harry.daniels
Daniels also intended to sing for Kamala Harris if given the chance. What song? Of course, the wheels of the bus are “The Vice President’s Obvious Love” laugh out loud about buses, laugh out loud about buses. But don’t expect a Trump video. “I don’t think I’ll ever get this close to him,” Daniels said.
Not everyone appreciates Harry Daniels’ treatment. At a Biden fundraiser afterparty, Ms. Daniels unsuccessfully tried to sing to the incomparable Anna Wintour, the editor-in-chief of Vogue: I may be a troll, but I’m not stupid,” Daniels said. “So I introduced myself and said I was a fan of hers, and she was like, ‘Thank you, that’s so sweet.’ I started singing and she just walked away.”
Daniels also came under heavy attack after the match. Ask America Ferrera if she wanted a “gay son or creepy daughter” at the People’s Choice Awards. His critics accused him of being “uninteresting” and “not a real journalist.” He dismissed that, telling Rolling Stone, “My job is to create content that generates clicks and views.”
Daniels’ post has an ulterior motive. According to Rolling Stone, he’s also a singer himself, and he’s not bad at it. The magazine said his vocals had “an inherent melancholy similar to that of Troye Sivan.” “The only reason I really started doing all of this is because I wanted to pursue music. Basically, everyone I’ve ever talked to in this industry has told me that you need to get a following on social media. I said it consistently,” Daniels said. “So if people want a follow, I’ll give them a follow.”
Daniels doesn’t seem annoyed by the give-and-take. He respects the hustle and bustle. Still, there’s something dark about how his outsider side inevitably becomes part of the star machine. The more celebrities are tipped off about a potential interaction with Harry Daniels, the more the video feels like an SNL short, less gonzo fun and more fuel for PR campaigns and album release calendars.
Harry Daniels, his sister Madeleine, and Charlie D’Amelio. Photo: Harry Daniels
Regardless, Daniels says, “The music comes first.” He describes his work as hyperpop, a bubblegum-meets-chaos genre typified by Charli XCX and Kim Petras. “It’s larger than life and reminds me of what music is supposed to be. Music is supposed to soundtrack something bigger than yourself and make you feel things you can’t put into words,” he said.
Although he hasn’t released any tracks yet, he said 2024 will be the last year of his current idiocy. He’s not done yet. He knows that if he wants to stay relevant, he’ll have to create content forever, and that’s fine with him. He just sees it as an opportunity to “strike while the iron is hot.” He is currently in talks to expand the Homespun team to include not only his sister but also the pros.
As Daniels left the cafe, a young woman who appeared to be a fan standing near the exit quietly said, “I love you.” Daniels breathlessly responded with a sweet, “I love you too.” I’m sure it’s something he inherited from the celebrities he’s sung to.
Rockbit, a notorious cybercrime organization that holds victims’ data for ransom, has been thwarted in an extraordinary international law enforcement operation by the UK’s National Crime Agency, the FBI, Europol and the International Federation of Police Agencies. This was revealed in a post from the organization. Blackmail website.
“This site is currently under the control of the UK National Crime Agency, working closely with the FBI and the international law enforcement force Operation Chronos,” the post said on Monday.
An NCA spokesperson confirmed the NCA had disrupted the gang and said the operation was “ongoing and evolving”. A Rockbit representative did not respond to a request for comment from Reuters, but posted a message on an encrypted messaging app saying the company has backup servers that are immune to law enforcement actions.
The U.S. Department of Justice and FBI did not respond to requests for comment.
The post also names other international police organizations in France, Japan, Switzerland, Canada, Australia, Sweden, the Netherlands, Finland and Germany.
LockBit and its affiliates have hacked some of the world’s largest organizations in recent months. The gang makes money by stealing sensitive data and threatening to leak it unless victims pay exorbitant ransoms. Its affiliates are like-minded criminal groups recruited to carry out attacks using LockBit’s digital extortion tools.
Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts data. LockBit forces targets to pay a ransom to decrypt or unlock their data using a digital key.
LockBit was discovered in 2020 after its malicious software was discovered on a Russian-language cybercrime forum, and some security analysts believe the gang is based in Russia.
However, the gang does not profess support for any government, and no government has officially attributed it to any particular country. On its now-defunct dark web site, the group said it was “based in the Netherlands, completely apolitical and only interested in money.”
“They’re the Walmart of ransomware groups, and they run it like a business. That’s what makes them different,” said John DiMaggio, chief security strategist at US-based cybersecurity firm Analyst1. talk. “They are probably the largest ransomware group today.”
LockBit has attacked more than 1,700 organizations across nearly every industry, and U.S. officials say the group is the world’s largest ransomware threat. Last November, Rockbit released internal data from Boeing, one of the world’s largest defense and space contractors.
Delete the notice issued to Rockbit by the global intelligence group. Photo: Reuters
In early 2023, Royal Mail faced severe disruption following an attack by the group.
According to cybersecurity research website vx-underground, Rockbit said in a Russian-language statement shared on the encrypted messaging app Tox that the FBI attacked a server running in the programming language PHP. .
The statement, which could not be independently verified by Reuters, added that there is a backup server that does not include PHP and “has not been touched.”
In X, a screenshot shared by vx-underground showing the control panel used by LockBit affiliates to launch attacks was replaced with a message from law enforcement. “We have the source code, details of the victims you attacked, amounts extorted, stolen data, chats, etc.”
“I may contact you soon. Have a nice day.”
Prior to its removal, LockBit’s website displayed an ever-growing gallery of victim organizations updated almost daily. Next to their names was a digital clock indicating the number of days left until the ransom payment deadline given to each organization.
On Monday, LockBit’s site displayed a similar countdown, but the law enforcement agency that hacked the hackers said: “Please return here on Tuesday, February 20th at 11:30 GMT for more information.” A message was displayed.
Don Smith, vice president of Secureworks, a division of Dell Technologies, said LockBit is the most prolific and dominant ransomware operator in the competitive underground market.
“To put today’s takedown in context, LockBit had a 25% share of the ransomware market based on leak site data,” Smith said. “Their closest competitor was BlackCat at about 8.5%, but then it really started to fragment.
“LockBit is dwarfing all other groups, and today’s action is critical.”
Lyft performed well in the fourth quarter, exceeding profit expectations due to increased rides to stadiums and airports and significant cost savings.
However, the company’s stock price initially rose over 60% in after-hours trading, but most of those gains were erased after Lyft’s chief financial officer corrected a major error in its earnings report. The company had initially predicted growth of 500 basis points (5%) in 2024, but later announced that the actual growth rate was lower at 50 basis points (0.5%). In 2023, the stock price had risen by about 36%.
Lyft CEO David Risher acknowledged the mistake, saying in an interview the following day: bloomberg“Bad. This was a terrible error, but there was one zero.”
Lyft reported that stadium attendance increased over 35% from 2022, driven primarily by popular tours and sporting events. The company also highlighted improvements to airport transportation as contributing to its growth.
Under new leadership, Lyft implemented an aggressive restructuring plan last year, including staff cuts and the removal of management to pursue profitability. The company laid off 1,200 employees in April and reduced overall costs by 12%.
“We’re going to put more money into the bottom line because we can scale even further and keep costs flat,” Risher said.
Lyft also announced a new policy to pay drivers the difference if their income, after outside fees, is less than 70% of what a passenger pays. In addition, Lyft and Uber agreed to pay $328 million to a New York rideshare driver accused of withholding pay and benefits.
There are growing concerns about safety, job security, and the general fear of artificial intelligence with regard to self-driving cars. Lyft is addressing this by partnering with Motional to provide more than 100,000 self-driving rides across the United States.
Revenue for the quarter ended Dec. 31 was $1.22 billion, in line with analyst expectations. The company expects earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization to be between $50 million and $55 million for the quarter, exceeding expectations of $46.3 million. Lyft’s fourth-quarter adjusted core profit was $66.6 million, also beating expectations of $56.2 million.
Snapchat’s owner narrowly missed Wall Street’s hopes as it continues to grapple with slowing digital advertising. The social media company’s stock price fell by nearly a third.
Snap said it was “encouraged by our progress,” but cited factors such as the Middle East conflict that had hurt its business.
Snap’s revenue rose 5% to $1.36 billion in the three months ended Dec. 31, missing analysts’ expectations for $1.38 billion. Net loss narrowed from $288 million to $248 million.
Investors remained concerned about the company’s growth. The company expects revenue for the current quarter to be between $1.1 billion and $1.14 billion. Analysts had expected about $1.1 billion.
Snap shares fell 30% to $12.21 in after-hours trading in New York.
Alphabet, owner of Google and YouTube, the world’s two biggest advertisers, and Meta Platforms, owner of Facebook and Instagram, are in a better position. Smaller companies in the market continue to struggle.
Santa Monica, Calif.-based Snap expects to end 2023 with about 414 million daily active users, a number that will rise to 420 million in the first quarter.
The group told investors on Tuesday that it was “shifting our focus to user growth and deepening our engagement in our most profitable regions, including North America and Europe.”
Evan Spiegel, CEO of Snap, said: “2023 was a pivotal year for Snap. We transformed our advertising business and continued to grow our global community, reaching 414 million daily active users.” We have 7 million subscribers who pay for our products.
“Snapchat strengthens our relationships with friends, family and the world, and this unique value proposition has provided a strong foundation on which to build our business for long-term growth.”
The company releases its financial results a day after announcing it would lay off about 10% of its global workforce, or about 530 people, as part of an organizational restructuring to “reduce hierarchy and increase in-person collaboration.” did. Last week, the company recalled its Pixy selfie drone due to the risk of fire due to battery overheating.
ERon Musk suffered one of the largest legal losses in U.S. history this week when Tesla’s CEO was stripped of $56 billion in compensation in a lawsuit brought by an unlikely opponent: a former heavy metal drummer. Covered.
Richard Tornetta sued Musk in 2018, when Tornetta, a Pennsylvania resident, owned just nine Tesla shares. The case ultimately went to trial in late 2022, and on Tuesday, a judge sided with Tornetta, invalidating his massive pay deal as unfair to him and all of his Tesla shareholders.
Mr. Tornetta could not be reached for comment, and his lawyer declined to comment.
Before Mr. Tornetta’s lawsuit, Mr. Musk had won a series of lawsuits accusing him of defamation, breach of duty to shareholders and violations of securities laws.
Judging by his online presence, Mr. Tornetta appears to be more interested in creating audio equipment for car customization enthusiasts than pursuing corporate excesses and fraud.
He posts light-hearted videos about his gadgets and mishaps, such as explaining how he burned his eyebrows.
Tornetta also appears in a video playing drums at the former legendary New York club CBGB with his now-defunct metal band Dawn of Collection, describing the sound as “steel-toed.” “It sounded like a quick kick in the face with a work boot.”
On social media, fans of Tesla and Musk seem to feel the incident is a travesty of justice, speculating about Tornetta’s intentions and political affiliations and wondering how investors with such a minuscule stake could He questioned whether he could wield such power.
Delaware’s corporate case law is replete with cases naming individual investors with small stakes that ultimately shaped American corporate law.
Eric Talley, who teaches corporate law at Columbia Law School, said many law firms representing shareholders have a steady stream of investors who can work with them to litigate cases. They may be pension funds with a wide range of stocks, but they are also often individuals like Tornetta.
Talley said it’s common for plaintiffs to sign the paperwork to file a lawsuit and then walk away. Investors won’t pay law firms to take on cases on a contingency basis, as lawyers did in the Musk case.
Mr. Tornetta, like other Tesla shareholders, stands to benefit from winning the lawsuit, saving the company billions of dollars that subordinate boards paid to Mr. Musk.
Business groups have long criticized lawsuits brought by individuals as a sign of potential abuse. A decade ago, Delaware was beset by lawsuits contesting merger deals and led by private investors who owned a minority stake. Cases were often quickly resolved with nonsensical settlements, which always included payments to the lawyers who brought the cases. Delaware judges and lawmakers eventually curbed the practice.
Experts said people like Tornetta are essential to policing the boardroom. Lawmakers and judges have long wanted big investment firms to take the lead in these corporate cases because of their ability to monitor lawyers’ tactics. But experts said fund managers did not want to jeopardize their relationships on Wall Street.
Therefore, it was up to Tornetta to face Mask.
“His name is now etched in the history of corporate law,” Talley said. “My students will be reading ‘Tornetta vs. the Mask’ for the next 10 years.”
byRamon J. Osorio, NASA Marshall Space Flight CenterDecember 26, 2023
Engineers at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, successfully completed a 251-second high-temperature combustion test of a full-scale rotary explosion rocket engine combustor in fall 2023, achieving more than 5,800 pounds of thrust. Credit: NASA
NASAMarshall Space Flight Center tested a 3D-printed Rotating Explosive Rocket Engine (RDRE) for more than four minutes and was able to generate significant thrust. This test is essential for deep space missions and represents a step forward in NASA’s development of an efficient propulsion system for the Moon. Mars vision.
NASA has achieved a new benchmark in the development of an innovative propulsion system called the Rotating Explosive Rocket Engine (RDRE). Engineers at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, tested his new 3D-printed RDRE for 251 seconds (or over four minutes) and were able to generate more than 5,800 pounds of thrust.
This type of sustained burn emulates the typical requirements for a lander touchdown or deep space burn that could set a spacecraft on a course from the Moon to Mars, the center said. said Thomas Teasley, lead Marshall combustion equipment engineer.
RDRE’s first high-temperature fire test was conducted in Marshall in the summer of 2022 in partnership with In Space LLC and Purdue University (Lafayette, Indiana). The test generated more than 4,000 pounds of thrust for nearly a minute. The main objective of the latest tests was to extend the combustor to different thrust classes, support all types of engine systems, and maximize the diversity of missions it can deliver, from landers to upper stages to supersonics. Teasley said the key is to better understand how to increase the Reverse propulsion is a deceleration technique that has the potential to land larger payloads, and even humans, on the surface of Mars.
Test stand video taken at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, shows the ignition of a full-size rotary-explosion rocket engine combustor that ignited for a record 251 seconds and achieved more than 5,800 pounds of thrust. It is shown.
“RDRE significantly increases design efficiency,” he said. “This shows we are getting closer to developing lightweight propulsion systems that will allow us to send more mass and payloads into deep space, a critical component for NASA. From the moon to Mars vision. “
Engineers at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland; Venus Aerospace, Houston, Texas, is working with NASA Marshall to identify ways to scale the technology for higher performance.
RDRE is managed and funded by the Game Changing Development Program within NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate.
Google will soon This allows users to store their location data on their devices rather than on Google’s servers, allowing police and law enforcement to tap into Google’s vast bank of location data to identify potential criminals. We were able to effectively put an end to years of surveillance practices that allowed eavesdropping.
The use of so-called “geofencing warrants” has exploded in recent years, largely due to the proliferation of smartphones and the ability of data-hungry companies like Google to siphon and store vast amounts of users’ location information. This is due to the fact that it is now possible to obtain it by law. Request for enforcement.
Police can use geofence warrants (also known as reverse location warrants) to ask Google to hand over information about whether a user’s device was in a particular geographic area at a particular time.
This week’s Google announcements I didn’t mention geofencing warrants. Specifically, it only says that users will have “more control” over their data by storing location data on their devices. In effect, this move would result in police seeking a search warrant to access that specific device, rather than requesting the data from Google.
Although Google is not the only company targeted by geofencing warrants, it is the largest collector of sensitive location data and the first company to be intercepted.
The act of police eavesdropping on users’ location data to Google is revealed for the first time Google has long relied on user location data to power its advertising business, which generated about 80% of Google’s annual revenue, or about $220 billion, in 2022 alone.
However, in reality, this surveillance technique is believed to be much more widespread. Law enforcement agencies have since expanded location data requests to other companies. Microsoft and Yahoo (which owns TechCrunch) are known to have received geofencing warrants, but neither company has yet disclosed how many requests for user location data they receive.
The number of lawsuits related to geofencing requirements has increased rapidly in recent years.
Police in Minneapolis used geofencing warrants to identify individuals who participated in protests following the killing of George Floyd. The 2022 overturn of Roe v. Wade will allow law enforcement in states where access to abortion care is restricted or where it is illegal to seek an abortion to identify people seeking care. Concerns were raised about the potential use of geofence warrants. Lawmakers later called on Google to stop collecting location data, saying it could be used to identify people seeking abortions.
The companies have said little about the number of geofence warrants they receive, but last year Google, Microsoft and Yahoo supported a New York bill that would ban the use of geofence warrants statewide. This bill failed to become law.
Google has not disclosed how many geofencing warrants it has received in recent years. Google has released its latest (and only) disclosure about the number of geofence warrants it received in 2021, following pressure to release the numbers following growing criticism of its surveillance practices.
According to the data, Google received 982 geofence warrants in 2018, 8,396 geofence warrants in 2019, and 11,554 geofence warrants in 2020. This represents about a quarter of all legal claims received by Google. Although the disclosure is limited, it provides a first glimpse into the surging number of such requests, but Google is concerned about how often the search giant pushes back against legal requests for its users’ location data. Or, if there was, they didn’t mention it.
News that Google will soon move your location data to your devices drew cautious praise.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation, which challenged the constitutionality of geofencing warrants in court, said: in a blog post “At least for now, we intend to take this as a victory.” But EFF pointed out that there are other ways for Google to hand over users’ sensitive personal data. Law enforcement agencies use a similar legal request, called a “reverse keyword” warrant, to identify Google accounts that searched for specific keywords in time, such as before a crime was committed. Google has not said whether it plans to close a loophole that allows police and law enforcement agencies to issue so-called “reverse keyword” warrants for users’ search queries.
Geofencing warrants won’t disappear overnight. Google still maintains a vast bank of historical location data, which law enforcement can access at any time until Google determines it no longer needs to be retained. And while tech companies store large amounts of user location data, they may also be subject to similar legal claims.
But the hope is that by closing the door on geofencing warrants, Google could significantly reduce this surveillance loophole, at least going forward.
in Latest transparency report In 2022, Apple announced that it received 13 geofencing warrants requesting customer location data, but did not provide any data in return. Apple said it has “no data to provide in response to geofencing requests” because the data resides on the user’s device and cannot be accessed.
LONDON — On Tuesday, the first transatlantic flight fueled entirely by sustainable aviation fuel departed from London to New York, as the industry aims to demonstrate the viability of eco-friendly air travel.
Virgin Atlantic’s Boeing 787s use a blend of 88% waste fat from AirBP and 12% synthetic aromatic kerosene made from plant sugars.
According to Flightradar24 data, the test flight VIR100, which had no paying passengers, took off from London Heathrow Airport at 11:49 a.m. UK time (6:49 a.m. ET) and landed at New York JFK Airport, scheduled to arrive shortly before 2 p.m. Eastern time.
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is a general term for non-fossil-based fuels, including biofuels derived from plant and animal raw materials, municipal waste, and agricultural residues.
While emissions still occur, advocates argue that the overall “lifecycle emissions” from this fuel are significantly lower than those from regular petroleum-based fuels.
Other airlines Have you ever used SAF? It can be used on commercial flights, but usually on short-haul flights, mixed with up to 50% of conventional fuel, which was previously regulated. Tuesday’s Virgin Atlantic flight was approved by the UK Civil Aviation Authority earlier this month.
In 2021, a group of 60 companies in the aviation, transportation, and cargo industries pledged to reach 10% of SAF usage in global jet aviation fuel supply by 2030.
The advantage of SAF is that it can be used without modification of existing aircraft engines. Many airlines pledged to make investments to increase their fuel usage as they strive to reduce overall emissions during flight, including by using more fuel-efficient aircraft.
However, many challenges remain before widespread adoption, including supply shortages, high costs, and concerns about the sustainability of power generation.
There are relatively few factories producing SAF or companies shipping SAF around the world. Incentives for producers are hampered by low profits, and the Royal Society warned in a report earlier this year that only some biofuels are low carbon and feedstock availability is a challenge for scale-up.
Several groups discuss how increased production of biofuels risks exacerbating deforestation and food shortages. They argue that reducing the environmental impact of aviation, which contributes to around 2% of anthropogenic CO2 emissions, requires reducing the number of flights operated.
Virgin Atlantic CEO Shai Weiss stated that the flight demonstrated that SAF could be used as a “safe drop-in replacement for fossil-based jet fuel, helping to decarbonize long-haul aviation” and that it would prove to be the only viable solution. “SAF is simply in short supply, and it is clear that significant further investment will be required to reach large-scale production. This will only happen if the facilities are in place,” he added.
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