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The Vaporwave album “Conditions at Hickory” by Dreamweather, aka Kana, begins with static, as if you’re tuning in to a 1940s radio broadcast. The mood shifts and sounds become warnings and cautions of something sinister to come. By the time you get to tracks “Thunderheads” and “Squall,” you’re in the thick of it. This album, which soundtracks a frozen image of a severe weather warning for Hickory, North Carolina, is part of the vaporwave genre, which combines lo-fi electronic music with nostalgic video footage from the 1940s to the present day. The trend has evolved to include ambient sounds over Weather Channel broadcasts from the ’80s and ’90s, often featuring a VHS recording of a Weather Channel broadcast on a random cold ’90s night in the winter. Many comments below these clips speak in nostalgic terms about how the Weather Channel helped them as children. The Weather Channel was founded in Atlanta, Georgia, in May 1982 and coupled its weather broadcasts with smooth jazz from the start, which became a defining feature of the network.
Wi-Fi 7 is the latest generation of Wi-Fi technology that promises faster speeds, lower latency, and improved performance. It builds upon the advancements of Wi-Fi 6 and 6E, with wider channels and more adaptive capabilities to handle congestion and interference. Wi-Fi 7 supports up to four times faster speeds than previous standards and offers improved stability and efficiency. It is compatible with existing devices and supported by the latest smartphones, laptops, TVs, and other gadgets. The benefits of Wi-Fi 7 include higher-quality video streaming, better cloud gaming, and improved performance for AR and VR applications. However, it also tackles congestion and interference in densely packed areas or overlapping networks.
Johnnie Walker has launched a new limited-edition whisky bottle that is significantly lighter than its standard bottles. The teardrop-shaped bottle weighs only 180 grams, which is one-fifth the weight of the current Johnnie Walker Blue Label bottle. This innovation is designed to reduce emissions in transport and production. The new bottle is made from Turkish glassmakers Şişecam and is housed in a bamboo cage for added durability. Only 888 bottles of the limited-edition whisky will be released at $1,250 each, but Diageo plans to apply this newfound knowledge to other bottles.
Mark Cuban is a billionaire investor and owner of the Dallas Mavericks basketball team. He was confident that he wouldn’t be recognized in Boston Common, but as he walked through the park, people approached him to ask for an autograph or selfie. Despite this attention, Cuban remained humble and focused on his new obsession: investing in a pharmaceutical startup called Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs. The company sells generic drugs at a markup of 15% and charges a $5 service fee, but the goal is to subvert the middlemen in America’s healthcare system by directly connecting patients with pharmacies. Cuban sees this as an opportunity to disrupt a dysfunctional industry and improve access to affordable medication. He has also been vocal about his opinions on tech platforms and politics, including his criticism of Elon Musk and his support for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris.
Spotify is launching its new feature “daylist” globally. It’s a personalized playlist that changes throughout the day based on your listening habits. The feature was first introduced in English-speaking markets last year and has since been expanded to 65 more countries. Users can access the playlist through the Spotify app or online, and it includes tracks from various niche music and microgenres that you listen to at a particular time of day. The company also added support for 14 additional languages, including Arabic, Catalan, French (Canada), French (France), German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish (Spain), Spanish (Mexico), and Turkish.
If you’re looking for a fun word-search game, check out Strands from The New York Times! It’s similar to Wordle and Connections, but with a twist. Instead of using horizontal or vertical lines to connect letters, words can be made by linking them in any direction, including diagonally. Every letter in the grid will be part of an answer, and there’s always a theme connecting all the solutions. The game also features a special “spangram” that spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.
Manchester United is coming up against Liverpool in the Premier League, and if you want to watch this match for free from anywhere in the world, Fubo is your best bet. With a seven-day trial of Fubo, you can access all 380 matches of the 2024-25 Premier League season in Canada. And with ExpressVPN, you can bypass geo-restrictions and stream live sport from anywhere in the world.
About three years ago, Google’s security engineers stumbled upon a massive issue when they discovered that the company was inadvertently enabling the spread of malicious software known as Glupteba. This malware had already corrupted over 1 million Windows computers, turning them into cryptocurrency-mining machines and spyware. The hackers behind the operation were using hijacked Google accounts to purchase ads and misusing Google cloud tools to infect even more computers. In response, Google’s legal team recommended a new approach: suing the hackers for financial gain. This marked the beginning of a series of lawsuits against various hackers and scammers, with Google aiming to scare off would-be fraudsters and raise public awareness about scams. So far, Google has won almost all of its cases, collecting over $2 million in damages and forcing hundreds of companies or websites to shut down.
Satellites face an incredible challenge as they zoom around our planet at breakneck speeds of up to 17,000 miles per hour, enduring the harsh conditions of space while trying to precisely align their antennae back towards Earth. Before embarking on this perilous journey, satellites undergo rigorous testing to ensure every loose bolt is tightened and all electrical systems are functioning flawlessly. The newly opened National Satellite Test Facility in Oxfordshire, UK, offers a one-stop-shop for satellite manufacturers to conduct comprehensive tests under one roof.
If the idea of going on a date makes you anxious, and all you’d rather do is stay home and play video games, Date Like Goblins has got you covered. This new dating platform lets you go on dates that take place entirely inside your favorite video games, where you can play Fortnite or Final Fantasy with your date while getting to know each other through voice-chat. It’s a unique way to connect with someone who shares your interests and passions. With Date Like Goblins, you can ditch the traditional dating app experience and find someone who understands your love for gaming.
It seems like you’ve got a lot to say about the new movie “Deadpool & Wolverine”! I’ll summarize the main points for you:
As I reflect on Trump’s potential handling of a future public health crisis, I’m left wondering if he would’ve learned from his past mistakes. At 78, it’s unlikely he’d change his fundamental personality, and age alone can’t guarantee improved performance. In contrast, President Biden, despite being 83, still exudes energy and sharpness, as I witnessed during my time in the White House with him.
As the clock struck 1:00 am local time on Friday, a system administrator for a West Coast funeral and mortuary services company was suddenly jolted awake by his computer screen’s eerie glow. The phone was flooded with messages from colleagues about a network issue that threatened to disrupt funerals and burials. It soon became clear that the CrowdStrike outage was the culprit, causing chaos worldwide after distributing faulty software to its Falcon monitoring platform. The administrator worked tirelessly for nearly 20 hours, manually resetting dozens of computers at mortuaries to resolve the problem. With funeral scheduling and hospital communication hanging in the balance, every minute counted. “People are grieving,” he emphasized, as the team scrambled to get systems back online.
As I scrolled through the email from Michael Vance, the chief technology officer of Activision, my stomach began to churn with anxiety. It was spring 2023 and the video game publisher was touting the promise of artificial intelligence, claiming it would revolutionize their industry. But for many employees, including myself, this news was a harbinger of doom. We had already seen the devastating impact AI could have on our livelihoods, as jobs began to disappear like sandcastles in the wind. I felt like we were sacrificing our humanity for the sake of progress. And then, the layoffs started. Thousands of people lost their jobs in 2023 alone, and it only got worse this year. The gaming industry is in trouble, and AI is the culprit. It’s not just a matter of job automation, but also deskilling and attrition. As I look around at my colleagues, I see the fear and uncertainty etched on their faces. We’re all wondering what the future holds for us, as we struggle to keep up with the ever-changing landscape of AI.
The opening credits of House of the Dragon have undergone several changes throughout its first two seasons, reflecting the show’s complex web of characters and plot developments. Here’s a breakdown of each new addition:
Hey there! It’s time for Wordle again, and we’re here to help you figure out today’s answer with some daily hints and tips. If you just want the solution, you can jump to the bottom of this article, but if you’d rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues and strategies to assist you. Did you know that Wordle was originally created by an engineer as a gift for his partner, and it quickly became an international phenomenon? It’s now owned by the New York Times and has even inspired variations like Squabble and Heardle.
As the West continues to experience intense fire seasons, homeowners in high-risk areas are taking proactive steps to safeguard their properties from the devastating effects of wildfires. Research suggests that small improvements can make a significant difference in reducing the risk of damage or loss. A structure’s vulnerability is determined by its weakest point, which can be found in the roof, windows, siding, and vents. For instance, roofs with valleys can collect flammable materials like pine needles and leaves, making it crucial to use non-flammable materials like clay tiles or asphalt shingles. Regular maintenance, including cleaning gutters, is also essential to prevent embers from accumulating and igniting nearby. By taking these simple yet effective measures, homeowners can significantly increase the chances of their property being protected in the event of a wildfire.
The Labyrinth is a fascinating addition to Moog’s lineup of desktop semi-modular synths, offering an experimental approach that sets it apart from the company’s traditional instruments. Its eight-step, two-track generative sequencer allows for semi-random note selection, creating melodies that change as they fall in and out of sync. The “corrupt” knob introduces randomness, making the Labyrinth a happy-accident machine perfect for improvisation. Despite its chaotic sound, it can be used as a performance instrument, with the ability to force the sequencer to stick to a particular scale and sync it to other gear via MIDI or analog clock. The Labyrinth’s core sound is mellow and less sharp-edged than typical Moog instruments, thanks to its single sine and triangle oscillators, but can add roughness with wave folders and ring modulation circuits. Its 2-pole state variable filter blends from lowpass to bandpass, delivering warm lows and percussive thumps when cranked. While it may not be the best choice for those seeking a classic Moog sound, the Labyrinth is capable of delivering a wide range of sonic textures, from techno kick grooves to apocalyptic tom marches.
In the pursuit of safeguarding our personal and financial data, it’s crucial to maintain a sense of discretion when sharing information about ourselves. By concealing email addresses, phone numbers, and even credit and debit card details, we can create a technological barrier between ourselves and those with whom we interact. This approach not only protects us from potential data breaches but also enables transactions to proceed as usual.
The Biden administration’s efforts to protect America’s vital infrastructure from hackers may have been dealt a significant blow by the Supreme Court’s recent ruling in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo. The court’s elimination of Chevron deference, which allowed agencies to interpret laws without judicial oversight, could lead to a surge in lawsuits challenging existing regulations aimed at securing critical infrastructure and cloud platforms. This development may also imperil the administration’s marquee cyber regulation, which requires critical infrastructure organizations to report cyberattacks within 72 hours and ransomware payments within 24 hours. The proposed rule has faced criticism from businesses and trade groups, who argue that it goes beyond what lawmakers intended, citing the Loper Bright ruling as a precedent for their concerns. With the Senate Homeland Security Committee chair also expressing reservations about the regulation’s clarity, its legal viability is now in question.
A recent report has shed light on how TikTok’s algorithm may have inadvertently promoted Germany’s far-right extremist party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), to young voters ahead of last month’s EU elections. According to the study, in a quarter of cases, users searching for specific political parties or politicians were instead given suggestions linked to the AfD. This phenomenon was observed despite TikTok’s claims that it has taken steps to combat misinformation and hate speech on its platform. The researchers found that the app’s algorithmic features, such as “Others Searched For” suggestions, created a poorly moderated space where far-right groups like the AfD could thrive. While TikTok denies any active collaboration with the AfD, the report suggests that the platform’s structure gives bad actors an opportunity to flourish.
The article provides a detailed comparison between the first four episodes of the HBO series “House of the Dragon” and the book “Fire & Blood” by George R.R. Martin, which serves as the basis for the show’s story. The author highlights several key differences between the two, including changes to character motivations, plot developments, and historical events.
The highly anticipated Euro 2024 final between Spain and England is just around the corner, and you can watch every thrilling moment from anywhere in the world without spending a dime. The Spanish team has dominated the tournament so far, but England’s recent resurgence could make this match a real nail-biter. If you’re outside of the UK, don’t worry - with ExpressVPN, you can bypass geo-restrictions and access BBC iPlayer and ITVX for free. Simply subscribe to ExpressVPN, download their app, connect to a UK server, and stream the game on July 14 at 3 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. BST from the Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany. With ExpressVPN’s fast connection speeds and strict no-logging policy, you can enjoy the match without worrying about your data security.
The Rapidan Dam’s partial failure in Minnesota has brought attention to the country’s aging infrastructure, particularly its dams. The dam, built over a century ago, was just one of hundreds across the Upper Midwest in similar or worse condition, according to federal data. Climate change is exacerbating the issue, with extreme weather events becoming more common and severe. Many of America’s nearly 92,000 dams are over 60 years old, leading to complications like sediment buildup, which was a factor in the Rapidan Dam’s failure. The National Inventory of Dams classifies the Rapidan as having a “significant” hazard potential while being in “poor” condition, and similar concerns exist for nearly 4,100 dams nationwide. As dam owners face decisions on repair, replacement, or removal, some argue that the latter option can be the most cost-effective in the long run.
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Necrosoft Games was on the brink of financial disaster in March, with its director, Brandon Sheffield, predicting that the company would be broke before its upcoming RPG, Demonschool, shipped in September. The funding climate for video games was dire, especially for small projects, and layoffs were a weekly occurrence across the industry. However, Sheffield managed to secure a contract for Necrosoft to work on another game, allowing the studio to survive, albeit precariously. The company’s troubles are not unique, as many smaller developers face similar struggles due to mismanagement and the closure of funding avenues. With all hopes resting on Demonschool’s success, Necrosoft remains in a precarious position, and independent developers are vanishing left and right. As the industry shrinks, some hold onto the hope that things will improve by 2025, while others are less optimistic, warning that unless changes are made, the highs and lows of the games industry may only get worse.
The Motorola Razr+ boasts impressive camera capabilities thanks to its Photo Enhancement Engine, which utilizes AI to produce high-quality images. While the results are generally satisfying, processing times can be lengthy, so users must adjust their expectations. The phone’s 4,000-mAh battery provides a full day of average use, but heavy users may need to recharge before the end of the day. With its sleek design and solid performance, this foldable device is a great option for those seeking a unique smartphone experience. However, it’s worth noting that the ultrawide camera has been replaced with a 2X telephoto lens, which can be a drawback for some users. Overall, the Razr+ is a fun and satisfying phone to use, but its high price tag may make it more appealing during sales or discounts.
In the late 1990s, the United States reached a peak of potato consumption, with Americans devouring an astonishing 64 pounds per year. The surplus was so great that the government had to pay farmers to take them off their hands. This frenzy even extended to official White House dinners, where the Clintons would serve up potatoes in various forms to visiting dignitaries. However, as Chris Voigt’s career as a potato industry executive took off, the American appetite for spuds began to wane. Today, the average American eats 30% fewer potatoes than during their heyday, with consumption of fresh potatoes plummeting even further. The rise of frozen potatoes, particularly french fries, has become the norm. This shift has sparked a battle over the future of food in America, with some advocating for a reclassification of potatoes as a vegetable. Despite this, the humble spud remains a nutrient-dense powerhouse, rich in vitamins and minerals.
Ransomware attacks on healthcare targets have been on the rise, with every month in 2024 seeing more attacks than the same month in any previous year. The April spike is particularly notable, as it’s likely a follow-on effect of Change Healthcare’s attack, which crippled its ability to process insurance payments and paid out a hefty ransom to AlphV. This has created an opportunity for other ransomware groups to target healthcare providers, who are already vulnerable due to the high stakes involved in their operations. The situation is further complicated by the fact that AlphV appears to have jilted its hacker partners, leaving them without their cut of the profits. As a result, affiliates have begun offering data to other groups, creating a lucrative potential for hacking healthcare victims. With healthcare providers already willing to pay ransoms to control the damage to their life-saving systems, it’s unlikely that these attacks will stop anytime soon.
The Ocean Sciences Building at the University of Washington in Seattle is a modern structure with large glass windows reflecting the bay across the street. On July 7, 2016, it was being slowly locked down as students and faculty filed out under overcast skies. The building’s high-pressure testing facility was preparing to unleash one of the most destructive forces in the natural world: the crushing weight of about 2½ miles of ocean water. A black, pill-shaped capsule hung from a hoist on the ceiling, a scale model of a submersible called Cyclops 2, developed by OceanGate. The company’s CEO, Stockton Rush, had designed the sub to take paying customers down to the Titanic, but during testing, the model imploded thousands of meters short of the safety margin. The sudden roar and violent shuddering sent shockwaves through the building, leaving everyone shaken.
As Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s running mate Nicole Shanahan announced her candidacy this spring, many were left scratching their heads. Why would a prominent tech entrepreneur and philanthropist align herself with an anti-vaccine activist? The answer lies in Shanahan’s personal experience as the mother of a child diagnosed with autism. Her research led her to question the safety of vaccines, which she believes can cause chronic diseases in children. In recent months, Shanahan has publicly expressed concerns about vaccine safety and called for the Moderna mRNA vaccine to be recalled. With a reported billion-dollar fortune at her disposal, Shanahan has donated millions to Kennedy’s campaign and is also funding an autism clinical trial that some experts have criticized as poorly designed. Meanwhile, her ex-husband Sergey Brin’s family foundation is in talks to fund serious research on autism and neurodevelopmental disorders, adding a layer of personal drama to the situation.
Last week, I stumbled upon an unsettling example of how AI Overviews from Google can use journalistic content in an unexpected way. While experimenting with the feature, I asked it questions about topics I’ve recently covered and was surprised to see my article linked at the bottom of the answer box. But what really caught my attention was how much the first paragraph of the AI Overview pulled directly from my writing. The similarity is striking, almost like a student copying an answer from their homework without even bothering to change the wording.
As generative AI tools like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot continue to evolve at a rapid pace, concerns are mounting about the potential risks they pose to workplace security and employee privacy. The ability of these tools to screenshot sensitive data has raised red flags among regulators and experts alike. For instance, Microsoft’s Recall feature has been deemed a “privacy nightmare” by some, while OpenAI’s ChatGPT has demonstrated screenshotting abilities that could result in the capture of sensitive information. Meanwhile, the US House of Representatives has banned the use of Copilot among staff members due to concerns about data leakage and exposure. As AI systems become increasingly sophisticated, there is a growing risk of hackers targeting these tools to gain access to sensitive data or spread malware. Furthermore, proprietary AI offerings like Copilot could potentially be used to monitor employees’ activities, raising concerns about privacy infringement.
The Starliner spacecraft’s crewed launch was halted just four minutes before liftoff due to a computer glitch that failed to initiate the countdown sequence. This marks yet another setback for the craft, which is designed to support the next generation of spaceflight. NASA has announced plans to reschedule the launch attempt for June 5, but we’ll believe it when we see it. Meanwhile, ASUS has released its second-generation gaming handheld, the ROG Ally X, which boasts improved performance and design. The device features an unchanged display and chip from its predecessor, but still manages to impress with its sleek design and powerful specs. In other news, Meta is attempting to revamp Facebook to appeal to young adults, shifting its focus towards AI-powered products and features. However, the company’s plans for the metaverse remain unclear. Finally, Dyson has released its 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum, which boasts superior suction power and a 360-degree vision system. While it performs well in real-life tests, its steep price tag of $1,200 may deter some potential buyers.
Get ready to witness the thrilling match between West Indies and Papua New Guinea at the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the West Indies themselves! This highly anticipated game is set to take place on June 2 at 10:30 a.m. ET at Providence Stadium in Guyana. If you’re outside of India or want to watch for free from anywhere in the world, ExpressVPN has got you covered. With its powerful tools and geo-restricted Disney+ Hotstar app, you can access free live streams of the T20 Cricket World Cup, including this must-watch match between West Indies and Papua New Guinea. Simply subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN like ExpressVPN, download the app, connect to an Indian server, and download the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app to start watching for free!
Environmental scientist Jade S. Sasser has spent over two decades studying reproductive choices in the context of climate change, with her latest book, Climate Anxiety and the Kid Question, delving into the complex issues surrounding family planning in the face of global warming. Sasser’s research reveals that women of color are most likely to have fewer children than they desire due to climate anxiety, a trend not seen among other demographic groups. This finding underscores the prevalence of climate anxiety among communities of color, with Hispanic Americans five times more likely and Black Americans twice as likely to experience such feelings compared to their white counterparts. Sasser hopes her work will help raise awareness about climate anxiety in these communities, which are often disproportionately affected by climate change impacts.
When Google’s new AI Overview feature started generating bizarre and misleading answers to search queries, the company downplayed the issue, but later admitted that the errors highlighted areas in need of improvement. The head of search, Liz Reid, explained what happened and the steps taken to address the issues. She cited examples of incorrect results, including one suggesting eating rocks can be good for you and another recommending using nontoxic glue to thicken pizza sauce. These mistakes were attributed to misinterpretation of satirical content and a sense of humor failure. Reid also warned against judging the feature based on viral screenshots and emphasized that extensive testing was done before its launch, with data showing people value AI Overviews. The company claims some widely distributed screenshots were fake and made technical improvements to address issues, including better detection of nonsensical queries and strengthening guardrails for important topics like health.
As Microsoft wraps up its acquisition of Activision Blizzard, it’s been revealed that Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will be available on Xbox Game Pass on its release day later this year. This strategic move is expected to draw players to the subscription service, which offers a cheaper alternative to buying individual games. The addition of Black Ops 6 joins Diablo IV as the second Activision Blizzard title to hit Game Pass, with more likely to follow. For those who do subscribe, they’ll gain access not only to new releases like Black Ops 6 but also to the growing library of games on the service, including recent additions like Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2.
The wait is finally over for Sonos’ inaugural wireless headphones, the Ace, which have landed in the capable hands of our audio expert. This sleek new design combines all of Sonos’ audio expertise with some innovative features, including TrueCinema, a virtual surround sound technology that maps your location for an immersive experience. If you’re already a Sonos soundbar owner, you’ll be able to seamlessly connect the Ace for late-night movie sessions. Additionally, the headphones can upscale even mediocre audio to make it sound more impressive. Our expert is thoroughly impressed with the results and thinks you might be too once you’ve read their review. With pre-orders now available, you won’t want to miss out on this opportunity to get your hands on these cutting-edge cans.
As science fiction becomes a reality, laser warfare is finally taking off with the US military deploying defense systems in the Middle East to counter drone threats from adversaries like Yemen’s Houthi rebels. Meanwhile, concerns over Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act continue to simmer as civil liberties organizations demand more transparency on NSA wiretaps. In other security news, a gun-detection system was deployed in New York City subways despite high false-positive rates, and Google introduced an AI-powered feature to detect stolen phones. The stakes for financial privacy and surveillance were highlighted by the Tornado Cash money laundering case, whose cofounder was sentenced to over five years in prison.
We’ve been spending some quality time with the iPad Pro M4 and new iPad Air, and while the former is certainly powerful, its price tag still has us feeling a bit hesitant. Joining us today is Engadget Deputy Editor Nathan Ingraham, who recently reviewed both devices and shares his thoughts on why he’s still sticking with the more affordable iPad Air. We also take some time to wrap up Google I/O 2024, where we got our hands on Project Astra and discuss Apple’s exciting new accessibility features, including eye tracking for iPhones and iPads. And as always, we’ve got a packed show with news from OpenAI, Intel, and more.
The article discusses the best tablets for various purposes, including gaming, productivity, and entertainment. The top-rated tablets include:
The OpenAI Startup Fund has secured a significant influx of capital, with a recent filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission revealing an additional $5 million investment. This fresh funding was facilitated by two investors who transferred their capital into a special purpose vehicle (SPV) associated with the fund. Notably, this marks the third time the OpenAI Startup Fund has raised an SPV, following previous efforts that netted $15 million and $10 million respectively. As of earlier this year, the fund boasted a gross net asset value of $325 million, with commitments totaling $175 million last year. The fund’s corporate venture capital unit has backed at least 16 startups to date, including notable names like Harvey, Ambiance Healthcare, and Figure AI. While OpenAI had not responded to TechCrunch’s request for comment as of publication time, the fund’s ongoing efforts to support early-stage AI companies remain an important aspect of its operations.
What a great list! I’m glad you asked me to summarize it for you.
In a few months, Microsoft will be launching its own mobile games store, allowing users to download and purchase games from across all devices and countries without being locked into a single ecosystem. The web-based store will feature a selection of titles, including popular ones like Candy Crush Saga and Call of Duty, as well as Microsoft’s own games, such as Minecraft. This move is seen as the first step in building a trusted app store with roots in gaming, with plans to open up to third-party publishers in the future. The company’s decision to launch a browser-based store rather than an app is aimed at making it accessible across all devices and countries. Microsoft’s new store will also offer discounts on add-ons and in-app purchases, giving users more flexibility when playing their favorite mobile games. This development comes as Apple and Google are forced to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which requires them to allow third-party app stores to operate on their platforms and offer alternative billing systems for purchases.
The cult classic “Evil” is back with its fourth season, and we’re going wild for its dark and twisted tale of demonic possession, faith, and the blurred lines between good and evil. Imagine The X-Files meets religious trauma, and you’ll get a sense of this show’s unique blend of psychological horror and supernatural thrills.
The UK government has issued an ultimatum to major tech companies, demanding they take immediate action to curb the spread of harmful content on their platforms or face significant financial penalties. According to new guidelines outlined by Ofcom, the country’s media regulator, search and social media giants must implement robust age-checks and rigorous content moderation to better protect children online. The rules aim to prevent minors from encountering explicit or disturbing material, including topics such as eating disorders, self-harm, and pornography. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to £18 million or 10 percent of a company’s global revenue, whichever is greater. Ofcom warns that companies who disregard the guidelines can expect “enforcement action” and notes that the proposed codes place the responsibility for keeping children safer squarely on the shoulders of tech firms.
Connections has taken the world by storm as the latest New York Times word game. The goal is simple: find the common threads between four words, but it gets increasingly challenging with each new set of words that resets after midnight. To help you overcome this hurdle, we’ve gathered some hints and tips to get you started.
The Biden administration is poised to invest a significant $285 million in initiatives aimed at advancing semiconductor manufacturing through the use of digital twins. These virtual models enable the simulation and optimization of physical systems, allowing for more efficient chip development and manufacturing processes. As part of the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, this funding will support research into digital twin technology, as well as industry demonstration projects, workforce training, and the establishment of a new CHIPS Manufacturing USA Institute. According to officials, digital twins have the potential to reduce costs and facilitate more collaborative chip design and development processes. The administration aims to increase domestic semiconductor manufacturing, which has declined from 40% to less than 10% globally over the years. Organizations including non-profits, universities, governments, and for-profit companies can apply for funding through an informational webinar on May 8.
Here’s a rewritten version of the original text, condensed into 5-7 sentences:
Get ready to dive into a bite-sized crossword experience with The Mini, a condensed version of The New York Times’ daily puzzle. With just a few clues to solve, this speedy challenge requires quick thinking and clever problem-solving skills. But don’t worry if you get stuck - we’ve got your back! If you’re feeling frustrated after stumbling upon a tricky clue, take a deep breath and refresh your brain with some fresh insights. This week’s Mini puzzle is filled with clever clues and answers that will keep you on your toes. From modern slang to pizza chain names, there’s something for everyone in this fun and engaging crossword puzzle. So grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and see if you can solve it before the clock runs out!
The tech world is abuzz with news from various fronts, and we’re here to break it all down. First up, congratulations are in order for Rubrik, whose successful IPO pricing and warm reception by the public markets prove that even non-venture-backed startups can achieve success. This development adds weight to the argument that the public markets are not as closed off to tech startups as some may have thought.
The Federal Trade Commission has voted to ban most non-compete agreements, a move that could be beneficial for startups. The ruling aims to prevent companies from blocking employees from joining competitors or launching their own businesses in the same industry. While this may seem like a blow to intellectual property protection, experts argue that there are alternative ways to safeguard sensitive information. Non-disclosure agreements and patent filings can serve as effective substitutes for non-compete clauses. Moreover, some startup founders believe that the ban could actually encourage companies to foster stronger cultures and attract top talent by offering competitive salaries and benefits rather than relying on restrictive contracts. As a result, the hiring pool may expand, allowing startups to recruit more experienced professionals with domain expertise. However, it’s unclear whether the ruling will withstand legal challenges, and some experts predict that courts could strike down the ban. Read more
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